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A.C.E. For The Homeless 2009 Gala : Leading Downtown Homeless Organization Honors Industry Leaders and Distinguished Patrons at 2009 Gala! 

New York, NY, June 4, 2009 – The Association for Community Employment for the Homeless (A.C.E.) honored leaders in the world of philanthropy, business, media and fine art at their dinner gala last night, Wednesday, June 3rd, at Guastavino’s Restaurant, in New York City. This year’s gala Chairs were Sara Herbert-Galloway and Barry Klarberg.

The theme of the event was “Coming Together to Celebrate Hands at Work,” in recognition of the extraordinary work of A.C.E. program participants who help keep lower Manhattan one the cleanest areas in the City as well as the staff and volunteers who make up the organization. 

Those honored included Jason Binn, CEO, Niche Media; Earl Jones, media pioneer and philanthropist; Jeffrey D. Roseman, Executive Vice President, Newmark Knight Frank Retail; Marianna Olszewski Rounick, CEO, Madison Financial Management; and architect Richard Kaplan and artist Edwina Sandys. Apple SoHo also received the 2009 A.C.E. Community Service Award. 

The evening’s emcee was TV host/best-selling author, Rita Cosby. Kicking-off the dinner portion of the evening, Academy Award-nominated IMPACT Repertory Theater performed two songs, while critically acclaimed music producer, Beco Dranoff, acted as DJ, filling the night with classic and contemporary bossa nova and world music.

Says A.C.E. founder, Henry Buhl: “Last night was a roaring success! As our Foundation continues to aid the homeless of New York City, the importance of our annual gala is clearer now maybe than ever before. We are honored and touched by our patrons who continue, even in the present climate, to support us. This year’s outstanding group of honorees added greatly to the success of the evening.” 

The Association of Community Employment for the Homeless is a non-profit organization designed to help empower New York City's homeless men and women to re-enter the workforce and achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency. Beginning with an intensive four to six month vocational rehabilitation – incorporating work experience, job-readiness workshops and one-on-one counseling – the Association later assists graduates with opening bank accounts, securing full-time employment, and finding permanent housing. A.C.E.'s unique strategy has been wildly successful. 

The SoHo, TriBeCa and NoHo/Bowery Partnerships, district initiatives of A.C.E., their namesake districts and the people who live and work there. Through its memberships and donations, participants of the Partnerships’ programs clean the streets of SoHo, TriBeCa and NoHo/Bowery on a daily basis as part of its vocational training. The program thus serves program clients as well as the neighborhoods, keeping these historic areas beautiful, and fostering a sense of community.  

 
DAVID Wilson
Director of Publicity
Oui 2 Public Relations
212 541 5698    http://www.oui2.com/
photos by Greg Partanio, www.manhattansociety.com event photographer for ACE
photos also on www.timessquaregossip.com

A.C.E. For The Homeless 2009 Gala

Leading Downtown Homeless Organization Honors Industry Leaders and Dis ...

Updated: Jun 08, 2009 8:53am PST

A.C.E. For The Homeless 2009 Gala Kick Off Party : A.C.E.  Kick Off Cocktail Party March 31, 2009. New York City.  It is an honor to be one of the chairs of the upcoming event for the Association of Community Employment Programs for the Homeless (A.C.E.), along with Barry Klarberg. Henry Buhl ; philanthropist, humanitarian, visionary and Founder of A.C.E.,  graciously opened the doors of his exquisite SoHo home for this evenings cocktail party.  It is always a pleasure to visit Henry’s home which is laden with his ever changing collection of Hand art that tours the world.  Tonight was special, it was the kick off party for the annual A.C.E. Award Dinner scheduled for June 3rd at Guastavino’s under the 59th Street bridge. This evenings cocktail party for over 100 guests was generously underwritten by Donna and Roys Poyiadjis.  Rodney, a graduate from A.C.E.’s program spoke, proudly saying, “I was homeless for seventeen years, I now have a job thanks to A.C.E.  I am proud to say that I just paid taxes for the first time in years, received an electric bill and got my first credit card.” His speech was inspiring and proved that our help does make a difference. We can help to rehabilitate a person giving him or her a new lease on life.  This year, we are “Celebrating Hands at Work.”  We are acknowledging the men and women of A.C.E.'s vocational training program. They work hard every day on community service projects while learning skills to reclaim their lives .The upcoming event usually raises about one million dollars for A.C.E., and is critical to A.C.E.’s annual fundraising efforts. Due to economic downturns homelessness is increasing. A.C.E. needs our help to assist these individuals now more than ever.  To learn more about A.C.E. go to www.ace4homeless.org  
To learn more about the June 3rd Gala please contact Arienne Orozco | e-mail: arienne@o-consulting.net    
Story by Sara Herbert-Galloway      
PHOTO CREDIT: Copyright © 2009 Manhattan Society.com by Gregory Partanio | tel:718.614.7740 | e-mail: PrinceGregory@manhattansociety.com***Please note more photos and ID's coming shortly***

A.C.E. For The Homeless 2009 Gala Kick Off Party

A.C.E. Kick Off Cocktail Party March 31, 2009. New York City. It is ...

Updated: Apr 03, 2009 9:49am PST

NEW YORK - MARCH 17: The MDG Awards global launch event at the United Nations building on March 17, 2009 in New York City. : Tuesday March 17, 2009 - NEW YORK - Tuesday 17: The MDG Awards global launch event at the United Nations building on March 17, 2009 in New York City. PHOTO CREDIT: © 2008 by Steve Mack | Booking Inquries Contact: Steve Mack | tel: 917.202.4358 | e-mail: steve@sdmackpictures.com | PLEASE NOTE: These images are available for licensing through FilmMagic and Getty Images.

New York City. March 17th, 2009. Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu was honored at the UN General Assembly for his lifetime of service in human rights. Nobel Peace Prize winner Tutu once said, “do your little bit of good where you are; it's those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world," epitomizing the spirit of the MDG Awards. Widely regarded as “South Africa’s moral conscience”, he has been described by Nelson Mandela as “somewhat strident, often tender, never afraid, and seldom without humor, his voice will always be the voice of the voiceless.” Tutu managed to entertain all of us with his comedic comment, “I’m not as young as I look.” He spoke of a 400 year old school in Holland that he visited after it was named in his honor and said a child asked him, “Were you here when the school was built?” He danced and sang off the stage singing, “I’m going to take a sentimental journey.” It is obvious why Tutu has so many books compiled of his speeches and sayings. Many people were in awe of being in the presence of such a great human being and humanitarian.

Actor Armand Assante opened the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) program, remarking, “I am pleased to be among the most extraordinary minds of humanitarianism in the world. Many have to negotiate through hatred to get things done, these men negotiate through peace.” Macy Gray rocked the UN with her message of love getting everyone moving to her hit “Say Good-Bye”, a perfect Millennium message for us all, “My world crumbles if you are not here.” Sol Guy, the co-founder of DCM, and co-creator, co-producer, and host of MTV’s 4REAL teased the audience to let loose and not give “diplomatic claps” when applauding. A veteran artist manager, Sol is one of Canada’s leading music executives .4REAL is a community of individuals from around the world who are passionate about creating social change through action, art, and culture. K’Naan; (known for his rhymes and activism), belted out his memories of growing up in a war torn Somalia. Njakatiana, heart throb singer from Madagascar melted the hearts of the audience. Mike Hucknall from Simply Red sang “Come to My Aid” solo. The evenings band was made up of multi-instrumentalist and musical director for Paul Simon; Mark Stewart, Steve Jordan on drums, David Paich from TOTO on keyboard , Keaton Simon on guitar, and other award winning artists. Sol said, “We have a collective chance to make a radical change.” It was a treat to see The Junior Fountain Gospel Choir perform amongst the great artists of the world.

Dr. Kevin M. Cahill was presented with A Lifetime Achievement Award for his life long dedication of extraordinary service. Dr. Cahill said, “healing and solidarity are moral responsibilities for all of us.” He reflected upon his experiences in disease ridden Somalia in 1962, the embargoes on health care that affected Nicaurauga in 1987, first hand accounts of what is happening in Darfur, Chad and the Congo. He stated that he has “tried to heal the wounds of war.” Dr. Kevin M. Cahill, is a leading specialist in tropical medicine who worked in the streets of India with Mother Teresa. For more than 45 years, Dr. Cahill has been a driving force in humanitarian assistance and relief efforts around the world.

