Columnist Elizabeth Foyt: Annual ball is a Heart-felt event

Elizabeth Foyt

Wednesday, Feb. 18, 1998 | 10:38 a.m.

BELOVED for its worthy cause and the dedicated efforts that go into its creation, the annual Heart Ball is indeed a gala event. Planned with an eye to the exotic beauty of the Far East, this year's theme was "Heart of the Orient."

Co-chaired by Dr. Leo Spaccavento, president of the Las Vegas Valley Division of the American Heart Association, with his wife Sandy, as well as board trusteee Roger Peltyn and his equally remarkable bride Sandy, the ball filled the sparkling Sunset Ballroom on the upper level of the Flamingo Hilton. Adding to the special mood of the evening was the gracious appearance by Karl Mitchell with his tigers, which gave body to the Chinese observance of the Year of the Earth Tiger. Lending their talents as well to the success of the evening were committee members, including Carolyn Stephens, Gwen Hernandez, Emily Shehane, Edward Zub, Priscilla Hughes, Sophie LaPointe and others, as well as the very talented Terje Torgersen, Hilton executive chef, who created the superb meal as his personal tribute.

Entering guests were drawn to the silent auction, where bidding began on a fast note and continued briskly as tables of treasures assured something for everyone. Jeanne Hood, Christine Brewer, Dr. Victor Williams, Linda Sklute and Marty Greenbaum with Nancy Katz were among those sipping champagne and enjoying the Asian finger foods as they placed their bids for gourmet dining, rare sports memorabilia, collectibles and travel.

Setting the crowd abuzz were the never-before-offered selections from Hilton resorts around the nation, including Del Mar, Hilton Head, Lexington Green, Atlanta, Waikoloa Village and other vacation destinations. Making their own choice selections were state Sen. Kathy Augustine, Jeanne McClendon, Dr. Scott McDonald, Buck and Phyllis Skalak and Beth and Terry Jones. Mingling easily with fellow guests were Sandy and Lt. Gov. Dr. Lonnie Hammargren. While Sandy shared tales of their recent vacation in Egypt, Lonnie spoke with SAG member Eddie Simmons about his cameo appearance in a Las Vegas episode of "Chicago Hope."

Moving on to the ballroom and their places at dinner, the crowd found easy distraction in the music and charming Oriental decor. Our most congenial tablemates were Jerry and Carolyn Stephens, artist Susan Slewing with Steve Keyser, Betty Ann and Terry Jones, and former American Heart Board member Michael Mayes, newly named president of DRGM Public Relations and Marketing, who attended with his wife Lynne.

Drawn like moths to the flame by the alternating music of Salsa Machine and the Dan Nelson Band, couples danced between dinner courses and late into the night. Held in the embrace of the music were newlyweds April and Dr. Paul Stewart, as well as Vi and Fred Gorte, Beverly and Michael Mykisen, Linn and Darryl Thome, Barbara Robinson and hubby Dr. Andres Costas, Drs. Parvin and Ted Modaber Jacobs and Morton and Joyce Galane.

Honored with the American Heart Association's prestigious Heart of Gold Awards was thoracic and cardiovascular surgeon Dr. William Cavin (Healthcare) joined by Kathy Shepherd, representing Hilton Hotel Corp. (Business Support), and Tom McCormick, general manager of Reuben H. Donnelley (Communications). Presiding over the award ceremonies were Roger and Sandy Peltyn with Dr. Leo and Sandy Spaccavento.

Made in the Shade

Patricia Martenelli-Price, long a supporter of -- and benefactor to -- Shade Tree Shelter, ushered in a bit of Valentine's joy with an early party for the children who reside within the shelter. Welcoming the youngsters into her home, Martenelli-Price served a lavish "high tea" complete with scones, homemade cookies and other delectable treats certain to tempt their appetites. A bus donated by Circus Circus hotel-casino transported the children from the shelter to her home, where games and relaxing good times brought much laughter and enjoyment.

Unfortunately, the party's end meant a return to Shade Tree Shelter, where each meal involves a walk to the Salvation Army Dining Room some distance away. Shade Tree Shelter is currently working to build a new and better-equipped shelter for the women and children it serves. Plans will include a full kitchen and dining room as well as expanded space for homeless clients. Those wishing to help this project spring to life are asked to contact Brenda Dizon (385-0072) or send contributions to: The Shade Tree, P.O. Box 665, Las Vegas, NV 89125.

What an Opportunity

Like our community itself, the population served by Opportunity Village continues to grow by leaps and bounds, stretching its programs and creating new demands for services among the mentally disabled. Opportunity Village is 80 percent self-funded and depends on successful fund-raisers to keep its doors open. Star among its community events is "The Concert of Love," which hosts some 1,200 guests annually. Slated for Sunday in the Caesars Palace Circus Maximus Showroom, the afternoon concert is a consistent sell-out. Featuring the best in international and local entertainment, "The Concert of Love '98" will feature the Rockettes, One Spirit from "EFX," Jean Francois from MADhattan" and featured acts from "Spellbound," "Imagine" and other Strip productions. Tickets go fast, so contact Opportunity Village at 259-3741 for reservations.

Career planning

UNLV's 19th annual campus-wide Career Day will be held Thursday in the Thomas & Mack Concourse. A free offering for both enrolled students and alumni participants, this splendid opportunity for career advancement runs 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Participating corporations and businesses will offer general career information, career-related opportunities and full-time professional employment specifics. The UNLV Alumni Association is sponsoring the day in conjunction with student government and the Career Services Office and is delighted to report that more than 200 employers will be present. Harrah's hotel-casino, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Binion's Horseshoe hotel-casino, Red Lobster, the FBI and Federal Bureau of Prisons, Southwest Airlines, Walt Disney World, Vail Cascade hotel and EG&G Projects are among those participating. Career Day is valuable to all majors, freshmen through seniors, as well as those who have already graduated from UNLV. Contact the Career Services Office, 895-3495, for additional information.