HealthCorps
took its fight against child obesity to the Winter Garden at the World
Financial Center on Thursday, April 30, 2009 where it held the Green
Garden Gala. Dr. Mehmet Oz, HealthCorps founder and chairman,
and his wife Lisa co-chaired the Gala, which honored musical genius
Quincy Jones, actor and performer Ben Vereen, New York City Schools
Chancellor Joel Klein and New York philanthropist and CEO of the Red
Apple Group John Catsimatidis for their contributions to the health
and well being of American youth.
The celebrity-studded event attracted such guests as Russell Simmons,
LL Cool J, Donna Karan, New York Governor David Paterson, celebrity
chef Rocco DiSpirito, Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza, Dr. Michael Roizen
of RealAge, Dr. Dean Ornish, Dr. Mark Hyman, former Knicks star John
Starks, and Warner Music Group EVP Kevin Liles.
Sports celebrities who took in a dazzling performance from Wyclef
Jean included Knicks Legend Earl “the Pearl” Monroe; Bo
Kimble, former Knicks player; Kenny Anderson, former New Jersey Nets
player; Olympic gold medal softball pitcher Jennie Finch; and Jay Fiedler,
retired Miami Dolphins and New York Jets quarterback.
New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn and Council Members
Alan Gerson, Joel Rivera and Julissa Ferreras honored HealthCorps with
a special Proclamation presented by Councilman Alan Gerson.
The evening of dining, dancing and entertainment kicked off with an
original Green Gala song and dance composition from Broadway
actor Stepp Stewart and his dazzling dance troupe. Ashford & Simpson
made a special appearance and sang with Eturnity Band, which provided
the rocking dance tunes.
Proceeds from funds raised at the Gala will be used to help meet HealthCorps' goal
to establish its in-school educational and mentoring program in additional
high schools across the country.
