Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
The Crazy Waiter Dinner and Auction begins as a deceptively economical evening for the uninitiated. This year's fare, prepared by Biomet's CEO Dane Miller, costs $20 per person and begins with a delightful salad, an entree of buffalo chicken breast with blue cheese from Maple Leaf Farms, side dishes and a at least one dessert - caramel-topped cheesecake - that last year's participants claim is "to die for."
That's the dinner part.
The crazy part comes when guests have to tip their waiters for a chair, for silverware and a glass of water.
"This is designed to be a fun evening for everybody," Miller said of the event. Proceeds from the dinner and auctioned items go to Combined Community Services emergency assistance program.
Biomet has sponsored the Crazy Waiter Dinner and Auction since 1996. The company has reserved three tables.
"I have a great deal of respect for the work CCS does in this community. It is the greatest charitable organization in the county," Miller said.
Miller claims to be a cool and calm cook, the only thing hot tempered in his kitchen is the seasoning.
He and a couple of guest chefs, Dr. Ron Manahan from Grace College and Bob Vitoux from DePuy - Johnson & Johnson, will tie on their aprons around noon Feb. 11 in order to begin the meal at 6 p.m. at 2517 in Warsaw.
Crazy waiters and an assistant serve eight invited guests, although Darlene Redinger, CCS' director of development, said 10 people can be seated per table.
"Not only can the waiter demand tips, the guests can demand things from the waiter - like doing a little dance or singing during supper."
The auction part will be conducted throughout the evening.
Redinger said services make excellent auction items.
"They bring people into places of business," she said. "And that's good for everyone.
Miller also is issuing an intermarket challenge to the rest of the orthopedic community. "Help this charity," he said. "Lets see tables from all four orthopedic companys in town."
Reservations can be made by calling CCS at 269-6019.
