Lupus Research Alliance Welcomes Steve Burke, Selena Gomez, Seth Meyers and Kelli O’Hara to the 2017 Breaking through Lupus Gala

Raises Over $3.2 Million for Lupus Research

November 21, 2017 – New York, NY – The Lupus Research Alliance celebrated the 2017 Breaking through Lupus Gala to shed a spotlight on breakthroughs from the previous years, and the importance of lupus research to deliver discoveries to come. With the generous support of nearly 700 attendees, the landmark event raised over $3.2 million – with every dollar going directly to fund lupus research programs.

Major supporter, NBCUniversal CEO Steve Burke was recognized for his strong dedication to corporate responsibility and innovation.  The 2017 Gala honoree commented, “NBCUniversal is honored to support those affected by lupus worldwide with a contribution of $1 million to fund the best in scientific study through the Lupus Research Alliance.”

One of the most influential performers worldwide, Selena Gomez joined the Lupus Research Alliance celebration to share her story for the first time directly with the lupus community and the organization she generously supports. Ms. Gomez flew straight to the Gala from her triumphant return to the stage at the American Music Awards in Los Angeles the previous evening.

“I am supporting the Lupus Research Alliance because they are getting results, and that’s what gives people with lupus the most hope,” said Ms. Gomez.  “I’d like to see the day when all young women can realize their dreams of a life without lupus.”

Ms. Gomez and The Honorable Michael R. Bloomberg served as Honorary Co-Chairs of the Lupus Research Alliance Gala, the largest single lupus fundraiser in the world.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

NBCUniversal held a starring role for the night with several of Mr. Burke’s colleagues serving as Gala co-chairs: Brian Roberts, Chairman and CEO, Comcast Corporation; Ron Meyer, Vice Chairman, NBCUniversal and Lorne Michaels, Creator and Executive Producer, Saturday Night Live. In addition, Seth Meyers, host of NBC-TV Late Night, emceed, delighting guests with his signature sharp humor. Lupus Research Alliance Co-Chairmen Ira Akselrad, President, The Johnson Company and Richard K. DeScherer, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, Bloomberg L.P. also co-hosted the evening.

The Gala also honored Lupus Research Alliance Immediate Past Co-President and Co-CEO Margaret G. Dowd for over 20 years of impassioned dedication to advancing lupus research.  Mr. DeScherer noted, “Peggy was one of America’s pioneers in novel lupus research, not as a scientist but as an inspirational spark, fostering talent and embracing innovation.”

Having just earned rave reviews as the lead in Brigadoon, Tony-award winning Kelli O’Hara brought new life to such Broadway favorites as I Could Have Danced All Night and I Have Dreamed.  She noted a personal connection to lupus and sang You’ll Never Walk Alone as a reminder that working together, “you’re never alone”.

Adding to the excitement, New York’s iconic Empire State Building lit up purple and red to help the Lupus Research Alliance raise awareness of the disease and the importance of scientific research. 

About Lupus

Lupus is a chronic, complex autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. More than 90% of people with lupus are women, most of whom are diagnosed between the ages of 15 to 44. Women of color are especially at risk. In lupus, the immune system, which is designed to protect against infection, creates antibodies that attack the body’s own tissues and organs — the kidneys, brain, heart, lungs, blood, skin, and joints.

About the Lupus Research Alliance

The Lupus Research Alliance is transforming the lives of people affected with lupus by financing the most innovative lupus research in the world. The organization’s stringent peer review grant process fosters diverse scientific talent who are driving discovery toward better diagnostics, improved treatments and ultimately a cure for lupus.  Because the Lupus Research Alliance’s Board of Directors fund all administrative and fundraising costs, 100% of all donations goes to support lupus research programs.

Click here to learn more about how the Lupus Research Alliance is breaking through with the innovative research necessary to improve treatment while driving to a cure.

2017 Lupus Handbag Luncheon Supports Science with Style

NEW YORK, NY – April 4, 2017. Nearly 300 prominent women and men from New York’s fashion, society, entertainment, publishing, philanthropic and lupus communities came together today to raise funds for lupus research. The 8^th annual Lupus Handbag Luncheon & Silent Auction was the first hosted by the Lupus Research Alliance, formed by the recent merger of the Alliance for Lupus Research, Lupus Research Institute and S.L.E. Lupus Foundation.

Lauren O’Steen Yetman from Ted Baker is wearing head-to-toe Ted Baker!!

Maria Travlos from Montreal is wearing Tristan & Iseut.

Betsy Cherkasky is wearing a classic leather top with pants by Worth. Her scarf is Hermes, her bag is by Fendi and her shoes are made by Aquatalia.

Nadine Spring is wearing a dress by Banana Republic, shoes by Calvin Klein, a bag by Michael Kors. Her scarf is a treasured gift from someone who went to Turkey.

