“In this tough economy, the food and human contact we provide to seniors in this community is needed more than ever,” said Debbie Case, President & CEO of Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. “We need the community to come out and support our March For Meals events. Our clients are counting on us.  We can’t let them down.”

 March For Meals is a national campaign held during the month of March, initiated and sponsored by the Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA), to raise awareness of senior hunger and to encourage action on the part of local communities. Senior Nutrition Programs across the United States, like Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc., promote March For Meals through public events, partnerships with local businesses, volunteer recruitment and fundraising initiatives.

Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego Inc.’s March For Meals events will include:March 5 – 10:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.: East County Fundraiser at The Barbecue Pit at 2388 Fletcher Parkway, El Cajon, CA 92020. Print and show this flyer when ordering your meal, and 15% of proceeds benefit Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego.

• March 9 – 8:00 to 10:00 a.m.: South County Flapjack Breakfast at Bonita Mall Applebee’s, 3030 Plaza Bonita Road, Suite 1298, National City, CA 91950. Tickets $10.00 per person. 50% of proceeds benefit Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego.
• March 11 – 3:00 to 9:00 p.m.: North County Fundraiser at the Old California Coffee House & Eatery, 1080 San Marcos Boulevard, #176, San Marcos, CA 92078. 20% of the proceeds benefit Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc.
• March 18 – Brew Ha Ha – Comedy Show at The Comedy Store La Jolla: Support Meals-on-Wheels with laughter at The Comedy Store – La Jolla on Monday, March 18, 2013. Doors at 7:00 p.m. Show starts at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person. Two drink minimum purchase required at the Comedy Store (916 Pearl St  La Jolla, CA 92037). Purchase tickets here OR on the night of the show at the Comedy Store box office. Pre-purchased tickets will be held at the door. Call 619-278-4041 for more information.
• March 20- Mayors for Meals: Mayors and other elected officials deliver meals to seniors throughout San Diego County.
• March 20 – Helm’s Brewing: Head over to Helm’s Brewing on March 20 from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. and enjoy amazing San Diego craft beer. 10% of the proceeds benefit Meals-on-Wheels.
• March 28 – 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.: 16th Annual Spaghetti Dinner at Pernicano’s at 711 Turquoise Street, Pacific Beach. $12.00 per person. 50% of proceeds benefit Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego.

About Meals-On-Wheels, Greater San Diego:

The impact that Meals-on-Wheels has on the people it serves goes far beyond the wholesome meals it provides. Meals-on-Wheels’ staff and volunteers often develop friendships with the seniors, as well as providing regular nutrition and daily contact. In addition to the meals, volunteers provide safety checks to ensure that senior clients are safe and well. Without continued meal delivery, many seniors would not have a connection to the outside world. For over 53 years, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. has contributed to the overall well-being of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with a caring volunteer. Learn more at www.meals-on-wheels.org.

About Meals On Wheels Association of America:
The Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) is the only national association and network dedicated solely to ending senior hunger in America. MOWAA is the oldest and largest organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in all 50 states as well as the U.S. territories. MOWAA’s vision is to end senior hunger by 2020. To obtain more information about MOWAA or to locate a local Meals On Wheels program, visit the MOWAA website at www.mowaa.org.

 From November 21, 2012 to January 2, 2013, three local Subaru dealerships supported their employees in delivering meals to homebound seniors. Additionally, Kearny Mesa Subaru stepped up and hosted the Share the Love Food Truck Event for the second year in a row on the Kearny Mesa Subaru lot. 15 food trucks gathered to support the cause, donating 20% of proceeds raised from over 500 people who came out to enjoy the gourmet food.

“Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego is grateful to Subaru of America for its annual “Share the Love” event and to the generosity of all who participated locally in making our Meals-on-Wheels event so successful,” said Debbie Case, President & CEO, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego. “The wonderful support of MOWAA, our local Subaru dealerships—Kearny Mesa Subaru, Frank Subaru, and Bob Baker Subaru, and the 15 food trucks that participated helps ensure that seniors throughout San Diego County receive the nutritious meals they need to stay healthy in their own homes.”

