Global Lyme Alliance (GLA) NYC Gala has returned for the foundation’s fifth annual fundraiser. The charitable affair has raised an impressive $2.5 million. The event was hosted by Rosanna Scotto, co-host of FOX 5’s “Good Day New York”. Global Lyme Alliance is dedicated to conquering Lyme and other tick-borne diseases through research, education, awareness, and patient services. The gala was produced by event planner Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events, who donated his event planning and design services towards the Global Lyme Alliance’s New York Gala for the fifth consecutive year.
The night started with a cocktail reception where guests mingled and enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres from Aureole restaurant. This year’s gala welcomed roughly 700 business leaders, philanthropists, noteworthy scientists, past honorees, board members and Lyme warriors including 2015 honoree, actress, author and Lyme advocate, Yolanda Hadid. Other notable guests included television personality and host, Dr. Oz., board member and past honoree, Erin Walker alongside PGA Tour Champion, Jimmy Walker, rising star of Netflix’s new hit series, “Family Reunion,” Talia Jackson, actor and entrepreneur, Crystal Hefner and television host, producer and author Genevieve Gorder, among many others.
Honoree’s included Bob and Karen Kelly, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, Lyme patients, and staunch advocates dedicated to finding a cure for this insidious disease; Adrienne Nolan-Smith, wellness and patient advocate, speaker and founder of WellBe, a media company, and lifestyle brand focused on bridging the gap between the healthcare system and the wellness movement and David Nolan, father of three Lyme survivors and former vice chairman of Millennium Partners.
With over $600,000 raised during the evening alone, top auction items included an ultimate VIP guest experience with Grammy-nominated pop-rock icon Avril Lavigne at Live in the Vineyard in Napa Valley, CA; an exclusive golf weekend with Jimmy Walker at his home course, The Club at Cordillera; and an intimate dinner for ten prepared by James Beard Award-winning chef Charlie Palmer.
Before the magical night came to an end, the legendary Big Apple Circus performed, followed by a heart-moving performance by 2019 TONY Award-Winner for “Best Leading Actor in a Musical,” Santino Fontana of the Broadway musical, Tootsie. Guests dined on a menu inspired by a master chef and American hospitality entrepreneur, Charlie Palmer.
Cheers to another charitable evening in New York City. To donate and find out more formation, please visit globallymealliance.org.
Photos: Getty Images