Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center celebrates 20th annual Premier Gala with 'A Night in the Emerald City'

Annual fundraising gala at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino to celebrate community leaders & support advanced cardiac care at Heart Center of Niagara

Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Press Release and Graphic

Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center announced its 20th-anniversary celebration of The Premier fundraising gala, “A Night in the Emerald City,” will take place Jan. 18, 2025, at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino.

This year's event will shine brighter than ever, with a theme highlighting the brains, hearts and courage of the Niagara community! Proceeds from the gala will support Memorial’s cardiac services, ensuring that critical care and advanced treatments continue to be available for those in the Niagara Region who need them most.

Every year, The Premier also honors individuals who have made a lasting impact and continue to make a difference in the Niagara community. The event’s 2025 honorees include:

•Bob DiFrancesco: A lifelong educator and respected community leader, DiFrancesco will be posthumously honored with the Nancy Gara Spirit Award for his unwavering dedication to service and advocacy across the Niagara Region. DiFrancesco dedicated 44 years to education, rising to principal of both Niagara Falls High School and Niagara Catholic High School before retiring in 2013. His commitment to bettering the lives of others extended beyond the classroom, as he served on numerous boards, including NFMMC, Niagara Cerebral Palsy, and the Niagara Police Athletic League. Known for his humor, compassion and tireless work ethic, DiFrancesco leaves a legacy of profound impact on countless students, colleagues and community members.

•Dr. Sachin Wadhawan: Chief of cardiology at NFMMC, Wadhawan will be honored with the Physicians Award at The Premier for his exceptional contributions to cardiac care at the Heart Center of Niagara. Since joining NFMMC in 2012, Wadhawan has led efforts to expand and enhance cardiology services, introducing advanced treatments that have significantly improved patient outcomes. He is board-certified in cardiology and internal medicine, with a residency and fellowship from the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Toronto.

Michelle and Chris Talley, longtime supporters of Memorial with deep roots in the Niagara Region – and owners of Kid to Kid – will co-chair the event.

Maryalice Demler, television journalist and news anchor for WGRZ-TV Channel 2, returns as emcee for the event. Demler, part of the longest-tenured anchor team in Western New York, has earned recognition from the New York Emmys, Associated Press, and Edward R. Murrow Awards for her reporting and community service excellence.

This year, Demler will be joined by the Rev. Craig Pridgen, senior pastor at True Bethel Baptist Church, as co-emcee to guide the evening’s festivities. Pridgen, a Buffalo native, leads his church in Niagara Falls and is known for his community advocacy and spiritual leadership. He serves on several boards, including Literacy New York and NFMMC, and currently serves as president of The Niagara Falls Ministerial Council.

Together, they will bring energy, experience, and a shared commitment to the Niagara community.

The Emerald City Band will take the stage as the evening’s headline entertainment. This dynamic 13-member group from Texas is renowned for its high-energy performances at prestigious venues, including the White House. With a diverse repertoire that spans dance classics and contemporary hits, they are sure to deliver an electrifying show that will keep guests on their feet all night long.

Due to the event's overwhelming popularity, tickets are expected to sell quickly. For ticketing, sponsorship, and donation inquiries, call 716-278-4605 or email [email protected].