Area's Top Restaurants to Showcase Signature Dishes at Volunteer Lawyers for Justice's Annual Gala

Nov. 10, 2011 - PRLog -- Calling all foodies! Chefs from the area's finest restaurants will provide samplings of their signature dishes at the upcoming Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) annual "Arts & Eats for Justice Gala." This year, the list of participating restaurants has grown to feature even more renowned establishments. Newcomers include Martini 494 and Mix 27 of Newark, Senorita's Mexican Grill of Bloomfield, and Montclair's Tapastry and Church Street Catering.

"Through the years, the Gala has become a showcase of innovative cuisine from the region's top eateries," said Karen Sacks, Esq., Founding Executive Director of VLJ, a Newark-based nonprofit providing comprehensive pro bono legal services to low-income individuals in N.J.

"The diversity of offerings is second to none," continued Sacks. "Where else can you sample Italian, Mexican, Southern, American, Turkish, and Ethiopian cuisine all in one night? We are extremely grateful to all of the participating restaurants that make this evening a truly special event."

On December 6th, VLJ's 7th annual "Arts & Eats for Justice Gala" will take center stage at the Montclair Art Museum in Montclair, N.J. from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. The fundraiser also features live jazz and a silent auction. Event proceeds are earmarked for VLJ's programs, which include free legal counsel and advice; educational seminars on various legal matters including bankruptcy, family law, special education and consumer law; and direct representation for at-risk individuals facing critical civil legal issues.

Popular Eateries are Long-Time Supporters of VLJ

Since its inception, VLJ's annual "Arts & Eats for Justice Gala" has drawn the support of a vast number of popular establishments in the area, particularly those in Montclair.  Long-time participants from Montclair include Bistro 18, Lalezar, Mesob, Southern Belle, Terra at the Isabel Rose, and Trattoria Rustica. Dedicated supporters also include Newark-based Hobby's Delicatessen and Restaurant, Cricket Hill Brewery of Fairfield, F&B Caterers of Bloomfield, and Shopper's Vineyard of Clifton.

"VLJ's Arts & Eats Gala is one of our "can't miss" social events each year," said George Kalivas, owner of Bistro 18, which is providing all of the food for the Gala's VIP Reception.

"We are extremely proud to support VLJ and its programs aiding the under-served in our communities. At Bistro 18, we make every effort to be a good neighbor and help those in need. It's at the heart of who we are. Volunteer Lawyers for Justice does just that every day through its pro bono legal work."

The Gala also serves as the ideal opportunity for VLJ to honor and recognize the efforts of its volunteers. This year, VLJ will present the Hon. Julien X. Neals with its "2011 Pro Bono Leader Award" and AT&T with its "2011 Pro Bono Award." VLJ's former parent, the Legal Services Foundation of Essex County will be presenting awards to Kenneth F. Kunzman, Esq. and Merck. Honorary Gala Chairs are Senator Frank Lautenberg and Senator Robert Menendez.

To purchase tickets to the Gala, please visit VLJ's web site at http://www.vljnj.org/. For more information on tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Tracy Nelson at tnelson@vljnj.org or 973-645-1951, ext. 109.

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About Volunteer Lawyers for Justice: Volunteer Lawyers for Justice (VLJ) provides comprehensive legal services to economically-disadvantaged adults, children, and families in New Jersey to ensure fair and equal treatment within the legal system. Programs include free legal counsel and advice, educational seminars on various legal matters, and direct representation for at-risk individuals facing critical civil legal issues. Established in 2001, VLJ has grown from a grass roots effort of 30 volunteer attorneys in Essex County to a state-wide 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation with six staff attorneys and more than 1,500 volunteer attorneys providing free legal services to thousands of clients each year.