Diane Mancuso combines business savvy with service to community
BY ROBYN PHILIPS Gulf Breeze News robyn@gulfbreezenews.com

Mancuso

Diane Mancuso, part owner of Juana's Pagodas on Navarre Beach, illustrates the power of women in business who balance work and play with commitment to community and charitable causes. Mancuso, past and first president of Caring and Sharing (in the early 1990's) is a genuine supporter of local charities.

Juana's Annual Charity Chili Cook-off helped raise funds for Caring & Sharing of South Santa Rosa County. The event was held October 7, at Juana's Pagoda on Navarre Beach. Caring & Sharing is a 100 percent volunteer organization, which helps families in South Santa Rosa County for Thanksgiving and Christmas, providing meals, gift items and clothing.

Many locals and friends look forward to this fun fall outreach event sponsored by Juana's by preparing chili, or being served up a great time.

This year some twenty pots of chili were offered the tasting public's palette. Five chili competition categories, one being "Most Creative Chili Category" and another "Been There... Farted That." A volunteer of Caring & Sharing entered the contest and took home 1st place in the "Most Creative" category!

"Over 100 people participated in the tasting, over $1,200.00 was collected for Caring & Sharing," stated Ann Thompson, Caring & Sharing President. "What a wonderful contribution, which will in turn help to feed others during the upcoming Holidays!"

Diane Mancuso discussed recipe secrets with Nancy Sandler and Ann Thompson, left to right. Pots of chili simmer at far left.

Mancuso believes that this area has some of the best people on earth. "Our event and its location allows for a different venue and access to more people to support those in need," offers Mancuso. Mancuso was quick to point out that charity functions don't happen alone, she has full support from Juana Rudski, Co-Owner of Juana's Pagodas, plus great staff helpers including, Laurah Fulton and Debbie Haywood. Mancuso believes giving back to her community is very important

All monies collected by Caring & Sharing go to help the families in need for the holidays at every fund raiser conducted throughout the year.

For more photos for the charity event visit: www.juanaspagodas. com. For more information or to volunteer with Caring & Sharing call: (850) 939-0727 or visit the organizations website at: www.santarosacares. com.

Generous folks enjoy all kinds of chili served up with a good time for a great cause at the Juana's Chili Cook-off for Caring & Sharing.