Largely responsible for putting the evenings festivities together were David NG; Chairman of the World Harmony Alliance and H.E. Ambassador Francis Lorenzo. Lorenzo stated that to achieve the MDGs, we need to develop a global partnership for development and to address the challenges effectively. Action and interaction are needed in all countries and from all sides: governments, business, non-governmental organizations, academia, community groups, individuals and United Nations entities

Jonathan Granoff ; author, attorney, and international peace activist who’s life's work is dedicated to the total elimination of nuclear weapons worldwide spoke. Granoff called the UN “home for everyone” saying, “While many worry about Wall Street, the majority of the poverty stricken in the world have no street.” Poverty levels around the world are deepening with each passing month. He said that $1.3 Trillion a year is spent on military.

Opening remarks were made by H.E. Miguel d’Escato Brockmann about the South South Corporation to help the worlds poorest and most vulnerable people. Other remarks were made by H.E. Nassir Abdlaziz Al-Nassar and Dr. Jeffrey D. Sachs. We were reminded of the Millennium Goal set in 2000 to bridge the gap between poverty and wealth. We have lost a decade when we expected to be closing the gap between the rich and poor. With recent economic downturns this goal is growing increasingly difficult.

The General Assembly was filled with government officials, international luminaries, renowned artists, astute members of society and celebrated figures. Those in attendance socially, sprinkled among world leaders and humanitarians were "Wealth manager to the stars" Barry Klarberg of Monarch Management, Michael Lohan with divorce lawyer Leslie Barbara, Robin Cofer and Dominic D'Alleva, Colleen and Gary Rein, Paola and Arni Rosenshein, new parents Dr. Howard Sobel and wife Gayle, James Cavello and Margarite Amleida of The Worldwide Children's Foundation of NY, Susan Needles: Director/Special Events for Henry Buhl's ACE for the Homeless, Dr. Serena Deutsch: Vice President of One Bright World, my children; Alana and Justin Galloway, publicist Nikki Klarberg, bejeweled and glamorous Iris Schwartz and Michelle Walker, bachelor extraordinaire Errol Rappaport,  the lovely Daniela Zahradnikova, jewelry designer Anne Besemant Cohen, Joseph Placide, Elliott Maynard; Founder of Arcos Cielos Research Center, and Paul Beck of Versace.   

The “lifetime achievement” recognition is being used to kick-off what will be an annual MDG awards event. Beginning in September, the awards program will shift to recognize individuals, organizations and nations that are making impressive progress in implementing the eight MDGs as established in 2000 by the United Nations. The goals are to be achieved by 2015 in response to the world’s primary development challenges.

Story by: Sara Herbert-Galloway
Photos by Steve Mack
some by Justin Galloway

NEW YORK - MARCH 17: The MDG Awards global launch event at the United Nations building on March 17, 2009 in New York City.

Tuesday March 17, 2009 - NEW YORK - Tuesday 17: The MDG Awards global ...

Updated: Jun 17, 2009 6:12am PST

Sharon Bush and friends Announce A Historic Night of Hope with Pastor's Joel and Victoria Osteen : March 4th, 2009. New York City.  Influential ladies Sharon Bush, Margo Lanenberg and Jean Shafiroff hosted a luncheon at New York City’s exclusive Le Cirque restaurant to announce Pastor’s Joel and Victoria Osteen’s upcoming event “A Historic Night of Hope”.  The luncheon crowd was sprinkled with a few gentlemen but was made up of many beautiful ladies who donned their finest attire to brave New York’s slushy streets on a blustery cold winter day to hear what the hostesses had to say. Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen are coming to New York and will be a part of the much awaited opening night ceremony at the Yankee Stadium.  Pastor Joel Osteen of Lakewood Church will be accompanied by GRAMMY award-winning worship leader Israel Houghton who will be the first music performer of any genre to perform at the new Yankee Stadium in New York City. The opening, “A Historic Night of Hope” will be on April 25th. A Gala dinner at Gramercy Park’s National Arts Club will be held on April 21st for those participating.

 Jean Shafiroff spoke of her dedication to the Osteen’s and their mission to help others including herself, heal through their Evangelical church. While introducing Sharon Bush, Shafiroff said that among many of Sharon’s accomplishments, her greatest was that she was given the National Mother of the Year Award in 2001. She also mentioned “Feedback”, a project that she and Bush are working on to raise money to feed children all over the world.

 Sharon Bush spoke of Joel Osteen saying, "He is like family to me, he helped me heal after my divorce.  With Joel's help I turned to the most powerful force in the universe." She says compassionately that Osteen “saved her” after she and her young children were left with little money after a bitter divorce compounded by her health problems. She wants to spread the message of hope to others through her support of the Osteen’s.  

