Look To The Stars News: Veteran/Service Member Support

Musician Melanie Dekker Supports Wounded Soldiers

Wed, 02 May 2007 09:38:35 +0000

Zabit Records, a division of Sonoma Mountain Entertainment LLC, is proud to announce recording artist Melanie Dekker will be featured in an Armed Forces Network and Pentagon Channel public service announcement campaign. The PSA will reach 16 million military households in the US, as well as military personnel in 177 countries, in recognition of her Wounded Soldier and Military Family charitable efforts.

In addition, Melanie’s efforts will also be touted in an American Forces Press Service media campaign, all of which coincide with her European 2007 Spring Tour. Melanie has recently announced that from May 1 to May 31, 2007, and in honor of Military Appreciation Month, she will pledge a portion of the proceeds generated from the sale of her new CD, Revealed, to ‘America Supports You’ Home Front Member Partner Foundations, Operation: Care and Comfort, The Military, Veteran and Family Assistance Foundation and
America Supports You, a nationwide program launched by the Department of Defense, which recognizes citizens’ support for military men and women and communicates that support to members of the US Armed Forces at home and abroad.

A single on the Revealed album, titled “Fall In/Wounded Soldier,” was written by Melanie on her way to a benefit concert for The National Wounded Soldier Foundation. To support the cause that inspired the song, Melanie with her label, Zabit Records, a division of Sonoma Mountain Entertainment LLC, have pledged $1 for each copy of Revealed sold exclusively through CD Baby for the first, one million records sold. CD Baby, an international record distributor headquartered in Portland, Oregon, through President and Founder Derek Sivers, is also matching $1 for a total of $2 million pledged to the cause. Zabit Records is currently seeking other corporate and private sponsors to increase the per CD pledge to result in even greater potential contributions for this most worthy cause.

National Military Appreciation Month (May), as designated by Congress, provides a period encompassing both the history and recognition of our armed services with an in-depth look at the diversity of its individuals and achievements.

Melanie states, “I hope other artists will follow my lead in doing the same. But on stage or off, I would like to believe all of us can make a difference somehow. Make people happier. Make the world a better place.”

To support Melanie’s efforts, purchase Revealed at: http://cdbaby.com/cd/dekker2

John Ondrasik Asks What Kind Of World You Want

Tue, 08 May 2007 18:58:56 +0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

John Ondrasik of Five For Fighting has started a charity music video community. The site, www.whatkindofworlddoyouwant.com, offers the public the chance to upload videos which explain the type of world in which they want to live.

At the end of every video viewers can click on the sponsor link; each click donates up to 49 cents to one of the charities chosen by Ondrasik. He encourages submissions, saying, “There are no rules here, your film can be personal, political – write a story, tell a story – anything goes.”

The charities benefitting from the website include Fisher House Foundation, Breast Cancer 3-Day, Save the Children, Autism Speaks, Save The Music Foundation and New York Police & Fire Widows' & Children's Benefit Fund. John tells us that another charity, Augie's Quest will be added within the next few months.

For those who need more of a reason to create a video, there are prizes on offer. The grand prize winner will be chosen at random from the 20 most popular videos, and will be treated to a private concert with John Ondrasik including roundtrip airfare and lodging for two in Los Angeles.

Gary Sinise to Play Benefit Concert

Thu, 09 Aug 2007 08:38:13 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Gary Sinise is to play a concert to raise funds for a new memorial wall in Brooklyn on August 11. The Oscar nominated actor will join his rock group, The Lt. Dan Band, on stage at the Whitman Theater for an evening of entertainment, including a catalog of songs that covers everything from Jimi Hendrix to Bruce Springsteen to Evanescence.

Sinise, who plays bass guitar in the 11 piece band, hopes the gig will raise over $100,000 for the Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance, a special monument planned for Keyspan Park. The 30 by 12 foot granite wall will honor the 155 police and fire department workers from the area killed on 9/11. It will also incorporate a 6 foot high bronze statue, designed by sculptor Jamie Lester.

“It’s a beautiful memorial,” said Sinise, who has donated some of his own money to the project. “For the families of those fallen heroes, it’s going to be very, very meaningful.”

The Lt. Dan Band (named after the character Sinise played in the 1994 movie Forrest Gump) was formed by Sinise and Kimo Williams, a Chicago-based composer, and plays 30-40 shows a year. Many of their concerts benefit good causes. They have also completed five tours for the United Service Organization, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide US troops stationed around the world with morale, welfare, and recreation-based services.

“I try to do shows that can help various charities,” said Sinise, who is aware of the pulling power of his celebrity status and takes advantage of it to attract audiences. “Or support the troops.”

Sinise’s benefit work does not stop with his involvement in the band, and he has recently co-founded Operation Iraqi Children with Laura Hillenbrand (author of “Seabiscuit: An American Legend”) in an effort to help educate the young people of Iraq.

More information on the band and their charity appearances can be found at www.ltdanband.com.

Colbert's Cast on eBay

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 19:41:40 +0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

Stephen Colbert's pain is set to bring relief to injured soldiers returning to the States. The Comedy Central news presenter broke his wrist during a fall, and has decided to make the best of the situation.

“If I had known that it would give me the opportunity to help our wounded veterans, I would have shattered my triquetrum a long time ago!” Colbert said.

The now-famous cast has been signed by New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg, Katie Couric, Bill O'Reilly, Nancy Pelosi, Tim Russert, Tony Snow and Brian Williams.

It is available on eBay, with bids being accepted through Monday, September 3. Currently the bid stands at $16,900, and the winning bid will be announced on-air the week of September 10 at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT. Proceeds from the auction benefit the Yellow Ribbon Fund.

The Yellow Ribbon Fund aids injured service members and their families by offering housing, transportation, tickets to sporting and cultural events and job mentoring and internships while they recuperate at both the Walter Reed Army Medical Center and the National Naval Medical Center.

