YUCKS AND BUCKS
Malibu funnyman Ray Romano proved to be a stand-up guy as he helped raise money for the Children Affected by AIDS Foundation at “A Night of Comedy V.” The uproarious affair was held amid the elegant art deco confines of the historic Wilshire Theatre in Beverly Hills, where the laugh-out-loud lineup included comedy circuit stars like George Lopez, Sarah Silverman, Kevin James and Brian Callen. The A-list entourage also included Ray’s ‘Bu buddy Jeremy Piven as well as TV mom Doris Roberts.
Ms. Roberts, who has been with the children’s organization since 1993, pointed out that the light-hearted affair helps a very a serious cause. “Every 15 seconds a child is orphaned by AIDS,” the actress said. “Children Affected by Aids Foundation is the sole organization that looks to provide for these children.”
The event raised more the $200,000 to provide food, clothing, housing, mental health care and support services for children affected by AIDS. And that’s bound to put a smile on your face!
BAYKEEPER BASH
Speaking of good deeds, the Santa Monica Baykeeper will be making a splash at its annual Beach Ball. The environmental organization will be tipping its hat to Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Baykeeper Executive Director Tracy Egoscue described this year’s honoree as “a visionary leader” who aims to make Los Angeles “the cleanest and greenest city in America.” She praised his accomplishments, which include a major reduction in sewage spills, the Million Trees L.A. campaign and the Terminal Island Renewable Energy Project.
The sensational on-the-sand shindig takes place in Santa Monica this Saturday and will feature a VIP cocktail reception, live auction and dinner as well as performances by Michelle Mangione and the Bono tribute band, Hollywood U2.
For more information check out www.smbaykeeper.org
FOSSIL FIESTA
When it comes to throwing a memorable fundraising affair, the folks at the Natural History Museum really know how to think big. And this year’s Dinosaur Ball was a real pass to the pre-historic past. Bone-loving gala-goers were greeted by a pack of serious party animals, including a ferocious looking T-Rex and of 50-foot brachiosaurus, which hovered outside the front gates. If you loved “Night at the Museum,” this event was your kind of ‘do. With tons of taxidermy and scores of skeletons to set the scene, it had everything but Robin Williams and Ben Stiller. Wining and dining amid perfectly preserved remains and stuffed bears makes for an adventure that is both entertaining and educational.
The Dino Ball’s party planners insisted on accuracy, with elephant ears and other exotic foliage favorites from 600 million years back. After mingling at the champagne reception and meeting a few specially created critters, guests picked their table assignments from wooden boxes filled with historically correct maidenhair ferns. Inside, they marveled at the museum’s latest and greatest get, a recently excavated dinosaur skull and foot.
Next it was off to the African and North American Halls, where celeb chef Gai Klass was serving up some serious grub. After dinner, guests busted a few moves to the beat of Gloria Gaynor, giving the dino ball a little yabba dabba do!