Revved Up...and Ready to Savor

Meet the Chefs The Chefs Menu Chef Dining Packages for Auction DANG THAT Mustang! Jethro Mathis Saxophone Thank You To Our Donors Pre Purchase a Mystery Box Revved Up Schedule for the Evening Video About the Creation of the Carroll Shelby Statue

Meet the Chefs at Revved Up and Ready to Savor

We are thrilled to invite Chef Anthony Nelson and the NTCC Culinary Department, along with eight esteemed local chefs, to showcase their culinary masterpieces at this exclusive event. These chefs are renowned for their exceptional culinary skills, and we are honored to have them participate in the Revved Up & Ready to Savor Carroll Shelby Statue Fundraiser.Ticketed guests will have the opportunity to mingle in the foyer of the Whatley Center for Performing Arts at Northeast Texas Community College, savoring each chef's offerings while enjoying a cocktail from Liquid Luxe Bartending of Pittsburg and listening to the smooth sounds of JD Mathis on saxophone.You can find the menu for the evening, featuring each chef's creations, on <a href="https://revvedup.brightrtravel.com/static-pages/the-chefs-menu-for-the-evening" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Chefs Menu</a> page. Each of these chefs and their restaurants/businesses have donated their time and resources for this event.Following the cocktail portion of the evening, we will host an exciting auction where each chef will present a unique culinary package that you won't want to miss bidding on. Details on the culinary packages available for auction can be viewed on the Chef Dining Packages for Auction page (coming soon).We look forward to a wonderful evening filled with culinary delights from these amazing chefs!Host ChefChef Anthony Nelson<a href="https://www.ntcc.edu/academics/programs-study/workforce/culinary-arts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Northeast Texas Community College Culinary School</a>Pittsburg, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/efd6e0f2-4102-4555-92b9-b4f640ced2ee/original.png" alt="block_ID_654" width="292">Chef Nelson attended culinary school at August Escoffier and NTCC. He has done joint catering jobs for the Carroll Shelby family, the Cypress Basin Hospice Ball, Northeast Texas Community College and several others. Chef Nelson started as the Culinary Director at NTCC in July 2023. Since accepting the position, he has been renewing and expanding the program and is working to build it into a full-service hospitality program that will support every aspect of the restaurant, bar and hotel industry. <a href="https://www.ntcc.edu/academics/programs-study/workforce/culinary-arts" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Northeast Texas Community College Culinary Arts Program</a>The Northeast Texas Community College Culinary Arts Program has several options available for all levels of students. We offer a micro credential with one semester, a level one certificate with two semesters, a level two certificate with three semesters, and an Associates degree with the full force semester of two years. With a <a href="https://www.ntcc.edu/node/7048" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">culinary arts degree</a> or <a href="https://www.ntcc.edu/node/7049" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">certificate</a> from NTCC, you can prepare for jobs like: Beginning Chef, Sous Chef, Executive Chef, Pastry Chef, Catering Chef, Restaurant Manager and Catering Manager.The Northeast Culinary Arts Program is housed in the beautiful Culinary Arts School in historic downtown Pittsburg, Texas. The high-end restaurant setting makes the NTCC program a great place to learn in a hands-on environment. Our experienced faculty and small class sizes make this program a unique learning opportunity for students.Chef Cory Dodson<a href="https://thetexaschophouse.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Texas Chophouse</a>Mt. Vernon, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/d95bef91-e20f-4c19-af53-89555723f9f3/original.png" alt="block_ID_622" width="292"><img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/cf7f6709-9d0c-4ae6-91a6-c96767d71317/original.jpeg" alt="block_ID_647" width="306">Chef Cory Dodson has been on a journey in the culinary world for seven years. He attended NTTC Culinary School and went on to work for several restaurants, studying different styles and techniques. He has won several competitive cooking awards over the years, most notably a four-year consecutive winner of the Pittsburg Hot Link Festival’s cultural cooking competition. Chef Dodson has become most well-known for his talents in Cajun cuisine and Carolina style barbeque. He also owned and operated an establishment called C.M. Doc’s.Chef Dodson, like others, started out as a line cook, working his way up to being named Head Chef/Executive Chef at several establishments. Currently he is working as a Senior Chef at The Texas Chophouse on the historic downtown square of Mt. Vernon, Texas. There he specializes in steaks, seafood and pasta.