I have always had a deep love for animals of all kinds, shapes, and sizes—a passion that has guided my life and inspired countless acts of kindness. Over the years, I have supported local shelters through donations, including a unique wedding gesture where guests contributed to the SPCA in lieu of traditional gifts. I have rescued stray cats, rehabilitated an injured baby squirrel and a baby opossum, and continue to advocate for animal welfare every chance I get.

My love for animals has been passed down to my five boys—Blake, Jax, Axl, Rafe, and Smith—who share my compassion and commitment. At home, our family cares for a lively crew of three beloved cats (Eleanor, Pancho, Binx), three dogs (Brody, Gemma, Olly), and a flock of spoiled chickens.

My family and I have attended the Celebrity Chef SPCA Fundraiser for many years, and I am honored to participate this year alongside my son Jax. Jax not only shares my love for animals but also my passion for cooking and baking, making this event a perfect way to combine our interests while supporting a cause close to our hearts.

Born and raised in Elmira, I am the proud mother of two children and a dedicated wife. I currently run a plumbing, heating and HVAC company with my husband. I spend my days caring for my family and balancing the work life of a self-employed family.  My biggest joy is caring for the people that I love and making them feel special and appreciated.

I am blessed to be the furry mother to my best friend, Figgaro.  Figgaro came into our lives as just a 12-week-old puppy that no one wanted.  He was the last pick of the litter and seemed to know it.  His eyes lit up the moment that my husband and I entered the room and sat on the floor to play with him. The rest was history, and he has been a spoiled rotten puppy for the last 11 years.  He is a timid boy, but loves with his whole entire tiny self. 

My love of cooking came ironically from the cooking channel and watching several cooking shows on how to learn to cook. I consider myself a “home chef” and definitely not a baker as my ability to follow directions and measure is sometimes lacking. I thoroughly enjoy seeing the happiness on people’s faces after I have cooked for them. Our house has become the go to for family events, from family dinner every Sunday to any reason to celebrate an event or holiday. All are welcome to come enjoy food, family, friendship and escape. 

My affection for animals came early on in life with my very first dog as a child. Since then, I have supported as many animal causes as I feasibly can. The SPCA is dear to my heart as I have rescued many cats over the years. Perhaps another soon if I can convince my husband. I am looking forward to meeting you, contributing to a great cause and hopefully cooking something that makes your mouth water and your stomachs wanting more. 

I am a native Elmiran.  I am also a retired English teacher who is currently a paralegal for Roth Elder Law in Painted Post.  I like to travel and have been around the world with friends and my students.  My goal is to get to Antarctica and then I will have been on all seven continents.  This summer I will venture to Croatia and Montenegro.  

Currently, I am the secretary for the Board of Directors for the SPCA and am ready to cook with my sous chef, Bryce Gooshaw, for this event.  

Though I have no pet of my own right now, I am uncle to Peggy, a little Shih Tzu with a ton of love; Rico, a cat with attitude; and Button, the softest cat on the planet. 

I have over 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, community development, and economic revitalization across the Southern Tier. I previously served as Executive Director of Elmira Downtown Development, Inc., where I helped secure major state funding and launched beloved community events that continue today.

Since 2021, I have served as President & CEO of the Chemung Chamber of Commerce, focusing on economic growth, workforce development, and regional collaboration. Originally from the area, I returned home in 2005 to invest in my community.

A proud descendant of generations of Lebanese women, my love of Lebanese Syrian food was passed down from my grandmother and remains a meaningful connection to family, culture, and community. I have a profound love for all animals and share my home with three beloved rescues: my cats, Midnight and Nova, and my dog, Bono.

I am a longtime local business owner who believes that strong communities are built by showing up for one another. Whether through my work, volunteer leadership, or community events, I am passionate about supporting organizations that make a real difference close to home.

An animal lover at heart, I am proud to support the SPCA and its mission to protect, care for, and find loving homes for animals in need. Participating in the Celebrity Chef event allows me to combine my love of cooking with my commitment to giving back to the community that has given so much to me.

I enjoy bringing people together over good food, good conversation, and shared purpose. I am honored to be part of an event that celebrates compassion, generosity, and the power of community.

Born and raised along the shores of Lake Ontario, I’ve spent more than 20 years building a career in the food service industry, working in restaurants, hospitality leadership, and operational roles across Oklahoma City, Utica/Syracuse, Columbia, Charlotte, and now Elmira. Those experiences—and the communities I’ve been part of—shaped my love for food as a way to connect people and create shared moments.

Growing up, food was our gathering place—where family came together, conversations flowed, and connection happened—and that sense of community around the table has stayed with me throughout my career. Today, I work in Training and Development, but my culinary roots remain a big part of who I am.

I’m also a proud paw-rent to two shelter pups, Ginger and Koa, whose stories inspire my commitment to rescue advocacy. Supporting the SPCA is close to my heart, and I’m truly honored to be one of this year’s Celebrity Chefs for such a meaningful event.

I am a freshman at Notre Dame High School. I have been cooking since I was quite young, at first just preparing sandwiches for lunch. I am now frequently given the task of preparing dinner for my family. So when I was asked to help out with the SPCA Celebrity Chef event, I agreed. 

My other interests are digital and traditional art, music composing and theater. I have participated in six productions in school.