Andrea Abrams is wearing a Delpozo jacket, her pants are by St. Laurent, shoes are by Gucci. David Chines is wearing a Valentino suit, his shoes and shirt are by Gucci.

Viktoria Cameron is wearing a MaxMara dress, Her bag is Hermes.

Carla Alalu is wearing a Chloe top with Alice & Olivia slacks, and is carrying a Karen Mitre bag. Karen Mitre is wearing a Karen Mitre bag, dress by Alexander McQueen. Her boots are by Stuart Weitzman.

Katherine Saunders is wearing a Giorgio Armani outfit with Prada shoes and purple bag for a pop of color.

Women of Achievement Saluted

The 2017 Women of Achievement were: Claudia Cividino, Chief Executive Officer, Bally Americas and Alison Lee, Lupus Warrior, Cancer Survivor and long-time Lupus Advocate and Volunteer. Both honorees have worked with the organization for years in the fight against lupus.

“I knew that accepting the Woman of Achievement award meant that today, April 4, 2017, would become a red-letter day in my life as the moment I shared that I am not an empathetic bystander, but an active participant in this cause as a woman living with lupus myself,” commented Ms. Cividino. “The disease has never defined me but rather, has informed how I lead my life.”

“I also hid my lupus as if it was a shameful secret,” Ms. Lee shared.  “I never wanted to be known as ‘the sick girl’. But when I found this organization, I met other young women with lupus and realized I wasn’t alone, and have no reason to hide. The Lupus Research Alliance is a beacon of hope amid the health battles I face.”

Founder of the fashion and retail services consultancy firm Abrams Global, Andrea Abrams chaired the luncheon, enlisting industry colleagues to donate numerous luxury handbags. Honorary luncheon co-chairs include: Matilda Raffa Cuomo, Former First Lady of New York State, Founder and Chair of Mentoring USA; Jessye Norman, international opera legend and long-time voice for lupus worldwide; and Brett Heyman 2015 luncheon honoree and founder of the fashion company Edie Parker.

2017 Women of Achievement: Claudia Cividino and Alison Lee

The Auction Room

Carole Hochman, Mary Belle

Karen Mitre, Jennie DeScherer, Andrea Abrams

Teri Wilford-Wood

NY’s Leaders Turn Out for Lupus

Many members of the Lupus Research Alliance leadership were actively involved in planning the luncheon including Jennie and Richard DeScherer, Fern Kaye Tessler, Carol Weisman and Teri Wilford Wood.  Noted philanthropists and socialites in attendance included Felice Axelrod, Arlyn Gardner and Joan Sarnoff.

Fashion Luminaries Put Lupus Cure in the Bag

The fashion industry was out in full force with leaders from design, retail and editorial including: Nancy Berger, Publisher, Marie Claire; Carole Hochman, Chief Creative Officer, Carole Hochman Design Group; David Chines, Founder + CEO at COPIOUS ROW; Elizabeth Schweitzer Miller, Director, Merchandise Planning & Allocation at Bloomingdale’s; Laura Pomerantz, Vice Chairman And Head Of Strategic Accounts, Cushman & Wakefield; Velvor Rhone, Chief of Staff, Bloomingdale’s; Claudia Silver, Executive Fashion Director, Town & Country Magazine; and Craig Tharkur, Chief of Staff, Bally. Lupus Research Alliance volunteer and fashion industry leader Mary Belle was an active participant in the Luncheon Committee.

A silent auction featured close to 90 handbags donated by top designers to fund lupus research.  In addition, exclusive “experiences” were a first this year!

“A hallmark of the New York spring season, this year’s luncheon is the first hosted by our new organization,” bringing new perspective, new energy and new enthusiasm,” said Co-CEO Margaret G. Dowd.  “We welcome this increased support as we unify the lupus community behind one mission – to free the world from lupus through the power of science.”

Thanks go to Modern Luxury for providing guests with the latest issue of Manhattan Magazine.

 About Lupus

Lupus is a chronic, complex autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. More than 90% of lupus sufferers are women, mostly young women between the ages of 15 to 44. Women of color are especially at risk. In lupus, the immune system, which is designed to protect against infection, creates antibodies that attack the body’s own tissues and organs — the kidneys, brain, heart, lungs, blood, skin, and joints.

About the Lupus Research Alliance

The Lupus Research Alliance is the largest private funder of lupus research, united to free the world from lupus by harnessing the power of innovative science to make a difference for people living with the prototypical autoimmune disease.  Through the power of collaboration, we are relentlessly focused on seizing every opportunity to transform the lives of all affected – patients, families, loved ones and the entire lupus community.

