The March of Dimes 2008 Signature Chefs Auction was held on Sunday, October 12, at the Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club in Virginia Beach.

The views of the water provided the perfect setting for sampling delicious food from chefs around Hampton Roads.

My favorite dish was the  halibut cheeks.

They were prepared by Harbor’s Edge retirement community in Norfolk.  I went back for seconds, and um- thirds! Yum, Yum!!

Eric Harryman and I introduced the chefs to the crowd.

Pete Decker III served as emcee.

Matthew Holiday was the professional auctioneer for the live auction.

There was a silent auction, as well. I scored a couple of gift cards in that.

This year’s ambassador recognition went to the Earl Family.

Mr. David Earl talked about how his babies, Zachary and Brynn were so tiny when they were born premature, and required lots of medical attention.  David and his wife Wendy praise the research and support of the March of Dimes for helping their twins to survive.  They are now vibrant 6 year olds!

Against All Odds provided the music.  They are smooth!

Together, this event raised an amazing $54,245.

Here’s the breakdown:

Sponsorship                              $5,000

Tickets & Tables                        14,700

Star Sales                                     950

Fund the Mission                         6,750  triple from last year

Live Auction                               23,000

Silent Auction                              3,845

Total                                   $54,245

For more information on the event and the chefs who donated their valuable time and talent, log on to http://www.hrsigchef.com/.

Fox 43 is a proud sponsor of the event!

Special thanks to photographer  Michael Huizenga for pictures of the event.

And good luck to Cheryl Lee, the Executive Director of the Greater Hampton Roads chapter.   She’s retiring from the March of Dimes, but says she will continue to serve as a volunteer.

Join us for the March of Dimes “Black Tie & Boots” Chefs Auction on Sunday, October 12, 2008.  It runs from 5-8:30pm.

Eric Harryman and I will announce the winners of different categories in the chef’s competition. This will be my 7th year and it’s always a lot of fun. This year it’s at the Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club in Virginia Beach.  There will be soups, entree food and desserts.  See some of the pictures from last year. You can sample the best of Hampton Roads restaurants.  There’s also a silent and live auction! 

For More information- visit www.hrsigchef.com or call (757) 361-0000

Cya there!