An Evening In Paris

The face of HIV/AIDS has certainly changed since the early days of the disease. Back then, rampant fear and misinformation dominated the landscape and a diagnosis meant certain death.

Those bleak events and outcomes are no longer the norm, but the work is certainly not over. As Chris Bragg, Chief Development Officer at Orange County AIDS Services Foundation (OCASF) explained, "In the early years of our existence there was not much OCASF could do except help people die with dignity. Thankfully, the development of life-saving medication has made it possible for people living with HIV to live long, healthy lives."

OCASF has also come a long way, as has the survival rate and treatments for AIDS, though as Bragg opined, the challenges continue. "Over the last 31 years we have identified barriers that may prevent an individual living with HIV from accessing the life-saving care they deserve. We have developed programs and services that break down those barriers so every man, woman and child has an opportunity to live a long, healthy, productive life."

He continued, "We still have work to do-it's here-it's in our community. Yes, we've made incredible strides, but this battle is not yet over. About 7,000 people are living with HIV disease in Orange County, and we are seeing six new infections per week. OCASF seeks to end the AIDS epidemic for men, women and children in Orange County through HIV prevention, linkage to care and treatment, while eliminating the stigma of AIDS."

As you might realize, these life-saving efforts come with a price. To support them, OCASF has many fundraisers that allow supporters to lend a hand and at the same time, encouraging them to know others who have the same intent and to have some fun as they do so. "An Evening in Paris" is the latest incarnation of their most successful event and organizer Larry Will told The Rage Monthly a little about what to expect. "This is OCASF's biggest fundraiser of the year. It is a celebration of all those who have helped to make the work OCASF does possible. Attendees can expect an evening of Parisian-inspired dining and entertainment."

When asked about what prompted the choice of 2017's Parisian theme and the high-tech new venue, he offered this: "The chance to re-invent this three-decade old event and to make the event fun and exciting! We hope this will inspire people to become better acquainted with each other and the services OCASF provides."

The venue, [AV] Irvine is considered one of Orange County's "hottest meeting and event destinations," built specifically to house events such as this. Of its selection, Will offered this: "We chose the venue because it was high-tech, modern, innovative, and large enough to accommodate our growing guest list." A fact that [AV] Irvine owners are very proud of, boasting that the venue is "Synonymous with technology, featuring an incredible 30-foot LED wall, state-of- the-art sound and lighting."

As for what attendees might expect from the evening, Larry Will offered these tidbits, "We will have a wide variety of entertainers who have performed internationally, to surprise, delight and entertain our guests." Excellent dining and libations are an important part of these events and per Will, this evening will be no exception. "The dinner will be catered by 24 Carrots, Orange County's premier catering firm and we will be presenting the meal in a jazz supper club setting."

Now for my favorite part, the auctions: One silent and one live! Will spoke about the selection of items featured, "Our silent auction includes a variety of experiences, high-end items and one-of-a-kind art pieces. This includes a 1960s American Classic Car Rental in Palm Springs, a Porsche watch, BBQ Dinner for 20 and much more!" He added, "Our Live Auction items are truly priceless, they include a Kate Spade Shopping Experience, a nine-course dinner at Wilcox Manor for 12, a Cooking Class for 10 with Chef Debbie Maro of Wood Grill, a "Breakfast at Tiffany's" in South Coast Plaza and a trip to Paris for two; including round-trip business class tickets!"

Mon dieu! A battle for that one, I predict!

An Evening in Paris takes place on Saturday, January 21 at [AV] Irvine, 16500 Scientific Way in Irvine. For tickets and more information, go to ocasf.org/annual-gala.html