Last night, The Heart Foundation honored Mike Meldman with a performance by Adam Levine and a roast by Chelsea Handler, Cindy Crawford and Irving Azoff. Also in attendance were Jon Bon Jovi, George Hamilton, Jane Fonda, Mary Hart, Molly Simms and husband Scott Stuber, Rande Gerber, David Allen Grier, Alana Stewart, Robert Shapiro, Burt Sugarman, Peter Farrelly, Ben Silverman, William Lauder, Steve Bing, Jerry Weintraub’s family, and world-renowned cardiologist P.K. Shah, M.D.
The Heart Foundation honored Discovery Land Company’s Mike Meldman at its intimate 20th Anniversary Event. Sponsored by Casamigos Tequila, the event took place at Ron Burkle’s Green Acres Estate in Beverly Hills and entertained more than 300 with an evening full of special guest performances, signature Casamigos Tequila cocktails, and a spirited dedication to the cause.
The Heart Foundation increases awareness of heart disease and supports research at Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute under the direction of world-renowned cardiologist P.K. Shah, M.D. The foundation was established in memory of Steven S. Cohen who, although outwardly the picture of health, lost his life to a sudden heart attack at the age of 35 leaving behind a wife and two young daughters. The Heart Foundation’s Steven S. Cohen Humanitarian Award is presented to individuals who effect change within their communities and demonstrate a commitment to the betterment of humankind. This year, Mike Meldman was acclaimed for embodying the spirit of Steven Cohen through his work to improve the lives of children and families across the globe. The evening included a special tribute to Jerry Weintraub, the late talent agent, concert promoter, film producer and actor who was a long-time friend and mentor of Meldman. Previous honorees include Wolfgang Puck, Berry Gordy, Kirk and Anne Douglas, Norman R. Brokaw, Marshall Ezralow, and Kimberly and Prediman Krishan (P.K.) Shah, M.D.
An event unlike any other, guest attire was “Meldman casual,” as requested by the honoree, with heart-healthy fair balanced with Mike’s favorite comfort foods and treats. Guests were served family style with abundant options including a seafood tower, and several food stations with sliders, wood-fire pizza, fresh fruits and classic desserts. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails such as the Meldman Margarita and Casamigos Pom Margarita – inspired by Meldman’s own Casamigos Tequila brand.
Maroon 5’s frontman Adam Levine along with bandmate James Valentine performed an intimate concert, while Chelsea Handler, Irving Azoff and David Allen Grier roasted Meldman with sportscaster Joe Buck and Mary Hart as emcees. Meldman’s close friend Burt Sugarman provided heart-warming insight into Mike’s humanitarian spirit. Festivities continued late into the evening with tracks spun by DJ Michelle Pesce.
This epic evening was a major success for The Heart Foundation, a phenomenal contribution to a cause so close to the heart of numerous individuals throughout Los Angeles, and beyond. Hashtag #theheartfoundation to be part of the conversation and help spread awareness about heart disease (the #1 cause of death for both men and women in the United States.)
Fun Items from the evening:
The evening style was in typical “Meldman casual” where the Mcee, Sportscaster Joe Buck roasted Meldman on not dressing up for the event by wearing his Casamigos t-shirt. Joe Buck said that Ron Burkle’s estate was like a petting zoo with animals like Kardashians and Kate Hudson. While the crowd laughed, Buck said he facetimed with Hudson after he made the joke and she found it hilarious.
Roaster Chelsea Handler joked that no one knows what Meldman’s tequila was.
Mike was presented with a secret gift (autographed guitar) from Grateful Dead guitarist Bob Weir via a video message that talent manager Bernie Cahill presented to Mike (he played a song for Mike in the video on that same guitar.)
Maroon 5’s frontman Adam Levine along with bandmate James Valentine performed an intimate concert and during their set toasted with Casamigos tequila in shot glasses donated by Moser.
Festivities continued late into the evening with tracks spun by DJ Michelle Pesce.