Not satisfied with breaking a bone for charity, Colbert has created a red Wrist Strong bracelet. The bracelet also supports wounded veterans through the Yellow Ribbon Fund, and can be purchased via www.colbertnation.com and www.comedycentral.com.

Goldberg, Keitel Trading for Charity

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 08:40:37 +0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

On Tuesday, September 11th, celebrity guests will join brokerage firm BGC’s third annual Charity Day, assisting the brokers to raise money for good causes. Stars such as Whoopi Goldberg, Harvey Keitel, Eli Wallach and Yogi Berra will join brokers in conducting real, live trades. 100% of the commissions raised on the day will go to charities such as Blythedale Children’s Hospital, Books for Kids Foundation, Cancer Research Institute, NARSAD Mental Health Research, Project FIND and the Wounded Warrior Project.

A different celebrity will appear on the trading floor every hour, beginning with the New York Jets’ Freeman McNeil at 9 am, Yogi Berra at 10 and Harriet Harris of Desperate Housewives and Frasier at 11. Next to arrive will be Tony Sirico of the Sopranos, who is raising funds for the Wounded Warrior Project. He will be joined by several of the brave service men and women supported by the charity.

At one o’clock, Whoopi Goldberg and Eli Wallach are scheduled to arrive. The rest of the afternoon is scheduled to feature Robert Funaro of The Sopranos; former New York Jet Boomer Esiason, Roy White, formerly of the NY Yankees, former NY Mets’ Ed Kranepool and former NY Knicks’ Earl Monroe along with NY Giants’ lineman Grey Ruegamer and the New York Red Bulls’ Joe Vide.

The above celebrities and charities are set to appear at the firm’s downtown New York trading floor, though the Charity Day is a global event. Celebrities appearing in the London and Paris offices include Sir Alex Ferguson, Rory Bremner, Chris Evans, Lisa Faulkner, Jason Flemyng, Nigel Haver, Sir Steve Redgrave, Stephane Pasquier, Paul-Henri Mathieu and Julien Benneteau.

Charities supported by the trading firm’s offices in Asia, Australia and Europe include: DebRA, Multiple Sclerosis, National Literacy Trust, Sparks, The Peter O’Sullevan Trust, UK Youth, Walk The Walk, Well Child, Wooden Spoon, Bobby Moore Fund, Chance to Shine, Chase, Honey Pot, Winston’s Wish, The Paul Hunter Foundation, Barnardo's, The Shane Warne Foundation, National Breast Cancer Foundation, Children’s Cancer Foundation, La Licorne and The Solidarity Fund (established to help victims of the fires in Greece).

BGC is a leading inter-dealer brokerage firm affiliated with Cantor Fitzgerald, the company that suffered the heaviest loss of life during the Twin Towers tragedy in New York on September 11th, 2001. BGC is proud to continue its legacy of fundraising on behalf of a wide range of charitable causes. The last two events raised $9 million, all of which was given to charity.

Johansson Donates To Sri Lankan School

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 09:43:18 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Movie star Scarlett Johansson has made a significant donation to a school in Sri Lanka, following her visit there earlier this year.

The 22 year old travelled to India and Sri Lanka with aid workers from Oxfam for 10 days in February. During the trip, Johansson visited schools and healthcare facilities, met with women who had experienced domestic violence, and also talked to survivors of the 2005 Tsunami.

“Having visited Oxfam-funded school programs in rural communities, it has made me realise how vital education is to developing countries,” said the star of “Lost In Translation” and “The Island”. “It brings people out of poverty and gives them a sense of dignity, self-worth, and confidence.”

Johansson was especially moved after spending time with children in Sri Lanka’s poverty stricken Dalit community.

“The most gratifying opportunity was visiting a Dalit school,” she said. “The Dalit community in Sri Lanka is considered the lowest status in the caste system, and children as young as four are working in the fields.”

“I met a young girl named Gudiya at the Dalit school. She was an amazing, bright young girl, full of ambition and attending fifth grade. When asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, she said “a government official”. Every morning she rises at 3am to study and then completes the household chores, before walking for half an hour to school. I asked her how she felt she would be able to raise her family and also hold a government position. She responded confidently “I can manage!” Her self pride and drive to succeed was an obvious outcome from her schooling."

There are over 40 million Dalits living in India and Sri Lanka, most of them working in slave-like conditions to pay off debts incurred in previous generations. The majority of Dalits live in segregation, and there are 110,000 registered cases of violence, murder, rape, and atrocities involving their communities every year.

“Hopefully the money I have given will financially support the school there for the next three years,” said Johansson.

“By supporting Oxfam, Scarlett is making a stand alongside millions of people globally who are working to overcome poverty,” said Jeremy Hobbs, Oxfam’s Executive Director. “Her support is crucial in helping to show how the smallest donation to Oxfam can mean the world of difference to a poor community.”

Johansson will continue with her philanthropic endeavours early next year, when she is expected to visit US troops stationed overseas for the United Service Organization.

“She will make the trip in early 2008, for about a week,” said a representative. “We can’t give out more information than that for security reasons”.

Billy Joel - A Philanthropic Man

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 10:26:01 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Billy Joel is back with his first new song since 1994 – sort of. The 58-year-old singer has made a triumphant return with “Christmas in Fallujah”, a protest song about the war in Iraq, with proceeds going to charity.

“I guess [it’s] just a cumulative effect of this war,” said the Grammy winning singer about how he came to write the song. “We’ve been there longer than World War II. I’ve been getting mail from service people over there, and there seemed to be a similar theme running through the letters, which was a sense of alienation from the home front. I think a lot of people are starting to feel like they’re forgotten.”

However, don’t expect to hear Joel’s trademark piano on the recording – in fact, don’t expect to hear much of Joel himself. The semi-retired entertainer decided to let a young musician from Long Island, 21-year-old Cass Dillon, take the lead vocals.

