FRI 12/3
What do a former president, a sitcom star, and a filthy-rich icon of American capitalism have in common? No, this isn't the beginning of a joke -- these folks are all on the guest list for the 15th Annual Chris Evert Pro Celebrity Tennis Classic. This year's event will run from Friday through Sunday at the Delray Beach Tennis Center (201 W. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach). Proceeds benefit the Chris Evert Children's Hospital at Broward General Medical Center. Since 1989, the event has raised more than $12 million for kids. Tennis great Evert, who boasts 18 career grand slam titles, will host luminaries including former President George H.W. Bush, billionaire developer Donald Trump, Friends star Matthew Perry, and comedian Chevy Chase. Single-day tickets range from $20 to $35, and admission for the weekend's other events are separate. The singular goal of the entire weekend is helping children in need. Call 561-394-2400, or visit www.chrisevert.org. -- Russ Evans
FAU vs. FIU
Owls and Panthers tangle in Shula Bowl
SAT 12/4
It's been a season of milestones for the Florida Atlantic University Owls. The team got its first shutout in the school's four-year history against Illinois State a few weeks back. Running back Doug Parker has set the record for rushing yards in a season, and he has an outside chance of becoming the school's first 1,000-yard rusher. The season hasn't been so fortuitous for the Florida International University Panthers. After starting out 2-1, the team has seen the losses mount. They've come in all fashions -- a heartbreaking 30-27 decision to McNeese State and 20-plus-point blowouts from New Mexico State and Georgia Southern. But for either Florida squad, it's Saturday's third-annual Shula Bowl that counts. The crosstown rivals face each other at 4 p.m. at Pro Player Stadium (2269 Dan Marino Blvd., Miami). Call 954-523-3309. -- Russ Evans
Playin' Ping-Pong
MON 12/6
Monday at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood) South Floridians will Ping-Pong with Miami Dolphins all-pro Jason Taylor and various other celebrities in the name of charity, during JT's Ping-Pong Smash to benefit the Jason Taylor Foundation. Participants will be paired with celebrities from the sports and entertainment world as teams compete in a round-robin-style Ping-Pong tournament. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m., with tournament play starting at 6:30. There will also be a post-play champion's celebration that includes an awards ceremony, a banquet, and a silent auction. All participant spots are filled, but spectators can still attend. Admission costs $5. Call 954-424-0799. -- Russ Evans
