In what is becoming an increasingly coveted event, the American Red Cross of Santa Monica’s annual “Red Tie Affair” fundraiser gala is tonight at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, 101 Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica. Paprazzi shutters will be aflicker as 450-plus attendees are expected and the guest list includes both community leaders as well as celebrities, VIPs, entertainment, and sports professionals.
Renowned actress and comedian Betty White will be the 2011 recipient of the coveted American Red Cross “Crystal Cross Award” for her outstanding contributions to animal welfare. Providing comfort and care for animals during major disaster is a growing concern for the American Red Cross.
The Santa Monica Red Cross is spearheading the creation and establishment of a nationwide Red Cross program to aid and shelter animals during emergencies and to provide year-round pet CPR and pet first aid classes for the public. White, with her lifelong advocacy of caring for animals, is the consummate embodiment of this new and exciting venture and an inspiration to everyone at the American Red Cross.
The Red Cross Spirit Award will go to actor and Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet member Josh Duhamel who helped raise funds for the Haitian and Japanese earthquake relief by organizing youth runs on the Santa Monica Beach that raised hundreds of thousands of dollars.
The Rick Crocker Spirit of Volunteerism Award will be bestowed on a remarkable team of doctors From St. John’s Health Center who traveled to Haiti and assisted in the relief effort after the Haitian earthquake, last year.
National American Red Cross President and CEO Gail McGovern will attend this year’s exclusive event that recognizes the humanitarian spirit of extraordinary individuals.
Celebrity chef, author and TV show host, Nick Stellino will once again supervise the preparation of a gourmet dinner created especially for the event. Award winning KTTV Fox 11 News anchor, Christine Devine is the Master of Ceremonies for the gala for the fourth year in a row and world-famous singer Romina Arena will perform.
For tickets and information about the Red Tie Affair, contact Marcia Caldirola, 310.445.2674 or call the Santa Monica Red Cross at 310.394.3773 during business hours.
