Look To The Stars News: Creative Arts

Steven Tyler's Closet Going Under The Hammer

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:00:00 -0000

On November 21, 2009, The Hard Rock Cafe Times Square New York will be the venue for Julien’s Auctions’ Steven Tyler Auction benefitting MusiCares and the Musicians Assistance Program (MAP).

For the first time, the clothing and memorabilia from Aerosmith’s legendary front-man, Steven Tyler, are offered for public sale.

The proceeds from this auction will benefit The MusiCares MAP fund that assists musicians in their recovery from addiction. Steven Tyler has lent his support and offered his personal items for auction, including stage and event worn clothing by renowned designers and signed memorabilia.

Own a piece of Tyler’s unique style down to his boxer shorts or swim trunks. Also offered for sale, a signed Paul McCartney Hofner bass and other Paul McCartney Grammy Awards memorabilia, a U2 signed guitar, a Ron Wood signed Gibson guitar, guitars hand painted by Carly Simon, Brandon Boyd, David Lee Roth and others.

The event starts at 10am and will be followed by a Music Icons auction featuring items from Michael Jackson. For full information about the two auctions, visit the Julien’s Auctions website.

Harry Connick Jr To Hold Charity Event For MusiCares

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Catrina K. Sally

Harry Connick Jr. and Clive Davis will share an evening with GRAMMY Museum Executive Director Robert Santelli for charity on November 11, 2009.

The trio will be discussing Davis and Connick’s collaboration on Your Songs, Connick’s latest album. Members of the 200 member audience will be able to participate in a question and answer session, and will also be treated to a live performance of some of Connick’s music.

Tickets are $75 dollars and are available at the GRAMMY Museum box office or by calling 213.765.6803. The night promises to be a rewarding evening for music by talented musicians. All proceeds from the event will benefit MusiCares, the GRAMMY Museum, and Musicians’ Village.

Emily Deschanel To Hold Q&A For Charity

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:30:00 -0000

The Screen Actors Guild will present a special screening of the hit TV show Bones in Los Angeles tonight, followed by a Q&A session with actress Emily Deschanel.

An actress with talent and poise, Emily Deschanel has built an impressive list of credits in her career, challenging herself with each new role.
 
An animal rights activist passionately involved with the charity Farm Sanctuary, Dechanel works to end cruelty to farm animals and promotes compassionate living through rescue, education and advocacy. She is also involved with The Humane Society and Women for Women International.  Deschanel was born in Los Angeles and received her B.F.A. in Theater from Boston University.

The Screen Actors Guild encourages interest in acting and improving the acting skills of interested persons though educational seminars, workshops, tapes and films.

This event starts at 7pm tonight, October 27, at the SAG Foundation Actors Center at 5757 Wilshire Avenue. For more information, click here.

Carrie Ann Inaba iParticipates At Food Bank

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

ABC’s Dancing with the Stars judge and iParticipate celebrity ambassador Carrie Ann Inaba donated her time – along with 50-plus volunteers – for a day of service at the Three Square Food Bank in Las Vegas on Wednesday, October 21.

The event was part of the iParticipate initiative that Look To The Stars reported on earlier this week, in which celebrities such as Michelle Obama, Blythe Danner, Morgan Freeman, Faith Hill, Matthew McConaughey, Gwyneth Paltrow, Simon Baker (CBS’ The Mentalist), Emily Deschanel (FOX’s Bones), Eva Longoria Parker (ABC’s Desperate Housewives), Julia Louis Dreyfus (CBS’ The New Adventures of Old Christine), Masi Oka (NBC’s Heroes), Michael Strahan (FOX’s Brothers), Kate Walsh (ABC’s Private Practice) and Rainn Wilson (NBC’s The Office) have joined with the Entertainment Industry Foundation to encourage people to volunteer for good causes.   

Inaba joined her fellow volunteers in sorting and packaging food for distribution to needy residents of Southern Nevada. Three Square is the only food bank in Las Vegas and prepares more than 8 million meals annually for underprivileged families.

The photo shows iParticipate celebrity ambassador Carrie Ann Inaba, center, and UnitedHealthcare employees Brian Elkjer, left, and Jay Sivasailam at the Three Square food bank in North Las Vegas during the event.

Photo © Isaac Brekken/UnitedHealthcare

Inaugural Noble Awards Celebrate Hollywood Philanthropy

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Look To The Stars was proud to be part of the inaugural Noble Awards on Sunday, October 18 – an event that honored a host of charities and the celebrities that support them, elevating awareness of the significant impact of their work.

Held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, the event honored Morgan Freeman with a lifetime achievement award, as well as Laila Ali (Women’s Sports Foundation), Billy Bush (Lollipop Theater Network), Kenny Edmonds (Stand Up To Cancer), Teri Hatcher (Children’s Hospital Los Angeles), Norman Lear (Playing for Change), Joel Madden (The Art of Elysium), AnnaLynne McCord (The Blind Project), Nancy O’Dell (Best Buddies International), Eva Longoria Parker (Padres Contra El Cancer) and Brett Ratner (DoSomething.org).

Lionel Richie was on hand during the ceremony to present an award to Joel Madden, who attended the event with Nicole Richie and his brother Benji.

“I want to welcome him to our family and present this Noble award to a guy I love very much – Joel Madden!” said Lionel as he introduced Joel to the crowd.

“They are just as much a part of it,” said Madden, paying tribute to Nicole and Benji. “Nicole does just as much as I do with Art of Elysium and all the charities we work with. And so does Benj – Benj actually does more then I do, and he plays the guitar better then I do, so he is a little more entertaining for the kids.”

Madden later Twittered about the emotions he felt as he accepted his award: “Just left the NOBLE awards. Got an award that was really for the people at the Art of Elysium. Awesome folks and I’m humbled to know them. By the way got totally choked up when I got my award. I hate thinking about kids in the hospital, they should be getting the awards not us.”

The award itself was designed by Antonio Banderas, with personal touches added by children who participated in The Art of Elysium workshop at the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Morgan Freeman received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless work and dedication to over a dozen non-profits. Freeman’s diverse charitable efforts include working with American Red Cross, Artists for a New South Africa, the Campaign for Female Education, Earth Biofuels, Grenada Relief Fund, Mississippi Animal Rescue League and Mississippi State College of Veterinary Medicine. Freeman has also done PSAs for Sierra Club, and a number of Entertainment Industry Foundation campaigns, covering issues like colon cancer prevention, health care reform and volunteerism.

