For the first time in its 14 year history, the UAB School of Nursing’s annual No-Show Ball is asking people to show up. This time, however, it’s just on their computer screens.
No-Show Ball is an annual fundraising event put on by the UAB School of Nursing’s Junior Board of Visitors, and all proceeds benefit the Junior Board of Visitors Endowed Nursing Scholarship. Previous events have also supported the expansion of the UAB School of Nursing’s simulation space, where students receive hands-on experience through the use of lifelike manikins and simulated care scenarios.
In years past, the No-Show Ball has included pre-packed meal totes delivered straight to participants’ doors, but in order to promote social distancing and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is moving online for 2020.
“No-Show Ball is such a popular event every year because it allows individuals to support nursing education and scholarships and enjoy a tasty dinner, all without leaving the comfort of their homes,” said Jamie Dabal, Junior Board of Visitors Chair. “We wanted to carry that spirit into 2020 with a fun twist. This year, we have partnered with Chef Chris Hastings, who created a special menu and will host a live cooking demonstration and Q&A session for No-Show supporters.”
Chris Hastings is the chef and co-owner of Birmingham’s OvenBird and the award-winning Hot and Hot Fish Club, alongside his wife Idie Hastings. As a two-time finalist for the James Beard Award and 2012 recipient of the Best Chef in the South award, Hastings is nationally recognized for his innovative menus and passion for cooking.
As part of the 14th annual No-Show Ball, Hastings has created a custom menu and recommended wine pairings. There are two ticket options available this year, and both options include a one-hour, virtual cooking class with Hastings, step-by-step coaching, a printable recipe, and recording of the cooking class to recreate the meal over and over again. With the $100 ticket option, No-Show Ball supporters will also receive a shopping list for Hastings’ menu, as well as recommended wine pairings. The $150 option includes a fresh ingredient kit that serves four and includes the main meal ingredients, salad, dessert and wine.
Individuals in the greater Birmingham area will be able to pick-up their fresh ingredients box at Hot and Hot Fish Club on Sunday, November 15th.
The live event will be held on Sunday, November 15 starting at 5 p.m., at which time Hastings will walk participants through a cooking demonstration and answer questions.
“COVID-19 has encouraged us all to come together in new and innovative ways, and it has opened new opportunities for community as well,” said Chef Hastings. “Whether people choose to cook along or just kick back and enjoy a glass of wine, I’m excited to be able to partner with the UAB School of Nursing to provide a great meal, a fun night and to support nursing education in the process.”
Tickets for No Show Ball are available to order online at uab.edu/noshowball.