“I wanted to help somebody else’s career,” said Joel. “I’ve had plenty of hits. I’ve had plenty of airplay. I’ve had my time in the sun. I think it’s time for somebody else, maybe, to benefit from my own experience.”

Proceeds from the song, available on iTunes, will go to Home For Our Troops, a non-profit organization that builds specially adapted homes for severely disabled veterans returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan. It is a cause close to the singer’s heart, and earlier this year he contributed to Five For Fighting frontman John Ondrasik's CD produced exclusively for troops stationed overseas. The compilation also featured songs donated by Sarah McLachlan and Josh Groban.

“I don’t get up on a soapbox and do political messages,” said Joel in Rolling Stone Magazine. “I believe in talking about the human being, and the conditions humans find themselves in. I never liked it when a rock star got up on stage and told people how to vote. I find it insulting. But I believe if an artist feels strongly about something, it should be reflected in their art. Ultimately, everything’s political. Even love is political.”

Billy Joel is certainly no stranger to philanthropy, a fact that was recognized when he was honored as MusiCares Person of the Year in 2002 for his accomplishments as a humanitarian. Joel is well known as being a supporter of several causes, and contributes regularly to organizations around his hometown of Long Island. Over the years he has played benefit concerts for Charity Begins At Home, Farm Aid, USA For Africa, several AIDS groups, the United Service Organization, as well as many concerts to raise money for environmental causes, such as Sting's Rainforest Benefit Concerts in the late 1990s, and Don Henley's Concert For Walden Woods. While on tour in Japan in 1994, Joel experienced the disastrous Kobe earthquake, and donated the proceeds from several shows to relief efforts.

Joel’s record for benefit concerts looks set to continue into 2008, with the singer being booked to headline the Soles4Souls Opening Night at WSA concert on February 21 at Orleans Arena, Las Vegas.

Soles4Souls is a non-profit organization with a simple aim – to change the world, one pair of shoes at a time. The foundation was established by Wayne Elsey during the Asian Tsunami in December, 2004, with the idea to donate shoes to people devastated by the disaster. A quarter of a million shoes were donated by shoe companies and individuals, and another three quarters of a million were donated after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

“I’m happy to be able to help people with such a simple mission,” said Elsey. “The growth of this organization has been rapid and I am excited to get involved on a daily basis so that I can devote more time to a cause that makes a difference in people’s lives.”

The benefit concert will be hosted by Miss Massachusetts 2005, Cristina Nardozzi, who appeared in the movie “Ocean’s Thirteen” and also hosts “The Good Show”, a celebrity-driven television program that features stars and their favorite celebrities.

Tickets are available at www.openingnightatwsa.com.

Celebrities' Festive Gifts

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 11:21:24 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A pledge to walk one of the biggest man-made structures in the world, a successful celebrity auction, a tour of far away places, and a donation of time and energy were just some of the ways celebrities gave to the poor, the sick, and those unable to spend time with their families this Christmas.

Singer Olivia Newton-John met with the founders of Welsh breast cancer charity In The Pink over Christmas to discuss fund raising opportunities, and revealed her plans to walk the length of the Great Wall of China in April. Proceeds from the walk will go to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Centre in Australia, and the 59-year-old breast cancer survivor will also donate items to In The Pink to auction later in the year.

Meanwhile, socialite Kathy Hilton organized a charity auction over Christmas, featuring a selection of items donated by some of her famous friends. Mel Gibson's jeans, Tom Cruise's sunglasses, and an Ocean’s Thirteen script signed by the movie’s stars, including George Clooney and Brad Pitt, raised money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“Christmas is my favorite time of the year,” said Hilton, mother of Paris Hilton. “I have worked with Make-A-Wish before, and I wanted to do something really special. Hopefully… I’ll make it an annual event.”

Robin Williams, Lance Armstrong, Kid Rock, and Lewis Black were also busy over the festive season, and joined current Miss USA Rachel Smith on a 14 show tour with the USO in Afghanistan.

The shows were well received by soldiers from all nations, stationed away from their homes and families this Christmas.

“Afghanistan is sometimes called the forgotten war,” said one soldier who watched the shows. “We don’t get a lot of attention here, and conditions are pretty miserable. So it means a lot.”

The USO organized 52 celebrity tours in 2007 – which included over 300 shows.

And in Los Angeles, Jennifer Love Hewitt joined her new fiancé Ross McCall, as well as Melissa Joan Hart and Melissa Gilbert, to dish out dinners to the needy at the Los Angeles Mission.

“I have made it a point to come to the Los Angeles Mission at Christmas,” said the 28-year-old actress. “There are so many hurting people on the streets of our city, but when I’m here I get to see the smiles of the children and the great food for everyone. I come to give something back, but invariably I get more blessings than I give.”

2008 Golden Globes Roundup

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 09:54:19 +0000

Written by Crystal A. Johnson

There may have been no red carpet, acceptance speeches, or flash of cameras for the winners of the 2008 Golden Globe Awards, but Look To The Stars takes this golden opportunity to recognize some of those who were honored and nominated.

Johnny Depp won his first Golden Globe after being nominated seven times since his career began, picking up the Best Actor in a Comedy or Musical award for Sweeney Todd. Despite his dark performance, there really is a lighter side to the actor. In the past, Depp’s charitable work garnered him the Courage to Care Award for his contributions to the Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

The Best Actress Award went to veteran Julie Christie, who was up against heavyweights such as Angelina Jolie, an outstanding supporter and contributor to charitable causes. Some of the charities she has supported include the Afghanistan Relief Organization, the Alliance For The Lost Boys, Fran Drescher's Cancer Schmancer Movement, Doctors Without Borders, and the Daniel Pearl Foundation.

