The Lakeland Center was cookin’ on March 10, 2012 when 68 volunteer chefs presented a variety of specialties to the hundreds of guests who attended Cookin’ Men 2012. With such an array of flavor offered in seven different food themed areas, including a Taste of Latin Flavor and a Taste of Bar B Q, there was something to please even the pickiest of palettes. 

The prestigious Pink Panache award went home with Rob Kincart and Jeff Kincart, Lakeland’s own “Blues Brothers” whose specialty for the evening was Laurel’s “Really Famous” Potato Casserole.  Each year, the award is presented to the chef(s) who receives the most votes for best table display.

The Cookin’ Men Spirit Award was won by Brad Burton and Eric Jonsson who served up Kickin’ Chocolate Covered Bacon.  The Spirit Award is given to the chef(s) who show the best overall spirit at the event.

Cookin’ Men is sponsored by Lakeland Regional Medical Center Foundation’s Women in Philanthropy giving society and was created to raise funds for women’s and children’s services at Lakeland Regional Medical Center and Lakeland Regional Cancer Center. Heading into its fifth year, the event is one of Polk County’s premier fund-raising events.

Preparation for the event begins months ahead of time when Women in Philanthropy members and Foundation staff seek potential volunteer chefs and sponsors. Plans are already under way for Cookin’ Men 2013 which will be held Saturday, March 23, at 7 p.m. For more information, please call 863.687.1296.

Cookin’ Men includes all the ingredients for a fun and entertaining evening, and it’s all for a great cause. We hope to see you in 2013!