How does one measure the success of an evening like the one which we all experienced on October 9th together with Jean Georges, Michael , Melissa, Lawrence, Chelsea, Dylan, Layla, Brittany, Jonathan and all of the guests who tiptoed towards the Aherne's kitchen in between courses to witness a true miracle?

It is measured by the beauty of what was on our plates, but also by the beauty of what we witnessed in that kitchen, high school students working with intense concentration and pleasure alongside some of the top chefs in America. Working as a team.

It is measured by the image of young waiters walking through the dining room with their heads held high, justifiably proud of themselves as they efficiently carried plates like paintings to place in front of our amazed eyes, while whisking away what remained of food which reminded us of how extraordinary food from this island can be when it is cooked by chefs who know how to bring out the best in it.

It is measured by the amazement of the guests who wondered whether or not we would be able to pull it off, and were astonished that we did.

It is measured by the vivid conversations going on at every table among people who were asking each other "So what is ICEC?"

It is measured by the sight of exhausted volunteers standing in the kitchen at midnight, washing pots and pans.

It is measured by the words "When we do this again next year...."
It is measured by the reply, "And of course we will."

Thank you to all who made it possible.

more pictures of this wonderful event