Gay Heritage Month – Thalians Presidents Club – Yad Vashem Salute To Hollywood

The Hollywood Museum celebrated Gay Heritage Month by partnering with Los Angeles City Council member, Mitch O’Farrell, and presenting an engaging exhibition – their 3rd Annual Reel to Real, Portrayals and Perceptions of Gays in Hollywood. This exhibit features costumes, props and photos that tell the story of the influence that LGBT characters, storylines and industry professionals have in Hollywood. We were pleased to attend the opening night reception, featuring Tony winner/TV icon, Julie Newmar, known best as Catwoman in the Batman series. The still-sexy siren remarked: “I was told that most of you in this room have dressed up as me! All I can say is that you have good taste, and I am honored to be here to support the community.”
Some of the VIP’s in attendance included, comedian Judy Tenuta, Lee Purcell, Erin Murphy (“Bewitched”), soap star Kate Linder, and actor Dorell Anthony of Pride. Honored was the late screen icon Doris Roberts (“Everyone Loves Raymond”), and PR pro, Dale Olson who represented everyone from Academy Award winning performers to U.S. presidents. The exhibit at the Museum runs till Sept. 4, and tickets range from $5 -$15. For further info, checkout TheHollywoodMuseum.com.
I spent a delightful afternoon at the California Yacht Club with The Thalians Presidents Club, founded by Dr. Irwin Lehrhoff . Adorable Stephanie J. Hibler, event Chairperson, produced the Anchors Away soirée to raise funds for Operation Mend at UCLA. Dr. Thomas Strouse, medical director at Resnick Neuropsychiatric hospital, spoke on behalf of this organization which supports Mental Health Programs for disabled war veterans.
In addition to a fab Sunday brunch, we were entertained by Gary S. Greene and his Big Band of Barristers; seen dancing the day away was actress Ruta Lee, Bob and Kira Lorsch, Dr. Bruce M. Hensel, and TV reporter, George Pennacchio.
Last, but not least, pleased to announce that over $600,000 was raised at the American Society for Yad Vashem and the Jewish Life Foundation at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. These organizations are dedicated to the Holocaust Martyrs and Heroes, and fund Jewish-themed cultural and educational programs on Jewish Life TV. Hollywood producers Meyer Gottlieb and Branko Lustig received the Legacy Award; and the Hollywood Reporter received the Vanguard Award for their coverage of “The Last Survivors.” Did you know that the Holocaust ended 70 years ago, and that only 11 people who lived through it, remain from the world of entertainment? These include Roman Polanski and Dr. Ruth Westheimer. What a privilege to see them all honored at this heart-warming event.