Once again, supporters of the Bakersfield College Foundation came out to enjoy an evening of wine, jazz music and food at the second annual Sterling Silver Dinner with Playboy Mansion Chef William Bloxsom-Carter on Jan. 29. The event was held in the BC cafeteria, which was transformed into a formal dining hall, and students worked one on one with Bloxsom-Carter.
“Chef Carter is an absolutely gifted teacher, nothing like Hell’s Kitchen,” Mike Stepanovich, head of the BC Foundation explained.
The event is held to support the Culinary Arts Program, Agriculture Program and the Renegade Fund. All proceeds from the event will go to scholarships to help students succeed in such programs.
Stepanovich, and Bloxsom-Carter became acquainted while serving on the same panel as wine judges. Stepanovich proposed the idea to Bloxsom-Carter, and he agreed to be a part of the dinner.
Supporters also could participate in a silent and live auction. Items such as paintings, wine glasses donated by Olcott’s, Mumm Napa wines, pictures and more were auctioned off to benefit students.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our students,” BC Chef Pat Coyle expressed.
Students served guests with appetizers and champagne while some culinary arts students worked in the kitchen to prepare the meal.
“It’s always great to work with a great chef,” said Jill Lomax, BC culinary arts major.
The dinner was prepared by Bloxsom-Carter and BC culinary students. The dinner was accompanied by several wines chosen by Bloxsom-Carter to complement the food and delight guests’ taste buds. The food was locally grown by the BC Agricultural Program and picked earlier that day.
“He may agree to come a third year,” said Stepanovich.
Students benefit from this event not just financially, but it also helps culinary arts and agriculture students have an opportunity to come to and participate in an up-scale event.