Look To The Stars News: Stand Up To Cancer

Jim Parsons Makes A Big Bang For Charity

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:00:00 -0000

Big Bang Theory’s Jim Parsons has launched a special video for Stand Up To Cancer.

The Up2 You + Me Video was directed by Jesse Selwyn with the song written and performed by Zach Selwyn. The new humorous call to action video captures Parsons at his comedic best playing 30 characters, requiring 30 costume changes, which were all in keeping with the funny song lyrics. People will also be able to see the video on StandUp2Cancer.org.  

“In writing the song, we wanted to communicate a serious and important message in a fun and light-hearted way,” said songwriter Zach Selwyn. “It was a thrill to work with Jim who weathered through 30 costume changes in a 12 hour day and never lost his spirit. We hope our fellow gamers will be inspired to join SU2C in the fight against cancer.”

  The campaign also encourages users to support SU2C by texting, calling and visiting the organization’s website to donate. In addition, Xbox LIVE members are able to download the SU2C theme and gamer pics to show their support for the cause through the Xbox LIVE community.   

The Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) movement raises funds to hasten the pace of groundbreaking translational research that can get new therapies to patients quickly and save lives. SU2C is a program of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) and was founded by a group of media, entertainment and philanthropic leaders whose lives have been affected by cancer in significant ways.  

Founded in May, 2008, Stand Up To Cancer has raised more than $100 million for cancer research.

To watch the video, click here.

Katie Couric, Julianne Moore, Julianna Margulies Talk Charity

Sat, 06 Feb 2010 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Ladies Home Journal has profiled 3 celebrity women who work hard for charity – Katie Couric, Julianne Moore and Julianna Margulies.

Katie Couric is a co-founder of the Entertainment Industry Foundation's National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance, and is also involved with Stand Up To Cancer.

“It would be criminal not to take advantage of these professional gifts I’ve been given,” she tells the magazine. "I have a bully pulpit from which to communicate a message and educate people. Helping to raise awareness and research dollars is my way of putting my fingerprint on the world in a positive way.

“Getting involved in the fight against colon cancer offset the helplessness I felt. My daughters got involved, too. They would have bake sales or lemonade stands and all the money would go to colon cancer research. Now whenever I see a lemonade stand, I want to know if the proceeds are going to a charity. I guilt the kids out.”

Julianna Margulies is involved with Project A.L.S., and speaks of her passion for the charity.

“As a celebrity, it’s my responsibility to give a voice to a cause. That’s what I can do to help. But when I meet the doctors who’ve been working with Project A.L.S. and learn about their research, I feel so inadequate. They’re the ones who are doing amazing things.”

Julianne Moore is an advocate for Save the Children, and is currently spearheading her annual Valentine’s Day card campaign for the charity.

“Because of this ridiculous celebrity I have, I’m able to draw attention to a cause I care about,” says Moore. “Children cannot help themselves. They need our help, and that’s what this is about.”

To read the full profiles and what the women have to say about charity, visit the Ladies Home Journal website.

Stars Stand Up To Cancer On Demand

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Comcast Corporation and Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) have joined together to create the first-ever video-on-demand (VOD) initiative Stand Up 2 Cancer On Demand to broaden awareness and raise critical funds for innovative cancer research.

Debuting exclusively on Comcast beginning December 15th, Stand Up 2 Cancer On Demand will feature an extraordinary library of musical entertainment including hundreds of music videos from many of the world’s biggest stars and groups.

Available for no additional cost to viewers in more than 18 million Comcast homes through March 14th, Stand Up 2 Cancer On Demand will feature more than 60 of the viewers’ favorite artists including Alicia Keys, Bruce Springsteen, Dave Matthews Band, Norah Jones, Mariah Carey, Bon Jovi, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, Idina Menzel, Jack Johnson, Sting, Renée Fleming, Placido Domingo and other stars of the Metropolitan Opera.

In addition, viewers will be encouraged by numerous celebrity and notable participants to “stand up” to cancer and make a donation by clicking here or call a dedicated 24/7 phone line that will appear during the On Demand music videos. Viewers will also be able to select content from the “A Reason 2 Give” folder and 100 percent of the proceeds will benefit Stand Up To Cancer’s collaborative scientific “Dream Teams” or innovative projects aimed at bringing better treatments to patients faster.

“We are proud to come together with Stand Up To Cancer to harness the power and popularity of our On Demand service to drive awareness and provide people with this outlet to give,” said Diana Kerekes, Vice President, Video Content for Comcast."

“Whether it’s how the research we fund is conducted, or how we engage the entertainment community, collaboration and innovation are Stand Up To Cancer’s twin mantras,” said Laura Ziskin, the highly-acclaimed film producer and a SU2C Founding Member. “Comcast partnered with us on something that has never been done before, and it involves actors, musicians and music labels who often compete with one another and are standing together in an effort to end this disease. We are deeply grateful not only to Comcast, but also to EMI Music, SONY Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and the Metropolitan Opera for making their incredible content available.”

The On Demand destination will also exclusively debut Stand Up To Cancer’s new public service announcement, entitled “Up2.” Directed by filmmaker Jesse Dylan (Will.i.am’s iconic “Yes, We Can” video), the spot stars Renee Zellweger, Rob Lowe, Josh Groban, Derek Fisher, Michael Strahan, Minka Kelly and Mandy Moore among many others, conveying the core message: it’s up to each of us to play a role in ending cancer. Legendary songwriter and musician Dave Stewart (Eurythmics) composed a powerful anthem entitled “Stand Up To Cancer” which he recorded multiple versions of for Stand Up 2 Cancer On Demand and SU2C’s “Up 2” campaign. One version includes a collaboration with Joss Stone and a separate instrumental version recorded by an orchestra led by Hans Zimmer and featuring violin virtuoso Anne Marie Calhoun, who co-wrote the track with Stewart.

