Past Fundraisers
Since 2018, BurlyCares has been raising money and support for Burlesque and Variety Show Legends in need. Take a look at our impact below.
Burlesque Legend Toni Elling “Satin Doll”
Toni Elling (born Rosita Sims, c. 1929), also known by her stage name Satin Doll, is an American burlesque dancer. Elling was born in Detroit to Joseph and Myrtle Sims, the eldest of three children. She was unhappy with her job as a telephone operator at the Michigan Bell Telephone Company where she had worked for 9 years, because she could not get promoted because she was an African-American. She got into burlesque dancing in 1960 when she was 32 years old after a friend suggested she get into stripping, and continued performing until the early 1970s. She took her name from her friend and confidant, bandleader Duke Ellington. She was also friends with Sammy Davis Jr. and fighter Joe Louis. Elling retired in 1974.
BurlyCares is proud to have assisted this amazing woman and legend. She was the first legend BurlyCares was able to help, with a donation of a deluxe walker!
Past Fundraisers for Individual Legends
Burlesque Legend Camille 2000
Shortly before the yearly burlesque extravaganza hosted by the Burlesque Hall of Fame in Las Vegas, BurlyCares was informed that legend Camille 2000 would not be able to attend the weekender without much needed portable oxygen. Camille was also in need of a specific type of portable 02 machine, one that was also compliant with TSA and airline guidelines. BurlyCares worked diligently with Camille and her caregiver’s to assure her attendance at the weekender. This was also a very special year for Camille, in that she was named Legend of the Year and would perform on the Friday night Legends Showcase Show.
With perseverance and determination BurlyCares was able to locate and donate the funds needed to rent the oxygen equipment Camille needed to attend the 2019 Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender. BurlyCares also assured throughout the weekend that the equipment continued to work effectively and Camille had the medical supplies and equipment she needed. Camille’s performance and weekend was more than legendary!
BurlyCares and Legend Fannie Annie
Burlesque and variety arts legend Fannie Annie is a legend unlike any other. Fannie’s success and fame being coined “The Largest Showgirl” broke barriers. She paved the way and broke the mold on acceptable performer body types. Fannie was an amazing performer and entertainer. Fannie began her career performing with the traveling circus. She had fond memories of her traveling circus days and caring for elephants. Fannie then began to execute a persona and a one-woman show. With a tagline like “450 pounds of pure sizzling sex,” Fannie Annie makes it high on the list of burlesque inspiration. Fannie traveled the world performing for decades. Through her travels is formed close friendships that lasted a lifetime with burlesque legend Dixie Evans, the Marilyn Monroe of Burlesque and Golden Girls star Bea Arthur. She never let her bounteous curves and Amazonian height keep her in the corner, landing film credits in ‘Miami Vice’ and ‘Porky’s’. Described by critics in her ’70s and ’80s heyday as “too much,” Fannie Annie was known to pack a nightclub faster than the smaller gals. “I never think about being thin,” said Annie to newspapers in 1977. “When you know you are money by being big, how could you want to be thin?”
BurlyCares worked closely with Fannie and followed up with her after surgery, providing medical supplies and referrals, a move and donations of a special deluxe walker, one that is tall enough for her height. Fannie also helped to have founded BurlyCares when she voiced her concerns of many legends not having the resources available to meet basic needs at times. Her care and passion for burlesque and variety arts legends continues today through BurlyCares.
UPDATE JUNE 2020!
It is with great thanks and relief that BurlyCares has raised a total of $4,513.79 for the legendary Fannie Annie. This comes at time when BurlyCares co-founder is in great need. BurlyCares superseded the goal of $4000.00 we set! We are also beyond relieved to announce that Fannie has had all that she needs during this time. This has ensured her comfort when it is needed the most. Once again, YOUR donations have made all of this possible! This fundraiser has been another tremendous success and collaboration of the burlesque community! Below is a breakdown of the amount of money raised and the allocation of money spent to assist Fannie.
Total amount raised for “A Call to Action for BurlyCares Co-Founder Fannie Annie as of July 13, 2020: $4,389.37
Specialty Medical Supplies and Personal Protective Equipment: $1718.43
In-Home Caregiver Assistance Costs: $937.50
End of Life/Memorial Costs: $1733.44
Fundraiser Remaining Balance as of July 13, 2020: $0
Fannie Annie and BurlyCares are incredibly thankful to all who have donated to her. This fundraiser was a true call to action and it was a total success! For those that would still like to contribute to Fannie, any remaining balance and additional money raised for her will be put directly towards her continued memorial fund. This fund will continue to preserve her legacy and archives. When donating to Fannie please indicate in your donation “For: A Call to Action for Fannie Annie”. Click on either heart below to donate today!
