The 14th Annual Young Trailblazers Gala 2015
Live Out Loud presented an inspiring evening celebrating the LGBT Young Trailblazers at their annual Gala by honoring the not so young, as well. The young trailblazers were acknowledged with scholarships and a moment in the spotlight at the Gala held in New York at the TIMESCENTER and attended by a throng of exciting people including Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, Daryl Roth, and Jordan Roth, Richie Jackson, Lisa Lampanelli, Raphael Miranda, Selma Sloane and Bruce T. Sloane.
Amongst the many highlights of the illustrious evening was Peter Staley’s acceptance of the Champion Award presented to him by Hal Rubenstein. Peter Staley is the leading subject in the Oscar nominated documentary "How To Survive A Plague," and The Champion Award is an acknowledgment of his trailblazing work and accomplishments as a pioneer in the AIDS epidemic.
Tony Cacioppo of Eleanor Roosevelt High School in New York City was presented with Educator of the Year Award by the evening’s Special Guest Host John Gidding. The Young Trailblazers, who earned scholarships and who took a moment to shine their lights at the Gala, in no particular order, were Zoe Bracken, Kaitlin Maloney, Kain "Kai" McCall, Steven McClary-Smith, and Michael Nowak.
The Humanitarian Award was presented by Sean Patrick Maloney, New York’s first openly gay congressman, to Mitz and Fritz, a not so young gay couple together for 38 years, known in business as Philippe Brugere-Trelat and Mitch Draizin. They were married in New York City on November 13, 2011 following the passage of legislation which they had actively supported. A terrific Humanitarian couple Fritz is the Executive Vice President at Franklin Templeton Investments, and Mitch is the founder and President of Longview Capital Advisors.
Live Out Loud Founder and Executive Director Leo Preziosi, Jr. closed out the evening with a spirited pitch that had the attendees tearing out their centerfold donation cards to his encouragement "come on more noise," before heading downstairs to the ongoing silent auction and a sumptuous Buffet provided by Great Performances that was a celebration of taste sensations. A terrific time was had by everyone being themselves for a great cause.
For more fun this summer in the Hamptons join LIVE OUT LOUD for PRIDE IN THE HAMPTONS on Saturday June 27th at the waterfront home of Bruce T. Sloane. Cocktails, Hors d’oeuvres & Silent Auction 6:00 to 8:30 PM with Dinner & Dancing 8:30 to 10:30 PM.
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER
Photography: Barry Gordin
