Hollywood & Highland

Security for the glitzy opening of Hollywood & Highland’s Governors Ballroom was intense . Even stars were asked for photo IDs as they arrived at “Stars 2001” to benefit the Fulfillment Fund, which provides scholarships and mentoring to local high school and college students.

The dinner for 1,200 honored DreamWorks SKG partner Jeffrey Katzenberg, who admitted , “I’m a reluctant honoree. My contributions were: 1) insisting that it wouldn’t be black-tie, and 2) making sure everyone would be out by 9:30. Being honored is very flattering, but I know what it really means is ‘I’m old.’ Even my golden retriever is now ‘old’ Yeller.”

The ballroom, operated by Wolfgang Puck, was designed by L.A. architect Dianna Wong, who said she took her inspiration from Hollywood, circa 1929. The faux alabaster lights are reminiscent of the Bullocks-Wilshire perfume salon. The carpet replicates the pattern in the lining of a 1920s woman’s handbag; the pewter leaf motif on the panels is copied from Tiffany showcases of the period; and the draperies are designed like a woman’s ball gown.

“I dressed the room the way I would dress a glamorous star for the Academy Awards,” said Wong. The event raised more than $2.5 million.

Coming Up:

* The Desert Samaritans for the Elderly will honor Jean Daman as Good Samaritan of the Year tonight at its annual dinner-dance at the Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage Hotel. Tickets $250. Call (760) 837-9066.

* The Wellness Community West Los Angeles hosts “Blando’s Birthday Bash,” a murder-mystery dinner tonight at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. Tickets start at $125. Call (310) 314-2555.

* The sixth annual John Wayne Cancer Institute’s Terry Fox Run is set for today at Veterans Administration Park in West L.A. Registration: $25; $20 for seniors and children under 12. Call (310) 582-7073

* “The Lesser Romantics,” a concert in the Pasadena Conservatory of Music’s benefit series “Mansions, Art and Music,” will be at a private home today in Pasadena. Tickets: $50. Call (626) 683-3355.