Paint the Town Red for Ronald McDonald House Charities

Ken Wright toasting with guests Ronald McDonald House event

350 RMHC supporters at the Portland Art Museum

Portland, September 23rd. The 2011 Hearts & Hands Auction benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon and Southwest Washington drew 350 guests, and raised nearly $350,000. The marquee event at the Portland Art Museum included a live auction, with KGW’s Russ Lewis serving as Master of Ceremonies. (Photo Credit, Naim Hasan.) Eye-popping color underscored the theme for the night: Paint the Town Red.

Board Chair Mary Ransome (left) and Executive Director Tom Soma (Right) pose with Partner of Distinction recipients Ken Wright Cellars (represented by Karen and Ken Wright / Center left) and Pacific Northwest Baking (represented by Mike Stevens / center right) recognizing outstanding business involvement with RMHC.

Guests all smiles during the bidding

Board Chair Mary Ransome (left) and Executive Director Tom Soma (Right) pose with Hall of Fame inductees Mike Rich (center left) and Jim Boyer (center right) who were recognized for their outstanding individual involvement with RMHC.

Tara Doherty and Nick Namauu, the RMHC family featured at the event

Tara and Nick’s Story was a highlight of the evening. Here’s a link to the story on YouTube: http://youtu.be/-NgwHztjQvE

RMHC Executive Director Tom Soma wearing “comfortable” shoes and the post auction dance

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Oregon and Southwest Washington provides a “home away from home” for families with seriously ill children, and supports initiatives to improve pediatric health.

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.