Look To The Stars News: Latest

Elton John Warns Complacent Teens About Unsafe Sex

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:30:00 -0000

At a gala for his AIDS charity on November 16, Elton John said that young people are putting themselves in danger of getting HIV by engaging in unsafe sex. He warned that the latest generation is “complacent” about the risk of getting the virus.

He said that even though AIDS is not a new disease, higher rates of HIV infection are being seen in African American women, the rural south and in the gay community.

Speaking to Radio 1’s Newsbeat, the singer said, “We are finding that too many young people are not listening to what we are saying. I’m afraid people do get a little complacent about the disease by going out and having unsafe sex. It’s a cyclical thing. Every ten years a new generation comes along and you have to re-educate them.”

Also present at the event held for the Elton John AIDS Foundation were Sharon Stone, former United States president Bill Clinton and Daniel Craig.

Roger Moore Is PETA's Person Of The Year

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Last week, Look To The Stars brought you a story about former 007 star Roger Moore’s fight to stop the production of foie gras, a product made from the livers of ducks and geese. We can now reveal that he has been named PETA’s Person of the Year for his dedication.

The 82-year-old actor recently stepped up his battle with British supermarket store Selfridges to stop them stocking the food by fronting an advertising campaign he paid for personally. He is passionately against the cruel way producers fatten the livers – up to two kilograms of mash are pumped into the birds’ stomachs through a pipe two or three times a day. The pipes sometimes puncture the birds’ throats, causing the animals to bleed to death.

“I am deeply touched and thrilled to be awarded the PETA U.K. person of the year,” said Moore. “When I first saw their video footage on foie gras production three years ago, I felt compelled to do something to help put a stop to this cruel delicacy. I have since become a passionate campaigner against foie gras, and am most humbled that my passion has helped make a positive difference in the lives of these animals.”

The actor also narrated a video about foie gras production that has been viewed over 300,000 times. He has led a hard-hitting campaign that has included writing to members of parliament to enlist their support in getting foie gras off the shelves, penned columns in national newspapers and magazines on the issue and coined the phrase “torture in a tin.”

And his campaigning has been worth it – Selfridges confirmed this week that it will no longer stock the product.

Annie Lennox To Receive Freedom Of London Award

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Annie Lennox is set to receive the Freedom of the City of London at a ceremony taking place at the City of London’s Guildhall on Tuesday 1 December.

The singer was nominated by the British Red Cross International Fundraising Committee, in recognition of her fundraising and humanitarian work.

The presentation will take place in the Basinghall Suite at Guildhall and followed by a star-studded gala dinner and musical ‘Tribute to Annie Lennox’, in the Livery Hall. La Roux, Little Boots and the Music for Life African Children’s Choir will be among the performers. Stephen Fry will be the host for evening and Brian Eno will give a speech.

“The British Red Cross is delighted that on 1 December, World Aids Day, Annie Lennox is being recognised with the Freedom of the City of London,” said Maria Shammas MBE, Chairman of the British Red Cross International Fundraising Committee. “We greatly value her support and her commitment to humanitarian work, which over the years has been remarkable.”

The Freedom of the City of London is one of the oldest surviving traditional ceremonies in existence today; the first Freedom is thought to have been presented in 1237. Previous famous recipients include The Queen, Nelson Mandela, Princess Diana, Luciano Pavarotti, Florence Nightingale and Winston Churchill.

""I first came to London 1971, as a virtually penniless music student , existing on £3 a week," said Lennox. "I’ve lived all over the place and travelled to almost every corner of the globe. For years my suitcase has been half packed, either to leave or because I’ve just arrived home. And the curious thing about the city is that no matter how many years I’ve spent coming and going, I still feel as if there’s so much more to discover.

“As a humanitarian I have long been an admirer of the amazing work of the British Red Cross to tackle HIV across the world and am amazed and honoured to have been acknowledged in this way.”

The gala dinner will take place in the Livery Hall, Guildhall. Guests will arrive from 700pm for a reception, before performances and dinner to start at 7:30pm.

David Ortiz To Host Celebrity Charity Golf

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

David Ortiz is ready to host his second annual celebrity golf tournament Dec. 3-6 at the prestigious Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic. Last year’s event raised more than $300,000 for the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, which provides children in New England and the Dominican Republic access to pediatric critical care.

“I wasn’t born having what I’ve got right now,” Ortiz said before last year’s event. “I know how bad people struggle sometimes, needing things that maybe they can never ever get unless somebody like myself or any other athlete puts it together and helps them out. That’s one of the things that I always think about every day. If I can help people out that way, I will. Sometimes you have to sacrifice to do it, but it’s worth it. It’s really worth it.”

The coolest feature of Ortiz’s event though, is the fact that he isn’t leaving anyone out. If you can’t make it to the Dominican Republic, the event will have an online auction. Fans logging on through Dec. 4 will be able to bid on items such as tickets to the sold-out NHL Winter Classic, a chance to attend the Red Sox’s home opener; a Jonas Brothers-signed Yankees jersey and guitar; a trip to Florida to watch Red Sox Spring Training games, and perhaps the best items up for bids, a party with Ortiz at Big Papi’s Grille.

Celebrity guests expected to attend include: Torii Hunter, Alex Rodriguez, Pedro Martinez, Vladimir Guerrero, Clay Buchholz, Jason Varitek, Mike Lowell, Jacoby Ellsbury, Jon Lester and Terry Francona, among others.

