Alexandria's Olympic Boys & Girls Club will host "An Evening with the Chef's" on Friday, January 19, at Belle Haven Country Club to celebrate the club's 70th Anniversary. All proceeds from the event will directly support Club education and leadership programs.
The event will feature prominent chefs from local restaurants showcasing their finest creations, according to David Woodbury, Club president, and Max Knoepfel, executive chef, Belle Haven Country Club. Each chef will prepare a signature dish during the evening's multi-course meal.
"I am excited to have the opportunity to work with this team of talented local chefs to benefit this wonderful organization," said Knoepfel. Featured chefs, in addition to Knoepfel, include Tracy O'Grady, Restaurant Willow; Bryan Moscatello, Indigo Landing; and Mel Meadows, Hollin Hall Pastry Shop. Local vendors and suppliers have agreed to donate most of the ingredients to support the event.
Two special friends of the Club will also be honored during the event by its Board of Directors. Mike Heisley, past Club member and owner of the NBA Memphis Grizzlies will be recognized for his longtime support of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Terry Lindsay, chairman, Lindsay Automotive Group and former Club Board member, will be honored for his service to Alexandria youth.
"This is a great opportunity to take part in a very exciting culinary event while honoring two exceptional individuals," said Woodbury.
"Our goal is to serve as many youth in Alexandria as we possibly can," said Jim Almond, senior branch director, Alexandria Olympic Boys & Girls Club.
Formed in 1936, Club members have played prominent roles throughout the Alexandria community and the nation, according to Almond. Located in its original building, 401 N. Payne St., the Club annually serves over 1,000 youth ages six to 18 in such activities as Character and Leadership Development, Education and Career, Arts, Health and Life Skills, and Sports, Fitness and Recreation for an annual membership fee of only $10 per child per year.
For information on reservations and sponsorship contact Tonya Rideout at 703-684-5570; Dave Woodbury at 703-867-5570; or email 70thAnniversaryDinner@cox.net.
<1b>—Chuck Hagee