Wednesday, February 22, 2012
PRINCESS ANNE, MD-(Feb. 22, 2012)-Actress Melanie Griffith, who was a planned celebrity guest at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Gala, March 3, is unable to attend as production on her current film, “The Hot Flashes,” shooting in New Orleans, has been extended due to inclement weather-an unforeseen conflict.
“Melanie is deeply sorry that she will not be attending the fundraising gala,” her publicist said. “She was honored by the university’s invitation and was looking forward to coming with her mother, actress Tippi Hedren.”
In lieu of attending the event, Griffith and “The Hot Flashes” producers-Nina Henderson-Moore, Susan Seidelman, Brad Hennig and Laurie Lacob-will be donating $20,000. The gift will go toward the UMES Gala Endowment Fund from which scholarships are awarded to students.
“It was, of course, disappointing to hear that Mrs. Griffith’s change in schedule will not permit her to attend the gala,” Dr. Veronique Diriker, director of development at UMES and event coordinator, said. “However, we greatly appreciate the generosity of the gift from her and the producers of ‘The Hot Flashes’ toward the event and our students.”
###
Gail Stephens, assistant director, UMES Office of Public Relations, 410-651-7580, gcstephens@umes.edu.
Bill Robinson, director, UMES Office of Public Relations, 410-621-2355, wrobinson3@umes.edu.