Peter Andre Grants A Special Charity Wish

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

A very special girl had a wish granted by her hero recently when she met Peter André in London.

Five-year-old Jessica from the UK suffers from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia and finds solace in Peter’s music and TV shows. So it was a huge treat when the Make-A-Wish Foundation in the UK whisked her and her family to London, put them up in luxury accommodation, gave them transfers via pink Limousine to where Andre is filming his new reality show.

“Jessica is a lovely little girl and she just has to keep smiling for her mum and dad,” said the star after their meeting. “I am so pleased to have met her today, she is a very brave little girl.”

“This has been the best day ever for Jessica, she loves Peter and this day will stay with us forever – thank you so much,” said Jessica’s mother.

Make-A-Wish needs your donations to keep providing wishes like these to help brighten the lives of sick children. The UK branch of the foundation needs £5 million this year in order to continue granting these magical wishes. To make a donation, click here.

Arsenal Players Get Cute And Fluffy For Charity

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Ashley Parker

Top Arsenal players Cesc Fabregas, Theo Walcott, Andrey Arshavin and Bacary Sagna dressed up in furry animal costumes to raise money for sick children this week.

They dressed up as a lion, rabbit, shark and an owl to walk the streets and fundraise for Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity (GOSH).

Club manager Arsene Wenger said, “The team and I have met some patients from Great Ormond Street Hospital on several occasions…and we’re all struck by the strength and courage they show in fighting their illnesses. We understand the importance of helping to improve the facilities at the hospital and we’re encouraging all Arsenal fans to help in whatever way we can.”

The players each donated a day’s wages to the team’s “Be a Gooner. Be a Giver” campaign. They hope to raise 500,000 Euros (US$740,000) toward a lung function unit for children who have difficulty breathing or sleeping.

The players and Wenger star in a promotional video for their fundraiser. The club is conducting a fundraising matchday. Supporters are encouraged to contribute via www.beagoonerbeagiver.org.

John Salley Addresses Congress About Child Nutrition

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

NBA star John Salley went to Capital Hill this week to urge Congress to reform the Child Nutrition Act. Joining Salley were Elizabeth Kucinich, her husband, Rep. Dennis Kucinich, and representatives of Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

Vegetarianism was the focus of the event, where speakers discussed how federal policies, especially the Child Nutrition Act, contribute to our nation’s high rates of diet-related diseases and stress our health care system. They also asked Congress to help schools serve more fruits, vegetables, and healthy vegetarian foods.

“Succeeding as a champion athlete or champion student takes plenty of nutritious fuel for the mind and the body,” Mr. Salley said. “Students need more fruits and vegetables that will help them stay healthy, fit, and ready to learn. That’s why it’s important for Congress to stay on top of its game by reforming the Child Nutrition Act.”   

The Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act of 2009, which regulates the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, will soon come up for congressional review. Many doctors and health professionals are urging Congress to revise the act to encourage schools to offer more healthful vegetarian meal options.

  John Salley is the first person in NBA history to play on three different championship-winning teams: the Detroit Pistons, the Miami Heat, and the Chicago Bulls. He is also an actor and sports commentator, recently appearing on the hit TV show, ’I’m a Celebrity: Get Me Out of Here.’  

Founded in 1985, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is a nonprofit health organization that promotes preventive medicine, conducts clinical research, and encourages higher standards for ethics and effectiveness in research.

Rock Stars Sign Guitar Amps For Charity

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page joined a host of rock gods in signing a pair of Monitor Audio loudspeakers to be auctioned for charity.

The pair of Gold GS20’s were also autographed by Iggy Pop, Slash, Anvil, Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top), Ronnie Wood, Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) and Brian May and Paul Rodgers from Queen among many others.

The major players of the rock music industry all gathered together at the Park Lane Hotel in London to celebrate the winners of the Marshall Classic Rock Roll Of Honour Awards 2009. 

The Monitor Audio speakers will now be auctioned to the public via text messaging, with all proceeds being donated to ChildLine – the 24-hour helpline that aids over 500,000 children a year. Bidders simply need to register their lowest unique bid.

Monitor Audio’s Marketing Manager, Michael Johnson, is clearly delighted with the response the project has had from some of rock music’s great personalities, “Once again the event was fantastic and we are especially grateful that some of the evening’s big winners joined with us to help and raise a great deal of money for a very worthwhile charity.”

To take part in the auction, click here.

LTTS Exclusive - Travis McCoy And The MTV Staying Alive Foundation

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

Written by Regina Walton

On November 11, Broadway East in Lower Manhattan was crowded with the hip and stylish to kick off the MTV Staying Alive Foundation’s push to their World AIDS Day campaign.

On World AIDS Day, Staying Alive will release a song made exclusively for the cause by Travis McCoy, front man for the popular indie/hip-hop band Gym Class Heroes and one of the foundation’s celebrity ambassadors. The name of the song is One at a Time, and you can get a preview of the song and learn more about the campaign here.

McCoy was at the event last week, as well as MTV VJ and Next Top Model’s Kim Stolz. British R&B singer songwriter Estelle also made an appearance.

The event highlighted McCoy’s travels – he recently visited grassroots HIV and AIDS prevention projects around the world – and was officially kicked off when Stolz spoke about her support of the foundation’s goals. Two grant recipients were also at the event: Tyler Spencer of the Grassroot Foundation/Athletes United for Social Justice and Natalia Cales of the Carolina Empowerment Group, Inc.

