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I’d never presume to speak for Tom’s fans, but I’m sure you’ll all join me in sending warm, heartfelt congratulations to Tom!
Tom received the Friars Foundation Artistic Scholarship Applause Award, one of three given tonight to “artists and industry titans who have shown outstanding merit and achievement, and whose careers have contributed positively to their industry and to the world of entertainment.”
As you can see in the photo, the Applause Award trophy is, actually, a pair of hands applauding. Is there a sweeter sound than applause to any performer?
In addition to Sir Tom Jones and the evening’s two other honorees — Natalie Cole and Leslie Moonves — among others attending the dinner were Chairman of The Friars Foundation, Ambassador Joseph Zapalla; Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and author Elie Weisel (who recently accompanied President Obama to the site of Buchenwald); bandleader Paul Schaffer; Dionne Warwick; comedian Norm Crosby (who opened for Tom many times, including his first show at MSG); comedian Robert Klein (who starred with Lucie Arnaz on Broadway in They’re Playing Our Song; and CBS personality Julie Chen who is married to honoree Les Moonves.
According to Ambassador Zapalla, “Our mission to foster the performing arts could not have better examples of the achievements individuals can make in the entertainment industry. The Friars Foundation is proud of their accomplishments and we’re pulling out the stops for a successful fundraising event.”
The Friars Foundation was established in 1977 as the charitable arm of the Friars Club. The mission of the Foundation is to help small performing arts groups create innovative and affordable programs that will educate, entertain and enrich the lives of diverse audiences and participants. Additionally, the Foundation helps prepare the next generation of performers and musical artists through scholarship programs for students studying the performing arts.
Click on photo to see video of Red Carpet