Daniel Day Lewis won Best Actor for his performance in “There Will Be Blood”, beating out celebrity humanitarians George Clooney and Denzel Washington. Like Jolie, Clooney is a major force in trying to make the world a better place, and he is a noted supporter of Cinema For Peace, Make Poverty History, Rock For Darfur, United Way, and the World Food Programme. Washington has spent time visiting wounded soldiers at Fisher Houses, hospitals which provide housing for injured soldiers’ families at little or no cost, and once made a large donation to the Fisher House Foundation. He is also the spokesperson for the Boys' and Girls' Clubs of America, honorary chairperson for Save Africa's Children, and a founding member of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund.

Australian-born Cate Blanchett took home the gold in the category for Best Supporting Actress. Charities Blanchett supports include the Australian Conservation Foundation, Kids Help Line, and SolarAid. In the past, Blanchett filmed a special appeal for SolarAid that was screened at the Hay Festival. The video is available to view on YouTube.

Queen Latifah took home the Golden Globe award for Best Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries, for her role in “Life Support”. A supporter of several charities, Queen Latifah once helped design a pair of shoes for the Stuart Weitzman charity shoe auction benefiting ovarian cancer awareness and research, and has been involved with Citymeals On Wheels and the Harry Holmberg Memorial Foundation.

Jeremy Piven beat his “Entourage” co-star Kevin Dillon to win his second award for Best Supporting TV Actor. Piven once hosted the fourth annual Fashion Rocks event, which benefited Alicia Keys' Keep A Child Alive Foundation.

Congratulations to all the winners and the nominees for all the work that you do in front of the camera and behind the scenes to inspire a better world.

Celebrities Kept Busy With Charity Initiatives

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:34:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Philanthropic celebrities have been more than busy lately, helping charities through a series of unique and exciting initiatives and events.

Although the current Hollywood writers’ strike is keeping the 2008 Academy Awards up in the air, model Heidi Klum has announced she will press ahead with her plans to donate the red dress she intends to wear at the Oscar ceremony to charity.

The donation is part of the “Red Dress Program”, an initiative between Diet Coke and the National Institutes of Health’s The Heart Truth to raise awareness of heart disease in women.

“Heidi Klum’s participation helps make this program even bigger, and gives consumers a great way to become involved and learn more about a crucial women’s health issue,” said Caren Pasquale Seckler, Group Director for Coca-Cola North America. “Through the Diet Coke Red Dress Program, we’re asking consumers to help us support women’s heart health and giving them the chance to win a one-of-a-kind red dress worn to the Oscars by Heidi Klum.”

The dress will be made available as part of a contest at www.mycokerewards.com, and for every sweepstakes entry, Diet Coke will donate $1 (up to a total of $250,000) in support of women’s heart health research and awareness.

Klum will also hit the catwalk on February 1 during The Red Dress Collection Fashion Show at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York. The show will feature a range of dresses created by top fashion designers to show their support of the Heart Truth campaign.

Comedian Stephen Colbert has also recently made a donation to charity, with $171,525 being gifted to the Yellow Ribbon Fund, a charity that assists injured service members and their families.

The mock talk show host raised the money through the sale of his “WristStrong” bracelets, which were made available as part of his “Wrist Awareness” campaign started when he broke his wrist last June.

The tongue-in-cheek campaign saw celebrities such as Katie Couric, Brian Williams, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg wearing the bracelets. It followed the sale of the cast from Colbert’s broken wrist, which raised $17,000 for the Yellow Ribbon Fund.

Another well-known figure to make a donation to charity lately was Hip Hop mogul Russell Simmons, who gifted $300,000 to the Diamond Empowerment Fund last week.

Simmons established the Fund in 2007 to provide resources for education programs designed to motivate Africans in countries where diamonds are mined. The donation comes from money raised from the Simmons Jewelry Green Initiative, a collection of bracelets made from green malachite and rough diamonds. Beyoncé Knowles, Vanessa Hudgens, and Mischa Barton are all reported to be owners of the bracelets.

In a completely different sort of initiative, singer KT Tunstall and Blur bassist Alex James are among celebrities teaming up to write an upcoming children’s book for charity.

The musicians will join a host of stars recruited by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children for the initiative. Each celebrity will write ten lines of the story before passing it on to the next person to continue.

The final product will be revealed in a one-off reading session before being auctioned off later in the year.

And finally, British television personality Jonathan Ross has challenged comedian Jimmy Carr to a celebrity doubles tennis match that will see the entertainers paired up with 1997 US Open finalist Greg Rusedski and 1987 Wimbledon winner Pat Cash.

The match – which will take place at London’s Albert Hall on March 14 – is part of Sport Relief 2008, a fundraising initiative from Comic Relief. Money raised will go towards helping vulnerable people living in the UK and the world’s poorest countries.

Celebrity Apprentice Raises Over One Million Dollars

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 12:42:16 +0000

Written by Crystal A. Johnson

Donald Trump's first season of Celebrity Apprentice helped many worthy causes. Stephen Baldwin won more than once for his charity of choice named for his mother, the Carol M. Baldwin Cancer Research Fund. However, the final two on Thursday night’s finale were the tenacious Brit Piers Morgan versus the American cowboy Trace Adkins in the quest to become the first Celebrity Apprentice to win $250,00 for their cause.

Morgan is recognized in the US as a judge on America’s Got Talent and known in the UK for Britain’s Got Talent, in addition to his work as a tabloid editor. The tough as nails competitor won nine out of eleven competitions and raised over $500,000 for his designated charity, the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund. Trump helped Morgan add to his total to the tune of $250,00 as he was dubbed the Celebrity Apprentice winner. Critics say that he played dirty. Morgan states that he played the game to win money for his cause.

Morgan beat 12 other celebrities competing to win money for their charity of choice. Final two opponent Adkins was raising funds for the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. His motivation to win was driven by his six year old daughter’s severe food allergies. The country singer performed a song which can be downloaded from the NBC website at cost to contribute fund’s for the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network.