<a href="https://thetexaschophouse.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Texas Chophouse </a>is owned and operated by Stephanie and Brad Hyman. The Chophouse is a local family-owned restaurant offering a casual lively atmosphere with great service in a beautiful historic building on Main Street on the square in downtown Mt. Vernon, Texas. Enjoy dining on the patio, in our bar, or in the dining room. We serve only prime-grade steaks, as well as fresh seafood, pastas, fresh vegetables and desserts, all brought in from local providers when available. We also offer a large selection of fine wines and a full bar featuring the largest selections of Bourbons in Northeast Texas. The Texas Chophouse seats 75-100 and provides and provides a dining experience including appetizers, soups/salads, main entrees including steaks, seafood, pastas, desserts, wine and spirits. The Texas Chophouse is located at 102 Main Street, Mt. Vernon, Texas 75457. You can find more information on our website, <a href="https://thechophousetexas.com/menu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://thechophousetexas.com/menu</a>.Chef Enam Chowdhury Angus Grille (Coming Soon)Pittsburg, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/44837a02-8a8f-4243-be63-70d613d2c4b4/original.png" alt="block_ID_623" width="292"><img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/8aabd31b-7f07-4544-9773-30aa289a4ef8/original.jpeg" alt="block_ID_645" width="327">Chef Enam Chowdhury has spent his entire career in the upper echelon of hospitality with over 35 years of experience in luxurious hotels and restaurants in Great Britain, Thailand, South Africa, Italy and the USA. He is an acclaimed chef and has a Fromateur de Fromage designation certified by the Artisanal Cheese Company in La Picholine, New York. He is also a sommelier as well as a 6-Star Butler. His cuisine ranges from Asia to Europe and the Americas. Chef Chowdhury sharpened his skills locally at The Mansion on Turtle Creek, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. It was the position of Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director for Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards which brought him to Northeast Texas. He has also served as the Executive Chef at The Chophouse on Bankhead in Mount Vernon, where he brought his special touch to the growing epicurean scene in Northeast Texas. Chef Chowdhury was integral in the opening of Delta a Marriott International where he served as Executive Chef / Director of Food and Beverage. He recently resigned from this role to open his own restaurant in Pittsburg, Angus Grille, which will serve prime steaks, locally foraged seafood, poultry and produce.Angus GrilleChef Enam Chowdhury brings three decades of culinary expertise and creativity to Angus Grill Steakhouse & Lounge. Angus Grille & Lounge will feature elevated steakhouse cuisine with an emphasis on flavors from Europe and Southeast Asia. A sampling of the menu will feature 100% Angus Steaks from Outpost 76 in Saltillo, Texas, East Coast Seafood, local poultry, greens and vegetables will be sourced from local farmers. In keeping with global flavors, there will be Tom Kha Soup, Chicken Stir Fry with Holy Basil, Stir Fry Elk with Chinese Greens. Specialty game meats, such as Bison, Antelope, Elk and Venison will also be included in Daily Specials on a rotation. The bar will feature all your favorite liquors and mixers as well as a hand curated Wine list to pair with the global flair of the menu.The restaurant will provide elevated Southern hospitality and global Texas cuisine to its finest, and guests will feel as if they were dining in their own dining room. The creative approach to cuisine and service will make for a heightened experience, full of delectable flavors and endearing service that will leave guests wanting more.Chef Salina Dollinger<a href="https://madelinescafe.