10th Anniversary Dinner for a Better New York

OUR MISSION

We drive scalable solutions to transform the lives of people with disabilities, people in poverty and people facing homelessness: solutions that contribute to righting societal imbalances.

OUR VISION

We envision a city where everyone has a roof over their head, is healthy, productive and can enjoy the social connections that create a life of purpose. We’re a nonprofit with a staff of 1,800 that provides more than $270 million in services. Our efforts are supported by various local, state and federal government entities as well as foundations, corporations and individual donors. Most importantly, our vision allows us to deliver the same quality of services to one individual or to thousands. No challenge is beyond our scope.

OUR UNIQUENESS

Our uniqueness lies in our ability to take what we learn on the ground and use it to change systems and impact policy. By delivering high quality services that address the complex circumstances of each person, we help transform lives, improve neighborhoods and boost future generations.

WHY WE’RE HERE

At S:US, we don’t prescribe paths that define people but offer solutions that support each person’s definition of a life of purpose. When you look closely, the injustices facing our society are really a universe of highly individual obstacles. When an individual’s life is put on hold for circumstances unique to them, establishing a relationship with them is step one. It’s our guide to the services we provide. The results: Individuals and families no longer limited by their obstacles but propelled by opportunities for a richer experience with the world. A ripple effect that extends from individuals out into their communities.

This is how we beat back stigma.

This is how we build communities.

This is how we create Opportunity for All

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

A MESSAGE FROM

John McKesson Chair, Board of Directors

Perry Perlmutter President and CEO

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for joining us at our 10th Anniversary Dinner for a Better New York. It fills us with joy to celebrate the outstanding contributions of tonight’s Honorees, Barbara Lehrer, President and CEO of The Beacon Group, and Samantha Magistro, CEO of Bronx Pro Group, who tirelessly champion our mission. We are also immensely thankful to our dedicated Board of Directors, particularly Andrew Zimmern, our esteemed chefs, donors, and all who have made this evening possible.

For over 46 years, S:US has been steadfastly dedicated to ensuring Opportunity For All, providing essential supports, services, treatment, shelters, and housing for some of the most vulnerable individuals and families in New York City and Long Island. More recently, S:US has increased its focus on food security by expanding Urban Farms, creating Community Fridges, and initiating a Food Tote Delivery program. Our committed staff works tirelessly, partnering with those we serve to empower them with the skills needed to overcome life’s challenges. Presently, S:US serves and supports over 37,000 New Yorkers in need, guiding them as they embark on transformative journeys, with our commitment to growth and enhancement ever stronger.

Embedded within the communities we serve, S:US plays a crucial role in fostering a city where all New Yorkers, regardless of circumstance, can lead purposeful lives. The people we serve include survivors of domestic violence, individuals experiencing homelessness, those living in poverty, veterans facing homelessness and other challenges, individuals dealing with mental health and substance use issues, people with developmental disabilities, and those living with HIV/AIDS. S:US stands as a dedicated partner, empowering individuals to realize their fullest potential. The successes we have achieved thus far inspire us to reach for an even greater impact. Therefore, we invite all New Yorkers—the business community, civic groups, neighborhoods, foundations, and compassionate individuals—to join us in our New Yorkers Standing Together, S:US’ Social Justice Campaign (pages 18-19). Being part of S:US and supporting our endeavors presents an opportunity for all of us to address societal injustices and become catalysts for positive change.

New Yorkers Standing Together propels S:US toward its vision of a city where every individual has a place to call home, enjoys good health, contributes meaningfully, and participates in social engagement. It fosters opportunities for ALL New Yorkers to thrive, embodying the spirit of resilience and cooperation that defines our city. As New Yorkers, we firmly believe that no challenge is insurmountable when we unite in purpose. We extend our profound appreciation to all who generously support S:US’ indispensable work.

TONIGHT’S FOOD OFFERINGS CURATED BY Andrew Zimmern

Host, Dinner for a Better New York

Andrew Zimmern is an Emmy-winning and four-time James Beard Award-winning TV personality, chef, writer and passionate global citizen. As the creator, executive producer and host of the Bizarre Foods franchise, Andrew Zimmern’s Driven by Food, What’s Eating America, Emmy-nominated Family Dinner, Wild Game Kitchen and the Emmy-winning The Zimmern List, he has devoted his life to exploring and promoting cultural acceptance, tolerance and understanding through food. You can also find him judging Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend on Netflix, The Silos Baking Competition on HBO Max and mentoring young chefs on Food Network’s All Star Academy. Later this year, he will premiere Andrew Zimmern’s Field to Fire. He has written four books, including the Ippy Gold Medal award-winning AZ and the Lost City of Ophir. Andrew is the founder and chairman of Intuitive Content, named one of the top 100 production companies in the world by Realscreen, and Passport Hospitality, a restaurant and food service development company. He is passionate about his philanthropic endeavors and sits on the boards of Services for the UnderServed, EXPLR Media, Soigne Hospitality, Giving Kitchen and Beans is How. He is on the advisory boards of Procure Impact and the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project, and serves on City Harvest’s Food Council. Andrew is a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations World Food Programme and The Nature Conservancy, and is the International Rescue Committee’s Voice for Nutrition. He is a founding member of the Coalition for Sustainable Aquaculture and the Independent Restaurant Coalition.

