My friend, Derek, called and invited us to an event at which he was performing in Beverly Hills last Sunday. He couldn't give us many details, so we had no idea what we were getting into. If you've read this blog before, you know I'm game for spontaneous outings, especially if it benefits a friend.

This took place at Beverly Hills High (you know, 90210). So, we showed up at 5:00 p.m. as ordered. The show was supposed to start at 5:30, but in typical Southern California fashion, it started later. The audience appeared to be mostly teenagers and some parents scattered here and there. Much to our surprise, the evening
turned out to be quite inspirational.

It was a benefit for the Vahagn Setian Charitable Foundation, set up by the father of a former BH high school student, who was killed by a drunk driver. Karen (there's a mark over the "e") gave a touching speech, warning students about the ills of drinking and driving and drug use. "Believe me, nothing good can come of it."

The first two performers were terrific. A 12-year-old whose vocals and guitar playing were excellent. http://www.jessarae.com/. Carolina Liar is a group of three great singer/musicians, who sang their hit, "Show Me What I'm Looking For." Their music has been featured on many tv shows, including "90210." They also won the "Responsible Artist Award" this night. http://www.carolinaliar.com/.

There was an auction with terrific prizes, ie., two polo lessons at the California Polo Club, Tour of the Playboy Mansion for six, two upcoming Steve Carell Movie Premiers and After-Parties. Following the intermission there was a terrific fashion show. Much to our amazement, the models were not professionals, but high school students. That became clear as the students in the audience cheered and called out their names. The models remained poised and polished.

After the fashion show, there on a large screen were Vahagn's large brown eyes. Then, we heard Derek Bently's voice, singing in Italian, Gira Con Me. He slowly walked down the aisle towards the stage. It was perfect placement in the program. Derek sang it beautifully. The audience loved it.

Apparently, the money raised prior was used to present a two-day event designed to dramatically raise teenagers' awareness of the potentially lethal consequences of drinking alcohol. All the students of BHHS were involved and were encouraged to reflect on personal choices when alcohol is involved. The program challenged participants to make mature decisions and recognize that their actions affect others besides themselves.

The foundation also gave Vahagn Setian Financial Awards to three talented and deserving BHHS seniors, whom teachers and students at the school had nominated. This is a 501(c)(3) foundation as well as classified as a public charity 509(a)(1), which makes all contributions tax-deductible. The Foundations' Federal IN is #20-8057062.

The evening ended with a visual presentation of Vahagn's life, showing his love of music. As his father mentioned,he was an old soul. How many teenagers do you know who know Billie Holiday's music, or Miles Davis' genius.

Looking around the theatre at the audience, and watching these teens interact with one another, it was very refreshing to see the next generation. I left with a good feeling, as well as feeling the father's pain in losing a beloved only child, whose life touched so many.