A Serving of Philanthropy

More than 800 tickets were purchased for the 38th Annual Celebrity Chefs Tasting Luncheon and Silent Auction, hosted by the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary of Jacksonville, on Thursday, April 4.

The event was held at the Prime Osborn Convention Center. It is one of the largest annual fundraising events for the Salvation Army of Northeast Florida.

This year’s lineup of celebrity chefs included Jacksonville Beach Sea Turtle Patrol Supervisor Kevin Brown; CBS47/Fox30 Action News Jax Chief Meteorologist Mike Buresh; St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral Dean Kate Moorehead Carroll; CSX Executive Vice President and COO Mike Cory; Beacon Fisheries, Inc. Owners Mike and Karen Eddy; HS Turner Real Estate, Inc. and Emeritus Salvation Army Board Member Hank and Sue Turner; The Bearded Pig Owners Michael Schmidt and Chad Munsey; Northeast Florida Fellowship of Christian Athletes Multi-Area Director Matthew Roof; Stellar Properties, Inc. President Ernie Veale and Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters.

Waters walked away with the People’s Choice Award for his Cajun-style turkey and smoked sausage chili.

Before or after dining, guests were able to browse and bid on items in the silent auction, which had more than 100 contributors.

“It’s always an honor for us to collaborate with community partners and businesses when we work to serve our community’s needs,” said Major Keath Biggers with the Northeast Florida area command. “We appreciate the tremendous support of The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, who have organized this event for the last 38 years.”

This year’s Celebrity Chefs Tasting Luncheon and Silent Auction was co-chaired by Rita Cannon, Susie O’Quinn and Debbie Veale.