BurlyCares and Legend Gypsy Louise
Burlesque legend Gypsy Louise has always been a wonderfully supportive burlesque legend. Her burlesque name was inspired by the great Gypsy Rose Lee, one of the great pioneers of the burlesque genre. ‘Louise’ being Gypsy Rose’s legal middle name. Gypsy Louise danced often in the 1970’s and speaks fondly of her days dancing regularly and how she was first introduced to the world of burlesque. In recent year Gypsy has danced in the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender Showcase and in many of the local Las Vegas shows and fundraiser’s.
Gypsy Louise has faced some serious health conditions over the past few years and has fallen in between programs, assistance and rehab; especially now given the pandemic. She most recently experienced a car accident where she will need to raise money to pay her car insurance deductible and medical bills associated with the accident. Thankfully, Gypsy was not seriously injured, but she will need additional care and assistance over the next few months. Gypsy has and continues to be a wonderful support to the Las Vegas burlesque community and has always helped others
BurlyCares has had the pleasure of helping this legend not only once but twice. In August of 2019 BurlyCares put on a fundraiser show to raise some money post surgery for her and most recently with a refrigerator after hers suddenly stopped working. Gypsy expressed much gratitude in BurlyCares being able to help. Gypsy will continue to support the Las Vegas community with her wonderful performances and love!
Permanent Housing & Essential Needs for Legend Madame E!
Madame started working in Honolulu in the 1970’s as a topless go-go dancer. She soon moved up with the big girls at Hubba Hubba, Honolulu’s premiere burlesque strip club during this time. She then travelled to Guam, Los Angeles and Las Vegas performing her amazing acts at a variety of clubs. Later she studied belly dance and performed this artform for many years all around the West Coast. It was during this time that Madame then discovered the neo-burlesque movement. She met and spoke with Dixie Evans, who wrote her a beautiful letter, welcoming her to the burlesque legend family. Madame has also performed at the Burlesque Hall of Fame Weekender and has since become a mentor for up-and-coming neo-burlesque performers. In her most recent years, she has been a part of the Golden Legends Championship Challenge.
We are proud to announce the total in monetary collections for Madame E is currently $1755.00! In addition, Madame received direct furniture and housing appliance donations valued in the amount of $7,575.00!
Keep Coby Yee’s Legacy Alive!
BurlyCares received the very unfortunate news that burlesque and Grant Avenue Follies legend Coby Yee recently passed away. But as many of us that knew Coby, she would not want us to be sad in her passing, but rather carry on her amazing legacy.
“Coby was known as ‘China’s Most Daring Dancing Doll’. She began dancing in the 1940’s and became a mainstay in Asian nightclubs, particularly Charlie Low’s Forbidden City in San Francisco. She performed all over the country throughout the 1950’s and 1960’s, and eventually bought Forbidden City in 1962. She ran the club until its’ closing in 1970. Coby was also an avid seamstress and designed elaborate costumes for many performers.
In the last couple of years Coby and her partner Stephen traveled and performed in Cuba, Shanghai and Las Vegas with the Grant Avenue Follies. She did her last public performance at Clarion Performing Arts Center’s Firecracker Burlesque to the delight of her fans. Coby received the Legend of the Year 2020 award from the Burlesque Hall of Fame. Sadly, she passed away on the night of August 14, less than 24 hours before she was to be virtually honored. Coby was 93.”
Coby’s daughter Shari has asked that all monetary donations in honor of Coby go to Clarion Performing Arts Center, a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) organization. The amount collected will be administered by the Grant Avenue Follies to pay artists in future burlesque shows at the Clarion Performing Arts Center.
A Call to Action From the “Queen of the Amazons”, Marinka!
The BurlyCares Fundraiser A Call to Action From the “Queen of the Amazons” Marinka was not only a great success but it was also the most successful fundraiser BurlyCares has hosted to date! BurlyCares is absolutely thrilled to announce that all of Marinka’s end of life requests were granted and that her final days were made optimally comfortable, safe and with amazing staff and volunteers that she loved dearly.
BurlyCares is proud to announce that we surpassed our goal to raise $5000 for Marinka and raised a grand total of $7,964.98! Below is a breakdown of the amount of money raised and the allocation of money spent to assist Marinka.
Total amount raised: $7,964.98
Daytime Private CNA Care – $726
Medical Supplies & Over the Counter Medications – $331.97
Medical Equipment – $57.08
Eve/Overnight Private CNA Care – $392
Private RN & Case Management Care – $3,978.50
Additional After Life Costs/Memorial Preservation (forwarded to family) – $2,479.43
Fundraiser Balance as of 3/25/21 – $0
Marinka’s family and BurlyCares are incredibly thankful to all who have donated to her. For those that would still like to contribute to Marinka’s Memorial, any additional money raised for her will be given directly to her family to assist in continuing her legacy, as well as other projects Marinka wished to complete prior to her untimely passing.
