"Pipeline to a Cure" Gala for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to Feature Shawn Parr and Fuel TV's Matt Beacham

The fourth annual Pipeline to a Cure, a star-studded, surf-centric fundraiser benefitting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, will take place on Aug. 6 at the Hyatt Regency in Huntington Beach, Calif. The gala features professional surfers, TV and radio personalities, local socialites and live entertainment, including pop-punk band Emily's Army.

Fuel TV's Matt Beacham, a 20-year professional surfing veteran, will headline the event with country radio personality Shawn Parr and special guests Laird Hamilton and Dave Kalama, surf legends who have co-chaired the gala since its inception in 2008.

Cystic Fibrosis, a chronic disease affecting more than 70,000 people worldwide, causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs and pancreas, leading to serious lung infections and digestive disorders. The disease became intertwined with surfing after Australian scientists realized that patients with Cystic Fibrosis who surfed breathed more easily than others affected by the disease. Turns out, the saline air helped surfers with CF to better eliminate mucus, improving lung function.

Since Cystic Fibrosis receives no government funding, public donations are the only way to promote research for the disease and provide programs and treatments for those affected, including surfing lessons and inland saline treatments. "Pipeline to a Cure" has raised more than $1.3 million directly for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in the last three years, according to the foundation's Orange County chapter page.

Highlights of "Pipeline to a Cure" include a gourmet dinner, cocktail reception, live and silent auctions and a VIP lounge. Up-and-coming teen band Emily's Army, which features the son of Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong on drums, will provide musical entertainment.

This year's live auction items feature a surfing trip with to Maui with Dave Kalama, a 10-day excursion to Costa Rica, business-class flights and accommodations at the Renaissance hotel in Paris, and a three-night stay at a slope-side ski lodge by Resorts West at Deer Valley Resort. NASCAR, Oakley and WaveRunner have also contributed unique items and experiences.

Equally thrilling yet more affordable items are also part of the auction, including restaurant packages, gift certificates and surf apparel. Tickets to the Aug. 6 event are still available at www.pipelinetoacure.com. Every dollar raised at "Pipeline to a Cure" directly benefits the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.