Over 200 guests attended The Maurer Foundation Pink Diamond Gala, Thursday, October 17, enjoying cocktails, fine dining, live music, dancing, live and silent auctions and a jewelry showcase courtesy of London Jewelers. The purpose of the event was to raise funds to support the Foundation’s ongoing breast health and cancer prevention workshops offered to schools, corporations, and community groups.
This year’s Pink Diamond Gala honored women’s health and wellness expert Dr. Neeta Shah and Angela Susan Anton, Publisher of Anton Community Newspapers, Long Island Weekly, and Long Island Social Diary.
Kristin Thorne, event Master of Ceremonies and Long Island correspondent for WABC-TV’s Eyewitness News, introduced the honorees. “Dr. Shah’s passion is one we share: using community outreach to encourage women to take an active role in their own wellbeing…. The Maurer Foundation is also proud to recognize the tireless work of Ms. Angela Susan Anton…. In her position as publisher of the Anton Community Newspapers, Ms. Anton has promoted a healthy Long Island through informative editorials and articles focusing on wellness efforts throughout the community.”
Stacey Balducci, breast cancer survivor, Syosset High School health teacher and guest speaker at the 2013 Pink Diamond Gala, spoke about the importance of the Maurer Foundation’s mission of early detection of breast cancer.
“I always think it is irony that made The Maurer Foundation such a presence in my life to always remind me to do my monthly breast self-exam and check myself…. Had I not had that educator enter my classroom from The Maurer Foundation all those years ago, I may not be here speaking today.”
The Pink Diamond Gala was held at The Carltun, known for its picturesque backdrop and exquisite dining. The Carltun is situated on the lush greens of Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, Long Island.
London Jewelers supported the event through their jewelry auction and fashion show which featured glamorous models who mingled with guests. Auctioneer Jeff Klaverweiden generously donated his time to conduct the auctions with energy and enthusiasm.
The Maurer Foundation Pink Diamond Gala was sponsored by numerous generous organizations and donors, with dozens additionally supporting the Foundation through journal ads and in-kind donations. The Foundation would particularly like to thank Capital One Bank, who was an event sponsor at the Diamond level, as well as Mr. Michael & Dr. Kathy Weiss, AVZ Certified Public Accountants, Ms. Angela Susan Anton, NRAD Medical Associates, P.C, and Dr. Barry Douglas & The Staff At Long Island Plastic Surgical Group who supported the event at the Gold level.
The Maurer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit based in Hauppauge, NY. The Foundation’s mission is to save lives through breast health education that focuses on breast cancer prevention, early detection, risk reduction and healthy lifestyle choices.
Photos by Dave Wexler
