50 men cooking will benefit Batavia's suicide prevention service
Joe Contafio isn't worried. He's banking on his Italian heritage to bring home the trophy this weekend for his mostaccioli.
"My mother was from northern Italy where they do a milder sauce, and my father was from the southern part where they add a lot of oregano and other spices," said Contafio. "I grew up with my mom having the sauce simmer on the stove and my dad would go by and throw in spices every now and then when she wasn't looking."
Contafio is just one of 50 men who will cook this Saturday night, March 21 at Lincoln Inn in Batavia. The event benefits Suicide Prevention Services of Batavia. Joe Contafio will be cooking on behalf of those servicemen who have lost their lives to suicide.
"War is a horrific experience to go through," he said. "About 100 veterans lose their lives to suicide each month."
Joe has a some pretty prestigious company to contend within this event. There will be mayors, a state representative, a couple of gourmet cooks an actor a vicar. There also are top chefs from the ranks of policemen and firemen among the 50. Josh Jones of Spring restaurant will be competing. Even the Lincoln's chef, George Bozonelos, will be creating a sumptuous pork dish.
"I'm only worried about the firemen," said Contafio. "I've eaten in a lot of firehouses over he years and I've never had a bad meal in one."
After September 11, Contafio and his band 101st Rock Division toured the country on behalf of Engine Co. 55. The band also travels to veterans and hospitals and to Iraq to entertain.
The 50 Men Who Cook event promises to be a fun night. Tickets are $50.00 per person but that includes the sampling of the food the entertainment and the opportunity to support a very important organization.
"The cost of the ticket is tax deductible," said event Chair, Nancy Patush. "We're so appreciative for the men who have volunteered to cook for us. Suicide Prevention Services provides such a valuable resource for the community."
SPS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing and eliminating suicide attempts through education, advocacy and collaboration. They offer depression screening and support for those who are struggling and those who have lost someone to suicide.
Nancy Patush, who is working tirelessly on this event, lost her son, Joe, at the young age of 20. She is involved in tribute to her son.
In addition to the food there will be a cash bar available and the opportunity to bid on raffle prizes.
"We have a number of prizes," said Patush. "The Big Green Egg has donated a smoker grill worth $1,000 and Delnor has donated a membership at the health and Wellness Center.
"Josh Jones, of Spring restaurant in Chicago is offering to cook a gourmet meal for six in a the winner's home."
The 50 Men Who Cook event will also give the community the opportunity to see the newly renovated Lincoln Inn Banquets. The popular facility has been transformed into a grand banquet hall with marble floors and a beautiful open foyer.
"Many people who are familiar with the old Lincoln walk in and say that they don't recognize the place," said owner, Gus Ramios.
Joe Contafio is excited to be a part of the event and is coming ready to compete.
"My mother has tasted my sauce and she thinks it's the best sauce she has ever tasted," he said.
Mama mia, let your taste buds dance on Saturday night.
<p class="News"><b>What:</b> Fundraiser to benefit Suicide Prevention Services, featuring culinary creations from 50 male chefs</p> <p class="News"><b>When:</b> 6 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, March 21</p> <p class="News"><b>Where:</b> Lincoln Inn Banquets, 1345 S. Batavia Avenue, Batavia</p> <p class="News"><b>Tickets:</b> $50 in advance; $60 at the door</p> <p class="News"><b>Call:</b> (630) 482-9699 for tickets</p>