The Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance celebrates its ninth annual Shaken, Not Stirred Gala with a new date and venue this year. The Southeast’s premier ovarian cancer awareness event will mark its debut at the Georgia Aquarium on February 9. Guests can expect the same first-class evening of celebration with specialty cocktails, dinner created by Les Dames d'Escoffier International - Atlanta Chapter Chefs, dancing, casino games, tributes and auctions. 11Alive’s Christine Pullara (our favorite) will serve as emcee at the event, and the Celebrity All Star Band will provide live entertainment.
Buckhead resident Debi Loftis (pictured), a member of Les Dames d’Escoffier International – Atlanta Chapter Chefs, will create a signature side dish for the Gala’s seated dinner. Currently a freelance chef, caterer and recipe tester, Loftis’ adventures have taken her from Atlanta, catering to the cast and crew of numerous TV programs and films, to opening Haven Wine Bistro in Paso Robles, Ca., to working with Restaurant Associates in New York, where she was director of restaurant services at the National Football League.
Lending her talent to events like GOCA’s Shaken, Not Stirred Gala holds special significance for her.
“I look forward to the GOCA event each year,” Loftis says. “I have personal experience caring for a loved one going through cancer treatments and coming out the other side. It takes a great toll on everyone. Each moment is precious and any assistance given is so appreciated.”
Proceeds from the gala help fund statewide education and awareness efforts and community outreach programs of the Georgia Ovarian Cancer Alliance. The mission of GOCA, a 501c-3 non-profit, is to increase awareness and educate Georgia’s women of all ages and their families, as well as the healthcare community about the risks and symptoms leading to early detection.