In what is clearly the social event of the season, The American Red Cross of Santa Monica held its annual Red Tie Affair on Saturday, April 17 at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel. Most of the 500 elegantly attired guests, arrived sporting something red, included local community leaders as well as celebrities from the entertainment and sports world. Among the “glitterati,” were Will Smith, Josh Duhamel, Stacy “Fergie” Ferguson, former Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, and the entire HawthoRNe cast.
This year’s Red Tie Award recipients included Jada Pinkett Smith, who stars in the medical drama HawthoRNe, and was awarded the American Red Cross Crystal Cross. Barbara Browning, a real-life nurse at Santa Monica/UCLA Medical Center and Orthopaedic Hospital, received the Rick Crocker Spirit of Volunteerism Award honoring her 45 years of service to the community. It was presented by Santa Monica City Councilman Bobby Shriver. This award was created in honor of Santa Monica Red Cross volunteer and Santa Monica police officer, killed in Iraq while on active duty as a United States Marine Corp Reservist.
Fox 11 News anchor Christine Devine served as master of ceremonies for the third straight year. A gourmet three-course meal was prepared under the supervision of celebrity chef Nick Stellino for the enjoyment of those in attendence. And in these most difficult economic times, attendees generously supported the American Red Cross, the quiet, unsung heroes who are first on the scene to help in time of need.
