Chef Wolfgang Puck Receives “Philanthropist of the Year” Award from The Southern Highlands Charitable Foundation
Last night (Thursday, April 20) Chef Wolfgang Puck was honored with the prestigious “Philanthropist of the Year” award during The 17th Annual Governor’s Black Tie Reception at Southern Highlands Golf Club (Pictured: Chef Wolfgang Puck and Garry Goett – Photo credit Cashman Photo).
Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group pulled out all the stops and presented five different stations from CUT by Wolfgang Puck, Lupo by Wolfgang Puck, Spago by Wolfgang Puck, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill and highlighted their Las Vegas restaurant portfolio’s pastry and breadmaking displays, donating all food and labor costs back to The Southern Highlands Charitable Foundation.
Angela Rock with check
Photo credit Cashman Photo.
Just after 5:30 p.m., guests were welcomed into the event tent at the Southern Highlights grounds as the sultry Cristina Amato was at centerstage setting the tone for the evening ahead. Making a special appearance last night, Chef Puck was welcomed with an overwhelming fanfare as he mingled with invited guests and posed for pictures as he made his way throughout the room.
As guests took their seats, Garry Goett, Master of Ceremonies and Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President, Olympia Group, LLC, led the welcoming remarks, kicking off the program’s presentation. Moments later Governor of Nevada, Brian Sandoval, touched on the 17-year history of The Southern Highlands Charitable Foundation, through its work supporting families in need in Southern Nevada.
Angela Rock, Governor Brian Sandoval, Chef Wolfgang Puck, Garry Goett
Photo credit Cashman Photo.
Just after 7:30 p.m., Chef Wolfgang Puck was introduced on-stage where he was presented his award and delivered a meaningful speech through his commitment to Keep Memory Alive, The Larry Ruvo Center and his long-standing relationship with Meals on Wheels. Wolfgang spoke on his 25-year history in Las Vegas, opening Spago at The Forum Shops as his flagship at a time where the incline in fine dining was just breaking through. He also referenced the tight-knit relationship he had with his mother igniting his passion for culinary, teaching him the importance of community.
He then posed for photos as he accepted his award to which one last surprise of the evening was unveiled. The Southern Highlands Charitable Foundation donated a check valued at $50,000 to Keep Memory Alive, closing out the evening with a roar in celebration.