 Dianne Bernhard, a fellow Texan, spoke of her discovery of the Osteen’s church years ago, saying it was on ‘the other side of town.’’  She remarked about the economic times and that we must find hope and deliverance from impossible trials. Bernhard, a stunning blonde lady, wearing turquoise, spoke with conviction about how her life was changed by Joel Osteen.

 Some guests were not familiar with Pastors Joel and Victoria Osteen when they arrived, but by the time lunch was finished, I feel that everyone left with some knowledge of their teachings and inspiration for hope. 

 On April 21st Sharon Bush will be hosting a special dinner welcoming Joel & Victoria to New York at The National Arts Club in Gramercy Park. Individual tickets for the Dinner, including attending the event at Yankee Stadium are:  $500, $700 & $1,000 Junior tickets (Age 30 & under) $350
Space is limited:  Please RSVP to:joyce@blacktiemagazine.com 

Story by Sara Herbert-Galloway

for more information and photos go to Black Tie International Magazine, Society News

Sharon Bush and friends Announce A Historic Night of Hope with Pastor's Joel and Victoria Osteen

March 4th, 2009. New York City. Influential ladies Sharon Bush, Margo ...

Updated: Mar 06, 2009 10:38am PST

Womes's Project 24th Annual Women of Achievement Gala : March 2nd 2009. New York City. The Women’s Project chose to honor the achievements of a distinguished group of women. Lucia Hwong Gordon, Composer and Instrumentalist; Estelle Parsons, Actor and Director; Susan K. Reed, Editor-in Chief of “O”, The Oprah Magazine; and Susan Sobbett, President American Express OPEN. These women were selected because of the significant contributions they have made and continue to make in their chosen fields. 

The host for the evening was Diana Williams, award winning reporter and anchor for Eyewitness News at 5:00pm. Esteemed presenters of the Honoree’s Awards were: B.D. Wong; actor of screen and stage, currently in his 9th season of Law & Order’s SVU, Arthur Penn; Director of such notable films as Bonnie & Clyde, The Miracle Worker, and Alice’s Restaurant, Serene Jones; the sixteenth president of Union Theological Seminary, and the first female president in the Seminary’s 172-year history, and Nell Merlino; President and CEO of Count Me In for Women’s Economic Independence. Ms Merlino is the creator of, Take Our Daughters to Work Day.

Honoree, Susan K. Reed thanked Julia Miles who strarted the Women’s Project in 1978 and spoke of the important need for current female artists to mentor the next generation of women. 
Honoree, Susan Sabbott shared her realization, “your efforts change the lives not only of the artist but the audiences.” Honoree, Estelle Parsons spoke of having known a world when there was no Women’s Project. She joked, “I chose acting over politics and law because I wanted a level playing field.”  Honoree, Lucia Hwong Gordon spoke of how greatly honored she was to be chosen by the Women’s Project stating that Tina Chen got her involved 10 years ago. Lucia said. “It is enlightening to support voices of women who shine the light on the issues of the world, that is why we are all here!”

I had a lovely time at the event and was very humbled by the brilliance of many leaders I had the honor of meeting. I am particularly honored to know Lucia Hwong Gordon. We met at a friends luncheon in the Hamptons several years ago. She has chaired and supported many philanthropic events, managed to compose music and be a loving mother to her beautiful twin daughters and a supportive wife to her dear husband Peter. Lucia has a very peaceful yet tireless energy. Time Magazine and the New York Times have honored Lucia by including her in a select group of America’s exceptional new composers. Her music for theatre includes the scores for the Tony Award winning Broadway production of M. Butterfly. It is said that Ms. Hwong’s music for television and film underscores social and political concerns such as Vietnam War Story/HBO, Hiroshima/NBC and many more.

MISSION:
Now under the leadership of Julie Crosby, Producing Artistic Director, Women's Project remains devoted to its mission of producing and promoting theater created by women. To that end, we:

*Provide women’s perspectives on a wide variety of political, social, international, religious, and cultural topics

*Produce established and emerging women artists at WP’s home, the Julia Miles Theater

*Mentor exceptional writers, directors, and producers through WP’s Lab

*Develop new works and classic plays by women in readings and workshops

*Commission new works and adaptations of classic plays by women

*Advocate on behalf of women theater artists within the national and international professional theater

*Educate students in grades 1-12 about the cultural and historic significance of women theater artists

*Celebrate women of achievement from a variety of fields at our annual Gala

*Awaken audiences and theater professionals to the power and range of women theater artists.