# # #

Lupus Research Alliance Inaugural Gala Honors Founding Board & Pfizer Inc. – Raises Over $2.5 Million for Lupus Research

November 22, 2016 – New York, NY – The newly merged Lupus Research Alliance celebrated its debut at the Inaugural Gala, uniting the three world leaders in lupus research as the driving force for better treatments and a cure. In just one night, the country’s largest lupus fundraising event raised over $2.5 million – with every dollar going directly to support lupus research. The organization unveiled its iconic new symbol in grand style, marking its identity as the catalyst, champion and creator of scientific innovation in lupus and autoimmune disease.

Lupus Research Alliance Chairman and CEO of the New York Jets, Robert Wood “Woody” Johnson IV, co-hosted the evening with Vice-Chair Richard K. DeScherer, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, Bloomberg L.P. along with founding Board members Robert Pittman, Chairman and CEO, iHeartMedia, Inc. and Carol Weisman, long-time supporter and lupus patient. As emcee, Emmy-winning journalist, lupus advocate and devoted mom to her daughter with lupus, Brenda Blackmon charmed the crowd with her vivacious warmth.

Freda-Lewis Hall, MD, DFAPA, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer accepted the Corporate Leadership Award on behalf of Pfizer Inc for their ongoing dedication to improving lupus treatment. “Our commitment to patients with lupus is tied closely to our mission to develop new, safe and effective therapies, especially where there is high medical need. We are proud to collaborate with the Lupus Research Alliance because together we are stronger and smarter than either of us alone.”

“We recognize Pfizer tonight as an exceptional partner in the lupus community,” said Mr. Johnson. “The company’s vision closely aligns with our own – to apply the finest science to improve health across the globe. And we share a deep commitment to work not just for the patient, but with the patient to develop the best possible treatments.”

All 18 members of the Lupus Research Alliance Founding Board of Directors were honored for their visionary leadership in uniting the Alliance for Lupus Research, Lupus Research Institute and S.L.E. Lupus Foundation into one organization with a singular quest to free the world of lupus through the power of science.

 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

“Tonight we recognize the leaders who spearheaded this historic merger,” noted Mr. DeScherer. “Every person on our Board either has lupus or cares deeply about someone who does. That personal connection is transformed directly into action to accelerate the emerging science we need to find better treatments and a cure.”

Watch this video to experience the enthusiasm of the 600 guests in the room as the new symbol and identity of the new Lupus Research Alliance came to life in its very first public appearance.

About Lupus

Lupus is a chronic, complex autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide. More than 90% of lupus sufferers are women, mostly young women between the ages of 15 to 44. Women of color are especially at risk. In lupus, the immune system, which is designed to protect against infection, creates antibodies that attack the body’s own tissues and organs — the kidneys, brain, heart, lungs, blood, skin, and joints.

 About the Lupus Research Alliance

Born from the merger of three organizations with a common belief in the potential for science to overcome lupus, the Lupus Research Alliance is at the forefront of driving innovative research that can make a difference for people living with the prototypical autoimmune disease. With that shared conviction, the Board of Directors promises to fund all the organization’s administrative and fundraising costs, ensuring that 100% of all public donations go directly to funding research programs to realize our vision of a world free from lupus.

More information can be found at www.lupusresearch.org.

2016 CancerCare Gala Raises $1 Million

Event Honored Bloomingdale’s Frank Doroff and Bristol-Myers Squibb

April 21, 2016 – New York, NY – CancerCare, the leading national nonprofit organization providing free, professional support services to anyone affected by cancer, raised $1,000,000 at its annual Gala, which took place yesterday at Cipriani 42nd Street. More than 500 members of New York City’s philanthropic, fashion and health care communities attended the event, and honored the contributors who make it possible for people with cancer and their families to benefit from CancerCare’s services, including counseling, educational workshops and publications, childcare, transportation to treatment, and financial assistance.

Frank Doroff, Vice Chairman, Bloomingdale’s was honored with the 2016 Help and Hope Award for his commitment to supporting CancerCare’s mission. Bloomingdale’s Chairman and CEO Tony Spring presented the award to Doroff, acknowledging his decades of dedication to the organization, and highlighting his “unwavering commitment to the people who have sought CancerCare’s support.”

Bloomingdale’s Chairman and CEO Tony Spring presenting Frank Doroff, Vice Chairman, Bloomingdale’s with the 2016 Help and Hope Award

Upon receiving the award, Mr. Doroff, who lost his wife, Kate, to cancer at just 49 years old in 1993, shared “I was very lucky to have the support of my family and friends, as well as my Bloomingdale’s family, and often think about others dealing with cancer who do not have this same level of support and resources. I appreciate that CancerCare is there for them in so many ways, during such a difficult time for families and loved ones.”

CancerCare CEO Patricia J. Goldsmith announced a generous $100,000 gift made by Dorothy Schachne, CancerCare Board of Trustees member, in memory of her husband, David.

