On February 27, 2025, Gloria Starr Kins hosted a warm dinner at her New York home on 131 East 66th Street, joined by friends and diplomats to honor Walid Maalouf, leader of the Lebanese American Renaissance Partnership (LARP). Co-supported by the Capitol Institute and Maria Maalouf, the night buzzed with talk, featuring H.E. Majdi Ramadan, Lebanon’s Consul General, and members of the Lebanese American Coordinating Committee (LACC). Hummus, lamb, and baklava fueled the group, but their shared ideas and laughter made it memorable.
Gloria kicked things off with a welcoming voice. “Eat up and let’s talk,” she said, turning to Walid. “What’s this Lebanon trip?” Walid, grinning, replied, “LARP V, Gloria. October’s when we go back to help—real action, not just words.” His energy hooked everyone. Majdi Ramadan, steady and grounded, added, “It’s about homes and schools for kids.” The diplomats nodded, keeping it lively.
Maria Maalouf couldn’t attend but sent a note praising Gloria’s hosting and Walid’s bold leadership. She highlighted Lebanon’s struggles—poverty, hunger, lost kids—and said LARP V was fighting back with hope and action. The Capitol Institute backed it, she added, ending with a toast to Walid and Lebanon’s rise. The group passed her words around, raised glasses, and felt the lift.
Talk turned to October’s plans. Majdi stressed practical help like roofs over heads. Others chimed in with their own contributions—food, spirit, support. Walid said, “That’s LARP V—us, doing our part.” His quiet strength rang true, met with nods. Gloria later toasted, “To Walid, pushing us forward.” He blushed, mumbling, “Too much, Gloria,” as claps filled the room.
The night wrapped with warmth no February chill could touch. Gloria, Walid, Majdi, and the LACC voices—serious yet full of care—tied it to a real plan for Lebanon. Maria’s message sealed it: a spark of action, not just talk, making it a night to remember.
