Joy to the Animals Luncheon

On December 4, 2016, I attended the Awards Luncheon for the Actors and Others For Animals non-profit animal organization at the Universal City Hilton an Towers. This organization helps subsidize spay and neutering of low or fixed income individuals in the greater Los Angeles area as well as some financial assistance for emergency veterinary procedures. They also have a pet assisted therapy program where volunteers and their own pets visit hospitals, retirement facilities and convalescent hospitals.

I've gotten these invitations before but have never attended. This year I decided to check it out. Being honored with the Betty White Inspirational Award this year for her work as an animal advocate was Loretta Swit, best known for her acting work on the TV series, M.A.S.H.. To present her with the award were her M.A.S.H. costars, Mike Farrell and Jamie Farr.

Lily Tomlin emceed the event, because they also gave awards to others. The Paul Jolly Award of Caring went to both Laurie and Peter Marshall and to Erin and George Pennacchio for their work in animal rescue.

As you can see from my selfie, my photos did not come out well at all. Especially since I was seated at a table in the back of the room. In fact, the only one that came out at all was of Paula Poundstone as she entertained us. Jay Johnson also entertained us.

The food was vegetarian but quite tasty. The main course was orzo and cheddar cheese croquette, grilled potato cake, lemon and pistachio risotto, and seasoned vegetables. The dessert was cheesecake with a couple of berries on the side.

I had a good time though, talking to the couples on either side of me.