HOLLYWOOD – Those stopping in at the Chuch of Scientology Celebrity Centre International the other night might easily have thought they were at the Emmys, what with Kirstie Alley sharing the stage with the likes of Kelly Preston, Jason Lee, Giovanni Ribisi, Danny Masterson, Erika Christensen, Christopher Masterson, Marisol Nichols, Catherine Bell and Jennifer Aspen. But what was really going on was the 14th Annual "Christmas Stories" fund-raiser for the Hollywood Policy Activities League (PAL).
 | | Kelly Preston was one of the performers raising money for the Police Activities League at the 14th Annual "Christmas Stories" at the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International. |
Performing skits and telling Christmas stories, these stars contributed their talents to support the inner-city youth programs sponsored by Hollywood PAL.
They were joined by special guest performers from Fox's "24" — Mary Lynn Rajskub, Carlo Rota and Eric Balfour; and the CW's "Veronica Mars" — Ryan Hansen and Chris Lowell.
It all took place in a 1930s-style radio show setting and included skits and traditional and original stories and songs.
This annual event has raised over $190,000 for community programs since it began in 1993.
The Police Activities League (PAL) is a nationwide development program operated by police officers who take pride in setting a good example for young people and giving them hands-on help. The program includes educational and recreational activities for at-risk youth who might otherwise fall prey to gang violence, drug use and criminal activities. Over 1,000 Hollywood youth participate in the swimming, street hockey, basketball, martial arts, soccer, computer activities, arts, crafts and educational tutoring they provide.
Hollywood PAL and the Hollywood Division of the L.A.P.D. hold an annual Christmas party in cooperation with the principals of public elementary schools in and around Hollywood. Many of the children who are invited would otherwise have no Christmas celebration at all. PAL provides meals, games and toys (delivered by Santa Claus, of course).
 | Jason Lee "made his debut" as a cat. |
"We present 'Christmas Stories' each year to support our police in their effort to create a safe environment for children in Hollywood," said Maria Ferrara, President of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International. "Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard once said, 'When children become unimportant to a society, that society has forfeited its future.' The Police Athletic League is helping to make the future a bright one for these children, and we wholeheartedly support their work."
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