(November 30, 2010)  He is a gentleman and a New York Yankees legend. Relief Pitcher and closer Mariano “Mo” Rivera is being presented with The Salvation Army’s Pinnacle of Achievement Award at it’s 64th Annual Luncheon, Thursday, December 1, 2011 at the New York Marriott Marquis. The VIP reception is from 11:00AM to 11:50AM (by invitation only) followed by lunch and the program from NOON-1:30pm.

Despite a vocal chord  health issue, Mo said “Nothing would me from attending- I’m honored to be the recipient of this award.”

The Master of Ceremonies for the luncheon is the Emmy Award-Winning play-by-play announcer for the New York Yankees, Michael Kay, host of The Michael Kay Show on ESPN Radio 1050 New York.

The Salvation Army singles out individuals who have not only made a difference to others in their personal and professional lives, but to those served by The Salvation Army as well. And when it comes to sharing similar values, said Lt. Colonel Guy D. Klemanski, Divisional Commander for Greater New York, Mo is so much more than the greatest closer in the history of Major League Baseball. He is a caring and genuine individual who believes in making a difference for others.”

The Salvation Army’s (TSA) Annual Luncheon could be considered the spiritual kickoff to the Holiday season. In addition to the Red Kettle Campaign, this is The Salvation Army’s largest annual initiative that helps to meet the basic needs of some 750,000 people.

Program details are as follows:

The Community Service Award – Richard D. Buckley
Richard D. Buckley, President of Buckley Broadcasting from 1972-2011 owner of WOR was a great partner with The Salvation Army and the relationship continues because of his efforts. We are honoring Mr. Buckley posthumously with our Community Service Award which will be presented to his wife Connie and daughter Jennifer

The Salvation Army’s Corporate Partnership Award – CITIBANK
The Salvation Army’s Corporate Partnership Award is being presented to
CITIBANK and will be accepted by Citibank Eastern Region Commercial Banking
Group President Robert W. Koar.

CITIBANK is the first corporate sponsor of The Salvation Army Greater New York’s iconic Red Kettle Campaign that raises money during the Holiday season  for those most in need.

About The Salvation Army Greater New York Division: An integral part of the community for 131 years, The Salvation Army in Greater New York operates more than 100 community and social service programs serving more than 750,000 people, regardless of race, religion, nationality, or sexual orientation. For more information, visit our website at www.SalvationArmyNewYork.org