“Cancer takes 1,500 lives every single day, that’s more than half a million Americans each year,” said Lisa Paulsen, President & CEO of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, the 501©(3) charitable organization for the television and film business that serves as the fiduciary behind SU2C, who is also a Founding Member. “Stand Up To Cancer is building a grassroots movement of people who are saying, ‘enough is enough; I want to help the scientists working to end this disease.’ Through Comcast and the treasure trove of content that’s been assembled, we can organically reach people in more than 18 million homes to encourage them to join our movement.”

For a limited time, Stand Up 2 Cancer On Demand will feature holiday music selections including Bob Dylan's comical new “Must Be Santa” video. Stand Up 2 Cancer On Demand will also feature compelling entertainment clips and informative messages from scientists, as well as numerous celebrity and notable participants including Meryl Streep, Katie Couric, Brian Williams, Jon Stewart, Salma Hayek and the late Patrick Swayze. Celebrities ranging from the casts of TV shows shows like LOST and Brothers & Sisters, to an array of personalities including Dr. Oz, the E! News anchors and others are featured in special, tailored messages “wrapped around” the video content, each conveying why it is so important to support SU2C’s distinctive cancer research.

To watch the PSA and find out more, click here.

LTTS Exclusive - The 2009 Noble Awards

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Michelle Vink

I had the honor of attending “The Noble Awards” on their first annual show honoring charities and their celebrity supporters.

On Sunday, October 18th at The Beverly Hilton, “Access Hollywood’s” Billy Bush hosted the premiere of this special event honoring Morgan Freeman with a Lifetime Achievement Award and a list of celebrity honorees from Brett Ratner to Teri Hatcher.

Guests were treated to live performances from names like Brian McKnight and Benji Madden and the famed 8-year-old piano prodigy, Emily Bear. The night was supported with a star-studded cast of performers, honorees and guests that all believe in using the power of their voice in the name of philanthropy and charity. No detail was too small for this event. The award sculpture itself was the vision of Antonio Banderas and came to life at The Art of Elysium workshop with personal touches from the children at the Shriners Hospitals for Children with the guidance of The Art of Elysium volunteer/actor/sculptor David Grieco.

The Noble Awards was an inaugural awards show that launched the beginning of a perennial movement that will encourage each and every person to give back and take action in the world today.

Each year they will recognize and honor philanthropic organizations and the celebrities that make considerable contributions to them. Some of this year honorees included Nancy O'Dell for Best Buddies International, AnnaLynne McCord for The Blind Project, Teri Hatcher for Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Brett Ratner for DoSomething.org, Billy Bush for Lollipop Theater Network, Whitney Burditt for Playing for Change, Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds for Stand Up To Cancer, Laila Ali for Women’s Sport Foundation and a charity very close to my heart, The Art of Elysium honoring Joel Madden.

Jennifer Howell, Founder of The Art of Elysium, presented this award to Joel Madden with Lionel Richie, Allison Beck and Stacey Price: "As both an artist and a father, Joel truly embodies a sincere passion for both music and children. It was evident in his beautiful and humble acceptance speech where he expressed his heartbreak at the thought of a child spending one second inside of a hospital. A moment that was also extremely moving was when his twin brother Benji (who has spent many days with The Art of Elysium teaching guitar and participating in music workshops) shared his love for his brother with a music dedication. Nicole Richie (who has also dedicated her talents to the charity) looked on lovingly while her Father introduced Joel and thanked him for loving his daughter so much. The love, support and generosity that was shown by all members of Joel’s family are the true roots that can help take The Art of Elysium’s mission to every child that spends that terrifying one second in a hospital."

I was lucky enough to experience the vision of the Founder/Executive Producer, Janeen Mansour, prior to the event and watch it develop from an idea to a reality.

“The goal of the Noble Awards was to highlight the charities there that night and celebrities that champion them,” she said. “Our goal reached far beyond my expectations. The purpose of the Noble Awards is to create awareness and send out a call to action. I feel everyone in the room was inspired and moved and understood the message we were trying to convey. That message is to be a Noble.”

The Noble Awards are a testament to what Hollywood can achieve when it uses its voice to celebrate positive change. This event showcased just a few of the many celebrities and individuals dedicated to making a difference in the world today. It is my hope that it will serve as an inspiration to others to get involved in their charity, community or cause that has meaning to them. Being a volunteer takes less time than your yoga class and can cost you less money than your Latte. But the experience will stay with you a lifetime.

To the children, the volunteers, the unnamed angels, the celebrities, the founders, the team behind this event and to all of the people that donate their time and passion to making a difference on a daily basis, this celebrates you.

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.

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.

Noble Awards Set To Honor Celebrity Humanitarians

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:30:00 -0000

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 inaugural Noble Humanitarian Awards, to take place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Sunday, October 18. And Look To The Stars is proud to support it.

The two-hour event, produced on behalf of the non-profit Celebrity Charity Awards Corporation, seeks to annually honor up to a dozen charities and celebrities who actively support them, elevating awareness of these organizations and the impact of their work.

The organizations to be honored at this first-annual ceremony include The Art of Elysium, Best Buddies International, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, DoSomething.org, Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Keep A Child Alive, The Salvation Army, Stand Up To Cancer and Women's Sports Foundation.

Celebrities who will accept awards on behalf of the charities being honored include Laila Ali (Women’s Sports Foundation), Jessica Biel (Children’s Hospital Los Angeles), Alicia Keys (Keep A Child Alive), Joel Madden (The Art of Elysium) and Brett Ratner (DoSomething.org), with others currently being confirmed. During the ceremony, each will be presented with the trophy award, designed by Antonio Banderas, with personal touches added by children who participated in The Art of Elysium workshop at the Shriners Hospitals for Children. Other performers and presenters will be announced closer to the event.

