On the Town: Hillsides draws black-tie supporters

Hillsides Centennial Gala brought out over 600 supporters and stars. Pasadena’s Langham Huntington was the sparkling setting for the black-tie festivities on Saturday (Feb. 23). How to bring out the stars to your charity? Honor them. This fundraising tradition worked.

Honorees on Hillsides’ version of the red carpet were Pasadena resident and “Celebrity Rehab” talk show host Dr. Drew Pinsky accompanied by wife Susan Pinsky, NBC4 Weathercaster Fritz Coleman, CEO Paul Rusnak of the Rusnak Auto Group, Emmy-Award winning actress Jean Smart, comedian George Lopez and former football running back, Football Hall of Fame inductee and CBS analyst Marcus Allen. Not letting her hunk out of her sight was bride–to-be Lauren Allen, already jumping the gun on taking her fiancé’s last name.

Members of Hillsides leadership lined up in front of the well-lit, step-and-repeat banner were Board Chair Karen Tanji, CEO Joseph M. Costa and the ever-glam Elizabeth Rusnak Arizmendi. Daughter of Paul Rusnak she’s taken the reins of her family business as vice-president of public relations. Joining Elizabeth on the red carpet were husband Andrew Arizmendi, son Andrew Arizmendi II, 19, and daughter Isabella Arizmendi, 14.

“The gala was two years in the planning,” said event chairwoman Elizabeth. “Tonight is all about entertainment.” Entertainers included keynote speaker and comedian-author Christopher Rich and Nina Fetter & The Feds Jazz Quartet Band. Tripping the light fantastic was U.S. Ballroom Dance Champion and “Dancing with the Stars” star Christian Perry. Pasadena’s Polytechnic School student dancers performed the program’s introduction dance.

Honorary Chairman of the Honorary Committee was Coleman. He was presented his award by NBC4 anchor Colleen Williams.

Other highlights of the evening included a gourmet four-course dinner. The mouth-watering entree was filet mignon. Table floral arrangements of cascading white roses were designed and donated by Jacob Maarse Florists. Wines were donated by the Riboli Family.

The de rigor live auction featured such items as aguitar signed by Elton John. In addition each guest took home a leather-bound Hillsides Centennial Tribute Book. It features the organization’s new logo, photos and congratulatory letters from local and state politicians, and tributes from supporters.

Elizabeth Rusnak estimated the evening proceeds will reach Hillsides’ fundraising goal of $1 million. The funds will help promote Hillsides’ mission of providing high-quality care, advocacy, and innovative service that promote safe and permanent environments where young people can thrive. Founded in 1913, Hillsides is dedicated to improving the overall well-being and functioning of vulnerable children and families in Pasadena and the surrounding communities.

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RUTH SOWBY may be reached at ruthasowby@gmail.com.