Nature’s Masquerade Presents a Sumptuous Carnivale in Palm Springs

By: Valerie Milano

Photos: THT

Palm Desert, CA (The Hollywood Times) 10/9/19 – They called it The Gala Fundraiser and Dinner Of The Year. With 211 people in attendance to celebrate the Palm Springs Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence’s 12 years of dedicated service to the community, this elegant event fulfilled all promises. Held Sunday at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and benefiting Friends of the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, Animal Samaritans, Paws and Hearts, and the PSSPI Charity Grant Fund, it was a visually spectacular affair that unfurled under a perfect late-summer desert evening sky.

The Hollywood Times acted as a media sponsor, and Senior Editor Valerie Milano presided over her own table of lively friends and generous benefactors. A glittering vision in masquerade attire, guests enjoyed a complimentary cocktail hour along with mixing and mingling among several live animal encounters—including one curious and majestic owl whose own elaborate feathered headdress fit right into the night’s festivities. Wine and cocktails flowed, glasses held high in tinkling toasts, and an elegantly plated menu appeared perfectly in three courses throughout the evening.

Dinner choices included Tri-Tip, Chicken Piccata, and Pasta Primavera. And, if all that weren’t enough, guests were treated to a plush lovey of their own–a Panda, Lion, or Elephant, depending on their preference.

Performances by outstanding talents, Keisha D, Terry Larson, and Fabeyonce had guests singing along to several familiar Broadway tunes and up out of their seats dancing to the familiar rhythms of Whitney Houston’s infectious I Wanna Dance With Somebody. The evening’s program was hosted by the fabulous Ethylina Canne. Guests were encouraged to participate with the entertainers as they moved around the tables dancing and singing. Fun was had by all and the positive energy was infectious

A silent auction featuring original artwork and exciting trips, along with a lively auction and raffle, followed. Two of the most coveted items, an original Elizabeth Chandler valued at $5,500.00 and original Mike Bohrer art piece valued at $2,200.00, quickly found their home with some of the evenings most generous patrons.

When all the magic finally began to wind down, masks falling away and friends lingering over good byes, the event had clearly exceeded all expectations, ensuring these most worthy animal organizations can continue their important work by way of the generous patrons of our Palm Springs and Coachella Valley communities.

Those who opened their hearts to help sponsor this event by purchasing tables (at upwards of $2,000 for admission), donating merchandise or services to the auctions, raffles, and event production, were, of course, the true glittering stars of the evening.

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