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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
64 | VIPDestinMagazine.com
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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