“MTV gave us our first big grant,” Tyler Spencer told Look To The Stars. “Before winning the SAF Award, we were funded almost completely by out of pocket expenses. The grant really put a solid ground under our feet.”

McCoy made the keynote speech at the event and, in a moment of spontaneity, he decided to speak from the heart rather than read prepared index cards. He talked about his travels across the globe where he visited grassroots, youth HIV and AIDS prevention projects, and discussed the challenge of writing a song to convey the enormity of his experiences.

In an exclusive interview with Look to the Stars’ Myrlia Purcell, Travis talked about his inspiration for working with the foundation. It all started when he was asked to ask celebrities questions about safe sex and HIV/AIDS awareness at the European Video Music Awards. He felt he should be doing more because “felt a strong connection with the foundation.” Travis lost someone close to him from AIDS when he was young but never told his friends because of the stigma. After the European VMAs, he approached MTV about how he could do more to help.

He talked about the things he noticed during his travels. “When I was in South Africa, I went to this township…, there was no running water and there were all these really, really horrible conditions but, you know, these kids were just so happy and just the biggest brightest smiles I’ve ever seen. These kids are playing soccer out of makeshift ball from plastic bags. And you know seeing that and thinking about back home, you know we just don’t realize how good we have it. We take it for granted the small things like having running water. We have kids that throw fits and cry when they don’t get the newest video game.”

He also talked about stepping up to the challenge of having to write a song. “Well, for one thing, there was a tremendous amount of pressure. All the proceeds from downloads go back to Staying Alive. Of course, I want to raise as much money as possible. So there is this part of me that wants this song to appeal to a lot of people and also to keep the cheesiness to a bare minimum. When you’re going into something like this and you’re making a song that you want to appeal to a lot of people, at the end of the day, it’s a pop song. … You want to make sure that the people who inspired the song are well represented and you get your point across. I’m very, very proud about how the song turned out.”

When asked what his fans could do to help, he responded decisively, “Download the song on December 1st when it comes out. Check out the Staying Alive website to see what you can do to help out. You don’t need to be an impressive figure (a celebrity) to do your part. As much time as our generation spends on the Internet you can take 5 to 10 minutes of your time to check it out to see what you can do.”

To learn more make sure to go to the Staying Alive and The Unbeaten Track websites to learn more.

Neil Patrick Harris To Be Honored By The Trevor Project

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Ashley Parker

How I Met Your Mother star Neil Patrick Harris is to be honored by The Trevor Project, the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth.

Along with Harris, AT&T Inc. will be honored at Cracked Xmas 12, which takes place on December 6 at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles. Cracked Xmas is the organization’s largest annual fundraiser. It brings top entertainers together to support the organization’s programs.

Harris has become a compelling example for LGBTQ youth. He will be given the Trevor Life Award, which annually honors an individual who is an inspiration to LGBTQ youth through example, support, volunteerism, and/or occupation.

Harris said, “For many years, I have been a passionate and enthusiastic supporter of The Trevor Project’s lifesaving work, and I’m deeply honored to be recognized by an organization which has such a vital mission. Everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, should be able to live their lives proudly as exactly who they are. I’m hopeful that in accepting this award, and in helping to build further awareness of the Trevor Project’s resources, I can in some small way make a difference in the lives of LGBTQ youth.”

Charles Robbins, executive director and CEO of The Trevor Project, said he applauds Harris for “having the courage and conviction to set positive examples for young people, and for inspiring them to take pride in themselves and each other.”

The Trevor Project works to save lives through its free and confidential helpline, in-school workshops, education materials, online resources and advocacy. To find out more, visit www.TheTrevorProject.org.

Jordin Sparks Gives Thumbs Down To Texting And Driving

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Jordin Sparks was at an event in New York on Tuesday to encourage people not to text and drive.

The singer put her thumbprint on a pledge banner that is traveling around 30 cities in the US in a bid to stop car accidents caused as a result of drivers texting. Sponsored by Allstate Insurance, the event took place at the Shoreham Hotel in New York City.

“Unfortunately, it can be easy to forget the dangers of texting and driving when you get behind the wheel,” said Sparks. “That’s why it is important for teens, their friends and families to acknowledge its risks and pledge together not to do it. I’m glad to take this public pledge with Allstate, because sending a text isn’t worth taking a life.”

To find out more about the initiative and when the banner will be in a city near you, visit the ThumbsUpPledge Facebook page.

David Beckham Heads For The Army

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Legendary soccer icon David Beckham is headed to an American army base in Germany to visit the troops and raise morale.

Beckham and his Los Angeles Galaxy teammates will fly to into Kaiserslautern in southwest Germany on Monday November 23 to visit U.S. troops and their families. He’ll then travel to the Landstuhl Regional Medical Centre where he’ll meet wounded war veterans being treated for their injuries.

 And of course, Beckham and the boys will also take part in a friendly soccer game against local team Kaiserslautern FC on 26 November.

Artic Monkeys Release Second Single For Oxfam

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

The Arctic Monkeys have released their 10-inch vinyl single, ‘Cornerstone,’ exclusively through Oxfam’s charity shop, with all proceeds going towards fighting poverty.

Exclusive to Oxfam, the second single from Arctic Monkeys’ recent number 1 album Humbug features 3 brand new b-sides: ‘Catapult’, ‘Sketchead’, and ‘Fright Lined Dining Room’. Each single comes with a download code allowing fans to get an MP3 version of the songs for free.