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

TONIGHT’S PROGRAM

WELCOME

ANDREW ZIMMERN

TV Personality and Chef Member, Board of Directors, S:US

LIVE AUCTION

JOHN MCKESSON

Chair, Board of Directors, S:US

BARBARA LEHRER

Honoree

President and CEO, The Beacon Group

PERRY PERLMUTTER

President & CEO, S:US

SUSAN STOCKMAR

2024 Andrew Zimmern Award Winner

ANDREW ZIMMERN

PETER MAGISTRO

Founder of Bronx Pro and CEO of Home Builders

ARLO CHASE

Senior VP, Real Estate Development, S:US

SAMANTHA MAGISTRO

Honoree CEO, Bronx Pro Group

TONIGHT’S HONOREE

Barbara Lehrer

President & CEO, The Beacon Group

“Make your own rose garden!” Her mother’s words have become a credo for Barbara Lehrer, dynamic founder of The Beacon Group. But Barbara also believes in creating opportunities for those who cannot grow their own roses without help.

Like her mother, a graduate of Hofstra University, Barbara Lehrer has been a practicing speech pathologist for more than 40 years. In the early days, she traveled to serve children and adults with speech and language problems wherever speech therapy was needed-from the tenements of Brooklyn to affluent Long Island suburbs.

Like most visionaries, Barbara looked beyond the day-to-day limits of established systems of care. Her company’s mission reflects Barbara’s energetic approach to challenging problems. In 2006, although already engrossed in providing clinical services, Barbara identified a need to train and staff Direct Support Professionals in Group Homes and Community settings. Not looking to be a typical staffing agency, Barbara was adamant that all of Beacon’s Direct Support staff be thoroughly trained and certified to ensure that the Individuals received the best care and support. With humble beginnings, providing Direct Support Staff to only a handful of sites, Barbara has built up her Direct Care Staffing program to over 500 active members that are deployed throughout the 5 boroughs, Long Island and Westchester County.

Barbara believes in giving back. In recognition of her mother’s influence on her life and career, Barbara established the Sylvia Martin Memorial Scholarship, awarded to law, speech or audiology students of Hofstra University who are themselves challenged. To be sure, the future looks bright for Barbara Lehrer as leader in the healthcare field. But thanks to her dedication to creative healthcare solutions, the outlook is a great deal more optimistic for thousands with disabilities as well.

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

TONIGHT’S HONOREE

Samantha Magistro CEO, Bronx Pro Group

Samantha Magistro, Chief Executive Officer, began her professional career at Bronx Pro in 2000 as an intern. After four years of working on tax credit compliance, Samantha joined the company full-time to work on the University Macombs Apartments project as an Assistant Project Manager. While pursuing post-graduate studies at Columbia, Samantha remained active in her field, interning at the Manhattan’s Borough President’s Office and holding a part-time position as a Project Manager at Enterprise Community Partners. Samantha returned to Bronx Pro full time in August 2008 to lead real estate development. Samantha has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Barnard College and a Master of Science in Urban Planning from Columbia University. She is also an active board member of the Supportive Housing Network of New York, the DreamYard Project, Citizen’s Housing and Planning Council and the Foundation for Bronx Community College.

for Making This Evening Truly Memorable

CO-CHAIRS

Josh Bider

Erin Felker Bond

Linda Nguyen

Jen Press Marden

Gail McCallion

Deborah Wolfe

Members, Board of Directors, S:US

THE CHEFS

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

List as of May 22, 2024

PRINCIPAL

UNDERWRITERS

PATRONS

ERIN AND PETER FRIEDLAND

JEN AND JAMES MARDEN

MARIE ISABELLE PALACIOS HARDY

SANDRA STARK AND JIM MERSFELDER

THANK YOU TO THIS EVENING’S

List as of May 22, 2024

ERIN FELKER BOND & WILLIAM OSBOURNE BOND

TERESA & LARRY HAMDAN JOHN MCKESSON SUPPORTERS

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

THANK YOU TO THIS EVENING’S BENEFACTORS

List updated post-event June 8, 2024

FRIENDS AND DONORS

Agape Plumbing & Heating

AKRF

Bradley Alperin

Andy Frain Services, Inc.

Apex Builders

Avante Contracting Corporation

BankUnited

Berlin Rosen

Josh Bider

Linda Blumkin & Greg Klurfeld

Bond Schoeneck & King, PLLC

Amelia Wright Brewer & Ty Brewer

Bright Power

Briscoe Protective Systems, Inc.

Earl Brown

C&S Pharmacy Consultants

Robert Catell

CB Emmanuel

Arlo Chase

Oscar Chase & Jane Monell Chase

Chase Community Development Banking

Chicago Title Insurance Company

Margaret Ann Cole

Donna Colonna

Community Care Rx

Curtis & Ginsberg

Edelman Sultan Knox Wood Architects

Art Edwards

Empire Office

Executive Pest Management

Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz

Melissa Garson

Heather Gershen

GKV Architects

Allen Hamdan

Hercules Corp.

