Spring Forward Against Cancer 2015 attendees enjoying themselves at Sesnon House in Aptos
Cabrillo College culinary arts students used their talents to transport dinner guests to Morocco at the Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group’s Spring Forward Against Cancer gala earlier this month. The successful benefit, held at Sesnon House, raised thousands of dollars for cancer research via Santa Cruz Cancer Benefit Group (SCCBG).
To celebrate SCCBG’s 20th anniversary in a grand fashion, event organizers used the theme “A Night in Casablanca.” Attendees enjoyed an atmosphere modeled on “Rick’s Café Américain” which included live piano, first-rate food and wine prepared and served by Cabrillo students, and KSBW news anchor Dale Julian serving as emcee. There was a silent auction with prizes such as a trip to France, local handmade jewelry, and restaurant gift certificates.
If it’s not already on your calendars, make sure to save the date for September’s Gourmet Grazing on the Green: it’s Saturday, Sept. 19, 2015 at Aptos Village Park. The annual event hosted by SCCBG usually sells out a few days ahead of time. I’ll be sure to publish a preview/ reminder article as the food and wine celebration gets closer. It’s a wonderful event; last year there were more than 25 participating restaurants, farms, and food vendors plus a couple dozen wineries, breweries and distilleries. Attendees pay one admission price to benefit SCCBG and then receive complimentary food and drinks from the generous local chefs, winemakers, etc. who have donated their products.
Over the last two decades, SCCBG has distributed more than $1.5 million to directly support the Santa Cruz community. Proceeds from SCCBG’s events, including April’s Spring Forward gala and the upcoming Gourmet Grazing on the Green in September, benefit these local cancer support and research organizations:
- Hospice of Santa Cruz County
- Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Association
- Katz Cancer Resource Center
- UCSC Cancer Research
- Teen Kitchen Project
- WomenCARE Cancer Advocacy
On Twitter? Follow me @santacruzfoodie.