On Monday morning, September 8th, our dear friend and former teammate Salomon (“Salo”) Pop Chub suffered a catastrophic accident at work at a nearby meat processing facility. He was badly injured, lost a significant amount of blood, went into cardiac arrest multiple times, and spent the past seven days in critical condition at Vassar Hospital, fighting for his life. It is with extremely heavy hearts that we share the devastating news that Salo passed away today.

Salo was a cornerstone of our kitchen family and a beloved friend to all of us at Gracie’s. Andrew first met Salo in 2012 at Fleisher’s Butcher Shop. The two quickly became friends, and Andrew admired his strong work ethic and skill. One day, Andrew asked, “If I open a restaurant, will you come work for me?” Salo laughed and said, “Sure, I guess, yeah.” True to his word, he joined the team shortly after we opened and quickly became an integral part of our kitchen, shaping the culture, spirit, and skill that continue to define Gracie’s. He brought his brothers, friends, and family into our work, building a kitchen family that still carries his influence today. Even after moving on to other jobs, Salo always returned to lend a hand, share his expertise, and be part of our story.

Now, Salo’s passing leaves his family not only with unimaginable grief but also financial strain. His brother Julio, our kitchen manager, along with their siblings, have stepped away from work to support the family. Yanira, Salo’s wife, and their son Jefferson, who just started fourth grade, are facing life without him.

This fundraiser is being organized by the Gracie’s team for the benefit of Salo’s family. We will collect all donations and send the full amount directly to Salo’s brother, Julio Pop Chub. Julio will use the funds to help support his sister-in-law and nephew, and provide for funeral arrangements in Guatemala.

Fund Transfer: All donations will be sent directly to Julio Pop Chub via bank transfer or another agreed-upon method. Julio will manage the funds on behalf of Salo’s family.

We are asking our community to come together for Salo’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Every contribution — big or small — will help cover living expenses, food, and other costs they face in the wake of this tragedy. Salo gave so much of himself to his work, his family, and his community. Now it’s our turn to show up for him and for those he loved most. Please donate if you’re able, and keep Salo, Julio, and their whole family in your thoughts.

 — The Gracie’s Family