Wisconsin chefs celebrate Chef Jacques Pepin's 90th birthday with celebration at The Pfister Hotel

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- One of the most celebrated French chefs has a big birthday coming up. 

Jacques Pepin is a chef, author, winner of 24 James Beard awards, and has influenced cuisine all over the world through his lifetime of work. 

He turns 90 later this year. Because of that, 90 different celebrations are happening all over the country throughout this year, including an event Monday night at The Pfister Hotel. 

Dozens of Wisconsin's top chefs gathered to showcase cooking inspired by Pepin. 

People sampled food, wine, and bid on silent auction items signed by celebrity chefs and Pepin himself. 

He wasn't here in Milwaukee, but did show up virtually for a special toast. Money raised from this event goes to a good cause -- the Jacques Pepin Foundation.

The foundation helps people get into the culinary industry, and an organizer says Milwaukee can always use more talent in kitchens.

"To a lot of people, it's a financial barrier," said John Wise, VP of food and beverage, Marcus Hotels and Resorts. "They can't afford the fees to pay to go to cooking schools. So, through organizations like the Jacques Pepin Foundation, scholarships are available to them here in this market and to other markets around the country."

The foundation also supports community food programs.