The Erotic Networks (TEN) will host the launch party for Breast Awareness Benefits Everyone (BABE) on April 29 at the Bergman-Turner Galleries, where Timothy Greenfield-Sanders’ “XXX: 30 Porn Star Portraits” gallery remains on display.
BABE is a new non-profit organization designed to raise money for breast cancer prevention and awareness. It is asking for support from the adult industry as its primary source of funding for upcoming research projects. BABE will fund research grants for basic, clinical and breast cancer research, innovative projects in the areas of breast health education, and breast cancer screening and treatment.
TEN plans to invite Greenfield-Sanders and the people featured in the book, as well as celebrities from the worlds of adult entertainment, music and films to the event.
Marcia Hrichison, a breast cancer survivor, founded BABE.
“I became involved with this because three or four years ago I discovered I had breast cancer, and in the midst I had mastectomy and went through chemotherapy,” Hrichison said. “You become aware of many thing in the breast cancer world, and aware of the fund-raising events and research. … I found there wasn’t anything sexy about it. We’re talking about breasts, which are a very, very sexy thing, so I thought why can’t we do something fun and sexy and get in touch with the people who really love breasts and appreciate breasts and get them involved in raising money to keep women healthy and happy.”
Hrichison, whose background is in entertainment and music, said she decided to target the adult industry with her message.
“I said, ‘I need to get in touch with the male-oriented industry and let them get involved with this,’” she said. “I wanted to do something different and edgy and I wanted it to be fun and I wanted it to be about breasts.”
She told AVN.com that introducing BABE against the backdrop of the “XXX: 30 Porn Star Portraits” gallery was “a perfect blend.”
Veteran adult publicist Brian Gross is one of the individuals involved in growing the grassroots organization.
“My mom’s mother passed away of breast cancer, so obviously, it has struck my family, and it is also something that’s been in my circle of friends and family. So this is an opportunity for the industry to reach out in such a positive way, something hopefully everyone in the industry can get around and support and make a difference,” Gross said. “We’re looking to raise money and raise awareness in a fun manner, where we don’t put a sad light on breasts. This is an industry where it’s all about the breasts, so why not try to save them, and give our time and money and efforts to save them.”
The event, sponsored by XXX Vodka and Rocken Wagner restaurant, will be from 6:30 to 10 p.m. BABE is asking for a $30 donation from the general public at the door. For more information, call 310.662.4777 or visit www.babe-a-rella.org after Monday.
