SEPTEMBER 28th 2007

   New York, NY - XX, 2007 – The Turkish Cultural Center New York’s Annual Friendship Dinner on September 28th, 2007, 6:00-11:00p.m. at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel is intended to promote the ideals of world peace, international co-operation and exchange of culture and ideas amongst people from all walks of life.

   Held during Ramadan, the dinner breaks the daily fast with a celebration that includes a feast of halal, kosher and vegetarian cuisine combined with live entertainment, Turkish sufi concert by famous group Omar Faruk Tekbilek as well as presentations from distinguished speakers including Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and NY Senator Hillary Rodman Clinton. Last year’s Dinner featured speeches from Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton; Omer Onhon, New York Consulate General of Turkey; Mark Mershon, Assistant Director of the FBI New York Office; Rabbi Arthur Schneier of The Park East Synagogue New York; and Father Thomas Michel, Director of the Jesuit Secretariat for Interreligious Dialogue in Rome.

   Featured speakers at the Annual Friendship Dinner are chosen for their leadership and promotion of diversity and unity. For instance, Rabbi Schneier is a Holocaust survivor and has dedicated his life to promoting tolerance and understanding. Father Thomas Michel is a respected theologian and expert on the Muslim culture.

   The Annual Friendship Dinner is held during Ramadan to signify the important lessons imparted on this holy month which includes an appreciation of values like family togetherness, community ties, sharing and helping the less fortunate as well as worship and contemplation. Breaking the fast and sharing meals with acquaintances or strangers is considered a blessing, particularly at this time.

About the Turkish Cultural Center

   The Turkish Cultural Center New York (TCCNY) is North America’s premier source for information on Turkey’s rich history and the promotion of its culture and heritage. This non-profit organization is committed to community involvement and actively encourages international cultural exchanges via special events which include business exchange, multicultural discussion forums, international conferences, trips to Turkey, language courses, art exhibitions, workshops, book signings and seminars given by prominent scholars and politicians.

   The TCCNY’s core principle is to foster closer ties culturally and educationally between the citizens of the United States and Turkey as well as making a significant contribution to the cherished ideal of national and global peace and security. There are four key areas of endeavor including: Turkish Studies, Business Center, Turkish American Women’s Society and the Intercultural Dialogue Committee.

   The TCCNY is located in the heart of New York City at 560 Lexington Avenue on the 16th floor and is open from Mondays to Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information please visit www.turkishculturalcenter.com or call 212-696-1060. A calendar of events and enrollment options for classes and events is also available on the CCNY website.