Most of the events I photograph are weddings, but I recently got a call from Rabbi Chaim Mentz of Bel Air looking for an event photographer to capture his 50th Birthday Party and Chabad of Bel Air’s 24th Anniversary at the stunning Beverly Hills Hotel. It was an evening of celebration, toasting, comedy, dancing and festivities. I was thrilled to meet singer and American Idol sensation Paula Abdul, too. Mazal Tov to you, Rabbi Mentz! 
“There is only one of you in the world, just one. And if that is not fulfilled, then something has been lost.” -Martha Graham
One of the things I love about my job is that I get introduced to so many fascinating people. Earlier this year while doing a children’s portrait session, I was talking to the mom, Alex Paschal, and she was telling me about her work at a non-profit called Villa Esperanza Services. Villa Esperanza is a charity that serves children and adults with developmental disabilities and vulnerable at-risk adults in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. They run quite a few programs, including educational services for children with autism and Down syndrome, adult vocational programs and programs for seniors living with developmental disabilities.
She had mentioned an upcoming silent auction and so I ended up donating a portrait session for Villa Esperanza’s 21st Annual Tournament of Hope. Although I’m not sure how much my portrait session went for, I found out that the event raised a total of $165,000! In this economy, that’s quite an accomplishment!
