At the ABCs event, from l, Gloria Gebbia, Amber Valletta, Dolores Robinson, Holly Robinson Peete, and Mike Epps.

“I love my mother’s spirit,” beamed Holly Robinson Peete, actress, author, and HollyRod Foundation philanthropist, about her mom, the influential showbiz dealmaker-manager Dolores Robinson, as both accepted the Mother and Daughter of the Year Award from the Associates for Breast and Prostate Cancer Studies. Making the presentation for the organization, affectionately known as the ABCs, was son of the “Duke,” Patrick Wayne, chairman of the John Wayne Cancer Institute.

Dolores’ tenacious spirit has made her a breast cancer survivor, and she shared her story with a room full of women who absolutely understood the health crisis she went through. “I stand here as a survivor because I felt something was wrong after a regular self-examination, and I followed through.” Dolores, 77, also admitted that after her ordeal a few years ago, she felt the urge to do something wild and got her grandkids together to design a tattoo for her. Holly refers to it as her “gramp-stamp.”

Actress-model Amber Valletta (Revenge) was honored with the Woman of Achievement Award. And actor-comic Mike Epps (Hangover 3) was the recipient of the Man of Achievement at the Four Seasons Hotel luncheon last week. All had high praise for actress-comedienne Lisa Ann Walter who once again emceed the event with her “one-of-the-gals” style. “It’s better to be a dog’s mom, because dogs chew up your slippers, not your youth,” she joked. A Valley mother of four, Lisa Ann was hilarious about the difference between having your first kid and your last kid. “When you’re pregnant with your first you practice your breathing for natural childbirth. For your fourth kid you ask for an epidural during your eight month.” All kidding aside, the ABCs is a cause that is close to Lisa Ann’s heart “with a mom who is a 35-year breast cancer survivor,” she told me.

“Each of our honorees is an extraordinary role model and dedicated humanitarian in our community. The impact of their contribution is immeasurable,” said Gloria Gebbia, president of the ABCs, who thanked Beverly Cohen and Sheri Rosenblum who co-chaired the event.

Among those on hand to support the ABCs was stunning Nicole Murphy, mother of five, who I also saw at the fifth annual “On the Go Mother’s Day Beauty Event,” which had celebrities gathering at the Thompson Hotel in Beverly Hills. Beauty experts from Joico haircare, Olay Regenerist, Bellacures, Ziba Beauty, and Owl’s Brew set up their pampering stations poolside. Ahhh, it was a gorgeous day to get gorgeous!

Mother of the Year Award

More wonderful women enjoyed the special 84th annual Mother’s Day luncheon and fashion show benefiting Cedars-Sinai’s The Helping Hand of Los Angeles group. Lea Porter and Tori Spelling followed in the footsteps of past honorees such as Doris Day, Lucille Ball, Betty Ford, Dolores Hope, and Shirley Jones, with both receiving the Mother of the Year Award. An elegant fashion show presenting the Kevan Hall Collection capped off the afternoon at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Teacher Appreciation

Toluca Lake Elementary got a big surprise during Teacher Appreciation Week. Last week the Helpful Honda Guys in Blue (from the commercials) popped into Toluca Lake Elementary to surprise veteran fifth grade teacher (for 24 years) Dennis Hagen-Smith during the school’s annual Volunteer Awards Assembly.

After Mr. Hagen-Smith escorted his students into the auditorium Principal Bove introduced a surprise visit from the SoCal Honda Dealers and the Helpful Guys in Blue. They came to recognize Mr. Hagen-Smith for his efforts as an educator and presented him with a wishlist of classroom supplies. Celebrating great teachers is one way the Helpful Guys in Blue are giving back to communities across SoCal as part of their Helpful Campaign. Kudos to them and Mr. Hagen-Smith who has introduced a number of impactful outreach programs, including establishing the school-wide “Star Party” for students, parents, and scientists from Rocketdyne to make learning about astronomy fun and interactive. He helped his school become recognized as a NASA Explorer School. And, stop the presses! He also created the student-run newspaper “Toluca Lake Times.”

Dyan Cannon.

How can we talk about mothers without discussing the love and heartache (and maybe a little guilt) that goes along with the maternal saints who gave us life.

Every mother has a story to tell, but Julie Mannix von Zerneck’s story is worthy of a Dickensian novel. I’ve known Julie for a couple of decades since I would visit her Toluca Lake shop Portrait of a Bookstore. The literary cornucopia is gone now, but Julie has her own book that can take its place among the great works she used to offer.