Subaru donates $250 for every new Subaru vehicle sold or leased during the “Share The Love” Event to the customer’s choice of one of five charities, including MOWAA. Over the past five years, proceeds from the Subaru “Share The Love” Event have provided funds to MOWAA to support its vision to end senior hunger by 2020, and to create this grant, which fosters partnerships between local Meals On Wheels programs and Subaru dealerships. The $35,000 grant given to Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego is a portion of the $200,000 in grants that MOWAA is awarding to 48 Meals On Wheels programs across the country that recruited dealership employees to volunteer, deliver meals and engage community members in the fight to end senior hunger.

With poverty for the elderly surpassing those of children due to lack of programs funding seniors, as well as an increase in the 65+ age category over the next 20 years by 72%, seniors are in need of support more than ever. Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego will use the monies to continue to provide daily nutritious meals to seniors who are unable to provide meals for themselves.

About Meals-On-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc.:

The impact that Meals-on-Wheels has on the seniors they serve goes far beyond the wholesome meals provided. Daily friendly contact also provides important socialization for those who may be isolated with little or no connection to the outside world. Lives are often saved in the course of delivering meals when a person does not respond to a knock on the door, has fallen or may have become ill. For over 53 years, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. has contributed to the overall well-being of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with a caring volunteer. Learn more at www.meals-on-wheels.org or call 800.5.SENIOR.
About Meals On Wheels Association of America:

The Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) is the only national organization and network dedicated solely to ending senior hunger in America. MOWAA is the oldest and largest organization composed of and representing local, community-based Senior Nutrition Programs in all 50 states as well as the U.S. territories.  MOWAA’s vision is to end senior hunger by 2020. To obtain more information about MOWAA or to locate a local Meals On Wheels program, visit the MOWAA website at www.mowaa.org.

 In celebration of the Subaru Share the Love Event happening at Subaru dealerships throughout the country, 13 of San Diego’s top food trucks will be on-site serving gourmet meals to hungry patrons. In addition, each food vendor will be donating 20 percent of the day’s proceeds to help feed homebound San Diego seniors. Last year’s Share the Love campaign drew large crowds and supported Meals-on-Wheels in raising over $15,000. Some of the food trucks include: Inslider, Food Farm, Sweet Treats, New York on Rye and Groggy’s, among several other popular and notable local trucks.

WHEN:                Tuesday, Dec. 4 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

 WHERE:              Kearny Mesa Subaru, 4797 Convoy, San Diego, CA 92111

MEDIA NOTE:  Meals-on-Wheels has a chance to earn an extra $35,000, from a special grant, IF they garner media coverage (per a national grant that are trying to win). By sending out a photographer or crew, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego can get extra needed dollars that it desperately needs to cover holiday meals.

During election years, non-profit donations decrease as people tighten their purse strings waiting to see what happens with leadership. Now, more than ever, Meals-on-Wheels needs the additional funds after seeing a decrease in donations during Q4.

 WHY:                    Meals-on-Wheels, Greater San Diego contributes to the overall well-being of homebound seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with a caring volunteer. Meals-on-Wheels delivers two meals a day, for seven days a week (including holidays) throughout San Diego County from San Ysidro to Oceanside. The impact that Meals-on-Wheels has on the people it serves goes far beyond the wholesome meals it provides. Volunteers also provide a safety check to ensure that senior clients are safe and well. Without continued meal delivery, many seniors would not have a connection to the outside world. Funds raised will directly benefit programs that support Meals-on-Wheels and the seniors of the San Diego community.

 When Pita Jungle in Hillcrest approached CEO/President of Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc., Debbie Case, to partner during the holidays, Debbie jumped right in, excited to team up with a restaurant sharing Meals-on-Wheels’ values. “With our focus on serving healthy foods to our seniors, Pita Jungle is just the right restaurant for us!”

In addition to the financial support, Pita Jungle is inviting their guests to drop-off warm winter items for their “Warm Wishes” initiative in which they will collect scarves, socks and blankets to give to seniors to keep them warm during the cold winter months. To encourage their patrons to support Meals-on-Wheels, Pita Jungle is offering a free small dip with entrée purchase for those who donate an item.