The vinyl single is available in the top 50 of the charity shop’s music stores across the UK starting November 16. Additionally, the band has hidden golden tickets for their forthcoming sold-out UK tour in random copies of the single.

This is the second vinyl version of a single which the Arctic Monkeys have made available on Oxfam, their first being Crying Lightening.

Celebrities' Socks Appeal For Charity

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:00:00 -0000

MandMDirect.com is excited to introduce its limited edition ‘Socks Appeal’ charity sock range in association with Help for Heroes, The Andrew Flintoff Foundation, The Bumblebee Conservation Trust and The White Ribbon Alliance. The campaign is completely not for profit and all proceeds go directly to each charity partner, the perfect gift for Christmas.

Appearing in an exciting pictorial campaign, eight celebrity ambassadors have been styled in their chosen charity socks for Christmas. Help for Heroes is supported by Gemma Atkinson and Calum Best, The Andrew Flintoff Foundation by Freddie Flintoff and Jeff Brazier, The Bumblebee Conservation Trust by Violet Budd and Tamsin Egerton, and The White Ribbon Alliance is supported by Laura Bailey and Lauren Lavern.

Artist and illustrator, Duncan Cargill has created unique and exclusive designs specific to the theme of each charity, each with exciting illustrations and colour ways stylishly representing who they are and what they stand for. The socks are perfect Christmas gifts or stocking fillers and can be used to brighten up any outfit this Christmas. Each pack costs £9.99 available from MandMDirect.com from mid November.

X Factor Tickets Create Bidding Frenzy In Charity Auction

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Two VIP tickets for the X Factor 29th November live results show in the UK sparked a bidding frenzy within hours of appearing online in a charity auction.

One X Factor fan has already bid a five figure sum to see the final 5 contestants battle it out in the show that has been dubbed the television event of the year.

Bidding began at 9:00 am on 18th November at Pilotlight’s auction website www.pilotlight.org.uk/auction

The two exclusive VIP tickets on offer in the Pilotlight charity auction will allow the lucky winners to witness the tension first hand at a live recording of the show at the Fountain Studios, Wembley and meet with host Dermot O’Leary.

X Factor mania has overtaken the UK this week as audience figures reached a record high of 16 million on Sunday night . ITV’s The X factor is the biggest talent show in Europe with 182,000 auditioning for series 5. The prize is a £1,000,000 recording contract with record label Syco.

Pilotlight helps small charities grow and professionalize. It matches them with voluntary teams of senior business people. Known as ‘Pilotlighters’, these members mentor and coach the charities through the process of planning for growth and financial sustainability. This process is proven to transform the effectiveness of the charities and the lives of those they serve.

Other star-studded lots in the auction to raise £1million for Pilotlight include a private tango lesson with Brian Fortuna, star of Strictly Come Dancing and behind the scenes rehearsal tickets for ’Britain’s Got Talent’.

The online auction for the charity Pilotlight offers the chance to buy festive gifts you won’t find on the High Street – and to benefit a fantastic charity. It runs 18th November to 9th December

More amazing auction lots on offer include:

A day with jewellery designer to the stars Theo Fennell – designing a piece of jewellery in his workshop.
The chance to sit in on the final dress rehearsal of Sir Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s ‘Love Never Dies’, the new show which continues the story of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’
A week’s work experience at the Spectator magazine or a day at Pet Doctors, shadowing a vet.
Watching Prime Minister’s Questions in the House of Commons with veteran political columnist, Chris Buckland. Chris will then analyse the political debate over lunch.

Each of these would make a unique Christmas present.

These prizes and many more will open for online bidding from 18th November to 9th December. Visit: www.pilotlight.org.uk.

LTTS Exclusive - The Variety Club 57th Annual Showbiz Awards

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Richard Barker

Look To The Stars’ UK Correspondent Richard Barker was lucky enough to attend the Variety Club’s 57th Annual Showbiz Awards and filed this exclusive report and photos.

I was delighted to spend some time with A-list celebrities from music, film, theatre and television on the Red Carpet. The event was in aid of one of UK’s longest running children’s charities, The Variety Club, as it celebrated its Diamond Jubilee.

London saw some of the brightest stars from the showbiz world light up London’s West End as they congregated on the Red Carpet at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London W1 to show their support for one of UK’s longest running charities dedicated to sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people – The Variety Club – and to honour the most talented individuals from the world of entertainment at The Variety Club’s 57th Annual Showbiz Awards 2009. Don’t worry readers if you are based in England but weren’t there on the night – you’ll get a chance to watch the glitz, the glamour and hear the gossip on FIVE on Sunday 22nd November 2009 at 3.35pm.

The evening’s star-studded event commenced with an array of international A-list celebrities, industry stalwarts and leading luminaries from the worlds of film, television, comedy, theatre, popular music and classical music gracing the Red Carpet. The guest list welcomed names such as Kevin Spacey, Ben Kingsley, Patrick Stewart, Kelly Brook, Alesha Dixon, Dame Kelly Holmes (Ambassador for The Variety Club), David Suchet, Jon Culshaw, Alan Carr, Justin Lee Collins, Pixie Lott, Spandau Ballet, The Saturdays, Daniela Lavender, Faryl Smith and Joe Calzaghe. The stars shined for cameras as they made their way to an exclusive reception where champagne flutes were overflowing, as a prelude to a gourmet banquet and the coveted awards ceremony, which took place against a theatrical backdrop of exclusive world-class entertainment, including dazzling performances by Spandau Ballet, Pixie Lott and Faryl Smith.