Secret Storms: A Mother and Daughter, Lost then Found is a non-fiction book by Julie Mannix von Zerneck and her daughter Kathy Hatfield. It is the story of how the mother and daughter were separated, became accomplished women with wonderful families, and how they were reunited in the most miraculous way.

Julie told me how heart wrenching it was to give up her baby, and always yearned to know what happened to her child. She never lost hope and the unbelievable journey of mother and daughter is a tapestry of sweet, surprising, and often humorous moments in their lives. Julie said she was a Philadelphian debutante, and then an unmarried teenager who was confined to a mental hospital during her pregnancy. She was forced to give her baby up for adoption. She had a career as an actress on Broadway and in soap operas, and eventually married the father, Frank von Zerneck, a TV producer and great guy. The couple raised two more children — and then their lost child was unexpectedly found. Kathy had a good life, but was faced with a mind-blowing discovery, followed by a search for her mother. The fascinating tale is told by both women.

“I simply love this book, which is a heartbreaking but ultimately life-affirming story that defies fiction. Every plot twist, every emotion touches a chord, even for those of us who have not had to endure such a brutal separation. Read it and weep, and then finally rejoice,” stated Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey, who certainly knows something about great literature, since she is the best-selling author of A Woman of Independent Means.

Elizabeth recently hosted a celebration at her Studio City home to toast her good friend Julie for the publication of the book she called, “An ode to the enduring power of family ties.” It is truly a testament to a mother’s love, strong women, and hope.

Now for another book about love: Dear Cary: My Life with Cary Grant by Dyan Cannon, who talked about it when we caught up with her at KCET Cinema Series’ screening of The Last of Sheila. “One thing we always agreed on, our baby was the most beautiful baby in the world,” Dyan said about Cary Grant’s only child, Jennifer Grant. Her goal in writing the book was to convey an honest look at the Hollywood legend, so her actress-daughter could get to know him better. Dyan is currently working on a screenplay based on her bestseller, with plans of producing and directing it as a feature film. She reported, “I have someone in mind to play me, but it’s too early to announce anything yet.”

Cannon’s daughter released her own memoir called Good Stuff: A Reminiscence of My Father, Cary Grant. Jennifer Grant dedicated it to her mother. The multi-talented Dyan proudly told me, “My daughter is my greatest personal accomplishment.”

The Today Show producers Alicia Ybarbo and Mary Ann Zoellner, plus Conan TV writer Laurie Kilmartin, and journalist Karen Moline joined forces to write the tongue-in-cheek advice book for the modern day mom. It’s called Sh***y Mom: The Parenting Guide for the Rest of Us. The self-described “shoddy” moms Alicia and Mary Ann talked to me while they were having a makeover day at Lea Journo Salon at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, “because all moms deserve a time out.” Be warned, readers will find rough language, as the moms are brutally honest about their feelings, blasting everything from crying babies on planes, sick kids, and ex-hubbies. So if the potty-mouth dialog doesn’t ruffle your feathers, there are hilarious observations. The shoddy moms’ cookbook author friend Jessica Seinfeld reported she “loved it,” and added it’s “the most inappropriate parenting book I’ve ever read.” Consider it a guilty pleasure.

Happy Mother’s Day.

“Genre-loving fans will enjoy it because there’s a plethora of films from around the world that will appeal to a wide audience,” Cushing reports. He, Thomas, and the festival board members (including industry notables Anna Wycoff, Greg Beaton, and Basem Wasef) have been impressed by the entries. “I am awestruck by these young filmmakers and how they are advancing the artistry by being technically savvy with their storytelling,” Thomas says.

What’s most important to Cushing and Thomas is that the festival is very intimate and run by filmmakers. They spend time with the writers and directors and exchange ideas and critiques, plus they have a distribution seminar scheduled. They even have a screenplay competition and recognize great un-produced scripts and giving them exposure to producers and directors.

Last year, producers, actors, writers, and directors from many countries joined the weeklong celebration. This year celebrated director Russell Mulchay (his films include Highlander, Resident Evil: Extinction, The Shadow) will be honored with the Achievement Award for Fear and Fantasy.

The schedule of films includes features: The Ufologist, Mister White, The Fellows Hip, Space Milkshake, Found, An American Terror, and Play Dead. Great fantasy and horror shorts are also on the schedule each day.

The festival is centrally located in the historic downtown Burbank area, at Theatre Banshee at 3435 W. Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank. For tickets and the schedule of films and screening times go to fearandfantasy.com.

“American Idol” hopeful Angie Miller.

Awesome singers have made it into the finals to become the next American Idol. And it’s the girls who have dominated this season. They can really sing! All the top finalists for Fox TV’s American Idol Season 12 are incredible in a variety of music genres, with country, rock, soul, R&B, and just the sweetest vintage tunes taking center stage. Last week we heard the classics “Cry Me a River,” “MacArthur Park,” and “A Whiter Shade of Pale” introduced to a new generation. It doesn’t seem like there’s a sour note among the remaining four powerhouse-female finalists: Angie Miller, Kree Harrison, Candice Glover, and Amber Holcomb. I was just sorry that country-cutie Janelle Arthur is gone, because it could have easily been a five-way tie for the American Idol title.

They impressed the judges, but it’s up to America to vote for their favorites to keep them in the competition. Fans had a surprise during last week’s voting results show with no one being eliminated, because the judges never used their “save,” so there was an extra week added for the finalists to perform. The competition will have its two-night season finale Wednesday, May 15, and Thursday, May 16, when the winner will be announced. It will be telecast live from the Nokia Theatre at L.A. Live downtown Los Angeles, with special performances that will turn the nights into a musical extravaganza, thanks to executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller’s flair for showmanship.

Of course, it’s not really over after the winner is crowned, because the top finalists will travel the country as part of the “American Idols Live 2012” concert tour this summer. In addition to Angie Miller, Kree Harrison, Candice Glover, Amber Holcomb, and Janelle Arthur, the rest of the top ten are Lazaro Arbos, Burnell Taylor, Devin Velez, Paul Jolley, and Curtis Finch Jr.

When all top ten were announced by the judges Randy Jackson, Mariah Carey, Nicki Minaj, and Keith Urban, Fox threw a party and had many of their network stars on hand to join in the festivities. Host Ryan Seacrest was there, but Minaj was a no-show.

Chatting with young hopeful Angie Miller, the 19-year-old songbird from Beverly, Massachusetts, told me, “This is a dream come true. I am so happy right at this moment, even though I know I have a lot of hard work ahead of me. I knew it would get harder each week of the competition. I just want to bring something new and get better each week. Music has inspired me in every way in my life, with the messages that are in songs. And I hope to do songs that have a great message to inspire other people.” Angie also noted, “For me, the best thing about being part of the American Idol experience is that I’m making amazing friends.” According to almost all the contestants, Kree Harrison, 22, from Nashville, Tennessee, is the friendliest and most helpful among them. Kree said she feels like they are all part of her family.

When I asked Candice Glover, 23, from St. Helena Island, South Carolina, to tell me the one word that describes the experience for her, she said, “Passion. You do it because you are passionate about singing.” Amber Holcomb, 18, from Houston, Texas, said the perfect word would be “artistic, because I’m learning how to be a real artist.”

A big treat for me was seeing the sensational artist and judge Mariah Carey at the party. She just launched her new fragrance Mariah Carey Dreams and reported, “The process of developing a fragrance is exhilarating and it takes me to another place within my creative self, which is why I enjoyed creating Mariah Carey Dreams. I humbly call myself a ‘perfumer in training’ because I love it so much, almost as much as I love making music. I have the utmost respect for the perfumers because they have the ability to combine a few simple scents into a classic and exciting fragrance.” So Mariah not only looked stunning at the American Idol party, but she smelled nice too.

Janie Steele & Pacific Electric.

Creating a musical afternoon delight, the popular band Janie Steele & Pacific Electric was playing Saturday from 2:30 to 5:30 at the Viva Fresh Cantina (located to the right of the Burbank Equestrian Center’s Riverside Drive entrance). It was a great place to relax and hear a variety of tunes, from their awesome classic country songs to surprises from the Beach Boys and Beatles songbooks.

Janie Steele & Pacific Electric band will be returning regularly to the Back Room stage at Viva Fresh Cantina on the second and fourth Saturdays, May 11 and 25 (call to confirm dates and times, 818-845-2425). The Cantina has a great fresh Mexican menu, the yummiest hamburgers, and fabulous Margaritas. With the atmosphere enhanced by the band, it’s an oasis for folks to spend an afternoon enjoying the food and fantastic music. Cody Bryant, Viva Fresh’s owner/manager, deserves credit for turning the Cantina into a happening place.

