The American Friends of the Louvre (AFL) hosted their annual gala this past Sunday evening in New York City’s iconic Rainbow Room at Rockefeller Center. Since its inception, AFL has raised over $55 million in support of the Louvre’s mission, enhancing the museum’s accessibility, working to preserve and restore its collections, and advancing its world-class programming in Paris and around the globe.
It was Thomas E. Moore III’s inaugural gala as Executive Director of American Friends of the Louvre. Thomas was introduced to the podium by Christopher (“Kip”) Forbes, the Chairman of the Board, and followed by this year’s Gala Chairman, Darren Star, creator of “Sex and the City” and “Emily in Paris.”
A video featuring the cast of “Emily in Paris” kicked off the live auction, which included a luxury stay in Paris and private museum experience sponsored by Air France, the Ritz Paris and Musee du Louvre; as well as a journey to the Hotel Cipriani in Venice by way of the Orient Express, sponsored by the Belmond Group. A silent auction was sponsored by Ruinart, Met Opera, and Elizabeth Segerstrom, among others.
Gala attendees dined on Dover sole before dancing the night away to a live band. Notable guests at the gala included Mohamed Bouabdallah, Cultural Counselor of France in the United States and Director of Villa Albertine; Joan Kahn; Kay Unger; Naoma Tate; Dr. Andrea Achi; Chiwoniso Kaitano; Frances Lindemann; and Candace Bushnell, author of “Sex and the City.”
Zuhre Beytas brought over 50 beautiful big-hearted Palm Beach residents together at Sant Ambroeus Palm Beach to to personally thank each guest who has made a difference with their positivity, love and support.
Guests included: Diana Davis, Theresa Valinotti, Chase Backer, Annie Watt, Kyle Lucks, Alice Rowlands, Sean O’Harra, Megan O’Harra, Kim and Kurt Butenhoff, Adil and Ceyda Avunduk, Oguzki Ziltas, Briana Nespral, and many more and the entertainment was provided by violinist Lexey, Candice Ku, and Influencers Eliya Cioccolato, Daniela Sonnenfeld.
Zuhre’s World Non-Profit Organization is a 501C3, founded in 2023. Zuhre has helped to provide many of the low income families of Palm Beach County with food, clothing, toys and school supplies. By partnering with other organizations for the good of the community, they play a crucial role in transforming the lives of vulnerable children and those experiencing homelessness. Thanksgiving 2023 Zuhre’s World donated hundreds of turkeys to feed countless households and at Christmas time provided gifts items needed by adults and distributed over 200 toys for children.
You can help create a positive impact with your involvement, whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness. Visit www.zuhresworld.org
And late last month, Chuck and Deborah Goodrich Royce hosted a cocktail reception for The United Theatre of Rhode Island at their home in Palm Beach, Florida.
Chuck Royce is co-chairman of the non-profit’s Board of Directions and the major benefactor of the revitalization of the 1926 vaudeville theater, which reopened as a multi-purpose arts center in 2021.
About 70 friends of the Royces and United board members, and United Community Director Margaret Corini attended the affair at The Lido. Chuck Royce and Carly Callahan, United Executive Director, addressed those in attendance, who also were treated to a video that highlights the resurgence of The United and downtown Westerly.
“It was a privilege to share The United’s vibrant journey and impactful initiatives with our esteemed guests. Our collective endeavor to weave a rich tapestry of cultural and educational experiences for our community underscore the deep connections and legacy we’re building together.”
The United is located at 5 Canal St., Westerly, RI. For more information, visit www.unitedtheatre.org
