A ‘Beautiful People Award’ to Mardi and Sarah Rustam for being community champions with their Tolucan newspaper.

I want to talk about, because I’ve been thinking about, the meaning of the years I’ve spent with The Tolucan Times. And I want to publicly thank Mardi Rustam and his wife, the darling and special Sarah, for their years of dedication to the paper and to the community.
As publisher and editor in chief of The Tolucan Times, Mardi has kept this historical local paper on its unique track, spotlighting the people and the happenings of Toluca Lake and our close knit neighboring communities. And I know that the readers appreciate their paper, and realize not all areas of our vast city are lucky enough to have such a publication. The Tolucan Times has totally contributed to the sense of “small town,” personal pride, and comfort for those who live or visit.
In these shaky financial days, I’m sure that it’s a struggle to keep the paper afloat. It’s hard for the advertisers to afford advertising. And thanks to those that do, as it would be a too sad thing for this precious landmark of a paper to float away.
Although my life has gone through many changes, my connection with this paper has remained constant. It’s just a communicative fiber of my being. And since it’s a chatty relationship, members of the community (and way beyond) often speak to me as a friend, and comment on the this and that that touched them in some way. How great a thing is that?!
In the best of ways, I’m a hoarder. Let’s say a magpie, it sounds less gross. I have about all the Tolucan columns I’ve contributed for the last thirty-something years, and now, I realize it’s like a journal. As I carefully look back through these crusty, now historic, documents, it tickles my tangled memories and brings back significant life experiences. My kids were in grade school, and there’s a picture and a story of all the neighborhood kids involved with a community action and meeting with a then popular local politician (who was later disgraced).
It brings me back to how much has changed, but again, the constant is The Tolucan Times. As a columnist, I’m allowed to write what I think and feel. It’s my opinion, and that is respected. The same is true with the other writers, who write their opinions. (Sometimes I’m at freaking odds with those who write their opinions as facts, but they have their say as I do mine. Fair.) There are a lot of different styles and varied generations that reflect the make-up of our hood. All which make for diverse and interesting reading.
It’s hard to choose what are the most favorite times that have been refreshed as I ogle through my stashes. The many Beautiful People Awards, a genuine and spirited community happening, created by Tolucan writer Dick Bellamy held at the Smoke House (Am I wrong? Did we have another rustic restaurant? Help.) Little plaques saying “A real good guy.” (I handed out one of these to a teenaged Ron Howard). Joe and Jill Campanella were awarded the “Great Couple,” and more sweet silliness like that.
The Actors and Others Celebrity Fairs were always supported by the Tolucan with picture pages of the stars that came and met with the folks at the then Columbia Ranch. The Falcon Theatre’s groundbreaking was big, and look at it today. And hot coverage of the meetings with the Toluca Lake Democrats in the back booth of Bob’s Big Boy. It was a jest of course; I’d been the token Dem for years and thought it would be fun to find a few more. We were not rowdy, but high-spirited with our little flags and signs. Well, decades pass…
So, unexpectedly, I’ve chronicled my adult life, I’ve (almost) grown up, and so has the paper. It’s now The Tolucan Times, and is the reflection of our era and our area. May it continue with the support of those who love and need it. I know I do… We’ll talk.

Richard Jordon and Billy Barnes celebrating their wedding.

I want to talk about who I’ve been missing, and what I would have missed. David, my sweet spouse, has been wintering in England solo (you will read about some of the lovely places and super restaurants he was enchanted by in an upcoming Lawrence and Lawrence column in The Tolucan Times). And why didn’t I join him? Because it was freezing! It’s puzzling to many of our pals why he braves the chill, but David has a passion for the bluster and the raging ocean at Milford on Sea. He did mention it was so cold that his face hurt. Case closed. I love that he returned home to 80-degree weather with a happy face.
My face is happy that I was here for some wonderful events, most especially an intimate wedding of two of my dearest friends, Billy Barnes and Richard Jordon who have been partners for over 27 years…