Charles Barkley’s Pro Team Sports Challenge for Charity

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 07:40:40 +0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Four Teams, four captains, and four charities! On June 7-8th, in Palm Springs California, the Pro Team Sports Challenge will finally settle the debate as to which athletes are the best golfers. Led by Team Challenge Commissioner and NBA legend Charles Barkley, the two-day golf event will pit some of the best athletes from four sports – baseball, basketball, hockey, and football – against each other on the greens. The event will raise money for four different charities while introducing a cool new feature: fan interaction.

During the course of the event, fan interaction will influence the outcome of the game; think ‘American Idol’ meets sports. Fans can sign up at Team Challenge to become one of the ‘ProCoaches.’ ProCoaches will act as ‘virtual’ coaches from their computers or mobile devices, where they can make strategic decisions that will have a real impact on the outcome of the match. Do you think Team Hockey has a more competitive edge with their roster of established pros? Then get online, vote, blog, debate and trash talk with those who think Team Football has better golfers. You could actually win a spot on the greens and walk with your favorite Team inside the ropes as a ProCoach.

The $250,000 prize will be split among the designated charities for each team, as selected by the Team Captain. First place earns $100,000 for their selected charity; second place $75k; third place $50k; fourth place $25k. Additionally, the purse will increase for a charity by $1 for each fan that registers as a paid ProCoach for the sponsoring team. But you must register before May 19 in order to cast your votes, decide which players are playing better or worse than their stated handicaps, and help raise money for the selected charities.

You’ve got, of course, Sir Charles in charge of Team Basketball, Drew Brees leading Team Football, Ozzie Smith taking the reins of Team Baseball, and hockey great Mario Lemieux keeping his Team Hockey in check.

The team captains spoke about the event last week and revealed which charities they selected.

“This is one of the most unique events I’ve ever played in.” said Drew Brees. “To find four guys from major sports and bring them together in a fun atmosphere – it’s incredible. I’m gonna have a chance to meet and play with guys I’ve watched growing up – Hall of Famers, world champions.”

Brees also spoke sincerely about playing for charity: "Our charity is Operation Kids. Its an international charity whose mission is to care for the total wellbeing of the child. They focus on education and healthcare for kids, and they’ve done some phenomenal things."

Baseball team Captain Ozzie Smith was equally as enthusiastic about participating and raising money at the same time: "To have all these guys at the same place at the same time makes it a great event. My charity is Baseball Assistance Team (BAT), they assist families and players that have fallen on hard times, older players who didn’t reap the benefits of long contracts."

Hockey team Captain, Mario Lemieux, spoke about his participation: “Just having the fans involved at the same time and, most importantly, to raise money for some great charities.” His charity? Hockey Fights Cancer. “Its been going on for a few years, and helps those who’ve had cancer – I’m one of them. in 1993 I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease, so it’s very dear to my heart.”

Commissioner Barkley, whose charity is the United Service Organization, was not available for the press-call, and Drew Brees opined as to why: “I’m sure he’s strategizing as we speak.” Brees has his own strategy: “Everybody has their own little ritual, I just grip it and rip it!” he said.

The Pro Team Sports Challenge will be held on June 7-8th in Palm Springs, California, at the Eagle Falls Golf Course.

Tony Soprano - Still Making His Mark From Beyond The Grave

Wed, 28 May 2008 11:36:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Is Tony Soprano really dead? Well, one thing is for certain – you can now get hold of his clothes in a new charity auction.

James Gandolfini, who starred on the hit HBO series The Sopranos for six seasons, is selling off 24 outfits, including the button-down blue shirt he wore in the opening credits and the bathrobe he donned to fetch the morning newspaper. The lots will go under the hammer in a Christie’s pop culture auction in New York on June 25, with all proceeds going to a charity that helps wounded U.S. troops.

Also up for grabs are a selection of costumes worn by other “Sopranos” characters, including Junior Soprano, Paulie Walnuts and A.J. Soprano, although the proceeds for these items will not go to charity.

The beneficiary of Gandolfini’s wardrobe is the Wounded Warrior Project, a nonprofit group that assists severely wounded soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“The Wounded Warrior Project is thankful for James Gandolfini’s commitment to our organization,” said John Melia, WWP Executive Director and founder. “His public support and generous donation gives a worldwide voice to the severely wounded men and women WWP assists. Our motto is ‘The Greatest Casualty is Being Forgotten’, and with Mr Gandolfini’s support, we will ensure this doesn’t happen.”

Estimates for the costumes start at $500, and Gandolfini’s items are expected to reach up to $36,500.

More information can be found at www.christies.com.

Charles Barkley and Buddies Tee Off For Charity

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:38:00 +0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Legendary athlebrities from football, baseball, basketball and hockey, gathered under the hot desert sun on June 7 and 8 to raise money and awareness for several very worthwhile causes. The Pro Sports Team Challenge Golf Tournament at the Eagle Falls Golf Club at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino (near Palm Springs, California) settled the debate as to which sport has the best golfers, while competing for a total purse of $250,000 for chairty.

Team Basketball hit the greens for the USO. Led by NBA great Charles Barkley and featuring his buddies Clyde Drexler, Jason Kidd, George Gervin and Kenny Smith, the team made every swing count in efforts to help comfort our hardworking military. While Barkley was psyched for the event, he didn’t have high expectations for his team.

“One of the highlights of my life was [when] the USO took me to Iraq, Kuwait, Dubai,” said Barkley during the event. “I got to visit with some of the troops. So it’s a great organization and, um, unfortunately we’re not going to win a lot of money for them because my team [Basketball] sucks!”

But the event wasn’t marred by the lack of golf talent, as inspiration was the forerunner of the competition.

