Gilda Awards – ABC Mother’s Day Luncheon – Concern Field of Dreams

When I hear the name GILDA – I always think of two famous Gilda’s Rita Hayworth, whose performance in the flick of the same name was legendary; and Saturday Night Live’s comedic genius, Gilda Radner, who died at age 42 due to ovarian cancer. The plucky performer, married to actor Gene Wilder, fought hard to conquer this dread disease. It was appropriate that the Cancer Support Community presented an annual award in her honor, to actress Frances Fisher (Titanic).  Honored, as well were Joyce Green, and Matthew Loscalzo.   Fisher received her Award from her gorgeous daughter, Francesca Eastwood. With Clint Eastwood as her Dad –how could she miss? Fran Dresher (also a cancer survivor) was a great fan of Gilda Radner &sent a touching video tribute.

ABC President, Gloria Gebbia, actress Donna Mills with Patrick Wayne (son of John Wayne)

ABC President, Gloria Gebbia, actress Donna Mills with Patrick Wayne (son of John Wayne)

At another event, The Associates for Breast & Prostrate Cancer (ABC’s) held its annual Mother’s ‘Day luncheon at the Four Seasons Hotel in B.H.  The afternoon honored attorney Gloria Allred, and award winning actresses Donna Mills and Lorraine Toussaint.  Comedian Cocoa Brown emceed the event, which showcased an informal fashion show by Grayse, and a luxury boutique, where vendors donated a portion of proceeds to the organization.  Event Co-Chairs Beverly Cohen& Sheri Rosenblum welcomed over300 guests, thanking them for their support.  Gloria Gebbia, President of the ABC’s, dedicated the luncheon to long time supporter, Elaine Lerman, who passed away two months ago.

Francesca Eastwood presented award to her Mom, Frances Fisher

Francesca Eastwood presented award to her Mom, Frances Fisher

Patrick Wayne, son of the iconic actor John Wayne, presented the Women of Achievement Award to actress Donna Mills (Knot’s Landing). The adorable actress was joined by co-stars Michelle LeeJoan Van Ark. Nice to see the reunion of these three ageless ladies-who look even better today!

Actresses Michelle Lee, Donna Mills Joan Van Ark (Knots Landing)

Actresses Michelle Lee, Donna Mills Joan Van Ark (Knots Landing)

Last but not least, you will have the opportunity to attend Concern Foundations Field of Dreams on July 9th at Paramount Studios. This event aims to raise $2 million to fund methods to treating cancer. The Block Party will honor Dr.Peter & Rebecca Grossman (Grossman Burn Foundation); and former Beverly Hills Mayor Barry Brucker & his wife Sue will receive the inaugural Beth Hersh Goldmith Conquer Cancer Now Heroes Award.

Exec. Director Julia Forth, Honorees Matthew Loscalzo, Frances Fisher & Joyce Green (Gilda Awards)

Exec. Director Julia Forth, Honorees Matthew Loscalzo, Frances Fisher & Joyce Green (Gilda Awards)

This year’s event will feature multiple stages of live entertainment, casino style games, live & silent auctions, and fantastic food from over 70 of L.A.’s best  restaurants.  For further info, check out their website.  Hope to see you there!

Attorney Gloria Allred with Lea Purwin d'Agostino at ABC Luncheon (photo credits - Vince Bucci)

Attorney Gloria Allred with Lea Purwin d’Agostino at ABC Luncheon (photo credits – Vince Bucci)


As a television personality, guest speaker, newspaper reporter and columnist and one of the social arbiters of Los Angeles, Marci Weiner has touched every aspect of entertainment journalism. She has appeared as guest reporter on TV shows including Joan Rivers shows, Eye on LA, and the USA Network. In addition, she has hosted her own segments on Soap Talk, Hollywood Style and Hotline after Dark. You may contact Marci for info and invitations at [email protected]

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