A perfect story line for ‘The O.C.’

Car dealer superstar Fletcher Jones, of Newport Beach, is in the

society news this week spreading financial support coupled with media

awareness in support of two very divergent causes: AIDS and the

Orange County Museum of Art Children’s Art Education Foundation.

Jones, namesake of Fletcher Jones Motorcars, sponsored a summer

gala at the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel that attracted more than 800

locals. The wild and crazy summer bash was titled “Decadence: The

Ultimate O.C. Indulgence.” Given recent TV buzz over the new drama

“The O.C.” on the Fox network, the “decadence” and “indulgence”

description may be getting more play than desired.

Nevertheless, let’s face the truth. We live in a very special

place, and along with all the good deeds and many blessings, there is

also plenty of high living.

Enough philosophizing. The important connection is that out of the

high living often comes giving. The more than 800 people enjoying

this evening under the stars raised six-figure sums for two worthy

causes.

On hand to help host the evening was Garth Blumenthal, Fletcher

Jones general manager.

“This inaugural fund-raising event will help two important

community organizations,” Blumenthal said. “We are delighted to lend

our support.”

It’s all about business working with the community to assist

charity. Maybe that would make a good story line on “The O.C.”

OK, if that’s not enough, Frank Groff, publicist for Fletcher

Jones, said that in keeping with the “best of the best in life” style

that is the Newport image, Jones is teaming up with Wahoo’s to host

the “Ultimate Mercedes Benz Weekend.”

Actually, it’s a contest for the end of summer. Folks may enter,

with no purchase required, at all 14 Orange County Wahoo’s Fish Taco

locations from Costa Mesa to San Clemente. The entry deadline is

Sept. 14.

Here’s what the ultimate weekend includes: the use of a new

supercharged Mercedes Benz SLK Roadster, accommodations for two at

the new Balboa Bay Club Hotel and $1,000 spending cash.

This is a definite “O.C.” story line.

* THE CROWD appears Thursdays and Saturdays.