Chef Gerry Hayden's Life Celebrated With Fundraiser Inspired By 6th Grader

SOUTHOLD, NY - Chef Gerry Hayden may have lost his brave battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, in September, but he's left a rich legacy to the many who loved him.

Even the youngest remember a man who blazed culinary trails and touched countless lives with his huge and giving heart.

Isaiah Mraz, a sixth grader at Southold Elementary School, was the inspiration to host a movie night fundraiser Friday night at the school's new, outdoor amphitheater, in memory of Hayden.

Isaiah's parents Mike and Mary Mraz are co-owners of The North Fork Table with Chef Hayden and his wife Claudia Fleming.

The school district will show "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" on Friday at the Southold Elementary School outdoor amphitheater, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The event is a fundraiser for ALS. Tickets cost $5 per person or $20 per family. An adult must accompany all children; guests should bring blankets or chairs, as the amphitheater will fill up quickly.

Southold School Superintendent David Gamberg said, so far, about 100 have purchased tickets, with tickets still available; tickets can also be purchased the night of the movie.

"The amphitheater is the perfect venue to bring people together for a good cause,” said elementary school principal Ellen O’Neill.

"Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" was written by Roald Dahl and has long been a beloved classic.

"Now add the charm of an outdoor movie experience in a stone amphitheater, and the fact that the movie is a fundraiser for a good cause — all proceeds will go to help find a cure for ALS — and you have the recipe for a wonderful event," a release said.