“I think so often we don’t know that our gestures matter,” said Teri Hatcher, who was also honored. “I think when you get involved in your local community charity you really do see you make a difference and it’s empowering for you.”

Look To The Stars was at the awards, and we will bring you more about the fantastic event over the coming days.

Stars Want Fans To iParticipate In Charity Initiative

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:00:00 -0000

The Entertainment Industry Foundation has mobilized the entertainment community around a groundbreaking initiative designed to inspire a new era of service and volunteerism.

Called iParticipate, the initiative aims to show what we can achieve when we all pull together. A number of celebrities have given their support to the campaign, including Michelle Obama, Blythe Danner, Morgan Freeman, Faith Hill, Matthew McConaughey, Gwyneth Paltrow, Simon Baker (CBS’ The Mentalist), Emily Deschanel (FOX’s Bones), Eva Longoria Parker (ABC’s Desperate Housewives), Julia Louis Dreyfus (CBS’ The New Adventures of Old Christine), Masi Oka (NBC’s Heroes), Michael Strahan (FOX’s Brothers), Kate Walsh (ABC’s Private Practice) and Rainn Wilson (NBC’s The Office).

As a centerpiece for this initiative, EIF has enlisted major broadcast networks including, ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC, for an unprecedented, week-long television event beginning Monday, October 19. Tune in to seven days and nights of television and watch how your favorite TV shows and personalities shine a light on the power of community service.

The rate at which Americans volunteer regularly has not increased in 40 years and has generally remained around 26% of the population, according to a survey conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While volunteerism usually declines during periods of economic distress, volunteerism is currently on the rise in America, particularly among young people, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service.

EIF has also produced a series of public service announcements to reinforce the importance of volunteerism. Through these PSAs, EIF will also recognize and encourage support for five key areas of service: Education & Children, Health & Well Being, Economic Development, Environmental Conservation, and Support for Military Families.

To coincide with the week of programming, hundreds of employees working at entertainment industry companies are answering the call to serve with organized volunteer projects throughout Los Angeles. Planned projects include:

Tuesday, October 20
Paramount Pictures, NBC Universal and United Talent Agency (UTA) will team up to make food packages for families at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

Thursday, October 22
Warner Bros. Entertainment employees will be planting trees in Griffith Park, which was devastated by fires last year, in partnership with TreePeople.
WME Entertainment will volunteer at the Lowman Special Education Center with The Art of Elysium, a program that helps children battling serious medical conditions.
Fox Entertainment Group, International Creative Management (ICM) and Screen Actors Guild(SAG) will work side-by-side with CITY YEAR corps members to beautify Carthay Center Elementary School.

Friday October 23
Sony Pictures Entertainment,AEG and Paradigm will build homes for Habitat for Humanity at the first LEED certified housing development in the city of Lynwood.

Saturday, October 24
Disney | ABCTelevision Group and Creative Artists Agency(CAA) will assemble holiday care packages for military troops with Operation Gratitude at the Van Nuys National Guard Armory.

Other entertainment organizations who will volunteer this week include: CBS, Directors Guild of America, Nickelodeon, Producers Guild of America and Writers Guild of America.

Also as part of the initiative, ABC’s Dancing with the Stars judge and iParticipate celebrity ambassador Carrie Ann Inaba will donate her time along with 50-plus volunteers for a day of service at the Three Square Food Bank in Las Vegas on Wednesday, October 21st at 10:30 AM.

Inaba will join her fellow volunteers in sorting and packaging food for distribution to needy residents of Southern Nevada. Three Square is the only food bank in Las Vegas and prepares more than 8 million meals annually for underprivileged families. Inaba supports numerous charities along with “iParticipate” including the Face Foundation and Rescue Train.

To find out more about iParticipate, to watch PSAs, or to take part in this amazing revolution of volunteerism, visit the official website here.

Look To The Stars Helps Promote Hollywood Philanthropy At Noble Awards

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Look to the Stars is pleased to announce that we will work year-round with The Noble Awards to promote philanthropy in Hollywood.

The inaugural Noble Awards, taking place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Sunday, October 18, has announced five new award honorees. The Blind Project, The Lollipop Theater Network, Padres Contra el Cancer and Playing for Change will be honored along with six previously announced charities. In addition, Morgan Freeman will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. The two-hour event, hosted by “Access Hollywood’s” Billy Bush, seeks to annually honor up to a dozen charities and celebrities who actively support them, elevating awareness of these organizations and the significant impact of their work.

Celebrities who will accept awards on behalf of the charities being honored include Laila Ali (Women’s Sports Foundation), Billy Bush (Lollipop Theater Network), Kenny Edmonds (Stand Up To Cancer), Teri Hatcher (Children’s Hospital Los Angeles), Norman Lear (Playing for Change), Joel Madden (The Art of Elysium), AnnaLynne McCord (The Blind Project), Nancy O’Dell (Best Buddies International), Eva Longoria Parker (Padres Contra El Cancer) and Brett Ratner (DoSomething.org). During the ceremony, each will be presented with an award sculpture, designed by Antonio Banderas, with personal touches added by children who participated in The Art of Elysium workshop at the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Brian McKnight and Julio Iglesias, Jr., along with Emily Bear and Timothy Mitchum will provide live musical performances throughout the evening.

“We are delighted to present these eleven distinguished charities and their celebrity supporters with the inaugural Noble Award,” stated Janeen Mansour, creator and executive producer of The Noble Awards. “With the presentation of The Noble Awards, our goal is to turn the spotlight back onto these celebrities and charities to provide recognition, to educate, to inspire, and to encourage even more support from the Hollywood community and the public at large.”

Morgan Freeman will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his tireless work and dedication to over a dozen non-profits. Freeman’s diverse charitable efforts include working with American Red Cross, Artists for a New South Africa, the Campaign for Female Education, Earth Biofuels, Grenada Relief Fund, Mississippi Animal Rescue League and Mississippi State College of Veterinary Medicine. Freeman has also done PSAs for Sierra Club, and a number of Entertainment Industry Foundation campaigns, covering issues like colon cancer prevention, health care reform and volunteerism.

“The Entertainment Industry Foundation is pleased to be a part of the inaugural Noble Awards,” said Lisa Paulsen, President and CEO of Entertainment Industry Foundation. “We are honored and so proud to present our dear friend and exceptional actor Morgan Freeman with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding charitable work and ongoing contributions to so many important social causes.”

The Noble Awards will kick off the “Be A Noble” Movement, a perennial effort to encourage each and every person to “Be A Noble,” and inspire them to give back and take action with a purpose on a global scale. Some of these initiatives include:

Look to the Stars will work year-round with The Noble Awards to promote philanthropy in Hollywood.

As part of next year’s Cup with a Cause program, 7-Eleven, in collaboration with The Noble Awards, will produce a series of celebrity-designed coffee cups featured in stores nationwide. A minimum of $250,000 will go towards each participating celebrity’s charity of choice. During The Noble Awards’ cocktail hour, guests will be asked to design cups as part of the program.

Participant Media and Takepart.com, the official “action” platform for the Awards, have partnered with the “Be A Noble” Movement to provide the Foundation with a web platform to showcase the work of all the organizations they are honoring throughout the year.

ONEHOPE Wine has bottled an award-winning varietal of wine to be labeled “NOBLE.” 100% of all proceeds from each bottle will go towards the “Be A Noble” Movement, to be distributed among the honored charities.

Rumblefish Jewelry will design a jewelry line based on The Noble Awards and “Be A Noble” Movement, where a percentage of sales will be donated to Noble charities.

Additional partners include EIF/iParticipate, The Hollywood Reporter, Audi, Beverly Hilton, Mobile Cause, Rosenthal and GoodSearch.

As the film industry has the Oscars, television the Emmys and the music industry the Grammy Awards, the charity community and its most dedicated Hollywood supporters will gain global recognition with the staging of The Noble Awards. Produced on behalf of the Celebrity Charity Awards Corporation, a non-profit organization, the first annual awards will take place on October 18, 2009. The Celebrity Charity Awards Corporation will launch a year-round movement to BE A NOBLE to better unify the efforts of charities with celebrities, influencers, media and everyday citizens in order to create an effective forum for change and service. For more information, please visit www.thenobleawards.org.

Gwyneth Paltrow Encourages Volunteers In PSA

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow and her mother, Blythe Danner, have teamed up to appear in a new PSA encouraging people to volunteer.

The ad is sponsored by the Entertainment Industry Foundation and United Healthcare and aims to get more people interested in helping at a community level.

“The biggest blessing in life is to realise your personal power – community work brings families closer together,” says Paltrow in the ad. "Doing good for others, doing positive action – help always comes back around and enriches your life. It’s the biggest gift you could ever give yourself.

“Join us in volunteering.”

To watch the ad, click here.

Ashley Judd To Receive Hollywood Hero Award

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Accomplished film, television and Broadway actress and philanthropist, Ashley Judd will be honored November 10 as the recipient of the fourth annual USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award being presented by USA TODAY President and Publisher David Hunke. The award recognizes her work as Global Ambassador for YouthAIDS, the education and prevention program of Population Services International (PSI).

Judd will be feted at a private award gala on the evening of November 10 at The Montage Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. Guests will enjoy special celebrity tributes to Ashley Judd, dinner, a silent auction and an exciting live auction, with all proceeds to benefit PSI.

“I am honored to receive the USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award. I accept it on behalf of the world’s poor, vulnerable, and exploited, who in my capacity as global ambassador for YouthAIDS and board member for PSI, I am committed to serving. I am grateful to PSI and its grassroots mission of providing basic health products, services, and the care necessary to empower people to lead healthier lives, which is the basis for all sustainability and is vital for what we are all working toward: stability and peace,” said Ashley Judd.

“We are very pleased to present our fourth annual USA TODAY Hollywood Hero award to Ms. Judd. Her work as an ambassador for YouthAIDS is an inspiration to us all and should be celebrated,” said USA TODAY President and Publisher David Hunke.

In what has become a USA TODAY signature event, the USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award is presented annually to an entertainment industry humanitarian who has made remarkable contributions of time and energies with a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the quality of life for others. The USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award recipient is unique in that his or her efforts extend far beyond charitable contributions or lending one’s celebrity to enhance a cause or concern.

Previous winners of the USA TODAY Hollywood Hero Award have been film and TV producer, entertainment entrepreneur and sports legend Magic Johnson, for his work with the Magic Johnson Foundation in providing HIV/AIDS prevention and health care education to adults and children throughout the minority community; Academy and Golden Globe Award-winning actress/producer Geena Davis, honored for the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media in breaking stereotypes and improving gender portrayals in all media produced for children; and United Nation’s Medaille d’Excellence award-winning actress/choreographer Zina Bethune and her Infinite Dreams program, which has introduced more than ten thousand physically-challenged children across the country into actively participating in the performing arts.

Actresses To Be Honored For Sports And Charity

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 11:30:00 -0000

As previously reported by Look To The Stars, the 2009 Celebrity & Stuntwomen’s Awards and the Diamond in the RAW Foundation have announced two-time Golden Globe winner Jamie Lee Curtis and Super Middleweight Champion Laila Ali among top honorees. Curtis will be awarded the Action Icon Award for her achievements in film and Ali will be awarded the Dare2bDifferent Award for her achievements in sports and her involvement in charity work.

“In its second year, The Celebrity & Stuntwomen’s Awards will honor the fearless and outstanding achievements of action-oriented women within the entertainment industry and stunt community,” stated La Faye Baker, stuntwoman and co-creator of The Celebrity & Stuntwomen’s Awards. “We are excited to have Jamie Lee Curtis and Laila Ali among our top honorees, as well as several other outstanding women from the stunt community.”

The Diamond in the RAW Foundation is a Los Angeles-based non-profit organization whose mission is to educate and expose at-risk teen girls to a multitude of careers in the entertainment industry, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.

