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 – but only on their computer screens.
The annual fundraising event is put on by the school’s junior board of visitors, and all proceeds benefit the board’s endowed nursing scholarship. Previous events also have supported the expansion of the nursing school’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 meal totes delivered straight to participants’ doors. But to promote social distancing and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is moving online for 2020.
“The 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 chairwoman. “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.”
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 will include 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 Nov. 15.
The live event will be held that day 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,” Hastings said. “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 and a fun night and to support nursing education in the process.”
Tickets for the No Show Ball are available to order online at uab.edu/noshowball.
—Virginia Martin
