Cake Decorating Contest To Raise Funds For Castner Scholarship

For the second year, Burke's Tumbling Academy in Swampscott will host a cake decorating night to celebrate the birthday of Allie Castner in January and raise money for the late teen's scholarship fund. 

Jen Burke, owner of the gymnastics facility at 21 Elm Place in Swampscott holds "fun nights" each month at the gym - offering fun activities such as pizza making, costume parties and movie nights for kids up to age 12 and giving parents a chance to have a night out.

This month's fun night set for January 22 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., will be a cake decorating contest in honor of Castner. 

Allie Castner was struck and killed as she crossed the street near her Marblehead home in August of 2009. She was 15-years-old.

"Allie's mom Julie was my coach growing up," Burke said noting Castner now works at the facility. "With everything Julie has done for me, I wanted to give back to her."

Burke said many of Allie's friends also tumbled at her facility over the years and with Allie's birthday on January 29, the cake decorating contest is a way to remember their friend. 

"We celebrate her birthday and the kids love it," Burke said.

For a $20 admission fee, kids ages five to 12 are invited to bring an undecorated cake to Burke's Tumbling Academy, along with any materials they want to decorate with. Pizza will be served as well.

"Last year we had kids making towers and houses with just piles of frosting," Burke said with a laugh. "Allie's friends and family come out and donate their time and we all have a lot of fun."

This year 100 percent of proceeds will go to the Allie Castner Memorial Scholarship Fund. 

"It's a great scholarship fund for someone in high school to be able to work hard and get," Burke said. "I remember when Allie used to run around the gym, she was a sweet girl. Julie is my biggest role model and coach, I want to give back to her for all she's done for me."

Admission will be capped at 50 participants. To register call Burke's Tumbling Academy at 81-592-3547or email Burke at  Jen@burkestumblingacademy.com 

Participants can register as a group or individual for the cake contest. 

During the event, Restaurant Paradiso on Railroad Avenue is offering 10% off the bill for parents of kids participating.