Post Tagged with: "Atlantic City Rescue Mission"

ACS Presents Rescue Mission With $1,517 from Bowls of Hope Benefit; Williams’ 5th Grade Class Wins Bowls of Hope Contest

ACS presented the Atlantic City Rescue Mission with a check for $1,517 on March 9 from the proceeds of the February 4 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off to help fund the Mission’s important work meeting the needs of the homeless in Atlantic City and surrounding communities. Accepting the check on behalf of the Rescue Mission were Pastor Bill Warner, Vice President of Biblical Education and Policy, and Sara Franklin, Chair of the Mission’s Board of Trustees.

The high school students who helped present the check are members of the Student Council who volunteered at the Bowls of Hope fundraiser. Also participating in the check presentation were Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen, Upper School Principal Meg McHale, and Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz. The Student Council members pictured in the photo are: Isabell Alford, Sophia Costello, Rebecca DiMaio, Zachary Fosbenner, Noah Gibbs, Caden Kim, Evangelina Kim, Autumn Loo, Alli Lushina, Ryleigh Martin, David O’Donnell, Haven Sanchez, Allison Schlundt, Nathan Stein, and Noelle Thompson.

Ms. Williams’ 5th grade class won the Bowls of Hope Classroom Fundraising Contest.

In a separate presentation, Ms. Amy Williams’ 5th grade class was recognized for winning first place in the Bowls of Hope classroom fundraising contest, raising the most funds from ticket sales and sponsorships. The class received a pizza party as its prize.

Thank you to our students, school families, faculty and staff, and friends in the community for helping make our Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off a success.

Tickets and Sponsorships on Sale for our Feb. 4 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off

Our 2023 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off is just two weeks away on Saturday, February 4 and ACS parents, families, and friends are invited to attend this enjoyable evening of good food and fellowship that will benefit the school and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission. Now in its 10th year, the Bowls of Hope will feature some 20 restaurants and chefs serving up their signature soups. The Cook-Off will be held from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the school gym and  ACS students will also entertain the crowd with a Talent Show.

Some of the restaurants and chefs already signed up for the Cook-Off are: Atlantic City Rescue Mission Kitchen,  Carluccio’s, Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar, Jing Sushi House, La Tia Peruvian Cuisine, Maharaja Indian Restaurant, Root Cellar Tavern, Sal’s Cafe, Sofia Restaurant, Stir It Up Catering, The Cheese Board, Towne & Country Cafe, and Windjammer Cafe. Several of these restaurants and chefs have won past Bowls of Hope People’s Choice and Super Soup Chef’s Choice Awards. Chef Joseph Massaglia, host of Joe’s Table for Two radio show and owner of Mama Mia’s Ristorante Bin Marmora, will be attending the event to serve as our celebrity soup judge.

Several businesses are already on board as Sponsors — 3’R Premium Cleaning Service; Clayton’s Self Storage; Fortress Financial; HS Restoration & Cleaning Service; ServPro of Egg Harbor/Ventnor City and Texas Roadhouse. Two of our sponsors — B.F. Mazzeo Fruit & Produce and Chick-fil-A Fire Road — are also entering soups for the first time in the Cook-Off. Additional sponsors are welcome for a donation of $400 and the deadline to sign up is Wednesday, January 25.  Sponsors will receive 4 complimentary adult tickets to the Bowls of Hope and a variety of advertising benefits.

Everyone attending the Bowls of Hope is also being asked to bring in a can of soup or other non-perishable to donate to the Community FoodBank of NJ, Southern Branch. It’s all about giving back to our community!

The prices of the Bowls of Hope tickets, which are considered a charitable, tax-deductible gift, are: Adults-$20; Students-$10; Children (6-10)-$5; Children 5 and under are free. Rolls donated by the Formica Freitag Bakery, beverage, and dessert are included in the ticket price. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at — acseht.org/bowlsofhope.

CLICK HERE to sign up online to be a sponsor or to purchase tickets.

 

Classroom Spotlight: 2nd Grade Class Fills Backpacks to Bless Area Homeless

Students in Mrs. Brossman’s 2nd grade class collected and filled backpacks to bless homeless people in Atlantic City in December, supporting a larger project led by Calvary Chapel of Hammonton, who handed out the backpacks to the homeless on the streets of Atlantic City on December 17.

In all, the class donated 13 backpacks that were filled a variety of items, including blankets, gloves, hats, hygiene items, Bibles, and Dunkin or Wawa gift cards.

“This is the second year that my class has participated in this community service project and I think it’s a wonderful way for our students and their families to get involved in helping and serving those in need in our own community,” Brossman said. The collecting began on November 30 and ended on December 14.

Brossman put a display of the backpacks in the hallway outside her classroom to promote the project with the rest of the student body.

Throughout each school year, students from preschool to the 12th grade participate in a variety of community service projects to bless area veterans, seniors living in nursing homes, mail carriers, the homeless, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, and other charities, ministries, and non-profits.

New Middle School Servant’s Heart Club Makes Sandwiches, Brownies to Bless Homeless Adults, Teens in Atlantic City

Serving others and showing the love of Jesus through acts of kindness is the motto of a new Middle School Servant’s Heart Club that this month has made some 50 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, baked brownies for teens at the Covenant House in Atlantic City, and created hand-made cards for gift bags for Angels in Motion. The club is one of 12 middle school clubs that are now meeting weekly during 8th period, a new time slot created this year for middle school and high school clubs to meet.

Other middle school clubs include crafts, chess, STEM, Bible and basketball, and National Junior Honor Society. There are also some 12 high school clubs that meet on Thursdays, including Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Missions, Hispanic Heritage, Student Ambassadors, National Honor Society, and several Bible studies. All the clubs are led by ACS faculty and staff.

