Pierce BrosnanPierce and Keely Brosnan have devoted much of their lives to promoting the interests of precious things that are rare and endangered. They recently hosted an event “Roots & Shoots” to benefit the Jane Goodall Wildlife Research Institute, and another fundraiser to help save old-growth trees. The Brosnan’s reputation as environmental and political activists is well established, and in this vein, they hosted a reception for California State Senator Liz Figueroa, who is running for Lieutenant Governor in 2006.

As a member of the Environmental Quality Committee, Senator Figueroa has worked hard with organizations like the Sierra Club to protect our environment and to clean up California’s beaches and waterways. Although she appears to be petite and sweet, she is one tough lady. We can thank her for overcoming fierce corporate lobby to secure passage of California’s anti-telemarketing “Do Not call” program; as well as single-handedly starting a nationwide HMO reform movement.

for Senator Liz FigueroaWe met the feisty Senator in the tree laden Brentwood gardens of Holly Brooks, who is a close friend of the Brosnans. And we agree with their statement: “Figueroa is a precious California resource deserving of our heartfelt thanks and support to be California’s next Lieutenant Governor.”

The master of malapropos, comedian Norm Crosby celebrated his 40th anniversary in show business at the renowned Friars club in Beverly Hills. The event also commemorated the release of “The World’s Greatest Stand up comedy Collection” which is now available at stores around the country. This comedy boxed DVD set stars comic legends and headliner, past and present, including Jay Leno, Arsenio Hall, Buddy Hackett, Milton Berle, Phyllis Diller and Don Rickles to name a few.

& Norm Crosby at Friars ClubSome of the celebs who came to support Crosby included Red Buttons, Gary Owens, Lou Ferrigno and Loni Anderson, who seems to be ageless. Best wishes to Crosby, who is one of the nicest guys in the business.

In keeping the with theme – “the show must go on” – The Center Theater Group raised more than $500,000 when the Beverly Hilton Hotel experienced a 45 minute power failure. Averting what could have been a disaster; the affluent crowed, gathered to honor philanthropists Barbara Fodor, Lillian and Jon Lovelace, took it all in stride and dined in semi darkness. Undeterred show producer, Chuck Fries, creatively scrounged up a bullhorn to replace the disabled sound system, and the show went on as planned. Brava to CTG President Diane Kessler and her hard working committee for overcoming obstacles to support a great cause on the Hollywood Beat.