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resented by the Emeril Lagasse Foundation, the 13th annual Chi Chi Miguel 
Weekend in April raised over $1 million for Gulf Coast charities. The Chi Chi 
Miguel series of fundraising events included a Wine Walk-About, Dine & Wine, 
Sip ‘n Shop, Golf Tournament, and concluded with the Throwdown. 

The Throwdown Benefit Auction & BBQ took place at Churchill Oaks Clubhouse 

in Santa Rosa Beach. Bringing together the very best in wine, food and philanthropy, 
the spirited outdoor barbeque competition featured five star-studded cooking teams of 
acclaimed winemakers, pitmasters and well-known chefs, including Tim Creehan, Janice 
Mondavi, Rich Aurilia, Trish Hines and Emeril Lagasse. Celebrity judges were Chef 
Jimmy Bannos, Chef Jimmy Bannos Jr., Linda and Jack Del Rio and Chef Jim Shirley. 
The professional judges awarded the 2019 Grand Champions Trophy to Emeril Lagasse’s 
Pork Rangers BBQ team. People’s choice awards were also awarded.

Drawing guests from across the country, the Throwdown kicked-off with a “porktail” 

hour with exclusive wines poured by some of Napa Valley and Sonoma’s best winemakers 
and Nat Sherman cigar tastings. The festivities continued with silent and live auctions 
featuring private wine estate experiences, collectible wines, luxury travel experiences, fine 
jewelry and custom artwork. 

“It’s been incredible to see this event grow from a backyard barbeque with friends 

into the world-class fundraising event that it is today,” says Emeril Lagasse, chairman 
and founder of the Emeril Lagasse Foundation. “My wife Alden and I are honored to 
be involved and are continuously humbled by the generosity of our guests, winemakers, 
chefs, sponsors and community members who make it all possible.” 

Funds raised during the weekend will be distributed to charities along the Gulf Coast, 

with the majority of grants given to local organizations. Beneficiaries include the Emeril 
Lagasse Foundation, Emerald Coast Children’s Advocacy Center, Camille’s Art for 
Autism, Sinfonia Gulf Coast, Alaqua Animal Refuge, Food for Thought, the Ingram Lee 
Foundation and Seaside School Foundation.

photos & story by

Kay Phelan

   VIP Destin at Churchill Oaks Clubhouse

THROWDOWN

Chi Chi Miguel

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Katy Weiss Porter & Deborah Elmore

Alden & Emeril Lagasse, Mike & Val Thompson

Tracy & Alan Wood

Elaine Tucker & Debra Henry

Ewa & Chris Ruyan

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4/25/19   9:50 AM