“We wanted to set aside time during the school day for our students to get involved in groups focused on ministry, leadership, and service by being part of one or more clubs,” said Upper School Principal Meg McHale. “We’re excited to see the impact that these clubs will be having within our school and in our community.”

Faculty member Linda Stiteler, who is the Middle School Servant’s Heart Club advisor, said she and the 12 students in her club have put together an ambitious list of service projects for this school year. Some of the upcoming projects include collecting scarves, gloves, and socks for the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, filling shoe boxes with children’s Christmas gifts for Samaritan’s Purse, and picking up trash at the Nature Reserve in Egg Harbor Township.

The members of the club are: Ashlee Alford, Annalena DiMaio, Natalia Flores, Mackenzie Flynn, Ava Lombardi, Ja’Niyah Martin, Josh Maxwell, Julia Morris, Nina Purdy, Chelsie Richards, Cyrus Seyf, and Haley Schnecker.

ACS Presents Rescue Mission With $1,732 from Bowls of Hope Benefit; Mrs. Wroniuk’s 4th Graders Win Bowls of Hope Contest

ACS high school students presented the Atlantic City Rescue Mission with a check for $1,732 on March 16 to help fund the Mission’s important work meeting the needs of the homeless in Atlantic City and surrounding communities. The donation came from the proceeds of the school’s February 5 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit. In a separate presentation, Mrs. Wroniuk’s 4th grade class was recognized on March 3 for winning first place in the Bowls of Hope classroom fundraising contest, raising $468 from ticket sales, sponsorships, and sales of the Super Soup Coupon Cards.

At the check presentation for the Rescue Mission, Dara Brown Heston, store manager of the Mission’s Charity Thrift Store in Northfield, accepted the check and thanked the students and the school for their efforts. The students who who participated were from the Student Council and the National Honor Society, and had volunteered at the Bowls of Hope fundraiser and helped sell tickets to the event. Also participating in the check presentation were Upper School Principal Meg McHale and Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz.

After the check presentation, Heston, who is a 2011 ACS alumnus, and two associates from the Mission’s Thrift Store led the students in a mini-workshop on how to transform a T-shirt into a shopping bag, a process she described as “upcyling.” She noted that on May 4 businesses in New Jersey will be prohibited from providing customers with plastic bags, so making a washable, cotton bag made out of a T-shirt, is one good alternative to the plastic bags.

“There are so many ways to help the homeless in our community and one way is to make shopping bags out of the T-shirts that you aren’t wearing and donate them to our thrift store to sell to our customers,” Heston said. “Now that you know how to make these bags you can organize a bag-making event and donate the bags to the Thrift Store.” Each of the students made their own shopping bag and a number of them donated their bags to Heston for the Charity Center.

Sal’s Cafe, La Tia Peruvian Cuisine Win Top Awards at 2022 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit

Our 2022 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off was a super success! Congratulations to Sal’s Cafe in Somers Point for winning the “People’s Choice Golden Spoon Award” with their New England Clam Chowder. Some 400 people filled our gym to taste these and other delicious signature soups from area restaurants and then voted for their favorite soup. Congratulations also to La Tia Peruvian Cuisine in Linwood for winning the “Chef’s Super Soup Award” with their Peruvian Chicken Soup.

Professional chefs David Goldstein and Peter Guzzo served as our judges this year to select the recipient of the “Chef’s Super Soup Award.” Pictured with the chefs are, from left, Amaya Perez and co-owner Maria Uceda of La Tia Peruvian Cuisine. Coming in tied for 2nd place for the Chef’s Award were Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar in Somers Point, with a Shrimp and Crab Bisque, and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission Kitchen, with a Broccoli and Cheddar Soup. Congratulations to 2011 ACS alumnus Dara Heston, who headed up the Mission’s culinary team.

For the Golden Spoon Award, pictured at top in the center are David Rossi and owner Blair Pira of Sal’s Cafe, with (from left) Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen, Upper School Principal Meg McHale, and Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz.  Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar in Somers Point placed 2nd, and Stir It Up Catering in Northfield placed 3rd with their Chicken Pot Pie Soup.

All funds raised from this community-building event, now in its 9th year, are benefiting the Atlantic City Rescue Mission and Atlantic Christian School.

Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket, donated to be an Event Sponsor, or brought cans of soup and other non-perishable items for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Southern Branch. The Bowls of Hope showcased eleven restaurants in and around Atlantic County serving up their specialty soups. Our high school students were among over 50 student and staff volunteers who helped serve the soups and worked behind the scenes in the kitchen, with set up and clean up, selling tickets, and more.

Thank you also to our generous sponsors who helped make this benefit fundraiser a success — American Church Group of New Jersey; B.F. Mazzeo Fruit and Produce; Chick-fil-A Fire Road; Elder Pest Control; Formica Bros. Bakery; Fortress Financial; HS Restoration and Cleaning Service; Klingert Family Chiropractic Center; Olympic Physical Therapy; and Texas Roadhouse, Egg Harbor Township.

We are also grateful to Chester’s Bakery and a number of parents who donated desserts, and to Greate Bay Country Club for  providing high top tables for our guests. Thank you also to Chef Joe Massaglia of the “Joe’s Table for Two” WOND Radio program, to Rick Brancadora of Wibbage Radio, and Press of Atlantic City editor Scott Cronick for helping promote the event, and to photographer and ACS grandparent Gail Crafton of AC Photo for donating her services.

 

 

Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Just One Week Away on Saturday, Feb. 5; Buy Your Tickets Online or at the Door

Our 2022 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit is just one week away — on Saturday, February 5, 2022 — from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the school gym. An exciting line-up of restaurants and chefs are competing in the cook-off and ACS students will be entertaining the crowd with a lively Student Talent Show. All proceeds will benefit Atlantic Christian and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission.

Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at: acseht.org/bowlsofhope/tickets. Tickets prices are $20 for adults, $10 for students, and $5 for children aged 6-10 year old. Children five and under are free.  ACS is also selling $20 Super Soup Coupon Cards that can be used from February to May to enjoy a free serving of soup with a minimum purchase from the outstanding restaurants participating in our Cook-Off. The Coupon Cards can be purchased online or at the Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off.

For one ticket price, attendees at the Cook-Off can sample signature soups and vote for their favorite. The top vote-getter will be presented with the “Golden Spoon People’s Choice Award” during the evening. Some of the restaurants and chefs competing in the Cook-Off will include: the Atlantic City Rescue Mission Kitchen, Bahay Kubo, Carluccio’s, The Cheese Board, Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar, Maurizio’s Express EHT, Sana & Sadia’s Mediterranean Cafe, Sal’s Cafe, Sofia’s of Margate, Stir It Up, and Windjammer.  The ticket price also includes crusty rolls donated by Formica Brothers Bakery, beverages, and desserts.

ACS Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz will be promoting the Bowls of Hope on the morning of February 5 as a guest on “Joe’s Table for Two” radio show on WOND 1400 AM, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. The show’s host, Chef Joseph Massaglia, will once again be our celebrity soup judge at the Bowls of Hope and will select his favorite to receive the “Chef’s Super Soup Award.”  Also appearing as a guest on the show will be Chef Donny of Sal’s Cafe, a past Golden Spoon People’s Choice Award Winner who will be entering a soup in the Bowls of Hope  Soup Cook-Off.

We also appreciate and thank our nine generous Bowls of Hope Sponsors who are helping us reach our goal of raising $10,000 from this fundraiser.  Our Bowls of Hope sponsors are: the American Church Group of NJ; B.F. Mazzeo Fruit & Produce; Chick-fil-A Fire Road; Elder Pest Control; Fortress Financial; HS Restoration and Cleaning Service; Klingert Family Chiropractic Center; Olympic Physical Therapy; and Texas Roadhouse EHT.  In the final 15 days leading up to the Cook-Off, each of our sponsors is being featured on the ACS Facebook and Instagram pages as a special way to say thank-you for supporting ACS and Christian education.

Everyone attending the Bowls of Hope is also being asked to bring a can of soup or other non-perishable for the final day of our Bowls of Hope Food Drive to benefit the Community FoodBank of NJ, Southern Branch.

ACS to Hold In-Person Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off on Saturday, Feb. 5; Tickets & Sponsorships Now on Sale

ACS parents, families, and friends are invited to attend our 9th ACS Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit to be held as an in-person event on Saturday, February 5, 2022 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the school gym. Some 20 restaurants and chefs are expected to serve up their signature soups. Come out for an enjoyable evening of good food and fellowship. All proceeds will benefit Atlantic Christian and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission.  ACS students will also entertain the crowd with a Talent Show.

In addition to selling tickets to the Cook-Off, ACS is also selling Super Soup Coupon Cards for $20 each in January and February. With the Coupon Card, you can receive a free soup, with a minimum purchase, for take-out or eat-in orders at up to 15 local restaurants from February 1 to May 31, 2022.

Some of the restaurants already signed up for the Cook-Off are: Carluccio’s, La Cucina Ristorante, Maurizio’s Express EHT, Sal’s Cafe, Sofia Restaurant, and Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar, which has won several past Bowls of Hope People’s Choice and Super Soup Chef’s Choice Awards. Chef Joseph Massaglia, host of Joe’s Table for Two radio show and owner of Mama Mia’s Ristorante Bin Marmora, will be attending the event to serve as our celebrity soup judge.

Several businesses are already on board as Sponsors — B.F. Mazzeo Fruit & Produce; Elder Pest Control; Fortress Financial; HS Restoration & Cleaning Service; Olympic Physical Therapy, and Texas Roadhouse. Additional sponsors are welcome for a donation of $400 and sponsors will receive 4 complimentary adult tickets to the Bowls of Hope and a variety of advertising benefits. Rolls, beverages, and delicious home-made desserts will also be provided.

Everyone attending the Bowls of Hope is also being asked to bring in a can of soup or other non-perishable to donate to the Community FoodBank of NJ, Southern Branch. It’s all about giving back to our community!

The prices of the Bowls of Hope tickets, which are considered a charitable, tax-deductible gift, are: Adults-$20; Students-$10; Children (6-10)-$5; Children 5 and under are free. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased in the ACS school office or online at — acseht.org/bowlsofhope/tickets. Tickets and Super Soup Coupon Cards will also be sold at the door that night.

ACS Announces Bowls of Hope Student Video Contest Winners

The top three winners of the 2nd annual Bowls of Hope Student Video Contest were recognized and awarded gift cards during Chapel on Wednesday, March 10. The students who submitted the winning entries are, from left — 12th grader Haoshen (Katherine) Kong, 1st place; 4th grader Gaebriel Hahn-Chaney, 3rd place and 6th grader Caedyn Hahn-Chaney, 2nd place.  The first place  video was shown to the students during chapel and will be posted on the ACS Facebook page in the coming weeks.

Sales of Super Soup Coupon Cards will end on March 31.  The proceeds of the Bowls of Hope will benefit ACS and Community FoodBank of NJ, Southern Branch. 

CLICK HERE to view the 1st place Bowls of Hope video by Katherine Kong and Leo Li.

CLICK HERE to view the 2nd place Bowls of Hope video by Caedyn Hahn- Chaney.

CLICK HERE to view the 3rd place Bowls of Hope video by Gaebriel Hahn-Chaney.

CLICK HERE to purchase a Bowls of Hope Super Soup Restaurant Coupon Card using our online order form.

Giving Tree Christmas Service Project Raises Over $4,500 for Charitable Organizations Serving Locally, Abroad

Miss Williams’ 2nd grade class raised the most funds overall and among other elementary classes for their charity — the Atlantic City Rescue Mission.