The only event of its kind to honour the entire showbiz industry, this year’s winners included: Kevin Spacey, who was presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre by fellow actor David Suchet; Justin Lee Collins, who was presented with the Television Presenter of the Year Award by Alan Carr; and Spandau Ballet, who were presented with the award for Outstanding Contribution to Popular Music by The Saturdays.

On receiving his award, Sir Ian McKellen said, "This is an over-generous recognition of a career which, in truth, has been its own reward. Acting is working with friends and entertaining people and that’s quite enough for me. The Variety Club is having its 60th birthday, which means I was ten years old at the time in 1949, living in the north of England in Wigan, Lancashire. I was, without knowing it, preparing for a life in show business.

The Variety Club is the essence of life for kids who desperately need the help to get healthy. I am full of admiration for the work you have done for the past 60 years and hope you carry on with the work you do. I am extremely honoured to be associated with this charity and this award."

The Variety Club Showbiz Awards is one of the most eagerly anticipated entries on the British entertainment calendar and has become an international celebrity institution in itself. Nearly every showbiz personality of note from the past 60 years has been honoured by The Variety Club, renowned for its strong links with the showbiz world, including Tommy Trinder, Dame Vera Lynn, Lord Laurence Olivier, Andrew Lloyd-Webber, Sir Alec Guiness, Sir Michael Caine, Dame Helen Mirren, Dame Judy Dench, Ben Kingsley, Diana Dors, Daniel Craig, Keira Knightley, Jude Law, James McAvoy, Al Pacino, Peter Sellers, Tommy Cooper, Ricky Gervais, Alan Carr, The Beatles, Eric Clapton, Katherine Jenkins and Hayley Westenra.

The Variety Club Showbiz Awards raises significant funds for and awareness of the work The Variety Club undertakes to help sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people. Celebrating its Diamond Jubilee this year, the charity has raised over £200 million and improved the lives of more than a million children and young people since its inception. Among its tireless work, the charity provides Sunshine Coaches, Easy Riders electric wheelchairs, exciting and educational trips, equipment for children’s hospitals and life enhancing equipment.

Also at this year’s Showbiz Awards, The Variety Club, in partnership with The Co-operative, revealed the face of its 2010 Gold Heart campaign – Alesha Dixon. The Gold Heart badges will be sold in Co-operative food, bank, travel and pharmacy stores from 28th January 2010. Owned by its members, The Co-operative has a long and proud history of supporting charities, community groups and other good causes. Every £1 donated in-store to the fund will help The Variety Club to provide vital, life-changing equipment to those children that need it most.

John Sachs, Chairman, The Variety Club Showbiz Awards comments, "Once again, the Showbiz Awards has honoured the UK’s top entertainment personalities embracing television, film, comedy, theatre, classical and popular music. As The Variety Club also celebrates its Diamond Jubilee this year, there was even more glamour, showbiz magic and star appeal than ever before.

The prestigious event also helped raise awareness and funds for The Variety Club’s praiseworthy work and as one of the UK’s longest serving charities dedicated to helping sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people, our sole and primary focus is to make sure every child and young person is given the chance to reach their fullest potential."

Here are some facts about The Variety Club:
The Variety Club provides practical solutions to allow sick, disabled and disadvantaged children and young people across the UK to reach their full potential. This year sees The Variety Club celebrate its 60th year of bringing hope, independence and freedom to children and young people. In the past 60 years The Variety Club has raised over £200 million and helped more than a million children and young people. The Variety Club has donated more than 3,300 Easy Riders electric wheelchairs and mobility aids since 1981, put 4,890 Sunshine Coaches on the road and given around £20 million to children’s hospitals. To find out more information or donate go to www.varietyclub.org.uk. Follow the Variety Club on twitter here.

Lucy Liu And Rebecca Mader To Light UNICEF Snowflakes

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:00:00 -0000

UNICEF will light up both New York and Beverly Hills this weekend with the help of some celebrity friends.

Lucy Liu will light the UNICEF Snowflake at a special ceremony on Thursday, November 19, in front of the Louis Vuitton Fifth Avenue store in New York, followed by a similar event at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills featuring Rebecca Mader on Saturday, November 21.

“The UNICEF Snowflake is a special symbol for the world’s most vulnerable children,” said Caryl Stern, President and Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. “Every day 24,000 children die of preventable causes. These iconic snowflakes—at 57th Street and Fifth Avenue in New York and on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills—hang as a reminder of UNICEF’s commitment to reach a day when zero children die from preventable causes.”

Mader will flip the switch to illuminate the brilliant UNICEF Snowflake on Rodeo Drive that will soar over the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel. The Beverly Hills Snowflake contains 12,000 crystals, is 17 feet wide and over 14 feet tall, weighs 1,600 pounds and is illuminated by 125 steady-burning and 300 high-powered flashing LED lights. The evening will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display across the sky above the hotel, which is home to the west coast UNICEF Snowflake.

“The UNICEF Snowflake is the centerpiece of an ambitious program to raise funds for UNICEF’s programs providing immunization, education, health care, nutrition, clean water and sanitation for children in need,” said actress and UNICEF supporter Rebecca Mader. “I am honored to participate in the Beverly Hills lighting ceremony by illuminating the UNICEF Snowflake and helping spread its message of hope, peace and compassion for children worldwide.”

In New York, Lucy Liu is also excited about the event.

