August 25, 2016 | Jewish News

On Monday, Sept. 19, Chefs Reva Constantine (Great Lakes Culinary Center), Derik Watson (Bistro 82) and Sarah Welch (Republic Tavern) will compete in an exciting culinary battle that will test their cooking creativity and skills. Like the television show MasterChef, these chefs will be presented with an assortment of ingredients and quick-fire challenges. Michelle Bommarito, a local accomplished chef and TV/radio personality, will emcee. All proceeds benefit the Friendship Circle, which provides programs and services to individuals with special needs. The event starts at 7 p.m. at the Friendship Circle’s Soul Center and Soul Cafe, an art gallery and restaurant in West Bloomfield staffed by young adults with special needs. Tickets are $75. In addition to the competition, guests will enjoy desserts, interactive cooking demonstrations, question-and-answer sessions with the guest chefs as well as a silent auction. Those making a donation of $200 or more will serve as sous chefs and assist the chefs during the competition. Audience members will also bid on the opportunity to taste the dishes and select the winner. The event is hosted by Jennifer Lovy, parent of a 10-year-old with autism who has been participating in Friendship Circle programs since age 2. The Lovy family has raised approximately $50,000 for the organization out of gratitude for the support and services it provides to local families living with a child with special needs. Space is limited. Register online at friendshipcircle.org/masterchef. Event sponsors are Event Bliss, Miller Canfield and Masserman Photography. *