Highpoint Property Group LLC

Hirschen Singer & Epstein LLP

Shimmie Horn

Ed and Fernanda Hubbard

Kiwi Partners / Steginsky Capital

L+M Development Partners

Peter Lattanzio

LCD Elevator Repair, Inc.

Jody Mansbach

Marvel Architects

Gail K. McCallion, Esq.

MDG Design & Construction LLC

MHH Clinical Services PLLC

Anthony Millimaci

Millin Associates

Courtney Morgan

Nadjete Natchaba

Netsmart Technologies

Linda Nguyen

Novick Edelstein Pomerantz PC

Gareth Old and Janine Tramontana

Erin Palmer

Perry Perlmutter

Carolyn Powell

Ride Health

Sasha-Marie Robinson, Ed.D, LCSW, MA

JoAnn Sacks

Monica Santos

Jean & Raymond V.J. Schrag

Sedgwick Pharmacy

Slate Property Group

Soloh Partners

Christine Soto

Evan Sullivan

Tandym Group

TD Bank

Total Care Rx

UKG

Uline

Vincent J DiCalogero CPA LLC’s

Doug and Bettina Walerstein

Weeks Lerman

Stacey Weston & Jean-Patrick Guilbert

Deborah Wolfe, Esq.

Xenolith Partners

2024 ANDREW ZIMMERN AWARD WINNER Susan Stockmar

This year’s Andrew Zimmern Award winner, Veteran Susan Stockmar, has faced unimaginable hardship, enormous loss, and considerable physical challenges. No matter the circumstances, Susan perseveres with determination, resilience, positivity, generosity, and optimism.

Susan served in the Navy from 1976 until 1981, when her daughter was born. After she left the military, she went to college and earned her bachelor’s degree. The Navy called her back in 1989, promoted her to Lieutenant Junior Grade, and spent 6 months in Kuwait helping to prepare for the Gulf War. Shortly after her discharge, her son was born.

Now a single mother of two, Susan moved to North Carolina where she owned a farm, which was destroyed by a tornado. She sold the land and moved to Florida. In 2005, Susan lost her home to Hurricane Gus and moved back to her hometown of NYC where she was diagnosed with spinal disease and cancer. She became wheelchair bound.

While in the hospital for spinal surgery, Susan received a voucher from the VA and was referred to S:US. S:US made sure that Susan’s new apartment was furnished and set up for her when she was released from the hospital. After seven years in her Brooklyn apartment, Susan moved to a new apartment in Queens, which was sold in 2023. Susan found herself homeless and living in her car. That’s when S:US stepped up again.

Due to her medical condition, which now included spinal fusion, cancer treatment, the replacement of both hips, arthritis, a benign brain tumor, and autoimmune disorder, shelter wasn’t a viable option. S:US found temporary placement for her in a hotel. Countless apartment opportunities fell through until she finally moved into her new apartment on Long Island in March this year. S:US provided some financial assistance, had movers get her belongings out of storage, and got her settled. Now that she had a stable place to recover, she was able to have her long-delayed knee replacement surgery on April 15.

Susan is now thriving in her new apartment and looks forward to resuming her volunteer activities with the USO and other veteran-related organizations. She’s overwhelmed by everything S:US has done to help her. “Without S:US, I wouldn’t have survived.”

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

TONIGHT’S AUCTIONEER

LUCAS HUNT is the president of HUNT Philanthropy and a celebrated American poet, whose published books include IOWA, HAMPTONS, and NEW YORK. Over the past 12 years, he has helped raise hundreds of millions of dollars for organizations like St. Jude, Make A Wish, American Cancer Society, and The Museum of African American History. He is a graduate of World Wide College of Auctioneering, and a Benefit Auction Specialist (BAS) with the National Auctioneer’s Association.

S:US BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DIRECTORS

John A. McKesson Chair

Gail K. McCallion, Esq. Vice Chair

Jacquie Holmes Secretary

Edward Hubbard Treasurer

MEMBERS

Josh Bider

Erin Felker Bond, Esq.

Amelia Wright Brewer

Earl D. Brown

Art Edwards

Peter Friedland

Lawrence Hamdan

Joshua D. Liston, Esq.

Linda Nguyen

Maria Isabelle Palacios Hardy

Jen Press Marden

Gareth Old, Esq.

Carolyn P. Powell

JoAnn Y. Sacks, Ph.D.

Deborah Wolfe, Esq.

Andrew Zimmern

AFFILIATE MEMBERS

Michelle Ballan, Ph.D.

Peter Lattanzio

Phillip A. Saperia

COUNCIL OF ADVISORS

George C. Biddle

Robert B. Catell

Donna Colonna

Sherry Dulworth

Andrew Hurwitz, Esq.

