NEWS RELEASE

The Homeless Family Center today announced the chefs competing in the 7^th Annual Vero’s Top Chef Challenge. The two day fundraiser includes the Qualifying Event Monday, January 26, 6pm, at the Vero Beach Elks Lodge and the Finale Monday, February 23, 6pm, at The Club at Pointe West.

Competing savory chefs are: Chef Fernando Pons, Agape Café; Chef Michael Chandler, Chelsea’s On Cardinal; Chef Lou Kolbauer, Chive; Chef William Grondzik, Club at Pointe West; Chef Joey Fenyak, Joey’s Seafood Shack; Chef Taylor Rye, Moorings Club; Chef Dean Evans, Oak Harbor Club; Chef Chris Bireley, Osceola Bistro; Chef Bruce Turner, The Tides; Chef Tristyn Baron, Wild Thyme Catering; and Chef Eric Poffinbarger/Chef Brian Jones, Quail Valley Golf Club. Competing dessert chefs are: Chef Tim Blouin, Grand Harbor Club; Chef Jan Neubauer, U Take The Cake; and Chef Joe Faria, Sweet Touches.

Eleven savory chefs and three dessert chefs will be participating in the Qualifying Event. Guests will be able to cast their vote for the best savory dish and dessert; voting is based on taste, presentation and creativity. The three dessert chefs participating in the Qualifying Event are competing for the Dessert          1

Champion title and the winner will prepare the dessert for the Top Chef Finale. Four savory chefs will advance to the Top Chef Finale and compete for the 2015 Vero’s Top Chef title where guests will cast their vote for their favorite chef during blind tastings. A silent auction, wine pairings and cigars by The Havana Club Cigar Shop and Lounge will add to the evening’s excitement.

Vero’s Top Chef Challenge Qualifying Event tickets cost $45 per person for the Mix & Mingle (no seating) and $65 per person for the VIP Reserved Seating. Vero’s Top Chef Challenge Finale costs $185 per person. A cash bar is available at both events; seating is limited. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.homelessfamilycenter.com or by calling 772-567-5537. Sponsorships are also available.

Sponsors currently include Gordon Food Service, Marine Bank Trust & Company, Seacoast National Bank, BankUnited, Bill Bryant & Associates, Mr & Mrs. Wayne Macomber, and Steve Glaser Photography. Event co-chairs are Erin M. Clinton and Joe Chiarella.

HFC, a United Way Agency, provides opportunities for homeless families to end homelessness by achieving self-sufficiency through education, living wages and permanent housing. HFC provides the tools to empower residents by helping them to identify and resolve their problems, find better jobs, and ultimately move into homes where they can become contributing members of our community. HFC also  has A Second Chance Thrift Store and Training Center (ASC) located at 490 Old Dixie Highway, Vero Beach. Donations accepted year round; merchandise pick-up is available.

Individuals interested in donating to the thrift store, volunteering or touring HFC may call 772-567-5537 or visit www.homelessfamilycenter.com.