Once again, our thousands of supporters have made our annual Blue Jeans Ball a huge success. The one-of-a-kind event at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel had celebrity chef Spike Mendelsohn, donning jeans and a denim top mingling among the guests and having a great time.
More than 800 guests enjoyed signature cocktails, tastings from restaurants such as Carmines, Ris and Chef Geoff’s and danced to live music from the DC band Black Tie.
Nancy E. Roman, the new CEO of the CAFB, told the crowd about her recent experience meeting families who wait in line in the early morning hours to pick up desperately-needed food for their families before heading off to work. The chairman of the CAFB board for the past 11 years, Greg Ten Eyck of Safeway and Mendelsohn also thanked the community for their continued support.
The MC for the evening, Scott Thuman of ABC7 introduced Mayor Vincent Gray, who thanked the Capital Area Food Bank and its 700 partners who work year-round to help those struggling with hunger.
The event raised $325,000, as guests bought items in the silent and live auctions, and made cash donations.
Here is a quick look at the unique sights and sounds of the 10th annual event: