HOLIDAY 2022 SIMPLY INSPIRING Giving this Holiday Season Philanthropists Unite Across America Idina Menzel Chef Daniel Boulud Gavin DeGraw and More! Stars Shine
We have all been through so much these past years. Needless to say the world is not the same place it was not long ago. But despite all the changes, the one good thing that remains the same is the incredible work of countless charitable foundations.
From state to state volunteers and board members are the heart of humanitarian work. How different would our world be if it were not for so many philanthropists who sacrifice and give it their all to help those most in need.
While we applaud their efforts it seems poignant to recognize their endeavors especially during the holidays. Tis’ the season for giving.
The Magazine Lifestyle proudly salutes the men and women who are proudly taking the time to help with causes near to them such as the foundations we feature in our special holiday issue.
From supporting America’s veterans to giving love to our four-legged friends as well as to giving gratitude for those helping bring an end to cancer, the year 2022 is an important reminder of what really matters in life.
Whether you are a millionaire making big donations to medical centers or a kid setting up a lemonade stand to raise money for a local animal shelter, we love what you do. In these pages we showcase the great work of great humanitarians.
Happy Holidays from our team who is giving a warm embrace to you all as we embark into a new year. May you find room in your heart to get into the season of giving and be full of joy.
Sincerely,
Renee M. Wagner
Renee M. Wagner Editor in Chief/ Publisher
Be sure to follow us on all social platforms for all the exciting news ahead and ways to get involved!
TheMagazineLifestyle.com
@TheMagazineLifestyle
TMLMediaCompany@gmail.com
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Cover Photos
Idina Menzel and Chef Daniel Boulud: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
Gavin DeGraw: Catherine Ross
Gavin DeGraw Veteran’s Day Concert Raises Funds for Friends with Benefit Charity Events
On November 11, 2022, Friends With Benefit Charity Events hosted a heartfelt Veterans Day USO concert featuring Gavin DeGraw in Wilmington, North Carolina to roaring applause. The “One Tree Hill ‘’ hitmaker elevated the crowd on the special day that hosted a singer showcase that gave proud support for active military and veterans. Hundreds of attendees that also included dedicated fans of the performer gathered from all the corners of the world for the memorable moment.
DeGraw, who is a big supporter of the US military, was in attendance to share his talents and to help FWB Charity Events raise money for the United Service Organization. USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country, throughout their service to the nation.
FWB Charity Events hosts annual celebrity fundraisers to help various charities around the world. To learn more about future fundraisers go to fwbcharityevents.com or follow FWB Charity Events on Instagram at @fwbcharityevents.
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Photos © 2022 Catherine Ross for Friends with Benefit Charity Events
Gavin Degraw and FWB Charity Events Raenia Agostino at the Veterans Day 2022, USO fundraiser concert at the TRIC venue in Wilmington, NC.
It was a moment that defied gravity.
Idina Menzel’s Special Performance at Prostate Cancer Foundation’s
Annual New York
Dinner Helps Raise Millions for Research
The Prostate Cancer Foundation 26th Annual New York Dinner showcased the incredible talents of award-winning performer Idina Menzel. The intimate benefit at famed Restaurant Daniel in Manhattan, raised $4 million to support its research programs.
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Special Musical Performer Idina Menzel
John Paulson, Alina de Almeida
Rob Citrone, Cindy Citrone
Larry Leeds, Ginger Leeds
Michael Milken
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
Supporting PCF’s programs and achievements made in the past quarter-century through the organization, guests came out on the wintery night to honor the groundbreaking achievements and the work of founder Michael Milken, who is dedicated to identifying and funding groundbreaking cancer research programs.
Menzel took the stage for a lively act that included hits from her show stopping Broadway numbers in “Rent” and “Wicked.” The memorable evening that welcomed leaders in medicine, top research scientists, and distinguished New York City socialites all got into the rhythm during the Tony winner’s harmonious performance that had the entire room singing along to her hit song from “Frozen.”
Menzel’s captivating acts during the lavish dinner party was just one special highlight on a very special night. Milken and Charles Ryan also gave updates on the work of the Foundation encompassed the on-going work of the PCF’s Young Investigator (YI) program as well as the PCF’s inaugural TACTICAL (Treatment According To Intercept Cancer Lethality) Awards which aim to develop new therapies against the most lifethreatening forms of prostate cancer.
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Eric Schmidt
Kari Kalstad, Larry Baer
Idina Menzel
Jill Bikoff, Darius Bikoff
Charles Ryan
Neil De Feo, Sandy De Feo
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
Additionally, the Home Run Challenge (HRC) partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB) was highlighted, which has participation from every MLB Team of which some of the team owners (Larry Baer (San Francisco Giants), Jerry Reinsdorf (Chicago White Sox), Thomas Ricketts (Chicago Cubs), Mark Walter (LA Dodgers) and long-time PCF Ambassador (and former New York Yankees Manager) Joe Torre were present.
Notable attendees included Chef Daniel Boulud, Master Mentalist Oz Perelman, Special Musical Performer Idina Menzel, Rob Citrone, Cindy Citrone, Thomas Ricketts, Cliff Robbins, Darius Bikoff, Andrew Tisch, Ann Tisch, Mark Walter, Jerry Reinsdorf, Joe Torre, Ali Torre, Larry Baer, Larry Leeds, Ginger Leeds, Eric Schmidt, John Paulson, Alina de Almeida, Jill Bikoff, Neil De Feo, Sandy De Feo, Igor Tulchinsky, Tom Lee, Daria Barry and Bonnie Pfeifer Evans.
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Master Mentalist Oz Perelman
Mark Walter, Michael Milken, Igor Tulchinsky
Joe Torre
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) is the world’s leading philanthropic organization dedicated to funding life-saving prostate cancer research. Founded in 1993 by Mike Milken, PCF has raised close to $1 billion in support of cutting-edge research by more than 2,200 research projects at 245 leading cancer centers in 28 countries around the world. Thanks in part to PCF’s commitment to ending death and suffering from prostate cancer, the death rate is down by over 50% and countless more men are alive today as a result. PCF research now impacts more than 73 forms of human cancer by focusing on immunotherapy, the microbiome, and food as medicine. Learn more a www.pcf.org .
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Mark Walter, Larry Baer, Jerry Reinsdorf, Joe Torre
Igor Tulchinsky
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
Inside the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation Annual Collaborating for a Cure Gala
The 25th Annual Collaborating for a Cure Gala celebrated its silver anniversary at Cipriani Wall Street this fall. More than $4 million was raised towards the goal of funding the next five years of crucial SWCRF cancer research programs such as the Partnership for Aging and Cancer Research Program, the SWCRF Institute Without Walls, and the Women’s Cancer Research Program.
CBS’s Chris Wragge served as emcee of the night that welcomed 700 guests and honorees.
“Tonight, we have a great program to celebrate two giants in the fight against cancer”, said the host.
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Michael Nierenberg, Elin Nierenberg, Marion Waxman, Samuel Waxman, M.D. Samuel Waxman, M.D., Marion Waxman
Gala Honorees Michael Nierenberg and Samuel Waxman, M.D. Gala MC Chris Wragge
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
Founder and CEO Dr. Samuel Waxman, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award, spoke about his vision for a future in which cancer does not have to be a disease associated with aging. “The incidence of cancer is increasing, in part, as a by-product of improvements we are making in human longevity,” said Dr. Waxman. “But through our collaborative research programs, we can flatten this curve. I am thrilled to be a part of many amazing breakthroughs that have occurred in cancer research – with more to come.”
Upon receiving the Vision and Leadership Award, SWCRF Board Chairman Michael Nierenberg commented, “The real honorees are Dr. Waxman and the great heroes like him who treat and cure cancer every day.”
Special guest, author and breast cancer survivor, Musa Mayer, shared why she has been a longtime supporter of SWCRF and very generously offered a $1 million match for all donations made during the gala.
“I will be celebrating my 80th birthday soon thanks to the work of this foundation and Dr. Samuel Waxman,” said Mayer.
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Musa Mayer
Marion Waxman, Sandra Dugoff, Julie Waxman, Eliz Waxman, Samuel Waxman, M.D., Jack Waxman, Sophia Bergan
Mt. Joy
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
Notable attendees who were treated to a live musical performance by MT. JOY included SWCRF Gala Event Chairs, Spencer Waxman, Nicholas Santoro, Baron Silverstein, Marc Taub and Gala MC, Chris Wragge, Elin Nierenberg, Marion Waxman, Sandra Dugoff, Julie Waxman, Eliz Waxman, Jack Waxman, Sophia Bergan, Mario Pecoraro, Chris Arlotta, Mark D. Friedman, Jeremy Hoffman, Sara Waxman, Bettina Waxman, Scott Waxman, Bryan Griffin, Katya Tolstova, Nadja Sayej, William T. Sullivan, Erica Fineberg, and Robin Lathrop.
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Michael Nierenberg, Samuel Waxman, M.D.
Chris Wragge, Michael Nierenberg
Samuel Waxman, M.D., Dr. Josep Llovet, Alan Rosmarin, Dr. Ethan Dmitrovsky, Jonathan Licht
Jeremy Hoffman, Sara Waxman, Bettina Waxman, Spencer Waxman, Marion Waxman, Samuel Waxman, M.D.
Mario Pecoraro, Chris Arlotta, Marion Waxman, Samuel Waxman, M.D., Mark D. Friedman
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
ABOUT THE SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION (SWCRF)
The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information about the SWCRF research, visit www.waxmancancer.org.
Facebook: WaxmanCancer https://www.facebook.com/WaxmanCancer
Instagram: @waxmancancer https://www.instagram.com/waxmancancer/ Twitter: @waxmancancer https://twitter.com/WaxmanCancer
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Mt. Joy
Bryan Griffin
Katya Tolstova
Nadja Sayej
Elin Nierenberg, Michael Nierenberg
Photo Credit: Sean Zanni/PMC
Operation Warrior Shield’s Healing for Heroes
Gala Touches Hearts on Incredible Night
David Tupper, Yellin
Photo Credit: Sean Zanni/PMC
Operation Warrior Shield held their Healing for Heroes Event in support of Military Veterans and First Responders this fall season. Attendees at the beloved New York City affair gathered at the landmark Water Club to honor philanthropist Jean Shafiroff and The Doris Day Animal Foundation accepted by Jim Pierson and Patricia Deshong of the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation for their work supporting the organization.
Operation Warrior Shield is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, whose primary mission is to provide comprehensive support programs for service members, veterans and first responders, with a focus on “Healing Their Hidden Wounds” through no-cost holistic wellness services.
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CMSgt Ret. Ed Schloeman, Monsignor Hilary Franco
Deputy Inspector Mark Wachter
Jean Shafiroff, CMSgt Ret. Ed Schloeman, Pat Deshong
Medal of Honor Recipient, Paul Bucha
Photo Credit: Sean Zanni/PMC
Shafiroff accepted the honor for the night with grand grace. The dedicated humanitarian, TV host, writer, and the author of the book “Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give” received the evening’s high honors for her volunteer work that includes serving on the boards of the American Humane, Global Strays, Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation Honorary Board and many more.
Pierson and Deshong also both have reputable and noteworthy achievements with Deshong having joined the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation in mid-December 2021 after they reached out to her seeking an Executive Director with experience. She is a seasoned animal nonprofit executive with several years of experience leading Furry Friends Adoption, Clinic & Ranch. In 2014, she established their service dog program resulting in the placement of numerous trained service dogs to Veterans. Since joining SASF, Deshong has joined forces with Operation Warrior Shield to support the Operation Canine Companion program.
Notable guests at the soiree included: CMSgt Ret. Ed Schloeman, Pat Deshong, Monsignor Hilary Franco, Medal of Honor Recipient Paul Bucha, Deputy Inspector Mark Wachter NYPD, David Tupper & Yellin, Judge Jeanine Pirro, Lorri Scott, Marvin Scott, Nene Kodjoe, Rebecca Seawright, Tatyana Horoshko, Judy Gilbert, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, Luigi Nicolae, Michelle DellaFave, Barry Fixler, Patric Hale and The Honorable Randall Eng.
Chief Master Sgt. Ed Schloeman, Chairman and CEO of Operation Warrior Shield commented
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Medal of Honor Recipient, Paul Bucha, Pat Deshong, CMSgt Ret. Ed Schloeman
Jean Shafiroff, Jeanine Pirro, Pat Deshong
Jean Shafiroff
Photo Credit: Sean Zanni/PMC
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Jeanine Pirro
Lorri Scott, Marvin Scott
Tatyana Horoshko, Errol Rappaport, Judy Gilbert
Jean Shafiroff, Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso
Photo Credit: Jared Siskin PMC/Getty Images
Nene Kodjoe, Rebecca Seawright
on the aims of the organization, “Our goal is to provide specially trained, loving and supportive canine companions to veterans and first responders and their families who live with physical and emotional injuries incurred during their time in service.” Bethann Carbone, CSO of Operation Warrior Shield explains, “We developed Operation Canine Companion because veterans are committing suicide every day. We know how important healing from trauma is. OWS’ Operation Canine Companion pets provide safety, camaraderie, unconditional acceptance, and a unique emotional support that helps reduce the stress and challenges that our heroes face every day.”
The evening commenced with a cocktail hour and silent auction before the start of the program led by the Chairman of OWS, CMSgt (Retired) Edward Schloeman Sr. Opening the ceremony
was the USMC Color Guard from 1st Marine Corps District and an invocation by Monsignor Hilary Franco, who has had the distinction of serving six Popes.
There were presentations on the importance of supporting the work of the charity to help reduce suicide risk amongst veterans by Paul Bucha, Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Deputy Inspector Mark Wachter and Lt. Col. Wilem Wong of NYPD Health & Wellness discussed the challenges faced by first responders. A live auction by Auctioneer Rudy Saviano sought to raise funds to help provide trained dogs to veterans. OWS then presented awards to the honorees of the 2022 Healing for Heroes.
For more information, visit www.operationwarriorshield.org and follow @operationwarriorshield on Facebook.
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The Magazine Lifestyle Holiday Gift Guide
It’s the season for love, joy and giving. We all love presents. And of course, receiving a gift is just as wonderful as handing one out. Here are some of our favorite things for this festive time of the year.
For Her
STATE is a mission-driven family bag brand that gives back. The Graham Shopper ($145) is an amazing example in the line. Zip from yoga to the airport with our new puffer shopper tote. Lightweight and sleek, yet incredibly spacious and packed with functionality, this bag was made to move with you.
Your everyday essentials and then some. Main body fits your everyday gear, up to a 16” laptop, headphones, a toiletry kit, a sweater, water bottle, books, etc. Interior organizational pockets fit everyday essentialsyour cell phone, charger, wallet, Chapstick and glasses, etc.
For every State bag purchased, they support American children and families in need in the ways they need it most. Our giving initiatives include donating fully packed backpacks at our signature bag drop rallies, fueling #WhatDoWeTellTheKids activations and special projects with partner charities and schools in which we so deeply believe. www.statebags.com
For Him
Grant Stone ($370) is one of the leading makers of Goodyear-welted shoes. This is not just another pair to add to a collection. Founder Wyatt Gilmore, a third-generation shoemaker, spent years studying and perfecting these shoes with a desire to create non-disposable footwear that fits. Using a meticulous design process that guarantees comfort, durability and style.
Versatile sizing means you can get the best fit possible. When you place an order you are putting in a buyer’s moment that will lead to the acquisition of a masterpiece. The frank and honest way these shoe craftsmen speak to you on the phone is intimate and personalized. You know that your shoe isn’t just being thrown together in a factory. It is being made with care and passionate resolve by artisans. Only the best materials are used and showcase leather uppers sourced from world renowned tanneries in the USA, England, Italy and France.
www.grantstoneshoes.com
For Kids
Blok Watches ($179) are Swissmade, sustainable, and stylish analog watches for kids. Gift your kiddo a grown-up kids watch with all the watch fanatic bells and whistles: ETA Quartz movement, kid-proof sapphire crystal lens, stainless steel screw down crown, waterproof, 10-year battery life and adjustable strap. Comes in 6 different colors.