Angela Meryl, Taurus World Stunt nominee with credits including “Obsessed”, “Kill Bill”, “Pirates of the Caribbean”, and “Grey’s Anatomy” will be awarded the Diamond in the RAW Award. May Boss will be honored with the Helen Gibson Award for her career as a veteran stunt woman and work in films including “Money Train” “The Story of Will Rogers”, “Blazing Saddles”, and “Police Academy”. The Special Achievement Award will be given to Mary Albee, whose credits include “Crossing Jordan”, “Ugly Betty”, “Seven Feet Under”, and “Murder She Wrote”. Given posthumously, Svetla Krasteva will be honored with the Gone But Not Forgotten Award for her work in films such as “Rush Hour 2”, “Peter Pan”, “The Ring”, and ’Lethal Weapon".

Additional award categories include the Gem Award, Jewel Award, Mentorship Award, “Wow” Stuntwoman Award, and Dynamic DUO Award, which are nominated by the stunt community and members of the Screen Actors Guild.

“Extra” correspondent Jeannie Mai and TV Guide Channel’s Patrick Stinson will serve as co-hosts for the 2009 Celebrity & Stuntwomen’s Awards. Special celebrity guests include, star of such shows as, 2009 Emmy Award Winner-Grey’s Garden,Tony Award Winner and 2009-2010 Screen Actors Guild President Ken Howard, Sean Patrick Flannery, star of the “Young Indiana Jones” film series; Lee Meriwether, best known for her role as Catwoman in the original “Batman” film; Louis Mandylor, co-star of the hit film “My Big Fat Greek Wedding”; actress Erica Hubbard from “Lincoln Heights”; Shirly Brener, co-star of “War, Inc.” and “The Dunwich Horror”; actress and stuntwoman Zoe Bell, who worked on the recent box office hit “Inglourious Basterds”; Dale Dye, actor and tactical advisor to Steven Spielberg; pro skateboarder Lauren Perkins; Robin Shou, star of the “Mortal Kombat” films; Diana Lee Inosanto, actress and goddaughter to legendary martial arts legend Bruce Lee..and many more!.

The Celebrity & Stuntwomen’s Awards. will take place Sunday, October 4, 2009 at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A reception and silent auction will kick off the event at 11:00 a.m., followed by the luncheon and awards ceremony at 12:30 p.m. Tickets for the Awards are available for purchase at www.DiamondintheRAW.com.

Matt Damon Announces 2nd Annual ONEXONE Fundraiser In San Francisco

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:00:00 -0000

ONEXONE – the charitable organization committed to fighting health issues and preserving the lives of children locally and globally – along with Academy Award-winner Matt Damon, will host their 2nd Annual ONEXONE Fundraiser at Bimbo’s 365 Club in San Francisco, CA on Thursday, October 22.

The evening will feature keynote speaker Vicki Escarra, CEO of Feeding America, along with a special headline performance from Snow Patrol, who is coming off their highly successful solo tour in the U.S. and recent sold-out tour with U2. Additional speakers and entertainment include Carlos Santana on behalf of The Milagro Foundation, Spencer Day, a local jazz vocalist from San Francisco, and Ethan Bortnick, the 8-year old pianist and composer. ONEXONE will also welcome back Jay Bilas for his second year as Master of Ceremonies.

In addition, the annual fundraiser will announce details surrounding the organizations latest program in partnership with ONEXONE Ambassadors Matt Damon and Mia Hamm, and Academy-Award winner Charlize Theron and the Charlize Theron African Outreach Project. The partnership between ONEXONE and the Charlize Theron African Outreach Project pools their resources and combines their dedications in a new and unique charitable initiative that will be unveiled at the October 22 fete.

“We feel lucky to be able to bring this event back to San Francisco after such a successful launch last year,” said Marc Joubert, President of ONEXONE U.S. “It’s a great city and the people of San Francisco are so generous, they genuinely care about the issues and are committed to helping make a difference. We’re also excited to come back and unveil a brand new initiative that will make this year’s event even bigger and better than last year’s.”

The ONEXONE event in San Francisco focuses not only on raising funds and awareness for the issues, but also on producing a top-notch show that entertains and educates the audience at the same time. Last year’s inaugural event to celebrate the launch of their U.S. operation, and the international charity’s first American home, did just that while raising more than $1 million for the organization. ONEXONE was founded in 2005 by Diesel Canada President, Joelle Berdugo Adler, and has raised more than $7 million for children around the world since that time.

For more information on ONEXONE please visit www.onexone.org.

British Bands To Play For Youth Music Charity

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

British band The Enemy and singing sensation Little Boots are to play gigs as part of a forthcoming exhibition project by photographer Rankin for children’s music charity Youth Music.

Youth Music is the UK’s largest children’s music charity, set up in 1999 to promote and support music making opportunities and to provide advice to children from birth – 18 with the least access, including some of the UK’s most disadvantaged young people. Youth Music works alongside the formal and community-based sectors to support music-making and training.

The acts are set to play at London’s Phillips de Pury Gallery on November 12 and 13, and are part of a week-long series of music and art events.

Photographer Rankin has asked a host of top musicians and acts – such as Blur’s Alex James, Alanis Morissette, Beth Orton, Kylie Minogue, Keane, Jarvis Cocker, Kasabian and REM’s Michael Stipe – to customise a picture of themselves for the exhibition, titled Destroy.

Tickets will go on sale on September 28 from here.

Jordin Sparks Inspires Teens To Make A Difference

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:30:00 -0000

Jordin Sparks is on a mission to spark some change by inspiring teens to make a difference.

Sparks and the National Milk Mustache “Got Milk?” Campaign have partnered with VH1 Save The Music Foundation to launch the ‘Drink Milk for a Change’ program. Sparks knows that drinking milk for a change can help make a difference in herself and her world.

Sparks is helping to launch the new ‘Drink Milk for a Change’ campaign to show teens the simple steps they can take to help make a difference in themselves and the world. An easy way is to make a commitment to drink milk and encourage others to do the same by making a Milk Mustache ad at bodybymilk.com. For every Milk Mustache photo created, one dollar will go to support VH1 Save The Music Foundation. The VH1 Save The Music Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring instrumental music education in American public schools, and raising awareness about the importance of music as part of each child’s complete education.

“I know that I am in charge of what I eat and drink and my choices affect how I look and feel,” said Sparks. “I skip the sugary beverages and reach for milk instead. Milk is full of important nutrients and is something I feel good about putting into my body. I encourage all teens to help make a difference in the world and Drink Milk for a Change.”

