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15th Annual Tasting Statesboro serves up a night of culinary excellence and community impact for United Way

The Anthony P. Tippins Family Training Facility was alive with energy Wednesday night as the 15th Annual Tasting Statesboro the United Way brought the community together for an evening of flavor and fellowship. Guests filled the space to sample dishes from some of the area’s top chefs and restaurants, all while rallying behind a cause that helps strengthen programs and services for families throughout the region.
Chance Lucas
Chance Lucas

The Statesboro community came together Wednesday evening, August 13, for the 15th Annual Tasting Statesboro the United Way: Master Chef Edition, filling the venue with the sounds of conversation, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of freshly prepared dishes.

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Stacy Underwood of Uncle Shug’s Bar-B-Q Place serves up hearty portions of their signature barbecue to eager guests.

Hosted by United Way of Southeast Georgia, the annual tasting event once again brought together dozens of local restaurants, caterers, and chefs to showcase their signature creations. Guests sampled an array of offerings from savory bites to sweet desserts while mingling with friends, neighbors, and community leaders in support of programs that directly benefit families across Bulloch County and surrounding areas.

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Gus the Eagle from Georgia Southern University poses for a selfie with a guest, as the university played a key role in hosting the event at the Anthony P. Tippins Family Training Facility.

This year’s gathering continued the tradition that began 15 years ago, growing into one of Statesboro’s most anticipated community events. Attendees purchased tickets knowing their evening of culinary exploration would also help raise vital funds for local initiatives. In 2024, the event reached a record-breaking $39,070 in contributions, and organizers shared hopes of surpassing that milestone again this year.

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Dolans BBQ serves up their award-winning flavors, securing first place in this year’s Master Chef Competition.

The night’s Master Chef Competition added an extra layer of excitement, with Dolans BBQ taking home first place, Jim ‘N Nick’s earning second, and Azul Tex-Mex Express claiming third. Guests were entertained throughout the evening by an all-night performance from Tall Paul, whose live music created the perfect backdrop for the festivities.

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Gus the Eagle helps draw and announce the winning ticket for the evening’s raffle, adding a fun twist to the night’s festivities.

Adding to the celebration, the raffle drawing had one lucky winner Tara Tremblay Jeffers who left with the top prize and a big smile.

Funds raised from this year’s Tasting Statesboro will go toward United Way’s mission of improving lives through education, health, and financial stability programs. Past beneficiaries have included youth mentorship initiatives, food security efforts, early childhood education resources, and healthcare access.

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A guest’s tasting tray filled with a variety of savory and sweet bites from vendors across the event, showcasing the diverse flavors of Tasting Statesboro.

By the end of the night, guests left with full plates, full hearts, and a shared sense of pride in what the community can accomplish when it comes together for a common cause. The 15th Annual Tasting Statesboro the United Way was not just a celebration of food it was a celebration of generosity, collaboration, and the impact that can be made one bite at a time.