Close to 400 people came out for the ACS Bowls of Hope Soup-Tasting Benefit on February 4 and enjoyed sampling a variety of hot, delicious soups and then voting for their top pick. Sal’s Cafe in Somers Point won both the people’s choice “Golden Spoon Award” and the Chef’s Pick “Souper Soup Award.” Their New England Clam Chowder chowder took first place out of soups prepared and donated by 14 area restaurants and the Academy of Culinary Arts. Placing second for the “Golden Spoon Award” were Gregory’s Bar and Restaurant in Somers Point with its She Crab Bisque and El Coyote II in Galloway took second in the Chef’s “Souper Soup Award” with its Fiesta Clam Chowder.
We were thrilled to see so so many families and friends come out to support Atlantic Christian, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Dozens of ACS students worked alongside parents and staff, assisting as soup servers, working on set-up and clean-up, and performing on stage. Also providing live music during the evening were the Thirsty Soul Band and ACS staff member Kelly Flynn.
We gratefully acknowledge all the participants, sponsors, and promoters who helped make Bowls of Hope a success: the Academy of Culinary Arts; the ACS High School Worship Band; 7th grader Elizabeth Alford; Barrels; Brick House Pub and Grille; 5th grader Hannah Campbell; Carluccio’s Coal-fired Pizza; Celina’s Cafe; Scott Cronick of The Press of Atlantic City and host of the radio show “Off the Press with Scott Cronick”; El Coyote Southwest Grill; El Coyote II; ACS staff member Kelly Flynn; Formica Brothers Bakery; Greate Bay Country Club; Gregory’s Bar & Restaurant; Island Shore Chinese Restaurant; 5th grader Evangelina Kim; ACS faculty member Lee Martin; Dakota Mason, ACS worship team leader; Chef Joseph Massaglia, owner of Mama Mia’s Ristorante in Seaville and host of the weekly Saturday morning radio show Joe’s Table for Two on WOND 1400 AM; 5th grader Alicia O’Donnell; Ruth’s Chris Steak House; Sadia’s Tea and Coffee; Sal’s Cafe; Sofia Margate; Steve & Cookies By the Bay; sponsor Sturdy Savings Bank; and Towne and Country Cafe.