Proceeds will help Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego continue to support the independence of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with caring volunteers. In some instances, this is the only contact these seniors receive, which is essential to their overall well-being.

 # # #

 About Meals-On-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc.:

The impact that Meals-on-Wheels has on the seniors they serve goes far beyond the wholesome meals provided. Daily friendly contact also provides important socialization for those who may be isolated with little or no connection to the outside world. Lives are often saved in the course of delivering meals when a person does not respond to a knock on the door, has fallen or may have become ill. For over 52 years, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. has contributed to the overall well-being of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with a caring volunteer. Learn more at www.meals-on-wheels.org or call 800.5.SENIOR.

About Pita Jungle: 1045 University Ave San Diego, CA 91105

With “The art of eating healthy” as their slogan, Pita Jungle’s concept is based on offering a healthful and natural cuisine abounding with vegetarian and vegan options, crafted within the principles of the Mediterranean diet. The menu flourishes with items that seek to balance greens, grains, legumes, meats, and fruits. In addition to simple preparation, the quality of the food is due to fresh ingredients that are put together daily, from scratch. Pita Jungle opened in May 2012 in the renovated Charles Jurman Building of the Hillcrest neighborhood, a historic building which has since been meticulously restored to its original exterior design. The historic landmark boasts a unique atmosphere complementing the restaurant’s vibe. Embodied by the dynamism of the staff, local art rotations adorning the walls, and an eclectic blend of music ranging from classic to Cuban, Jazz to Indy, Pita Jungle has evoked a cult-like admiration that is easy to embrace. Follow Pita Jungle San Diego on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pita-Jungle-San-Diego/201638886558380. For more information and full list of nutritional values, visit their website at www.pitajungle.com.

 Head to any of the following Souplantation locations on September 10, 2012 from 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., mention Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, and Souplantation will donate 20% of the proceeds from your meal to support San Diego seniors!*

• Kearny Mesa Souplantation
  • 7095 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92111-1002USA
• Point Loma Souplantation
  • 3960 West Point Loma Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92110USA
• Mission Gorge Souplantation
  • 6171 Mission Gorge Road, San Diego, CA 92120USA
• Mira Mesa Souplantation
  • 8105 Mira Mesa Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92126-2601USA
• Del Mar Souplantation
  • 3804 Valley Centre Drive, San Diego, CA 92130-2331USA
• Rancho Bernardo Souplantation
  • 17210 Bernardo Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92128USA
• Encinitas Souplantation
  • 109 North El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024USA
• Chula Vista Souplantation
  • 1810 Main Court, Chula Vista, CA 91911USA
• Escondido Souplantation
  • 1260 Auto Pkwy, Suite A&B, Escondido, CA 92029USA
• La Mesa Souplantation
  • 9158 Fletcher Parkway, La Mesa, CA 91942-3424USA
• Vista Souplantation
  • 1860 University Drive, Vista, CA 92083-7700USA
• Carlsbad Souplantation
  • 1860 Marron Road, Carlsbad, CA 92008-1172USA

Proceeds will help Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego continue to support the independence of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with caring volunteers. In some instances, this is the only contact these seniors receive, which is essential to their overall well-being.

*Souplantation patrons must purchase a full-priced meal and beverage in order for 20% of the proceeds to be donated to Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego. Proceeds will not be donated in conjunction with the use of other deals or coupons.

 # # #

About Meals-On-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc.:

The impact that Meals-on-Wheels has on the seniors they serve goes far beyond the wholesome meals provided. Daily friendly contact also provides important socialization for those who may be isolated with little or no connection to the outside world. Lives are often saved in the course of delivering meals when a person does not respond to a knock on the door, has fallen or may have become ill. For over 52 years, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. has contributed to the overall well-being of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with a caring volunteer. Learn more at www.meals-on-wheels.org or call 800.5.SENIOR.