Story by Sara Herbert-Galloway

To learn more go to www.womensproject.org
For more society news go to www.blacktiemagazine.com 

To view more photos go to www.sdmackpictures.com and www.imagesofsociety.com
To view video coverage of the event go to: http://dearaddy.com or http://youtube.com/kaegi7800

Womes's Project 24th Annual Women of Achievement Gala

March 2nd 2009. New York City. The Women’s Project chose to honor th ...

Updated: Mar 06, 2009 9:25am PST

NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 2: The Drama League's 25th Annual All Star Benefit Gala. : Monday, February 2, 2009 - NEW YORK - February 2: NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 2: The Drama League's 25th Annual All Star Benefit Gala at the Rainbow Room in New York City. PHOTO CREDIT: © 2008 by Steve Mack | Booking Inquries Contact: Steve Mack | tel: 917.202.4358 |e-mail: steve@sdmackpictures.com | PLEASE NOTE: These images are available for licensing through S.D. Mack Pictures and The Herbert Collection.


The Drama League's 25th Annual Benefit Gala - "A Musical Celebration of Broadway"
 
February 2, 2009. New York City. The Drama League held it's annual Gala at the Rainbow Room high above the New York City skyline. The brightest stars of Broadway came out to bedazzle us in honor of beloved producers Stewart F. Lane and Bonnie Comley as well as to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Drama League Director's Project.
 
The Drama League described the Honorees as, "the powerhouse husband-and-wife producers Stewart F. Lane and Bonnie Comley." Adding, aptly nicknamed “Mr. Broadway,” Lane is a four-time Tony Award winner for Jay Johnson: The Two and Only (2006), Thoroughly Modern Millie (2002), The Will Rogers Follies (1991), and La Cage aux Folles (1984). Mr. Lane's producing career began in 1979 with Jerry Herman’s The Grand Tour starring Joel Grey; since that first venture, Lane has produced shows with some of the theatres brightest stars, including Liza Minnelli, Lauren Bacall, Raquel Welch, Debbie Reynolds, Harvey Fierstein, Keith Carradine, Martin Short, Marisa Tomei, and Sutton Foster. Teaming up with wife Comley in 2003, the two hit the Great White Way with Bernadette Peters in the revival of Gypsy, Alfred Molina in Fiddler on the Roof, Laura Bell Bundy in Legally Blonde, and Kevin Kline in last season’s acclaimed revival of Cyrano de Bergerac, other recent shows include Sunday in the Park with George, The 39 Steps, and the upcoming revival of American Buffalo.
 
One of the many highlights of the evening's grand dinner was a musical revue by Chita Rivera (Nine), Donna Murphy (Wonderful Town), Lee Roy Reams (La Cage Aux Folles) and Cady Huffman (The Producers.) Stars really let their talents shine in a night filled with music and song. The show included performances highlighting the careers of Lane and Comley, as well as past Broadway productions and the reuniting of original cast members from La Cage aux Folles, Urinetown and some cast members including Keith Carradine from The Will Rogers Follies performing their toe-tapping, sing-along hits. Cady Huffman, choreographed the evening with skill and grace.
 
The Drama League Directors Project, is the nation's leading career development program for early and mid-career theatre directors. Founded by former Drama League President Julia Hansen, The Directors Project is aimed at identifying and helping young, talented directors to bridge the gap between academic training and professional success. Through its partnerships with professional theaters across the US and its commitment to ongoing career development, The Directors Project uniquely supports aspiring theater artists in America. Notable alumni of The Directors Project include Christopher Ashley, Mark Brokaw, Michael Mayer, Diane Paulus, John Rando and Alex Timbers.

All proceeds from "A MUSICAL CELEBRATION OF BROADWAY" support The Drama League, which was founded in 1916 as an association of theatre professionals and patrons dedicated to encouraging the finest in professional theatre and has since then developed into the theatre's premiere service organization. To learn more go to www.dramaleague.org.
 
Story by Sara Herbert-Galloway 
For more stories go to www.blacktiemagazine.com
To view more photos go to www.sdmackpictures.com

NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 2: The Drama League's 25th Annual All Star Benefit Gala.

Monday, February 2, 2009 - NEW YORK - February 2: NEW YORK - FEBRUARY ...