Billy Barnes and Richard Jordon
In a serene room of the home of Marilynn Lovell Matz, a small gathering celebrated the wedding of Billy Barnes (composer and lyricist of the famed B.B. Revue) and Richard Jordon (Disney publicist and author of the “Polly Pepper” mystery series). Marilynn herself performed the ceremony (another manifestation of her many glorious and generous talents). Witnessed by Steven Smith, the best man, and myself, Matron of Honor and photographer, it was as sweet an experience as one could hope for. The kindness and devotion that Billy and Richard have shared over the years were honored by the words offered by Minister Marilynn. At the start, we all held hands and took some deep breaths in unison, clearing our minds of all things and focusing our thoughts and hearts on the delighted couple. There could not have been a more charmed moment. Candles were lit, rings exchanged, and champagne and sparking cider poured. Afterwards, we enjoyed happy thoughts, warm memories, and a dandy dinner delivered by Studio City’s Spark. It’s sad this could not be a “legal” wedding. This embarrassing inequity needs to be set right.
So, I am pleased that I was present to attend this wedding and a host of other special occasions during January and half of February. It was thrilling to attend the Academy of Television Arts & Science’s Hall of Fame 2010. The honorees were Candice Bergen, Charles Lisanby, Don Pardo, Gene Roddenberry, Dick and Tom Smothers, and Bob Stewart. I sat with the elegant and esteemed Tom Sarnoff, and we spoke of his years of work for the Academy’s Foundation. The event was filled with great stars on and behind the scenes. Announcer Don Pardo fills both scenes as we’ve had several good peeks at this amazing announcer. At age 91, Don still is the voice of “Saturday Night Live.” Hostess of the Academy’s evening, the calmly funny Amy Poehler got to introduce Lorne Michaels who, in turn, introduced Don Pardo (think “Cesar’s Hour,” “The Price is Right,” and “Jeopardy!” 66 years of announcing for NBC.). Rob Reiner thanked the Smothers brothers for his career as a writer. Those boys haven’t lost their loopy luster, yo-yos and all. Candace Bergen was lovingly introduced by the great Diane English. Seth MacFarlane (a literate rascal and handsome devil) gave a great tribute to Gene Roddeberry, and Gene’s son accepted the award. The award-winning art director and production designer, Charles Lisanby, has added dazzle and distinction to television for decades. And I may be partial, as he is a good friend to animals. Last but not least is the infamous Bob Stewart. A true game show impresario, Bob created a zillion shows, among them “The Price is Right,” “To Tell the Truth,” “Jackpot!” and “The $10,000 Pyramid.” JoAnne Worley, guest on many of Bob Stewart’s shows, was his guest at the Hall of Fame. And Betty White gave him a glowing introduction; after all, he introduced her to Allen Ludden…
And I was here for my stepson Adam’s 50th birthday party. It was at downtown’s Lucky Strike Bowling. Endless bar food and four lanes draped for a private event. Friends, old and young, three guide dogs with their people whom, with a little direction, were bowling and having a superb and silly time. I’d carry on more, but I’ve run out of words… We’ll talk!

‘Love and constitutional liberty to all who deserve it… which is all.’

Leo Grillo and Lazarus.

I want to talk about a young man named Leo, an actor and a Tolucan Times fan, whose life work affects animals worldwide. Through legal means, or other creative ways, Leo finds a need and develops amazing solutions… For instance, early this February Leo Grillo’s organization, D.E.L.T.A. Rescue, will be taking more than 130,000 signatures to Capitol Hill in an accelerated effort to get H.R. 3501 passed during the 111th Congress. Representative Thaddeus McCotter (R-MI.) has proposed a simple, concise bill known as The Humanity and Pets Partnered through the Years Act, or the “HAPPY” Act. It proposes a $3500 annual tax deduction for qualified pet expenses from ones.

Tax Returns
This groundbreaking initiative was created by our friend Leo. How many pets might get adopted and how many pet owners might afford the proper care for their deserving pets? On-going petition sites for this “HAPPY Act” are sponsored by D.E.L.T.A. Rescue, Care2 and the American Society for the Prevention and Cruelty to Animals, if you want to sign on. H.R. 3501 is also supported by the Humane Society of the United States. Nothing like unity to get things done!

