Mini-Me Verne Troyer big man on campus

11/23/2010

For someone nicknamed Mini-Me, Verne Troyer has a big heart.

The Austin Powers star, 41, cruised into the Best Buddies Gala on Watson Island Friday night to lend his support to the cause, helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Among the attendees: founder Anthony K. Shriver; his niece, Katherine Schwarzenegger, who appeared at the Miami International Book Fair Sunday with her new book, Rock Your Body; actor George Hamilton; and photographer Bruce Weber.

But all eyes were on Troyer, riding around on his souped-up scooter.

He was obviously enjoying the attention.

``People always scream out, `Hey, Mini-Me!' '' said the Michigan native who has a rare type of skeletal dwarfism. ``It's cute.''

So you don't want to be known for your turn on The Surreal Life?

``Nope,'' said the pint-size actor. ``That was a low point for me.''

Next up: the horror movie Judge Ice. ``I don't know if I play an angel or a devil yet, but they're both fun.''

GO 'SHROOMING

Truffles for Thanksgiving? Why yes, says Nicola Carro, head chef at Quattro.

Even better if you're planning a romantic meal for two: ``The white truffle is well known for its unique aroma, taste and aphrodisiac qualities,'' he says.

Nicola, along with his twin brother Fabrizio, are big fans of the gastronomical objets d'art from Alba, Italy, and

put them to full use on the

menu when they are in season

(through December) at both their restaurants in Miami Beach and New York.

Caveat: ``Use them on a simple dish; other-

wise, you lose the

aroma and flavor,''

Nicola says. ``Try

basic things, like

a sauce with one

cheese [e.g., fon-

tina] and then

make a risotto.''

Another recommendation: ``Shave truffles on top of your favorite mashed potato recipe, as long as it doesn't have a lot of garlic or spices.''

CAT'S AWAY

David Arquette seems to be getting over his separation with Courteney Cox in Miami.

The Scream star lived it up at (where else?) the Fontainebleau, celebrating LIV's two-year anniversary, ``surrounded by women,'' a spy told People.

-- MADELEINE MARR