About Souplantation

Celebrating over 30 years, Souplantation was founded in 1978 in San Diego and currently operates 125 salad buffet-style restaurants across the western, southern and eastern portions of the United States. Souplantation creates an exceptional, all-you-care-to-eat dining experience with a daily selection of made-from-scratch soups and salads and hand-crafted muffins, focaccia, breads and tasty desserts. By combining high-quality, farm-fresh and scratch-made foods for a fixed price, the restaurants provide guests with the freedom to create their own wholesome meals. The restaurant concept is built around fresh prepared, great-tasting recipes with a salad bar full of seasonal vegetables and tossed salads prepared exhibition-style every 20 minutes. Souplantation restaurants are open daily for lunch and dinner. For more information, visit www.souplantation.com.

Meals-on-Wheels’ Meal Transport Vans

San Diego, CA (August 7, 2012) – Meals-on-Wheels (MOW) Greater San Diego, Inc. is proud to announce the second year of the Ford Motor Company Fund, which will subsidize fuel for the charity’s vans. Ford will be funding fuel expenses for the non-profit’s meal transport vans, a total of $31,500, for this next fiscal year.

The contribution – part of Ford’s “Operation Goodwill” program – was announced at MOW’s annual gala, Bootleggers’ Ball, on June 30.  The Fund has offered to fund the MOW fuel costs for the next 12 months.

“The Ford Motor Company Fund is proud to provide the fuel for this great program in San Diego,” said Doug Davis, general manager for Kearny Pearson Ford. “We are all very pleased to be a part of the effort that makes this service available to seniors in need locally. With the rising costs of fuel today, we hope this will aid in Meals-on-Wheels’ ability to keep the program reaching the areas of most need.”

This specific contribution was especially well received by MOW as the country’s economic downturn and rising oil costs have made it more difficult to raise money to continue feeding the community’s homebound and other hungry seniors locally.

“We see many of our clients daily with the delivery of their meals,” said Debbie Case, CEO of MOW. “With this significant donation from the Ford Motor Company Fund, we can ensure our vans are able to keep these important appointments all throughout the year.”

# # #

 About Meals-On-Wheels, Greater San Diego:

The impact that Meals-on-Wheels has on the people it serves goes far beyond the wholesome meals it provides. Meals-on-Wheels’ staff and its volunteers often develop friendships with the seniors as well as providing regular nutrition and daily contact. In addition to the meals, volunteers also provide a safety check, to ensure that senior clients are safe and well. Without continued meal delivery, many seniors would not have a connection to the outside world. For the last 50 years, Meals-on-Wheels, Greater San Diego has and continues to contribute to the overall well-being of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with a caring volunteer. Learn more at www.meals-on-wheels.org or call (800) 5 SENIOR.

About Operation Goodwill:

Operation Goodwill is the San Diego County Ford Dealers’ charitable giving program, operated by the Ford Motor Company Fund. The San Diego County Ford Dealers identified four focus areas for their philanthropic efforts in 2011, based on real concerns impacting San Diegans across the county. Operation Goodwill San Diego is focused on Education, Disaster Readiness, Military/Veterans Outreach and Critical Health/Wellness Issues.

About Ford Motor Company:

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego announces special sweepstakes to win an evening with Bill Goldberg at their Bootlegger’s Ball on June 30, 2012

SAN DIEGO / Bill Goldberg, former WWE and WWC World Champion wrestler, famous for his rapid success in World Champion Wrestling and his roles in movies and on TV, is lending his muscle to help end senior hunger.

“Real strength lies in making a powerful difference in this world”, says Goldberg. “Mega strength comes from true caring for others.”

Goldberg is supporting Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego’s efforts to provide meals for San Diego’s homebound seniors. For more than 52 years, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego has been delivering daily meals to seniors who cannot go out to the store or cook for themselves throughout San Diego County. They are often frail and isolated. Many times, the only thing stopping these homebound seniors from having to go to a nursing home are the meals that Meals-on-Wheels delivers and the friendly, caring visit of the Meals-on-Wheels volunteer.

Goldberg is inviting you to join him in the fight against senior hunger. The championship wrestler says, “I’d like you to really own your strength and help me support Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego. I’m undefeated and my next opponent is senior hunger and isolation.” He is offering a chance to win an ‘Evening with Bill Goldberg’ at Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego’s Bootlegger’s Ball on June 30, 2012 at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina.

