On the Town: Masquerade party benefits Glendale Healthy Kids
Just in time for Halloween, Glendale Healthy Kids’ second Annual Celebration was aptly themed “The Grand Masquerade — an evening of Masks, Music and Mysterious Identities.” On Saturday, Americana’s Trattoria Amici was the setting for the mysterious merriment.
A cocktail reception and silent auction kicked off the evening on the Americana’s green. Harlequin masks were provided to anyone who wanted to appear mysterious.
Attending from the political front were U.S. Rep Adam Schiff (D-Burbank), state Sen. Carol Liu (D-La Cañada) and Assemblyman Anthony Portantino (D-La Cañada).
During a program emceed by Phillip Palmer of ABC7, board past presidents were honored in front of 200 supporters. Past presidents were Bill Wilkie, Debbie Hinckley, Dr. Gary Finner, Kathleen Powers, Dr. Brian Bergh, Elizabeth Manasserian and current President Allyn Heck. A quick presentation of the past president awards was handled by Bruce Hinckley and Event Chair Lusine Yarian.
Former Glendale Mayor Sheldon Baker was the able auctioneer of the live auction that followed. The favorite getaway was a one-week stay in Cambria. Manasserian won that one for $1,000.
At nightfall, guests left the green to enter the nearby Trattoria Amici. Dinner prepared by Chef Piero Topputo was to die for. The choices of entrees were pasta, salmon or filet mignon — that one melted in your mouth.
Glendale Healthy Kids’ Chief Executive Officer Sharon Townsend Roth estimated that with the help of the event’s Gold Sponsors, the evening’s net proceeds would be close to $40,000. The funds will support the organization’s vision, which is to provide “a community in which every child has optimal health.” Gold Sponsors were Glendale Adventist Medical Center, Glendale Memorial Hospital and Health Center and Massage Envy Spa.
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In spite of presidential debates, Monday Night Football and the first game of the World Series Oct. 22, the Glendale Assn. for the Retarded gamely soldiered on with the last in its series of Restaurant Charity Nights. This one was held at Mori Teppan Grill on West Stocker Street. About 60 clients and supporters showed up for an early dinner, perhaps hoping to catch some TV later on. Enjoying their chef’s deft hands and quick knives were Liza Boubari, of Heal Within, and John Simpson. All were impressed with Chef Martin Suzuki’s onion volcano. Stacking onion slices on top of each other created a dome doused with liquor to produce a fiery spectacle.
GAR’s Executive Director Sandy Doughty was hostess, GAR Board President Eric Hamilton was her trusty backup.
A percentage of the night’s profits will be donated to GAR. In spite of competing events on TV, Doughty estimated that proceeds would be in the vicinity of $300.
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Intuitive Touch Massage Therapy on Grandview Street in Glendale has set today as a last chance to contribute $2 to be entered in a drawing to win a 60-minute Swedish massage with aroma therapy valued at $75. Go to the website www.youcaring.com. Search for “pinknperky,” then scroll down to the pink square.
On the donor page add your name and email address in the appropriate boxes. You can pay by credit card or PayPal.
Intuitive Touch’s PinknPerky breast cancer internet fundraiser will benefit Helen’s Room at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Los Angeles. Wigs, hairpieces, hats, breast prosthetics and mastectomy bras are provided for women undergoing cancer treatment.
On Sunday, Intuitive Touch Massage owner Jaime Preston and her office manager and sister Debra Preston spread the word at the The Pilates Body next door. There, another fundraiser was going on. For a $10 entrance fee, manager and Glendale resident Debbie John taught Bollywood dancing to all visitors. A portion of the money raised will go to Make a Wish Foundation.
RUTH SOWBY may be reached at ruthasowby@gmail.com.