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.

Dana, Chamber Director for Vermilion Advantage, is passionate about supporting local businesses and building community. A former baking entrepreneur, she still enjoys creating sweet treats and bringing people together!

George Monyok, Maintenance Technician at Chevron, is an outdoorsman who enjoys hiking, camping, and mountain biking with his wife and two boys. Cooking isn’t his strength—but pouring drinks is.

Dennis is retired and has a lifelong passion for cooking. He enjoys experimenting with new recipes and is known for his crowd-pleasing fruit animals that bring smiles to every table.

Tricia Teague, City of Danville Alderman and founder of The Trep School and Soar Space Business Center, is a self-proclaimed foodie who loves global cuisine—especially when dessert is involved.

CRIS Healthy Aging presents Chef Jazmen and Chef Lori. Jazmen enjoys reimagining popular recipes, while Lori brings restaurant experience and nutrition expertise. Together, they create simple, beautiful, and nourishing dishes.

Eric Shore and Dean Shore, Financial Advisors at Shore Wealth Management, are a father-son team who enjoy cooking together. They’ve built a tradition of sharing meals at family gatherings and celebrations.

Candice Della Sala, founder of Overflow Wellness and Grains of Grace, is a mom of four who built a cottage kitchen into a growing business focused on wholesome, locally sourced foods.

Lance, owner of Patriot Pure Water Conditioning, is dedicated to providing clean, reliable water solutions. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, supporting local restaurants, and giving back to his community.

Tonya Hill, Executive Director of the DACC Foundation, and Greg Wolfe, Chair of the DACC Board of Trustees, are dedicated community leaders who share a passion for service, family, and giving back.

Heather Runyan, Executive Assistant to the Mayor of Danville and President of Arts in the Park, loves cooking with her daughter Paisley and believes family dinner is the most important meal.

James Rogers, a Pipefitter with Local 149, is a passionate pitmaster who loves grilling. Known for his open-door Sunday dinners, he enjoys cooking for family, friends, and his five kids and granddaughter.

Bradley Bowman, Accountant and Office Manager at Heartland Properties, enjoys cooking with his wife and two kids. He loves experimenting with recipes and adding his own creative twist.

Jason Whaling, Residential Mortgage Lender at Fischer National Bank, is an active community volunteer who serves on local boards. He enjoys giving back and is excited to return to United We Cook.

Mark Croy, with the Regional Office of Education in truancy, develops recipes for retail and wholesale markets. He hopes to expand his offerings, including his featured marinara sauce.

Nick Hawkinson, State Farm Agency owner in Westville, is a passionate home chef who loves grilling and family recipes. He enjoys bringing people together through food, including his Nana’s famous lasagna.

Ann Bateman has enjoyed the art of cooking for many years and looks forward to giving back to her community. Her newest joy is spending time with her grandson.

Kimberly Watson, General Manager of Jocko’s in Danville, started as a hostess in 2008 and worked her way up. A proud hometown native, she’s passionate about food, leadership, and tradition.

Beth, owner of the Big Four Tavern, is known for taking care of her people. A proud mom of two, she brings warmth, connection, and a welcoming spirit to everything she does.

LaTana Lillard, Director of Prevention Education and Community Outreach at Survivor Resource Center, values connection over cooking. She believes food brings people together and creates meaningful moments that strengthen community.

Shannon LaBounty, a realtor and DIY enthusiast, is a passionate home baker. From cupcakes to full dessert spreads, she loves creating sweet treats inspired by her growing skills.

Steve Drollinger, owner of Drollinger’s Collision and Custom, is an active family man who enjoys grilling, smoking, and preparing quick, on-the-go meals between sports, coaching, and fitness.

Chance Waggaman, Digital Marketing Account Executive, is passionate about grilling, smoking, and entertaining. A true carnivore, he brings bold flavors to the table and a love for great food and bourbon.

Jeff Saylor, Human Resources professional at Ray O’Herron, enjoys bringing people together both at work and around the table, sharing good food and great company whenever he can.