11th Annual Imagine Gala guaranteed to delight the taste buds
Prepare to bring your appetite for competition to the 11th Annual Imagine Gala, to be held 7 to 11 p.m. on March 12 at the Imaginarium Science Center, 2000 Cranford Avenue in Fort Myers. In addition to the other whimsical wonders and decadent delights this event has become known for, some of Southwest Florida’s finest chefs will compete in a live cook-off and entertain the crowd while highlighting the unique flavors, colors and textures of the region’s springtime bounty.
The chefs’ pantry will be stocked with produce, meat, seafood, dairy products and other delicacies that meet the exacting standards of the Fresh From Florida program. A mysterious, secret ingredient will make things even more interesting.
As the competition reaches a fever pitch, no one should worry about being able to stand the heat, as the kitchen will be staged under the stars on the beautiful grounds of the Imaginarium. Guests will be served each of the chefs’ appetizer course, and can purchase opportunities to vote on their “Fan Favorite.” The money from each vote will go directly into the scholarship fund to support summer camp scholarships for students that would not otherwise be able to afford the experience or to match funds with the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools to offer STEM college scholarships. These votes will be counted among those of a panel of local celebrity judges, and the chefs will be afforded a 10-minute presentation to explain the strategy, inspiration and techniques behind their masterpieces. A seat on the judges’ panel will be offered to the highest bidder the night of the event.
Catering focused on Fresh From Florida ingredients will be provided, along with an open bar. In addition to sumptuous culinary creations, attendees will enjoy music and dancing, a live and silent auction, interactive activities, other entertainment on the theme of food and food science and many more surprises. The event calls for cocktail attire.
Many levels of sponsorship are now available, offering exciting promotional opportunities, gala tickets, a seat on the Celebrity Cook-Off Judge’s Panel, family memberships and more. All money raised at the event benefits The Imaginarium Group and SWFL Museum of History Foundation, a 501(C)(3) organization that supports the Imaginarium and the SWFL Museum of History in raising exhibit and education program funds. Lipman Produce has once again graciously agreed to be Title Sponsor of the gala.
About the Imaginarium Science Center
The Imaginarium Science Center is a family-friendly science center and aquarium offering fun interactive exhibits and a 3-D theatre. The mission is to engage guests in the exploration of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) through hands-on exhibit experiences and educational programs that further the understanding of the natural and human-made world, foster an appreciation for Southwest Florida’s unique environment and natural waterways, and nurture intellectual curiosity, discovery, and innovation. For more information, visit www.i-sci.org.
About the SWFL Museum of History
The SWFL Museum of History The Southwest Florida Museum of History is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and interpretation of history and traditions, with particular emphasis on Fort Myers and Southwest Florida. Exhibits showcase the region’s rich history, from prehistoric to modern day. For more information, visit www.MUSEUMofHISTORY.org.
Two great museums come together!
The Imaginarium Science Center and the SWFL Museum of History have been under joint leadership for nearly a decade, but are now planning a new museum experience. Get a sneak peek as to where that path may lead at this joint fundraising event. It is sure to make history and blaze new trails into the future!
