May 8, 2003

The New York Dinner Gala

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The 28th Annual New York Gala marked the second consecutive year that the Dinner raised in excess of $2,000,000!

Many, many people were responsible for this year’s success; the dinner was co-chaired by the Dinner Chairman from the previous four years: Robert J. McCann (2002), Denis P. Kelleher (2001), James F. Higgins (2000) and Christopher M. Kip Condron (1999).

These men led a veteran Dinner Committee which worked tirelessly to benefit the Gala.

The esteem in which our co-honorees, John G. Duffy and Thomas F. O’Neill are held by their colleagues became evermore apparent as people became first time supporters of the night to show their respect and admiration for these two men, who had done so much to rebuild their lives and businesses after the attacks on September 11th.

From the room décor to the floral centerpieces to the ladies’ flowing gowns – spring was finally in full bloom at the Waldorf!

Guest Review
The Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, NY City provided a magnificent setting to The American Ireland Fund’s 28th Annual New York Dinner Gala. Following the welcoming cocktail reception nearly 1,300 guests converged on the magnificently decorated Grand Ballroom.

Spring was reflected on each table, draped with in deep cerise cloth, which contrasted with fresh lime covered seating. Eyes were drawn to the center-piece, a luscious silver bowl of fresh Spring flowers reinforcing the color theme of the evening. Small candles set between the goblets coupled with soft lighting provided elegant illumination for the special night that lay ahead.

The night commenced with welcoming remarks from Kingsley Aikins and an introduction to one of the 2003 Dinner Co-Chairmen, Christopher M. “Kip” Condron. Following remarks on the mission of The American Ireland Fund, Kip Condron acknowledged his Co-Chairs, Mr. James F. Higgins, Mr. Robert McCann and Mr. Denis P. Kelleher.

This year The American Ireland Fund was proud to honor Mr. John Duffy, President and Chief Executive Officer of Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, Inc. and Mr. Thomas F. O’Neill, Principal of Sandler O’Neill Partners, L.P. as recipients of The Leslie C. Quick, Jr. Leadership Award. This award was named after the late Mr. Leslie Quick, a generous benefactor to the Fund both in New York and Palm Beach.

The American Ireland Fund selected these honorees as recognition to ‘the quiet strength and tenacity’ exhibited by them following the destruction and rebirth of their respective companies following the tremendous losses experienced by their World Trade Center Headquarters on 9/11/01.

Following the Invocation by Rev. Donald Harrington, a beautiful three course dinner was enjoyed by all.

Loretta Brennan Glucksman, Chairman of The American Ireland Fund introduced the most memorable aspect of the evening. The American Ireland Fund is helping support the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Dublin, Ireland by making a flagship grant of $1,000,000 to the event. The importance of this event, to be held for the first time outside the United States, was obvious to us all as we watched a short video complied of magical moments of complete elation and smiles from the faces of competing athletes at the games.

The Games significance was further reinforced when Rita Lawlor, a Board member and athlete of The Special Olympics, brought guests to their feet as she spoke about her past participation in the games and the Sponsor-an-Athlete Campaign.

Before they left the stage, Rita Lawlor and Loretta Brennan Glucksman introduced the evening musical performance, ‘Cherish the Ladies’. The band are one of the most successful and sought after Irish American groups on the Celtic music scene. Their unique blend of instrumental arrangements, beautiful vocals and step dancing was without doubt a toe-tapping experience!

Following AIF President Kingsley Aikins' closing remarks, guests retreated to the beautiful East Foyer for dancing and the Irish Coffee bar where a great night was enjoyed by all.

It was a privilege for me to have the opportunity to attend and participate in this year’s annual New York Dinner.

Orla Sheedy
Intern, Boston office