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Madeline's Cafe</a>Pittsburg, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/98491a2c-13b4-46c5-bd57-5181e85adaeb/original.png" alt="block_ID_624" width="292"><img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/8d9ceb93-d19d-486d-b672-c8738dc45900/original.jpeg" alt="block_ID_644" width="303">Salina Dollinger owns and operates Pittsburg Hot Links Restaurant and Madeline’s Café in Pittsburg, named after her beloved city Pittsburg and her mother Madeline. She comes from a long line of family who have dedicated their lives to feeding people in Pittsburg – following the lead of her great grandfather Stephen Lee Warrick, grandfather E. B. Warrick and father Gene Warrick - affectionately known as “Mean Gene, the Hot Link King”.Her passion is baking an incredible buttermilk pie to die for! When she is not working hard feeding and serving people at the Restaurant and Café, she spends time with husband Scot enjoying nature and grandchildren.<a href="https://madelinescafe.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Madeline’s Café</a> is a unique small-town café where everyone is welcomed into great atmosphere and exceptional food – homemade soups, salads, sandwiches, Polynesian dishes, pies, other desserts and more. Madeline’s has something for everyone from a hearty soup and meatball sandwich to an artisan grilled cheese. The quality of the food is second to none and worth a visit. We know you will enjoy Madeline’s and put it on your list of regular eateries along the way. Madeline’s Café offers Dine In, Online ordering, Back Door Curbside pickup, local delivery service, catering services, venue rental and a meeting place for clubs, family reunions or other gatherings. Salina named the Café after her Samoan mother Madeline Warrick, born and raised on the Island of American Samoa. Gene Warrick, Salina’s father, fell in love in the Navy while stationed in Samoa during the 1950s. He married Madeline soon thereafter in Hawaii. After serving in the Navy, Gene moved Madeline back to his home of Northeast Texas where they raised six children and served hot links and other fare at the Hot Link Restaurant for years and years.Chef Tracy Aamodt<a href="https://www.lospinosranchvineyards.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFrpc5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHYpnLMpdWqHVxAtbVMCZVEN8FRlW53e4AAOY_630Xe8lxQRw834gTgfjfA_aem_kuISwfVTf1SG5KqE7VfazA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards</a>Pittsburg, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/a19d6918-e2c9-41b2-b504-9cd3d974e4cd/original.png" alt="block_ID_625" width="292"><img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/022223ae-9a1a-4fad-b3b1-af3ac807be53/original.jpeg" alt="block_ID_649" width="327">Tracy Aamodt Tracy is a Native American part of the Tohono O’odham nation and Gila River reservation in Arizona. Growing up in Arizona, Tracy was much closer to her culture and very involved with food from the moment she was able to see the stovetop where her father Donald showed her how to cook. He helped ignite her future love and culinary passion while her grandmother Shirley shared her love for food and baked goods. She has especially fond memories at Christmas time with her grandmother baking gingerbread houses and Christmas cookies; holidays, family and food are always a big part of their lives.When she was five years old her family moved from Phoenix, Arizona to Mount Vernon, Texas where she grew up and graduated from Mount Vernon High School in 2006. She then went to college and worked customer service jobs throughout her higher education.Caring for and helping people is a big part of who Tracy is and she found her love and passion through cooking food and makes every meal with the utmost love and care. In 2022 Tracy came back to the kitchen after working a corporate career since 2012 and it was at that time, she met Courtland Reiley at The Cove at Lake Cypress. He helped her recognize how much she loved cooking and how being able to show creativity through food can be extremely exciting. Though it was brief, Courtland helped Tracy recapture her love and her passion for making great tasting food that comes from the heart. She’s thankful to have been given the opportunity to learn, grow and find her love for food again with Courtland’s help. Now working at Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards as the Head Chef, Tracy has high hopes of beginning a new journey, finding a new family and even bigger and better opportunities. She is very excited for this next chapter in creating great memories and even better food!At <a href="https://www.lospinosranchvineyards.com/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFrpc5leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHYpnLMpdWqHVxAtbVMCZVEN8FRlW53e4AAOY_630Xe8lxQRw834gTgfjfA_aem_kuISwfVTf1SG5KqE7VfazA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards</a>, we’re