Our “Giving Tree” Christmas service project and contest concluded on December 21 and generous gifts from family members and friends helped raise over $4,500 to be distributed to charities serving in our local community and around the world.

Twenty-four classes from kindergarten to the 12th grade participated in the project, each decorating a Christmas tree in their classroom with a theme reflecting the charity that the students chose to support and seeking donations to support their charity.

Congratulations to the students in Miss Williams’ 2nd grade class for raising the most overall for their charity, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, and also winning the Elementary Division, raising $617.50. The students in Mrs. Coates’ 6th grade class won the Middle School/High School division, raising $422.50 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Mrs. Coates’ 6th grade class raised the most funds among Middle School/High School classes and supported the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Two other classes won first place for the best creativity in decorating their tree to reflect their chosen charity. Mrs. McCarthy’s 3rd grade class won in the Elementary Division, with a tree decorated for their charity — the Scullville Volunteer Fire Department, and Mrs. Flath’s 11th grade class won first place in the Middle School/High School division, with a tree decorated for their charity — the Humane Society of Atlantic County. Each of the winning classes will receive either a free pizza party or an ice cream party in January.

“We are thrilled with the way our students and our school families responded to this new service project and got involved in helping raise funds to give back to many worthy organizations who are serving in our community and abroad,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen.

The charities who were supported in the Giving Tree Project were: the Alex’s Lemonade Stand; the American Red Cross; the Atlantic City Rescue Mission; the Cape May Zoo; Camp Haluwasa; the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, Southern Branch; Compassion International; the Fellowship of Christian Athletes; the Funny Farm; the Hope Pregnancy Center; the Humane Society of Atlantic County; If Not for Grace Ministries; the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation; the Northfield Dyslexia Center; Rio Missions; the Ronald McDonald House; Samaritan’s Purse; the Scullville Volunteer Fire Department; St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital; Toys for Tots; Wounded Warriors; and 4Ocean. All donations received are being given to the designated charities.

Alumni Spotlight: ACS Alumni Making Their Mark in College and Beyond

ACS is pleased to recognize and congratulate several of its alumni who are making their mark in college, in the working world, and in other endeavors, building on the strong educational and spiritual foundation they received during their years at ACS.  The alumni spotlighted here are Karen Kizer Woerner (’86), Tommy Tillis (’10), Dara Brown Heston (’11), Rachel Picking Tillis (’11), Hannah Schalles (’13),  Paul Jones (’15), Sam Karabashian (’15), Lydia Dice (’16), and Dakota (DJ) Hitchner (’17).  Profiles of these and many more ACS alumni can be found on the “Alumni News” page of the ACS website under the “News and Events” category.

Karen Kizer Woerner (’86) earned her BS in elementary education from Liberty University and wanted to return to her hometown to teach. She spent 15 years as an elementary teacher in Pleasantville, mostly as a 4th grade teacher.. During those years, she was named Teacher of the Year twice at the Leeds Avenue School and was nominated and chosen twice for the Who’s Who of American Teachers. Karen became a stay-at-home mom in 2005 and has been homeschooling her children, Kirsten and Andrew. This fall, Karen stepped back into the classroom part-time and is teaching 4th and 5th grade at Westminster Christian Academy.

Tommy Tillis (’10) joined the U.S. Navy after high school and served as a Navy rescue swimmer for six years, with three tours of duty to Bahrain. He is married to another ACS alumnus, Rachel Picking (’11), and they have two children, Ellie, and Cooper. While Tommy was serving in the Navy, the family lived in Norfolk, VA, but they returned to South Jersey in 2018.  Tommy is now a firefighter in Ocean City, his life-long dream job, and Rachel is a stay-at-home mom. Rachel, who was valedictorian of the Class of 2010, attended Liberty University where she earned a BS in business administration.

Dara Brown Heston (’11), who has overseen the kitchen at the Atlantic City Rescue Mission for the past six years, recently became a Certified Medical Assistant and is working at a plasma clinic in Atlantic City.

Hannah Schalles (’13) graduated in May 2020 from Cedarville University with a Doctor of Pharmacy and is now doing her pharmacy residence at Nemours/Alfred I duPont Hospital for Children in Wilmington, Delaware. She plans to pursue a career as a clinical pharmacist.

Paul Jones (’15) has relocated to Florida with his wife, Hunter, and daughter, Selah, to take a faculty position at Trinity Christian Academy in Lake Worth. Paul is teaching middle school Bible and history. He will also be an assistant coach on the Varsity Boys’ basketball team, a position Paul held at ACS for the past several years.

 

Sam Karabashian (’15) has been living and working in the nation’s capital since graduating in 2019 from Biola University with a degree in business analytics. He worked last year in the Capitol Hill office of Congressman Mark Green of Tennessee and recently took a position with DeLoitte, a global firm that provides audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services.

Lydia Dice (’16) graduated with honors in September 2020 from Lancaster Bible College with degrees in Bible and middle level education in science and math. She has moved to South Carolina to work for a gap year with One Life at South Wesleyan University while she pursues her Masters in higher education through Geneva University.

 

 

Dakota (DJ) Hitchner (’17) is in her junior year at Cairn University pursuing a degree in health and physical education. She has distinguished herself as a scholar and athlete, making the dean’s list every semester while playing on the Women’s Soccer Team and the Women’s Basketball team. She has made all-conference in both sports every year, has been captain of the Women’s Basketball team, and was named to the All-Sportsmanship Team of the Colonial States Athletic Conference.  In September 2020, DJ was recognized for her athletic talents and leadership by being one of 10 players named to Cairn’s 2010-2020 All-Decade Women’s Basketball team. She is also student president of the athletic department and is responsible for planning student events on campus.