Blok represents sustainable authenticity, collectability, knowledge, independence, confidence, and fun. In an increasingly digital world, Blok is proudly analogue. Their unique time management system allows kids to understand and harness the rarest and most universal commodity of all... time.
www. blokwatches.com
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Santa Baby Charity Gala and Sleigh the Runway Fashion Raises Funds for The Lighthouse Organization
On Dec. 11, The Santa Baby Charity Gala along with the Sleigh the Runway Fashion Show together hosted a night of merry cheer. The joyful evening included a redcarpet, fashion & beauty expo, and an incredible gala that was in collaboration with Flowers2Walz, Invisible Queen, and internationally awarded events organization, Kiss the Mermaids (aka KTM Events). The monumental occasion benefited The Lighthouse Organization, which is a non-profit that assists survivors of domestic violence. The Santa Baby donation went toward the children in the program to buy toys for the holidays.
Both Kevin Kreider and Devon Diep of Netflix’s hit show “Bling Empire” were in attendance along with notables Fia Johansson, Natstar, Walter O’ Brien, Sheldon Reynolds, Layal Syriani, Dr. Ramsha Shafa, Zain, Jennifer Murphy, and Virgelia Villegas.
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Founders of Kiss the Monkeys Alex Harris and Raquel Sanchez
Photo Credit: AllenWaynePhotography/ Wayne Wright
Designer Fiona Williamson, Model Zachory Sweeny
Photo Credit: AllenWaynePhotography/Wayne Wright
Alex Harris, Kevin Kreider and Devon Diep
Photo Credit: AllenWaynePhotography/Wayne Wright
Over 300 guests gathered at the Santa Baby Charity Gala at QD Venue in Westminster, CA. Four femalerun businesses were the showcased organizations of the night who helped launch the evening and included Kiss the Mermaids (KTM Events with Alex Harris), Flowers2Walz, Invisible Queen, as well as The Lighthouse Organization.
The affair began with a lively reception for the VIP guests who were greatly welcomed with music by DJ Azaro, a Santa Baby cocktail sampler, and hor d’oeuvres sponsored by Wandering King.Doors opened to all after the VIP reception for holiday shopping. Vendors included Hive Xo, Luv & Care Beauty, Global Unity, Angelini Bridal, Kandahar Market, Gifted by Risa, Bags & More by Candy, Robin Rosen Bags & Accessories, Glamore, Clairvoyant Fashion, The Opis Team, Angelica Robles, Gleamire Jewelry, Design Rona, RasaNari, and many more.
The entertainment highlighted Sir Kaya Redford and Davi Davenport. Jennifer Murphy also co-hosted bringing her production crew for her upcoming movie. The event was a cameo backdrop for her film. Live music performances by Sherine Zaza, King James Brown, Dumisani Maraire, Leon Jones and rapper NatStar for fashion designer Fiona Williamson’s fashion production took place.
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Alana Harris, Dress by Lovlei
Photo Credit: Dumisani Maraire Jr.
Dr. Fia Johansson - Public Figure, Speaker and Executive Coach
Photo Credit: William Kidston Photography, Emmy Award winning photographer
Santa Baby Emcees, Sir Kaya Redford and Jennifer Murphy
Photo Credit: AllenWaynePhotography/Wayne Wright
Models were provided for the Sleigh the Runway Fashion Show by CIM Models, V Inspired and Ang Model Management. Other event highlights were a raffle, 360 cameras, and a lively awards ceremony.
Kevin’s Asian-inspired non-alcoholic beverage Sans by Taejin was additionally an event sponsor. Other backers included RB Day Spa, Boos & Associates CPAs and Consultants. Additionally, LA Fashion Closet and Lady Golf provided event support with KTM Events partner, as well as Assuaged Foundation, which provided interns to help operations of the event alongside seasoned event volunteers.
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Santa Baby Group Photo
Photo Credit: William Kidston Photography
Raquel Sanchez and Alex Harris, both with Kevin Kreider and Devon Diep of Netflix’s hit show “Bling Empire” who both received an achievement award that evening
Photo Credit: Ernie Tyler Photography
Honoring Virgelia Villegas
Photo Credit: Tom Phan