New York real estate leaders raise $120,000 at 6th annual Rockers in Relief event

New York, NY Prominent real estate professionals rocked out for charity on May 17 at the 6th annual Real Estate Rockers in Relief concert at the Highline Ballroom. The concert drew a packed house, raising awareness and over $120,000 for NECHAMA – Jewish Response to Disaster, an organization that assists communities nationwide with long-term domestic disaster recovery, including continued efforts in the tri-state area following Hurricane Sandy.

Over the past six years, the event—founded by Carl Schwartz, co-chair of Hunton & Williams LLP’s global real estate practice, and David Lowenfeld, COO of World Wide Group—has raised over $500,000 for NECHAMA.

 “It’s heartwarming to see members of New York City’s renowned real estate community and its supporters come together to help NECHAMA,” Schwartz said. “This annual benefit concert reflects our unwavering commitment to aiding communities in need and supporting the volunteers who so generously donate their time and energy to help others.”

 “We are grateful for the turnout and support for this year’s event,” Lowenfeld said. “The funds we’ve raised year after year continue to go a long way to support NECHAMA’s mission.”

 The show, which included performances by Schwartz and Lowenfeld, lifelong musicians and connoisseurs of rock and roll, also featured six bands and four special guests. The music ranged from classics by Marvin Gaye, B.B. King, the Grateful Dead, the Rolling Stones and Stevie Wonder, to newer bands like Kings of Leon.

 A sample of the real estate personalities who performed in the show includes:

• Elliot Hurwitz, Chicago Title;

• Evan Pariser, HFF;

• Paul Pariser and Spencer Pariser, Taconic Investment Partners;

• Howard Glatzer, Cadence Property Group;

• Chris LaBianca, UBS Securities;

• Joe Bezzone, BEZZONE Hospitality;

• Laurent Morali, Kushner Cos.;

• Randy Reiff and Ben Milde, Allegiant Real Estate Capital; and

• Jonathan Ratner, Madison Capital.

“We are so appreciative of the tremendous support shown by our performers and the packed house at this year’s Rockers in Relief concert,” said NECHAMA executive director David Kaplan. “Each generous donation will go a long way toward helping Americans across the country rebuild their homes and lives after devastating natural disasters.”