Dear Members and Friends,

The Sixth Annual Gala of Turkish American Business Forum has been a great success with close to 300 people attending.

The evening started at the Light House at Chelsea Piers with cocktails and delicious appetizers. The guests enjoyed the "TABF Gala Tribute Video" which was shown on three large flat screen TV's. This video included photographs from events of the last 11 years and interviews with veteran members of TABF with a very pleasant background music.

Attendees were seated around 8:15 p.m. and TABF president Murat Agirnasli welcomed all with opening remarks and invited Dr. Tamer Seckin to receive his "Lifetime Achievement Award". Dr. Seckin was also asked to be the master of ceremonies. Dr. Seckin, after his emotional and uplifting speech, invited all the former presidents and TABF's former director Senay Ataselim to receive their awards.

Honorable Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President, was invited on stage. After a great speech, Mr. Markowitz presented Mr. Agirnasli a "Proclamation". The last award was presented to Mr. Erden Arkan, who was acknowledged for his "Selfless Dedication and Tireless Work" for our community.

The highlights of the evening was "Ayhan Sicimoglu and Latin All Stars". Everyone stayed on the dance floor and enjoyed the magical music and rhythm. Their performance was truly magnificent. Mr. Sicimoglu's close friend Ms. Uhe and Grammy Award winner Franky Morales also sang beautiful songs giving the guests a true musical feast.

Needless to say, the food, service, music and venue made the Gala memorable. We might add that with the Silent Auction and 50/50 Raffle, our total income for the night exceeded $40,000.00.

We look forward to seeing all of you again in our upcoming events.

Kind regards,

Gala Event Commitee