“As a native New Yorker I always look forward to seeing the UNICEF Snowflake light up Fifth Avenue,” said actress and UNICEF Ambassador Lucy Liu. “It reminds me that every day, there are 24,000 children worldwide dying from preventable causes. I am especially proud to support UNICEF and their commitment to change that number to zero.”

Appointed a UNICEF Ambassador in 2004, Liu has used her influence as a force for the survival, protection and development of children worldwide. She has traveled to Lesotho, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cote d’Ivoire and Peru to witness UNICEF’s lifesaving work and to advocate on behalf of the world’s most vulnerable children.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Snowflake. Donated by the Stonbely Family Foundation in 2002, the UNICEF Snowflake has become an iconic fixture in New York City during the holiday season, hanging high above the intersection of 5th Avenue and 57th Street. It was handcrafted by German lighting designer Ingo Maurer and is adorned with 16,000 Baccarat crystal prisms. At 23 feet in diameter, over 28 feet in height and weighing 3,300 pounds, the UNICEF Snowflake is the largest outdoor chandelier of its kind. The UNICEF Snowflake ceremony is open to the public and will be illuminated for the entire holiday season.

The evening’s celebration, which will be telecast live to the Spectacolor CNN billboard in Times Square, will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a festive recital by Broadway Kids Care, a group of children from current and past Broadway shows who come together to participate in a variety of charitable works. Following their performance, Lucy Liu, Caryl Stern and Daniel Lalonde, President and CEO of Louis Vuitton North America, will take the stage and flip the switch to illuminate the UNICEF Snowflake. Immediately following the ceremony Louis Vuitton, proud sponsor of the UNICEF Snowflake lighting this year, will host a reception to celebrate the lighting in their flagship store on 5th Avenue.

“We are honored to have Lucy light the UNICEF Snowflake and kick off the giving season in New York City,” said Caryl Stern, President and Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. “She is a great friend to UNICEF and a dedicated supporter of our mission to reach a day when zero children die from preventable causes.”

In Beverly Hills, festivities will begin at 3:00 PM with the official lighting at 7:00 PM. Visitors to this famed dream drive will enjoy free entertainment – from balloon artists to jugglers, caricature artists to musicians. The streets are ripe with photo opportunities as well, with striking new holiday decor, lights and banners throughout the Golden Triangle and complimentary pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Ewan McGregor To Go Go For Charity

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Ewan McGregor will host a special event for charity in Los Angeles this Friday, November 20.

The 2009 Go Go Gala will benefit the Go Campaign’s efforts to help orphans and vulnerable children in countries such as China, Kenya, Liberia, Peru and Tanzania. Taking place at Social Hollywood at 6525 West Sunset Blvd, the event will feature a selection of cirque performers as well as a special performance by Dave Stewart. Guests will include Evangeline Lilly.

The Go Campaign is dedicated to empowering orphans and vulnerable children throughout the world to secure a better future. It raises awareness and funds for those programs that would otherwise fall through the cracks, those programs which provide basic human needs to children such as shelter, food, clean water, education, medical care, vocational training, and income-generating activities.

To find out more info about the event and the campaign, click here.

Harrison Ford To Host Environmental Charity Awards

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart will host a special event for Oceana this Friday, November 20, to honor Deepak Chopra and Arianna Huffington.

The 2009 Oceana Partners Award Gala honors those individuals who have made outstanding contributions through their personal commitment to the cause of protecting and conserving the environment. Arianna Huffington is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Huffington Post, a nationally syndicated columnist, and author of 12 books. Dr. Deepak Chopra is the Founder of Chopra Center for Wellbeing in Carlsbad, California and Manhattan, New York. He is also the author of many best-selling books.

Joining Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart in hosting the event will be Morgan Freeman, Jeff Goldblum, Trudie Styler, Sting, Robert Redford and Ron Howard. Working behind the scenes are Ted Danson and Sam Waterston.

The event will take place at the private residence of Keri Selig and Keith Addis in Los Angeles. To find out more about the event, visit the official website.

Bob Barker’s Donation To Fund Animal Rights Classes

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:30:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

‘Price is Right’ host Bob Barker might have retired from TV, but he has not stopped campaigning on behalf of the animals. The legendary icon went home to Drury University to drop another major financial gift on his Alma matter, a check for $1 million!

Barker’s donation to Drury will go towards establishing the Dorothy Jo Barker Professorship in Animal Rights. Named for Barker’s late wife, the program will offer intense course study on animal issues like cruelty and philosophy.

“What we’re doing here today is something they’re going to be talking about all across the country” said Barker. “At the very least, the students who take this class will have more respect for animals.”

“It’s taught by 6 professors all experts in their field. There’s no other class like this in the United States” said professor Dr. Patricia McEachern.  Barker’s deep passion for animal rights was born about 40 years ago when he was asked to do TV commercials for an animal shelter in Los Angeles, after learning about the atrocities against animals, he felt compelled to get involved.  "It’s become a real passion for me" says Barker.

Putting his passion where his checkbook is, Barker is not just funding animal study programs at Drury – he’s got eight other universities earmarked for the same program.

Eva Longoria And Friends To Rally For Kids With Cancer

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:00:00 -0000

Eva Longoria will once again rev her engine for charity this year when she takes part in the Rally for Children With Cancer.

