Valley Stars Take Center Stage at Upcoming Valley Economic Alliance Gala

SHERMAN OAKS, Calif., July 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The San Fernando Valley's brightest stars will take center stage at the 14th annual Valley of the Stars Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, July 23, 2011 at the new world-class Valley Performing Arts Center on the campus of California State University, Northridge. Hosted by The Valley Economic Alliance (VEA), the region's premier economic development organization, the event will celebrate leadership in arts and entertainment, business, education and humanitarianism.

"Since its founding in 1998, the annual gala has fast become one of the most prestigious events of its kind in our region," said VEA President and CEO Ron L. Wood. "With great pride, we honor individuals and organizations that have helped grow and strengthen our economy, improve the quality of life in our communities, and bring national recognition to the San Fernando Valley."

The following recipients will be honored with "Stars of the Valley" awards by category:

Arts & Entertainment—Cheech Marin, a native of the San Fernando Valley, is a highly respected actor, director, writer, musician, art collector and humanitarian.

Business—Curb Records operates as one of the most successful independent record labels in the U.S. and supports charitable programs under the leadership of its founder Mike Curb, a philanthropist and former lieutenant governor of California.

Education—Jim Berk, CEO of Participant Media, made an electrifying call to action with the 2010 landmark documentary "Waiting for Superman" that analyzes the failures of American public education through following the lives of students.

Humanitarian—David Fleming, a prominent attorney, is a devoted civic and philanthropic leader who has demonstrated a deep commitment to the San Fernando Valley and served as a trusted advisor to elected officials at the city, state and federal levels.

Special Recognition—The new Valley Performing Arts Center located on the campus of California State University, Northridge is a hub for culture and performing arts in the region and serves as the intellectual and cultural heart of the San Fernando Valley.

Starting at 6 p.m., the Valley Performing Arts Center lobby will provide a stunning backdrop for guests to enjoy a red carpet reception, followed by award presentations in the theatre at 7:30 p.m. and dinner under the stars in the courtyard at 8:30 p.m. Well-known for his sense of humor, NBC4 weathercaster Fritz Coleman will serve as master of ceremonies.

For more information, call The Valley Economic Alliance at 818.379.7000 or visit www.thevalley.net.

About The Valley Economic Alliance

The Valley Economic Alliance (VEA) is a non-profit economic development organization founded in 1994 to connect businesses with the resources and leadership of the San Fernando Valley.  Its mission is to strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life in the Valley's five-city region: Burbank, Calabasas, Glendale, Los Angeles and San Fernando. VEA provides free professional business assistance, workforce training, networking opportunities and information resources.  Visit www.thevalley.net or call (818) 379-7000 for more information.

SOURCE The Valley Economic Alliance