Leadership, Legacy, and the Future of New York: Inside the Police Athletic League Gala Luncheon

Yesterday, I had the honor of attending a gala luncheon organized by the top leadership of the Police Athletic League (PAL) in New York City. Among the distinguished guests were John Catsimatidis, chairman, billionaire, entrepreneur, and philanthropist; former Lieutenant Governor of New York State Betsy McCaughey; as well as the guest of honor, legendary Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, a true “cops’ cop,” an emblematic figure of both New York City and the United States. Commissioner Kelly spoke with authority and experience about the major dangers currently facing New York City. At the same time, our city is approaching the mayoral elections, where Zohran Mamdani — born in Uganda and a self-declared socialist and anti-capitalist — is the leading candidate. Should he win, he risks causing even more harm to New York than one of his predecessors, former Mayor Bill de Blasio. The city’s 9 million citizens must be fully aware of what is at stake. Also present were numerous business leaders, investors, and members of New York’s elite. The event was not only a celebration of leadership and the vision of this metropolis’ key figures, but also a demonstration of generosity: over $250,000 was raised, funds dedicated to the needy children of New York, through PAL.