The Rally for Kids with Cancer is where celebrity navigators and drivers maneuver through seven unique pit stops throughout the Miami area earning points in their quest to raise funds to help Jackson Memorial Foundation, International Kids Fund (IKF) and Holtz Children’s Hospital and provide hope that one day the end to cancer can be celebrated.

Joining Longoria at the event will be Adam Rodriguez (Actor, CSI: Miami), Eva La Rue (Actress, CSI: Miami), Gilles Marini (Actor, Sex and the City), Vivica Fox (Actress, Independence Day, Soul Food), Vanessa A. Williams (Actress, Imagine That), Bai Ling (Actress, Crank: High Voltage), Lennox Lewis (Former World Heavyweight Champion), Sofia Milos (Actress, CSI: Miami), Elsa Benitez (Super Model and Sports Illustrated Cover Girl), Tiny Lister (Actor, “Friday” series) and many more.

The event starts with a Qualifiers’ Party at Casa de Sueños, 2954 North Bay Road, Miami, on Friday, November 20. This will be followed by the rally itself, which starts at 11:30am on November 21 at Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach, 4525 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach. Saturday night will see rally drivers, celebrity navigators, sponsors and invited guests revel in memories from the past two days while enjoying an incredible dinner, first-class entertainment, live auction and awards ceremony.

Jack Johnson Donates Tour And Album To Charity

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Jack Johnson’s latest release, En Concert, is on sale now – and all proceeds are going to charity.

En Concert chronicles the “special visual and musical moments from Jack Johnson’s 2008 Sleep Through The Static world tour” and features Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder. 100% of the 2008 tour profits and the proceeds from the live album will go to the Kokua Hawaii Foundation – which supports environmental education in the schools and communities of Hawaii – and the Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation, which matches fans’ donations to the local charities featured in the Village Green area at each of his shows (up to $2500 per concert).

To celebrate the release of the album, Johnson played an intimate acoustic set in front of a hugely enthusiastic audience at the Hawaii Theatre in Honolulu last week, with proceeds going to the Kokua Hawaii Foundation.

Look To The Stars’ founder Myrlia Purcell volunteered for Jack Johnson’s All At Once Campaign during his 2008 tour. To read her report of her experience, click here.

Jon Lovitz Leads Silly Walks For Charity

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:30:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

October 2009 marked the beginning of the 40th Anniversary year for the classic comedy team Monty Python, and comedian Jon Lovitz is spearheading a charity event to celebrate.

Fans of spam, dead parrots, lumberjacks and the Spanish Inquisition (“Nobody ever expects the Spanish Inquisition!”) will flock to the first ever Silly Walks For Hunger event on November 19, which will give fans and fun-seekers an opportunity to show off their own “silly walks” while participating in a world-class live production—and all for a good cause: hunger relief.

“I have been a Monty Python fan for years,” said Jon Lovitz, who in May opened his own comedy club in the heart of Universal CityWalk, and who will act as the Minister of SillyWalks for the day. “We’ll be doing good by behaving silly… what a great way to honor their work. It’s perfect!”

SillyWalks for Hunger aims to “raise enough awareness, food and money for 1,000,000 meals to be provided to families, children and elderly in L.A. and across the nation this holiday season.” Supporters can text the word “FEED” to 90999 to make a $5 donation – they will be donating the equivalent of approximately 20 meals towards meeting the goal.

The Monty Python team originally featured John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Terry Gilliam and Graham Chapman.

Beneficiaries of SillyWalks for Hunger will be Feeding America, the Los Angeles Regional Foodbank, and Global FoodBanking Network.

Registration for the event – which starts at the Universal CityWalk on Thursday – starts at 5:30pm. Bring a bag of non-perishable food to enter. For more info, click here.

Greg Olsen’s Charity Concert Attracts Celebrities

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Written by Delinda Lombardo

Actor Vince Vaughn was one of the many famous faces in the Chicago crowd last weekend when he attended Greg Olsen’s ‘Shake the Lake Musical Festival’ at Joe’s Bar to benefit the Receptions for Research charity.

The event featured performances by country music stars Keith Anderson and David Nail, as well as appearances by Olsen’s teammates Jay Cutler, Tommie Harris, Hunter Hillenmeyer and Earl Bennett. Other Chicago athletes who stepped up to support Receptions For Research included Cubs pitcher Randy Wells and former Blackhawk Chris Chelios, who is currently playing with the Chicago Wolves.

In case you missed this show, you still have a chance to catch Carrie Underwood who will play at Joe’s for charity on Dec. 3. Click here for more info.

Receptions for Research believes everyone deserves a second chance at life, and it is their goal to provide hospitals, doctors, and researchers the necessary resources to save those affected with debilitating diseases.

Eva Longoria Honored For Philanthropy

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:00:00 -0000

Written by Tim Saunders

Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria has been honored as Philanthropist of the Year by The Hollywood Reporter.

The actress “was chosen for her relentless dedication to giving back to her community and serving others as well as for her long-standing commitment to Latino causes.”

“I’ve never met a more conscientious and socially aware young, energetic talent,” said THR publisher Eric Mika. “Eva’s efforts on behalf of the causes near and dear to her are Herculean. She pours her free time and energy into raising millions of dollars for charitable missions that make a difference in the Latino community and other humanitarian organizations.”

Longoria founded Eva’s Heroes to help developmentally disadvantaged children and has been the National Spokesperson for Padres Contra el Cancer since 2005.

Having grown up with an intellectually disabled sister, Longoria considers her sister her hero. “She has given me so much inspiration and hope to face everyday with the strength and courage she has had her whole life. She has never seen herself with a disability and only sees the good in everyone and everything.”

