Last night, we went to the 10th annual Celebration of Hope Gala at The Watergate Hotel.
Hope Connections has been supporting cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones for more than 12 years. We snapped Dr. John Marshall, gala co-chair Liza Marshall, and founders Paula Rothenberg and Bernie and Bonnie Kogod, who lost family members to cancer and have since dedicated this organization to them.
The Celebration of Hope award was presented to Paula Rothenberg, the Partnership Award to S.C. Herman & Associates and the Volunteer Award to May Benatar and Alfie Lattimer, who have generously provided time and financial support so programs can be offered at no cost to participants. Here, RGW's Rich and Lisa Garfinkel, Phyllis Aaronson and board member Bob Fleshner.
More than 300 guests mingled at the cocktail reception before enjoying a three-course, sit-down dinner with poached pear salad, braised halibut and warm chocolate coulant. Here, Susan Bogart, board member Larry Bricker and Elizabeth Richardson.
The silent and live auction included whiskey tastings, vintage paintings, and a trip to San Francisco and Napa. Proceeds from the gala will go toward free support groups, educational workshops and community programs. Here, Pathway to the Future's Kelley Edelblut, Elizabeth Altman and board chair Gary Altman.
