Good Tunes, Greater Cause

'Jazz It Up' benefits ACT for Multiple Sclerosis in Palm Desert

JIM POWERS Arts & Entertainment

The recent death of actress Annette Funicello brought the initials MS back into the national conscious again.

Funicello bravely fought Multiple Sclerosis for more than 20 years before losing her life on April 13.

More than 2.1 million people are affected by the crippling disease worldwide, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society website. However, the number of cases in the U.S. could be much greater because physicians are not required to report cases to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

MS will reap the rewards of a June 30 benefit by ACT for MS in Palm Desert to reach out to afflicted Coachella Valley residents.

Bill Marx, son of Harpo Marx and the last living person to work with the Marx Brothers, will bring his all-star band to headline the fifth annual “Jazz It Up” from 5-8 p.m. June 30 at the Mission Hills Country Club, 34600 Mission Hills Drive, in Rancho Mirage.

There is limited VIP seating still available at $100 per person, in addition to $80 preferred seating and $60 general seating. The price includes wine, beer soft drinks, hor d’oeuvres, a light buffet, tax, tip and a tax deductible donation to ACT for Multiple Sclerosis. A cash bar will also be available.

There will also be a silent auction, and complimentary valet parking.

For reservations, call (760) 773-9806.