With nearly two decades of experience across entertainment, fashion and charitable projects, Janeen Mansour is creator and executive producer of the Noble Humanitarian Awards. Mansour, who has interviewed many celebrities, was inspired to create a dedicated award show for the charity community after interviewing the Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson and learning about her significant charitable work.

“Celebrities have long given their time to charity, championing causes they feel passionate about. Their support draws media coverage, and organizations benefit. With the Noble Awards, we aim to turn the spotlight back onto these celebrities and charities in an effort to provide recognition, to educate, to inspire, and to encourage even more support from the Hollywood community and the public at large. It’s an annual celebration of service and volunteerism,” explains Mansour.

A team of entertainment veterans join Mansour in producing the Noble Humanitarian Awards. They include Ziad Batal (Executive Producer), founder of All 4 Media, one of the most prominent film and television production companies and creator and producer of dozens of reality, talk and sports programs in the Middle East; Michael Seligman (Producer), President & CEO of Seligman Entertainment, Inc, whose 35 years of work includes the Oscars, the Emmy’s, AFI’s, Kennedy Center Honors and Stand Up To Cancer; Tisha Fein (Producer), whose three-decade experience includes the Emmys, Grammys, Tonys, World Music Awards, Fashion Rocks, Movies Rock and Stand Up to Cancer.

The Noble Humanitarian Awards are produced on behalf of the Celebrity Charity Awards Corporation, a non-profit organization. With the staging of the first annual awards on October 18, 2009, the Celebrity Charity Awards Corporation will launch a year-round campaign 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.

Patrick Swayze's Charity Legacy

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

Written by Tim Saunders

Patrick Swayze has passed away after a long battle with cancer, aged 57.

The star – who was best known for his work in the films “Dirty Dancing” and “Ghost”, as well as for his international hit “She’s Like The Wind” – was first diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer in January 2008, and fought the disease bravely until his death yesterday.

“Patrick lived a thousand lifetimes in one lifetime,” said actor Rob Lowe. “He was an expert dancer, he wrote hit songs, he starred in hit movies, he was an amazing horseman. But the thing I will remember him most for was his amazing love affair with his wife Lisa.”

Swayze used his illness to raise awareness of the disease and funds for research into cures and treatment.

In September 2008, Swayze made an appearance on the ABC, NBC, and CBS simulcast charity extravaganza Stand Up To Cancer, a star-studded event that raised millions of dollars for cancer research.

“I dream that the word ‘cure’ will no longer be followed by the words ’it’s impossible’,” he told the audience. “Together, we can make a world where cancer no longer means living with fear, without hope, or worse”

“He said a beautiful thing: ’I’m just an individual living with cancer’,” said Stand Up To Cancer organizer Laura Ziskin. “That’s how he wants to be thought of. He’s in a fight, but he’s a fighter.”

In February of 2009, Swayze penned an open letter in the Washington Post urging world leaders to help in the fight against cancer.

“Ever since I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January 2008, I’ve been waging an intense, often hellacious battle… but I’m not alone,” wrote the star. "More than 1.4 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. In the United States, one out of three women and one out of two men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. Look around you; at one point or another, cancer will strike very close to home for everyone.

“By advancing good health, it also enables Americans to reach their individual potential and contribute more to society.”

To read the full letter, click here.

Swayze is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Lisa, and his mother, Patsy. He will be missed by both the celebrity world and those involved in the struggle against cancer.

Cynthia Nixon Films Cancer PSA

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon has joined with actress Edie Falco to appear in a new Stand Up To Cancer PSA designed to educate cancer patients and their loved ones about the increased risk of infection during cancer treatment and the importance of learning how to manage one’s risk.

Often patients are overwhelmed with medical information once they have been diagnosed with cancer. Many do not fully understand the risk of infection during chemotherapy and the potential impact it has on one’s overall treatment success. The campaign’s goal is to encourage cancer patients and their caregivers to actively work with their physicians to learn what can be done to lower the risk of infection before starting chemotherapy.

“Learning you have cancer comes as a complete shock and, at first, makes you feel powerless,” says Falco, SU2C ambassador and cancer survivor. “You really need to take control early. It is important to work with your team of physicians at the outset to understand how to minimize your risk of infection and stay strong throughout your treatment plan.”

“Being told that you have cancer is devastating,” adds Nixon, SU2C ambassador and cancer survivor. “But you need to stay empowered. Through this Stand Up To Cancer campaign, we hope to encourage cancer patients and their loved ones to get all the facts, including how you can minimize the risk of infection during treatment.”

The public service campaign, “Manage Your Treatment,” includes both print and broadcast announcements, and was created by Stand Up to Cancer with support from Amgen. Starting this fall, the 30- and 60-second broadcast spots will begin airing and the print version of the PSA will appear in major women and lifestyle magazines. The PSA directs people to www.manageyourtreatment.com for more information.

Cancer patients are at higher risk for infection due to a compromised immune system caused by both the cancer itself and, often, by chemotherapy treatment. Neutropenia, a low white blood cell count, is a common and potentially dangerous side effect of chemotherapy. It can lead to a heightened risk of infection that can require hospitalization and be life-threatening. Each year, 60,000 cancer patients are hospitalized for chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. Neutropenia also can disrupt chemotherapy treatment, including both dose delays and dose reductions, which — for certain types of cancer — may impede a patient’s ability to achieve the best long-term results.

To view the PSA, click here.

McEnroe Serious About Standing Up To Cancer

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:00:00 -0000

Written by Myrlia Purcell

Tennis great John McEnroe is joining the fight against cancer, becoming the latest ambassador for Stand Up To Cancer.