“Now I’m putting my money where my mouth is,” Goldberg says.

In order to enter the Sweepstakes for a chance to win an ‘Evening with Bill Goldberg,’visit to Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego’s Facebook page. Visitors must click the sweepstakes picture of Bill Goldberg, like the page, and enter the free drawing to win two tickets to the Meals-on-Wheels’ Bootlegger’s Ball. The winner will be selected by random drawing and notified on June 18. Winners will be a special guest at this roaring 1920s party where they will meet Bill Goldberg.

There are over 100,000 senior citizens in San Diego alone who are going hungry, and they need Meals-on-Wheel not only for a warm dinner, but a warm hug. So, step up and show your real strength. Get involved with Meals on Wheels Greater San Diego …and show your power!

Watch the following YouTube video for more information about the contest from Goldberg himself: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAIZnNAqdHg&feature=youtube_gdata_player

MEDIA CONTACT
Sara Wacker, APR

c3 Communications, Inc.
(858) 794-6974
sara@c3publicrelations.com

Chef Isabel Cruz – Barrio Star

Since opening her first restaurant, Mission Cafe in 1990, Chef Cruz has taken the San Diego restaurant scene by storm. Isabel now has four restaurants in the San Diego area, and three restaurants in Oregon. Offering a little bit of everything for everyone, you are sure to find something to excite your palate at a Cruz restaurant. Visit Isabel’s Cantina in Pacific Beach for a healthy fusion of Latin and Asian fare, Coffee Cup in La Jolla for low-carb, power menu breakfast specialties, Seaside Cantina for breakfast or lunch while people watching on Ocean Front Boardwalk in Pacific Beach, and/or her latest venture, Barrio Star, featuring fresh and creative spins on traditional Mexican cuisine. Check out Isabel’s website: http://www.isabelscantina.com/

Chef Colin Murray – Brooklyn Girl Eatery

Executive Chef Colin Murray is working together with his kitchen team to display his skills and style of cuisine. Before coming to Brooklyn Girl, Murray was the sous chef at Cowboy Star in the East Village where he put out some innovative dishes and tasty menus. He has also held similar positions at various other restaurants in San Diego such as Parallel 33 in Mission Hills and Croce’s Downtown San Diego. Chef Colin Murray was classically trained at the top culinary school in America, CIA (Culinary Institute of America) which has inspired excellence in the culinary world.

Visit Brooklyn Girl Eatery: http://brooklyngirleatery.com/index.html

Chef Andrew Sasloe – The Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant

For over two decades, Chef Andrew Sasloe has been serving delicious cuisine to San Diegans. Driven by a passion that began in early childhood, Sasloe’s culinary experiences have taken him to fine dining establishments all over the San Diego region. From a position as a chef at the Catamaran Resort Hotel, he proceeded to become the Executive Chef at Sammy’s California Woodfire Pizza and then Sfuzzi’s Inc., both located in La Jolla.

Chef Sasloe joined The Cosmopolitan Hotel and Restaurant in September, 2011. “I’m excited to be working at this beautiful historic property, where we are growing our own fruits and herbs, making recipes from scratch, serving hand-crafted drinks—where we have the creative ability to do special dinners and wine events,” said Sasloe.

After a $6.5 million dollar rehabilitation and restoration “The Cosmo” houses a full-service restaurant and bar and is the only hotel in San Diego’s Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. The hotel and restaurant reopened one year ago July 27, 2011, featuring indoor and patio dining, open seven days a week: http://oldtowncosmopolitan.com/

