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Local celebs wait tables for Dawson County kids
A8X4 Screen shot 2015 06 10 at 11.00.21 AM
Breakfast

Wearing aprons instead of business suits, local county officials served up plates of delicious food Friday morning at Longhorn Steakhouse to help raise funds Family Connection of Dawson County.

"A little over 250 plates were served," said Marjean Miller, administrative assistant at Family Connection. "Fifty-five plates were delivered to four local businesses, too."

Celebrity servers included County Commissioner James Swafford, Commission Chair Mike Berg, County Manager Cindy Campbell, Chamber President Christie Haynes, among others.

"I always enjoy doing this," Swafford said. "It's for a good cause. I volunteer every year."

His sentiments were echoed by Berg who has volunteered since the event first started in 2008.

"This is unique," Berg said. "LongHorn is so gracious and Family Connection is a great organization."

Campbell reflected on her first experience.

"It's so much fun," she said.

It's a repeat for Christie Haynes, president Dawson County Chamber of Commerce.

"This is my third year working the Celebrity Waiter Breakfast," Haynes said. To me, the Celebrity Waiter Breakfast is much more than a fundraiser, it is an opportunity to spread the word about the important work that Dawson County Family Connection is doing in our community and also share knowledge about issues that have an impact on our community, such as underage drinking, childhood literacy, etc."

Family Connection Executive Director Nancy Stites was full of praise for all event volunteers as well as attendees.

"The waiters, entertainers, kitchen helpers, those making deliveries, all seem to be having as much or more fun than the diners," Stites said. "We love seeing the community continue to come out for this family-friendly event and support activities and programs of Family Connection."

Guests were greeted by mafia bosses "Don Pepperoni" and "Don Scottzetti" and their black cadillac who 'encouraged' tips.

Entertainers included the Chick-fil-a cow and the Dawson County High School tiger mascot, escorted by cheerleaders Erin Hatcher and Shelby Dununcan. Local lifeguards Lauren and Hayley Burgess made balloon animals for younger guests.

LongHorn employees Shannon Spry, Pam Yates and LeeAnne Cox filled plates of eggs, bacon, french toast and fruit to the steady stream of guests.

"I can't say enough about Longhorn Steakhouse Manager, Jill Gray, and the employees," Stites said. "We're adding hours to their work day, but they always have a smile, and make it happen."

Tim Singleton, a board member for the non-profit and originator of the collaborative concept for the fundraiser was pleased with the turnout and community-wide support.

"This is a collaboration of individuals who get together to have fun," Singleton said. "Breakfast isn't something LongHorn normally serves, so this is unique."

Tickets for breakfast were $10.