Gourmet Chef’s Auction coming

It's the event known for enjoying fine foods while raising funds for a good cause.

The 13th Annual Gourmet Chef's Auction held at the Best Western Culpeper Inn and sponsored by the Friends of Services to Abused Families, Inc. kicks off next week.

The four-hour event starts at 6 p.m. Oct. 18 and includes tasting an array of foods prepared by local restaurateurs while taking part in a live auction.

SAFE is a non-profit organization that "provides a safe haven and support services for domestic violence victims and their children."

With the recent cuts in state funding, Event Chairwoman Julie Yowell says the SAFE house depends on successful events like the Gourmet Chef's Auction to underwrite its programs.

"It's really important that we make everybody aware," Yowell said Saturday morning. "Your participation will help support this important work."

Executive Director of SAFE, Melissa DeDomenico-Payne echoed Yowell's plea.

"It's just a blessing every year that we receive funding to help make our budget happen where grants cannot," said DeDomenico-Payne.

She also shared her appreciation for the community for its monetary and overall support.

Last year, the Friends of SAFE raised more than $22,000 during its 12th annual Chef's Auction thanks to donations and ticket sales.

SAFE serves Culpeper, Orange, Madison, Fauquier and Rappahannock counties.

During the auction, guests will enjoy food from participating restaurants including: Chili's, The County Club, Greenock House Inn in Orange, Luigi's Italian Restaurant, Thyme Market, Pancho Villa Mexican Restaurant, Thai Culpeper, Elmwood at Sparks in Orange, Foti's and many more, according to Yowell.

Guest judges will choose the best appetizer, best hot and cold foods, best dessert and best overall.

Rhonda Simmons can be reached at 825-0771 ext. 125 or .

Want to go-
What: 13th Annual Gourmet Chef's Auction
When: Oct. 18, 6 to 10 p.m.
Where: Best Western Culpeper
Cost: $25 per ticket
Entertainment: Possum Ridge String Band

For ticket information call Maria Fay of Signature Realty at 829-8110 or Julie Yowell at 672-1825.
If you want to make a donation, make checks payable to Services to Abused Families, Inc., and mail them to Signature Realty at 1300 Sunset Lane, Suite 3220, Culpeper, VA 22701. Attention: Chef's Auction.