McEnroe, 50, has witnessed his father’s strength against the disease over the last five years. In an interview with CBS News, he says of his father, “He’s a tough guy. I thought he was indestructible, but things happen.”

The 7-time Grand Slam winner and Stand Up To Cancer are encouraging men to get tested for prostate cancer with a simple blood test starting at the age of 40. He tells people, “Be proactive, instead of reactive.”

In an interview with FOX News, he encourages wives to push their husbands to get tested, joking that men won’t even stop to ask directions.

1 in 6 men in the US will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.

“When my dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer, it was a big wake up call for me. I was really surprised by the prevalence of this disease,” said McEnroe… “I am hoping my story and involvement in this campaign may help a few more guys start managing their risk.”

Free screenings will be available across the US during Prostate Cancer Awareness Week, Sept. 20-26. These are organized through the Prostate Conditions Education Council. Colin Powell is a spokesperson for this organization.

“I personally have battled prostate cancer and won,” Powell states. “Early detection is the best weapon we have against this silent killer.”

For more information on prostate cancer and what you can do fight it, visit ProstateCancer.com and ProstateConditions.org.

Major League Baseball Ventures Beyond The Diamond For Charity

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Catrina K. Sally

Major League Baseball recently completed the 80th run of its annual All Star Week.

The “Going Beyond” theme of this year’s event was achieved when the league collected more than $7 million in donations to charitable organizations. The events were held during and leading up to the midsummer ritual and included an All-Star Workout Day in St. Louis’ Busch Stadium.

MLB Charities and Cardinals Care plan to distribute approximately $5 million to various local and national charities. The proceeds will be allotted to the following organizations: Stand Up To Cancer, Boys' and Girls' Clubs of America, Feeding America, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and Teach For America.

Other supporting organizations include Bank of America, MasterCard, Holiday Inn, State Farm, and Anheuser-Busch. With friends like these, next year’s All-Star week will be even more successful!

Sheryl Crow And Elvis Costello Rock MLB For Cancer

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Sheryl Crow joined Elvis Costello onstage at the 2009 Major League Baseball All-Star Charity Concert on Saturday, July 11, under the iconic Gateway Arch at the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial.

The concert, which was free to fans, was the culmination of a day-long celebration of baseball history and featured a $1 million donation by Major League Baseball to Stand Up To Cancer. In addition, fans were able to make donations to Stand Up To Cancer after the concert. The concert streamed live on MLB.com, the official website of Major League Baseball, and fans watching the live stream were encouraged to donate to Stand Up To Cancer.

“I want you all to take your cell phones out and text STAND to 40202,” told the 100,000 people in the crowd. “I know you have cell phones. You’ve been taking pictures of me. I’ve seen you. Take them out and text to 40202. You can help to end cancer in my lifetime. And yours.”

Major League Baseball has responded to United States of America President Barack Obama's call for community service through “United We Serve,” a program which encourages all Americans to be part of building a new foundation for America by engaging in sustained and meaningful community service. The initiative will focus on four key areas: energy and the environment, health care, education, and community renewal. The concert was an environmentally focused event featuring the Major League Baseball Green Team, a group that collected recyclable bottles and cans at the show.

“It’s really amazing,” said Crow. “I don’t know of a national sport that has embraced a cause like this and has raised so much money and made it such a high-profile issue. I don’t need to reiterate the fact that that everyone has a relationship with cancer. Whether it’s an individual-personal relationship — whether it’s with family or friends — we’ve all been touched by cancer. So it’s just an incredible blessing to see, because I have such a personal relationship with cancer, a sport embrace Stand Up To Cancer and make it such a massively-wide issue.”

Sheryl Crow To Perform At MLB Charity Concert

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Major League Baseball will host Missouri native and nine-time Grammy Award winner Sheryl Crow for the 2009 Major League Baseball All-Star Charity Concert presented by Pepsi on Saturday, July 11 under the iconic Gateway Arch at the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial.

The concert, which will be free to fans, is the culmination of a day-long celebration of baseball history and will feature a $1 million donation by Major League Baseball to Stand Up To Cancer. In addition, fans will be able to make donations to Stand Up To Cancer after the concert. The concert will be streamed live on MLB.com, the official website of Major League Baseball, and fans watching the live stream will be encouraged to donate to Stand Up To Cancer.

The 2009 Major League Baseball All-Star Charity Concert presented by Pepsi is part of a series of charitable events and activities leading up to the MLB All-Star Game. This year’s All-Star activities are focused on MLB and its business partners giving back to important charitable causes and celebrating the importance of community service. In addition to Pepsi, MLB sponsors Budweiser, Sharp and Taco Bell are also supporting this event.

The concert will begin at 8:00 p.m. CT on Saturday, July 11. Prior to the concert, the St. Louis Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs game on FOX will be aired live on big screen televisions at the concert location for fans to view.

Major League Baseball has responded to United States of America President Barack Obama's call for community service through “United We Serve,” a program which begins today to encourage all Americans to be part of building a new foundation for America by engaging in sustained and meaningful community service. The initiative will focus on four key areas: energy and the environment, health care, education, and community renewal. The concert will be an environmentally focused event featuring the Major League Baseball Green Team, a group that will collect recyclable bottles and cans at the show. Pepsi and Aquafina are supplying more than 100 recycling bins that will be located around the Arch grounds. Major League Baseball has a relationship with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), who advises MLB on ways for the League and its Clubs to implement practices and policies that are environmentally-friendly.

“I am honored to team up with Major League Baseball to come home and perform a free show that will support Stand Up To Cancer, an organization with the noble and ambitious goal of eradicating all forms of cancer,” said Crow, a cancer survivor. “The dedication of Major League Baseball to being a part of the environmental movement gives me the chance to put on a show while supporting two causes that I feel strongly about.”