No one knows better than Sparks that a little step will go a long way and can pay off big time. This average teenager went from American Idol winner to chart-topping singer overnight. As the newest face to don a Milk Mustache in the popular “got milk?” campaign – Sparks joins the ranks of more than 290 actors, athletes, models and musicians who have lent their upper lips in support of milk.

Debuting in Seventeen magazine, her ad reads:“I’ve always had the power to wow an audience. But how do I get fired up to wow myself? I drink lowfat milk. Packed with protein and nutrients, milk gives me the energy to truly shine.”

Are you ready to drink milk for a change? It’s easy! Log onto bodybymilk.com and upload a picture of yourself. Choose the type of Milk Mustache you want and the background you like, upload your photo to the gallery and then share with friends on your Facebook page. Every teen that makes their own Milk Mustache ad will be supporting VH1 Save The Music. Make your contribution and encourage others to do the same by making a Milk Mustache at bodybymilk.com.

Christina Applegate's Charity To Benefit From Celebrity T-Shirts

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Actors, musicians and athletes have designed and autographed one-of-a-kind “I Love. . .” t-shirts to be auctioned off to benefit Christina Applegate’s foundation Right Action For Women.

The auction is in connection with Lee National Denim Day on October 2, one of the largest single day fundraisers for breast cancer in the country.

Celebrities who have lent their support include: Fergie, apl.de.ap & Taboo of The Black Eyed Peas, the cast of ABC’s “Desperate Housewives,” Ashley Tisdale, Randy Jackson, Kara DioGuardi, Jennifer Morrison, Carrie Ann Inaba, Gabrielle Union, Fran Drescher, Tiffani Thiessen, Tim Daly, and Melissa Gilbert. The tees will be auctioned off on charityfolks.com. Bidding begins today and will end on October 2. Proceeds will benefit Right Action for Women.

“I’m overwhelmed by so many familiar faces who have designed a t-shirt to help Right Action for Women which is all about getting high-risk women screened appropriately for breast cancer,” said Applegate. “I’ve been honored to be this year’s Lee National Denim Day ambassador and this t-shirt embodies the spirit and power of the campaign.”

Applegate is currently serving as ambassador for Lee National Denim Day which benefits the Women’s Cancer Programs of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF). The campaign encourages people to wear their jeans on Friday, October 2, in exchange for a $5 donation to support crucial breast cancer research. Visit denimday.com to sign up.

“Christina is such a powerful leader in the fight against breast cancer, it’s no surprise her peers are standing up to show their support for her and the fight to end this disease once and for all,” said Liz Cahill, VP of Marketing and Communications for Lee Jeans. “We’re thrilled to see the positive response and hope to see Americans follow her lead by joining us for Denim Day this October 2.”

As part of the fundraising campaign, the limited edition “I love life” t-shirt is available for purchase on denimday.com. denimday.com/. Five dollars of every $19.99 purchase will benefit Right Action for Women.

Since its inception in 1996, Denim Day has raised more than $75 million to fight breast cancer.

John McEnroe Leads City Parks Tennis Event

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Regina Walton

On Tuesday, September 1, the CityParks Foundation of New York City held its annual CityParks Tennis Benefit, co-chaired by Billie Jean King and John McEnroe. Held each year during the US Open, the event took place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows.

For the attendees, the evening was divided into four sections: reception and silent auction, dinner and awards presentation, live auction and then it was time for the evening matches. It gave CityPark donors time to bid on some great items, dine and socialize, as well as plenty of enough time to enjoy the evening matches.

Tennis legends were also on-hand during the event. John McEnroe and his band played during the reception and silent auction. During the dinner, Mary Carillo and Billie Jean King gave entertaining and inspiring speeches. Billie Jean talked about her deep connection with CityParks Tennis. She was one of the founding members and was very proud of what the organization has achieved. The speech section of the evening culminated with Carmen Ramirez receiving the Billie Jean King Junior Award and with Benjamin Doller receiving the Vitas Gerulaitis Community Service Award. Ms. Ramirez from Queens, New York, is a 17-year-old who has been a student of the CityParks program for seven years. She gave an inspiring speech about how the program has influenced her life. She has big dreams. Thanks, in part, to CityParks, she plans to attend college on a tennis scholarship.

During the reception, John McEnroe made sure he reminded the attendees about why they were there. While his band was playing, he encouraged the audience with lighthearted but earnest requests to participate in the silent auction and to donate generously to the CityParks Tennis program. He even offered a personal lesson. His encouragement must have been successful because the benefit raised over $300,000 for the program. This is the second highest amount in the event’s history.

The annual event raises important funds for CityParks Tennis. CityParks Tennis celebrates its 20th year anniversary this year. The program is a free youth instructional program that serves over 7,500 children in parks throughout New York City. It is one of the largest municipal tennis programs in the country. CityParks Tennis provides free tennis lessons to thousands of New York City’s kids ages 5 to 16. The program reaches over 7,500 kids in 40 parks in all five of New York City’s boroughs. The program encourages kids to be physically fit and develop self confidence. The program is available to kids at all skill levels from beginner lessons to organized tournaments.

The program has been massively successful. It has an advanced training academy, which offers talented youth in financial need the chance to bring their game to a higher competitive level. Hundreds of graduates from this program have earned college athletic scholarships, as well as sectional and national rankings. The program has also produced two players who have gone on to play on the junior level at the US Open.

To learn more about the CityParks Tennis program and to donate, click here.

Dave Matthews And Rob Cavallo To Discuss Collaboration For Charity

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Regina Walton

Musician Dave Matthews and producer Rob Cavallo will have a discussion in front of an audience of only 200 people on Tuesday, September 15, at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles, dealing with their collaboration on Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King.

All proceeds from this event will beneift the GRAMMY Museum and the Grammy Foundation. The Dave Matthews Band’s Bama Works Fund will match the proceeds dollar-for-dollar.

This event is available to members of the DMB fan association – which is called the Warehouse – from September 8 at 12pm ET through Thursday, September 10, at 12pm ET. Warehouse members may request up to 2 tickets. The tickets are $75 plus applicable convenience and handling fees. Confirmations will be issued by the end of the day on Friday, September 11.

