Tag: gala

Categories
Design

DIFFA by Design Takes Over Center 415

DIFFA BY DESIGN

The Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA) is kicking off the season with their annual fundraising extravaganza, DIFFA BY DESIGN, at Center 415 from March 24 to 26.

A formal gala co-hosted by DIFFA Chair Emeritus Architect David Rockwell and featuring live performances and appearances from special guests such as actress Jane Krakowski, Broadway star Amber Man, members of the cast of Company, and DIFFA Board Chairman Cindy Allen, will take place on Thursday, March 24, to kick off the three-day event. The next day, Friday, March 25, guests are invited to DIFFA NIGHTS, a dance party featuring classic grooves and iconic fashion. Throughout the event, guests can view unique vignette installations from brands including Gensler, Steelcase, Carl Hansen & Søn, Jeffrey Beers International, and Florim, all at Center 415. Additional programming, such as panel discussions, a loom installation by Suzanne Tick, a pop-up shop from Robert Verdi, and a silent auction, will also take place during the three days to further activate and engage guests.

DIFFA BY DESIGN is emerging this year at a pivotal movement in the non-profit’s 50-year history, as the organization recently expanded its mission to also address challenges relating to homelessness, food scarcity, and mental health illness in the AIDS-afflicted community. Proceeds from the event will go towards supporting DIFFA’s partner organizations which contribute direct aid to impacted individuals and groups. For tickets, head to diffa.org/diffa-by-design/. To learn more about Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS, check out Downtown Magazine’s profile on DIFFA Executive Director Dawn Roberson in our Summer 2021 issue, The Reformers.

Categories
Culture Events

Oliver Scholars Gala Honors Black and Latino Students

Oliver Scholars, a nonprofit organization serving high-achieving Black and Latino students, hosted the Fifth Annual Oliver Scholars Gala, on May 8th, 2018. At the Gala, Oliver Scholars honored Carmine Di Sibio, Global Managing Partner for Client Service at EY, and CNN Anchor Don Lemon, for their industry achievements. Oliver Scholars also recognized the graduating class of 2018 and bestowed three scholars awards for achievements in leadership, service, and scholarship. The evening celebrated changing lives through the power of education and was hosted by NBC Rise Actor and Oliver Scholars Alumna, Shirley Rumierk.

The event took place at Guastavino’s, located at 409 E 59th Street in New York City at 6:30 p.m.

Oliver Scholars prepares gifted Black and Latino students from underserved New York City communities for success at top independent schools and prestigious colleges. The organization provides crucial support for Scholars through highly competitive programs, and in offering academic, social, and leadership skills development.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1kLbNlaeQZVd-URawpR8HtkhmeeSxo_iv
Labeebah Subair ’18, winner of Scholar Award for Excellence in Scholarship

“When a young person demonstrates ability and the potential it is essential to create access to a path that will foster their development,” says Chantal Stevens, Interim CEO of Oliver Scholars. “These young people are the next generation of thought leaders and trailblazers. Through our programs, we ensure exceptional students from New York City are prepared to lead successful lives.”

Each year, the Oliver Scholars Gala brings together over 300 philanthropists, activists, and those who believe that every student in New York City deserves access to the best resources. The funds raised by the Gala support the organization’s comprehensive classes, workshops, and counseling sessions. These resources prepare students for the accelerated pace of independent schools and prestigious colleges.

“The funds raised from the annual Gala allow us to support these exceptional students with academic preparation and placement into top schools,” said Gala Committee Chair Timothy Pope. “The generosity of the Gala donors helps in providing these extraordinary Scholars with access to opportunities they would not have had otherwise.

Founded in 1984, Oliver Scholars is distinctive among access programs for its commitment to providing transition support for the whole family. It also strives to develop students’ social-emotional skills, and instill an essence of giving back within them. The Oliver experience includes up to 12 years of one-on-one support – from middle school through college graduation – after-school and summer coursework, and pre-career training.

