The Big Island Rendezvous and the Albert Lea/Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce announce the 12th annual Gourmet Auction. This year’s auction returns to Wedgewood Cove Golf Club on Jan. 27, beginning with a social hour at 6 p.m. with tasting stations opening at 6:30 p.m. The event features both silent and live auctions with the live auction commencing at 7:30 p.m. Proceeds from the event benefit the Big Island Rendezvous Education Days and local programs of the Chamber of Commerce.

Tasting stations featuring some of Freeborn County’s best cooks serving their favorite food items will be the offered. Restaurants include the Big Island Grille & Bar, Hy-Vee, Wedgewood Cove Golf Club, Piggy Blues BBQ, Casa Zamora, Green Mill, Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, and the Willows of New Richland.

People can also sample items prepared by Kim Olson of Grandma’s Gourmet, Smokin’ Bros BBQ, Beth Atz, and “Better than Mom’s” Chicken Noodle soup by “Digger.” Also in the room this year will be an item prepared by members of the National Vitality Center leadership team and Pioneering Healthier Communities.

The silent auction has more than 60 items, including tickets to events along with passes to local and state attractions and many gift baskets. Also included are gift cards and certificates as well as an autographed Minnesota Twins baseball and an autographed photo of Percy Harvin of the Minnesota Vikings.

Live auction items will feature food items by the participating cooks, a one-week stay at a timeshare at Breezy Point, a weekend stay with golf privileges at Pinehurst Golf Club in North Carolina along with Gopher and Minnesota Wild tickets. Over 25 items will be offered at auction.

Tickets are $20 per person or two for $30. Tables of 10 may be purchased for $150. Tickets are available the Chamber offices in the Northbridge Mall. Reservations can be made by calling the Chamber office at 373-3938.