CancerCare CEO Patricia J. Goldsmith and Dorothy Schachne, CancerCare Board of Trustees member, who made a generous $100,000 gift in memory of her husband, David

Goldsmith proceeded to honor Bristol-Myers Squibb with the 2016 Partnership Award for the company’s dedication to helping people living with the disease, and acknowledged the vital role the company played in transforming CancerCare from a community organization to an incredible national resource over the past 73 years. Teresa Bitetti, Senior Vice President, US Oncology, Bristol-Myers Squibb accepted the award on behalf of the organization.

At the encouragement of Event Chairs Annette and Andrew Pizzo, attendees also offered enthusiastic applause for the CancerCare social workers who serve people with cancer and their families each day, more than a dozen of whom were in attendance. One of the most moving speakers of the evening was Michael Hahn, who lost his wife Karissa to cancer and was joined on stage by his 6-year old son Ryan.  Together, they shared how CancerCare’s Healing Hearts Family Bereavement Camp helped both of them, along with Ryan’s 9-year old brother Ethan, learn how to joyously celebrate Karissa’s life and connect with other families who were experiencing the same challenges.  Michael reinforced to attendees how important this was to his family, saying “You made a difference in our lives.”

 

Event Co-chairs Annette and Andrew Pizzo; Honoree Frank Doroff, Vice Chairman Bloomingdale’s; Ryan Hahn and dad Michael Hahn, who shared how they were helped by CancerCare; CancerCare CEO Patricia J. Goldsmith, and Michael Parisi, President, CancerCare Board of Trustees pose at the 2016 CancerCare Gala

Led by Sotheby’s auctioneer Hugh Hildesley, the live and silent auctions featured more than 100 selections of fine wines, exquisite dinners, luxury items, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and vacation getaways. These included a basketball signed by all 11 legendary members of the 1992 Gold Medal Men’s Olympic Basketball Team, tickets to the smash Broadway hit “Hamilton” with memorabilia signed by cast member and cancer survivor Javier Munoz, and two 5-course private dinners for 15 guests prepared by Chef Pasquale Martinelli. Auction Co-Chairs were Marsha Palanci & Edward Lauber.

CancerCare Gala 2016 Committee Members include Michael Baraldi, Carolyn Bernstein, John Brierty, Renata and Flavio Figueiredo, Susan and Paul Friedman, Carmen Garcia, Joshua Goldsmith, Jason Greenstone, Renee Nicholas, Elizabeth Ostow, Lori and Michael Parisi,  Heather and Michael Schechter, Cornelia and Rob Spring, Michael Tumminia, Susan Smirnoff and Kirk Zachary, Anna and Burt Zweigenhaft.

Chef Pasquale Martinelli, founder of WarmPalate.com, who donated two dinners to the CancerCare Gala Live Auction which raised $36,000

Cipriani 42nd Street is set up in style for the 2016 CancerCare Gala

 

Supporters John and Gerry Gentile, CancerCare CEO Patricia J. Goldsmith and Michael Parisi, President, CancerCare Board of Trustees

Cornelia Spring ,Board of Trustees member, Chef Pasquale Martinelli, and Rob Spring

About CancerCare

Founded in 1944, CancerCare is the leading national organization providing free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer. Our comprehensive services include counseling and support groups over the phone, online and in-person, educational workshops, publications and financial and co-payment assistance. All CancerCare services are provided by oncology social workers and world-leading cancer experts. Headquartered in New York, NY, CancerCare maintains three additional locations in Norwalk, CT, Ridgewood, NJ and Syosset, NY.

To learn more, visit http://www.cancercare.org or call 800-813-HOPE (4673).

The largest lupus fundraiser in the world raised close to $3 million for innovative research that can save lives while advancing toward a cure

December 1, 2015 – New York, NY – The Alliance for Lupus Research (ALR), Lupus Research Institute (LRI) and S.L.E. Lupus Foundation celebrated their first joint dinner at the “Moving Forward Together to Fight Lupus” Gala that heralded their upcoming merger. The largest lupus fundraiser in the world raised close to $3 million for innovative research that can save lives while advancing to a cure. The gala was held at the iconic Waldorf Astoria and the venue looked as beautiful as the donors.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Megan Hilty, the Broadway, film and singer/actress on NBC’s Smash, brought the audience to its feet with her powerful voice and Hollywood glamour. Having starred in 9 to 5: The Musical, and Wicked, Megan returns to Broadway this December in the revival of Noises Off.

Founder of the Alliance for Lupus Research and Chairman and CEO New York Jets, Robert Wood “Woody” Johnson IV, and Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO, iHeartMedia, Inc. co-hosted the evening with Richard DeScherer, President of the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation and Chief Legal & Compliance Officer, Bloomberg L.P. and Robert J. Ravitz, Chairman, Lupus Research Institute. Television broadcaster, lupus advocate and devoted mom to her daughter with lupus, Brenda Blackmon, served as emcee with inimitable warmth and charm.

