State Sen. Roslyn Baker, a 32-year cancer survivor and longtime health advocate, will be recognized at the American Cancer Society's annual Boots on the Beach gala Saturday. The 2008 Patti Schuler Recognition Awardee championed a statewide smoking ban.

This weekend's western-themed fundraiser at the Hilton Hawaiian Village features Dita Hollifield and Red Handed, games and a silent auction; it supports the American Cancer Society's online cancer resource center, 24-hour telephone information services in Hawai'i and Guam, a children's camp and other services. Get tickets, $250, or reserve a table by calling 595-7504 or e-mailing gala@cancer.org.

— Treena Shapiro

GINGERBREAD, MAN!

BUILD A DELICIOUS HOUSE AT BLAISDELL

Can't wait to get a whiff of that holiday baking smell? The ninth annual Gingerbread Family Festivals, founded by Alan Wong and Easter Seals, is accepting reservations. On O'ahu, make and take a gingerbread house Dec. 7 at the Blaisdell Center exhibition hall; $39 includes a $20 donation, workspace for up to four, pre-cut gingerbread sheets, icing and candy decorations. The holiday cheer comes with a free photo with Santa Claus; 948-4000 or www.EasterSealsHawaii.org.

— Mary Kaye Ritz

FINAL WORD

"Ideally, I'd like to start playing characters other than myself."

Perez Hilton | celebrity blogger, on his TV guest stints ("Privileged," VH1), in TV Guide