If you're one of the lucky ones planning to attend the 2007 Pebble Beach classics (meaning you can afford the atrocious motel rates, up to 300% over normal) you might want to attend the Russo & Steele Preview Cocktail Reception benefiting the Monterey culinary arts Foundation.

Right. Give your money to better cooking when all around us others are starving. Okay, Powell, hold the social commentary; after all, Pebble Beach is nothing but a good time for the wealthy. If you've got it, flaunt it... just be prepared to duck the bullets.

Russo & Steele tends to favour US cars (particularly of the muscle variety) but Pebble Beach attracts a different clientele and this auction reflects that choice. The Preview Cocktail Reception, open to bidders and their guests, is held on August 16 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM and includes autos, cocktails, Hors D'Oeuvres, silent auction and entertainment.