Michelle Ifill accepted the Corporate Leadership Award on behalf of Verizon Communications, Inc. for their long-time support of the ALR’s research initiatives and contributions to the lupus community. Thousands of Verizon employees have attended ALR Walkathon events across the country and have raised more than half a million dollars by going out and fundraising on their own.

The 2015 Visionary Award recognized the outstanding contributions of two extraordinary women with lupus — S.L.E. Lupus Foundation founder Susan Golick and Jennie DeScherer, dedicated member of the Boards of the Foundation and Lupus Research Institute. Three-term Mayor of New York City, entrepreneur and philanthropist Michael R. Bloomberg presented Jennie with her Visionary Award, describing her as an “inspiring example of someone who won’t let this disease get in the way of living her life to the fullest.” Presenting the award to Susan, LRI and S.L.E. Lupus Foundation Board member Jerry Chazen thanked her for launching the lupus movement in America 45 years ago and for her continued involvement in helping shape the organization’s growth.

“Tonight we honor the champions who had the extraordinary vision and pioneering spirit to support the most novel research,” noted Margaret G. Dowd, President and CEO of the Lupus Research Institute and Executive Director of the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation.  “We support patient-centric research which means that everything is about the patients and for the patients.”

“This year’s Gala celebrates the strength of the lupus community as it brings people from ever-widening circles together to fight for a common cause,” said Kenneth M. Farber, President of the Alliance for Lupus Research.  “The upcoming merger of the ALR with the Lupus Research Institute and S.L.E. Lupus Foundation is enormously exciting as the culmination of our ongoing collaboration and the launch of the world’s largest group dedicated to advancing innovative research in lupus.”

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Six hundred guests attended included Matilda Cuomo; Edward and Arlyn Gardner; Bonnie Englebardt Lautenberg; Brett Heyman; Donald Newhouse; Joan Sarnoff; Fern and Lenard Tessler; and Carol and Michael Weisman. Governor Andrew Cuomo was not able to attend but sent a letter of congratulations and Assistant Secretary of Health Tracie Gardner in his stead.

About the Alliance for Lupus Research
The Alliance for Lupus Research (ALR) is a national voluntary health organization dedicated to finding better treatments and ultimately preventing and curing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, or lupus). The organization is based in New York City and chaired by Robert Wood Johnson IV. Since its founding in 1999, the ALR has given more money to lupus research than any non-governmental agency in the world. To date the ALR has committed nearly $100 million to fund the most innovative and aggressive research into the cause, prevention and cure of lupus.  The board of directors funds all administrative and fundraising costs, allowing one hundred percent of all donations from the public, and the proceeds of our signature grassroots fundraising program, Walk with Us to Cure Lupus, to go directly to support research programs. More information can be found at lupusresearch.org.

About S.L.E. Lupus Foundation and Lupus Research Institute
Formed 45 years ago, the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation is dedicated to advancing lupus research, patient education, advocacy and awareness. In 2000 the Foundation helped launch the Lupus Research Institute to support only bold novel research in lupus – the creativity and innovation needed to drive scientific discovery in this complex autoimmune disease. Together the organizations have generated over $200-million for cutting edge lupus research, delivering many of the most pivotal scientific breakthroughs of the past decade. Today the LRI is the world’s leading private supporter of innovative research in lupus. Learn more at LupusNY.org and LupusResearchInstitute.org.

The S.L.E. Lupus Foundation Celebrates Innovation at Gala 2014

November 24, 2014– New York, NY – The S.L.E. Lupus Foundation and the Lupus Research Institute raised $2 million at the annual Life Without Lupus Gala to support novel research that can transform patients’ lives while advancing towards prevention and a cure. Close to 600 members of the metropolitan New York’s philanthropic, government, business, art, music, society and health care communities joined to “Celebrate Innovation” in lupus research and care.

Seventeen-time Grammy-winner and beloved singer for seven decades, Tony Bennett was introduced via videotape by his collaborator and close friend Lady Gaga. She noted, “Fighting lupus is a cause very close to me, my family and to my friend, the one and only Mr. Tony Bennett.”

This year’s Gala Honoree Iris Cantor, Chairman and President of the Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Foundation, was celebrated as a trailblazer in bringing the power of philanthropy to transform medical research and care. Particularly fitting, the award was presented by Herb Pardes, M.D., retired president and chief executive and current executive vice chairman of New York-Presbyterian Hospital’s Board of Trustees. There Ms. Cantor led the creation of the Iris Cantor Women’s Health Center as well as New York’s first men’s health center. She noted, “Philanthropy and innovation go hand in hand. Through philanthropy we can accelerate the path from concept to practice.”