 

 

Gregory’s Restaurant Wins Golden Spoon Award at 2020 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit

Over 450 people came out on Saturday, February 1 to sample a variety of delicious soups and choose their favorite at our 7th annual Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off. Congratulations to Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar in Somers Point for taking first place in the People’s Choice Golden Spoon Award for the second year in a row, serving up a shrimp and crab roasted corn chowder. The Gregory’s family is also part of the ACS family and everyone gathered on stage to receive their award.

Sal’s Coal-Fired Pizza in Somers Point took 2nd place for the second year in a row, serving a tortellini soup. The Atlantic City Rescue Mission Kitchen finished in 3rd place with its broccoli and cheddar soup, the first time the Rescue Mission has placed in the contest. Congratulations to 2011 ACS alumnus Dara Heston, who headed up the Mission’s culinary team.

Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket, donated to be an Event Sponsor, or brought cans of soup and other non-perishable items for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. The Bowls of Hope showcased some of the best restaurants in and around Atlantic County serving up their specialty soups. Our high school students had the great experience of helping serve some of the soups and working behind the scenes with set-up, clean-up, selling tickets, and more.

Thirty-five elementary and middle school students presented 16 entertaining acts throughout the evening, showcasing their God-given talents and abilities. Students sang, danced, played the violin, and even performed while riding hover boards. Faculty member Amy Parker and senior Ashleigh Martin served as the Talent Show emcees.

We would like to thank and recognize the 20 chefs and restaurants who donated soup and helped make our event a success. Please join us in thanking them by patronizing these establishments. Our 20 participating restaurants and chefs were: Academy of Culinary Arts; Atlantic City Rescue Mission Kitchen; Bahay Kubo; Barrels; Bonterra Market; Carluccio’s; Charlie’s Bar & Restaurant; Eat Clean Organization; Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar; La Cucina Ristorante; Maurizio’s Pizzeria; Romanelli’s On the Greene; Sal’s Coal Fired Pizza; Sofia Restaurant; Steve and Cookies Restaurant; Tacocat; Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall; The Cheese Board; The Local’s Spot; and Whisk Bakery and Cafe.

We would also like to thank and recognize our generous Bowls of Hope Sponsors: American Church Group of NJ; B.F. Mazzeo Fruits and Produce; Clayton’s Self Storage; Edward Jones Investments, Jason Kiefer, Financial Advisor; Formica Brothers Bakery; H.S. Restoration and Cleaning Service; Klingert Family Chiropractic; Olympic Physical Therapy; and SERVPRO of Egg Harbor/Ventnor City.

CLICK HERE to read more exciting details and see photos of our Bowls of Hope as reported in the Press of Atlantic City’s February 1 article. Hope to see everyone back again next year!

ACS Announces Bowls of Hope Student Video Contest Winners

The top three winners of the 1st annual Bowls of Hope Student Video Contest were recognized and awarded gift cards during our MS/HS Chapel on Friday, January 31. The students who submitted the winning entries are, from left — 11th grader Haoshen (Katherine) Kong, 2nd place; 12th grader Mark Rosie, 1st place; and 6th grader Paityn Kates, 3rd place.

The winners were introduced by Upper School Principal Meg McHale and their videos promoting the Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off were shown to the students, who applauded and cheered for each video and the students who created them.

To meet the video contest guidelines, each video encouraged people to attend the Cook-Off because it is an event focused on giving back to the community and helping those in need. The proceeds of the Bowls of Hope will go to ACS and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission. The videos also encouraged those who attend to bring canned goods or other non-perishables to donate to the Bowls of Hope Food Drive to benefit the Community FoodBank of NJ, Southern Branch.

The student videos are being posted on Atlantic Christian School’s social media sites on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter and will also be shown during the Bowls of Hope on Saturday night.

CLICK HERE to view the 1st place Bowls of Hope video by Mark Rosie.

CLICK HERE to view the 2nd place Bowls of Hope video by Katherine Kong.

CLICK HERE to view the 3rd place Bowls of Hope video by Paityn Kates.

Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off One Day Away, Evening Includes Student Talent Show

Our popular Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off is just one day away — on Saturday, February 1 — from 6-8 p.m. in the school gym. Come out and sample delicious signature soups and be entertained by 34 of our elementary and middle school students as they sing, dance, and play instruments in our Talent Show. ACS high school students will also be volunteering at the event, serving up soup and greeting families and friends.

We are grateful to the 20 restaurants and chefs donating soup and to our 9 Bowls of Hope Sponsors — American Church Group of NJ; B.F. Mazzeo Fruits & Produce; Clayton’s Self Storage; Edward Jones Investments, Jason Kiefer Financial Advisor; Formica Bros. Bakery; H.S. Restoration & Cleaning Service; Klingert Family Chiropractic; Olympic Physical Therapy; and SERVPRO of Egg Harbor/Ventnor City. All proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales, and donations will benefit the school’s educational programs and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission.

Don’t forget to bring a can of soup or other nonperishable with you to donate to our canned drive that will benefit the Community Food Bank of NJ, Southern Branch.  Join us for a fun evening of good food and fellowship and help support our school and two great community organizations!

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets online on the ACS website. Online ticket sales will close at noon on Saturday. Tickets will be available for purchase at the door. Ticket prices are: $20 for Adults, $10 for Students, and $5 for Children 6-10 years of age. Children 5 and under are free.

Servant’s Heart Club Makes Sandwiches for Atlantic City Rescue Mission

Elementary students in our Servant’s Heart Club made some 50 peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches at its January meeting for the Atlantic City Rescue Mission to distribute to the homeless in our community.

The 2nd-5th grade students made the sandwiches during their monthly after-school meeting on January 7 and the sandwiches were delivered to the mission this week by Club Advisor and school parent Jennifer DiMaio. The students also colored Bible verses with an encouraging message on flyers that were attached to the sandwich bags.