Alice Korngold

Saundra Thomas

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

HOST COMMITTEE

Michelle Ballan, Ph.D.*

Josh Bider*

Erin Felker Bond, Esq.*

Amelia Wright Brewer*

Earl D. Brown*

Robert B. Catell

Oliver Chase

Sherrie Dulworth*

Art Edwards*

Neil Falcone

Peter Friedland*

Lawrence Hamdan*

Jacquie Holmes*

Edward Hubbard*

Andrew Hurwitz, Esq.*

Peter Lattanzio, Esq.*

Joshua D. Liston, Esq.*

Jen Press Marden*

Gail K. McCallion, Esq.*

John A. McKesson*

Beth McLeod

Linda Nguyen*

Gareth Old, Esq.*

Marie Isabelle Palacios Hardy*

Perry Perlmutter**

Carolyn P. Powell*

JoAnn Sacks, Ph.D.*

Phillip A. Saperia*

Deborah Wolfe, Esq.*

Andrew Zimmern*

EVENT TASK FORCE

Jen Press Marden, Chair*

Josh Bider*

Earl D. Brown*

Erin Felker Bond, Esq.*

Susan Gendal

Lois Krasilovsky

Peter Lattanzio*

Linda P. Nguyen*

Marie Isabelle Palacios Hardy*

Carolyn P. Powell*

JoAnn Y. Sacks, Ph.D.*

Drew Train

Barbara Warren

Deborah Wolfe, Esq.*

Andrew Zimmern*

CAMPAIGN CABINET

Jen Press Marden, Chair*

Peter Friedland*

Lawrence Hamdan*

Jacquie Holmes*

Edward Hubbard*

Joshua D. Liston, Esq.*

John A. McKesson*

Gareth Old, Esq.*

* S:US Board Member

** S:US President and CEO

NEW YORKERS STANDING TOGETHER CAMPAIGN

S:US is grateful to our generous New Yorkers Standing Together Campaign donors, listed to the right. This multi-year Campaign celebrates S:US’ 46 years of working to make real, sustainable, and enduring change in communities and fighting for social justice for New York City’s most vulnerable individuals and families.

New Yorkers Standing Together funds programs and services that help people overcome obstacles to leading a productive life.

New Yorkers Standing Together is an investment in our shared future as New Yorkers and an acknowledgment that assisting people in the hard work toward recovery and well-being makes sense for all of us.

At S:US, we understand that for there to be long-term social change, we must invest in people and communities. Our roots run deep in the communities where we serve, and we provide the tools that people need to empower themselves and to improve their life circumstances. No New Yorker should struggle alone when we can all stand together.

To learn more about our New Yorkers Standing Together Campaign, please visit sus.org/new-yorkers-standing-together/. For more information about supporting New Yorkers Standing Together, please contact Stacey Weston, Chief Development and External Affairs Officer, at 917-408-1632 or sweston@sus.org.

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

CAMPAIGN DONORS

Jen Press Marden, Campaign Chair

Bradley Alperin

Josh Bider

Erin Felker Bond, Esq.

Tailin Brecher

Amelia Wright Brewer

Earl Brown

Julio Castaing

Arlo Chase

Margaret Ann Cole

Donna Colonna

Don Crocker

Didi Doman

Sherrie Dulworth

Art Edwards

Peter Friedland

Larry Hamdan

Jacquie Holmes

Ed Hubbard

Judith Jackson

Peter Lattanzio

Rebecca Linn-Walton

Josh Liston

Jen Press Marden

Trish Marsik

Gail K. McCallion, Esq.

John McKesson

Courtney Morgan

Nadjete Natchaba

List as of May 22, 2024

Linda Nguyen

Gareth Old, Esq.

Marie Isabelle

Palacios Hardy

Erin Palmer

Perry Perlmutter

Jorge R. Petit, MD

Carolyn P. Powell

JoAnn Y. Sacks, Ph.D.

Monica Santos

Doug Walerstein

Stacey Weston

Deborah Wolfe

Andrew Zimmern

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS

THANK YOU CHEFS

To my friends, our inspiring chefs,

I’m taking this opportunity to extend my deepest gratitude to all of you who have worked tirelessly tonight and over the past decade to make S:US’ Dinner for a Better New York such a success year after year. Each and every one of you poured your heart and soul into the inspiring dedication to our craft. We see it on every plate.

More importantly, I want to thank you for your commitment to making this city a better place. By participating in the Dinner for a Better New York, you have brought joy to our guests, and helped to raise funds that go directly towards supporting S:US and their vital programs and services throughout the city. Your willingness and generous participation is a testament to the kind of community that we have here in New York, and I am honored to have been able to work alongside you and witness firsthand the incredible impact you have made.

Thank you for your hard work, devotion, and unwavering commitment to excellence at tonight’s dinner, and for many of you, over the past 10 years. You have truly made a difference, and I am so grateful to you for helping to make tonight such an amazing event.

With much love to all,

The following pages feature tonight’s paticipating Chefs. As we celebrate 10 years of the Dinner for a Better New York, we also celebrate the Chefs who make this evening possible year after year.

