If you’re looking for a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon, why not help a good cause while enjoying some gourmet food at the same time?
Sodexho and the United Way will host a classic Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 17. in the Colonial Ballroom of the ESU Memorial Union to benefit the United Way. Regina Murphy of The Emporia Gazette said she hopes people will take this opportunity to spend a Sunday afternoon with friends and good food, while supporting the agencies of United Way of the Flint Hills.
“Chris Walker, the 2006 drive chair, was looking for community-building events that would not only raise money for United Way, but provide a unique opportunity for citizens,” said Murphy.
That’s when they came up with the idea for a brunch. Murphy said the idea of a classic Sunday brunch is something more commonly found in bigger cities like Kansas City, but with a cost of only $25 per person, Murphy said she hopes people will stay in town to enjoy the food of Chef Harold Jensen.
Jensen is a former chef de cuisine at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. He has been a personal chef to celebrities Celine Dion, Wayne Newton and Lee Greenwood. Jensen moved to Emporia to raise his family and is the head chef of Sodexo, which cooks for the Emporia State University cafeteria, and Skyline Restaurant.
“He’s donating all of the labor,” Murphy said. “And his staff always creates a sophisticated spread.”
Jensen’s brunch will include assorted domestic and imported cheeses, grilled vegetables, jumbo ravioli, poached shrimp and double-stuffed French toast. Prime rib will be carved, and omelets will be cooked to order. There is a Belgian waffle station, where guests can build their own Belgian waffles.
A special feature for parents is the free childcare that will be available during the brunch, thanks to Emporia Child Care. Children 12 and under can enjoy a light lunch and participate in activities for free. Children will be just across the hall in Webb Lecture Hall.
“Children are invited to attend the brunch, but this is a great opportunity for a few hours of free childcare,” Murphy said. “This way parents can enjoy some quiet time without having to pay for a babysitter.”
Tickets must be purchased in advance by calling The Gazette at 342-4800. Tickets cost $25 for adults and $10 for children age 6 to 12. Reservations must also be made for childcare. Murphy said tickets must be picked up by noon Sept. 15. She also suggested people buy their tickets early, as there is limited space available.