As Scientific Honoree, Bahija Jallal, Ph.D., Executive Vice President, AstraZeneca, Head of MedImmune was recognized for her leadership in helping the company fulfill its commitment to furthering biomedical innovation that can change the face of autoimmune treatment. “We believe great science will bring great medicine.”

As the biggest single lupus event and highly-anticipated annual fundraiser, the Gala was appropriately held at another larger-than-life New York institution, the American Museum of Natural History. New York City’s chic crowd came out to support the cause in some of fall’s best looks:

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

One of the city’s beloved television personalities, NBC’s Today Show Co-host Willie Geist entertained as Master of Ceremonies for the fourth consecutive year. Opera legend Jessye Norman served as Honorary Gala Chair and Gala 2014 Dinner Chairs were: Jennie and Richard DeScherer; Anna R. Fisch; Susan Golick and Alan Wasserman, D.D.S.; Bonnie Englebardt Lautenberg; Pamela and Arnold Lehman; and Bing Yao, Ph.D.

Other prominent guests included Former Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg; philanthropists Edward and Arlyn Gardner; Joan and Arthur Sarnoff; Carol and Michael Weisman; Christina and Robert Baker; and Fox-TV political commentator Jeanine Ferris Pirro; and Miss New York 2014 Jillian Tapper.

 

A live auction conducted by Sotheby’s Chairman Jamie Niven generated donations for research and services to help people with lupus now and in the future. Thanks go to Modern Luxury for providing copies of the latest issue of Manhattan Magazine.

About S.L.E. Lupus Foundation and Lupus Research Institute

Formed over 40 years ago, the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation is dedicated to advancing lupus research, patient education, advocacy and awareness. In 2000 the Foundation helped launch the Lupus Research Institute to support only bold novel research in lupus – the creativity and innovation needed to drive scientific discovery in this complex autoimmune disease. Together the organizations have generated over $185-million for cutting edge lupus research, delivering many of the most pivotal scientific breakthroughs of the past decade. Today the LRI is the world’s leading private supporter of innovative research in lupus.

Looking for a Sexy Chic Popup? Look No Further Than the Hottttt “House of Triumph”

New York, NY – August 21 2014 – Triumph Lingerie, the 127-year-old lingerie brand widely recognized around the world as “The Maker of Lingerie”, proudly announces House of Triumph- a multi-use brand space located at the Old Bowery Station in Manhattan. House of Triumph is open now through September 10th.

Triumph will host a series of events including a luxurious pampering day for women and a premium sample sale – designed to encourage New Yorkers to experience the world of Triumph.

The luxury spa day takes place this Saturday, August 23rd from 2pm-6pm. Invited guests will enjoy an afternoon of champagne, canapés, manicures and massages. Triumph’s Tailoresses will also be on site to offer personal bra fittings and ensure guests walk away with a perfectly fitted bra. Long Island residents will be transported to NYC in style with complimentary pickup and drop off from both Long Island Triumph Lingerie stores (Walt Whitman and Roosevelt Field malls). See in-stores for details.

The premium sample sale- taking place on September 5th, 6th and 7th – will give guests an exclusive preview of the upcoming Autumn/Winter collections while offering past seasons lingerie at reduced prices. Triumph bras, panties, shapewear, nightdresses, swimwear and loungewear will also be available for up to 50% off.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

“Creating an elevated & innovative experience for our customers has always been Triumph’s strength. We pride ourselves on our unparalleled fit, beautiful design and the highest quality lingerie that cater to self-confident women who share in our appreciation for style, fit and comfort. These offerings will be on full display at House of Triumph,” says John Groman, General Manager of Triumph US. “Having seen great success at our stores on Long Island, we are so excited to integrate into the fashion forward culture of Manhattan in advance of a new store opening in 2015. We believe that Triumph lingerie will resonate with the women of New York as they share our appreciation for both quality and design.”

Address:
The Old Bowery Station
168 Bowery, New York, NY, 10013
Lingerie lovers are welcome to RSVP to HouseofTriumph@exposure.net.

For more information and all the latest from Triumph, please visit triumph.com or follow them at @triumph_us on Instagram & Twitter.

How to Organize Your Financial Life, by Thomas J. Santucci CIMA®

The successful management of financial resources can be equally challenging for businesses and individuals alike. But while businesses have accounting departments, we usually have just ourselves to rely on for the basics, before getting expert advice. These basics are important and include formulating and prioritizing your financial goals and organizing your accounts in a way that will help you accomplish them.

