Collaborating For A Cure

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation swings into summer with its 14th annual Hamptons Happening on Saturday, July 14, at 6:30 PM at the home of Maria and Kenneth Fishel in Bridgehampton. The anticipated event brings together nearly 300 guests each year as they indulge in food from some of the finest restaurants in the area all while supporting the efforts of the nonprofit organization.

Samuel Waxman Cancer Research was founded in 1976 by Dr. Samuel Waxman. Since then, the foundation has pioneered the way in cancer research, awarding nearly $100 million to more than 200 researchers worldwide.

“Each year, I am always inspired by how much the local community comes together to support this event and ultimately cancer research,” said Dr. Waxman. “We like to say the SWCRF community is collaborating for a cure. I could not be more grateful to this year’s sponsors, honorees, to everyone who is participating with a food or beverage station, and to the event chairs and committee for their extraordinary contributions. Cancer has touched nearly every person in the world and supporting cutting-edge research is critical if we want to understand what causes cancer and move toward finding cures.”

This year the SWCRF has collaborated with the National Cancer Institute and National Institute of Aging in a joint effort to explore the way aging affects cancer development. It marks a historical moment; the SWCRF is the only international cancer research foundation to focus on the parallels of aging and cancer. Research has shown cancer development dramatically increases in patients ages 40 years and older, peaking at around 68 years old.

“This collaboration will fund research to uncover how aging contributes to gene mutations that could lead to cancer development and how scientists can use their deepening knowledge of aging to enhance prevention or treatment of the disease,” Dr. Waxman continued.

The popular event will once again be emceed by CBS 2 News Anchor Chris Wragge, with a live and silent auction. Attendees will witness magic tricks and performances by The National Circus Project, as the group returns for a third year.

This year’s event honors Chef Matt Lambert, executive chef and co-owner of the Manhattan-based restaurant The Musket Room. The fashion honoree is Ramy Brook Sharp, founder and creative director of the contemporary womenswear brand Ramy Brook.

“I am so proud to be an honoree. The foundation has made so many incredible strides in helping to tackle and eradicate this devastating disease. To be able to contribute and aid in their effort is truly a pleasure and something that I take quite seriously,” said Brook.

This year’s business honoree is Joe Farrell, founder and president of Farrell Building Company. “I’m honored to have been selected as this year’s Business Honoree for the Hamptons Happening. This particular cause is personally significant to Farrell Building Company and our family as it’s been almost two years since we lost a family member and friend to cancer,” Farrell detailed.

“Steve Pryzby’s management and organization abilities helped to transform Farrell Building Company into what it is today. Samuel Waxman and his team are on the cutting edge of cancer research, and the Farrell organization is looking forward to continuing our partnership with the Waxman Foundation in this quest toward the cure for cancer,” he added.

Executive Chef of Great Performances, Robert Valencia, manages the logistics behind the nearly 35 chefs from the Long Island and Manhattan areas that will gather. Valencia, now involved for the second year, said, “I’m looking for the chance to have great food. Everyone is excited to be there.”

Participating restaurants, chefs, and spirits brands include, to date: 21 Club, Backyard Brine Pickle Company, Burke & Wills, Buzz Pop Cocktails, Centro Trattoria & Bar, Clarkson Ave. Crumb Cakes, Eataly, Ete, Five Senses Catering, Fresh Direct, Gabriel Kreuther, Golden Pear Café, Insatiable EATS Catering & Event Specialists, Haas Brothers Tequila, Magnolia Bakery, Marie Belle Chocolates, The Musket Room, Montauk Hard Label, OPA! On The Go, Restaurant Lola, Saaz Indian Restaurant, Seafood Shoppe, Simple Vodka, South Fork Bakery, Union League Club, and Woops Macarons.

VIP Tickets are $1000, individual tickets are $425, and 30 and under tickets are $200. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org, call 212-867-4502, or follow @waxmancancer.

@NikkiOnTheDaily
nicole@indyeastend.com