The Skin Cancer Foundation salutes two executives at gala

NEW YORK The Skin Cancer Foundation held its annual Skin Sense Award Gala on Oct. 12, honoring Al Robertson, general manager and CMO of Energizer Personal Care, and Gabriel Tanbourgi, president of BASF Care Chemicals, for their leadership roles in promoting skin health.

The event, held at the Pierre Hotel in New York, attracted roughly 350 people.

"The Skin Sense Award Gala is always a very special night for the foundation, and we deeply appreciate everyone's support in making the evening a success," stated Perry Robins, president of The Skin Cancer Foundation. "We know that people are well-aware of the dangers of the sun. However, our research tells us that most people still resist making sun protection a part of their lifestyle. Clearly, there is much work to be done, which is why the Gala is so important."

Showing their support for the cause were actors Kevin Navayne of "CSI: New York" and Tony Sirico, formerly of "The Sopranos," and an array of notable guests from the fashion, music, food and reality TV industries. Attendees included acclaimed food critic Gael Greene, musicians Sylvia Tosun and Matt White and fashion insiders Richie Rich and Nole Marin.

Sam Champion, weather anchor of ABC's "Good Morning America," hosted the night's festivities. Champion has battled skin cancer and has done much to raise awareness about the disease.

The program also included a special performance by piano iconoclast ELEW, known for his melding of ragtime, rock and pop, called rockjazz. For the first time, the Gala included an exclusive after party.