“Sheryl Crow is a wonderful performer who deserves enormous credit for using her fame to shine a light on causes that are important to the health and welfare of our country,” said Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig. “As a social institution, Major League Baseball will use this concert and the All-Star festivities to entertain our fans while recognizing the importance of addressing important social needs, and we thank Pepsi for making this great event happen.”

“All of us at Stand Up To Cancer are very grateful to Sheryl Crow and Major League Baseball, for their dedication and support in the fight against cancer,” said Sue Schwartz, member of the Stand Up to Cancer Executive Leadership Council. “We are thrilled to have a tremendous platform like the All-Star Game to invigorate and activate the public in the fight against this vicious disease.”

“Pepsi is fortunate to have the opportunity to merge two of America’s favorite pastimes — baseball and music — into one event,” said Jeff Dubiel, VP of Sports Marketing, Pepsi-Cola North America Beverages. “By teaming up with Major League Baseball and Sheryl Crow, we’re not only giving fans an amazing show, but we’re raising awareness and funding for an important cause — Stand Up To Cancer.”

Free-spirited, fearless and fierce, Sheryl Crow has garnered nine Grammys, performed duets with musical luminaries such as Sting and Mick Jagger, released seven studio albums which sold more than 35 million records worldwide, and launched her very own clothing line Bootheel Trading Co., is a cancer survivor and passionate humanitarian and has performed for President Obama. From humble beginnings as a jingle and back-up singer, Crow has reached the pinnacle of professional solo success. Crow explores both personal and global issues on her most recent LP, Detours (produced by Bill Bottrell, who last worked with Crow on her 1993 debut, the seven-times platinum Tuesday Night Music Club).

In the span of just a year, Stand Up To Cancer raised more than $100 million due in large part to a historic hour-long program simultaneously broadcast on ABC, CBS and NBC, September 5, 2008. In May 2009, SU2C announced its first funding of more than $73 million to five dream team collaborations comprised of more than 38 principal investigators from over 20 leading institutions, with 337 individuals participating in total.

Melissa Etheridge Joins Cancer Charity Board

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:30:00 -0000

The Noreen Fraser Foundation is thrilled to announce that Grammy & Academy Award winning rock music icon, cancer survivor and influential activist, Melissa Etheridge, has joined the Board of Directors of the Noreen Fraser Foundation (NFF). This is the first time Etheridge has joined the board of a foundation for a cancer cause.

“We are very excited to have such a passionate cancer advocate and humanitarian join our board,” said Noreen Fraser, President & CEO of the Noreen Fraser Foundation. “The Foundation will benefit greatly from Ms. Etheridge’s insight and experience — we look forward to working together to help women everywhere.”

As a member of the NFF Board of Directors, Melissa Etheridge will be involved in the overall direction of the foundation, its programs and grants. “Being on the Board of Directors of the Noreen Fraser Foundation is a dream come true. I have been searching for an organization to lend my name and insight with the same beliefs, outlook and treatment practices to combat women’s cancers as I do,” states Etheridge. “I look forward to helping NFF achieve their goals,” elaborated Etheridge.

In October 2004, Melissa Etheridge was diagnosed with breast cancer. Etheridge was praised for her performance at the 2005 Grammy Awards when she courageously performed bald from chemotherapy. In 2005, Etheridge recorded I Run for Life which references her fight with breast cancer, her determination to overcome it and her encouragement of other breast cancer survivors and their families. In 2008, Etheridge performed a special version of the song as I Stand for Life during the Stand up to Cancer televised event raising money for cancer research and recorded “Just Stand Up,” a collaborative effort with 14 other artists, the proceeds of which benefit Stand Up To Cancer.

The Noreen Fraser Foundation uses educational and awareness campaigns to raise funds for translational cancer research aimed at developing new prevention methods, diagnostic tools and non-toxic therapies to treat women’s cancers. Noreen Fraser, a stage IV cancer survivor, has played a pivotal role in raising money and awareness of the importance of cancer research as co-creator and co-producer of Stand Up To Cancer, a movement which has raised over 100 million dollars for cancer research to date.

Visit the Noreen Fraser Foundation website here.

Stand Up To Cancer Announces Celebrity Ambassadors

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Stand Up To Cancer announced its list of celebrity ambassadors for 2009 last week.

The organization – which aims to raise money for cancer researchers and scientists to come together and reach their common goal: the cure for cancer – has brought names such as Marcia Cross, Kirsten Dunst, Sally Field, Mandy Moore, Dave Annable, Fran Drescher, Dana Delany, Sharon Osbourne, Patrick Wilson, Sofia Vassilieva and David Archuleta on board to help raise awareness of the cause.

“We are eternally grateful for the continuing support of the Hollywood community who have lent their time and talent to this cause, and engaged the public to do the same,” said Laura Ziskin, who is a member of SU2C executive leadership team. “The entertainment industry generously offered this initiative the most incredible resources—we want to make sure that they know all of their hard work is going toward something monumental.”

Stand Up To Cancer was launched last year with an hour-long TV spectacular – simulcast live on NBC, ABC, and CBS – that featured celebrities such as Jennifer Garner, Halle Berry, Forest Whitaker and Casey Affleck reading accounts of people battling cancer, as well as musical items, comedy sketches, and the opportunity for people to ring up and pledge donations – with stars such as Ellen DeGeneres, America Ferrera and Kirsten Dunst answering the phones.

Stars To Attend Change The World Awards This Weekend

Fri, 29 May 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Hollywood Note Foundation will hold its annual Change The World Awards this Sunday, May 31.