The Tolucan Connection
Thirty years ago, Leo had a cover story in the Toucan about animal rescue. Donations were channeled via his revered acting coach Charles Conrad, and now, Leo Grillo is president of D.E.L.T.A. Rescue, the largest no-kill, care-for-life animal sanctuary of its type in the world. He actually drives around the desert searching for dogs that mindless cruel people just drop off to get rid of. By the time he finds them, most are unfit for adoption but they will have love and care for life thanks to Leo.
Leo has open arms for other organizations, like Actors and Others for Animals. He has been very supportive of our tasks and knows how necessary our effort towards spay and neutering decreases the population of unwanted pets. Less innocent creatures to be tossed away like debris. JoAnne Worley, President of Actors and Other says, “We, in the humane treatment of animals community, are so very fortunate to have Leo Grillo and his family on our side of the fence. He is the best of the best. What a great guy.” And Susan Taylor, Executive Director of Actors and Others agrees, “Leo is an old and dear friend of Actors and Others for Animals, who shares our passion to ensure the daily care and protection of our animal companions. He is always there to support our Celebration of Caring fundraising events, and to help us raise money to assist pet guardians provide veterinary care, especially in these challenging times. In fact, he co-sponsored H.R. 3501, a federal bill that recognizes the importance of the animal-human bond by allowing a $3,500 yearly tax deduction for qualifying care expenses. Now that’s a stimulus package I think all animal lovers would love to see enacted!”
Enacting is what Leo Grillo does, besides proposing legislation and rescuing animals, Leo makes things happen as an actor, writer, director and producer. His new film “Magic” is just completed. (Hint: angel-dog.) Leo gets his message out any way he can. If you want to know more about him, give him a Google; there are a load of sites for his many ventures, and learn more about D.E.L.T.A. Rescue (Dedication and Everlasting Love to Animals).
Leo Grillo also founded Horse Rescue of America, and, he created “Animals on the Edge,” a global project that allows animals from other nations to benefit from his programs. Leo also co-conceived, with wildlife photographer and author Chris Weston, a book by the same name that identifies those animals currently living on the frontline of extinction. And, so much more, like his affordable dog housing set-ups and the first animal shelter built with straw. He is a man of the world and the word about Leo first came out in the Tolucan… We’ll talk (arf)…

Archie

Archie, the cat with the wonderful white whiskers, is waiting for a new home.

Here’s a little information on Archie, “the cat next door,” who needs a new home. Archie represents the thousands of “cats next door,” or everywhere, that are in need of a person to love and care for them. Our Archie is an older guy and would need a very special cat lover to see him through the end of his sweet days. He has black fur tinged with a dashing white stripe down his placid kitty face. And his whiskers are aglow; white and superbly scraggly.
The real Archie is the cat who has lived, for many years, next door to some very kind folks in Valley Village. He is a loveable cat who likes to be both indoors and outdoors. He enjoys sitting outside on his front patio looking outside, and he loves to walk around his neighborhood and visit nearby neighbor’s homes to see what might be interesting. Archie is approximately 14-years-old. His owners are no longer able to care for him and they would like to see him go to a good home that provides the following: “food and water twice a day (moist once a day and dry twice a day), loving owner(s), a house so he can go inside and outside and enjoy his yard, and to not have his nails clipped.” It’s obvious that his longtime owners really care about him but just are not able to care for him. Sad.
Can anyone help Archie by providing a new, loving home? He is super sweet. He often comes when called, and he loves to be pet, which keeps him purring regularly. I hope you can help by calling Paulette or Pat Dixon at (818) 761-2645. They are temporarily fostering dear Archie until a new home is found.
Archie and most homeless animals are victims of the times and of pet overpopulation. That’s why Actors and Others for Animals stress spay and neutering. Spay and neuter, spay and neuter… And, if you have any “give” left over, the animals will be grateful.

Tippi

Speaking of cats, Tippi Hedren, the angel of large and wild cats, celebrated her 80th birthday at The Magic Castle with a photo exhibit featuring the work of her personal photographer, Bill Dow, who has chronicled more than 25 years of her work with exotic felines at the Shambala preserve. All proceeds from the sale of these images went to the Roar Foundation in support of the preserve. Tippi is pretty well preserved herself, as lovely as she is good, which is saying a lot!