“Many athletes, like Charles Barkley and John Elway, have spent their holidays, vacations and precious free time to thank our nation’s heroes for their daily sacrifices," said Kathy Mejasich, the Vice President of Corporate Alliances for the USO. “The difference they make in the morale of the troops is more than just palpable, but energizing and inspiring.”

Team Basketball also spent some time with 20 year-old Brandon Akey, who was flown out from Ohio to play with the big boys after winning an online competition.

“I’m only 20 years old and this is only the second time I’ve been out of Ohio – the last time I took a trip was to Florida when I was a kid, and suddenly I’m here playing golf with these guys.” Brandon played in the Pro-Am with basketball legend, George Gervin. “He was such a good guy. Whenever we hit bad shots he was really cool and supportive, he said ’that’s all right, we’re a team, it’s like basketball.’”

Also inspiring was Team Football, who didn’t stop grinning all weekend as they polished their putters in the hope of earning a hefty donation for Operation Kids. Led by Team Captain Drew Brees and including LaDainian Tomlinson, John Elway and Michael Strahan, the team brought style, smiles, class and sass to the event.

“I just love helping kids,” said NFL good guy Michael Strahan. “When they see any player come to spend some time with them, their faces light up and they share their hopes and ambitions and dreams with us. I can’t even begin to tell you how good it made me feel.”

Rest assured, Strahan was speaking from the heart. There wasn’t one child in attendance that the big guy didn’t stop for. In fact, all the players involved were constantly chatting with young starry-eyed kids as they tousled their hair before signing footballs, programs, posters, and even jerseys being worn by ‘soccer moms’.

Team Hockey, led by cancer survivor Mario Lemieux, chose Hockey Fights Cancer as their beneficiary. Lemieux, Brett Hull, Grant Fuhr and Pierre Larouche went into the competition with an edge, seeing as they all have notorious golf skills.

During Friday’s Pro-Am event, one lucky sweepstakes winner enjoyed a round with the big boys. Matt Lesage, who has little golf experience, was a bit nervous going into the competition when he learned he was playing with Team Hockey. “I played with Pierre Larouche in the Pro-Am,” he said, “Mario Lemieux, Pierre, Grant, all those guys were so nice. Pierre is a great guy and I’ve got nothing but good things to say about him. At first, I was a bit skeptical on how the athletes were going to act towards someone like me, not being a big golfer, but they were all class acts and they couldn’t have been nicer.”

While Lesage was hyped to play golf, he was also keen on the fact that this was for charity, “I heard Team Hockey talking about Hockey Fights Cancer, and a lot of people in my family had cancer so it made me really happy to be part of it. All these guys inspired me.”

Team Baseball captain Ozzie Smith led George Brett, Vince Coleman and Bret Saberhagen around the greens as they swung away for the Baseball Assistance Team (B.A.T.) in efforts to help the families of players who have fallen on tough times.

“B.A.T. provides assistance to members of the ‘baseball family’ who are in need…We help take care of health care, medical, housing, burial, utilities, household expenses and prescriptions,” wrote Erik Nilsen of B.A.T. “It’s an honor to be nominated by Ozzie Smith, a Hall of Famer who truly understands the history of our organization.”

The big question remains though – which team brought home the first place $100,000 prize for their charity and which teams split the remaining purse? You’ll have to watch the Fox Sports Net broadcast on Saturday 6/28 and Sunday 6/29 to find out. It was a great competition, filled with lots of trash talking and love coming from the participants, but in the end all of the charities came out winners thanks to the dedication of these mighty mighty fine men.

Special celebrities lending their time to the event included Hercules star Kevin Sorbo, actor Dennis Haysbert (The Unit_), Actor/producer Matthew Hatchette (_The Take), and comedian Martin Short provided some comical poolside entertainment during the VIP party.

If you’d like to make a donation to any of the ProTeam charities named, you can still visit the Team Challenge website and sign up as a ProCoach – $1.00 from each participant will go to the charity of your choice.

There'll Be Feuding And Fighting Between Celebrities... All For Charity

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 11:32:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Celebrity Family Feud is set to invade primetime next week, when it premieres on Tuesday, June 24, on NBC.

Hosted by Al Roker, the familiar show will get a star twist when 24 celebrity “families” front up to do battle on behalf of their favorite charities. First up in next week’s maiden broadcast are Law & Order: SVU star Ice-T and family – playing for Unity 2 – going up against Team Rivers, led by the queens of the red carpet, Joan and Melissa Rivers, playing for Guide Dogs for the Blind.

During each episode of the new series, four celebrity families will be pitted against each other in tournament-style fun and games, with the winners from each round moving on to the final round — where they’ll compete to win up to $50,000 for their designated charity.

Other stars to compete on the show will include Vivica Fox, Raven Symone, Kim Kardashian, and teams from The Office and My Name Is Earl, and charities such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the USO, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation will benefit.

Kellie Pickler Picks A Tune For The AARP

Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:30:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Country singer Kellie Pickler is well known for her support of charities such as the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the USO, but lately she has had the elderly on her mind, and has been devoting her time and money to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).

“I love working with different charities, but the big foundations and organizations already get so much exposure and so much attention,” Pickler told CMT recently. “I wanted to bring awareness to a smaller charity that might not have gotten that kind of attention had I not helped them. The AARP is amazing, and I can really relate to it. My grandparents raised me, so I know the struggles that they have to go through financially and legally and all that.”

And the 19-year-old singer has certainly been putting her money where her mouth is – she donated $25,000 of prize money from her appearance on Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader to the charity, and recently performed at the AARP-sponsored Grand Rally outside the Capitol building in Washington, DC.

“It was just to bring awareness and educate people about the situation,” she said. “There were so many grandmas and grandpas there at the show. I spoke on my experience and living with my grandparents, sang a couple of songs, and actually performed a song I wrote about my grandmother. It was really a magical day, a very special day. What a lot of people don’t know is that four-and-a-half million kids in America are raised by their grandparents, and over seven million are part-time with their grandparents. It’s really amazing to see how much those numbers have grown, and really sad. It’s great to get out and help these elderly people who are struggling but want to take on the responsibility of raising their grandkids because it’s better than having them thrown into foster care.”