The GRAMMY Museum was opened in December 2008 in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the GRAMMY Awards. It is a celebration of the power of music. It has four floors of exhibits, interactive experiences and films. There are more than two dozen exhibits that explore the greatest GRAMMY music of all genres: rock, hip-hop, country, classical, Latin, R&B and jazz.

The GRAMMY Foundation was established in 1989. Its goal is to cultivate understanding, appreciation and advancement of the contribution of recorded music to American culture. The foundation achieves this goal through programs and activities that engage both the music industry and the general public. The Foundation works in partnership with The Recording Academy to bring attention to issues such as the value and impact of music and arts education and the urgency of preserving our rich cultural heritage.

For more information and to join the DMB Warehouse, click here

Michael Jackson's Glove To Be Auctioned For Charity

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Michael Jackson’s original sparkling glove will be auctioned off for charity at the annual Music Icons event at the Hard Rock Café in New York’s Times Square in November.

But this isn’t just one of the many gloves the singer wore over his lifetime, which were right hand gloves. This is the one-of-a-kind left hand glove Jackson wore when he unveiled the moonwalk during the “Motown 25” special in 1983. Jackson gifted the glove to Walter Orange, one of the founding members of the Commodores, and it is considered one of the most iconic pieces of Michael Jackson history.

“Michael came up behind me and put his hand over my eyes and said, ‘Guess who?’” said Orange. “I knew who it was because I felt the one glove on his left hand and no glove on the other. When I once again asked him for his autograph, Michael gave me the glove he wore that night instead, still refusing to give me his autograph! He was always a real prankster, even as a little boy, so I asked him if he was serious about giving me the glove, and he assured me that he was.”

Also going under the hammer are a stage-worn fedora hat worn by Michael in his performance at the 1995 MTV Music Awards with a letter from Lisa Marie Presley Jackson stating its provenance, zombie costumes from the Thriller video, a stage-worn costume from Jackson’s final United States concert in April of 2002, Michael Jackson’s stage worn “Bad” jacket signed by Michael Jackson, record awards and other property from his historic career. Also going up for sale are early Madonna demo tapes, unreleased Jimi Hendrix lyrics and items from Bob Dylan, Elvis, the Beatles, Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, Kurt Cobain and Janis Joplin.

Proceeds from the sale of the glove will go to MusiCares, which provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. Its services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies, and each case is treated with integrity and confidentiality. MusiCares also focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community.

To learn more about the auction, click here.

Neil Young: 2010 MusiCares Person Of The Year

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Neil Young has been announced as the 2010 MusiCares Person of the Year.

The 63-year-old musician is being recognized for his outstanding philanthropic work, including co-founding Farm Aid in 1985, and founding Bridge School – and running the annual Bridge School Concerts – with his wife Pegi in 1986. Bridge School was founded to develop and use advanced technologies to aid in the instruction of children with severe speech and physical disabilities.

“Neil has set a standard of artistic integrity and iconoclastic creativity for more than four decades, and his achievements have been matched by his unwavering humanitarianism,” said Neil Portnow, president/CEO of the Recording Academy and the MusiCares Foundation. “He is a shining example of how music people offer their creative gifts to the world, and how they also give back through their commitments to charitable endeavors.”

MusiCares provides a safety net of critical assistance for music people in times of need. Its services and resources cover a wide range of financial, medical and personal emergencies, and each case is treated with integrity and confidentiality. MusiCares also focuses the resources and attention of the music industry on human service issues that directly impact the health and welfare of the music community.

Young will be the 20th person bestowed with the honor, with previous recipients including Aretha Franklin, Neil Diamond and Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys.

Young will be honored at a gala in Los Angeles on January 29, two days before the 2010 Grammy Awards.

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Leads Diabetes Campaign

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Dwayne Johnson has joined with Novo Nordisk, a world-leader in diabetes care, and the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), a leading charitable organization of the entertainment industry, to encourage families to get active together as a means to help prevent diabetes.

As an ambassador for the Diabetes Aware campaign, Johnson will appear in a public service announcement (PSA) to educate families about the prevalence of diabetes and the importance of an active, healthy lifestyle.

The PSA is part of the ongoing Diabetes Aware educational campaign sponsored by Novo Nordisk and the EIF. The campaign aims to reach the 24 million Americans who are living with diabetes, as well as the estimated 6.2 million Americans who are unaware that they have the disease, to underline the importance of detection, monitoring and proper management of diabetes.

A lifelong athlete and known for starring in family-friendly movies, Johnson recognizes the value of a healthy lifestyle in helping to prevent and manage diabetes for both children and adults.

“I’m honored to serve as an ambassador to the Diabetes Aware campaign, and I want to encourage families to be active and eat right,” said Johnson. “Small steps can go a long way in managing diabetes, its complications, and raising healthy, active children.”

With the launch of this new PSA, Johnson becomes the latest celebrity ambassador to join the Diabetes Aware program since its inception in 2004. Past ambassadors include Halle Berry, Cuba Gooding Jr., Dustin Hoffman, Kevin Kline and Jon Lovitz among others.

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Entertainment Industry Foundation and believe Dwayne Johnson is a great ambassador for the Diabetes Aware program based on his dedication to reaching families, both on-screen and off-screen,” said Andrew Purcell, Vice-President of Strategic Business Development at Novo Nordisk. “This partnership truly exemplifies Novo Nordisk’s dedication to prevention and ultimately changing diabetes.”

For additional free patient education resources, visit www.ChangingDiabetes-us.com.

Look To The Stars Film Pick: Reach For Me

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Downtown Film Festival Los Angeles (DFFLA) is proud to announce A MediaVision Production’s of LeVar’s Burton’s film “Reach for Me” as the 2009 Centerpiece Gala film, to be presented on Friday, August 14th, 2009 at 7:30pm at the United Artists Screening Theater inside the AT&T Center.

The film’s star, Seymour Cassel will be presented with the festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and a gala party will follow the evening’s programming. The award will be presented by actress and Screen Actor’s Guild Foundation executive Connie Stevens, with video tributes from Wes Anderson, Steve Buscemi, Angelica Houston, Luke Wilson and more!

