In Second Year, Billie Awards Go Green

It was one of those benefits, perhaps rare, where the guests overwhelmingly seem passionate about the cause. It was the Women’s Sports Foundation’s Billie awards (so named for organization founder Billie Jean King), which recognize media coverage of women’s sports and activity while raising funds for the foundation—a robust $1.4 million this year. And nibbling on an organic chicken dinner right in the middle of the Don Imus-versus-Rutgers’ women’s basketball controversy, attendees were particularly aligned with the foundation’s efforts.In the event’s second year, the Billies went green—from the all-organic menu and wines and fair-trade coffee service to programs printed on post-consumer recycled paper. (The nonprofit Giant Steps Foundation helped implement the environmentally friendly elements.) The Women’s Sports Foundation’s PR coordinator, Lisa Antonangeli, worked with freelancers Alexandra Grane and Katherine Caulfield to produce the event on April 11 at the Beverly Hilton, and Bradley Pickelsimer of SESP Productions designed it. Cosponsor ESPN produced the event’s video content, which included sports footage from the network’s coverage. After the last winner picked up the last award, King’s longtime friend Elton John performed a nearly hourlong set for the crowd.

—Alesandra Dubin

Posted 04.18.07

Photos: Getty Images