The events of Hurricane Sandy truly effected us all. The aftermath of this horrendous storm left thousands of animals of all species trapped and stranded in both the New York and New Jersey region. Fortunately help was on the way from the selfless and determined members of the Humane Society of the United States of America Animal Rescue Team. This incredible group was joined by a network of volunteers who wasted not a moment to gain control over these disaster stricken areas. On Tuesday night these generous souls and this organization as a whole were honored at Cipriani 42nd Street for “To The Rescue!” A night for New Yorkers to benefit HSUS’ Animal Rescue Team.

The HSUS is widely regarded as the nation’s largest protection organization for national rights and since the early 1950′s, the organization has utilized a platform for education and advocacy to assist in the rescue of caretaking of countless animals year after year. Focusing on preventing acts of cruelty on these creatures before it occurs, Tuesday evening’s ritzy gala event inside of the posh ballroom was an effort toward fundraising for the forthcoming year. And based solely on the clientele inside and the dearth of empty seats, it was abundantly clear that To the Rescue! was an immense success for the nonprofit organization. The LocalBozo team arrived for the red carpet portion of the evening to welcome many of the City’s elite who have given much of their time and money to the Humane Society. As the red carpet rolled on we spotted event chairs, Georgina Bloomberg daughter of Mayor Michael Bloomberg and actress Rose McGowan walk the press heavy crowd discussing their involvement in the cause. Ms. Bloomberg could even be seen playing with a dog brought by a fellow guest.

With the excellent red carpet entries wrapped up it was time for the reception to commence. Guests and the evenings Humane Advocate Award winners took their seats to enjoy dinner, a live auction, and presentations to the guests of honor. Once the outstanding event at Cipriani 42nd Street concluded the evening was far from over. The LocalBozo team made our way down to the popular Meatpacking district and headed inside the after party taking place at SL (Simyone Lounge). This fantastic post-benefit party was hosted by Honorary Committee members: Rose McGowan, Amanda Hearts, and Georgina Bloomberg. At 9pm guests were welcomed to descend the stairs to the underground lounge to extend their reveling inside, with the help of a tremendous atmosphere and the requisite open bar. They were rewarded in kind with a outstanding selection of spirits.

One particular sponsored liquor received an entire table to display their brand, and Whistle Pig was a spot on, straight rye whiskey. The sprawling table featured their 10 year aged rye proudly. The Pig’s friendly representative informed us that Whistle Pig is independently owned, thus doing their own heavy lifting when it comes to getting the word out. And after taking one sip of it over ice, the drink was downright delicious. The price point is exactly what you would expect to pay for something this pure in rye and proof and worth every penny. As we mingled through the space imbibing, the DJ helped us get into the party even further by busting out great cuts from rockers Fun. and hip-hop queen Rihanna.

- Jay Rubin