Updated: Feb 04, 2009 4:48am PST

Best Buddies on The Forbes Yacht "The Highlander" : November 13th, 2008. New York City. Best Buddies Israel held a celebration onboard the Forbes' private yacht, "The Highlander" at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers. Guests were treated to cocktails, and a beautiful sail around Manhattan while dining. 
 
I learned about Best Buddies last spring when my friend Tatiana Platt was honored at The Crystal Pavilion in Palm Beach. I attended on her behalf and met  many wonderful humanitarians including Mike Marcus, Best Buddies Vice President of National Marketing. Mike kept me informed about the progress of Best Buddies. It is an amazing charity that has grown rapidly. It's speed in touching and changing individuals lives amazes me.   
 
Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment.
Anthony visited Israel in 2006. As a result, Best Buddies is now bringing its model for friendship and employment programs to Israel. If funding goals are achieved a job program will be initiated in 2009. There are an estimated 280,000 Israelis with intellectual disabilities who will benefit from the much needed programs Best Buddies will provide. 
 
Mission Statement: Best Buddies is a vibrant, international organization that has grown from one original chapter to more than 1,400 middle school, high school, and college campuses across the country and internationally. Best Buddies programs engage participants in each of the 50 United States and have accredited international programs on six continents with additional country programs under active development. There are six formal programs – Best Buddies Middle Schools, High Schools, Colleges, Citizens, e -Buddies and Jobs – it will positively impact more than 350,000 individuals this year.Best Buddies volunteers annually contribute services to the community that equate to more than $70 million USD.

Goal: "Even though Best Buddies has advanced tremendously in our short existence, many areas of the country and many regions of the world still lack programs to help people with intellectual disabilities become part of mainstream society. Our goal is to continue expanding nationwide and at the local community level, while more broadly engaging the global community through our programs. 
 
Photos and coverage by Sara Herbert-Galloway
To learn more go to www.bestbuddies.org 
To view more photos go to www.herbertcollection.com

Best Buddies on The Forbes Yacht "The Highlander"

November 13th, 2008. New York City. Best Buddies Israel held a celebra ...

Updated: Jun 10, 2009 9:22pm PST

Museum of the Moving Image Salutes Ben Stiller : Novmber 12th, 2008. New York City.  Ben Stiller was honored for his accomplishments by the Museum of the Moving Image at Cipriani 42nd Street. This was the 24th Black Tie Gala for the Museum. Ben Stiller is one of the great talents of American entertainment. A memorable actor, an accomplished director and writer, an Emmy-Award winner, and an innovative producer," said the Museum Director Rochelle Slovin, "Ben is also a great collaborator, and has partnered with the finest directors and actors working in film today."

A wide array of presenters who came out to wish him well. Amy Adams, Will Arnett, Jack Black, Sean Combs, Robert di Niro, Bill Hader, Shawn Levy, Mike Myers, parents Jerry Stiller and Ann Meara, and Triumph The Insult Dog, who left 'no insult unturned.'  Everyone had a funny story to share about Ben.  His parents spoke about Ben's childhood. They felt he was destined to be an entertainer recalling their days as performers in Las Vegas, saying that while they were on stage Ben was at the pool or being watched by the Pips and other performers.
 
We were entertained by scenes from Dodge Ball, Flirting with Disaster, Meet the Fockers, Zoolander, The Ben Stiller Show, Tropic Thunder, There's Something About Mary, and Permanent Midnight. An added bonus came when we were the first audience to be treated to a preview of the upcoming Night at the Museum2; Battle of the Smithsonian.
 
Ben said, "Great actors have the ability to choose the right roles and have hope that they can be anything they want." He spoke of his love of film making since he "was a kid."  Ben is the Museum's 24th Honoree, and joins an exceptional group of past recipients including, Tom Cruise, Will Smith, Robert di Niro, Richard Gere, Tom Hanks, Mel Gibson, Goldie Hawn, Dustin Hoffman, Ron Howard, Sidney Lumet, Steven Spielberg, James Steward, Robin Williams, John Travolta, Barbara Walters, Elia Kazan, and Billy Crystal.
 
The Moving Image Salute raises funds to support the Museum's educational programs, which serve over 30,000 intermediate and high school students each year. It is the only institution of its kind in the USA. The Museum of the Moving Image houses the world's most important film, TV, and digital media collection-more than 100,000 objects. To learn more go to www.movingimage.us 
 
Photo and story by Sara Herbert-Galloway
www.herbertcollection.com 
To view more stories go to www.blacktiemagazine.com
To view photos from the event go to www.patrickmcmullan.com

Museum of the Moving Image Salutes Ben Stiller

Novmber 12th, 2008. New York City. Ben Stiller was honored for his ac ...