This special event will be located at the festival’s main screening venue, LBA Realty’s AT&T Center (formerly, the Transamerica Center), located at corner of Hill St. and 12th St , in downtown L.A.’s burgeoning new South Park district. The gala party will be held on the 32nd penthouse floor of the complex.

“Reach for Me” (2008, USA, 89 minutes) directed by LeVar Burton follows Alvin (Seymour Cassel), a bitter man confined to the Valley Meadow Hospice who unexpectedly discovers the joys of life and its many intricacies. Ready to pass away after a disappointing life, he is interrupted by the vivacious young man named Kevin (Johnny Whitworth), a new patient and roommate who loves to live life to the fullest. Kevin and his girlfriend Sarah (Lacey Chabert) do their best to make Alvin’s life meaningful in his last few days and even get him to fall in love for the first time with Valerie (Adrienne Barbeau). Setting all the wheels in motion for the intersecting relationships is head nurse Evelyn (Alfre Woodard).

Mr Burton says “The heart and humanity of Michael Bruce Adams’ script leapt off the page. When my producing partner Mark Wolfe brought me this amazing project I was committed immediately.” Producer Susan R. Rodgers has been pleased at both the critical and audience reception to the film, commenting, “This is a filmmaker’s dream to make a great film you care so deeply for and put so much work and sacrifice into it that has garnered both commercial and artistic success.” She and producing partner Charlene Blaine-Schulenburg adds, “…we tend to shun the aging and the sick and this film paints aging and dying with both humor and dignity and most of all honor.” Producer Mark Wolfe noted that “Having such a stellar ensemble cast lead by a talent like Seymour Cassel, and under LeVar’s direction, is the essence of successful indy filmmaking.”

Cassel, an Academy Award nominated actor for Faces (1968), will be presented the lifetime achievement award. One of Hollywood’s most familiar faces, Cassel has performed in more than 170 films with numerous distinctions throughout his career as well as television appearances in shows like “The F.B.I.” (1962 ) and “Heist” (2006). He is highly celebrated for his work and dedication with the American indie film community, beginning with director John Cassavetes’ Shadows (1950) and along with other Cassavetes’ titles like Minnie and Moskowitz (1971). In addition, he starred In The Soup (1992), in which Cassel received the Special Jury Recognition for Outstanding Performance at the Sundance Film Festival, and co-starred with Bill Murray in The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004).

Much like many others in the film industry, Director LeVar Burton was amazed by Cassel’s heart and devotion to his craft. “By anyone’s standard, Seymour is a legend,” Burton comments. “He’s an amazing actor who’s had the kind of longevity in his career every actor dreams of….”

Starring along with Cassel is Alfre Woodard. In addition to her multiple Emmy and Golden Globe awards for her work in television, Woodard was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her celebrated role in director Martin Ritt’s 1983 film Cross Creek. As well as appearing in Desperate Housewives, Woodard is the co-founder of Artists for a New South Africa, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating the African AIDS pandemic and advancing democracy and equality in South Africa. ANSA also works to further civil rights and safeguard voting rights in the U.S.

The Centerpiece Gala and Awards Ceremony will be attended by celebrity presenters to be announced at a later date.

For more information, visit the festival’s website: www.dffla.com

Paul McCartney To Co-Chair Actors Fund Gig

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Paul McCartney is co-chairing a one-night-only concert to raise money for the Actors Fund of America.

With an all-star cast to be announced soon, the Actors Fund is proud to present Chance and Chemistry – A Centennial Celebration of the Music of Frank Loesser. Hosted by Annette Bening, Kevin McCollum and Jonathan Tisch, the concert will be directed and choreographed by Christopher Gattelli (South Pacific, Sunday in the Park with George, Altar Boyz) with musical direction by Brad Haak.

Oscar, Pulitzer and Tony Award winner Frank Loesser has been called the most versatile of all Broadway composers, having supplied both music and lyrics for such varied works as Guys & Dolls, Where’s Charley?, The Most Happy Fella and How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying.

The Actors Fund is a nationwide human services organization that helps all professionals in performing arts and entertainment. The Fund is a safety net, providing programs and services for those who are in need, crisis or transition.

Tickets to the show – to be held on October 26 at the Minskoff Theatre in New York – start at $150. More information can be found here.

Go Back To School With Celebrity Items

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Grammy Foundation and MusiCares want you to rock in the new school year by taking part in a new charity auction that features unique memorabilia and VIP experiences that benefit their high school music programs.

Decorate your room with original artwork and photos from Taylor Swift and Paris Hilton, signed postcards from Kanye West and Stevie Wonder, and play on guitars signed by Depeche Mode, John Mayer, Tom Petty and Sheryl Crow.

The auction also gives you the chance to extend your wardrobe with hoodies signed by the Jonas Brothers and a T shirt signed by Iggy Pop. There are also items and experiences from Coldplay, Maroon 5, Joe Satriani, the Dave Matthews Band, Slash, Alice Cooper, Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Hudson, Neil Diamond, 3 Doors Down, John Legend, Jason Mraz, U2, Melissa Etheridge, Green Day and many more.

The GRAMMY Foundation cultivates the understanding, appreciation and advancement of the impact of music on American culture through music education programs, scholarships and grants, and MusiCares provides a safety net of critical financial assistance and services for music people in times of need.

The auction runs until July 31 and can be accessed here.

Be An Intern For Richard Branson And Russell Simmons

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Hip Hop mogul Russell Simmons has joined with British businessman Richard Branson to give you the Ultimate Intern Experience.

A new charity auction is giving you the chance to meet two of the world’s greatest entrepreneurs and experience first hand how their companies operate, as well as having the opportunity of a week at each of their foundations – Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation and Virgin Unite – to see how they are addressing tough social and environmental issues.

The lucky bidder will spend a total of six weeks learning the business skills that will give you an insight into the success of these great brands. One week at each of the following companies:

Virgin Mobile USA, Warren, NJ (near New York City)
Virgin Unite, the non profit foundation of the Virgin Group, New York City
Virgin America, San Francisco, including round-trip economy airfare from NYC to San Francisco and a week of accommodation at Clift San Francisco
Def Jam Enterprises, New York City
Rush Communications, New York City
Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, New York City

To meet Sir Richard Branson: On 26th October 2009, the intern and a guest will fly to LA, courtesy of Virgin America (round-trip economy), stay for two nights at the luxurious Mondrian Hotel and be VIP guests at the ‘Rock the Kasbah’ Fundraising Gala, hosted by Sir Richard Branson for Virgin Unite.