For additional information visit: www.oliverscholars.org

Categories
Events NYC

New York Mission Society Annual Champions, Children Gala

The New York Mission Society, held its annual Champions for Children Gala on Tuesday, April 24, 2018, to support educational programs and support services that help youth and families in New York City’s underserved communities break the cycle of poverty and achieve success. This year’s Gala Co-Chairs were Katrina & Don Peebles, Leah & Stanley H. Rumbough, and Jean & Martin Shafiroff.

The Gala, attended by more than 330 people, was held at the Mandarin Oriental in Columbus Circle overlooking Central Park and featured music, dance, and a program including awards presentations.

Legendary Cathy Hughes, Founder, and Chairperson, Urban One, Inc. (which includes TV One and Radio One), received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her myriad, trailblazing accomplishments in media, and Mannie Jackson, 2017 Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and President, Mannie Jackson for the Humanities Foundation, received the Dina Merrill Hartley Public Service Award, named after the longtime actor and philanthropist whose family has supported the Mission Society for generations.

Mannie Jackson, Elsie McCabe Thompson, Francis W. Kairson Jr., Cathy Hughes2018 Champions for Children Gala

Other awards were presented to LTC Francis W. Kairson, Jr., Ret., Director Emeritus, of the Mission Society; BNY Mellon; and, International Flavors & Fragrances.

“We are celebrating those who have been committed to empowering others to achieve their dreams,” said New York Mission Society President Elsie McCabe Thompson.  They embody a profound commitment to make the world a better place, one full of promise and of opportunity, particularly for our younger generations.”

WABC News Anchor Bill Ritter, a longtime supporter of the New York Mission Society, emceed the event, C. Hugh Hildesley, Vice Chairman of Sotheby’s, served as auctioneer, and Alex Donner and his Orchestra and students from Mission’ Society’s free afterschool GRIOT music program performed.

Reflecting on the New York Mission Society’s storied history, Ms. McCabe Thompson spoke about the organization’s increased focus on education through initiatives such as Learning to Work, the free afterschool music program GRIOT, and the summer and afterschool program, Power Academy, and its plans to provide even more opportunities in the future.

“From our earliest days, we have provided access to services. We have created programs that have benefited people who needed a chance, but who didn’t always see a light at the end of their tunnel,” she said. “For 206 years we have opened doors, we have changed lived, and we have brought out the best in those we served – – individuals who had the ability but often came to us without the skills or self-confidence to realize their full potential.

WA_0067 Amelia Ogunlesi, Jean Shafiroff, B. Michael, Valerie Simpson

Gala Champions were: International Flavors & Fragrances; Katrina & Don Peebles; Leah & Stanley Rumbough; and Jean & Martin Shafiroff. Visionaries are BNY Mellon; Fiona & Stanley Druckenmiller; and, Yemi & Patrick Vatel. Advocates are Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP’ MacFarlane Partners; and, Stifel Financial Corporation.

Among the notable attendees at the event were: Jean & Martin Shafiroff, Don & Katrina Peebles, Amelia Ogunlesi, Yemi & Patrick Vatel, b. Michael, Valerie Simpson, Elsie McCabe Thompson, William Thompson, Cathy Hughes, Mannie Jackson, Victor DeSouza, Randi Schatz, Tanja Dreiding Wallace, Anthony Marx, Michele Herbert, Lucia Hwong Gordon.

Categories
Entertainment Events Fashion

2017 Met Gala: Our favorite looks

The 2017 Met Gala has come and gone. As per tradition, the Gala was on the first Monday of May at New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art and followed by the opening of the Costume Institute exhibition. Celebrities from everywhere flew to New York City for this event, having planned their attire months in advance with some of the world’s most renown designers.

This year’s theme for the exhibition and Gala is the following: “Rei Kawakubo/Comme des Garçons”. For the first time since 1983, the show focuses on a living designer. The opening of the Costume Institute exhibition will be held today, May 4th and will feature around 120 Comme des Garçons womenswear designs by Kawakubo.