“It’s a joy to play here,” says Janie Steele. “Our passion is to make people happy with our music. When we sing and people smile, we know we’ve done something right.”

The good-time band makes people happy with their wide range of music. The petite dynamo lead singer, Janie Steele has a tear in her voice when covering Patsy Cline/Brenda Lee songs, but is ultra-sassy when kicking it with “These Boots Are Made for Walking,” and dueting with bandmate Jimmy Harris (bass/vocals). Plus Harris’ George Strait solos are superb. Shawn Nourse is on drums, and Mark Marino is lead guitar/singer, who did a couple of original tunes, including “I’ve got my dog/who needs you.”

A decade on the music circuit, they’ve played clubs, special events, festivals, etc. all over California and casinos in Nevada and Arizona. In addition to Viva Fresh Cantina, the group returns to the St. Charles Carnival on Sunday, April 28. To contact Janie Steele & Pacific Electric call (818) 209-3676, or go to JanieSteeleandPacificElectric.com.

Dorothy Hamill.

Many parties were held leading up to the MTV Movie Awards, but none showed as much heart as the GBK Celebrity Lounge. Jason Ritter (Parenthood) who lost his father, the funny and wonderful John Ritter, to heart disease ten years ago, made a special presentation to the GuardAHeart Foundation. With Aviir, the biotech firm that specializes in cardiac risk assessment, Jason co-presented a check for $100,000, to help the non-profit GuardAHeart continue their efforts to raise awareness about heart disease and aid in the prevention. Cardiac risk blood tests were offered to guests to promote the “save a life” campaign.

Who would have ever thought that a fun-filled Hollywood gift lounge would offer the greatest treasure of all, the gift of life? Kudos to GBK founder Gavin Keilly, who showcased the heart-saving foundation and other charitable organizations that had star appeal.

Jason Ritter.

Funnyman George Lopez was there to support his Lopez Foundation, and to talk about his passion for golf. Fortunately he gets to combine both with his upcoming George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic, May 6 at Lakeside Golf Club, just a nine-iron away from his Toluca Lake home. The golf tournament is George’s big fundraiser for his foundation. The charity’s mission is to create positive, permanent change for underprivileged children, adults, and military families confronting challenges in education and health. There’s also a big focus on kidney disease and organ donation. As many are aware, George has had a life-saving kidney transplant, and now he helps others.

The Hall of Fame boxer Sugar Ray Leonard was also on hand, kidding around with Lopez, but getting very serious when talking about The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation. “Our mission is to raise funds for research and awareness towards a cure for Juvenile diabetes,” reports Sugar Ray, who will host “Big Fighters, Big Cause,” his fourth annual charity boxing night, May 21, on the Santa Monica Pier.

Some of the celebrity guests learning about all the great causes included the MTV Movie Awards “Best Musical Moment” winners: Pitch Perfect cast members Ester Dean, Alexis Knapp, and Hana Mae Lee. Jared Gilman from the film Moonrise Kingdom had the biggest smile because he was nominated for “Best Kiss,” and little Oscar-nominee Quvenzhane Wallis from Beasts of the Southern Wild got an MTV nod for “Breakthrough Performance.” Also on hand Tamala Jones from Castle, Ray Liotta, Drake Bell, and Andy Dick, still surprised to be on Dancing with the Stars. Plus DWTS pro Gleb Savchenko was making the girls swoon at the event.

Dorothy Hamill, who had to leave DWTS for medical reasons, talked to the folks from the European-inspired Sparkling Hill Resort. They represented the wellness spa/resort that incorporated Swarovski crystal elements into every aspect of its design. The photos of the vacation resort in Vancouver were awesome.

The event’s presenting sponsor Viva Diva Wines created a party atmosphere with everyone enjoying their Pinot Grigio or incredible flavored Moscato. It was lovely while enjoying Sky’s Gourmet Tacos, Sabra Dips, and the popular Cookie Connection. KuKuRuZa Gourmet Popcorn provided a specialty “popcorn bar,” and musical entertainment came from DJ Baby Chino, the world’s youngest/ cutest DJ.

Other fantastic sponsors included Caribbean Living featuring the newest Hard Rock resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Cancun; Empress Essentials pure soy candles; Sol Republic’s customizable headphones; Jada Toys; 2K’s video games; SKLZ core muscle workout; and the most attention-grabbing beauty sponsor was imPRESS Press On Manicure by Broadway Nails.