The International Fund for Animal Welfare:

IFAW is ready to send in teams to care for the animals in Haiti when it’s possible, appropriate and when the people are properly attended to. At this writing, it’s hard to imagine that this will ever happen. Disasters of this proportion are just impossible to wrap one’s head around. But our hearts and spirit of generosity understand. Our humaneness understands. We’ll take action and we’ll talk.

Born to Act Players

A cozy spot -- In the lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel in Seattle to visit with Valorie and LaVerne (nee Caracuzzi) who grew up in Toluca Lake.

Cissie Wellman kept her promise to let me know when her passion, the Born to Act Players, are doing their next production. So… Ta da! The BTAP are proudly presenting “Moment 2 Moment.” A show with improv, music, poetry and a heavenly cast (including Cissie). It’s such a joy to see special needs children and young adults have this golden opportunity to show their special talents. Do the new word of the decade: Google the Born to Act Players. See how you can participate. Learn and love.

A Perfect Weekend

A view from our room in the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle. Rain or shine, people enjoyed the pools.

Speaking of Born to Act, David’s sister Lynn is a great actress. She recently had a great success in “Golda,” the one-woman tour de force on the life of Golda Meir. And, playing the perfect sister, Lynn and her perfect husband Gene drove us to Seattle after celebrating their ‘Golden’ wedding anniversary. At their perfect party we met very special acting friends of Lynn’s (who has never stopped acting since LACC), wonderful singers sang, and artful and witty friends entertained us with their fun and touching sentiment. The party was given to her by her best friend Carolyn, who also happened to be her maid of honor 50 ‘golden’ years ago.
My husband had never seen Seattle. What a happy discovery for him!
We stayed at the new Four Seasons. It was, for sure, superb. A real treat for me; an opportunity to reunite with two young friends (of my kiddies) that used to hang (or live) in my Toluca Lake house for years. Valorie and LaVerne Caracuzzi (their maiden names). I’m sure that many Tolucan folks knew these darling mischief-makers. Val and LaVerne are married now and each have two children. They are lovely and good adults and, now, great friends of mine. Val is a successful hairdresser in Seattle and Laverne is a first-rate make-up artist in Hollywood, currently working on “The Office.” We had some delicious, small plates (via ART’s Restaurant in the hotel, not Studio City’s), and some delicious conversation. I dearly love them.
In our short time there, we saw the Seattle Art Museum which was right across the street! It was under a five-minute walk to Pikes Place where they are still tossing fishes around.
We walked and gawked at the delightful shops. One cheese store had a window the length of their wall where we watched a giant cheese doing its thing! Speaking of cheese, there is a sweet little French bistro where I had the most fabulous Croque Monsieur, an open face masterpiece that rivals Paris by far. The spectacular view of Puget Sound and the island beyond, much less the clear air and the beautiful people reminds me… We have to return, there is so much more to see and eat.

Hotel Murano—Nights in a Museum

The sheer beauty of Hotel Murano’s elegant Piano Player’s Dress glass art.

Like Ben Stiller’s movie (almost), we spent two amazing nights in a museum. Who knew, in Tacoma, Washington, of the world-class abundance of art in the award-winning Murano Hotel (ranked #6 of the Top 100 U.S. Hotels by Condé Nast Traveler)?
How striking to be actually living within the magnificent collection of glass art. It starts at the Murano’s sparkling entrance and continues into the huge lobby with great glass Viking ships hanging from the ceiling, a fragile female piano player’s dress stands near the front desk. We elevated to the 17th floor where the doors opened to a wide display of glass art by U.S. designer Toots Zynsky. Each floor exhibits the work of a different glass artist from all over the world. Such color and forms… I wanted to press every floor on the elevator! Our own accommodations greeted us with the soft, red glow from hand-blown glass lamps illuminating a sleek, contemporary space with everything one could wish for a restful stay. This is a must-visit to inhale the wonder. Their Web site has gorgeous pictures beyond description (Google ‘Hotel Murano’). Gordon Sondland, president of the five artful Provenance Hotels, says, “Provenance is a fitting word to describe our focus on high-design, unique service offerings and story around the arts.” I promise you, his vision has more than manifested!
We were treated to a grand tour of the area with my siblings-in-law, viewing the woods, streams and lake territory and their lovely home in the sweet city of Steilacoom. Then, back for dinner at the Murano’s mind-bending eatery on the fourth floor…

