Tag: Robert Pearl

by Robert Pearl
Exclusive to TALKERS

New York’s Cipriani 42nd Street once again played host to one of radio’s most anticipated annual events of the year: the annual “77 WABC Gala,” held this past Friday (9/5). The spectacular evening blended star-studded entertainment, heartfelt tributes, and plenty of radio family camaraderie – all while raising funds for three cornerstone charities: Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Police Athletic League, and Shriners Children’s Hospital.

The night doubled as the unofficial kickoff to America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, with patriotic spirit filling the storied hall. Guests were treated to a spectacular mix of tradition and pageantry: bagpipes opened the evening, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a soaring rendition of the national anthem from tenor Chris Macchio, fresh from performing at President Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration. Later, country music legend Lee Greenwood brought the house to its feet with “God Bless the USA,” a fitting soundtrack to the night’s theme.

Radio Legend Served as Emcee

The event was emceed by “Cousin” Bruce Morrow, who set the tone with trademark warmth and humor. Featured performances by Vinnie Medugno, and Joe Piscopo with homage to Frank Sinatra classics. Fellow WABC hosts and personalities were out in force: Sid Rosenberg (with wife Danielle), Curtis and Nancy Sliwa, Dominic Carter, Greg Kelly (joined by his father, longtime NYPD commissioner Ray Kelly), Lionel and his wife Lynn Shaw (founder of Lynn’s Warriors), Brian Kilmeade, Rita Cosby, Lisa G, Anthony Cumia, news director James Flippant, and anchor Liz Ratoballi.

WABC owner John Catsimatidis and Red Apple Media president Chad Lopez anchored the front row, alongside Margo Catsimatidis, who was celebrated as the event’s “First Lady of WABC.”  Longtime friend (and WOR personality) Mark Simone – dubbed “Mr. New York”- was on hand, underscoring the collegiality of the broader talk radio community. The gala also drew figures beyond radio, including Mayor Eric Adams and his electoral rival Curtis Sliwa sitting a few tables apart, economic voice Larry Kudlow, the relentless patriot and activist artist Scott LoBaido, Newsmax’s Johnny Tobacco of Wiseguys, and philanthropist Frank Siller of Tunnel to Towers.

Charity with Purpose

While the evening sparkled with entertainment and personality, its heart was rooted in the causes it championed. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, founded in honor of fallen firefighter Stephen Siller, continues its mission of supporting first responders and veterans, promising to pay off the mortgages of the fallen. The Police Athletic League, New York City’s largest independent youth development nonprofit, provides educational and recreational programs to children in need. And Shriners Children’s Hospital, a global leader in pediatric specialty care, ensures children receive treatment regardless of a family’s ability to pay. These organizations were not just beneficiaries but central characters in a story of service, community, and giving back.

A Night of Theater and Patriotism

Beyond the music, the gala leaned into a spectacle. Impersonators dressed as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Uncle Sam strolled the ballroom, taking pictures with guests. Later, Lady Liberty herself dramatically popped out of a massive birthday cake as red, white, and blue balloons cascaded from the ceiling. Guests waved WABC-branded light sticks in rhythm with the performances, further amplifying the carnival-like energy.

And as tradition dictates, September’s Virgo birthdays were honored in grand style. Joe Piscopo led a rousing “Happy Birthday” for John Catsimatidis and fellow celebrants, which seamlessly transitioned into a full-throated “God Bless America,” with the entire ballroom on its feet.

Political Undertones in a Festive Setting

While the evening was designed as a patriotic celebration, politics were never far from the surface. Just hours before the gala, Mayor Adams publicly doubled down on his mayoral campaign, brushing aside speculation of a possible exit. At Cipriani, Adams was greeted politely – but the room roared when Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa was announced, highlighting the unique political currents swirling through the city and this radio community.

Still, the prevailing message was unity and celebration. “We celebrate America together,” said Greenwood before launching into his anthem. It was a fitting capstone to an event that blended entertainment, politics, and philanthropy in a way unique to WABC.

As the gala wound down, guests departed with gift bags in hand, many still humming Greenwood’s refrain. With its mix of glamour, gravitas, and good causes, the 2025 WABC Gala set the stage not just for America’s 250th birthday, but also for the enduring influence of talk radio as a cultural and political force.

Robert Pearl is a New York City-based freelance journalist.  He can be reached at pearlknows@yahoo.com.