Hoboken’s Realty and Hospitality Communities Come Together for the Empire Cares Cystic Fibrosis Fundraiser — September 12 at the W Hotel

Posted on August 11, 2015 in Events, hNOW

This year’s Empire Cares Cystic Fibrosis Gala will take place on Saturday, September 12 from 7-11 p.m. at the W Hotel – Hoboken.

Moved by the strong character exhibited by their colleague, Nick Costantino, representatives from the Empire Realty Group have worked with members of Hoboken’s always-generous hospitality industry host the event at a minimal cost, directing the overwhelming majority of the funds raised to CF research and treatment.

“The aim of the gala is to raise as much money as possible while increasing awareness about the disease and celebrating Nick at the same time,” says Jane Estes, Broker at Empire Realty Group. “We decided to do it on our own, so that we could ensure the money went directly to the doctors who have been treating Nick for so many years.”

“We were overwhelmed by the response from our local chefs when we began gathering participants,” says Lisa Troyano-Ascolese, CF Gala Event Chairperson and real estate agent with Empire Realty. “Everyone was very eager to be a part of the event! It’s a testament to these amazing restaurants, the men and women that own them, and the Hoboken business community as a whole. It really is like nowhere else.”

“Being a local chef and restaurant owner gives me the opportunity to give back to the community,” says restaurateur Dave Carney, owner of the Madison Bar & Grill. “There are a number of reasons why I enjoy doing this event for the benefit of Nick and people impacted by CF—among those are the fact that Nick is such a special person, and the another is how seamless this event goes off because of people like Lisa that organize it.”

“We are looking forward to honoring and celebrating Nick for his perseverance, love and zest for life,” says Rose Marie Ranuro from Biggie’s Clam Bar. “We’ve all learned lessons from Nick.”

“As a chef, you have committed yourself to taking on more than just cooking or owning a restaurant—you have chosen to take on an advocacy role for your neighbors and community,” says Anthony Pino, of Anthony David’s and Bin 14. “I feel it’s vital to support our Hoboken families however we can, whether in need or simply celebrating life—such as with the Empire Cares CF Gala. So you can count on Pino Hospitality to be there.”

“Callahan’s has always stood the test of time as being a business that loves giving back to the community,” says Daniel DeMiglio, owner of Callahan’s Hot Dogs in Norwood. “My family has always instilled that mentality deep into the roots of my business mindset. To be part of this magnificent event for the second year in a row, spearheaded by Empire Realty Group, I am proud to help the fight for Cystic Fibrosis. Life is all about smiles and happiness and we can’t wait to shed some of that on this wonderful evening by serving our iconic hotdog!”

Restaurants participating in the Empire Cares CF Gala include:

Meanwhile, Giannone Wine & Liquor is proud to be the exclusive beer, wine and liquor provider for the event.

CLICK HERE for ticket information.

“I would love people to come and celebrate with us at the gala, raise a lot of money and awareness about Cystic Fibrosis,” says Nick Costantino. “I hope by hearing my story or meeting me in person, people can better understand how precious and short life is. Tell the people in your life how you feel about them, live with passion and smile every day. Life is an amazing journey, be grateful for every breath—I know I am!”

Empire Cares Cystic Fibrosis Gala
Saturday, September 12 from 7-11 p.m.
W Hotel – Hoboken