The award ceremony – hosted by Scott Baio and his wife Rene – will attract a large number of stars who will be recognized for their personal efforts to make the world a better place. Recipients will include Band From TV – featuring Greg Grunberg, Bob Guiney, Bonnie Somerville, Hugh Laurie, James Denton, Jesse Spencer and Teri Hatcher – who will recieve the Humanitarian Award of Inspiration. Also being honored are Ed Begley Jr., who will be presented with the Humanitarian Lifetime Achievement Award, Bart Simpson’s voice Nancy Cartwright – who will receive the Change The World Public Service Award – and many others, including Aimee Teegarden, Kevin Sorbo, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jeremy Sumpter, and Michael Bernard Beckwith.

Beneficiaries of the event will include Stand Up To Cancer, Happy House, Save The Ta-Tas, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children), Coalition for Clean Air, the Ready or Not Foundation, and the Agape Foundation.

The ceremony – which will be held at the Beverly Hills Hotel – will feature performances by Rachael Lampa, Daniel Nahmod and Kute Blackson.

Find out more at the official Change The World Awards website.

Attend The Change The World Awards For A Special Price

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

The Hollywood Note Foundation is to hold its annual star-studded Change The World Awards on May 31, and now Look To The Stars readers can purchase tickets for a reduced price.

The award ceremony – hosted by Scott Baio and his wife Rene – will attract a large number of stars who will be recognized for their personal efforts to make the world a better place. Recipients will include Band From TV – featuring Greg Grunberg, Bob Guiney, Bonnie Somerville, Hugh Laurie, James Denton, Jesse Spencer and Teri Hatcher – who will recieve the Humanitarian Award of Inspiration. Also being honored are Ed Begley Jr., who will be presented with the Humanitarian Lifetime Achievement Award, Bart Simpson’s voice Nancy Cartwright – who will receive the Change The World Public Service Award – and many others, including Aimee Teegarden, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jeremy Sumpter, and Michael Bernard Beckwith.

The ceremony – which will be held at the Beverly Hills Hotel – will feature performances by Rachael Lampa, Daniel Nahmod and Kute Blackson.

Individual tickets usually cost $500, but as a special offer, Look To The Stars can now offer you tickets for $350. To purchase the tickets, go to the Change The World website and enter the online registration code NOTE 0531 when you make your purchase.

Stars Raise Cash In Celebrity Charity Smackdown

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

South by Southwest (SXSW, Inc.) is a private company based in Austin, Texas, dedicated to building and delivering conference and festival events for entertainment and related media industry professionals. Since 1987, SXSW has produced the internationally recognized Music and Media Conference & Festival and this year they’ve added a new twist.

SXSW, in conjunction with PayPay, have kicked off the first ever social-media smackdown and charity fundraiser at Mashable and Blurb’s SXSW Bash at Six Lounge in Austin.

Here’s how it works: PayPal has challenged nine celebrity teams to raise the most money for their chosen charities via social media sites and blogs. Fans can help by copying their favorite celebrity’s PayPal fundraising widget to their MySpace pages, Facebook page, or personal Web sites to encourage friends to donate.

The ‘Smackdown’ runs March 16-26, when PayPal will announce the winner and make an additional donation to the winning celebrity’s charity of choice.

Participating celebrities include Alec Baldwin, who is raising money for the Actors Fund of America.

“The Actors Fund is the pre-eminent organization for assisting all of my friends and colleagues in performing arts and entertainment around the country,” said Alec Baldwin, star of NBC television program “30 Rock.” “Most of those who work in this business are not stars – they’re working professionals who have no place else to turn when times are difficult. Please help them continue their vital work with your generous support.”

Also taking part are:

Corbin Bleu, benefiting Stand Up To Cancer.

“I am proudly supporting Stand Up to Cancer, because this organization is determined to bring an end to a disease that affects one out of every two men and one out of every three women,” said actor and recording artist, Corbin Bleu. “There are amazing causes in this Smackdown, but I hope I can put a spotlight on SU2C and its pledge to end cancer’s reign as a leading cause of death.”

Ernie Johnson, benefiting Samaritan’s Feet .

“I am honored to be the spokesperson for Samaritan’s Feet,” said Ernie Johnson, famous NBA reporter. “This organization demonstrates compassion to the poorest of the poor through servant leadership by washing their feet and telling them that they are loved. We are no different from them. We just happen to be born in the US and not a Third World country. I feel blessed and privileged to be the voice of these children who don’t have one.”

Kyle Petty, benefiting the Victory Junction Gang.

“Victory Junction is excited to participate in this charity challenge, which will raise awareness and funds for children with chronic medical conditions and serious illnesses,” said NASCAR driver Kyle Petty. “In these economic times, raising money is more important than ever, and we appreciate the fundraising opportunity PayPal, in partnership with Mashable, has given us to continue to deliver life-changing camping experiences.”

Other participating celebrities include Brea Grant for Girls Rock Camp Austin, Elevenmoms for Share Our Strength, Hayden Panettiere for The Whaleman Foundation, Linkin Park for Music for Relief, and Pete Cashmore for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. 

Donations can also be made directly on the Charity Smackdown homepage, where details about the celebrity teams and their causes will be showcased.

Band From TV To Receive Special Charity Award

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Band From TV – the star-studded band made up of celebrities from shows such as Desperate Housewives and Heroes – is to receive a special accolade at the Hollywood Note Foundation's annual Change The World Awards in May.

The awards will celebrate Hollywood for its impact on philanthropy, and will recognize celebrity individuals for their personal efforts to make the world a better place.

