Answer the Call- Press Recap

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We will have more press updates as we get them.

This year’s Gala, marking the 10th Anniversary of “9‐11,” will honor Lloyd Blankfein, Chairman and CEO of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., for his ongoing support of the Benefit Fund and NYC’s first responders. The gala will be hosted by Brian Williams, Anchor and Managing Editor of NBC Nightly News.

Kevin Parker, Global Head of Deutsche Bank’s Asset Management division and President of the charity said, “The safety our City’s Fire and Police personnel provide us is something we should never take for granted. The emergency radio call of ‘10‐13’, which is also the date of the Gala, indicates that a First Responder is in need of assistance. Let this date, on the 10th anniversary of 9‐11 when so many of them gave their lives, be a reminder to all of us that our commitment to New York’s bravest and their families must not waiver.”

“It’s a privilege to honor Lloyd,” said Stephen Dannhauser, Chairman of Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP and Chairman of the charity’s Board of Directors. “The support that he and his colleagues at Goldman Sachs have shown to family members of New York’s finest and bravest heroes has been remarkable and has made a huge impact on their lives, providing help when and where it is most needed.”

“All New Yorkers owe a great deal not only to the City’s first responders but to their families,” said Lloyd C. Blankfein, Chairman and CEO of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. “It is an honor for our firm to help support the New York Police & Fire Widows & Children’s Benefit Fund.”

Special guests include Hockey Hall of Famer, former honoree and charity VP of Community Affairs, Mark Messier, NYC Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly, and NYC Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano and
Port Authority Police Superintendent Michael Fedorko, Donnie Wahlberg (Blue Bloods), Jim Cramer (Mad Money) and many of New York’s movers and shakers will be milling amongst the 1200 guests.

Mark Messier said, “I chose to get involved with this charity, AnswertheCall.org because like all Americans and New Yorkers, I was profoundly affected by September 11, 2001. The courage and selflessness that was shown by New York’s Bravest and Finest was an inspiration to me. I feel deeply compelled to honor and remember all first responders who put the safety of others before their own by helping the families they leave behind.”

The event will also feature a performance by up and coming entertainer Duane McLaughlin, who will sing his new release “Ready to Live”.

Since its inception in 1985 by Daniel J. “Rusty” Staub, the Benefit Fund has distributed more than $123 million to the families of New York City Police and Fire Fighters who have been killed in the line of duty. Starting in 1987, the Benefit Fund provided 320 families with annual financial assistance. The commitment has since grown to nearly 700 families. With minimal overhead, the charity is able to give 95 cents of every dollar donated directly to the families who has suffered the loss of a loved one in the line of duty.

The Gala will include a live auction led by George McNeely of Christie’s. Notable items that are being donated this year include unique experience packages through the NYPD, FDNY and PAPD.

The cocktail reception begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by dinner and program at 7:30 p.m. Individual tickets begin at $1000.

For tickets and sponsorship/ticket information, contact: Linda Giammona, 212.735.4505 or
linda.giammona@answerthecall.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SEPTEMBER 12, 2011

“THE MAKING OF STAIND” DOCUMENTARY PREMIERING ON YOUTUBE TOMORROW (SEPT. 13) AT NOON EDT.
STAIND SELF-TITLED ALBUM OUT TOMORROW (SEPT. 13)
DEBUT SINGLE “NOT AGAIN” #1 AT ROCK RADIO;
NYC BEST BUY THEATER SHOW ON 9/15 TO AID NEW YORK POLICE & FIRE WIDOWS’ & CHILDREN’S BENEFIT FUND

