Columnist Muriel Stevens: Pro Bono Project highlights the ‘Diamonds and Rubies’ ball

Tuesday, Dec. 9, 1997 | 10:05 a.m.

The Clark County Pro Bono (for the good of the public) Project presented its annual "Black Magic With Diamonds and Rubies" fundraiser Saturday night, in the convention area of the elegant new Palace Tower at Caesars Palace.

Event coordinators Sandy and Roger Peltyn orchestrated the evening with their usual grace and style, enlisting the aid of Drs. Parvin and Theodore Jacobs, Michele and Michael Berk, Tove Allen, Jeri Packe, Tena Rogers, Lynn Shoen (Pro Bono Project president), and Jon Tullis. Sandy was wearing a sophisticated black ball gown highlighted with a smashing diamond necklace, her only adornment.

The Clark County Pro Bono Project provides free or low-cost legal assistance to low and moderate income residents of Clark County. Anyone who meets the financial guidelines is eligible. Only civil matters are addressed. Pro Bono does not handle criminal cases, traffic citations, fee-generating cases or appeals. For those who meet the criteria, the service is invaluable.

It is a tradition each year for the Pro Bono Project to recognize members of the community who generously contribute goods, services and time for the benefit of others. Recipients Rino Armeni, Shaaron Garrett, Judge Lloyd George, Ann Lynch, Jon Tullis and Jack Weinstein more than fill the bill.

Armeni, executive marketing director for Southern Wine and Spirits, never says no to a good cause and is a tireless worker for many local charities. A former executive with Caesars Palace, he was the founder and first president of the Food and Beverage Directors Association of Nevada and has been the recipient of many hospitality industry awards. It's hard to believe, but the dashing, gentle Armeni was once a commando in the Italian army.

Honoree Sharron Garrett is a survivor of domestic violence. It was her own experience that made her such a valuable employee at the Pro Bono Project where she worked for nearly six years. At the time of her departure to a new life in another state, Garrett was the Project's Case Manager in charge of client placement. She began her career at the Pro Bono Project as a receptionist. Her ability to overcome her own adversity made her an invaluable resource.

The Honorable Lloyd D. George is the Chief United States District Judge for the District of Nevada. This distinguished judge is a generous contributor to many charities and organizations. For nearly 25 years, Judge George has devoted his career to the premise of "justice for all," not only on the rulings he makes from the bench, but in his many community activities. When the new courthouse is completed, it will proudly bear his name.

Ann Lynch, the vice president of community affairs for Columbia Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center, has dedicated her life to education and public service. Her work has touched not only the lives of children in Clark County, but millions of children throughout the United States. Her outstanding work with the PTA brought far-reaching recognition when she served as president of the National PTA. The list of local organizations she has served is endless. Lynch was out of town. Accepting her award was Mitch Mitchell, CEO of Columbia Sunrise and Medical Center.

Donald Rager rejoices in being alive. A liver transplant recipient, he serves on the board of UNOS -- United Network for Organ Sharing. A successful businessman, Rager is an executive with a number of enterprises. His zest for life includes his participation and completion of the 1997 Pike's Peak Hill Climb. In the life of this indomitable man, no mountain is too high to conquer.

Jon Tullis was not aware he was a Pro Bono Project Award recipient until two hours before the event. He was busy doing what he does for numerable charity events -- acting as special coordinator and designer, pro bono, of course. Countless charitable organizations have benefitted from the generosity and expertise of Tullis. The "Tullis Touch" has brightened many a charity event, adding a touch of beauty that few organizations could afford without him. His contributions to the Pro Bono event were stunning.

Jack Weinstein's Tower of Jewels started 30 years ago with one store, now there are eight. A donation of a precious piece of jewelry from Tower of Jewels has stimulated bidding at many a silent auction, thanks to the benevolence of the big-hearted jeweler. It is a rare event that doesn't feature a precious bauble contributed by Weinstein. Says Weinstein, good corporate citizenship is important, not only because it's good business, but because it is the right thing to do.

Among those enjoying the dinner, dancing and entertainment were: Denise and Ed Fasulo, Lucy and Paul Pusateri, Simone Salen, Sandy and Dr. Leo Spaccarienta, Marie Claire Armeni (Mrs. Rino) with daughters Paola and Laura, Nancy and Kell Houssels, Colette and Sidney Saltz, Dr. Jim Hogan, Kitty Rodman, Thalia Dondero, Barbara Robinson and Dr. Andres Costa, Larry Spitler, Nancy Weiner (Mrs. Jack) with offspring Joey, Mary, Sean and Polly, Papote Varet, Chantal and Steve Cloobeck, Anival Llende, Mike Severino and Denise Labri, judges Nancy Becker, Diane Steel, Barbara Johnston, Terry Marren, Fran Fine, Bill Maupin, Nancy Osterle, Sally Loeher with husband Peter, Michael Douglas with wife Martha, and Deborah Lippis, who did a fine turn as a surprise guest star, singing with the orchestra.

Alicia Jacobs was a fine emcee, keeping the awards ceremony moving at a lively pace. Lisa Cote and Stephanie Galemme, wearing stunning matching velvet gowns by Jessica McClintock, escorted the honorees to the stage.

Entertainment by Inez Mourning's Studio One troupe of dancers, ages 10 to 17 years, was wonderful. Polly Weinstein, the 10-year-old daughter of Nancy and Jack, performed solo and brought the house down. The talented youngster is a dedicated performer aiming for a show business career. She's got the talent and poise to make it.

Ongoing music for dancing was provided by the Diamonds and Rubies orchestra and Sylvet and the La Salsa Machine Band. Guests dined and danced the night away at the super event that benefitted a most worthy cause.