To meet Russell Simmons: the winner will get to meet him during their tenure at the Rush companies and will also have a lunch with him while in New York City.

The auction runs until July 28 and can be accessed here.

VH1 Divas To Return For Charity

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

After a four-year hiatus, VH1 will bring back the legendary live concert event “VH1 Divas” by featuring some of pop music’s most talented female artists – Adele, Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis and Miley Ray Cyrus. The “VH1 Divas” concert will be televised live on VH1 on Thursday, September 17 at 9:00pm.

Proceeds from the show will go to VH1’s Save The Music Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of education in America’s public schools by restoring music programs in cities across the country, and raising public awareness about the importance of music participation for our nation’s youth. Since VH1 Save The Music was created in 1997, more than $43 million worth of musical instruments have been donated to 1,600 public schools in 100 cities, improving the lives of more than 1.2 million children.

For the first time ever, these leading ladies at the top of their musical game will perform together live at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn, New York. Continuing in true “Divas” tradition, the evening will feature a night of unforgettable performances from various performers, presenters and special guests. Additional performers and presenters will be announced in the coming weeks.

Fans can go now to Divas.VH1.com to submit a “Diva Stories” text or video testimonial that tells the world how their favorite diva has influenced their life. VH1 wants to hear from all Divas’ fans – favorite songs, favorite moments and the craziest things they’ve done to show their diva how they feel. Select testimonials may be featured online and on-air leading up to this year’s live telecast. Users will also be able to browse and view other’s testimonials as well as receive news and updates on “VH1 Divas.” In mid-August, VH1 will launch additional online elements including past performances and Divas-inspired music video playlists. Users can also follow all show-related news and details, as well as thoughts on this year’s show from other fans by following the “VH1 Divas” twitter account at http://twitter.com/vh1divas.

“An amazingly talented group of young women have successfully launched themselves into the global music scene since our last VH1 Divas show. We’re very excited to have so many of them join us at this year’s momentous event,” said Lee Rolontz, EVP, Original Music Production & Development VH1, and VH1 Classic. “Adele, Kelly, Leona and Miley have all captured the world’s attention with their talent and have earned their designation as VH1 Divas this year. Don’t let some of their young ages fool you – these women are among the best entertainers in the world and will continue to thrill music fans for a long time to come.”

Premiering on VH1 in 1998, “VH1 Divas” became synonymous with some of the most memorable live female vocal performances in television history. The show quickly became a highly anticipated annual phenomenon, generating speculation among music fans and industry executives on who would be part of that year’s telecast. Previous featured performers over the years included Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Cher, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Mary J. Blige, Shania Twain, Faith Hill, Whitney Houston and many more.

Exclusive VH1 Save The Music VIP tickets and Gold Circle ticket packages will offer premium seating to the live “VH1 Divas” concert plus pre and post party access and an exclusive gift bag. Event sponsorship opportunities are also available to the two distinctively different “VH1 Divas” Parties on the same night. For more information on tickets or to sponsor an event, please contact: Nia.Mack@vh1savethemusic.com or at 212-846-7324.

Find out more here.

Celebrity-Signed Books Up For Grabs For Charity

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Whether you are looking for a good book to read while stretched out on the beach, or – for those of you in the Southern Hemisphere – searching for something to curl up with in bed on a frosty winter’s night, there will be something for you in the SAG Foundation’s Celebrity Autographed Book Auction.

The Screen Actor’s Guild Foundation is raising money for it’s literacy programs by auctioning off books signed by your favorite stars. Going under the hammer are titles such as The Olsen Twins’ Influence, Michael J. Fox’s Always Looking Up, Heidi Klum’s Body of Knowledge, Julianne Moore’s Freckleface Strawberry and the Dodgeball Bully, Tom Colicchio’s Craft of Cooking, William Shatner’s Quest For Tomorrow, Alison Sweeney’s All The Days Of My Life, Kirk Douglas’ Let’s Face It, Jenny McCarthy’s Healing and Preventing Autism, Larry King’s My Remarkable Journey, Tori Spelling’s Mommywood, Sean Astin’s There and Back Again, John Lithgow’s The Poet’s Corner and many more.

Proceeds from the auction benefit the Screen Actors Guild Foundation’s literacy effort, which began in 1992 and now includes such programs as:

BookPALS, a volunteer program comprised of performing artists who read aloud to students in schools, hospitals and libraries.
We The Children, which teaches children the value of books and the importance of their lives by giving them the opportunity to write and illustrate their family history.
Storyline Online, an online interactive website which brings the excitement of books into the classroom and home.

The auction runs until July 28 and can be accessed here.

Join Bill Clinton For Vegan Lunch In Charity Auction

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Russell Simmons has launched an online auction to 10th anniversary Art For Life Garden Benefit Party.

Simmons will flex his charity muscles on July 18 with the Art For Life Garden party benefit on July 18th in East Hampton. The auction and event benefits Simmons’ Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation, the organization he founded with his brothers, Danny and Joseph Simmons, that connects disadvantaged youth with art programs. Held at the private East Hampton Estate of Russell Simmons, this evening will once again celebrate the creative energy of New York City youth and honor exemplary individuals in the community, including Vanessa Williams, at a star-studded dinner and gala featuring live and silent auctions of unique art and luxury items.

The online auction features the chance to join an intimate and private dinner where Bill Clinton will be hosted with 35 guests at Simmons’ private residence in New York on July 20. The others in attendance will be 35 of the most influential movers and shakers in America under the age of 35, part of the noted Summit Series. Past Summit Series attendees have included founders and top officials of companies as Zappos, Facebook, Twitter, Google, Trump International, as well as top entertainment personalities. An extraordinary vegan dinner will be prepared by world famous chef Tom Colicchio, head judge on Bravo TV’s Top Chef, and founder of NYC’s famed Craft restaurants.

Other items include the chance to meet Deepak Chopra and Ice T, yoga lessons with Simmons, meet-and-greets with Third Eye Blind and Fall Out Boy, exclusive tickets to Coldplay, and much more.

The auctions run until July 18 and can be accessed here.

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