by Careen Hutchinson
Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala celebrated two of the entertainment industry’s icons. The indomitable Quincy Jones and gifted Sir Michael Caine both celebrated their 80th birthday earlier this year and were the honored guests of the Keep Memory Alive Gala that was held at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas on April 13. The gala was a combined celebration of Jones’ and Caine’s birthdays, recognition their lifetime of achievements in the entertainment industry and fundraiser for the ClevelandClinicLouRuvoCenter for Brain Health. The center focuses on fighting against neurodegenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s and Parkinson diseases, multiple sclerosis, ALS and memory disorders of all kinds, testing new treatment as well as support for caregivers.
The star-studded event was attended by some of entertainment’s and media’s biggest names. The Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala saw a mix of cross-generational celebrities like Stevie Wonder, Jennifer, Chaka Khan, Chris Tucker, Greg Phillinganes, Herbie Hancock, James Ingram, Jordan Sparks, Marcus Miller, Nikki Yanofsky, Patti Austin, Paulino Da Costa, Rashida Jones, Larry King, Siedah Garrett, Whoopi Goldberg, Will.i.am, Snoop dogg (aka Snoop Lion) Tom Scott, Will Smith, Bono, Amy Poehler, Arsenio Hall, Bebe Winans, and Carlos Santana. Part of the night’s entertainment highlight was served up by comedian Chris Tucker and Stevie Wonder led the attendees in wishing Quincy Jones and Micheal Caine by performing “Happy Birthday” which was later followed by the renowned anthem of humanitarian aid, We are the World”. Whoopi Goldberg also gave a nostalgically moving remarks.
This year’s Power of Love Gala showcased a celebrity chef packed dinner which was prepared by world renowned award winning chef Gordon Ramsey. Guests were treated to a Dom Perignon reception. Silent as well as live auctions allowed guests to bid on items which included an 11 day Mediterranean cruise and a Baltimore Ravens 2013 NFL signed football helmet . For the first time in its history, donors from across the country were able to contribute to the charity through text-to-donate campaign. Anyone wishing to contribute to the Keep Memory Alive campaign to support brain health research, can do so by texting “MEMORY” to 80888 to give $10. This text-to-donate campaign will be opened through the end of this year.
For more information about Cleveland Clinic’s fight against brain disease, visit www.clevelandclinic.org/brainhealth
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