Chef Mike Lina – Crush Solana Beach

Chef Michael Lina was born and raised in the Philippines. While growing up, he started cooking at the age of 13 alongside his aunt and grandma.  This is where he found his passion for food. Michael migrated to the United States at the age of 20 in 1997.  After completing the extremely competitive culinary school program at Chico University, Michael moved down to San Diego and began working for Azul La Jolla (a Brigantine Group flagship restaurant) in 2004.  He was hired as a line cook and then became sous chef under the guidance of Chef Orion Balliet. As a second job he also worked as a head cook at the University of San Diego, California.  There he prepared private events for people such as the Princess of Thailand, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and other recognized artists and celebrities.   In 2007, Chef Michael landed his first executive chef position at the Marriott in Los Angeles, California.  There he helped take the Food & Beverage ranking from 328 to the top 50 in the country.  In 2010, he became the Executive Chef for Doubletree, and then in 2011 he was offered the position of Executive Chef for Crush Italian Cuisine in Solana Beach.  Here at Crush Chef Michael has been creatively crafting delicious dishes that boast wonderful Italian flavors.  Crush changes the menu with the seasons and proudly supports local organic ingredients and sustainable agriculture. Try Crush Solana Beach for yourself today! http://solanabeachcrush.com/

Chef Bernard Guillas – The Marine Room

Originally from Brittany, France, Chef Bernard Guillas has found himself right at home in La Jolla, Ca as executive chef of the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club. Since 1994, Guillas has utilized the fresh produce and seafood found in the coastal town in all three of the restaurants he manages throughout the resort. Bernard, no stranger to classic tradition, insists, “a good cook is a sorcerer who dispenses happiness on a plate.” For this chef, it is the magic of adding unusual seasonings to titillate the palate. He learned his alchemy early. Born into a family of butchers, bakers, and restaurateurs, Guillas’ Britannic upbringing was influenced by his daily exposure to fine cuisine. Selected as San Diego’s “Best Chef” many times, join Chef Bernard at The Marine Room for a taste of what makes him one of the best, or find him at The Bootleggers’ Ball for a special offering of Hokto-Kinoko Organic King Oyster Mushroom Bisque with Truffle Gnocchi, Brandt Farm Beef Bacon and a 20-Year-Old Ambrosante Foam. Visit Chef Bernard’s website: http://chefbernard.com/

Chef Rich Huarte – New York on Rye

Chef Rich Huarte, whose life-long vocation includes stints as an executive chef in four star venues across New York City, co-founded New York on Rye with friend Jay, a real estate and finance executive turned food entrepreneur. Their long-standing friendship and passion for food goes back to their early college days. Both considered concepts for a food truck for a while, but New York on Rye was eventually created because the two felt San Diego just didn’t do authentic New York deli right! New York on Rye delivers deli like you’ve never had it. Homemade, handmade, from scratch. They make their own mustards, dressings,  horseradish, fries, and provide only the best locally available meats, cheeses, vegetables.

Chef Rich and partner Jay have been wonderful supporters of Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego through their participation in our regular Food Truck Wars, and their regular lunch service at our metro offices every Friday. Chef Huarte even delivered meals for Meals-on-Wheels while in his twenties! “This is a fantastic cause we really believe in.”

Visit New York on Rye’s website now so you can find out where they are and try them yourself today: http://newyorkonrye.com/

Chef Michael Jacobs – Proud Mary’s Southern Bar and Grill

Chef Michael Jacobs can be found riding the range at Proud Mary’s Southern Bar & Grill at the Kearny Mesa Ramada, where he serves up fine, fun food. Chef Jacobs is a graduate from California Culinary Academy. He began his career as a pastry chef, and  then became a caterer. He has completed 18 different menu designs, and has worked in Cleveland, Dallas, Austin and San Francisco.

Here in San Diego, Chef Michael took over Proud Mary’s after Franky Terzoli of Top Chef Season 2 moved to Korea. Michael took over the Cajun menu, keeping the Cajun theme, and tweaking it to reflect his style. You can truly feel Chef Jacobs’ humor in the delightfully delicious sounding menu item he plans to present at this year’s gala: a bayou alligator with andouie sausage over red beans and rice served with Proud Mary’s bourbon slushee.