dedicated to crafting exceptional wines from grapes grown in our own vineyards. But for us, it’s about more than just great wine—it’s about creating memorable experiences. That’s why we’ve designed Los Pinos to be a haven where you can connect, relax, and decompress. Whether you’re sipping our award-winning wines or savoring a delicious meal at our on-site restaurant, every visit is an invitation to unwind and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.Sip, Dine & Unwind with us.Chef Samantha Allen<a href="https://www.facebook.com/starpantrycatering/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">STAR Pantry + Catering</a>Mt. Pleasant, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/15396d45-1552-4744-9a7e-5cd36e8ddaef/original.png" alt="block_ID_655" width="292"><img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/1e58353e-7caf-4b03-a489-ed2d5f883de7/original.jpeg" alt="block_ID_646" width="363">Samantha Allen - Owner & Chef of STAR Pantry + Catering A passionate chef and dedicated mom of three, Samantha began her culinary journey at just 16 years old, working in restaurants and falling in love with the art of food. After completing a culinary program in 2019 with Northeast Texas Community College, she launched Star Pantry + Catering in 2023 a business known for its customized dishes, attention to detail, and heartfelt approach to cooking.From her signature made from scratch boudin— which has earned recognition in culinary competitions three years in a row including the Texas Hotlink Festival here in Pittsburg— Samantha creates memorable meals that bring people together. Whether she’s catering large events, intimate home gatherings, or delivering freshly prepared family meals, she tailors every dish to perfection, down to the finest detail, even how vegetables are sliced or diced.When she’s not in the kitchen, you can find Samantha cultivating fresh herbs that she incorporates into her dishes for that extra burst of flavor. Her love for cooking and commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients ensure that every bite is a delicious experience. With Star Pantry + Catering, she delivers more than just food—she delivers a personal touch and a passion you can taste.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/starpantrycatering/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">At STAR Pantry + Catering</a>, we specialize in catering to your exact needs. We ask questions to orchestrate exactly what you're looking for. From in-home dinners that I prepare and serve to you and your guests from your kitchen to a quick appetizer for an event, to preparing an entire menu for a gathering at your house. If you have family coming in and would like to just focus on spending time visiting rather than cooking, give me a call. We can plan out a menu and I will deliver it to your home. In addition, I do take-home casseroles that you can just pop in the oven for those busy evenings. Weekly meal prepping for whatever dietary needs you may have. Our goal is to make life more convenient for you. At STAR Pantry we also cater to home needs as well. I love to come into homes after a fun and busy weekend and clean for the client. I also do refrigerator clean outs and pantry organizing. I also offer basic house cleaning on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis. After a hectic holiday season, give me a call to take down and remove your Christmas decor. The possibilities are endless as to how I can make life easier for you.Goldie O'Quinn Vaughn<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CreativeCateringmp/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Creative Catering</a>Mt. Pleasant, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/c25eb8bd-e387-41d6-a37c-c6816ccc0819/original.png" alt="block_ID_656" width="292">Chef Goldie Vaughn and her sister-in-law, Linda O’Quinn, opened Serendipity Catering in 1996 because a friend needed a wedding caterer for her daughter. Over the years, Goldie and Linda catered weddings, corporate events and showers. They enhanced the business after attending International Catering Seminars and American Bridal Consultant Events. When Serendipity closed, Chef Goldie went to work for Herschel’s in Mt Pleasant as the catering manager and catered corporate meals and private events. In 2012, Chef Goldie opened a second catering company, Creative Catering in Mt.Pleasant. She strives to try to stay up to date with current trends, foods, and showcasing her tables with decorative serving pieces. Chef Goldie caters a vast variety of events including corporate events, school and chamber banquets, and special events. “I do not consider myself a chef, but I love making people happy, serving the best food I possibly can,” said Goldie.