Ronald McDonald House New York's 21st Annual Gala Raises A Historic $6 Million

New York City's brightest stars in the retail and financial industries turned out in record numbers to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Ronald McDonald House New York. Held last night at the Waldorf Astoria New York, the event raised more than $6 million - the highest amount raised at a gala in the organization's history. For the third consecutive year, ABC news anchor, author and talk show host Barbara Walters served as master of ceremonies at the gala, while the event honored Macy's Inc.'s Chief Merchandising Officer Jeff Gennette, Diana DiMenna, noted philanthropist and her husband Joseph DiMenna, managing director of Zweig-DiMenna Associates Inc.

"There is nothing more powerful or awe-inspiring than to bear witness as New Yorkers come together, giving so much of their time and resources to help children in the fight of their lives," said Stanley B. Shopkorn, chairman of the Ronald McDonald House Board of Directors, and managing partner of Hilltop Park Associates LLC. "In the thirty-five years that Ronald McDonald House New York has been a part of the New York City landscape, we have never seen such an outpouring as we saw this evening. We will forever be grateful for the hard work of our event's leadership and many others who have worked so diligently to share the importance of our mission."

The evening led off with an invocation by His Eminence Timothy CardinAl Dolan of the New York Archdiocese. Special attendees included Terry Lundgren, chairman & president of Macy's Inc.; Tina Lundgren, Ronald McDonald House New York Board Vice Chairman; Kenneth G. Langone, president & CEO of Invemed Associates Inc.; Board Member Judy Gilbert & New York Rangers legend Rod Gilbert; Dave Davis, president of WABC-TV; and CNN's Felicia Taylor.

The 21st annual gala received additional musical support from the cast of "Motown: The Musical," featuring a special rendition of "Reach Out and Touch" by actress and singer Valisia LeKae, who performs as Diana Ross in the Broadway musical. "Motown" Associate Producer Schele Williams served as show director for the 21(st) annual gala. Forty performers representing Broadway Inspirational Voices were also on-hand to provide a heavenly musical accompaniment to the event, led by Founder and Musical Director Michael McElroy.

The funds raised will help Ronald McDonald House New York to provide temporary housing for children battling cancer and their families while the child receives treatment at one or more of 13 nearby partnering hospitals throughout the city.

To view images and other highlights from the event, please visit www.facebook.com/rmhnewyork. High-resolution images for print and Web publication are also available. To learn more about Ronald McDonald House New York House or to make a donation, please visit www.rmh-newyork.org.