| LENOX HILL HOSPITAL
Autumn Ball 2003 Raises
Record Breaking $2.5 Million By Edward T. Callaghan
Photos by Rob Rich  HE Waldorf-Astoria Grand Ballroom was the setting for the Lenox Hill Hospital Autumn Ball 2003, which celebrated the hospital’s dedicated doctors, nurses, staff and benefactors. For over a century the Autumn Ball has been regarded as one of the season’s most glamorous events, and this year was no exception.
Themed Fantastique, The Greatest Show On Earth! the evening was chaired by Jane and Michael Hoffman and vice chaired by Ellen and Daniel Crown and Dr. James J. and Joyce Richter, MD. The three couples led a committee that included a dynamic roster of New York leaders in medicine, publishing, media, the arts and philanthropy, raising a record-breaking $2.5 million much to the delight of Gladys George, the hospital’s president. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the hospital’s highest honor, the 2003 Medal of Distinction, to The Today Show co-host Al Roker and 20/20 correspondent Deborah Roberts. Presenting the award was their colleague and friend Ann Curry of The Today Show who was accompanied by her husband, Brian Ross. Innovative producer Patrick Bonomo and his troupe of international performers added a Big Top touch. The brightly colored yellow and orange flowers, glittering circus tent candles and animal cracker box place card holders transformed the normally staid Grand Ballroom into a vintage European circus setting! | 