Video Spotlight: Celebrities Help Heifer Change Lives

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:54:00 -0000

Ted Danson, Mary Steenburgen, Constance Zimmer, Eva Amurri and Jon and Kirsten Heder talk about how you can help change not just one life, but the lives of an entire community, with Heifer International, at the “12 Stones” premiere in Los Angeles.

About 12 Stones: An inspiring story of a group of formerly illiterate women in Nepal who today are empowered leaders in their community thanks to Heifer International’s support.

Can you bring an entire village out of poverty by first empowering its women? Breathtaking cinematography and a powerful story combine in award-winning 12 Stones, a short documentary directed by Sandy Smolan and narrated by Diane Lane that captures the uplifiting journey of a group of formerly illiterate women in Nepal.

Visit pitecreative.com to learn more about the film.

Host: Erin Mooney
Editor: Jamie Hall
Lighting & Sound: Kaveh Niknia
Camera: Ben Aldanese

(Click here to view the video if it doesn't appear above.)

Spotlight: End Hunger Network's Celebrity Supporters

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:11:00 -0000

Bringing Americans together to end hunger in the United States

Celebrity supporters

End Hunger Network has 15 known supporters, including Tim McGraw, Pierce Brosnan, and Bob Dylan

Areas of work

Hunger

Read more about End Hunger Network's work and celebrity supporters.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Spotlight: Bo Derek's Charity Work

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:10:00 -0000

Bo Derek routinely visits hospitalized veterans. She is National Honorary Chairperson for Veterans Administration’s National Rehabilitation Special Events.

She attended the 17th annual Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic held in Snowmass Village at Aspen, Colorado.

In 2003, Derek was presented with the VA’s highest honor by Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs, Anthony Principi.

Read more about Bo Derek's charity work and events.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Spotlight: Hope North's Celebrity Supporters

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:45:00 -0000

Hope North is a 40-acre campus in northern Uganda where refugees, orphans and escaped child soldiers find a place to call home. With an accredited secondary school and vocational training center, this safe and vibrant cultural setting provides a haven for resident students to rebuild their lives through education and job training.

Celebrity supporters

Hope North has 3 known supporters, including Forest Whitaker, Susan Sarandon, and Jane Kaczmarek

Areas of work

Read more about Hope North's work and celebrity supporters.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Spotlight: Alicia Keys's Charity Work

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:15:00 -0000

Keys is the ambassador for Keep A Child Alive, and has travelled to countries such as Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa. While she was there she spoke to teens and young adults who’ve lost their parents to AIDS and are now the heads of their own households.

Keys was also the musical director for the 2006 Keep A Child Alive Charity Gala, and offered a private concert as a prize in an auction to benefit the charity.

She is also a spokesperson for Frum Tha Ground Up, a charity dedicated to inspiring and motivating American youths to achieve success on all levels.

Read more about Alicia Keys's charity work and events.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Spotlight: Jonas Brothers's Charity Work

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:13:00 -0000

The Jonas Brothers have donated over $1 million to their charity, Change for the Children Foundation.

They established the charity to support programs that motivate and inspire children to face adversity with confidence, determination and a will to succeed.

The pop-rock band signed a guitar for an auction raising funds for Revlon Run/Walk For Women.

Read more about Jonas Brothers's charity work and events.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Spotlight: USA Harvest's Celebrity Supporters

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:19:00 -0000

Collecting surplus food from restaurants, hospitals and food suppliers and deliver it to missions, soup kitchens and food banks – Moving food from people who have too much, to those who have much too little!

Celebrity supporters

USA Harvest has 4 known supporters, including Scarlett Johansson, Hilary Duff, and Green Day

Areas of work

Read more about USA Harvest's work and celebrity supporters.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Spotlight: DKMS's Celebrity Supporters

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:46:00 -0000

Connecting bone marrow and stem cell donors with patients in need.

With assistance from donors and patients, family and friends, DKMS has become the largest donor center in the world.

Celebrity supporters

DKMS has 7 known supporters, including Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, and Cindy Crawford

Areas of work

Read more about DKMS's work and celebrity supporters.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Spotlight: Greg Grunberg's Charity Work

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:45:00 -0000

Grunberg is a member of the Band From TV. He performs for the Epilepsy Foundation. He was inspired to start the band by his son, who has epilepsy.

He often organizes charity efforts to raise funds for the Pediatric Epilepsy Project in Los Angeles. These efforts have included events such as an auction of guitars handpainted by celebrities such as Donald Trump, Pink and Grunberg’s “Alias” costars Jennifer Garner and Michael Vartan, as well as an online auction of cartoons drawn of “Heroes” costars.

In March 2007, Greg served as the chair of the first National Walk for Epilepsy, presented by the Epilepsy Foundation.

Read more about Greg Grunberg's charity work and events.

Want to write for us, or help with our research? Find out more about contributing.

Video Spotlight: Adrian Grenier, Actor and Activist

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:47:00 -0000

When actor Adrian Grenier joined President Clinton to launch the Clinton Foundation’s Millennium Network in Los Angeles, he was inspired by the promise of Millennium Network to bring together future leaders from all over the world to address the most pressing issues of our time.

In Los Angeles, more than 600 young professionals attend the Millennium Network event to learn more about how they could get involved in the Clinton Foundation’s work.

(Click here to view the video if it doesn't appear above.)

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