Thanks to celebrity participation at the GBK event important causes got the spotlight, such as My Life My Power, Steps4 Paws, and Lambda Legal. But although Suzanne Lindley is not famous, she became an inspiring shining star for me. Full of positive energy, Lindley is the founder and executive director of Yes! Beat Liver Tumors. But more than a decade ago she was diagnosed with colon cancer which spread into her liver. She was told to prepare for the inevitable, but Lindley hung on to hope, found the right treatment that would help, and become a living testimony on how to beat the odds. Now she helps others through beatlivertumors.org, and says, “Every day is a gift.” Amen!

Pat Winters and Carrie Ann Inaba.

When I learned that The Tolucan Times’ Pet Issue was coming up, I discovered an actress who was “purr-fect” to profile. So let me shine a spotlight on Pat Winters, a terrific gal who is the cat’s meow.

A petite dynamo, Pat Winters told me when she was a little girl she had “a brown Tabby called Tiger, which is why I love Tabbies.” Actually she loves all pets great and small, but started Purr-fect Solutions Feline Rescue to save older cats and help them find a good home.

At first I talked to Pat about her career as an actress. I saw many great Hollywood photos of her around her home. The one of her at a party with Elvis certainly caught my eye, along with her gorgeous production stills. She appeared in one of my favorite movies Marjorie Morningstar. She also did guest appearances on classic TV shows such as The Beverly Hillbillies, Maverick and Mannix.

Pat came out to California in 1955 when she was Miss New Hampshire in the Miss USA/Universal contest, “and I stayed. I became a guest singer on Art Linkletter’s House Party. Then I was discovered for a Jane Powell movie called The Girl Most Likely, produced by Stan Rubin. I enjoyed my career, which included a lot of commercials, but then I got married and had two daughters.” Afterwards, she got into real estate sales “and I loved that too, until I retired.”

Bonita.

Then along came a calling for another “career” helping animals at her cattery. “I happened to fall into doing this. There was a house down the street with more than 100 cats, and I wanted to save as many as I could. Someone told me what to do and I did. Rescuing and sheltering the homeless cats gave birth to Purr-fect Solutions Feline Rescue in 2000.” It is a non-profit, no-kill, rescue group and shelter in Sherman Oaks. Pat and a terrific team of volunteers take care of the cats until they can find a loving home for them.

The hardest thing for them is to find homes for cats five years and older, “because most people fall in love with cute little kittens. But older cats are very loving and make the best pets because they’re already trained and not as crazy as kittens tearing up things. It is so heartbreaking to see the older ones passed up all the time. Although they are well cared for here, it just kills me to think they will never have a home of their own.”

Recently Pat’s friend Carrie Ann Inaba (the super-sweet judge on Dancing with the Stars) came to Purr-fect Solutions to do the video “CribCat presented by Carrie Ann Inaba, which helps match up deserving cats with the purr-fect crib.” And Pat was delighted that a couple of cats waltzed away into wonderful homes. Another celebrity that has helped Pat with fundraisers was Lee Meriwether (Barnaby Jones). Pat noted, “We sisters cannot imagine life without pets.”

There were so many adorable cats at the cattery. I fell in love with the very regal Kipp, Kit, Bonita, Bixby, and the orange tabby Byron. On Pat’s website there are pictures of all the beautiful cats and kittens available for adoption. All are tested for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, vaccinated, spayed/neutered and microchipped. You can go to www.purrfectsolutions.com and click on pictures of the cats and read their stories or call Pat Winters at 818-784-4297 if you want to adopt a loving feline companion. Meow! (That’s ‘thanks’ in cat-talk).

From l, Maria Menounos and Dr. Davis Nguyen share their “puppy love.”

Celebrities posed with puppies on the red carpet at the annual “Makeover for Mutts” event hosted by Dr. Davis B. Nguyen. And to no one’s surprise the pooches stole the spotlight and everyone’s heart.

The event honored animal activist Maria Menounos, the lovely entertainment reporter and host of Extra! She noted that she didn’t mind being upstaged by the adorable doggies “because that’s why we’re here, to let people know these sweet four legged angels need a forever home.”

All of the dogs on hand were up for adoption by the Much Love organization, and Maria mentioned her best friend was a rescue dog. “Sometimes at the shelters the dogs don’t look their best, so people will pass over a great dog that would be a perfect new family member. With just a little grooming, that dog could look so cute and get the attention of someone who wants to adopt. That’s the goal of the Makeovers for Mutts fundraiser.”