Updated: Nov 16, 2008 3:34pm PST

Alana Morgan's  Space : November 15th 2008, Southampton, NY.  Alana Morgan Galloway celebrated her 11th birthday with friends.

Alana Morgan's Space

November 15th 2008, Southampton, NY. Alana Morgan Galloway celebrated ...

Updated: May 28, 2009 2:11pm PST

Life Project for Africa : November 12, 2008. New York City.

Life Project for Africa

November 12, 2008. New York City.

Updated: May 05, 2009 2:35pm PST

NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 2008: The American Friends of Jamaica's 27th Annual Gala and Auction at Gotham on Thursday, November 6, 2008 in New York City. : The American Friends of Jamaica Honor Lennox Lewis 
November 6th, 2008. New York City.  Lennox Lewis, three time winner of the Heavyweight Boxing Championship Title of the World took off his gloves and opened his heart for Jamaica last night.
The 6 ft 5 in boxing champion took an Olympic Gold Medal in 1988, last night he took a humanitarian award for his services.  Lennox was honored by The American Friends of Jamaica (AFJ) with an International Achievement Award for his involvement in a wide range of philanthropic organizations in Academia and Sports. Born in England, to Jamaican born parents, Lennox has made significant contributions and raised important  funds for charities in Jamaica.  His wife, Violet (former Miss Jamaica runner-up), accompanied him.

Some of the past honoree's of the prestigious AFJ award were Edgar and Louise Cullman, Chris Blackwell (Island Records), Ralph Lauren, and President Ronald Reagan. Last nights event was held at Gotham Hall and was chaired by Manuela Goren. Manuela and her husband James fell in love with Jamaica many years ago and have spent a significant amount of time and effort enjoying and helping the country. The event brought together many people wanting to express their love and support for Jamaica. I spoke with winter residents from Tryall, Round Hill and Rose Hall. Someone described Tryall as a blend of Nantucket and Palm Beach. Guests included corporate leaders, philanthropists, diplomats, and people from many different areas of life, some with Jamaican roots, some with no former ties to the country.  There was a lot of warmth amongst the guests in attendance,  maybe it was their love of the country shining through. I felt genuine Jamaican hospitality at its finest and that set the tone for the evening. Most people that I spoke to said, "You must come to Jamaica."

The Honorable Olivia (Babsy) Grange. Minister of Information Culture, Youth and Sports made an enlightening speech informing us of many of Jamaica's contributions to the world.  We all know that Jamaica has given us reggae music (thanks to Bob Marley and Chris Blackwell), but Jamaica has given us much more. Noble Prize winning scientist Paul Ehrlich, one of the main founders of chemotherapy, came from Jamaica,  some other notables are Usain Bolt,  the fastest man on the planet with a world record of 100 meters in 9.72 seconds, Asafa Powell is the world's second fastest man, Shelly-Ann Fraser from Kingston won the 100mt. at the Beijing Olympics however the record is still held by Florence Griffith-Joyner, and who could forget, the Jamaican Bobsled Team. No other Caribbean Island has a bobsled team in the winter Olympics. Babsy said, "We're little but we're awesome." There is a lot of truth to that statement.

Latania Bingham from Montego Bay spoke gratefully about James and Manuela Goren and their support for her.  She was accepted by an American University but could not afford to go. The Gorens invited her to America and gave her the most valuable tool, an education. She said that most of her friends in Jamaica dropped out of school, fell to drugs, teenage pregnancy and death. Latania plans to take the knowledge she learns in the US back to her country to help develop leadership skills in others.

Lennox Lewis was actually in Toronto the night before and was inducted into The Canadian Hall of Fame. He credited his mother for all of his accomplishments and spoke of, "this momentous time in history" referring to President Elect Barack Obama's victory. He said he would like to regenerate boxing in Jamaica to encourage youth and teach goals, stating that if Jamaica has so many great athletes, they could also have the best boxers in the world. This drew a large round of applause from the audience. Being the father of two young children, Lennox acknowledged that he would like to give Jamaican youths more to do than "stand around." Lennox is a role model to youth and has devoted himself to helping improve their lives by showing them what they can be. He truly deserves this honor. In fact, Lennox was one of the last people to leave. He and his wife graciously stayed to talk with guests and allow numerous photo ops for his fans.

