Features Over $60,000 Raised at Carnegie Hall Reception Pictures from the Carnegie Hall Reception Meet 2000 Fellow Soheil Meshinchi It All Adds Up Dottie Says... A word from Dottie Thomas Other News: Seeking Sponsors Our Apologies… Fun Shopping José Carreras 2000 US Appearances

Thanks are the subject for this column, as there are so many people who contributed to the success of the Carnegie Hall reception (see page one). First, of course, a very warm thank you to Diane Sturiale, whose idea it was in the first place. Her determination, energy and charm were necessary to put together an event of this size and scope. Second, and really, a tie for first, is Dr. James Bianco and his Seattle-based biotech company, Cell Therapeutics Inc.— cti as it is known here. Jim came to Seattle from his hometown, New York, in 1987, as a fellow in Oncology at the University of Washington and a member of the Hutchinson Center. He was one of the attending physicians who took care of Mr. Carreras during his stay in Seattle for the marrow transplant. He remained an active member of the Seattle marrow transplant team for until 1992, when he when he became president and CEO of cti. Cti is a young but very active company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of small molecule drugs that selectively regulate lipids relevant to the treatment of cancer.

Jim is an ardent opera fan, so his doctor-patient relationship with Mr. Carreras was excellent. When your phone call to cti must be put on hold for a brief period you are greeted with lovely arias from Puccini, Verdi and other opera greats. The Bianco’s oldest child is Luciano, but I believe Jim’s wife rebelled at naming the next two Placido and José. Cti’s generous contribution insured that the profits from the reception would all come to the Friends. Susan Moore, a senior cti staff member, assisted in setting up the photography and many other arrangements for the reception.

Other thanks must go to the artist of the beautiful oil painting of José, Ms. Ann Hartquist, which brought in an additional $10,000. Arcade Music Co., Espana, graciously donated 200 CDs of the Concert del Centenari that José sang in Barcelona for the Futbol Club Barcelona. This CD contains a beautiful mixture of Catalan, Spanish and other songs, some of which are not generally available. The CDs were a gift to each guest.

So, to all of those who helped make this event possible, a hearty thanks. The profits were more than sufficient to cover one fellowship, which is especially helpful since the Friends Board voted to fund two new fellowships this year. Thanks, also, to all of those who attended the reception. You are indeed our FRIENDS.

Dottie Thomas is Treasurer of the Friends’ Board.