Michael Capponi Celebrates Birthday/Fundraiser Haitian Carnaval Style

Michael Capponi, hospitality entrepreneur and philanthropist, threw a carnaval themed birthday party fundraiser benefiting his charity, which helps the earthquake victims in Haiti, on Friday, May 4.

Although it was Capponi’s 40^th birthday, the event at Capitale focused on the education, job creations and vocational training Capponi and his team put together in Jacmel, ground zero for the 2010 Haiti earthquake.  The fundraiser party raised $120,000 towards his non-profit Haiti Empowerment Mission.

Over 1,000 guests, including Honorary Chairs Donna Karan, Seth Greenberg, Valeria Post, Peri Callimanopulos and Dayssi Kanavos, celebrated carnaval style with Jacmel dancers, Hatian cuisine, cocktails provided by Rhum Barbencourt and live performances by Haitian musicians Melky Jean and DJ Jus-Ske.

In one corner of the colorfully lighted hall guests partook in a silent auction with items such as exhibitions by Peter Tunney and Philippe Dodard up for grabs.

Notable guests included NBC “The Today Show’s” style contributor, Jill Martin, New York Fashion Week producer, Fern Mallis and Consul General of Haiti in New York, Charles Forbin.

Ludus, Marquis Vodka, Capponi Construction Group and Capitale sponsored the event.

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