Local guest chefs to participate in CADA Taste N’ Tell fundraiser
JENNINGS — Local guest chefs will take on the challenge of creating culinary delights as they showcase their signature dishes during the 18th annual Communities Against Domestic Abuse (CADA) Taste N’ Tell fundraiser.
The event teams area business leaders, elected officials and others with their favorite recipes to help raise money for the Billie Sue Thomas Well, a local shelter for victims of domestic abuse.
The fundraiser will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, at the Grand Marais Courtyard, 919 N. Lake Arthur Ave., Jennings.
“Fundraisers, like Taste N’ Tell, help raise money as matching funds to run the shelter,” bookkeeper Janice Esthay said. “We receive grants from the state, but we have to match those.”
Last year’s event raised $29,000 for the non-profit agency and its shelter, which provides 24-hour emergency care for battered women, men and children. This year’s goal is $30,000.
Dozens of teams will take on the challenge of creating culinary delights to please the palates of the ticket holders. The teams will compete in four categories: appetizers, side dishes, entrees and desserts.
The chefs vie for the public’s attention donning costumes and serving from elaborately themed booths.
Winners are selected by ticket voting.
New to this year’s event will be a Parade of Prizes. Participants will be able to buy raffle tickets for $1 each, or 6 for $5, for a chance to win an array of gifts donated by area businesses and individuals.
Other highlights include a silent and live auction and drawings for theme baskets. Entertainment will be provided by saxophonist Marcus Davis of Jennings.
Tickets are $20 and are available in advance or at the door.
The Billie Sue Thomas Well offers shelter, counseling, support groups, parenting skills, legal advocacy, education and job training for battered women, men and children.
“We offer anyone who is abused and their children to come stay at the shelter for 45 days,” Esthay said. “While they are here they get counseling on budgeting, child care, preparing resumes and help looking for jobs.”
Assistance with deposits are also available to those residents who are able to leave the shelter and find a new home.
Last year the shelter provided services to 108 women and 41 children. It also provided restraining orders for 212 people who did not stay at the shelter.
Persons wishing to donate auction items, volunteer or enter a team should contact Bernadine Daboval, 337-842-7902; Jody Clary, 337-842-3607 or Marilyn Watkins, 337-842-4652.