Most of us have an IRA, a 401(k), or more than one, a savings account, perhaps a taxable brokerage account and/or a variety of other savings or investment accounts. All these accounts need taking care of in order to fulfil their function, that is, provide you with a sufficient supply of funds at a given point in the future. Successful money management starts with setting specific goals that you need this money for. You could assign a goal for each account or you could group your accounts around a goal. You could also assign more than one goal per account and then manage these accounts based on the goal they go towards accomplishing. Here are five practical tips to follow after the goals have been set:

• Pay Bills Online — Online payments are quicker, easier and secure. Going paperless can save you time and money, and it is also easier to track your expenditure. Besides, most banks offer a round-the-clock electronic payment services, which is much more convenient than being constrained by work hours.
• Consolidate/Group IRAs together — Every type of account has certain advantages for specific investment or savings goals. Grouping them based on their type and, therefore, primary goal will make it much easier to manage these accounts.
• Track Your Progress with a Monthly Review — Take some time each month to review how your finances are doing and if you need to change something in the way you manage them. Investment opportunities change and so do returns, so keep an eye on your funds and review them regularly.
•  Invest in Personal Finance Software — To organize all this information, which tends to be quite a lot, you might want to consider some software management tool. You can choose something as simple as an Excel spreadsheet for your basic accounting or you could try a specialized money management tool that will relieve you of much of the hassle around keeping your accounts and investments in check.

Whatever technical option you choose, the management of your finances should be primarily focused on the goal, not the account. Still, it could be a complex, exhausting undertaking, especially for those who have more funds to manage. This is where professional investment advice comes in.

Gateway Investments, LLC prides itself on offering its clients comprehensive investment advice, based on the specific goals they have set themselves. Aware that the top financial priorities for anyone are security and independence, Gateway’s advisors can tailor highly personalized investment options, taking into account the particular needs of every client and what their risk appetites are. Through face-to-face meetings, these advisors will draw on their professional experience and the company’s ample resources to provide you with the best investment roadmap that would help you accomplish your financial goals.

*Securities, insurance and advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates Inc., member FINRA/SIPC.  Gateway Investments, LLC is not an affiliate of Royal Alliance Associates Inc. or registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor.

Defeating Lupus is in the Bag

NEW YORK, NY – April 28, 2014 –

Hundreds of leaders in New York’s fashion, entertainment, travel, philanthropic and lupus communities turned out to support the fight against lupus at the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation’s sixth annual New York Bag Ladies Luncheon. Raising nearly $400,000, the sold-out event featured Emmy-winning Project Runway host Tim Gunn as Master of Ceremonies.

Women of Achievement Honorees

The 2014 Women of Achievement honored were: Desiree Gruber, President and CEO, Full Picture, Co-Creator & Executive Producer, Project Runway and Co-Founder, Theodora & Callum; Lisa R. Sammaritano, MD, Associate Attending Physician, Hospital for Special Surgery and Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College; and Michelle Gadsden-Williams, Managing Director and Global Head, Diversity & Inclusion, Credit Suisse. The three honorees were recognized for their outstanding professional accomplishments in their respective fields as well as their help in advancing the fight against lupus.

“I feel it’s my responsibility to help gain awareness for a disease that particularly targets women,” said Ms. Gruber.  “The Bag Ladies Luncheon is the perfect opportunity for the fashion industry to support the very women they serve on a daily basis.”

Michelle Gadsden-Williams, Jessye Norman, Tim Gunn, Desiree Gruber

“The S.L.E. Lupus Foundation and the Lupus Research Institute have played an important role in the continued focus on lupus research at Hospital for Special Surgery,” said Dr. Sammaritano. “In addition, we care for many shared patients, providing both medical and social support so no one has to face lupus alone.”

Ms. Gadsden-Williams noted, “I joined the Board of the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation because, as a lupus patient myself, I strongly believe in the organization’s vital mission – supporting science and service. I strive to empower myself and others to overcome the challenges of living with this difficult disease.”

Star-Studded Attendees

There to honor Ms. Gadsden-Williams was Cissy Houston, gospel singer and mother of the late pop superstar Whitney Houston. Attending to celebrate another Woman of Achievement was Ms. Gruber’s actor-husband Kyle MacLachlan, well-known for his roles on the TV shows Sex and the City, Desperate Housewives, Portlandia, Believe and How I Met Your Mother.

Honorary co-chairs were Matilda Raffa Cuomo, Former First Lady of New York State, Founder and Chair of Mentoring USA and opera legend Jessye Norman.  Miss Norman commented, “As an artist, I have always refused to believe in limits. Today we are raising the funding for research that will allow young women with lupus to go beyond the limits of this disease to pursue their dreams.”

Melany Hearne Martins, Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Exantas Capital LLC, chaired the Bag Ladies Luncheon this year. The Foundation’s Board was well represented by founder Susan Golick and members Bonnie Englebardt Lautenberg; Jennie DeScherer, Fern Kay Tessler; Betsey Selkowitz; Carol Weisman; and Kate Kelly.  The Foundation’s growing Young Leadership Group were among the guests and volunteers, helping make this annual fundraiser a major success.

