SLAM DUNK
Los Angeles Lakers Coach Phil Jackson was the MVP at this year’s MDA All Star bash. Hundreds of friends, fans and A-list athletes joined Jackson at the Biltmore Hotel for the dinner, auction and awards ceremony. Jackson was declared the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s “Sportsman of the Year.” The basketball king told the group he believes in working hard on and off the court. He pledged his continued support for MDA saying, “It’s great to be part of this team.”
SPRING FLING
When Barbara Sinatra organized something grand on the sand in Palm Springs a few weeks back, she didn’t have any problem recruiting some of old Hollywood’s most famous faces. Tani and William Austin’s oasis in Rancho Mirage provided the perfect backdrop for a two-day bash called the “Desert Extravaganza.”
Always effervescent Ruta Lee was there as well as longtime pals Norm Crosby, Harold Matzner and Beverly Rogers. They mingled over cocktails while Bill Marx played a breezy selection of old school tunes. Songbird Kelly Smith was also on hand with renditions of “My Way” and “That Old Black Magic” for an added touch of nostalgia.
The Palms Springs posse was rounded up to benefit a good cause of course. Proceeds will go toward the Thalian’s health care programs.
THANKS FOR THE MEMORY
It’s time for another one of those fab Hollywood wardrobe and prop auctions, and you won’t believe what’s up for grabs this time. From Egyptian thrones to royal swords, they’ve got everything to make you feel like a king – or even a duke. Check it out pilgrim! For about 20K you can swagger around in John Wayne’s mud-encrusted cowboy boots. They’re the genuine article straight from the set of “True Grit.” Throw in another four grand for the stylish matching eye patch and drive your partner wild with desire.
Out for a more serious fashion statement? Try Russell Crowe’s impressive Roman breastplate and red plumed helmet form “Gladiator.” Don these gems and get the respect you deserve. If your mojo craves even more, get totally shagadellic in Austin Power’s electric blue- and purple-striped suit. Yeah Baby! For as little as three grand, you can put the grrrr back in swinger. For a look that’s out of this world, sport Mister Spock’s plush, pink tunic as seen on the deck of the Starship Enterprise (Ears not included).
As for my personal fave, it’s that yummy black-and-white ascot frock sported by Audrey Hepburn in “My Fair Lady,” complete with its massive ostrich feather chapeau. At $100,000-$150,000 it’s pricey. But who can argue with a lover-ly crowd pleaser like this? The auction takes place in Beverly Hills on March 31.