Tony Soprano's Clothes Make A Killing For Charity

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 14:30:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Tony Soprano always got what he wanted, and it seems this is true in charity as well as life. The auction of costumes from the long-running HBO series The Sopranos has raised $187,750 for an organization that aids wounded soldiers.

Twenty five outfits worn by James Gandolfini in the series went under the hammer at Christies in New York on Wednesday, with proceeds going to the Wounded Warrior Project. The actor, who produced and appeared in the TV special Memories, Home From Iraq, attended the auction with a wounded soldier from the non-profit organization.

The biggest sale of the day came from Tony Soprano’s blood splattered trousers, undershirt and shirt, worn when the mob boss was gunned down by Uncle Junior in Season Six of the series. The outfit was snapped up for $43,750. Also up for sale were the boxer shorts and blue bathrobe belonging to the iconic character, which went out the door for $21,250.

All of the costumes were authenticated by Gandolfini, and most of them had their original production tags still attached.

Tom Arnold To Auction Motorcycle

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 13:30:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Actor Tom Arnold will be auctioning off a very special motorcycle next month for a couple of very special charities.

The 49-year-old actor will join fellow motorcycle enthusiasts at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum in Pickerington, Ohio, over the next two days to celebrate the grand opening of the Museum’s latest exhibit, “MotoStars: Celebrities and Motorcycles.”

The exhibition will include over 100 of the America’s most passionate celebrity motorbike enthusiasts, their motorcycles and personal memorabilia, and one of the most talked-about items on display is a 2008 Victory Vision Street motorcycle commissioned by Arnold for a charity auction to be held on eBay next month. The bike was designed by special effects wizard Stan Winston, who passed away earlier this month. The design of the bike was inspired by the current box office hit Iron Man – the last movie Winston worked on.

Proceeds from the auction will go to two of Arnold’s favorite charities, Camp del Corazon and Operation Homefront, and the motorcycle will remain on display in “MotoStars” until the winning bidder takes it home in August.

Tiger Woods Foundation Wants Cell Phones For Soldiers

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:30:00 +0000

Written by Dawn Fantasia

“This event means a lot to me,” wrote Tiger Woods in a note to his fans expressing his appreciation for their outpouring of support for the AT&T National, in which 120 of the world’s best players will compete for the AT&T National tournament trophy and $6 million in prize money at the Congressional Country Club in Bethesday, MD, on July 2-6.

The opening ceremony will include performances by the U.S. Air Force Ceremonial Brass Quintet, the Joint Honor Guard representing the five branches of the military.

“I wanted this year’s ceremony to honor the men and women who serve in our military and their families,” Tiger Woods said. “I grew up in a military household, which gave me an understanding of the sacrifices these soldiers and their families make for all of us. It’s our way of saying thanks to them.”

“I’m really looking forward to playing the AT&T National. It’s a world-class venue that should provide a great week of competition,” said Fred Couples, who holds 15 PGA TOUR victories and will be participating in the AT&T National’s ceremonial first shot on Wednesday, July 2. Davis Love III, who holds 19 PGA TOUR titles, added: “Congressional has one of the greatest courses in the U.S. and I wouldn’t pass up an opportunity to compete on the Blue Course.”

Tournament officials announced that other top golfers committed to the 120-player field include KJ Choi, Rocco Mediate, Zach Johnson, Anthony Kim, Stuart Appleby, J.B. Holmes, Ryuji Imada, Paul Goydos, Bart Bryant, Jeff Quinney, Daniel Chopra, D.J. Trahan, Fred Funk and Charles Howell III, Notay Begay, Chris Riley, Olin Browne, Billy Andra and many more.

Children ages 13-18 will have the opportunity to participate in the First Pump Challenge at a station in the Grove at Hole 11 by sharing their proudest moments and greatest achievements with Tiger Woods. Children at home can also participate in this challenge online by submitting an essay or video about their “first pump moment” to the Tiger Woods Foundation at www.tigerwoodsfoundation.org.

AT&T has donated more than $500,000 worth of prepaid phone cards to Cell Phones for Soldiers. During the tournament you will receive free postage at the AT&T Digital Clubhouse to mail your old cell phone to the organization. If you are not planning on attending, you can still help out by dropping your old cell phone off any AT&T store.

For more information, go to www.att.com/pressroom/soldiers. Tickets for the tournament start at just $25 and can be ordered by calling 1-800-594-TIXX or visiting the tournament website at www.attnational.org.

Martin Johnson To Pull On The Sprigs For Charity

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:30:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Former captain of the English rugby team Martin Johnson will lace up his boots one more time for charity.

Johnson, the new manager of the English team, has agreed to play in the Help for Heroes match at Twickenham in September that will raise money for British service personnel injured in Iraq and Afghanistan. He will line up in the Heroes XV alongside Lawrence Dallaglio, making it the first time the two players haved played together since their triumphant 2003 World Cup final.

“When Lawrence asked me to play, I didn’t hesitate, " said Johnson, who retired from playing in 2005. " I’ve kept myself fit. This will be the first and, I’m sure, the last time that I will play in a competitive match. The cause is a superb one."

The Rugby Football Union has donated the use of Twickenham for the match – the first time they have ever done so. Dallaglio will captain the Heroes XV in the charity game, while the International XV will be skippered by Scott Gibbs.

“Our target is to reach a sell-out at Twickenham and to raise £1 million for Help for Heroes, so I urge everyone to do their bit, buy a ticket and enjoy a good day out for an excellent cause,” said Johnson.

The match will take place on September 20, and more players will be announced next week.

