MAIS OUI!
It was “April in Paris” as more than a thousand colorfully clad folk flocked to the Grand Ballroom at the Beverly Hilton Hotel for the annual Odyssey Ball. Every year, the John Wayne Cancer Institute Auxiliary picks a festive theme for its annual fundraiser and this one took you straight to the City of Lights.
In the spirit of Moulin Rouge, the place was decked out like a turn-of-the-century sidewalk caf, complete with vintage posters, old-world kiosks and fragrant flower carts.
The authentic atmosphere had dancers from Ballet by the Sea putting their best foot forward. The young performers traded their tights and toe shoes for frilly can-can skirts, ankle boots and bows, and in true Parisian style, they proceeded to kick up a storm.
’60s game-meister Monty Hall emerged from door No. 3 to emcee the event and former teen idol Frankie Avalon delivered a medley of golden oldies.
But to many, Dr. Armando Giuliano was the real star of the show. Giuliano heads the institute’s surgical oncology department and serves as the director of its Joyce Eisenberg Keefer Breast Center. The respected doctor received the “Duke” award for his contributions to cancer research and treatment.
The celebration raised more than $1 million and drew the largest crowd in its 17-year history. As far as the late John Wayne’s daughter-in-law is concerned, Giuliano played a key role in the evening’s success.
“It’s all because of ‘Dr. G,'” said Gretchen Wayne, who helped co-chair the gala. “Everyone wanted to be part of it.”
OOOH, LA, LA!
When we last left bride-to-be Pamela Anderson and music man Kid Rock, the two had their hands full at a lively engagement party that apparently featured a rather racy selection of sex toys. Well, nothing about this couple is ho-hum and you’ve got give ’em points for style.
The Rockman reportedly proposed to his VIP babe on a gravel stretch of dirt outside Vegas as Elvis pulled up in a pink Cadillac to present her with a dazzling rock of a diamond ring.
As we wait for the big day with great anticipation, there’s news from the fashion front. The question on everybody’s mind-what will they be wearing? Vera Wang? No way! Think Frederick’s of Hollywood. We hear that Ms. Pam will be a vision in denim, sporting cutoff short shorts and an itty-bitty bra top. The Kid is said to be leaning toward leather pants, a tasteful leopard-print vest and felt hat. In keeping with tradition, the bridesmaids will be wearing mini skirts, crop-tops and no telling how many tattoos.