Here are some of Downtown’s favorite looks from Monday night’s gala.

1. Stacy Martin in Miu Miu

2. Dakota Johnson in Gucci

3. Laura Osnes in Christian Siriano

4. Lily-Rose Depp in Chanel

5. Bee Shaffer in Alexander McQueen

6. Zendaya in Dolce & Gabbana

7. Blake Lively in Atelier Versace and Ryan Reynolds

8. Alexa Chung in Diane Von Furstenberg

9. Adriana Lima in Alberta Ferretti

10. Gigi Hadid in Tommy Hilfiger

Categories
Culture Living

Spring has Sprung at the Battery Conservancy

The Battery Conservancy

While open to the public every day of the year, the Battery Conservancy embraces spring with a lineup of exciting events and activities for New Yorkers of all ages. America’s largest perennial garden is the perfect oasis in Lower Manhattan to get away, and enjoy the warmer weather.

The Battery Conservancy

On May 8th at 8am, nature enthusiasts can join NYC Audubon, an organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of wild birds in the five boroughs, for a bird walk. Lead by experienced birder and naturalist Gabriel Willow, participants will have the opportunity to observe the diverse species that call the Battery their home. Those interested can RSVP here.

The Battery Conservancy Annual Gala

On June 8th, the Battery will host it’s 22nd Annual Gala. This year, the festivities will celebrate Hermès, as well as the cultural richness of Lower Manhattan. Cocktails will be served at 6:30pm, and dinner will commence at 7:30pm. Those interested in reserving a ticket for this enchanting night can contact Elizabeth Steeves.

The Battery Conservancy

Beginning April 13th, weekly walking tours through the soon-to-be lush gardens of the Battery  will be available. Participants will learn about the park’s history, visit important monuments and landmarks, and get a small break from the hustle and bustle of the Financial District. Not to be missed is the Seaglass Carousel, designed by the George Tsypin Opera Factory, for an otherworldly aquatic-inspired experience. Those interested can RSVP here.

The Battery Conservancy Volunteer Opportunities

Downtowners looking to give back to their community can join the Battery’s Horticulture Team. Volunteers help permanent staff maintain the beauty of the gardens by completing a minimum of 8, 2.5 hours shifts over the course of the calendar year on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Those plagued with a black thumb who still wish to help out can become a Battery Greeter, and help welcome visitors to the park. Information on both opportunities can be found here.

Urban Farming at the Battery Conservancy

The Battery also prides itself on being an organization that educates students on the importance and potential of urban farming. Groups from pre-K to 12th grade can be registered for self-guided or staff-guided field trips. Visits include everything from hands-on farming lessons, learning the history of NYC’s urban ecosystem, and tastings, if seasonably appropriate. More information on registration can be found the conservancy’s website.

The Battery Conservancy

Categories
Fashion

Best Looks From Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Gala

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The stars were dazzling last night at the annual Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Gala 2014 on the Upper East Side.

This year’s gala  honored  British-born designer Charles James, who revolutionized American fashion in the mid-20th century, along with iconic Vogue editor Anna Wintour.

Celebrities ranging from First Lady Michelle Obama to Diane Von Furstenberg to Jessica Alba to Kim Kardashian walked the red carpet up into the lobby of the museum that was exquisitely decorated by an enormous mannequin covered with around 10,000 flowers that symbolized the beauty and elegance of the designs of the legendary couturier.

“The mind combines with the body to exploit its senses, its functions, its appearance,” James once said, and that philosophy was obvious in the beautiful gowns, poise and allure of the celebrities, luminaries and socialites that attended the event.

The event is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive social occasions in New York and one of the biggest fundraising nights of the city with a reported nine million dollars raised last year, alone.

Here are our picks for the top looks of the amazing evening.

-Paris Amaro.