Stars and stylish attendees graced The Plaza in New York City for this 6th annual fundraiser which raised over $300,000 for Lupus.

Several fashion luminaries attended including Anne Keating, Senior Vice President of Public Relations, Special Events & Corporate Philanthropy at Bloomingdale’s, Inc.; Danielle DiFernando, Founder of Danielle Nicole Handbags; and Foundation board member Mary Belle, President, Licensing at The Jones Group which encompasses iconic lifestyle brands such as Anne Klein, Jones New York and Nine West.  Noted philanthropists and socialites included Phyllis Mack, Denise Wohl, and Lady Va Maughan.

Bags Brimming with Promise

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

“We thank everyone who helped make this event an unprecedented success,” said Margaret Dowd, Executive Director, S.L.E. Lupus Foundation. “While the annual Bag Ladies Luncheon is great fun, the reason we’re here is quite serious – to raise the necessary funds to advance the most novel and innovative research. Our Foundation helps people live with lupus day-to-day, but the best way we can help long-term is to deliver better, safer treatments as we pursue a cure. ”

About Lupus:
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or lupus, is a chronic, complex and serious autoimmune disease affecting more than 1.5 million Americans. Nine out of 10 people with lupus are women. In lupus, the immune system, which is designed to protect against infection, creates antibodies that attack the body’s own tissues and organs — the kidneys, brain, heart, lungs, blood, skin, and joints. Lupus is difficult to diagnose, difficult to treat, and a leading cause of premature cardiovascular disease, kidney disease and stroke among young women.

About the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation:
Formed over 40 years ago, the S.L.E. Lupus Foundation leads the nation in providing direct patient support, education, public awareness, as well as funding for innovative lupus research on the national level. The S.L.E. Lupus Foundation is a member of the Lupus Research Institute National Coalition of patient groups throughout the country. Visit LupusNY.org for more information.

A Business Owner’s Dream Come True

By Michael J. Kessler, Profitability Consultant and CPA

To read more about what Michael does, go to MichaelKesslerCPA.com.

As a business owner, your primary responsibility is to increase the salable value of your business.  That’s right because, whether you are going to pass your business on to future generations or sell it to your employees or even divest to a third party, it can be very financially rewarding for you and your family.

So how can you increase the value of your business?  Here are three of the best ways:

1.     Strengthen the predictability of your revenue streams – That starts with marketing and ends with more marketing.  Keep investing in the right marketing strategies especially during tough economic times. That’s when most of your competitors are running scared and slashing their marketing budgets – often times to zero!

I’ll share an example. It comes from an independent source knowing very little about business just yet – my youngest son.  Prior to going on active military duty, he went to work for a home remodeling business in the Pacific Northwest.  He was on the demolition crew, the roofing crew and the painting crew working on three or four large jobs per week.  Throughout his ten months on the job, he always said how busy they always were.  When I asked how everyone else in the remodeling industry was doing out there, he told me, after asking the owner, that many of his competitors no longer exist.  Because even in the aftermath of the 2008 recession, his boss, the sole owner of the business, kept investing heavily in marketing while most of his competitors did not.  This kept him first-in mind and highly credible with his prospects to get him a ton of new work over the past several years as well as recurring work from many of his customers.  And that has created a powerful and growing referral network for his business.

Prospective buyers of that business would love seeing this – the higher the probability of predictable growth in your sales pipeline and revenue stream, the higher the premium they would pay if they bought your business.

2. Have systems in place that produce predictable results that are reproducible virtually every time – Every function in your business has a system.  Whether production related, fiscal management related, sales & marketing related, HR related, virtually anything you do to operate your business should have a documented system. Prospective buyers of your business value turnkey systems that are simple to operate.  They will more often than not pay a nice premium for your business if you have those systems in place and operating effectively.

3.  Have a strong management team at all levels of the business – Prospective buyers see a one man show and they immediately perceive higher risk and thus a lower value in the business.  Even the smallest businesses should have lower level people (even outsourced partners) executing their systems flawlessly. Prospective buyers generally don’t want to come in and have to reinvent the wheel.  If they did, they wouldn’t have to pay you for the business!

So business owners, do everything you can to increase the salable value of your business because in the end it’s not about how much you make, it’s about how much you get to keep!

Michael J. Kessler is a Profitability Consultant and CPA with a completely fresh approach beyond traditional accounting. Mr. Kessler’s background is running small businesses which ultimately became employee-owned and then acquired by multibillion dollar public companies. Mike has been interviewed on NBC’s America’s PremierExperts® TV show, and has appeared on CBS, ABC and FOX Affiliates around the country.  On April 28th at the Image of Success Networking Series event at Seasons 52 in Garden City, NY, he will present “Secrets to Making Your Business Soar into the Roaring 2020’s”.