Isabella Honors Leaders at its Annual Fall Gala

On a crisp October evening more than 300 250 of Isabella’s friends and benefactors danced the evening away at the Annual Fall Gala. The “Raise the Roof” soiree offered a sumptuous dinner, fabulous entertainment and an unparalleled view of the New York City skyline from Tribeca Rooftop’s outdoor patio.

Mark Lipton, Isabella’s Board Chair and Mark Kator, Isabella’s President and Chief Executive Officer, hosted the evening’s events. Several awards were presented for outstanding contributions to the field of aging and to the northern Manhattan community.

Ms. Ann Berson, currently the Vice President of Public Policy for the Alzheimer’s Association, was honored for a distinguished career of more than 40 years in advocacy, leadership and scholarship in the field of aging. Prior to her position as Vice President of Public Policy for the Alzheimer’s Association, Ms. Benson was Executive Director of the Home Care Council of New York City and Executive Director of the PRIDE Institute of St. Vincent’s Hospital.

Coogan’s Restaurant, long a stalwart in the northern Manhattan community, was honored for their visionary leadership in promoting intergenerational communication and cooperation among all residents of Northern Manhattan. A leader in business and community endeavors over the past several decades, Coogan’s Restaurant initiated the annual “Salsa, Blues and Shamrock Run” – a nationally recognized walk-run that brings young and old alike together for fun and good health. As part of the Coogan’s team, Isabella honored Washington Heights native and Executive Chef, David Hunt, poet, playwright and House Manager, Peter Walsh and Catering Manager, Tess O’Connor McDade.

Isabella presented the first Leslie Foster Award for Community Activism to Most Reverend Gerald T. Walsh, D.D. Born and raised in Washington Heights, Bishop Walsh served the northern Manhattan community for more than 20 years . He has providedproviding outstanding leadership in advocating for the neediest in our community. and guidance to the elderly, disabled and the needy – and to the caring professionals who work on their behalf each day.  He has served on the boards of more than 15 community organizations in the fields of education, housing, crime prevention and services for seniors and the disabled.  Bishop Walsh is also a longtime member of Isabella’s Board of Directors. 

The Gala, co-chaired by Dr. Eric Garfinkel and Dr. Eric Redlener, brought in more that $250,000 to benefit Isabella’s nursing home, senior housing and its many community based programs. All who attended look forward to the 2010 Fall Gala, which will be held on October 14th. (perhaps put a contact in for those who want to find out more)

For further information about the upcoming Gala,
contact Isabella’s Marketing Department at (212) 342-9356.