The Great Age Movement’s 3rd Annual Jazz Luncheon

LCAHouston International Society News Magazine was pleased to attend the Great Age Movement‘s 3nd Annual Jazz Luncheon on Sunday, June 2, 2019 at the St. Regis Hotel. The Great Age Movement goals are to help fund senior playgrounds in green spaces and develop art & exercise programs at The Health Museum.

DR. ROD PAIGE, MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER, STEPHANIE NELLONS PAIGE, FRITZ MCDONALD

A jazz performance by Angela Nichols and saxophonist Chris Mitchell started off the luncheon. Local PBS host and emcee Ernie Manouse welcomed guests and introduced co-chairs, Jennifer Pinkerton and Jessica Rossman, followed by Great Age Movement President & Founder Fritz J. McDonald. The organization’s first senior fitness park groundbreaking this month in the Texas Medical Center, and its ongoing commitment to mobilizing the senior population through innovative programs in Houston, were highlighted by Mr. McDonald.

Philanthropist and Mayoral candidate, Tony Buzbee surprised the organization with a $10,000 donation. Mayor Sylvester Turner praised the success of the organization’s initiatives and introduced Honoree Dr. Roderick R. Paige, former U.S. of Education under President George W. Bush. John Bo Nichols dedicated his speech to his father, Honoree John F. Nichols, Sr.

The luncheon concluded with the presentation of the inaugural Vanguard award to First Lady of Philanthropy Dr. Carolyn Farb, for her generosity toward seniors and Great Age Movement.

The senior tai chi troupe from the Chinese Community Center captivated the audience with their performance. A silent auction was held that included Festari fine men’s clothing, hotel getaways, fine dining, beauty packages. Lucky auction winners also walked away with worldwide airline tickets, a luxury ranch vacation, and a John Palmer & Angela Fabbri champagne paint party.

Proceeds raised by the event surpassed last year’s luncheon by 60%, raising more than $80,000 making this its most successful fundraiser in 2 years.

Honored guests, community partners and generous underwriters included: The Health Museum, St. Dominic’s Village, Carlson Wagonlit, St. Regis Hotel, Senior Resource Guide, Jennifer & Chad Pinkerton, Stephanie Nellons Paige, Gordon Bethune, Michael & Tammy Harris, Don & Anne McAdams, John & Mary Beth Archidiacono, Mike & Sophie Rydin, Sam & Tina Governale, Massoud & Roya Taghtisi, Ashlee Elmore, Mechelle Tran, Edward Sanchez, Dr. Romy Lauren, Dr. Rolando Maldonado, Jacqueline Bailey, Scott Duke Ensell, John Jamail, Jr., Staci Henderson, Stan Price, Kat Kearns, Amanda Abiassi, Bob Nowak, Maria Ines Sicardi, Kay Joshua, Tracy Faulkner, Gregg Harrison, Margarita Walker, Barbara Reyna, and Carolyn White.