Probably filed in the “never to be forgotten” part of your brain is that moment when actress Marilyn Monroe stole the show with her breathy rendition of “Happy Birthday, Mr. President.” John F. Kennedy certainly enjoyed it.

Film icon John Forsythe beamed when Rona Barrett and Linda Peckham breathed their imitations of Monroe’s performance into the microphone at his 90th birthday party. It really brought down the house.

Forsythe, with his deep suntan, wavy silver hair and enduring charm, was kept busy trading quips with the guests at the tribute.

The guests joined in the festivities by dressing in red, pink or white to blend into the Valentine theme. There were bowers of flowers, and among the most exotic were Hawaiian flowers from Phil and Nancy Crawford-Hall, who were across the Pacific at their home in Hawaii.

Nicole, John’s wife, who had worked for months to put together the party, was looking pretty in an exotic pink tunic.    

 

     The wonderful thing about a celebrity party is the graciousness of the guests who share their talents. Among the entertainers was actress Cheryl Ladd, who sang “They Say That Falling in Love is Wonderful,” which she performed when playing in “Annie Get Your Gun” on Broadway. Stepping to the microphone, Ladd said, “John, I thank you for your kindness over 30 years of friendship. You are an extraordinary man.” It’s interesting that they played together in “Charlie’s Angels” and are neighbors here in the valley.

Ladd’s handsome husband, Brian Russell, sang “Across the Sea.” He is a writer and composer and knows his way around the kitchen in the preparation of fine food.

Rona Barrett, who was escorted by writer Dan Busby, favored the crowd with her amazing voice (so many talents in such a small package!). Durango Dick Elder sang, too.

He and his wife Ginny flew in for the party. And let’s not forget the exuberant Linda Peckham and her husband John. Her late father, valley resident Len Marshman, had his own band in college, and also a fine voice.

 

Among the many guests were the former agent and Hollywood producer, Lee Rosenberg, and his wife Linda.

Rosenberg soon will have some mind-blowing news about an elegant event at Bridlewood Winery to benefit People Helping People.

Also present was Celeste Huston, who was sparkling with jewels — Cartier all the way. She was accompanied by Kevin Swanson, a craftsman who creates works of art from various types of exotic horn.