The hot new venue in town is the luxurious Intercontinental Hotel in our own Century City. We attended several events at this haute yet “homey” hotel and find that the atmosphere, food, and service are perfect!
We had the opportunity to meet film and TV entertainer Jennifer Lewis who stars on the hit sitcom, “Black-ish” (along with Anthony Anderson and Tracie Ellis-Ross) who hosted C.A.R.R.Y ON, an organization, founded by celeb dermatologist Pearl Grimes, dedicated to improving the lives of foster and at-risk youth.
In only 10 years, they have raised more than $1 million to provide pro-bono medical services, life changing social skills, and scholarship programs to thousands of underserved city’s youth.
After a sampling of delicious tapas, open bar, and bountiful buffet, we were treated to a delightful show, starring Lewis, who performed in the Broadway hit “Hairspray” as Mothermouth Maybelle. You know the joint was jumpin!
Jennifer Lewis, of “Blackish” at C.A.R.R.Y ON. Photo by Vince Bucci & Integrated PR.
Some of the esteemed guests included Marilyn Mc Coo and Billy Davis Jr. (Fifth Dimension), Carla Ortiz (Oscar contender “Olvidados”), John Savage, and Kate Linder (“Young & The Restless”).
Speaking of Superwomen, Suzanne de Passe, chairman of de Passe Jones Entertainment, was honored by Big Brothers-Big Sisters for inspiring and being a positive role model to our youth.
During her career as President of Motown Productions, she discovered future stars The Jackson Five and Lionel Richie and was nominated for an Academy Award for co-writing “Lady Sings the Blues.” She provides support and mentors newcomers to the industry – and mentoring is what BBBS is all about!
Also honored posthumously was iconic author Jackie Collins. Comedian Kathy Griffin, honored her personal big sister with the Pioneer Award “for an author who dared to step where no other female writer had gone before.”
As Collins said in her final interview: “I want people to see me as an example of strength…doing things my way.” Kudos to President Tiffany Siart who stated that 95 percent of their young participants graduated high school; and entered a higher education program. Best news is that $600,000 was raised to benefit their mentoring programs.
