On Saturday, December 4th, Andy Sabin, the Board President of the South Fork Natural Museum (SOFO) celebrated his 75th birthday with a black-tie affair at the American Museum of Natural History.
The stunning event was attended by over 270 guests, who enjoyed cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres in the Hall of Biodiversity before sitting for dinner in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. Once seated, friends and family of Andy took the stage to speak about the great work Andy has done throughout his lifetime. Greg Manocherian kicked off the night by presenting Andy with a $2 bill with his photo printed on it and unveiled a caricature of Andy, which guests signed throughout the evening.
Andy’s son, Shawn Sabin, had everyone in the audience laughing as he provided humorous anecdotes about his father throughout his life. Susan Rockefeller offered up a heartwarming tribute noting that Andy recognizes that it is the tiniest steps that build a foundation.
The program continued with video tributes from Congressman Kevin McCarthy and Senator Rob Portman, before the emcee introduced the first musical act, American country music star, Janie Fricke. Dinner was then served, where guests enjoyed a delicious menu of Lemon Sole with Saffron Globe Artichoke, Crispy Herbs, Millet Pilaf, Green Grape Verjus; Tellicherry Crusted Beef Tenderloin, Hedgehog Mushroom, Garnet Yam Mash, Broccoli Leaves with Brandy Shallot Sauce; and Vegetarian lasagna “Bolognese” with eggplant, San Marzano Tomato, Garbanzo Ricotta.
Next to take the stage to honor Andy were Sam Sabin, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx and Ben Jacobson. Finally, Andy Sabin took the floor to thank all the guests for attending and celebrating his 75th with him in style. The evening concluded with an exciting performance by American country music singer-songwriter Lee Greenwood before a gorgeous animal-themed cake was wheeled out and a surprise Happy Birthday song was led virtually by Folk Musician Livingston Taylor.
Andy pledged to match all the guests’ charitable donations to their favorite charities for up to $5,000.
Those in attendance for the special evening included: David and Susan Rockefeller, Kara Ross, Nobel Prize winner Jim Allison, Joseph Grogan, Jill Zarin, Carl Safina and Patricia Paladines, Russ Mittermeier, Michael Gerrard, Dick Grasso, Carole Crist, Trammell Crow, Greg Manocherian, Jonathan and Susie Sabin, Kiera and Ava Sabin, James and Rose McKiernan, Arnie and Paola Rosenshein, Greg and Kim Lippmann, and party planner Diana Aceti.