Mrs. DiMaio said the club’s February project will be to create Valentine’s Day care packages for children in the Ronald McDonald House. Twenty-one students participate in the after-school club and additional students are welcome to join at any time.

13 Restaurants, Chefs and 8 Sponsors Supporting Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off

Thirteen restaurants and chefs are now on board to participate in our Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off on Saturday, February 1 and more are signing up every day. Eight area businesses are also supporting the event as sponsors. Buy your tickets now to attend this enjoyable family event that will benefit ACS, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. You can purchase tickets and sponsorships online at acseht.org or in the school office. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

To date, the participating restaurants and chefs include — the Academy of Culinary Arts (student chef team), Atlantic City Rescue Mission, Eat Clean Organization, Gregory’s Restaurant and Bar (last year’s People’s Choice “Golden Spoon Award” winner), La Cucina Ristorante, Romanelli’s Garden Cafe, Sal’s Cafe, Sofia Restaurant, Steve & Cookie’s, Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, and Whisk Bakery & Cafe. We are also excited to be welcoming several new participants — Maurizio’s Pizzeria in Mays Landing (opening soon in Egg Harbor Township) and The Local’s Spot in Somers Point.

To date, our eight Event Sponsors are — American Church Group of NJ; B.F. Mazzeo Fruit & Produce; Clayton’s Self Storage; Edward Jones Investments, Jason Kiefer Financial Advisor; HS Restoration & Cleaning Service; Klingert Chiropractic Wellness, Olympic Physical Therapy, and SERVPRO of Egg Harbor/Ventnor City, Additional sponsors are welcome for a donation of $400 and sponsors receive 4 complimentary tickets to the Bowls of Hope. The sponsor deadline is Friday, January 24.

For one ticket price, attendees will enjoy tasting a variety of hot, delicious soups and voting for their favorite to receive the “People’s Choice Golden Spoon Award.” Bread, beverages, and desserts will also be provided.

The evening will also include a student Talent Show and a Silent Auction featuring themed gift baskets like “Football Party,” “Baker’s Delight,” and “Family Game Night,” and “Ice Cream Social” donated by our PreK4-8th grade classes. Parents, please note that the collection deadline for all Silent Auction baskets is Friday, January 24.

The prices of the Bowls of Hope tickets, which are considered a charitable, tax-deductible gift, are: Adults-$20; Students-$10; Children (6-10)-$5; Children under 5-Free. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased online, in the ACS school office. Tickets will also be sold at the door that night.

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets and sponsorships.

School-Wide Food Drive to Kick Off Jan. 13; Ends at Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off

A school-wide Bowls of Hope Food Drive will kick-off on Monday, January 13 to benefit the Community Food Bank of NJ, Southern Branch. Paper bags donated by the English Creek ShopRite are being sent home with students on Monday to fill with non-perishable food items and return to ACS by Friday, January 31.

A Bowls of Hope Ticket/Sponsorship Order Reply Form is also attached to the Food Drive donation bags. Parents who purchase tickets or choose to be an Event Sponsor for the Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off and attend the event may also bring their donation bag that night.

To raise awareness about the Food Drive and the Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off, students in the 6th-12th grades have been challenged to create an original video to promote these events. The new “Bowls of Hope Video Contest,” with cash prizes for the top three entries, was announced during Upper School Chapel on Friday, January 10. The contest will end in just one week – on Friday, January 17. The winning video will be posted on ACS social media and the top three videos will be shown during the Bowls of Hope event. CLICK HERE for the Video Contest Information Sheet.

We are looking forward to seeing our school families and friends in the community at the Bowls of Hope. Tickets and sponsorships for the Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off can be purchased online at  — www.acseht.org/bowls-of-hope or at the door. CLICK HERE to purchase tickets/sponsorships.

Ticket holders and sponsors will enjoy tasting a variety of delicious soups prepared and donated by local restaurants and can vote for their favorite soup. Soup, bread, beverage, and dessert are included in the ticket price and there will also be an ACS student Talent Show and a Silent Auction. High school students will also be involved in volunteering at this event — doing set up, greeting, workers as food servers, and helping with clean-up. 

If you have any questions, please contact our Asst. Director of Development and Communication, PJ Santos, at (609) 653-1199, ext. 302, or at psantos@acseht.org.

Mark Your Calendar for February 1 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit

Mark your calendar for the 7th ACS Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit to be held on Saturday, February 1, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the school gym. You won’t want to miss this enjoyable and entertaining evening of good food, fellowship, a student Talent Show, a Silent Auction, and a canned food drive — all to benefit ACS, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Southern Branch.

The Bowls of Hope benefit and canned food drive will be spearheaded by our high school students, giving them an opportunity to support ACS and bless our local community by selling tickets to the event, volunteering during the Bowls of Hope, and encouraging family and friends to donate to the canned food drive. An email with information about the Bowls of Hope will be sent to the parents and guardians of high school students next week. Information about Silent Auction Classroom Baskets that our PreK4-8th grade classes will be creating for the Silent Auction will also be sent home next week.

The Bowls of Hope will feature some 20 area restaurants and chefs serving up their signature soups. For one ticket price, those attending will have the opportunity to sample the soups and vote for their favorite. The canned food drive will kick off next week and continue through the night of the Bowls of Hope to benefit the Community FoodBank.

Tickets and Event Sponsorships will be available for purchase starting on Friday, January 10, in the ACS school office, from any ACS high school student, or online. Tickets will also be sold at the door that night.

ACS Students Bless Work of Atlantic City Rescue Mission From Bowls of Hope Proceeds

ACS students and staff presented the Atlantic City Rescue Mission with a check for $1,670 on Monday, February 25 to support the mission’s important work serving the homeless and needy in the region. The donation came from the proceeds of the February 2 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit. Rescue Mission President and CEO Dan Brown welcomed the students and staff and thanked Atlantic Christian for having a heart for those who need a helping hand. The four students who presented the check were members of the ACS chapter of the National Honor Society that along with other high school students helped sell tickets and volunteered at the Bowls of Hope. Pictured from left are: 11th grader Kathryn Winder, Rescue Mission Vice President Pastor Bill Warner, 12th grader Ryan Lomangino, 11th grader Dalton Sage, Rescue Mission President Dan Brown, Rescue Mission Kitchen Director and ACS alumnus Dara Brown Heston (’11), 12th grader Rose Shaw, and Upper School Principal Meg McHale.

After meeting with Mr. Brown, the ACS group was given an extensive tour of the mission by Pastor Bill Warner and Bob Franklin, the Mission’s Partnership Development Officer. The group visited the men’s floor, the women’s and family center, the kitchen, thrift shop, and Hopeful Grounds Coffee Shop. Pastor Warner said the Mission’s programs, which are fully funded by donations, focus on ministering to the heart, soul, mind, and body of every person who seeks help at the Mission. He said over 3,500 volunteers serve annually at the Mission and encouraged the students to come back and be hands-on volunteers. “The most important lesson you can learn is that life isn’t about focusing on yourself, it’s about caring for the people around you,” Warner said.

Gregory’s Restaurant Wins Golden Spoon and Souper Soup Awards at 2019 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit

Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar in Somers Point took the two first place awards in our 2019 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit — winning both the People’s Choice “Golden Spoon Award” and the Chef’s Choice “Souper Soup Award” with their rich and creamy Shrimp and Lobster Bisque. Sal’s Coal Fired Pizza in Somers Point came in 2nd place in the Golden Spoon Award with its New England Clam Chowder, and the Whisk Bakery and Cafe in Mays Landing took 3rd place in the Golden Spoon Award with its creative Cheeseburger Soup. We were thrilled to see some 400 people come out to sample the inviting variety of hot, delicious soups and choose their favorite. We enjoyed having Chef Joseph Massaglia, owner of Mama Mia’s in Marmora and Eat at Joe’s in Egg Harbor Township, join us again as our official “Souper Soup” judge, who had the difficult task of picking the best soup out of a very competitive field of contenders. Thank you to everyone who bought a ticket, donated to be an Event Sponsor, or brought cans of soup and other non-perishable items for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Working together, our 2019 Bowls of Hope was a “souper” success.

The Bowls of Hope showcased some of the best restaurants in and around Atlantic County serving up their specialty soups. Our high school students had the great experience of helping serve some of the soups and working behind the scenes with set-up, clean-up, selling tickets, and more. Students from elementary to high school presented 13 entertaining acts throughout the evening, showcasing their God-given talents and abilities. Students sang, danced, and even performed while riding hover boards. The high school duo of Ashleigh Martin and Lola Oguntuase preceded their act by talking about a student project that is being planned this spring to raise awareness about human trafficking.

We would like to thank and recognize the 18 chefs and restaurants who donated soup and helped make our event a success. Please join us in thanking them by patronizing these establishments. Our 18 participating restaurants and chefs were: Academy of Culinary Arts; Atlantic City Rescue Mission Kitchen; Barrels Authentic Italian Foods; Brick House Pub and Grille; Carluccio’s Coal fired Pizza; Chickie’s & Pete’s Egg Harbor; Eat Clean Organization; Gregory’s Bar; The Original Soupman Deli in Resorts; Sadia’s Tea and Coffee; Sal’s Coal Fired Pizza; Sofia Margate; Steve and Cookies By the Bay; Tacocat Linwood; Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall; Varsity Inn; Whisk Bakery and Cafe; and The Windjammer “Cafe Bar Grille”. We also had a surprise visit during the evening from Congressman Jeff Van Drew, who sampled some soups and presented our school with a congressional certificate of commendation for our event, which is benefiting our school’s educational programs, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, and the Community FoodBank of NJ, Southern Branch.

We would also like to thank and recognize our generous Bowls of Hope Sponsors: American Church Group of NJ; B.F. Mazzeo Fruit and Produce; Clayton’s Self Storage; Edward Jones Investments, Jason Kiefer, Financial Advisor; Formica Brothers Bakery; HS Restoration and Cleaning Service; Olympic Physical Therapy; and Sadia’s Tea and Coffee.

Thank you to photographer Christina Kha for donating her services to capture these special moments. CLICK HERE if you are interested in purchasing photos from the event.

 

CLICK HERE FOR THE PHOTO GALLERY

 

Servant’s Heart Club Makes Valentine’s Care Packages for AC Rescue Mission

Elementary students in our Servant’s Heart Club created Valentine’s Day care packages this week for the Atlantic City Rescue Mission to distribute to the homeless in our community. The 2nd-5th grade students created the care packages during their monthly after-school meeting on February 5. The care packages included hand-made Valentine’s Day cards that shared the gospel message, a pair of warm socks, and a bag of candy. Club Advisor and school parent Jennifer DiMaio said the students eagerly participated in every step of the project.

Join Us This Saturday, Feb. 1, For Our Popular Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit

Our popular Bowls of Hope Soup-Tasting Benefit is just ONE DAY AWAY — on Saturday, February 2 — from 6-8 p.m. in the school gym. Happy to welcome this week two more participants in the soup cook-off — Barrels of Margate and the Academy of Culinary Arts. We also added a new sponsor — Olympic Physical Therapy in Egg Harbor Township. Come out on Saturday and warm up by sampling delicious signature soups prepared by 18 area restaurants and chefs and voting for your favorite. All proceeds from ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations will benefit the school’s educational programs and the Atlantic City Rescue Mission. Bring a can of soup or other nonperishable with you to donate to our canned drive that will benefit the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.  There will be live music performed by ACS students and a Silent Auction. Click on the button below to buy your tickets online or purchase them at the door.  Join us for a fun evening of good food and fellowship and help support our school and two great community organizations!

