With a nod to the ripple effect that economic growth in the Bronx has on New Yorkers, Mayor Michael Bloomberg launched the 38th Anniversary Gala of the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (SoBRO) off to a rousing start.
SoBRO marked nearly four decades of “building a better Bronx” on December 7th at the Grand Hyatt in New York City. The theme for this year’s gala, “Retrain, Renew, Revitalize” embodies SoBRO’s commitment to positively transform the South Bronx through diverse educational and economic development programs. Total revenue raised at this year’s gala exceeded $280,000. Funds generated from this event will enable SoBRO to fund a wide array of educational programs for youth and adults, commercial and residential real estate projects, small business assistance and entrepreneurial training courses.
This year the SoBRO gala attracted approximately 450 guests from the business, political and public sectors and members of the press. Mayor Michael Bloomberg explained how community development organizations such as SoBRO provide job creation opportunities that spur economic growth in a turbulent economy. Laughter erupted from the ballroom crowd who gathered to hear the Mayor speak, as he concluded with his very own, cross-cultural phrase that embodies the true New York holiday spirit, “Happy Whatever.”
This year’s gala provided a platform for those from all walks of life to celebrate the progress SoBRO has made in helping to invigorate the South Bronx economy. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. gave an inspirational speech, which was also a noteworthy highlight of the evening, during which time he presented SoBRO’s President, Phillip Morrow with a proclamation and declared Tuesday December 7th as South Bronx Overall Economic Day in honor of SoBRO. The gala also gave SoBRO the opportunity to shine a light on the honorees, each are the finest examples of what can be achieved through hard work and determination. The honorees this year included: Golden Krust Caribbean Baker & Grill (Community Leadership Award), Jackson Development Group (Developer of the Year Award), Best Buy (Corporate Leadership Award) and Chairman of the New Yankees Stadium Community Benefits Fund, Serafin Mariel (Spirit of the Bronx Award).
SoBRO also gave special recognition to Brian Gold of Sultana Distribution Services, Inc. and his wife Linda, who together have created the Bernie Gold & Anthony Pellicano Scholarship Fund which supports high school graduates in SoBRO’s Youth Department in pursuing a college education. The Master of Ceremonies for SoBRO’s 38th Anniversary gala was the charismatic DeMarco Morgan, Anchor/Reporter, for WNBC4 New York. The gala also featured a special performance by American Idol Semi-finalist, Ian Holmes II.