Meet our growing list of 2026 Chefs!

Patrick Halloran, Executive Director of the Wheeler Foundation, developed a love for Cajun and Creole cuisine while living in New Orleans. He enjoys sharing Southern culinary traditions and teaching his daughters to cook.

Michael Remole, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, enjoys making Saturday morning breakfast with his sons, Jonah and Levi. His love of food inspires him to experiment and create delicious dishes.

Jakob Dazey, owner of Dazey’s Hair Lab in Danville, has been cutting hair for 10 years and cooking even longer. He loves combining travel, food, and service to care for his community.

Nichole Lesko (Niki), owner of Mimi’s Kitchen & Catering and House Director for Gamma Phi Beta, blends creativity and tradition to bring fresh flavor to classic recipes. She is passionate about community and excited to return to United We Cook, sharing her love of food and connection.

Stephanie Lober is the owner of The Local in Covington, Indiana. She’s passionate about food, growing ingredients, and creating unique flavor profiles for my restaurant and family.

Chef Matt Arteaga, an engineer by trade, crafts small-batch hot sauces using locally grown peppers. This hobby-turned-heat is available occasionally—whenever he gets around to making a new batch.

Lindsey Franz is the owner of LAF Designs. With creativity and a passion for bringing ideas to life, she helps turn great concepts into memorable experiences—and now, she’s bringing her flavor to United We Cook!

State Representative Brandun Schweizer serves District 104. A passionate cook, he enjoys preparing meals when time allows. He is honored to represent his community in Springfield and advocate for their needs.

David and Erin of Catlin, IL, are the heart behind every great gathering. David, a proud and unofficial “Best Papa” award winner, brings his love of family and good food to every table. Erin, his daughter and partner in the kitchen, adds her own creativity and energy, making every meal a true family affair.

Cassie Rhodes, owner and Head Chef of The Slotted Spoon, is passionate about fresh, quality food that brings people together. She enjoys camping, crafting, and spending time with family

Con Bateman, President of Faulstich Printing, is proud to support the impactful work of United Way and its partner agencies, helping strengthen the community through service, collaboration, and generosity.

Doug Ahrens, City of Danville Alderman, is an amateur chef who enjoys tasting while cooking. He loves sharing meals with others and supporting worthy causes through food and fellowship.

David Schnelle, Director of the Danville Sanitary District, is a former Domino’s Pizza franchisee. His culinary interests include pizza, old-school breads, meats, and desserts, inspired by local flavors.

Aaron Immke, a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones in Danville, IL, enjoys cooking, grilling, and smoking signature dishes to share with family and friends.

Ross Webb, State Farm Insurance Agent, is a proud community supporter who loves grilling and spending time in the kitchen—when he’s not watching college football or hitting the golf course.

Ethan Wise is a line cook at Caprae at Prairie Fruits Farm who champions fresh, locally sourced ingredients. He also supports the Covington Community Garden, promoting sustainability and access to homegrown produce. Proud to cook for a cause at United We Cook.

Ashton Greer is the owner of Clarity Design Co. and a Danville entrepreneur who believes good food brings people together. She’s proud to support United We Cook and celebrate the power of community around the table.

Robert Sloan, owner of Anker Florist and manager at Jocko’s Restaurant, grew up cooking with his grandma. He now enjoys crafting hearty Italian and American dishes and sharing them with his community.

Shirley Harlan, a semi-retired hair designer, has a longtime love of cooking. She enjoys hosting dinner parties and delights in cooking for friends on a regular—and delicious—basis.

Jake Lazzell, Senior Controller at Ironclad Consulting Services, always brings a plan to his work—but not the kitchen. There, he enjoys improvising meals for his family without recipes or rules.

Mary Catherine Roberson, candidate for Illinois State Representative, and her daughter Maia, a senior at Danville High School, are bringing their famous homemade cinnamon rolls to United We Cook—sharing a sweet family tradition.

Jonathan Mason is a two-time culinary graduate who completed a chef internship at the Danville Country Club. He hopes to open his own restaurant soon and is excited to showcase his skills at Liberty Village.

Mindy Ohlmiller is a third grade teacher at Judith Giacoma School in Westville and a mom of three. She turned her love of baking into MisFit Treats, sharing homemade cookies, cakes, and sweet celebrations.

Nicholas Rademacher is the District Engineer at the Danville Sanitary District. He enjoys tapping into his Italian roots by cooking family recipes and experimenting with new dishes in the kitchen.

Colton Fauver, Commercial Loan Officer at Fischer National Bank, is passionate about supporting the communities he serves. This year he’s contributing a sweet treat to help make a big impact locally.

Mike and Kasara Patton are the owners of Norah’s Smokehouse, known for authentic barbecue and bold flavors. Their slow-smoked specialties include brisket, ribs, rib tips, jerk chicken, and smoked chicken.

Sean Robison is an EMS Educator with Horizon Health who teaches EMS courses and leads community CPR programs. He also operates a catering and personal chef business specializing in elevated barbecue.

Mark has been a teacher in the CDS program at Crosspoint Human Services for nearly 44 years. He’s teaming up with Leland Lee from the CDS program to share their love of cooking.