Eat With The Sopranos... If You Dare

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 13:30:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Fans of the Sopranos will be licking their lips in anticipation at a new charity auction to hit the World Wide Web this week.

Charity Folks – the online charity auction specialists – are hosting an exciting opportunity to benefit the United Service Organization, and are offering bidders the chance to meet and eat with some of the stars from the hit TV show. One lucky winner and three friends will join Tony Sirico and Steve Schirripa – otherwise known as Paulie Walnuts and Bobby Balcala – for an intimate dining experience at New York City’s Giardino’s Restaurant and enjoy the ambiance only members of New Jersey’s most beloved crime family can provide.

And if you can’t get to New York to be part of that unique dinner, perhaps you would like to spend an evening dining with Jon Voight in Los Angeles. The USO is also offering a meet and eat experience with the 69-year-old Academy Award winner.

The USO is the only organization chartered by the US Congress to meet the human service needs of American Armed Forces personnel and their families. Their mission is to provide morale, welfare and recreation-type services to men and women in uniform.

Both auctions run until August 5 and have already reached bids of $2,500.

Royals To Attend James Bond Premiere

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:30:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Prince William and Prince Harry will do their best for Her Majesty’s Secret Service when they attend the world premiere of the 22nd James Bond film – Quantum of Solace – in October.

The premiere will take place on October 29 at London’s Odeon Cinema on Leicester Square and – at the request of the princes – will benefit Help for Heroes and The Royal British Legion. Joining the two Royals on the red carpet will be the film’s leading actors Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Olga Kurylenko, Mathieu Amalric, and Gemma Arterton.

“We are thrilled Prince William and Prince Harry have agreed to attend the world premiere of our latest James Bond film,” said the film’s producers, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli. “[We] are pleased this event will help raise much needed funds to support the servicemen of our country through The Princes’ chosen charities.”

Help for Heroes is a charity aimed at helping injured service personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan launched in October of 2007. It raised £6 million (US$12 million) within its first nine months to help provide a swimming pool and gym complex at the tri-services rehabilitation centre in Surrey, and now continue to raise money to ensure that the wounded get the best practical help and support available.

The Royal British Legion was established in 1921 to protect the interests, welfare and memory of those who are currently serving, or have served, in the Armed Forces and their dependants. Nearly 10.5 million people of all ages are eligible for the Legion’s support, and the call on the charity’s welfare services is increasing.

Quantum of Solace is released internationally on October 31.

Trace Adkins To Visit Troops In The Gulf

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 11:30:00 +0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Country singer Trace Adkins is planning to visit and perform for U.S. troops stationed in the Persian Gulf.

The 46-year-old – who was awarded with the United Service Organization's Service Medal in 2007 – will perform for troops as part of a tour sponsored by the Armed Forces Entertainment, which marks his first trip back to the Persian Gulf since 2002.

“I’m really humbled by the opportunity to spend more time with our nation’s finest,” said the singer, who has charted more than 25 hit songs on Billboard’s country music charts and released seven studio albums. “This is such an honor for me to be able to visit with our military and tell them how much we truly appreciate all the sacrifices they make for our country and our freedom.”

During his week-long trip, Adkins will perform for troops, visit remote forward operating bases, sign autographs and pose for pictures. He will also share personal accounts of how he started out in the music industry, talk one-on-one with troops and extend his heartfelt gratitude to those currently serving overseas in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring.

To learn about other artists touring for the USO, visit their current schedule.

Lap Of Honour To Support British Forces

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 11:30:00 +0000

Written by Steve Purcell

A Mini is being driven around the UK in support of the British Forces Foundation, collecting the signatures of 50 top British celebrities.

The car began its 10-month-long “Lap of Honour” journey on June 11, with an inaugural signature from opera star Katherine Jenkins, and has so far collected further signatures from Hugh Grant, Michael Caine, author Frederick Forsyth, Dame Judi Dench and James Blunt.

The Lap of Honour will culminate in the BFF’s 10th anniversary concert at the Royal Albert Hall next April. The concert line-up will feature the stars who have entertained British troops overseas, including Blunt, Jenkins and seasoned rockers Status Quo.

Following the concert, the car and an accompanying signed photo album will be auctioned off to raise funds for the Foundation.

Affleck Tops Charity Stars in Denver

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:30:00 +0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

Denver saw an outpouring of celebrity love during last week’s DNC, with Ben Affleck leading the philanthropic pack.

On the Tuesday night, Affleck took part in a poker tournament, along with Richard Dreyfuss and Montel Williams, which ultimately raised over $60,000 for the Paralyzed Veterans of America.

“A lot of important organizations use this environment and the people who are here, celebrities, members of Congress, to try and raise money. This is not a Democratic or Republican group, this is a group serving our veterans,” Affleck said of the charity.

Wednesday morning, the Pearl Harbor star was down at a local food bank, the Food Bank of the Rockies, to participate in a repack event for Feeding America. Also on hand for the event were members of the Senate Hunger Caucus and members of the House – all there to see who could pack the most boxes of food in five minutes. Affleck, incidentally, won both the poker and the packing events.

He was joined by wife Jennifer Garner for a book reading at the Starz Green Room. Also set to attend were Charlize Theron, Daryl Hannah, Rosario Dawson, Kerry Washington, Josh Brolin, Kal Penn, Stuart Townsend and Hill Harper.

Jennifer Lopez spoke at a reception sponsored by the Jennifer Lopez Foundation in honor of Marian Wright Edelman, founder of the Children's Defense Fund. Fran Drescher, Ashley Judd and Joy Bryant joined Lopez in honoring Edelman.

The Black Eyed Peas performed at the Fillmore Auditorium for the Creative Coalition, and Kanye West performed at a party benefitting the ONE Campaign. Forest Whitaker, Kal Penn and Jamie Foxx were in attendance at the latter.

Moby performed at a private party for DoSomething.org, and Willie Nelson sang out for the people of Darfur at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

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