YOUTH WILL BE SERVED

The median age of the general population keeps getting higher and the baby boomers are starting to move out of middle age, so St. Louis now looks for the leaders of tomorrow in today's young professionals. This week is set up as a benefit week, with several organizations currying support in the youthful quarter. For years the tried-and-true method of raising money and expanding nonprofit groups' mailing lists has been to throw a party with light cocktailing and a favorite local band playing, and this week is no different: "Fill every glass, for wine inspires ..."

On Friday, July 23, you have a choice of supporting the HotHouse Theatre Company at their HotHouse Happy Hour fundraiser for the 1999-2000 performance season or attending the fundraising celebration for the Arts and Education Council's programs, A Midsummer Night's Drink, held at Grant's Farm with live music by Fairchild.

Christmas comes early as the St. Patrick Center hosts its annual Christmas in July party on Saturday, July 24, with local-music pillar Ralph Butler playing until midnight in the Mahler Ballroom, helping raise funds for the Center's programs for the poor and homeless. Not far away is what may be the best (albeit most expensive) shindig of the weekend, a benefit party for the Arthritis Foundation, held at the Sheldon Concert Hall, called Three for All. This celebration begins with a performance by the Courthouse Steps, breaks for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, then resumes with a performance by Otis Day and the Knights, followed by dancing in the upstairs ballroom to the music of the Mighty Big Band. Of course, if you don't feel like being cooped up indoors, there's always the Young Democrats Luau, which will benefit Young Democrat programs and honor the work of local elected officials, candidates and young leaders.

See the "Special Events" section of "Calendar" for further details on these parties.