PURCHASE TICKETS AND SPONSORSHIPS

 

 

Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Tickets On Sale – New Restaurants, Sponsors Joining Event

ACS parents, families, and friends are invited to the 6th ACS Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off on Saturday, February 2, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the school gym, all to benefit Atlantic Christian, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Southern Branch. More than 20 restaurants and chefs are expected to serve up signature soups, including the  Atlantic City Rescue Mission, Brick House Pub & Grille, Carluccio’s, Eat Clean Organization, Gregory’s, The Original Soup Man, Sadia’s Tea & Coffee, Sofia’s of Margate, Steve & Cookie’s, Tacocat, Varsity Inn,  and Whisk Bakery & Cafe.

Several businesses are already on board as Sponsors — American Church Group of NJ; B.F. Mazzeo Fruit & Produce; Clayton’s Self Storage; Edward Jones Investments, Jason Kiefer Financial Advisor; HS Restoration & Cleaning Service; and Sadia’s Tea & Coffee. Additional sponsors are welcome for a donation of $400 and sponsors will receive 4 complimentary tickets to the Bowls of Hope. Formica Brothers Bakery will again be donating tasty rolls, and delicious home-made desserts will be provided.

ACS students will entertain the crowd with live music, and a Silent Auction featuring themed gift baskets like “Super Bowl Party,” “Baker’s Delight,” and “Family Game Night,” donated by our PreK4-8th grade classes will be held. Parents, please note that the collection deadline for all Silent Auction baskets is Friday, January 25.

Student Council members have initiated a “Let’s Can Hunger” Food Drive to collect canned soup and other canned food for the Community FoodBank of NJ, Southern Branch. Collection boxes are located in the school foyer and next to the second floor office of the Upper School Principal. The canned food drive will continue to the night of the February 2 Bowls of Hope event.

The prices of the Bowls of Hope tickets, which are considered a charitable, tax-deductible gift, are: Adults-$20; Students-$10; Children (6-10)-$5; Children under 5-Free. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased in the ACS school office, from any ACS high school student, or online. Tickets will also be sold at the door that night.

Buy a Ticket or Be a Sponsor for Feb. 2 Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit

ACS parents, families, and friends are invited to the 6th ACS Bowls of Hope Soup Cook-Off Benefit on Saturday, February 2, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the school gym. More than 20 restaurants and chefs are expected to serve up their signature soups, including the Brick House Pub & Grill, Eat Clean Organization, Sadia’s Tea & Coffee, and the new Whisk Bakery & Cafe in Mays Landing. Last year’s “Souper Soup” Chef’s Choice Winner Gregory’s Restaurant in Somers Point is also participating again. Come out for an enjoyable evening of good food and fellowship, all to benefit Atlantic Christian, the Atlantic City Rescue Mission, and the Community FoodBank of New Jersey, Southern Branch.

Several businesses are already on board as Sponsors — American Church Group of NJ; B.F. Mazzeo Fruit & Produce; Clayton’s Self Storage; Edward Jones Investments, Jason Kiefer Financial Advisor; HS Restoration & Cleaning Service; and Sadia’s Tea & Coffee. Additional sponsors are welcome for a donation of $400 and sponsors will receive 4 complimentary adult tickets to the Bowls of Hope. Formica Brothers Bakery will again be donating tasty rolls, and delicious home-made desserts will also be provided. Everyone attending the Bowls of Hope is also being asked to bring in a can of soup or other non-perishable to donate to the Community FoodBank of NJ. It’s all about giving back to our community!

ACS students will entertain the crowd with live music and a Silent Auction featuring beautiful gift baskets donated by our PreK4-8th grade classes will also be held. The prices of the Bowls of Hope tickets, which are considered a charitable, tax-deductible gift, are: Adults-$20; Students-$10; Children (6-10)-$5; Children under 5-Free. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased in the ACS school office, from any ACS high school student, or online. Tickets will also be sold at the door that night.

 

PURCHASE TICKETS AND SPONSORSHIPS

 

Girls’ Bathroom Stall Doors Newly Decorated with Inspirational Artwork Painted by ACS Alumnus

Inspiring Bible verses with bold, colorful illustrations are now decorating the bathroom stall doors in the second floor girls’ bathroom. ACS alumnus Dara Brown Heston (’11) painted the verses and artwork on the doors over the Christmas break. “It was great to come back to ACS and do something that would encourage the students,” Dara said. “The verses were specifically chosen to encourage a woman to be strong and confident in the Lord.” 12th grader Rachel Colasuonno said she and other students were pleasantly surprised by the decorated doors. “Everyone was talking about them when we got back to school on Tuesday because they are so beautiful. I took pictures of them and sent them to my mom,” Colasuonno said.

Dara said she had a lot of fun doing the project, which took about 25 hours to complete over a seven-day period.  “I had praise and worship music blasting while I was painting, it was like one long worship session,” Dara said.  She and Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen first started collaborating on the project in the fall of 2018. Two of the doors had been decorated with Bible verses in the summer of 2017 by alumnus Candace Winkel (’16). Dara expanded on the project, adding artwork to the two doors and painting additional verses and art on the four other doors. “I feel God is going to use these verses to speak to hearts of our young women and I’m thrilled Dara was willing to donate her God-given artistic talents to bless our students and staff in this way,” Oblen said.  She said a similar project is planned in the near future for the second floor boys’ bathroom.

Art is an avocation for Dara, who is a self-taught artist and works as the assistant facilities director, kitchen manager, and chef at the Atlantic City Rescue Mission.  She has completed several mural projects for the Mission and is excited about an upcoming trip to Ireland in February, where she has been invited to paint murals for the Dublin Christian Mission. Photos of each door can be seen on the ACS Facebook page.