The New York State Jewelers Association, founded in 1909 to foster, promote, and protect the welfare of jewelers in the state, will host its Centennial Anniversary celebration with a gala dinner on Saturday, July 25, at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

The special evening will bring together members, partners, and friends to salute the accomplishments of the NYSJA as well as the continued success of both the watch and jewelry industries.

“We are extremely proud of the accomplishments that the NYSJA has made over the past century,” said Joel Kopel, president, NYSJA. “Our perseverance, continued success and legacy are testaments to our members and partners who have been incredibly supportive of our mission and of our charitable efforts over the years. So that’s who this night is really all about and we share the celebration with each and every one of them.”

On this landmark occasion, the NYSJA is partnering with Wounded Warrior Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting the veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars in overcoming their injuries and helping them to return to civilian life. Proceeds generated during the night’s silent and live auctions will be donated to WWP by the NYSJA.

New York Yankees outfielder, Johnny Damon will be the guest of honor for the evening. Damon, the national spokesman for Wounded Warrior Project, will be joined at the centennial gala by local, New York members of the United States Armed Forces who have been severely injured during their military service. WWP is a favored charity of the New York Yankees.

The evening’s program will acknowledge its members who are also celebrating 100 year anniversaries in 2009 as well as those who have already marked this milestone in their respective histories. These members include brands such as Cartier, William Barthman, Tourneau, Tiffany, Wempe, Crosman & Son Inc., and H.L. Gross & Bros.

NYSJA has more than 600 members representing retailers, designers, suppliers, and manufacturers throughout the Empire State.

For information regarding NYSJA Centennial Anniversary Gala sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, contact Barbara Keefe Rosenstein, executive director or visit www.newyorkjewelers.org.

JCK