KICK-OFF EVENT'S SUCCESS

P.A.C.T.'s CALIFORNIA BARBECUE KICK-OFF EVENT was a major success!  On Saturday, September 14th 2002, "A Night Under the Stars," attracted over 200 attendees -- completely filling the multi-purpose cafeteria room.  Everyone enjoyed eating a delicious rib and chicken dinner and watching TOP-NOTCH performances by Santa Susana High School's students, teachers, alumni and community members.  To see some of these performers, visit PlanetSimi website.

The Masters of Ceremonies, Larry Carroll (broadcast newscaster) and Tom Muenzer (a Santa Susana High School Counselor), provided non-stop humor and entertainment in between each performer's introduction.  TV and film actor Earl Holliman attended and was introduced to the audience, to welcome applause.

The event's highlight was an astounding performance by a CHER Impersonator, Sandra Wood, who absolutely mesmerized the audience.  Below she is seen with Rachelle, an SSHS performing-arts student.

Her uncanny resemblance to the real celebrity, with both the voice and mannerisms to match, caused unbelievable awe from everyone watching and the repeated question... "Is she or isn't she???"  Sandra flawlessly sang a few of Cher's songs, including "Believe."  To find out more about this phenomenal individual, visit her Website.

We were also extremely pleased to have EARL HOLLIMAN attend. Earl’s film, theater and television acting career spans an impressive fifty-year reign, from 1953 to present.  Below is just a sample of his acting credits (visit any of over 3,000 Internet sites for this remarkable man’s expansive list of credits and personal details):     

Since 1976, Earl has also held the prestigious position of President for "Actors and Others for Animals," the well-known organization for animal welfare.  He believes "It’s everyone’s responsibility to inspire, respect and show understanding for all living creatures, focusing on spaying and neutering."  He strongly believes that "overpopulation is the greatest breeder of cruelty." As a result of Earl’s devotion to animals, he stayed two weeks in the Rwandan Rain Forest with primatologist, Dian Fossey. She later wrote about him in her book, "Gorillas in the Mist."

It was an exceptional honor to have both Earl Holliman and Sandra Wood take time out of their busy schedules to be a part of this worthwhile cause.  We hope all Santa Susana High School students will strive for the selflessness, compassion and talent of these two great individuals who joined us.