Bite Restaurant
Overlooking four floors of breathtaking art below, the menu had a lot to live up to. I tell you true, when I exited the elevator and headed toward Bite, my jaw was yawing and the vast space was so dimensional and totally beautiful (as was the meal). We sampled an array of dishes from the extensive and tempting menu, from limoncello-cured salmon to lobster corn dogs to Kobe sliders and truffle mac and cheese—all out of the ordinary, all delicious. The naughty dessert list included homemade milkshakes (!) and warm Krispy Kreme donut bread pudding à la mode with espresso chocolate sauce. Help!
Outside, the night was crisp and cold, perfect for the fast approaching Christmas. Inside, the hotel glowed and shined with merry lights on the glass art. The brilliant display of artwork in the lobby bar offers no shortage of conversation-starters. The full sized, realistically-sculpted wooden horse with a lampshade on its head kept me talking. Even the drinks are beautiful, and the atmosphere as cozy as a winter lodge. We bid good night to Lynn and Gene and looked forward to their upcoming ‘Golden’ night… (This was perfect—full of friends and family and tons of love and laughter.)
Next day, we did return to Bite for an artfully-served, merciless breakfast. I wasn’t forced to order the Belgian waffle with bacon woven inside but yum is yum—time to surrender. Fortified, we walked to

Tacoma’s Museum of Glass

One of three glass Viking ships hanging high in the lobby of Tacoma’s Hotel Murano.

Children from local dance classes performed to refrains of The Nutcracker Suite. We wandered through the collections, ending at our favorite: Kid’s Art, a unique concept allowing children to sketch creatures from their imagination. Each month one is selected and actually transformed into a glass figure by the museum’s artisans in their theatre/hot shop. The results were sometimes hilarious, sometimes fantastic and always mind-blowing glass blowing. (Example: a favorite is called “Coyote with Rainbow Socks.”) See their hot Web site and pick your own… We’ll talk…

Paradise found: David and JJ lunching at Pacific’O in Lahaina, Maui.

I want to talk about happy and hectic times leading up to Christmas; the good celebrations, reunions, entertainment and the hair-raising shopping.
Just to make things frenzied-er, we needed to fly to Washington state for five days (returning Dec. 23!) to celebrate David’s sister’s 50th wedding anniversary. So, ‘“calma, calma,’“ as we continentally calm ourselves, and prepare for a carefree and loving holiday.
And, just a few grateful comments for the good and heartening times this season has brought. The neighborhood Open Houses were cheery and welcoming. The fundraiser for Marilynn Lovell Matz was glorious and defined the meaning of heart. We sat with Bob Mackie (a long history there) and quelled with joy at the amazing performers, including the courageous and confounding wonderful Marilynn herself. A little luncheon at the Smoke House, hosted by my Manager Debralynn of Discover Mgt., gave garlic toast and treasured moments with darling Beverly Long and dear Jack Grinnage (friends since I was 17!). And our neighbor’s party, a yearly event at Dorene and John Martin’s home, was stashed with friends, of which they have many. They tried to cut down their list from past years but 100 more than they expected not to attend, did. Surprise! So, lots of good cheer with piano and singing, eating and eating. Had a sweet time catching up with my (almost brother) Earl Holliman and learned to know a lot of neighbors better and better.
I’m privileged to be on the SAG Awards Nominating Committee, so I had the responsibility to see mucho movies. Some screenings offered Q&As with directors and stars. At the ‘“Nine’“ special screening, we were flabbergasted that director Rob Marshall brought along Fergie, Penelope Cruz and Nicole Kidman, who were good enough to accompany him after the premiere that night. Very Ga Ga.
When I need peace during this holiday count down, I shut my eyes and spiritually return to Pacific’O, where all senses satisfy. I visualize the sand and the sea, and inhale the aroma of my pesto sauce wheat noodles topped with a mesmerizing Mahi…
Pacific’O, ‘“It’s All About Passion’“