Visit Proud Mary’s Facebook page to see what they are up to: www.facebook.com/pages/Proud-Marys-at-the-Ramada

Chef Charles Andres – Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine

After spending many years working in Roy’s kitchens, Chef Charles Andres shares that he is proud to be a part of Roy’s newest creation – Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine. He invites those with a passion for Pacific Rim Cuisine to join him in sampling their new menu, featuring a great blend of signature dishes from items previously found on Roy’s menu, combined with exciting new creations never before seen at Roy’s. He believes you’ll find that their passion for great food comes through on every item. Enjoy Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific Rim Cuisine: http://www.roysrestaurant.com/locations/ca/la_jolla.asp

Chef Jeff Rossman – Terra American Bistro

Terra Restaurant was in Hillcrest from May 1998 to April 2011. Terra has since moved to the East College District of San Diego to bring farm to table dining to the east county. Chef Jeff Rossman’s commitment to local, sustainable agriculture and the bounty of San Diego and Riverside Counties not only shows in his cookbook “From Terra’s Table,” but also in the plates coming out of the kitchen. The restaurant’s focus on local, sustainable and organic extends to the bar as well, which features seasonal fruit and herb-infused vodkas made in house, an interesting array of local craft beers and a wine list that offers more than 80 bottles of mostly California wines. The cuisine at Terra has been labeled as New American food with an emphasis on ingredients and preparation styles from North, South and Central America. Whether you are joining Chef Rossman for a special night out, a light lunch, a few Terra Specialty Cocktails or a Chef’s Farm To Table Dinner, the staff at Terra is confident you’ll feel right at home at Terra American Bistro. The restaurant interior is a very comfortable atmosphere with polished concrete, a wall garden, brick, wooden beams and a captivating chandelier over the Chef’s communal farm table. Visit Terrra American Bistro: http://www.terrasd.com/

Top of the Market – Chef Information Coming soon!

Visit  Top of the Market in the meantime.

Chef Julie Weiss – The Wild Thyme Company

Born and raised in a small town in Minnesota, Julie Weiss moved to San Diego 17 years ago to experience a new culture and immediately found herself falling in love with California cuisine! Inspired by the variety of flavors, styles and boundless agricultural possibilities, Julie quickly wound up in a chef coat working alongside Chef Dawn Parks at the Salk Institute café (run at the time by The Wild Thyme Company Catering). Julie’s experience running the café in addition to her side work of selling home-baked goods to local businesses equipped her with adept culinary skills as well as the ability to be adaptable and creative.  Julie has worked with The Wild Thyme Company for six years, bringing a passion for food as well as a cheerful attitude to the kitchen side of catering and event planning each and every day! Julie loves the fast pace and the challenge of being a chef and dreams of one day opening a delicious taco food truck in Minnesota – she would love to bring the best of San Diego back home! When she’s not busy leading her wonderful crew at work, Chef Julie is probably walking her dog Melody, preparing amazing food for her vegan boyfriend Roger, or our enjoying all that San Diego has to offer! Check out what Chef Julie is planning next: The Wild Thyme Company.

SURPRISE CHEF – ???

Join us at the gala to find out who will be cooking up a special mystery dish at the Superhero Soirée on July 20, 2013!

San Diego, CA (February 7, 2012) – Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, supporters of independence and well-being of seniors, received a $2,500 grant from the Escondido Rotary Club on January 31 to support meals for seniors in the Escondido area.

Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. is committed to reducing the isolation experienced by so many elderly.  Meals are delivered to seniors’ homes by volunteers.  Frequently the volunteer may be the only person the senior sees all day, providing human contact and a safety net, particularly for those seniors living alone.

For more details about Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. please visit www.meals-on-wheels.org or call (800) 5-SENIOR.

###

About Meals-On-Wheels, Greater San Diego:

The impact that Meals-on-Wheels has on the people it serves goes far beyond the wholesome meals it provides. Meals-on-Wheels’ staff and its volunteers often develop friendships with the seniors as well as providing regular nutrition and daily contact. In addition to the meals, volunteers also provide a safety check, to ensure that senior clients are safe and well. Without continued meal delivery, many seniors would not have a connection to the outside world. For over 50 years, Meals-on-Wheels Greater San Diego, Inc. has and continues to contribute to the overall well-being of seniors by providing regular nutrition and daily contact with a caring volunteer. Learn more at www.meals-on-wheels.org or call

800.5.SENIOR.