New York’s First Lady Libby Pataki’s strong stand on health issues, Marvin Hamlisch’s musical versatility, and the late Roone Arledge’s legacy in television journalism were recognized at the American Cancer Society’s Annual Spring Gala. The bubbling-over event celebrated the Society’s 90th anniversary, and the proceeds went towards cancer research, education, and advocacy. Amb. Charles Gargano, Claudia Cohen, Phyllis George, and Barbara and Marty Zwieg chaired the benefit; and Hamlisch’s piano accompaniment of Les Miserables’ tenor J. Mark McVey highly entertained the A-throng.

In the mix were Paula Zahn, Anne and Charlotte Ford, Susan and John Hess, Kathie Lee and Frank Gifford, Arlene Dahl and Marc Rosen, Barbara and Donald Tober, Isobel and Ron Konecky, Barbara Taylor Bradford, and Carole and Earle Mack.

“Oh dear! I think I must have worn the same dress to the last party you photographed me at,” confided Libby Pataki (with daughter Emily at her side). We were quick to reassure her that we remembered the photos keenly, and she was definitely wearing something else!

Kathie Lee Gifford again reminisced to The Sheet about her father, who encouraged her to discover her hidden talents and become a risk taker. “If you can do it with your eyes closed, find something else to do,” recalled Gifford, quoting her dad. We also caught up with former Miss America Phyllis George, who’s preparing to launch “Southern Secrets,” her own chic cosmetic and skin care line to be sold on a home shopping network (as yet, unnamed). Fresh from the success of her inspirational read, Never Say Never: Ten Lessons to Turn “You Can’t” Into “Yes I Can,” we’ve no doubt that Phyllis’ foray into beauty products will meet the same quick success!