STYLE FILE
Sculptor Robert Graham and actor Dennis Hopper watched supermodels strut their stuff at the Otis College of Art and Design’s 19th Annual Critic’s Awards Fashion Show. They joined celebrity style makers for a look at the very latest on the fashion front featuring the school’s most promising students. Judges included famed designers Nicole Miller, Cynthia Rowley and Alexandra Alfaro, who handed out this year’s Silver Thimble Awards. The runway extravaganza marks the end of an academic year, which gave students the opportunity to work under the direction of the country’s leading stylists.
HILL STREET NEWS
Music man George Benson helped jazz things up at the Urban League’s 28th Annual Whitney M. Young Awards Dinner, where mega-producer Steven Bochco was the man of the hour. The creative force behind hit-series like “Hill Street Blues,” “L.A. Law” and “NYPD Blue” was honored for his many contributions in promoting positive role models through the media.
Bochco was hailed for his “outstanding leadership as an industry leader in promoting equal opportunities and diversity among African Americans, people of color and women.” In the words of Los Angeles Urban League President John W. Mack, “Steve has placed minorities in significant and positive roles on camera and key decision-making positions off camera. His example is one that the Urban League urges his peers to emulate.”
MEANWHILE, BACK AT THE RANCH
Pamela Anderson wears one, so does Cher. Mel Gibson has one and so does Arnold Schwarzenegger. What do these top stars share? They’re all sporting Bony Pony caps.
So, just what is a Bony Pony? It’s the name behind a Malibu ranch that plays host to a group called Premier Achievers. The organization is the brainchild of noted plastic surgeon Frank Ryan. The local doc and his high-profile celebrity pals have donated countless hours working to help ex-gang members turn their lives around.
For the past seven years, Ryan has been reaching out to young people, offering free services like the removal of gang tattoos. His Premiere Achievers program gives kids at a special youth home an incentive to excel in their studies and improve their lives. The kids are rewarded for their scholastic achievement and hard work with highly coveted perks like access to major movie premieres and a chance to meet their favorite stars.
A-list achievers are also treated to a day at the ranch with activities like horseback riding, hiking and surfing, which many experience for the first time. Says Ryan; “It’s a way for movie studios and stars to give something back to the community. It’s a win-win situation which has been tremendously rewarding.” More information on Bony Pony and the Premiere Achievers program can be obtained by calling 310.275.1075.