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CreativeCateringmp/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Creative Catering</a>Creative Catering, established in 2012, is committed to providing exceptional food for your event, as well as exceptional customer service. The company caters weddings, corporate events, showers, family reunions, special events and more. Voted the 2018 Reader’s Choice Best Caterer by the Mt. Pleasant Tribune.Creative Catering is a full-service catering company, providing the food, as well as all the serving décor, including tablecloths and cutlery. Goldie works with each client to create a custom menu that will delight their guests. Whether you need simple appetizers, a dessert buffet, a Mexican fiesta, or a four-course sit down dinner, Creative Catering will ensure your guests have an exceptional culinary experience.From a simple meal to large parties or weddings. They do it all. Creative Catering is your one stop shop catering company.Chef Blake Bayne<a href="https://www.mangiamocelina.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=wix_google_business_profile&utm_campaign=5143290234979807055" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mangiamo Italian Market & Deli</a>Celina, Texas<img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/c6be3efc-69e2-4808-9fd3-70512cf8855e/original.png" alt="block_ID_657" width="292"><img class="q-image" src="https://api.brightrtravel.com/media/volatile/static-page-block-images/30b517bf-1e78-4602-8ca6-ade60ad163e3/original.jpeg" alt="block_ID_643" width="340">Chef Blake Bayne has accepted a position as Executive Chef with Mangiamo Italian Market and Deli in Celina, TX. Chef Bayne started cooking in 2010, and then attended Le Cordon Bleu in 2015, graduating with honors. While attending Le Cordon Bleu, he began an internship with Chef Tom Fleming at Crossroads Diner. After graduation he continued working at Crossroads, while also working at Stonebridge Ranch Country Club for Chef Juan Garcia. He started as a lead line cook, however a position became available for Sous Chef. After four months of training, he became the Sous Chef. Shortly after moving to Anna, TX, Chef Bayne accepted a Sous Chef position at Hurricane Creek Country Club. A Club member expressed interest in opening their own BBQ restaurant and needed an Executive Chef. Chef Bayne served as the Executive Chef for three years at the Corner BBQ Shack in McKinney. He recently resigned his position and is excited to be opening a new Italian market and deli in Celina called Mangiamo at the end of January. “It has been an incredible journey and there is more in store this coming year. You never stop learning in this business, there is always something new to be created. Never stop your desire and passion to learn and adapt,” said Chef Bayne.<a href="https://www.mangiamocelina.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=wix_google_business_profile&utm_campaign=5143290234979807055" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mangiamo Italian Market & Deli</a>Three generations ago, the Algiere men of Acri, Italy made their way to America and landed in the northeast in the town of Westerly, RI. They grew crops in their gardens and continued the traditions of "farm to table". Fast forward 100 years and here we are carrying on our heritage through traditions.Mangiamo Italian Market & Deli is a family owned and operated Italian market providing fresh and flavorful goods not generally found locally. The restaurant serves sandwiches, soups, salads and wood fired pizzas all made in house using the best imported meats and cheeses along with as many locally sourced ingredients as possible. The pizza dough is a 72-hour cold fermented recipe that has been a 10 year labor of love to develop and is just fantastic. Mangiamo features local beers on tap and a robust selection of imported wines available by the glass or bottle. The dry goods market features all of the Italian staples that you would otherwise have to travel to downtown Dallas to procure. The father and son duo, Robert and Jason Algiere, are sharing their Italian roots in the heart of Celina, Texas and coming together to share their tradition of handcrafted Italian cuisine at Mangiamo which means "Let's Eat". They invite you to enjoy a little slice of Italy at Mangiamo Italian Market & Deli.