Band From TV – which features stars such as Greg Grunberg, Bob Guiney, Bonnie Somerville, Hugh Laurie, James Denton, Jesse Spencer and Teri Hatcher – raises money through gigs and album sales for a range of charities such as Save the Children, The Art of Elysium, the Child Abuse Prevention Program and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence through the Band From TV Global Charity Trust. They have been spotlighted by the Hollywood Note Foundation to receive the Humanitarian Award of Inspiration at the award ceremony.

Also to receive awards at the event will be Ed Begley Jr., who will be presented with the Humanitarian Lifetime Achievement Award, Bart Simpson’s voice Nancy Cartwright – who will receive the Change The World Public Service Award – and many others, including Aimee Teegarden, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jeremy Sumpter, and Michael Bernard Beckwith.

The ceremony – which will be held at the Beverly Hills Hotel – will feature performances by Rachael Lampa, Daniel Nahmod and Kute Blackson.

More information can be found at the Change The World Awards website. To read an exclusive report about the Change The World Awards Announcement event by Look To The Stars Celebrity Ambassador Rachel Zeskind, click here.

Bid On A Vespa Signed By The Stars For Charity

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Stand Up To Cancer recently teamed up with Island Def Jam records to launch an exciting new star-studded charity auction.

Celebrity guests at the record label’s VIP lounge at the Sundance Film Festival had the chance to sign a Vespa S50, and now the charity is selling the bike to the highest bidder.

Stars who have signed their name on the item include Alan Cumming, Andie MacDowell, Anne Heche, Christie Brinkley, Dominic Cooper, Hoobastank, Robin Thicke, Terrell Owens, Wesley Snipes, Christina Milian, Kevin Sorbo, Razorlight, Jon Mclaughlin and many more.

Stand Up To Cancer is a non-profit organization that aims to raise money for cancer researchers and scientists to come together and reach their common goal: the cure for cancer. Last September they held a huge star-studded telethon to raise money and awareness for their cause. Simulcast live on NBC, ABC, and CBS, the telethon featured celebrities such as Jennifer Garner, Halle Berry, Forest Whitaker and Casey Affleck reading accounts of people battling cancer, as well as musical items, comedy sketches, and the opportunity for people to ring up and pledge donations – with stars such as Ellen DeGeneres, America Ferrera and Kirsten Dunst answering the phones.

For a chance to bid on the celebrity autographed Vespa and help the cause, visit the Charity Folks website.

Rihanna To Host Star-Studded Jingle Ball

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Stand Up To Cancer is holding a special Christmas concert hosted by Rihanna in New York this weekend – the Z100 Jingle Ball.

Friday, December 12, will see acts such as Leona Lewis, Kanye West, Katy Perry, Chris Brown, Ne-Yo, Brandy, David Archuleta, Jesse McCartney, Paramore and Lady Gaga perform at Madison Square Garden, with proceeds going to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.

The annual Z100 Jingle Ball has been held every year since 2003, with artists such as the Jonas Brothers, Jordin Sparks, Avril Lavigne, Alicia Keys, Timbaland, the Pussycat Dolls and many others performing.

More information about the show, and the chance to win tickets, visit the Z100 Jingle Ball website.

Mandy Moore To Share Charity Hosting Duties With Hilary Duff

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Hilary Duff and Mandy Moore will co-host a special charity gala later tonight, December 10.

The event is being held at the Beverly Hills boutique Kitson to launch a collection of holiday merchandise to benefit Stand Up To Cancer. Items in the collection include a star necklace designed by Jennifer Meyer, Love Zooey Tees by Alice Heller, a set of Graf & Lantz felt star ornaments, and a Kumi KooKoon cashmere and silk throw blanket.

“Today’s cancer scientists are on the verge of life-saving discoveries, but they desperately need the funds to mount an all-out assault,” said Laura Ziskin, executive producer and founding member of Stand Up To Cancer. “The money raised from the sale of these beautiful items will go directly to funding these important research programs. Together we will defeat this insidious disease.”

The collection can be viewed at the Stand Up To Cancer website, and all items will be available at Kitson stores across the US.

Signed W Film Posters Up For Auction

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Lionsgate Films are auctioning signed film posters of their latest movie, W, to raise money for Stand Up To Cancer.

W tells the story of George W Bush – one of the most controversial public figures in recent memory. Lionsgate describes the film as an: “unprecedented undertaking, [with] acclaimed director Oliver Stone bringing the life of our 43rd President to the big screen as only he can. W takes viewers through Bush’s eventful life – his struggles and triumphs, how he found both his wife and his faith, and of course the critical days leading up to his decision to invade Iraq.”

The auction – which runs until October 20 – features five W posters signed by the film’s director, Oliver Stone, and leading actors – Josh Brolin, James Cromwell, Elizabeth Banks, and Ellen Burstyn.

The auction can be accessed through eBay.

Hollywood Philanthropy: The Change The World Humanitarian Awards

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Rachel Zeskind

Look To The Stars’ Celebrity Ambassador, Rachel Zeskind, recently attended the Hollywood Note Foundation’s Change The World Humanitarian Award Honoree Announcement and Launch Party in Los Angeles and shares her thoughts about the event in her latest report:

Hollywood has used its power to promote philanthropy around the world, and the Hollywood Note Foundation aspires to maximize and recognize that power and to change the world as it exists now. Through it’s premiere fundraising effort – the Change the World Humanitarian Awards Gala, set for May of next year – the Hollywood Note Foundation bestows honors upon those Hollywood entities that do the most to improve our world.

I attended the Hollywood Note Foundation’s Change the World Humanitarian Award Honoree Announcement and Launch Party at the Beverly Hilton on September 9th. It is my opinion that – out of the plethora of different events, award shows, and premieres that Hollywood hosts – the very best ones are the events where celebrities, philanthropists and a myriad of people within the entertainment industry unite for one evening for a cause. It creates a strong feeling of unity.

