VACHERIE — St. James Parish’s celebrity wait staff recently earned more than $23,000 to the name of fighting cancer.

Event Lead Brandi Louque and Co-Lead Bridget Matherne hosted the annual celebrity waiter event at Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie, with well-known parishioners standing in as “celebrity” waiters, dishing out drinks and a four-course meal in hopes of earning  “tips” for the local Relay for Life.

Thanks to the heartwarming generosity of community members, sponsors and “celebrities,” organizers said this year’s event earned record numbers. Representatives from local industries and businesses throughout the parish raised the money to support the American Cancer Society.

Callen Hotard, CEO of Hotard Coaches, took home the award for the table with the highest earnings.

The Leadership Team also recognized Rhonda Louque, Celebrity Waiter and Sponsorship Event Lead, for help organizing the event.

Relay for Life of St. James Parish will be held from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. April 14 at Lutcher Park and kicks off with a Survivor Lap.

For more information about St. James Parish Relay for Life or to make a donation, visit main.acsevents.org and search for the St. James Parish Event or email brandilouque@hotmail.com.