Fundraiser has men minding the stoves to benefit Batavia organization

Ladies, does the sight of a man in an apron set your passion a-simmering?

How about 50 of them?

A fundraiser Saturday for Suicide Prevention Services will offer sample-sized tidbits from two score and 10 local men, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Lincoln Inn and Banquets, 1345 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia.

Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door. To buy a ticket, visit 50menwhocook.com or call (630) 482-9699.

Josh Jones, chef de cuisine of Spring restaurant in Chicago, is one of the cooks.

And then there are the amateurs _ state Rep. Tom Cross, Batavia Mayor Jeff Schielke, Naperville Mayor George Pradel and more.

"We are so excited about being there on Saturday," said Pradel, who is teaming up with former Naperville resident Dave Wassel, an SPS board member. They are going to serve steak Albert _ steak pounded with white pepper, then fried in butter and flambéed with brandy. Patrons will vote for their favorites in several categories.

Wassel and Pradel met in a weekly prayer group at the Central YMCA in Naperville. "He has a heart for serving people," Wassel said.

"I was really amazed at how people just jumped at the chance" to participate, said Nancy Patush, co-chairman of the event.

And even though it helps a serious cause, it should be a fun night, with music; a cash bar; and a raffle for a private dinner for six in your home, prepared by Jones; a Big Green Egg smoker/grill, valued at $1,200; and a one-year membership to the Delnor Hospital Health and Wellness Center. There is also a 50-50 raffle for cash and other prizes.

"No boring speeches," said Patush. "Just a celebration of life."

Suicide Prevention Services, based in Batavia, provides depression screening, early identification of people at risk of committing suicide and intervention services. It also offers a Survivors of Suicide group for people who have had a friend or relative who has committed suicide, and provides public education programs about suicide. It serves DuPage, Kane, Kendall and DeKalb counties.

"It's rush hour for Suicide Prevention Services. The demand is extreme," Wassel said. "These are extraordinary times."