Gala Nets $382,000 for L.A. Clinic

Friends of the Los Angeles Free Clinic saluted record producer Lou Adler at its 25th anniversary gala Dec. 8 at the Regent Beverly Wilshire. The benefit, attended by 500 guests, netted $382,000. Funds support the clinic, which offers free medical and dental services, legal and psychological counseling, day health care for the elderly and for people with AIDS, a medication information hot line, a temporary employment program for homeless youth and a teen theater group to educate youth on issues such as AIDS and substance abuse. Co-chairs were Deborah and Bernie Brillstein, Barbara Corday and Roger Lowenstein, David Hoberman, Ellen and Tom Hoberman, Barbara and Garry Marshall, and Mimi and Bernie West.

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ACLU of Southern California celebrated the 201st anniversary of the Bill of Rights Dec. 11 at the Century Plaza Hotel. Honorees were Anita F. Hill and Barbra Streisand. The benefit gala, attended by 1,500, netted $200,000 to fund the ACLU’s programs to defend civil liberties and civil rights. Executive director Ramona Ripston was host. Comedienne Paula Poundstone was emcee.

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Vistas for Blind Children netted $32,000 at its Nov. 22 musical fashion show, luncheon and boutique at the Torrance Marriott. Proceeds will provide ongoing support for the Institute for Families of Blind Children at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles. The institute provides counseling to family members when there is a diagnosis of blindness or visual impairment.

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Friends of the Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic celebrated their 68th year of service Nov. 15 with a brunch and auction at the home of Joseph and Ruth Sinay. The benefit raised $21,800 to support programs benefiting mentally ill, emotionally disturbed and abused children in Central and South-Central Los Angeles. Clinic plans include construction of a new facility at Exposition Boulevard and Vermont Avenue.

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Habley Medical President Terry Haber presented a $100,000 check to the Los Angeles Mission Dec. 10. The medical equipment firm’s gift will partially fund a diagnostic hematology laboratory to serve the homeless, who are at high risk for blood-related diseases. The mission is a nonprofit, inner-city relief agency that provides food, shelter, clothing and rehabilitation.