Show Biz: The Art of Giving Help

By Stephen M. Silverman

09/17/2001 at 07:56 AM EDT

Addressing the entire nation on Sunday during a news conference, New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani said, "You want to help? Then come to New York and spend money." Every corner of the city has been revving up to return to normal life, especially in the arts. With the entire company on stage, the American flag flying overhead and a subdued speech about the need to go forward, the New York City Opera opened its season four days late on Saturday night, featuring a double-bill of romantic tragedy and light comedy. In the music world, Madonna delivered a message of peace at her weekend concerts in Los Angeles, and said that a portion of her ticket sales would go to benefit charities dealing directly with the New York disaster. Jennifer Lopez reportedly wrote out a check for $25,000. A group of pop stars led by Michael Jackson plans to record a new song, titled "What More Can I Give," to raise $50 million for survivors and families of victims. The artists include Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Mya, Destiny's Child and Nick Carter. But it was really Rosie O'Donnell who put her money where her mouth is. A representative from the American Red Cross announced on Sunday that O'Donnell wrote out a check to the organization for $1 million. On another tender note, Dolores Hope, wife of veteran comedian and USO icon Bob Hope, 98 (and ailing lately), told PEOPLE.com on Sunday, "If Bob were up to it, you bet he'd be right there, entertaining the troops in New York." The Hopes have donated money and said prayers instead.