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Hollywood Invades Costa Rica: Stephanie Powers, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Others Attend Fund-Raiser
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 HOLLYWOOD: In a scene reminiscent of "Fantasy Island," a number of Hollywood celebrities arrived by small planes Saturday at the oceanside town of Quepos, Costa Rica as part of a three-day fund-raiser for the environment.
With the full support of the country's president, Jose Maria Figueres, the Wildlife Preservation Fundraising Weekend and Celebrity Catch & Release Fishing Tournament was organized by The Hollywood-Madison Group (HMG), a Los Angeles-based marketing firm that specializes in celebrity acquisition and endorsements.
"Arriving in Quepos was a surrealistic experience. The local population turned out in droves as did the Costa Rican media. They gave us the "red carpet" treatment, complete with costumed dancers and champagne service. We found the Costa Rican people to be over-flowing with kindness and generosity," says Jonathan Holiff, HMG president.
"Hart to Hart" star and committed environmentalist Stephanie Powers took pleasure in snapping pictures of the locals and, in particular, the paparazzi who were shooting pictures of her. Jonathan Taylor Thomas had a throng of young admirers standing by and was seen dancing with some of the lucky ones.
Other celebrities in attendance, include: James Avery ("Fresh Prince of Bel Air"), Ruben Blades ("The Devil's Own"), George Brett ("Kansas City Royals"), David Chokachi ("Baywatch"), Harry Hamlin ("L.A. Law"), Kelly LeBrock ("Weird Science"), Esai Morales ("La Bamba"), Stephen Stills ("Crosby, Stills & Nash") and Kimberly Williams ("Father of the Bride").
The weekend's activities included a spectacular fundraising dinner and gala at the Herradura Hotel in San Jose on Friday, April 18, followed the next day by a guided tour of Jardin Gaia (the area’s only wildlife rescue center) and Manual Antonio National Park (Costa Rica's renowned rainforest). Guests were treated to the rare release of protected animals and birds, including two hand-raised Howler monkeys.
First-class accommodations were provided by the host, Harry Bodaan, managing partner of the new El Parador Hotel and Beach Club. Located on the Pacific Ocean, this five-star hotel and casino features hundreds of animals roaming on the grounds. On Sunday, guests participated in the first annual Celebrity Catch & Release Fishing Tournament on 20 boats equipped with expert guides and a number of avid fisherman.
For more information, please contact: Jonathan Holiff, (818) 762-8008 Ext. 200 11684 Ventura Blvd., #258Studio City, CA 91604(818) 762-8008 http://www.Hollywood-Madison.com
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