TONIGHT’S DINNER CHEF PARTICIPANT

CHEF MARC FORGIONE

Chef Marc Forgione is the acclaimed chef and owner of three iconic restaurants in NYC: the wood-fired Italian destination, Peasant, his eponymous Forgione in Tribeca and Trattoria One Fifth in Greenwich Village. In 2022 Marc partnered with hospitality firm Apres Cru to launch a new vision: R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Hospitality, to oversee his current restaurants as well as new projects. Marc has always lived and worked by the mantra of ‘respect.’

Marc is known for his role on Food Network as one of seven Iron Chefs. He is also a partner of New York City’s Laotian hotspot Khe-Yo, and author of “Marc Forgione: Recipes and Stories from the Acclaimed Chef and Restaurant.” Donating his time to worthy charitable causes, Marc acts as a Chef Ambassador for Chefs for Kids Cancer, City Harvest, and Feeding America. @marcforgione

TONIGHT’S COCKTAIL STATION CHEF

CHEF ERIC ADJEPONG

Host of Alex vs America and the upcoming Wild Card Kitchen on Food Network, Eric Adjepong is a network favorite and rising superstar. First generation GhanaianAmerican, Chef Eric Adjepong was born and raised in New York City. He is passionate about introducing West African cuisine to the mainstream culinary conversation, alongside the impact its diaspora has had on South American, Latin American, Caribbean, and American food.

After graduating with degrees in Culinary Arts & Nutrition from Johnson & Wales, Eric obtained a Masters of Public Health in International Public Health & Nutrition from the University of Westminster in London. From there, he cooked in several Michelin-starred restaurants before taking his talents to Top Chef. He was a finalist on season 16, and competed on Top Chef All-Stars

Catch him across Food Network, with appearances on Selena + Chef, Chopped, Guy’s Grocery Games, Supermarket Stakeout, Tournament of Champions, and more. He has partnered with brands such as AYO Foods, Bowery, Tanqueray, and works with charitable organizations like Save the Children.

Eric’s first children’s book, Sankofa: A Culinary Story of Resilience and Belonging, was published in 2023, and he is currently penning his debut cookbook with Clarkson Potter, set to release in 2024.

CHEF DANIEL BOULUD

Chef Daniel Boulud is widely celebrated as one of America’s leading culinary authorities and restaurateurs. Inspired by the rhythm of the seasons and menus driven by fine ingredients, Boulud has become renowned for the contemporary appeal he adds to soulful cooking rooted in French tradition. Since his arrival in the U.S. in 1982, he has expanded from his flagship restaurant, Daniel, to numerous acclaimed establishments across New York City and beyond, including Toronto, Montreal, Singapore, Dubai, and the Bahamas.

Raised on a farm near Lyon, Boulud opened Restaurant Daniel in 1993, marking the beginning of his culinary empire. His restaurant group now also includes Café Boulud, Le Pavillon, Bar Boulud, Boulud Sud, Le Gratin, Blue Box Café, Jji, Brasserie Boulud, Centurion NY, Maison Barnes, Épicerie Boulud, and Maison Boulud. Recognized with numerous awards, including James Beard Foundation honors and Michelin stars, Boulud is esteemed for his contributions to the culinary world.

Beyond his restaurants, Boulud is dedicated to philanthropy, serving as Co-President of Citymeals on Wheels, Co-Founder of Food1st, and Chairman of Ment’or. With a legacy spanning cookbooks, awards, and charitable endeavors, Boulud continues to influence and innovate in the realm of gastronomy.

TONIGHT’S COCKTAIL STATION CHEF

CHEF CALVIN ENG

Calvin Eng is the chef & owner of Bonnie’s, a Cantonese American restaurant in Williamsburg. Brooklyn-born and raised in a traditional Chinese family, Eng had the dream & goal of opening a restaurant for the last decade, but only in recent years has he realized how important it is to pursue Cantonese food and dive deeper into the dishes of his heritage. Bonnie’s has received positive reviews from The New York Times, The New Yorker, New York Magazine, Eater and Bon Appetit. Eng is a 2023 Star Chefs Rising Star, 2024 James Beard Best Chef: New York State Semifinalist, 2023 James Beard Best Chef: New York State Semifinalist, 2022 James Beard Emerging Chef Finalist, 2022 Food & Wine Best New Chef and 2023 Forbes 30 under 30.

CHEF LEAH COHEN

Leah Cohen is a renowned chef and owner of two highly acclaimed restaurants in New York City: Pig & Khao located in the Lower East Side, and Piggyback NYC in the Penn District. She gained a national following from appearing on TV, making her breakthrough on Bravo’s hit show “Top Chef,” and has since appeared on various Food Network shows including “Beat Bobby Flay,” “Guy’s Grocery Games,” and “Tournament of Champions.”

Early in her career, Cohen honed her skills in Michelin-starred kitchens, working alongside some of the world’s best chefs. Her Filipino heritage and regular visits to the region heavily influence her cooking style, which combines authentic Southeast Asian flavors with classical Western techniques.

In 2012, Cohen opened the beloved Pig & Khao, a 74-seat restaurant that has garnered praise from a number of sources including The New York Times, New York Magazine, and The Huffington Post. In January 2020, she introduced her second restaurant, Piggyback NYC, which offers a unique Pan-Asian dining experience. This colorful, boisterous spot features a spacious bar and a private event space called the Wayback Bar, nestled behind the main dining area.

Beyond her success on Food Network, Cohen also appears as a culinary expert on popular morning shows like “The TODAY Show” and “Good Morning America.” She has also showcased her talents on seasons 1 and 2 of PBS’s “Great American Chef.”

Cohen and her team are set to unveil a second location of Pig & Khao on NYC’s Upper West Side in 2024. This expansion marks an exciting milestone after a decade of operating in Manhattan’s vibrant Lower East Side.

CHEF STEFANO SECCHI

Stefano Secchi is the chef and partner of MichelinStarred Rezdôra, a rustic Italian restaurant highlighting the cuisine of Emilia Romagna in New York City’s Flatiron neighborhood. Brought up in a home with a strong sense of Sardinian heritage, Stefano has dedicated his career to the craft of Italian cooking. He spent several years honing his skills in Modena at the famed Osteria Francescana under Massimo Bottura and perfecting the art of handmade pasta under the tutelage of Nonna Laura Morandi at Hosteria Giusti and in Piemonte, just outside of the white truffle region of Alba, working with Michelin-starred chef Davide Palluda at All’Enoteca.

Since Rezdôra’s opening in 2019, Stefano has led the team, to a three-star New York Times review from restaurant critic Pete Wells, earned a 2021, 2022 and 2023 Michelin star, named one of the 100 Best Restaurants in New York City by the New York Times, and traveled to Milan to receive recognition as the #7 Italian restaurant in the world by Top 50 Italy.

Stefano is active in giving back to the New York food community, supporting No Kid Hungry, City Harvest, Food Education Fund, Wellness in the Schools, God’s Love We Deliver, and more.

TONIGHT’S DINNER CHEF PARTICIPANT

CHEF GEORGE MENDES

A first-generation American born to Portuguese immigrants, Chef George Mendes graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and worked for his mentor, David Bouley, at the chef’s original namesake restaurant before honing his talent further at Alain Passard’s Arpege in Paris. In 2009, Mendes opened Aldea to critical acclaim and a Michelin star, which he maintained for more than a decade. Mendes opened his popular Portuguese spot, Lupulo, in 2015 and Veranda in 2021. Mendes was named a 2011 Food & Wine Best New Chef and published his first cookbook, My Portugal: Recipes & Stories (Abrams) in 2014.

George Mendes has dedicated his illustrious career to giving reverence to the cuisine of his heritage, and Amar at Raffles Boston is the latest chapter of this lifelong effort. Amar offers a seafoodforward menu, bringing together Portuguese culinary traditions with local flavors sourced from the purveyors of New England, and select fish and red carabinero shrimp imported from Portugal. Bringing modern Portuguese fare of the highest caliber to Boston is George’s way of returning to his New England roots while leaning into the established landscape of champions of Portuguese cuisine that have been in Boston and its surrounding communities for generations.

CHEF DAN KLUGER

Born and raised in NYC, Dan grew up in a family where cooking always played a major role. Dan attended Syracuse University where he majored in Nutrition and Hospitality Management. He spent his externship in the dining room of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Cafe and after graduation returned to work in the front of house until he was offered his first kitchen position as a prep cook. It was USC that opened his eyes to the wonders of seasonal cooking and he spent the next two and a half years working his way through every station.

In 1999, Dan was asked to be a part of the opening team of Tabla Restaurant and spent the next seven years working his way up, becoming Tabla’s first Chef de Cuisine. Under Chef Floyd Cardoz’s direction, Dan was able to fine-tune his cooking techniques, the balance of flavors and textures in his dishes, and the use of Indian spices. Upon leaving Tabla, Dan was hired by Tom Colicchio as the Executive Chef for a project he was consulting on called The Core Club. Dan spent the next four years as the clubs culinary leader transforming the way a “members only” dining room was experienced.

Dan joined Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s team in 2008 where he helped open restaurants in Arizona, Utah, DC and New York before opening ABC Kitchen and ABC Cocina as the executive chef winning multiple awards including the 2011 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant as well as being honored as Food & Wine Best New Chef in 2012 and receiving the 2014 James Beard Nomination for Best Chef New York City. Dan was most recently nominated as a 2024 James Beard Award semi-finalist for Outstanding Chef.

Dan’s highly anticipated first solo venture, Loring Place, opened in 2016 fulfilling a lifelong dream and showcasing the skills he had become known for throughout his career. In Fall 2020, he released his debut cookbook Chasing Flavor followed by the launch of the to-go only grandma pizza concept, Washington Squares, in December 2020. He most recently opened his third project Greywind in 2023, located in Hudson Yards alongside an adjacent bakery, The Bakery at Greywind, and cocktail bar, Spygold. When Dan isn’t cooking, he spends time with his wife and two daughters.

Chef Eric Adjepong combines his West African and NYC roots in this exclusive collab. for to see more

Vibrant and rooted in heritage.

CHEF NOBU MATSUHISA

Nobu, the iconic Japanese restaurant empire founded by partners Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper, has expanded to include 52 restaurants around the world together with a stunning collection of Nobu Hotels and Residences Nobu continues to attract fans worldwide for its enduring atmosphere and continual reinvention of genre-defining cuisine. Learn more at noburestaurants.com and follow @Noburestaurants on Instagram and Twitter.

TONIGHT’S SILENT AUCTION CONTRIBUITOR

CHEF ERIC RIPERT

Eric Ripert is the chef and co-owner of the acclaimed New York restaurant Le Bernardin. Born in Antibes, France, Ripert moved to Andorra, a small country just over the Spanish border as a young child. His family instilled their own passion for food in the young Ripert, and at the age of 15 he left home to attend culinary school in Perpignan. At 17, he moved to Paris and cooked at the legendary La Tour D’Argent before taking a position at the Michelin three-starred Jamin. After fulfilling his military service, Ripert returned to Jamin under Joel Robuchon to serve as chef poissonier.

In 1989, Ripert seized the opportunity to work under Jean-Louis Palladin as sous-chef at Jean Louis at the Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C. Ripert moved to New York in 1991, working briefly as David Bouley’s sous-chef before Maguy and Gilbert Le Coze recruited him as chef for Le Bernardin. Ripert has since firmly established himself as one of New York’s—and the world’s—great chefs.

In September 2014, Ripert and Le Coze opened Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, named for their acclaimed wine director Aldo Sohm. That same month, the two expanded Le Bernardin’s private dining offerings with Le Bernardin Privé, a dynamic space above Aldo Sohm Wine Bar that can accommodate a range of events.

Ripert is the Vice Chairman of the board of City Harvest, working to bring together New York’s top chefs and restaurateurs to raise funds and increase the quality and quantity of food donations to New York’s neediest. When not in the kitchen, Ripert enjoys good scotch and peace and quiet.

CHEF ESTER CHOI

Esther Choi is an influential Chef driven by her Korean roots. She is the Chef and Owner of Mokbar, with locations in Chelsea Market, Midtown, New Jersey and soon to be Las Vegas. She is also the Chef and Partner of Ms. Yoo located in the Lower East Side. Inspired by the age-old technique of her Korean grandmother’s cooking, Chef Esther believes that food is the ultimate expression of a country’s culture. With a personal passion for introducing New Yorkers to the flavors of Korean culture, Chef Esther’s cooking combines traditional and modern influences with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Esther began her professional education at the early age of 14. Her formal training as a chef began at New York City’s Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), followed by various positions at New York City’s renowned Ilili and La Esquina, as well as that of the Food Network. In 2020 Esther launched with Cook Unity, a meal delivery service platform in New York City, and now has additional outposts in Los Angeles, Austin, Chicago & Seattle.

Esther currently hosts “Heat Eaters” by First We Feast, a successor to the highly acclaimed YouTube series “Hot Ones.” She is also at the helm of the newly launched culinary competition show, “24 in 24 Hours”. Cohosting with Chef Michael Symon, “24 in 24: Last Chef Standing” is proving itself to be the the most intense and captivating culinary marathon where the clock never stops. Previously, Esther participated as a competing chef on Netflix’s 2022 release, “Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend,” advancing to the final round.

In addition to these roles, Esther has made significant appearances across various Food Network programs. These include challenging and defeating renowned chefs on “Beat Bobby Flay” and “Bobby’s Triple Threat.” Her expertise extends to guest judging roles on popular shows like “Chopped,” “Throwdown with Michael Symon,” Eric Adjepond’s “Wildcard Kitchen,” and the Voltaggio brothers’ “Battle of the Brothers.”

Esther’s presence expands beyond traditional cooking shows; she was featured alongside Selena Gomez in HBO’s culinary series “Selena + Chef.” Furthermore, she enriches her portfolio with hosting duties on two podcasts: Food52-produced “Hotline Offline” and iHeart Podcasts cultural exploration podcast “Get Down with K-Town.”

In the autumn of 2023, Chef Esther launched her latest culinary endeavor, Gahm by Mokbar, located in Brooklyn. This innovative restaurant features a menu that evolves with the seasons, influenced by past competitions and events / dinners, providing Chef Esther the opportunity to continually reinterpret and refresh her offerings throughout the year.

Following the successful opening of Gahm by Mokbar, plans are underway for the inauguration of O Bar. Scheduled to open by the end of summer 2024, this new establishment will be conveniently situated across from another of Chef Esther’s celebrated ventures, Mokbar at The Hugh.

Chef PJ Calapa’s exposure to a broad range of cuisines and flavors began at an early age, having grown up in the Mexican border town of Brownsville, Texas. As a child, he joined his grandmother in the kitchen and later worked for his grandfather’s wholesale fish business. Calapa continued to nurture his culinary passion during undergraduate studies at Texas A&M University, when he worked on the hot line at Christopher’s World Grille.