If you are heading to Maui for the holidays (I’m jealous and we’ve barely returned), I strongly suggest you drive to Lahaina town for a memorable meal at one of the best dining spots anywhere! Pacific’O is one of (multi-award winning) Chef James McDonald’s brilliant local restaurants.
‘“Come in and share my passion for wine and food,’“ says co-owner, congenial Stephan Bel-Robert. Originally from Marseilles and now a part of Maui, Stephan told us about their famous O’o Farm in Kula, source of most of the restaurant’s salad greens, herbs and many vegetables. Freshness is the keyword here; the fish comes right from the ocean (right in front of us) and directly to the kitchen. Taste tells! We had different Mahi Mahi dishes. Mine was blackened and succulent, served over wheat pasta loaded with pesto. A great dish! David’s, crusted with sesame seeds and served with perfect rice, was his best ever. Before the main Mahi’s, our lovely young server Sarah suggested we tried a new starter of sashimi pizza (really a perfectly toasted tortilla). The fish was topped with tiny straws of beets (cooked only by ice water)—it’s worth a trip back. We also valued the purity of the all-organic O’o Farm’s salad with fresh greens, heirloom tomatoes and vegetables in season, tossed with extra virgin olive oil, citrus juice and Hawaiian sea salt. Sara surprised us with a sampling of their desserts. From creamy ice creams to fudge cake and baby blintzes beautifully garnished (how did they get two little yellow fish pix in the red sauce? (Google and ogle.) We now add our own Passion!
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and respect for all. We’ll talk…

The Remembering Site
Give the greatest gift: the ability to easily write and preserve life memories. Not everyone is able to leave money, jewelry or property as an inheritance. Everyone, though, can leave the most precious commodity of all: family treasures made of words and cherished photos. This site is for you and your loved ones to write your life memories, experiences, memoirs or autobiography. Evocative, story-telling questions span a lifetime that leads you to easily complete your life story. What were some of your favorite holidays and traditions? Did you eat lunch at school, or did you go home for lunch? Do you remember your first kiss? Describe your career. What was the happiest moment of your life? The saddest? What memories from your family history do you want to share with your grandchildren? It is so important to encourage our parents and grandparents to write their life memories. These memories can be e-mailed to friends and family, printed from a home printer, archived by The Remembering Site for future generation to read, and/or, best of all, have a beautifully bound book printed to give to loved ones. There’s no greater gift than giving a child or grandchild answers to the questions that they just never think to ask the previous generations—the gift of remembering. Everyone is interesting, whether they know it or not. I’m often poked by my family, friends and strangers to write a book but I’m blocked wondering where to start. Now, I have this imaginative guide and I have started… now, where to stop? Google The Remembering Site and read how it started and some of the fascinating autobiography’s. Hope to read about some of your memories soon.

My Sweet Street
And remember The Kling Street Kids 8th Annual 2009 my Sweet Street event. The Beanie Babies are back, incredible silent auction items and lots more. Due to the growing group of kid volunteers from streets all over the area, The Kling Street Kids are adapting their name this year to become “My Sweet Street—The Kling Street Kids” since the organization has grown way beyond Kling Street. So, see you on Kling Street in Toluca Lake, between Cahuenga and Ledge on Dec. 23 (8am–2pm) and Dec. 24 (8am-12pm).
With fond memories… we’ll talk.

Marilynn Lovell Matz and her much-loved and much-missed husband, Peter.

I want to talk about giving and also give a heads up for the star-studded December 11th Marilynn Lovell Matz event. It’s called “A Night of Love.” And, speaking of love, I want to talk more about our trip to the Westin Maui. Give yourself a heavenly vacation. More tips for Maui travelers in the next few columns but this week, I’m feeling a lot of “Aloha.”