“The Queen of Exotic Dancers”, American Burlesque Super Star, Tempest Storm
It is with great humility and thanks that BurlyCares announces we have raised a grand total of $11,501.02 for the amazing Tempest Storm. Tempest graced the grand stage and transitioned from this world on April 20, 2021. She was surrounded by loved ones and passed with great comfort and ease. The entire BurlyCares team holds the upmost gratitude and honor for being part of Tempest’s care, comfort and transition. As she did with her entire life, she faced healthcare challenges and transitioning with amazing grace and fearlessness.
BurlyCares is proud to announce that we surpassed our goal to raise $8500 for Tempest and raised a grand total of $11,501.02! Below is a breakdown of the amount of money raised and the allocation of money spent to assist Tempest.
Total Amount Raised: $11,501.02
Private Certified Nursing Assistance & Direct Care Caregiver Costs: $1211.50
Private Registered Nursing & Case Management Direct Patient Care Costs: $2,647.50
Medication Co-Pay Costs: $36.00
Afterlife/Funeral Home Costs (Nevada & Georgia): $7606.02
Final Balance as of 5/5/2021: $0
Headstone Fund as of 8/18/2021: $1,250.00
BurlyCares continues to extend profound gratitude and thanks to all those who donated to Tempest’s Fundraiser. Your donations went to direct care for her, care that maintained ultimate comfort and the ability for Tempest to remain in her home throughout her process. Your donations also ensured a proper burial, per her final wishes, and the ability to have her final resting place be with her family in Eastman, Georgia.
“Miss Bump-and-Grind ’63”, Burlesque Super Legend Penny Starr Senior!
She is known as the one of ‘World’s Oldest Strippers’ and she has delighted audiences the world over for decades! She is Penny Starr Sr. and she is a living Legend of burlesque! Penny is still very active within the art of burlesque and she has recently encountered more than a few challenges during the Covid pandemic.
After the recent passing of her husband, and also not being able to teach or perform regularly over the last year due to Covid, she has come upon unexpected financial difficulties with her home, as well as with her beloved animals. Penny is in need of funding for her home to replace and treat all of the insulation in her attic, as well as controlling and treating a severe termite and rat infestation. In addition to housing needs, Penny has had to treat her dogs more frequently with veterinarian visits and surgery for one of them. Penny is deeply connected to her dogs, and they have provided her with a constant source of comfort and love during the Covid pandemic.
BurlyCares, along with her trusted confidant, friend and neo-burlesque performer ‘Visa V’, (The Wildcard of Burlesque), would like to set a goal to raise $5,000 for Penny. Any additional money raised passed the above-stated needs will go towards a fund kept for any additional housing needs or care for her dogs. BurlyCares is also committed to continuing to work with Penny and her family on addressing any other long-term needs as well.
Penny’s fundraiser is currently set up on Go Fund Me via Visa V. You may also donate directly to BurlyCares on behalf of Penny as well. 100% of all the proceeds collected from the BurlyCares links will go directly to Penny. Any amount donated is so greatly appreciated.
We deeply love and appreciate all that donate to helping Penny during this time and to all who continue to support our Legends!
Since the start of this fundraiser our communities have raised $3,409 for Penny!
“Support for Cheryl” A Fundraiser for Las Vegas Show Girl & Yoga Legend Cheryl Slader
Posted with full written and verbal consent per Cheryl Slader
Las Vegas local community member Cheryl Slader has been a dedicated variety show performer and dancer since the age of 19, and an avid yoga practitioner for over 20 years. Those that know Cheryl, know that she is a heart-centered, committed yoga teacher who is dedicated to bringing peace and balance to the community of Las Vegas. She has successfully run the yoga studio “Blue Sky Yoga” in downtown Las Vegas for over 20 years.
Recently, Cheryl has faced some very difficult and life-threatening health challenges. This year Cheryl was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of breast cancer that has a high risk of spreading. She has been incorporating different modalities of treatment (many of which are not covered by insurance). Most recently she has seen some very good results with the modalities she has incorporated into her treatment. However, Cheryl’s journey with conquering cancer is not over. She had a recent lumpectomy with good results but will need another surgery. She will also continue to need to do all the current modalities of treatment to ensure the cancer will not return. In addition, she will need breast reconstruction post the lumpectomy. As a result, Cheryl will be unable to return to work full-time until her treatments are completed.
Cheryl Slader’s Bio
Cheryl started dancing in dance classes at age 2 and danced her way across the world from age 19 onward. She was featured in Las Vegas shows “Sizzle”, “Abracadabra”, “Alakazaam”, “Enter the Night”, “Forbidden Vegas”, “Jubilee”, “Les Follies Bergere” and “Viva Las Vegas”. She was also featured in the Atlantic City show “La Cage”. Later in her career she performed in the touring show “Artrageous” as a dancer, speed painter and singer.
Cheryl has since become a prolific yoga instructor, and continues to the run the only ‘pay what you can’ yoga studio, “Blue Sky Yoga” in downtown Las Vegas. She continues to take great pride in maintaining, serving and healing others.
