Aside from wanting to tell the real story of Jim Morrison, write a book about her family connection to Al Capone, solve every backstory street rumor you've ever heard . . . and

hide from photojournalists, Christine Cassano and her stunt doubles want to take over the 36th Street diner, Our Kitchen, for one night. Her store, Amelia Flower and Garden Shoppe is housed in a building owned by Danny and Julie Zeigler, who also own Our Kitchen.

You'd think a flower arranger, dog lover, parakeet resquer and full time organic flower shop owner would have plenty of outlets for creative expression. But about the only entree she gets to showcase is raw food from Woody's deli for her favorite sidekick, Jensen.

"We are doing it because the opportunity arose and we all love to cook and eat and we all love Italian, I am Italian and it will just be lots of fun and romantic," said Cassano.
Twenty percent of the proceeds from the classic italian dinner at Our Kitchen, 813 West 36th Street, will benefit the Will Steger Foundation.

The mostly organic and local menu will consist of Penne Vodka or Chicken Cacciatore, vegetarian Caesar salad, garlic bread, cheesecake, cannoli, coffee or tea and two free glasses of complimentary wine. Assisting Cassano on Sunday, December 18 at 6 pm, will be Elizabeth Mattingly, Jessica Warner, Maria Brosofske Wires, Christopher Farstad, Gretchen Peck and Brita Melom.

Those wishing to purchase tickets to the dinner should call 612.208.1205 or stop by Amelia Flower and Garden Shoppe at 910 West. 36th St. The deadline for the $60 dinner is December 8.

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