Coinciding with the eponymously-titled 7th studio album from Atlantic recording artist, STAIND, YouTube will be premiering their documentary “The Making of Staind” on www.youtube.com  today at 12:00pm PDT/EDT.  The documentary reveals the tension within the group that nearly caused the breakup of the band during the making of their new album.   “It’s painful for me to even watch,” admits Staind singer Aaron Lewis.   Shortly after the finishing the album, drummer Jon Wysocki departed the band.
The new, self-titled, seventh studio album from Staind will be released September 13th on Flip / Atlantic. Described by singer/songwriter/guitarist Aaron Lewis as “the heaviest collection of songs the band has ever done,” Staind  is a return to their hardest  rock roots. In stark contrast to the struggle the band endured recording the album, the debut single “ Not Again” has been the fastest rising single of the band’s career, and is currently the #1 Active Rock Radio single in the country.
To mark the release of the album, Staind will be holding a special charity show at the Best Buy Theater in New York City on September 15th to benefit the families of 9/11. In commemoration of the 10th anniversary of 9/11, tickets to the show will be priced at $9.11, with all revenue from the show benefitting the charity organization, NEW YORK POLICE & FIRE WIDOWS’ & CHILDREN’S BENEFIT FUND http://answerthecall.org/.   “We wanted to create a meaningful event given the timing of our album release,” said Staind guitarist Mike Mushok.  “We have deliberately kept the ticket prices low as a way to send the important message that even a small contribution in these tough times can help the families of the heroes of 9/11 that still need our support.”
The New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund’s mission is to provide assistance to the families of New York City Police Officers, Fire Fighters, Port Authority Police and EMS Personnel who have been killed in the line of duty. For more than 27 years the Benefit Fund has provided financial assistance to grieving families immediately after they lose their loved one and since these families often must bear the burden of life-long financial hardship, the Benefit Fund, for its entire history, has made an annual distribution to each widow and widower as well. Volunteer-based and minimal overhead allows 95 cents of every dollar donated to go directly to the families of fallen Firefighters, Police Officers, Port Authority Police and EMS personnel. To make an immediate $10 gift text ANSWERTHECALL to 20222.

Linda Giammona, the charity’s Director of Development, said, “It is inspiring to have such a talented group of people stand with our charity. Staind is sending a message to their fans and their industry peers that everyone CAN make a difference if they choose. Although not everyone has the courage to be a firefighter or police officer we all can say ‘thank you’ to our first responders. We are also grateful for Atlantic Records’ pledge to match ticket sales and thank Staind and Atlantic Records for Answering The Call.”

Atlantic Records will match Staind’s donation from ticket sales for a separate additional donation to the charity.
Tickets are available at staindbenefit911.com. Fans will also be able to stream the concert live on www.staind.com courtesy of Ustream.
“Staind” will be released in stores and all digital retailers September 13th and the band will be performing on Jimmy Kimmel Live! that night.

Special thanks goes out to long time friend of the Charity Alan T. Brown for making this relationship happen. Enjoy the performance with this short highlight clip.

Click Here to Download the Album.

Click Here to Download the Album.

Duane McLaughlin actor/philanthropist has put his mind; body and soul to the max into partnering up with the New York Police & Fire Widow’s & Children Benefit Fund with his upcoming album release “Ready To Live” on 9-10-11. Being a New Yorker all his life, while attending the Professional Children’s School, he witnessed the tragedy of 9/11 hit while seeing the heroes at work, putting their lives on the line and seeing some of those lives lost. From that point on he knew what he had to do.

“I named this record ready to live because I wanted people to know that no matter what obstacle might have come in your way or hardship you might have dealt with, that life is not over. You can have a second chance at happiness. You can have a second chance at love.” Said McLaughlin. “My passion lies in helping others. Help is what brought me to this point, and help is what will see me through. The New York City Police & Fire Widow’s & Children’s Benefit Fund relates not only to my album, but to my mission and my purpose. I believe that my partnership with this foundation brightens the beacon of hope and enhances the call for help. One day changed the lives of millions for a lifetime; there is still much work to be done.”

The New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund – founded in 1985 by Daniel J. Rusty Staub, is a volunteer based not for profit dedicated to helping the families of fallen New York Firefighters, Police Officers, EMS and Port Authority Police killed in the line of duty. For the past 26 years the benefit has maintained minimal overhead, with 95 cents of every dollar donated going directly to the families of fallen New York Police and Firefighters. “The proceeds of Duane McLaughlin’s song and video package on iTunes “Ready to Live” is a creative way to support our benefit while encouraging others to do the same” said Linda Giammona, Director of Development.  “Few have the courage that is required to be a police officer or firefighter, but many can say “thank you” by joining Duane McLaughlin and supporting the Answerthecall.org campaign.” Ms. Giammona added, “We are thrilled to have his time and talent dedicated to help build awareness for our cause.”