The gracious host of the event, Dr. Davis B. Nguyen (renowned for stunning cosmetic surgery makeovers), gave a passionate speech about bringing positive change for critters in need, and praised the Much Love volunteers who are dedicated to saving the lives of abused and abandoned animals in LA city shelters.

“I am pleased to partner with such a worthy organization to help these neglected animals get a second chance,” said Dr. Nguyen. “Since I was introduced to Much Love by several of my patients, I have learned how pervasive the problem is and how important it is to extend our reach to save as many animals as possible.” Each year Dr. Nguyen chooses to honor someone who has shown a strong commitment to the cause. This year he was pleased to honor Maria Menounos for her on-going dedication to rescuing animals.

“Rescuing abandoned animals has been my part-time job in LA. I have rescued and adopted many homeless dogs and have always fallen in love with each of them,” Menounos noted. “I would like to thank Dr. Nguyen’s ‘Makeovers for Mutts’ and Much Love for this honor. I hope that I can continue to make a difference and bring awareness to this cause.”

Among the celebrities at the Peninsula in Beverly Hills to support the cause were Karina Smirnoff (Dancing with the Stars), Lori Loughlin (90210), Vanessa Marano (Switched at Birth), Christian Serratos (Twilight), Courtney Robertson (The Bachelor), and David Faustino (Married With Children).

There was a ceremony to present Menounos with the Much Love “Golden Heart” Award in tribute to her ongoing efforts for animal rescue and advocacy. Much Love Animal Rescue is a non-profit volunteer-run organization that rescues abandoned and abused animals from Los Angeles area shelters. 100% of the funds raised from events like “Makeover for Mutts” go directly toward the animals’ care. Since 1999, Much Love has rescued and found homes for more than 3000 animals. That’s something to bark about.

Doctors and Models at PSJMC Guild’s fashion show.

It’s always a stylish affair thanks to the ladies who put together the Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center Guild’s annual fashion show and luncheon. But there was a greater sartorial air this year because of the “New York, New York” theme, and the St. Joe’s doctors look so cosmopolitan in their sharp suits and fedoras. They all had a ring-a-ding-ding quality as they strutted the runway with high-fashion models. It’s an eternal highlight of the Guild’s flagship fundraiser.

Singing classic Frank Sinatra tunes, Douglas Roegiers serenaded the gathering in Sheraton Universal’s Grand Ballroom. Then Guild president Patricia Scully welcomed everyone. She praised the many dedicated people who made the affair so fabulous, and especially gave thanks to the event’s director Barbara O’Kane. Michael A. Rembis, chief executive of Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center, also acknowledged the Guild ladies “who make a difference.” And he added a plug for St. Joe’s “boutique” gift shop and its volunteers.

Director Barbara O’Kane and crooner Doug Roegiers.

O’Kane was resplendent in a stylish hat, looking like she just strolled down the Big Apple’s Fifth Avenue. She saluted her co-director Donna Mahoney, “the fabulous angel on my shoulder,” along with their hard-working committee. Special thanks went to the “celebrity physician models, who always bring a lot of excitement to our day.” All made it a successful event that supports the Guild’s worthy goals. And O’Kane reminded everyone why they were there, to fulfill the Guild’s pledge for the Hycy and Howard Hill Neuroscience Institute “where we see miracles every day.”

Guild president Scully also noted, “We are very proud to support the Institute with the proceeds from our major fundraiser of the year. The Institute, its doctors and staff are accomplishing wonderful goals and we are happy to be part of their successes with our $500,000 pledge.”

Singer Douglas Roegiers acted as Master of Ceremonies and kept the “New York New York” theme going throughout the afternoon, along with a quartet of high-kicking Rockettes. Doug’s smooth introductions and announcements for the silent auction and prizes were done skillfully quick.

Notables in the audience were Hycy Hill, Sister Rose Byrne, Dr. and Mrs. Raul Mena, who made a generous donation of fine wines for the Silent Auction, and there was an introduction by Patricia E. Modrzejewski, president, Providence Health and Services Foundation, Valley regional office. The invocation was given by Rev. Msgr. Robert J. Gallagher, and superb pianist Jim Maurer entertained at the pre-event cocktail reception.

