By Robert Pearl
WABC Radio brought together broadcasting legends, entertainers, civic leaders and political figures Friday night at Cipriani 42nd Street for its 9/11 & Freedom 250 Gala, commemorating 25 years since the September 11 attacks while also recognizing America’s 250th anniversary.
Prior to the program, was a live broadcast from Cipriani’s as the room filled with guests. John Catsimatidis, owner/operator of WABC and Red Apple Media, co-hosted with veteran broadcaster Rita Cosby and former Gov. David Paterson, welcoming a stream of high-profile guests.
As attendees entered the landmark venue, the evening quickly became a reunion of New York radio, entertainment, public figures and political candidates, blending remembrance, patriotism and live performance. Among those in attendance were many notables including former Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, WOR talk host Mark Simone, and WABC personalities Dominic Carter, Lionel, Joe Concha, Dr. Marc Siegel, Dick Morris, Michael Cohen and Walter Sterling. (Pictured above from l-r are: Simone, Lionel, and Sterling.)
John and Margo Catsimatidis took the stage during the program, joined by Red Apple Media president Chad Lopez, hosting an evening benefiting Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Police Athletic League and the George Pataki Foundation.
Former New York Governor George Pataki, honored for his leadership following the September 11 attacks, received the “Leadership Crisis Award.” Pataki reflected on the loss, resilience and unity that followed one of the darkest days in the city’s history. He recalled New Yorkers and Americans standing “shoulder to shoulder” in the aftermath and urged the country to remember the unity that emerged from the tragedy.
Veteran columnist and New York media icon Cindy Adams received a Lifetime Achievement Award, deadpanning, “It’s about time.”
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, recognized with the “Guardian of New York Award,” delivered remarks and a prayer, praising the city’s first responders, health care workers, civic leaders and others who have helped New Yorkers through times of crisis.
The gala closed on a powerful patriotic note as Lee Greenwood performed his signature anthem, “God Bless the U.S.A.,” bringing the crowd together for a fitting conclusion to an evening dedicated to remembrance, resilience and freedom.
Robert Pearl is a Brooklyn-based journalist who writes about New York City media, politics, and culture. He can be emailed at pearlknows@yahoo.com.