Save the date: BCA's 16th Annual Cultural Salute in NYC

The BCA's 16th Annual Cultural Awareness Salute—which will be held Saturday March 14, 2009, at the Marriott Marquis in New York City—will bring together a large network of influential professionals, restaurant owners, students and educators. This special event, entitled "Culinary, Hospitality and Diversity Excellence," serves a key milestone for the BCA as it continues to explore culinary and cultural excellence; offer a networking platform for young people seeking to achieve their highest career potential; and encourage the industry to create opportunities for People of Color (Asian Americans, Native Americans, Latinos, and Blacks) .

Following an opening cocktail reception, there will be a four-course planned menu inspired by Latin, Creole, Asian and Native American cuisine. The four-course meal and wine pairings will be prepared by students from Johnson & Wales University, South Bronx Job Corps Academy, Monroe College, Hudson County Community College, Foodservice Training Academy, Hospitality Management High School's Culinary Arts Program, Career Academy of NY and LI, Culinary Training Institute, Newark Vocational High School, the Academy of Vocational Careers, the University of North Texas and the Culinary Institute of America.

"This is the one time of year when students come together in the same kitchen and cook in a non-competitive environment," said Alex Askew, president of BCA. "Guests will be amazed by their culinary execution."