Theo's Celebrates Second Anniversary Helping Art Institute Students with Chili Challenge Fundraiser

Jan. 31, 2012 - PRLog -- Contact: Jeff Elbel, jeffe023@msn.com 503-709-1863,    
at Theo’s, 503-226-2828; or Sally Folkestad, shf Marketing,    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
s.folkestad@comcast.net 503-830-0173    January 30, 2012

PORTLAND, Ore. – After two years in business on Northwest 5th Avenue in Old Town/Chinatown, Jeff Elbel can’t seem to take off more than one day a week.  Thankfully, Theo’s, his neighborhood grill, has kept him very busy - a challenge he welcomes, as he’s works through a tough economy to build a thriving business.  It’s also what makes partnering again with the Art Institute of Portland to fund scholarships even more meaningful.  

During Theo’s Chili Week, February 27- March 3, 10% of every order will be donated to the Creative Arts Scholarship Fund.  Students from The International Culinary School at AI will submit their recipes in Theo’s Chili Challenge, and treat Theo’s guests to Free tastings.  When guests vote on their favorite, they’ll get a  Free Cup of Chili of their choice with their order.  Theo’s specializes in grilled sandwiches, all natural beef burgers, Phillies, salads, Hand-cut fries, and late-night indulgences, which are all waiting for a chili pairing.

“It’s important to me to support those that are working to make a living and juggle doing something they love,” says Jeff.  Theo’s raised over $650 for the Art Institute during their first anniversary week in December 2010.  He worked with Chrissy Purcell, Scholarship Coordinator at AI to pair funds from the student-run Sharp restaurant, to create the inaugural Theo’s and Sharp Culinary Scholarship.  “I’m thrilled to partner with Theo’s again,” Chrissy said.  “We value opportunities to connect with local businesses and support student success.  Jeff has always valued our scholarship efforts and we’re grateful for such a rich relationship.”  Last August, they awarded the first scholarship to Jesse Moore, a full-time culinary student.

The scholarship came at the right time for Jesse, who’s working on his BS in Culinary Management with a minor in sustainability.  Hoping to pay for school without the burden of borrowing money, he had to take a break from his studies to work full-time to pay for school.  “The scholarship has essentially paid for an entire term of my education.  I’m extremely thankful not only for the money, but also for the daily reminder that hard work pays off, and that there are people in my community who fully support my efforts to reach for my dreams.”  Jesse is focused with great intent to graduate with honors; and after gaining vital hands-on experience in the Portland restaurant scene, he plans to open a restaurant on his own with an emphasis on cheese.

Theo’s has benefitted greatly from their partnership with the Art Institute, by adding staff from the culinary program, and serving more guests from the school.  Jeff believes in supporting local businesses and education.  “Its’ a huge priority.  In this case, they’re our neighbors.  We get to help them build their basic culinary skills and help them financially.  My hope is to raise even more this year to serve even more students.”

Theo’s serves hearty and honest food at wallet-friendly prices.  Freshly grilled, all natural Painted Hills beef burgers, Philly steaks and other tasty sandwiches are their specialty; but there’s something for every taste bud, including salads, Hand-cut fries with house-made dipping sauces, breakfast from $2.95 and wafflewiches.  They proudly feature Tillamook Cheddar Cheese, Vermont Maple Cream, Portland French Bakery Breads, Laurel’s Gluten-Free Italian Rolls, and Garden Burgers. Theo’s has Free Wi-Fi, located at 121 NW 5th Avenue.  Open six days a week, including late night Fridays and Saturdays, with boxed lunches, catering and free delivery options.  Get the full menu at theospdx.com and follow us on Facebook.