Mitchell A. Sturzewski
Reporter

The 13th annual “Men in the Kitchen” event, hosted by HAVEN (Household Abuse Victims Emergency Network) took place on Thursday, April 25 at St. Stephens United Church of Christ. This year the event sold out their 40 ticket total, as of Tuesday, April 24.
Five volunteer chefs donated their ingredients and time to prepare meals consisting of several courses, for tables of eight diners each. HAVEN is grateful to chefs; John Sample, Pete McConnell, Jeremy Ratliff, Derek Woellner and Eric Ott for their generosity in support of this fundraiser. Local community groups got involved this year including a local girl scout troop, who cleaned up and did the dishes as well as the Merrill Police Benevolent Association who gave away 4 dinner passes via their Facebook page.
“We are very thankful for everyone who attended, especially our cooks and those who donated prizes for the event,” HAVEN assistant director Kim West said. “I was very surprised and happy with the level of community support we received this year. Such a level of support makes me hopeful buy-in from the community will continue for years to come.”
All proceeds from the event will support the work of HAVEN in serving adults and children who experience domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, child abuse, harassment, stalking and human trafficking.