VENICE, ANYONE?
Carnevale came early thanks to The Alfred Mann Foundation, which picked an elegant Venetian theme for its annual Innovation and Inspiration Gala. The historic Vibiana Cathedral provided the perfect backdrop for a magical masked ball. The evening was hosted by dance machine Debbie Allen, who sailed in on a golden gondola with two gondoliers in tow. The stage had an equally lavish Venetian flavor, dressed up with architectural elements including copies of the Byzantine horses that grace the entry of Saint Mark’s Basilica. Dinner chairs included locals Edythe and Eli Broad as well as Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito.
There were plenty of civic heavyweights on this year’s honor role. Los Angeles Opera General Director Placido Domingo received the prestigious Artistic Visionary Award. Gayle and Edward Roski picked up the Alfred Mann Foundation Award for Innovation and Vision while Joseph Schulman was given The Alfred Mann Foundation Award for Scientific Achievement. The honor recognizes those who have made significant contributions to medicine.
The silent and live auction tables were filled with one-of-a-kind luxury treats. Heroes star Hayden Panettiere did her part for the program. She put down the winning $30,000 bid on a one-week stay at a 14th century Tuscan villa in Chianti.
Proceeds from the event will benefit the Alfred Mann Foundation, which is dedicated to the exploration and development of advanced medical technologies. Bravo!
DOINGS IN THE DESERT
Locals like Leonardo DiCaprio, Dustin Hoffman and Sean Penn hit the sand last week for the 20th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival. Leo and his “Revolutionary Road” cast members were honored with the Ensemble Performance Award. Dustin, who’s been winning raves for his recent romantic flick “Last Chance Harvey,” was presented with the Chairman’s Honor, while “Milk’s” Sean Penn picked up the Desert Palm Achievement Award.
Famed actor/ director Clint Eastwood, meantime, was feted with the Career Achievement Award. “Clint Eastwood is a living legend who continually raises the bar of artistic expression with each new film, whether he is acting, directing, or producing,” said Festival Chairman Harold Matzner. “We are honored to present him with this award.”
The actor’s extraordinary body of work includes his most recent film, “Gran Torino,” which he stars in and directed.
The critically acclaimed Torino is Clint’s first film role since 2005’s “Million Dollar Baby,” which won him Oscars for both Best Picture and Best Director. He also earned a nomination for Best Actor. Earlier this year, he directed and produced the drama “Changeling,” starring Angelina Jolie.
The spry 78-year-old shows no sign of slowing down. Up next, he’ll direct and produce an inspiring drama set in post-apartheid South Africa, starring Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman, who portrays Nelson Mandela. So congrats. Here’s looking at you, Clint!
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