R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A.
The theme for Friday’s YouthAIDS Gala at the Ritz Carlton Tysons Corner is “The Power of Music,” but organizers had been quiet about who would carry that message as the featured entertainer.
Finally, late last week, they let it be known that John Mellencamp would entertain the crowd at the event, traditionally one of the city’s top annual black-tie affairs. They remained mum, however, on whether the famously outspoken Mellencamp will keep his numerous political opinions to himself only five weeks before a momentous presidential election.
Also expected at the gala: Sir Bob Geldof, Sharon Osbourne, Annie Lennox, MTV Networks CEO Judy McGrath, YouthAIDS Global Ambassador Ashley Judd, Sheila Johnson, Miss Universe Dayana Mendoza and Anna Kournikova.
And the high-rollers are sure to have their wallets open, because the auction items are impressive. One package offers transport to Florida on a private G5 jet to play golf with major champions Ernie Els and Ian Baker-Finch. Among the others: a two-week trip to China, a week stay at the Ritz Carlton Dubai, lunch with Judd and tennis lessons with Kournikova.
