CAUSE FOR CONCERN
Derek Alpert’s Concern Foundation continues to pull in big bucks in the fight against cancer. Concern’s festive fundraiser at Paramount Pictures raised a whopping $1.2 million.
The celebrity-studded evening took place at the studio’s New York Street back lot and was entitled, “The Wonderful World of Sports-and Olympic Effort to Conquer Cancer.” Noted orthopedic surgeon and Los Angeles Clippers team physician, Dr. Tony Daly, was this year’s honoree. The respected doctor was hailed for his various humanitarian good works in general and the time and money he has devoted to eradicating cancer in particular.
The truly courageous took their turns at the karaoke corner where they belted out favorites like “New York, New York,” while food fans sampled a three-block spread that catered to every conceivable taste.
Thirty-six L.A. area eateries served up everything from chilled summer soup to pine nut pasta. Crowds gathered as they rolled them up at Hana Sushi and carved up a storm at Lawry’s. But the longest lines formed at an unlikely spot–not for fresh ahi or roasted leg of lamb, but the humble Pink’s hot dog. So what’s the big attraction? “It’s all beef, it’s juicy and it snaps when you bite into it,” explained Pink’s proprietor. “You can have roast beef any day, but you don’t always come across Pinks.” Okay, get ’em while they’re hot!
GLOBAL WARMING
Speaking of good deeds, Malibu’s Pierce Brosnan continues to live up to his reputation as one of the city’s most tireless activists on the international scene. The Bond Man has contributed time and money to numerous humanitarian and environmental causes and doesn’t seem to overlook an opportunity–even when it comes to his own wedding.
Brosnan will reportedly open a vocational school in Katmandu for Tibetans in exile with the money raised from the coverage of his recent wedding to longtime love Keely Shaye Smith.
MASKS AND MAGIC
The Starlight Children’s Foundation is pulling out all the stops for what could well be one of the year’s splashiest celebrations. On Sept. 8, the organization will host an authentic Venetian ball, complete with Venetian chandeliers, carpets, tapestries, masks, costumes and performers.
“We are going to recreate a true Venetian ball,” said organizer Pascale Fortunat. “There has never been anything like it. If you don’t have the time to go to Venice, we will bring Venice to you. ” So If you’re too busy for that quick romantic get away to Europe this summer, take heart. The Venetian Ball may be just the ticket. Buon viaggio!