The March of Dimes of Lake and Sumter Counties is pleased to announce its Fifth Annual Signature Chefs Auction is coming on Thursday, October 14 at 6 pm in the grand ballroom of The Mission Inn Resort and Club in Howey-in-the-Hills. The fundraiser is being held in support of the March of Dimes mission to work together for healthier, stronger babies and will feature at least 20 chefs from the region sharing samples of their Signature dishes.

The March of Dimes welcomes Phyllis Baum RN, MBA, Chief Executive Officer of Leesburg Regional Medical Center and Chief Nursing Officer of the Central Florida Health Alliance, as this year’s honorary chair. Baum brings a wealth of experience to the role as a practitioner and expert in health care concerns for over 23 years. She is a major advocate in the cause of women’s health concerns. We are thrilled to have someone of Ms. Baum’s background and experience assisting us this year.

Early sponsors of the event include Leesburg Regional Medical Center, South Lake Hospital, Brighthouse Cable, Florida Hospital Waterman, Healthy Living Magazine, and The Daily Commercial. The LC Swing Band is providing the musical entertainment for the evening. Their combination of smooth jazz and big band sentimental favorites promises to provide a special touch to the evening. Tickets for the event are $50 per person. Corporate tables of ten are available for $450 and sponsorships begin at $1,000. For more information on how to participate in the event, contact the March of Dimes office in Tavares at 352-343-0024 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .