Seven of Rockland County’s best-known chefs will team up to support suicide prevention at a benefit on Tuesday, Sept. 18. Chefs Alain Eigernman of Alain's Bistro in Nyack; Doug Chi Nguyen of Wassabi in West Nyack; Didier Dumas of Patisserie Didier Dumas in Nyack; Jeffrey Kaufman of Hudson House in Nyack; Paulo Feteira of Union Restaurant in Haverstraw; Kevin Pomplum of Cafe Barcel in Nyack will be led by Marcello Russodivito of Marcello's Ristorante in Suffern and each will prepare signature dishes.
The event, "Marcello's Magnificent Seven,” will benefit the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention. Specifically it will support the awareness efforts led by former Yankees Pitcher Tommy John, who lost his son Taylor to suicide in 2010. Organizers say it serves as a tribute as well to John. Over the past two years, John has attended area events and met many Rockland County residents and thrown out the first pitch at local little league games.
The event will be hosted by Gary Goldberg of Goldberg Financial Services at the Grand Montebello Mansion. Guests at the red carpet event in the restored 1860’s mansion in Suffern will dine on:
- Arancini of Rice and Baked Paccheri Pasta From Marcello’s
- Beef Tartare on Crostini and Duck Pate on Crostini from Alain Bistro
- Tuna Sushi and Salmon Sushi from Wassabi
- Quesadilla De Pollo and Guacamole Caramba from Union Restaurant
- Mini CB Burger and Corn Chowder with a la Plancha Pimenton Shrimp from Café Barcel
- Chilled Avocado Soup and Savory Custard in a Egg Shell from Hudson House
- Pattiserie Assortment from Didier Dumas
Adding to the evening’s ambiance will be performances by recording artist Giada Valenti and international Concert Violinist David Podles. The event will include a wine tasting station, champagne fountain and open bar provided by Liquorland in Suffern, a silent auction, open bar, DJ, vacation raffle and autograph opportunities with Tommy John.
The event will raise funds in Taylor John’s name for “Team Taylor” as part of the annual “Out of the Dark” walk for suicide prevention and awareness in Chicago. John's goal is to raise at least $20,000 for the walk, which he has reached previously.
Tommy John and Robert Gebbia, executive director of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will speak. Tickets for the 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. benefit cost $150 and are limited to 200 people.