“A Night of Love” For Lovell
This is an exquisite opportunity for those who know someone who is living, or who is not, that has been helped by Marilynn Lovell Matz’s glorious and generous fundraising to help care for people with AIDS. For decades, the revered Marilynn and her most special husband Peter did their concerts in theatres or in living rooms. Any venue to make funds for AIDS patients.
Now, it’s Marilynn’s turn for a lift. Great musical stars are celebrating Marilynn’s goodness and allowing us to show our appreciation for her endless giving.

How Many Whammies?
Double whammies, quadruple whammies? Marilynn not only sings her refined and fiery “I’m Only a Cockeyed Optimist,” she is one. She has Multiple Sclerosis but has kept it secondary to her being. Now, time and inconvenient injuries require constant professional attention. Hence, show business steps up.
Here’s my pitch! Friday, December 11 at 7:30 pm at the UCLA Freud Playhouse. A tribute evening of great music and comedy for our dear friend Marilynn Lovell Matz starring (in alphabetical order): David Burnham, Tim Conway, Norm Crosby, Jason Graae, Sam Harris, Jack Jones, Michele Lee, Peter Marshall, Karen Morrow, Valarie Pettiford; and hosted by Bruce Vilanch. Tickets are tax deductible and can be purchased online at nightoflove.tix.com, or call (800) 595-4849. We’ll share this great evening of giving.

We’ll talk…

A Benefit for Marilynn Lovell Matz
Save The Date: December 11th! A benefit for Marilynn will be presented on Friday, December 11 at 7pm at The Freud Playhouse at UCLA. I talked with Howard Storm, Marilynn’s former husband and devoted pal, and he told me about the show that was being put together to help her through this impossible time. Friends and bright, generous stars Jason Alexander, Tim Conway, Sam Harris, Michelle Lee, Peter Marshall, Jack Sheldon and Bruce Villanch (alphabetical order) are booked, just for starters. Friends and stars urging us to attend are Carol Burnett, Joel Grey, Bette Midler, Doris Roberts and Lily Tomlin.
Marilynn and her husband Peter Matz had written and performed a series of benefit concerts around the country which have raised hundreds of thou-sands of dollars to provide home health care for people with AIDS. For years, from theatrical venues to private living rooms, Marilynn and Peter gave endless time and exquisite entertainment.
In 2002, Peter, the world-renowned musical director, ar-ranger and composer, died. His memorial was a supreme toast to the musician and the man. And the finale was his glorious wife Marilynn singing Peter’s arrange-ment of “A Cockeyed Optimist.” It was an anthem of hope and paying attention. Unforgettable.
Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get but we make a life by what we give.” An ardent supporter of causes in which she believes, Marilynn Lovell Matz has sung concerts for UNICEF and regularly performed benefit concerts for AIDS Project Los Angeles (including the S.T.A.G.E galas) and Shanti Foun-dation. She has been a spokes-person for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and is the recipient of their Champion of the Arts Award (New York) and their Hope for MS Award (L.A.). While all this was going on, Marilynn was a psychology major at UCLA and maintained a career as a psychotherapist.
Revered by cabaret connois-seurs, Marilynn regularly appear-ed at The Cinegrill and Jazz Bakery in L.A., and The Russian Tea Room (with composer Alan Bergman) and The Blue Angel in New York. She has elicited raves from audiences and critics alike in concert at The Herbst Theatre in San Francisco, The Freud Play-house, UCLA and a Salute to Yip Harburg at The Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles. Marilynn also served as a Master Teacher at the Cabaret Symposium of the Eugene O’Neill Theater Center (Waterford, Connecticut). Plus, traveling with Mary Martin, playing the endear-ing Mrs. Malloy in “Hello Dolly,” more years of theatre on Broad-way, London, summer stock, plus films and TV. Give her a Google and learn all about this superb human being and find out how to obtain her and Peter’s “Say It with Music” album. There is a gold mine out there.
The Golden Rule has its roots in a wide range of philosophies of ancient Jerusalem, India, Greece and China. It’s most common English phrasing is attributed to Jesus of Nazareth in the book of Luke: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
And, not to use clichés, “give and you shall receive” is a very enveloping influence in many lives. It’s now time for Marilyn Lovell Matz to receive. We’ll talk.