The AFJ was established in 1982 to assist Jamaican charities in the areas of education, healthcare,  human and economic development.  The next event will take place in Miami on May 16th, 2009 and will honor Jamaica Ritz Carlton's Michele Rollins.
To learn more go to www.theafj.org.

Story by Sara Herbert-Galloway, Photos by Steve Mack

To view more photos go to www.sdmackpictures.com 
For more stories go to www.blacktiemagazine.com

NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 2008: The American Friends of Jamaica's 27th Annual Gala and Auction at Gotham on Thursday, November 6, 2008 in New York City.

The American Friends of Jamaica Honor Lennox Lewis November 6th, 200 ...

Updated: Nov 07, 2008 9:24pm PST

23rd Israel Film Festival : New York City, October 29, 2008. The 23rd Israel Film Festival kicked off its Opening Night at the legendary Ziegfeld Theatre in New York City. Guests of honor were award winning directors, writers and producers Danny DeVito, Irwin Winkler, and Edward Zwick. The Festival will visit the cities of  Miami in December and Los Angeles in June.
 
Talented comedian, actress, and singer Lainie Kazan was the Emcee of the evenings festivities. Michael Douglas, Mort Zuckerman, and Liev Schrieber were the Honorary Guest Presenters of the awards.  
 
Danny DeVito was accompanied by Rhea Perlman. He was presented with the IFF Lifetime Visionary Award by colleague Michael Douglas. Guest presenter Mort Zuckerman gave Irwin Winkler the IFF Lifetime Achievement Award. Edward Zwick received the IFF Outstanding Achievement in Film Award from Liev Schrieber. 
 
Guests enjoyed the US premiere of Rashef Levy's Lost Islands after the awards ceremony. The film was the biggest Box Office success in Israel in 2008.
 
A portion of the proceeds from the 23 rd IFF Opening Gala will provide scholarships to exceptional Israeli film students from six film schools in Israel including: The Sam Spiegal Film & TV School Jerusalem, Sapir Academic College Shderot, Ma'ale School of Television Film & Arts, Tel Aviv University Film and Television Dept., Hamidrasha Biat-Berl Collage and Tel Hai Communications Center for Cinema. To learn more go to www.israelfilmfestival.com 
Story and photos by Sara Herbert-Galloway
to view more stories go to www.blacktiemagazine.com

23rd Israel Film Festival

New York City, October 29, 2008. The 23rd Israel Film Festival kicked ...

Updated: Mar 31, 2009 8:16am PST

The Theatre Museum's Gala Pre-Awards Show Cocktail Party : New York City October 21, 2008.  Tony award winning producer Stewart F. Lane and stunning wife Bonnie Comley sponsored a red carpet pre-awards show cocktail party at the Player's Club last night. Upon ascending the stairs and entering the beautiful main room I was greeted by The Jingles Bell's girls serenading guests from another large winding stair case. I was surrounded by so much talent I felt as if I was in a Broadway show myself. 
Bonnie and Stewart were full of warmth and cheer as always. Guests and supporters included a bevy of photographers and journalists including Lee Fryd from Newsday, society photographer Rob Rich, author Ward Morehouse III accompanied by Rose Billings, Aaron Gandy, Barbara Cook, Rick McKay, Euan Morton, Tony Walton, Joe Loesser, Caroline Winston, and many other entertainers. 
The evenings honorees included American radio and television personality Joe Franklin, dubbed "the king of nostalgia" honored with The Lifetime Achievement Award , Five Towns College founder, Dr. Stanley F. Cohen, Rick McKay "Broadway: The Golden Age" honoree for The Theatre Museum's Award of Excellence for Theatre History Preservation to an individual, and The Theatre Museum of Repertoire Americana receiving The Award of Excellence for Theatre Arts Education. 
Founded in 2003, The Theatre Museum is New York State's first and only chartered non-profit museum dedicated to the history of theatre. It is a museum-at-large. It's primary mission is to preserve, protect and perpetuate the legacy of theatre through innovative programming. For more information go to www.thetheatremuseum.org. Photos featured on this site by Lee Fryd. To view more photos go to www.societyallure.com and www.patrickmcmullan.com 
Story by Sara Herbert-Galloway

The Theatre Museum's Gala Pre-Awards Show Cocktail Party

New York City October 21, 2008. Tony award winning producer Stewart F ...

Updated: Oct 22, 2008 1:19pm PST