The amazing women who served on the Spring Event Committee all deserve credit: Marian Enos, in charge of the program book; Jill Allen, lovely centerpieces; Kathleen Marsden and Roberta Kerr, doing the Chances of the Day; Maureen Walsh, finance; Maria Balke, grand prize; Patricia Cassidy, hostesses; Claire Loughlin, Jackie Van Beveren, invitations; Julie McArdle, models/ graphics; Erica Mayer, Judy McDowell, opportunity prizes; Wanda Bistagne, patrons; Terry Campbell, press; Ollie Vick, reservations; Janice Khoury, Jo Massimini, silent auction; Lyne Alburn, table favors; and Lori Riela, vendors. A dynamo at 99, Grace Patz was there too, and is in charge of the Spring Card Party.

Now let’s talk fashion. The runway show was produced by Carin Holmenas. It featured stunning professional models showcasing the Lourdes Chavez Collection, with furs from Edwards-Lowell of Beverly Hills. And the eight fearless physicians from St. Joe’s who joined them on the runway were Dr. Raul Mena, Dr. Rex Hoffman, Dr. Robert Feinfield, Dr. David Sato, Dr. Steven Schmones, Dr. George Teitelbaum, Dr. Shahan Yacoubian, and Dr. Stephen Yacoubian.

Of course there were enthusiastic cheers from the crowd for the model-doctors who embodied Big Apple style. And the smooth as silk crooner Roegiers ended the perfect afternoon with the Sinatra-style blessing, “May all your hours be Happy Hours.”

Mark and Matt Harris with William Shatner (center).

This is turning out to be a big year for Wow! Creations Media founders Matt and Mark Harris, whose company and personal motto is “Anticipate Greatness.” The ultra-dapper and cheery twin brothers are known as the “Kings of Swag” among the celebrity crowd because they have hosted gifting lounges for the most prestigious events. They are everywhere VIPs gather. At Oscar time they are in Beverly Hills, and for the Kentucky Derby they are at Churchill Downs. From the Sundance Film Festival to the Canadian Country Music Awards, there’s always a parade of celebrities who beat a path to their luxury suites. They just have a knack for creating a fun and comfortable atmosphere.

Now they are charting new territory, wowing viewers who tune in A&E’s number one rated show Storage Wars. Last season Mark and Matt did a couple of episodes as expert appraisers, and the current season has them back for much more. They have been shooting the hit show for the past couple of months, and this time around they are showcasing their talents as buyers with humor and likable personalities. That was very evident on “The Kook, The Chief, His Son, and The Brothers” episode that aired recently. More great shows are coming up on the A&E schedule so check the listings.

“Filming Storage Wars has turned out to be a blast!” Mark told me. “In addition to that, we have our own online radio show called ‘The Tastemakers,’ on latalkradio.com. We like to talk about ‘the good life.’ We discuss fashion, style and the entertainment industry.” Mark and Matt are certainly well qualified since they have a wonderful reputation for great taste, and listen to the observations of their wives and children. Their recent broadcast had them talking about Justin Timberlake making pocket squares hip; Mad Men creating more of a demand for ’60s fashions; and the hottest trends in manicures from Jamberry Nail Shields. They are always interesting hosts, and you can listen to Mark and Matt live on Wednesdays at 12 p.m. (PST), occasionally bringing on a celebrity guest. Tune in for a great talk show.

Los Angeles natives, the Harris brothers founded Wow! Creations in 2004, presenting entertainment marketing and global strategy brand promotion. As industry veterans they travel the world hosting celebrity gifting events presenting the top vendors. They are at the Emmys, TBS Comedy Festival, TV Land Awards, the Grammys, Miss Universe, and William Shatner Charities, among others. They are gracious hosts and the stars love them. Mark noted that some of the celebrities they have enjoyed meeting include “President Bill Clinton, Prince Albert of Monaco, Michael Jordon, Quentin Tarantino, Donald Trump, Tim Allen, Kurt Russell, Gene Simmons, Eva Longoria, and so many more.”

Mark and Matt also keep busy judging beauty pageants including: Miss California, USA; Miss Nevada, USA; Miss Illinois, USA; Miss Maryland, USA; and Miss New Jersey, USA. The dynamic duo said it’s a great way to see the beauty of the country.

Knowing how much they are enjoying life, no wonder the Harris brothers are currently shopping around their own reality show The Kings of Swag and working on a documentary about their amazing lives. Good luck guys, we’ll anticipate greatness.