If You Build It, They Will Come: The 2026 SOLD OUT Celebrate Life Luncheon
If You Build It, They Will Come...
That quote from Field of Dreams is all I could think about when Jill and I took the stage in front of a packed room at The Mohawk House last week. Our cheeks still hurt from smiling so much and receiving so many hugs and kisses from family and friends.
After being asked to return again this year, Sean “Big Daddy” Mckee absolutely tore the roof off when he belted out the Star Spangled Banner to kick off the program. Watching everyone then stand and sing “God Bless The USA” at the top of their lungs is always a highlight for us and a beautiful way to support our local veterans.
We were so honored to have two exceptional guest speakers grace our stage. My dear friend, Betsy Frischman Fischer, flew all the way from Florida to share the incredible story behind her new book, “Even After Everything: How One Humble Kibbutznik Believed in Heaven While Going Through Hell.” We also heard from Lorri Faris, a survivor who navigated an incredibly difficult path to rebuild a safe life for her family.
A huge congratulations goes out to our 2026 VIP (Very Inspirational People) Award Recipients: Valerie Macchio, Birdy Nobile, Mike Walter, Lynette DeLisa, and Vic Pedalino. It was so cool to have guest presenters- Lorri Faris, Pete Litchfield, Kelly O-Neil, Heather Davey, and Dr. Jill- write beautiful, heartfelt introductions to bring each VIP onto the stage.
This year we also gave out a “Jr. VIP Award” to Sophia Deray. Her project, “Diet: The Mind and Body,” impressed the judges so much at this year’s Hudson County STEM Showcase, that she was given a “Young Scientist” award.
The afternoon was filled with surprises that made the day even more memorable. Tracey Garripoli Rodriguez surprised her sister, Jill, with a heartfelt toast to recognize her 20 years as a pediatrician and 10 years as the owner of Healthy Kids Pediatrics. It was awesome to have some of Jill’s colleagues and patients show up as a surprise to celebrate with her.
We also gave special recognition to Vic Pedalino, the kind of father every boy deserves to have, for his 3,200 hours of volunteer service to Habitat for Humanity. His group of “gray heads” from HFH were there to present the award, and his R.O.M.E.O group (Retired Old Men Eating Out), a group of friends from the 5th grade, also came as a surprise to cheer him on.
Frank Garripoli was officially named The G.O.A.T of Yahtzee after winning his 5th consecutive international tournament in Costa Rica January.
As always, Jeffrey Scott Gould kept the event’s soundtrack and vibes impeccably positive and Pura Vida.
Michael Bird McHugh “Bird” McHugh and Johnny V - nailed the event capture, so we have some fantastic memories to cherish.
A final thanks to Rachael, Ricky, Steve, Manuel, and the entire team from the Mohawk House who once again provided outstanding hospitality and a superb dining experience.
Onwards and upwards…
Marcello & Dr. Jill