Calapa then moved to New York and enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. As a CIA graduate, Calapa worked at Bouley in Tribeca, Eleven Madison Park, and Nobu 57, where he started as a line cook and quickly rose through the ranks to become executive sous chef. It was at Nobu 57 that Calapa learned about the delicate art of Japanese cuisine, which still informs his vision for fine dining. In 2010, Calapa joined the Altamarea Group to launch Ai Fiori, which earned three stars from The New York Times, a Michelin star, and a 2013 Star Chefs Rising Star Chef Award. Calapa then opened as executive chef at Campagna at the Bedford Post Inn.

In the summer of 2016, Calapa left the Altamarea Group to open two new projects of his own. In 2017, Calapa debuted his interpretation of an iconic New York tavern in Manhattan’s West Village, The Spaniard. Calapa then brought a taste of southern Italy to Manhattan’s Flatiron district with Scampi in the fall of 2020. His thoughtful menu showcased the culinary bounty of land and sea with dishes that highlighted the uninhibited vibrance of the region – delicately composed crudos, hand-made pastas, seasonal vegetables procured from the greenmarket and masterfully prepared items on the grill. Rejoining Altamarea Group, Calapa continues his culinary journey as the Executive Chef of highly acclaimed Marea, helming the kitchen and menu development.

THANK YOU CHEFS

A VERY SPECIAL THANK YOU TO Rosalinda Secondini NYS Sr. Director of Special Events, NYCWFF Sr. Director Wine & Spirits Brand Events & Sponsorships FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE FOR S:US for donating 10 years of Wine & Spirits to the Dinner for a Better New York THANK YOU 10

10 YEARS OF AMAZING CHEFS

Eric Adjepong

Jamie Bissonnette*

Daniel Boulud*

PJ Calapa

Josh Capon

Floyd Cardoz

Andrew Carmellini

Lena Ciardullo

Leah Cohen

Esther Choi

Scott Conant

Rocco Dispirito

Calvin Eng

Marc Forgione*

Alex Guarnaschelli*

Conor Hanlan

Daniel Holzman

Johnny Iuzzini

Gavin Kaysen

Dan Kluger

Eric Korsh

Nobu Matsuhisa*

George Mendes

Masaharu Morimoto

Ken Oringer*

Sisha Ortuzar

Brian Petroff

Douglas Quint

Marcus Samuelsson

Stefano Secchi

David Shim

Justin Smillie

Michael Solomonov

Jacques Torres

Christina Tosi

Laurent Tournodel

Jonathan Waxman

Mark Welker

Michael White*

* Participated 5+ years or more

10 YEAR PARTICIPANT

We have a cure for homelessness. It’s called housing.

S:US addresses the challenges that prevent individuals and families from leading independent lives in safe, secure homes of their own. We offer emergency, transitional, and permanent housing for people who have lost their homes and may be facing a variety of challenges—from mental illness to histories of incarceration, unemployment or poverty, from substance use disorders to HIV/ AIDS. The stability of a home, in our experience, makes recovery, employment, and health possible.

Homelessness is an injustice.

Housing is a right.

We help people see their strengths. And build on them.

The services we tailor for individuals with autism and other intellectual/developmental disabilities focus on helping each person live to their fullest potential: building social connections while participating in the community and deepening relationships with friends and family while living and receiving services in the community of their choice.

Our community residences and day habilitation programs offer opportunities for volunteering, obtaining competitive employment, and gaining skills for independent living.

People can overcome the biggest obstacles, with the right supports.

At S:US, we offer services to people whose mental health and substance use challenges or other life circumstances have led to homelessness or have prevented them from maintaining a stable and productive life.

Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness for women and their children. For families that have survived abuse, S:US operates shelters offering safety, security, and the opportunity to heal and rebuild lives. In addition to providing housing, we offer help with public assistance, planning and achieving long-term goals, and referrals to therapy and childcare.

Our comprehensive treatment and recovery supports work with people at any stage of their life. S:US’ mobile teams, community clinics, and residential treatment and crisis centers offer compassionate support in even the most difficult circumstances.

NO NYC VETERAN SHOULD BE IN A BATTLE WITHOUT BACKUP NO NYC VETERAN SHOULD BE IN A BATTLE WITHOUT BACKUP

We serve Vets in what can be a tough fight – coming home.

As one of New York City’s largest veteran services providers, S:US serves vets as they struggle to reintegrate to civilian life, coping with post-traumatic stress, depression, unemployment and homelessness.

We help vets find and maintain permanent housing, connect to mental health services and offer job training, placement, and on-the-job support.

We find fertile ground in the city where new possibilities flourish.

S:US has created and maintains more than 75 urban farms and gardens throughout New York City, most in neighborhoods where produce is scarce and the number of people with diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure is disproportionately high. Farms and gardens are located in the backyards and on the rooftops of our residences, shelters, and other programs.

Our urban farms make it possible for individuals with disabilities to find steady employment. The farmers receive ongoing training and job coaching that build employable skills in urban agriculture, landscape maintenance, and basic carpentry. Participants also receive the healing benefits of therapeutic horticulture and can enjoy the healthy products of their labor: fresh, organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

S:US has increased its focus on food security by expanding Urban Farms, creating Community Fridges, and initiating a Food Tote Delivery program. Our committed staff works tirelessly, partnering with those we serve to empower them with the skills needed to overcome life’s challenges.