Duane McLaughlin has starred in As The World Turns and has made guest appearances on televised programs Fringe, Law and Order: Criminal Intent, Third Watch and White Collar. McLaughlin’s work in film includes All Falls Down, The Architect, Black & White, Chelsea Walls, The Emperor’s Club, Finding Buck Henry, and Oscar nominated Far From Heaven, Proud, Rivers Wash Over Me and The Runaway.  “I believe that “Ready To Live” will help the families of the New York City Police & Fire Widow’s & Children’s Benefit Fund by enforcing the message of love, peace, self-worth and happiness, found within each one of my motivational and inspirational songs. This album “will” lift your spirit. For it has been a true gift in my life and I am grateful to have this opportunity and this platform in which to share it” says McLaughlin. When in need of answers, people will be able to download his music of inspiration and hope. A portion of the proceeds will help support the foundation. The music is a spiritual guide to help everyone, along with financially supporting the foundation. You can download “Ready To Live” at www.DuaneMclaughlin.com,

Linda Giammona, director of development for the New York Police & Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund, said contributions to the 26-year-old charity spiked after 9/11, especially after getting a plug from President George W.Bush during a post-event visit to New York City. “It just opened up everyone’s eyes about the risk of being police officers and firefighters. It just provided such a connection between them and Wall Street, which really was the leader in doing that kind of charitable work. It said volumes.”

Muze Clothing Launches Limited-Edition
Mark Sanchez “You Go, We Go” FDNY T-Shirt

Proceeds benefit The New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund and the FDNY Foundation 

NEW YORK, August 29th, 2011 — Muze Clothing has announced a partnership with New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez to support the New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund and the FDNY Foundation with an officially licensed, limited-edition T-shirt, featuring the line, “You Go, We Go.” Taken from the seminal firefighting film Backdraft, the vintage design pays homage to the first leather shoe bucket brigade, featuring Mark Sanchez’s #6 (the number on his Jets jersey, and also the number of his father’s fire station and fire truck).

“My father is a firefighter, so making a difference for widowed families of rescue workers and first responders is important to me,” noted Mark Sanchez. “I’m proud to partner with Muze on this shirt, donating all proceeds to the New York Police and Widow’s and Children’s Benefit Fund and the FDNY Foundation.”

Mark’s father, Nick Sanchez, is a 34-year veteran firefighter and part of the Orange County Fire Authority and Federal Emergency Management Agency task force. In 2005, the unit was deployed to the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina struck. Nick’s leadership has helped shape Mark’s life and has served as an indelible inspiration to his career.

“The FDNY Foundation is extremely grateful to the Muze Clothing and the entire Sanchez family for their continued support of the New York City Fire Department.” said Jean O’Shea, Executive Director for the FDNY Foundation. “This will be a great help in funding FDNY education and training needs.”

100% of the proceeds from sales of the T-Shirt, which is priced at $29, will benefit the FDNY Foundation and the New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund.

The Benefit Fund provides assistance to the families of New York City Police Officers, Fire Fighters, Port Authority Police and EMS Personnel who have been killed in the line of duty. The Benefit Fund provides immediate financial assistance to each widow or widower after the loss of a loved one as well as annual financial distributions to help ease long term financial difficulties. With minimal overhead the charity has been able to make a meaningful difference for more than 26 years. For more information visit www.answerthecall.org

The FDNY Foundation is the official not-for-profit organization of the FDNY established to promote Fire Safety in New York City and fund professional development, training, and education programs for members of the FDNY. Learn more at FDNYFoundation.org

To purchase a limited-edition Mark Sanchez “You Go, We Go” FDNY T-shirt visit www.muzeclothing.com.

Muze Clothing is a lifestyle brand born out of an appreciation for classic movie quotes. A great movie line is the perfect means of personal expression, as is a great T-shirt, and the company has built a reputation for designer clothing with compelling graphics. Driven by a philanthropy-based business model with the belief that ‘to wear is human; to give, divine,’ Muze has partnered with several celebrity icons to leverage the power of the brand and empower consumers to make a philanthropic impact. Muze does not profit from the sale of these shirts, as all proceeds are donated to the celebrity’s preferred cause.

# # #

For more information about the The Benefit Fund:

Visit Answerthecall.org

Visit Mark’s Facebook Page for more information.

