BECKSTRAND CANCER FOUNDATION AIMS TO RAISE $1 MILLION AT 2007 DIAMOND & PEARL BALL

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (September 18, 2007) – Beckstrand Cancer Foundation has announced plans to host its 4th Annual Diamond & Pearl Ball, “An Evening in the Orient,” at the Balboa Bay Club & Resort in Newport Beach on Saturday, October 13 at 6:00 PM. The fund-raiser gala will celebrate the life of Mr. Tom Riach, a sought-after athlete, prominent real estate developer, business leader and area-resident. Dedicated to improving and enhancing the quality of life of cancer patients and their families; the Foundation’s gala chairs expect to raise $1 million at the event to be attended by 500 guests.

“In the past, the overwhelming generosity of our supporters has allowed Beckstrand the opportunity to increase our level of support to cancer patients and afforded us the means to extend our assistance to pediatric patients in need,” said Lil Spitzer, Executive Director of the Beckstrand Cancer Foundation. “This year, through the steadfast support of the community and our presenting sponsors, Neiman Marcus Fashion Island and Van Cleef & Arpels at Neiman Marcus, we hope to continue that mission.”

The Diamond & Pearl Ball has become known for its one-of-a-kind auction items, and the 2007 gala promises to not disappoint. Auctioneer Mark Schenfeld will helm a live auction that includes a once-in-a-lifetime Parisian adventure to visit the original mansion of Louis Vuitton, the special order workshop, and exquisite Louis Vuitton Museum in Asnieres, France. First-class airfare accommodations are included along with a new set of Louis Vuitton luggage pieces. The live auction will be punctuated by the sale of stunning Van Cleef & Arpels pendant and drop earrings from the Snowflake Collection valued at more than $83,000. Other auction items include an honorary first pitch with the Angels and an exclusive first-class experience in Turks & Caicos from Neiman Marcus Fashion Island.

The elegant black-tie event will be set amidst the mystery, spirit and spice of the Orient. A cocktail reception, tribute, dinner, dancing, and live and silent auctions are planned for the evening. Newport Lexus will donate a 2007 Lexus RX400h Hybrid and Toyota of San Juan Capistrano a 2007 Toyota Prius for the evening’s two opportunity drawings. Other noteworthy and magnanimous sponsors include Rob and Lydia Mondavi and Folio Winemaker’s Studio, Level Vodka, and UBS Printing Group.

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