The Hollywood Note was such an event. However it was completely unique in it’s collection of supporters, drawing many other philanthropic groups. From the start the room was abuzz with the energy of inspirational people as they mingled, shared their causes and passions and a powerful ‘can do’ sense of unity.

It was an evening to honor the works of individuals – such as Nancy Cartwright (AKA Bart Simpson) – as well as films, companies and organizations such as Stand Up To Cancer, Save The Ta-Tas, and CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children). It also wed these causes together to breed a stronger, more united vision of what Hollywood can and will accomplish for the world we all share.

Also in attendance were Corey Feldman and three time Emmy award-winning composer John Wineglass, with performances by Jessica Sokolove and the winner of Last Comic Standing, Alonzo Bodden.

I think that everyone was truly touched by Shelly Preston’s opening speech – I myself got a sudden rush of goosebumps in knowing that people like Shelly and John Preston of the Hollywood Note Foundation, along with their board members, have thrown themselves fully into this powerful venture and are moving mountains for those who are so desperately in need while honoring and supporting others who are doing the same.

We can be sure to be hearing much more about their work in the future and see a permanent powerful effect resonate throughout Hollywood and the world we all share.

To find out more information about these dedicated people and their works, visit www.hollywoodnotefoundation.org and view the full list of honorees.

Look To The Stars is proud to list the Hollywood Note Foundation as one of our official partners.

(Photos copyright Gates Photography)

Justin Timberlake Proves That Fashion Rocks

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Justin Timberlake, Miley Cyrus and Charlize Theron were some of the stars who appeared at the fifth annual Fashion Rocks concert celebrating the relationship between music and fashion last Friday.

Proceeds from the show – which was televised on CBS on Tuesday night – went to Stand Up To Cancer, which held its own star-studded telethon on the same evening. The Fashion Rocks show included a performance of more than a dozen divas — including Beyonce, Mariah Carey, Natasha Bedingfield, Fergie, Rihanna and Cyrus — who sung their new charity song Just Stand Up, which was beamed live to the Stand Up To Cancer television extravaganza.

“This is the first time we’re all together singing the song,” said Bedingfield. “It was really special. It was really like a sisterhood, like a bond… We’re all used to being the stars — the only star in the room — and it was really nice I think that everyone could just come together and really support each other.”

Also present at Fashion Rocks were Hilary Swank and Hayden Panettiere, with performances from Kid Rock, Keith Urban, Duffy, the Black Eyed Peas, and the Pussycat Dolls. But it was the sizzling duet between Timberlake and Beyonce on “Ain’t Nothing Like The Real Thing” that stole the show.

And just to prove that there really is nothing like the real thing, Timberlake has also confirmed he will once again host the Shriners Hospitals for Children Golf Open in October.

Following on from the success of last year’s event, the Open will take place October 13-19 at the TPC Summerlin course in Las Vegas.

The annual event has taken place every year since 1983 and has raised more than $10 million for Las Vegas area charities. Previous champions include Tiger Woods, Greg Norman, Davis Love III, Paul Azinger, Jim Furyk, Curtis Strange and Fuzzy Zoeller.

Shriners Hospitals for Children is a network of facilities in North America that provides superior medical care at no charge to children under the age of 18, and more information about the event – including how to get tickets – can be found at the Justin Timberlake Shriners Golf Open website.

Stand Up To Cancer A Huge Success

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A multitude of stars came out on Friday night as part of the Stand Up To Cancer television extravaganza to raise money for cancer research.

The hour-long program – simulcast live on NBC, ABC, and CBS – featured celebrities such as Jennifer Garner, Halle Berry, Forest Whitaker and Casey Affleck reading accounts of people battling cancer, as well as musical items, comedy sketches, and the opportunity for people to ring up and pledge donations – with stars such as Ellen DeGeneres, America Ferrera and Kirsten Dunst answering the phones.

“This is an absolutely historic night, thanks to the unbelievable generosity of the three networks,” event organiser, producer and cancer survivor Laura Ziskin told the audience at Los Angeles’ Kodak Theatre.

The biggest surprise of the night was the appearance of Patrick Swayze, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year.

“He looks amazing,” former basketball player Charles Barkley told People Magazine. “For me, seeing Patrick Swayze, someone who is actually fighting this disease, was the best part of the show. Seeing him in person was amazing.”

The idea behind the event was that it is the lack of funding – and not just research – that is slowing the advance of cancer prevention and treatment, and over $100 million has been raised since the Stand Up To Cancer initiative was launched earlier this year.

The telethon – which was viewed by over 10.5 million people – also featured performances by Melissa Etheridge, Sheryl Crow, and James Taylor, as well as the television premiere of the star-studded charitable single Just Stand Up performed by Mariah Carey, Beyoncé Knowles, Mary J. Blige, Rihanna, Fergie, Sheryl Crow, Miley Ray Cyrus, Melissa Etheridge, Ashanti, Natasha Bedingfield, Keyshia Cole, Ciara, Leona Lewis, LeAnn Rimes, and Carrie Underwood. Everybody Loves Raymond star Brad Garrett underwent a prostate examination on the show, and cartoon character Homer Simpson had a colonoscopy.

Other stars who were part of the show included Jennifer Aniston, Scarlett Johansson, Meryl Streep, David Cook, Christina Applegate, Lance Armstrong, Jack Black, Hilary Swank, Jimmy Fallon, and Keanu Reeves, all of whom wanted to do something positive to help the 550,000 Americans and six million people worldwide who die from cancer each year.

As part of Stand Up To Cancer’s efforts, there is also an auction running on eBay that offers the chance to meet the cast of celebrities such as Katie Couric, Stephen Colbert, and Jay Leno. It runs until September 15, and can be accessed through eBay.

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