6 NEW YORK, NY: ESCAPE MEDICAL P.C., a premier aesthetics and wellness spa, based in Rome, Upstate New York, hosted its signature event, the Beauty & Humanitarian Awards Gala, at the Beeches Manor on Saturday, June 21. The Caribbean heritage-themed black-tie gala, produced by celebrity stylist Diva Madonna and Lashana Thomas, founder of DML Creative Consulting, Inc., opened with a glamorous red carpet reception and open bar, welcoming honorees, community leaders and distinguished guests from across Central New York. Billed as a celebration of excellence in healthcare, wellness, beauty and humanitarian service, patrons were treated to powerful live performances, including a soulful set by CJW, a standout talent from The Voice, and an unforgettable vocal performance by singer-songwriter Perri Jones, featuring her original hit “Free.” The evening’s most talked-about moment was the ‘Beauty with a Purpose’ runway segment, curated by Diva Madonna and featuring designs by Lana Dimashki and a tribute to the strength, style and purpose of women in beauty and service. AWARD RECIPIENTS This year’s award recipients were honoured for their leadership, dedication and service to their communities, as follows; Pioneer in Integrated Health & Humanitarian Care Award – Kate Rolf, president & CEO, Nascentia Health, Inc. Excellence in Health Innovation & Service Award Anne Marie WalkerCzyz, RN, Ed.D., NEA-BC, president & CEO, Rome Health. The Legacy of Leadership: Civic & Humanitarian Excellence Award went to Anthony J. Picente, Jr., Oneida County executive. The award for Mental Wellness & Service Excellence, was presented to Dr. Candace Carter, DNP, PMHNP-BC, psychiatric nurse practitioner, Liberty Resources. Wellness Champions & Community Impact Award - Tiffany Mills & Erin Costello, owners of Copper City Fitness. Makeup Artist of the Year – Nicole Cieslewitz, founder, Makeup by Nicole Marie. The Transformative Touch: Haircare & Humanity Award went to Erin Weldon, owner of Tangles. The Distinguished Community Impact honoree was Kelley Uvanni, marketing director at JM. The highlight of the awards ceremony was the presentation of the Caribbean Heritage & Community Legacy citation to Sandra and Carlloyd Gowe, proud Jamaica-born entrepreneurs and owners of Island Breeze Bar & Restaurant in Utica, Upstate NY. Their business has become a cornerstone of Caribbean culture in the region, offering authentic island cuisine, community engagement and a vibrant cultural experience that reflects their heritage. Their commitment to cultural preservation and small business excellence was celebrated with a standing ovation. Community leaders honoured at Beauty & Humanitarian awards gala RED CARPET TREATMENT. Entrepreneurs Sandra (centre) and Carl Lloyd Gowe (right), owners/operators of Island Breeze Bar & Grill, Utica, NY, celebrated with their three sons (from left); Gary, Carlloyd Jr., Chad), at the Escape Medical PC-endorsed Beauty & Humanitarian Awards Gala, Rome, NY, recently. The pair was presented with the Caribbean Heritage & Community Legacy Award. GLAMOROUS. Diva Madonna (left), celebrity stylist and co-producer, and model Janalyn Thurber (right), strut their stuff on the red carpet at the recently held Escape Medical PC-endorsed Beauty & Humanitarian Awards Gala, in celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month (June), at the Breezes Manor, Rome, NY. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS THE WEEKLY GLEANER | JULY 24 - AUGUSt 24, 2025 | www.jamaica-gleaner.com | NEWS
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