By Hannah Gerken
Derek Halling and Doug Hahn Serve up their cinna "man" buns at 50 Men Who Can Cook.
What do you get when you mix 50 men, a dash of costumes, a heaping of recipes, and a pound of fun? A recipe for a great night to support local education. On Feb. 2, the College Station ISD Education Foundation hosts its 11th Annual 50 Men Who Can Cook event.
This adult-oriented event is the signature fundraiser for the CSISD Education Foundation each year and provides support to a variety of programs in the district. From the police chief to faculty from each school, the cooks come from across the community. Though the event began in 2007 with only 50 cooks, they now host around 70 booths with a quarter of those being new cooks. This will be the first year that there will be a few slots open to public participation.
Each booth selects their own recipe and prepares 800 two-ounce samples. Their recipe then competes in the respective category: best entrée; side, salad, appetizer; dessert; and soups and chili. An additional award is given for the best of show. Not only do the booths create a delicious treat, but many also have a theme for the booth and dress up accordingly. In previous years, some themes have been KISS, Duck Dynasty, and Cinna Man Buns.
Though it is a competition, the importance of this fundraiser stems back to the programs it helps to support. “It’s not really about the contest,” says Teresa Benden, director of the CSISD Education Foundation. “It’s about gathering as a community to support our public schools and to have a fun evening.”
Money raised goes to providing innovative teaching grants, helping to encourage teachers to bring innovation and leading-technology into the classrooms. Funds also provide scholarships to students; support Success 24/7; fund The Amy Anderson Literacy Legacy; and support Chrissy’s Closet.
Tickets for this event can be purchased online at www.givetokids.csisd.org. The $60 all-inclusive ticket provides you with all of the tasting you can stand and adult beverages
