Legacy of Love @ Noble Cellar

With over 20 years of experience in sales, business development, and real estate, Sarah Pelligrini has built a distinguished career marked by excellence, leadership, and a proven ability to drive economic growth. Her journey began with a successful venture in interior design, which quickly expanded into a comprehensive real estate business. Throughout her career, she has assisted over 700 families in achieving their real estate dreams and has consistently exceeded targets, driving substantial revenue growth.

Originally from Syracuse, New York, Sarah laid the foundation for her career at Syracuse University. She began her professional journey at an Interior Design Firm in Seattle, WA, where she worked under the mentorship of an internationally acclaimed Interior Designer. This experience allowed her to collaborate closely with architects, contractors, and investors on commercial projects. After seven years in Seattle, Sarah returned to her hometown, reinvesting in the community and applying the knowledge and skills that have shaped her succeSarah's commitment to continuous education has been a cornerstone of her career. This dedication led her to serve as Vice President at a National Real Estate Coaching organization for five years, where she counseled hundreds of agents across the country, guiding them in growing their businesses and investing in their communities. This role solidified her position as a leader and a sought-after mentor for business owners looking to elevate their C-level executive teams.

In addition to her work in real estate, Sarah has successfully led the sale of over 700 properties and overseen the development and operations of an award winning, high-end, fine dining restaurant. These experiences have sharpened her skills in project management, strategic planning, and economic forecasting—critical components of driving sustainable development. Her background has given her a keen insight into the factors that influence economic development, from urban planning and infrastructure investment to business attraction and retention strategies. Furthermore, her experience in international business development has equipped her with the ability to navigate complex negotiations and build strategic partnerships that support long-term growth.

Passionate about fostering community development and identifying market opportunities, Sarah is well-positioned to contribute to the continued success and expansion of any organization. Her strategic vision and hands-on leadership make her a valuable asset for businesses looking to grow.

Derek Vargas is a Principal at Crowe LLP, where he leads Crowe’s Salesforce Consulting practice, and helps customers transform their businesses and drive successful outcomes and through strategy, process, and technology.

Prior to joining Crowe, Derek was the Co-Founder and CEO of Spark.Orange, a Syracuse-based Salesforce Strategic Implementation Partner and socially-conscious tech company focused on strategic digital transformation. Spark.Orange recognized 1000% growth over a three-year period, including landing on the 2019, 2020, & 2021 Inc. 5000 and the 2020 & 2021 Financial Times FT500 Americas, as well as CNY's Best Places to Work in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Throughout his time with Spark.Orange, Derek was recognized by Centerstate CEO as an Economic Champion eight years in a row. Spark.Orange was acquired by Crowe LLP in October of 2021.

Prior to creating Spark.Orange, Derek has over 20 years of sales, marketing, and technology consulting for businesses from start-ups to the Fortune Global 50.

Outside of the office, Derek has served as a board member with multiple non-profits, and currently sits on the Board of Directors of Profound, a not-for-profit mastermind organization comprised of Central and Western NY's top leaders and entrepreneurs. Most importantly, Derek is the very proud father of two amazing teenage daughters, Kyra and Kaelyn.

Jazz In The City’s co-founder and artistic director, Ronnie Leigh, also serves as artistic director for Fayetteville Jazz and has been impressing audiences for quite some time from Syracuse to Seattle, from New York to Istanbul, and throughout the United States.

Ronnie is an Albany, New York native and six-time SAMMY (Syracuse Area Music Award) winner has also been inducted into the SAMMY Hall of Fame.

Ronnie has performed with major Symphony Orchestras, and in theaters, arenas, stadiums, jazz clubs, concert halls, resorts, nightclubs and dance halls nationwide and worldwide.

"When it comes to creating hype around a new restaurant opening, Noble Cellar crushed it. Their cryptic social media posts had the Syracuse community intrigued about what the restaurant would offer. And this month we finally got a look inside as Noble Cellar has opened its doors to the public.

The restaurant is stylish. It offers a high-end selection of appetizers and entrees. They have an extensive list of over 100 wines. And they pay homage to the unique history of the building. Win-win-win-win."

Continue reading about Noble Cellar here: 
Noble Cellar Unites Elevated Dining with Local History in Syracuse (wandercuse.com)

We are holding this beautiful event on a very special day that we lovingly call "The Man Behind the Mission Day" at David's Refuge. On October 22, 2009, David Pfohl entered heaven after a courageous 13-year battle with Batten's Disease. His life and legacy ignited the spark that has guided us for the past 12 years.

As many of you know, this mission was founded by Warren and Brenda Pfohl in memory of their son, David. Despite the heartache of his passing, they held steadfast in their faith in God's goodness and love. David's faith was simple yet profound, centered on loving others as God loved him. His favorite hymn, "It Is Well with My Soul," chosen in a moment of divine clarity, now stands engraved on his gravestone as a lasting testament to his spirit. The Pfohls believe that David’s life, his struggles, and even his death have been redeemed, transforming his story into one of enduring hope, faith, and love. This legacy lives on through David’s Refuge, a sanctuary where parents of children with special needs can find comfort and renewal.

Your support tonight- and throughout the year ensures our mission and David's legacy can continue for generations to come.

Parenting can be a difficult journey under any circumstances, but it's especially challenging for those who provide full-time care to children with special needs. David's Refuge brings respite, resources and support to these caregivers reminding them that they are not alone, and what they do matters. Wellness, Community and Respite programs empower caregivers to lead their families with strength.

Your support will allow us to continue our mission to help prevent caregiver burnout. Please consider making a gift today. Your support will change the lives of caregivers in our community, leading to healthier, stronger families.