Doodle for Hunger is a fun and exciting auction of signed, original works of art - aka "doodles" - by actors, entertainers, athletes, politicians and business celebrities. We are grateful to our Presenting Sponsors, Margo and John Catsimatidis for their continued support.
Hosted by Ernie Anastos, news anchor of Fox 5 NY, this high-profile and highly anticipated occasion included an elegant cocktail party with buffet, "Doodle" preview and silent and live auctions. The live auction was led by professional auctioneer Kathleen Guzman and actor Tony Lo Bianco.
Our Guest of Honor this year was Daniel A. Nigro, the City of New York Fire Commissioner. Our special musical guest was Gianni Russo. Best known for his role of Carlo Rizzi in The Godfather, Russo sang hits by such legendary singers as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and more. Both Fire Commissioner Nigro and Gianni Russo were awarded with the St. Francis by Margo and John Catsimatidis for their commitment to the community in the "spirit of St. Francis."
This year, a couple of other items were auctioned off that upped the ante, so to speak:
Gianni Russo auctioned off dinner at his private home, including bottles of wine from his family's own vineyard!
And our guest of honor, the FDNY commissioner, offered a cruise around the NYC harbor on the FDNY's new fireboat, named the Three Forty Three in tribute to the 343 members of the FDNY who died in the Sept 11 attacks on the city. A bidding war between three guests ensued, ending when all three agreed to split the prize!
As always, proceeds from all auctions - Doodle or otherwise - benefits the clients who depend on St. Francis Food Pantries and Shelters.
Thank you to all of our guests, hosts, entertainers and attendees for another amazing event!
View our Souvenir Journal of the event by clicking here or clicking the image below:
