The 29th Chase Gala 2023

The 29th Steve Chase Gala was held at the Jackie Lee Houston Plaza and the street in front of the Palm Springs Convention Center. The road was blocked off, and several tables were placed there. I saw that the cut-off for attendance was at 900 but was told later it was 1000 people attending. Guests walked a Blue Carpet into the gala setting— guests who wanted their photos taken on entry. Self Parking and Valet parking were provided.

An extensive cocktail reception was held in the lobby of the Convention Center. Silent auction items were on display for bidding. Guests mingled and greeted old friends. Appetizers were served, and several bar areas created refreshments. Guests found tables where they were served a box, Bon Appetit Al Freso, dinner of Vegan or salads, Beef Tenderloin and Salmon, plus a dessert. Great way to do so many in an outdoor setting, and it was delicious. The gala had a different feel this year as last year was scorching, and this year was very cool.DAP cared for its guests by handing out blankets to keep them warm. DAP CEO David Brinkman said DAP was the first Covid Clinic in the Valley. They see a crisis and act. They provide access to anyone in need of health care or assistance in any way. They continue to grow with new buildings, new housing, and now the purchase of Borrego Clinic to serve the eastern Valley with healthcare.

A video was shown of people whom DAP has helped. They turned their lives around with their help. They said that if you donate, you are investing in a person’s life. They are success stories that happen every day at DAP. They noted that DAP was a friendly, warm, welcoming place that offered help without judging. A live auction was held, and the paddle rose for donations. Some people matched donations, and the area was lit with red lights for people bidding. They raised 1.4 million last year and wanted to raise more this year.

Two thousand twentythree honorees were Fashion Icon and Humanitarian; Donna Karan was given the 2023 DAP Health Equity Award. In addition, Conrado E. Barzaga, MD, and Desert Health Care District and Foundation were awarded the 2023 DAP Health Humanitarian Award. Michael Urie, SAG Award Nominee, was the Host.

Darren Criss, Emmy and Golden Globe winner, was the headliner. Guests performers Nick Adams, Broadway Star, and Saycon Sengbloh, a Tony Award nominee, sang to the guests’ delight. Co-chairs were Kevin Bass, Lauri Kirby, and Scott Nevins. Donna Karan spoke about our country is being divided, but here she saw unity. She talked about Urban Zen which she created, and her passions in life. Congressman Raul Ruiz awarded Barzaga, MD, and Desert Health Care the award. An after-party with DJ Modgirl followed.