To order the shirt Click here

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BEYONCÉ’S UNRELEASED RECORDING OF “GOD BLESS THE USA” NOW AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON THE iTunes STORE

ARTIST AND COLUMBIA RECORDS
TO DONATE THEIR PROCEEDS TO
NEW YORK POLICE & FIRE WIDOWS’ & CHILDREN’S BENEFIT FUND

*

TELEVISION DEBUT ON PIERS MORGAN TONIGHT
CNN TONIGHT AT 9:00 PM-EST/PST

(New York, NY; Columbia Records; Thursday, May 5, 2011)

Moved by recent news events and the re-opened wounds of 9/11 families, Beyoncé announced today the release of her recording of the Lee Greenwood-penned “God Bless The USA.” Both artists and Columbia Records are donating their proceeds to New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund. The single is available exclusively today on the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com).

Beyoncé was a performer at the Answer The Call concert at Madison Square Garden on September 11, 2009, which also benefitted New York Police & Fire Widows’ & Children’s Benefit Fund.

“I cannot think about anything more appropriate to do to help these families,” said the entertainer. “Almost ten years later, it is still so painful for all Americans, especially those who lost loved ones.”

“On behalf of New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund’s Board of Directors and the families of our fallen heroes, we are truly grateful for Beyonce’s choice to support our charity and ‘answer the call’,” said Stephen J. Dannhauser, Chairman of the New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund.

Beyoncé’s recording of “God Bless The USA,” can be heard tonight on Piers Morgan Tonight on CNN during the 9:00 PM/EST program. The broadcast repeats at Midnight.

This is always a great day out for the spouses, children and grandchildren of our fallen heroes.  Our annual event provides a chance for these families to get together with one another and enjoy a day at the ballpark.  It also allows these families to meet Rusty Staub, the Board of Directors and the volunteers, who all play a valuable role in keeping the Charity’s overhead under 5%.

If you would like to Answer the Call®, here is your chance!

Sponsorship levels*:

Base Hit – $200 – Sponsor one family
Double – $400 – Sponsor two families
Triple – $600 – Sponsor three families
Home Run – $800 – Sponsor four families
Grand Slam – $1000 – Sponsor five families

This is an opportunity for you and four guests to come out and join the fun!  This includes special Terrace Seating, a meet and greet with Rusty Staub and other special guests, commemorative gifts and tee-shirts, as well as food and beverages.

Your choice to support this event helps keep our promise to NEVER FORGET the sacrifice made by New York’s Bravest & Finest.

If you are interested in Answering the Call, please contact Cathleen.

Thank you!  See you on game day.

*Each family will receive four tickets to the game, food, beverages and commemorative
T-shirts.

The Benefit Fund is not a new discovery for Patricia since her father Brian Marro has been a supporter for many years.  Listen as Patricia discusses how she came up with a very unique approach to helping to raise money for our charity.  The Benefit Fund depends on the generosity of individuals like Patricia and businesses like Digital Edge to sustain the level of support that we give to the families of those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Photo Credit:Ron Jordan Natoli

This is the video that was shown at the dinner honoring four heroes who paid the ultimate price.

Stephen Dannhauser, Lyor Cohen, Vikram Pandit and Rusty Staub

Legal Bisnow
Weil Chief Aids Police/Fire Chiefs
11-12-10

Equity Help Desk
Fire Chief Vikram Pandit Has Exciting News For Citi Employees And Shareholders
11-08-10

IB’s Blog
Citigroup CEO Vikram Pandit, Warner Music Group CEO Lyor Cohen, Entertainer Jay-z Honored At Annual Benefit Gala
11-06-10

Roc4Life
Quick News: Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Quincy Jones, Swizz Beats & More!
11-05-10

NY1
Annual Dinner Raises Funds For Law Enforcement Widows And Children
11-05-10

American Banker
People
11-05-10

New York Times – Deal Book
A Mash-Up of High Finance and Hip-Hop
11-04-10

CNBC.com
When Vik P Met Jay Z
11-04-10

“This organization is all about trying to never forget the loss that takes place when a police officer or fireman or Port Authority or EMS person is killed in the line of duty, giving their life up to make this city a safer place to be in,” said Staub. “The whole purpose is not just the money we give them, but the fact that they know we’re not forgetting what their loss was, and that means as much to them as the money.”

Not only was George there as a journalist but he served as our auctioneer for the evening (again). Thanks George for the support and the report. Click here to read and watch

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Here is a video clip of the children of our fallen heroes singing the National Anthem

Part 1

Part 2