Heidi Klum at amfAR Inspiration Gala Los Angeles
Credit/Copyright: Kevin Tachman
The event paid tribute to Jeffrey Katzenberg, Chairman of DreamWorks New Media, and Academy Award-winning actress and United Nations Messenger of Peace Charlize Theron in recognition of their exceptional contributions to the fight against AIDS. The event, presented by Harry Winston and M•A•C Viva Glam, raised over $2 million for amfAR’s life-saving AIDS research programs.
Jason Derulo Performs At amfAR Inspiration Gala LA
Credit/Copyright: amfAR
Sophia Amoruso, Fredrik Eklund, Jay Ellis, Estelle, Peter Fonda, David Foster, David Furnish, Brad Goreski, Kelsey Grammer, Courtney Love, Angela Lindvall, Maureen McCormick, Jesse Metcalfe, Shemar Moore, Mia Moretti, Samantha Ronson, Cara Santana, Milissa Sears, Teddy Sears, Nina Senicar, and others were also in attendance.
The evening began with a Disney-themed musical tribute to honoree Jeffrey Katzenberg. A 10-piece orchestra performed Aladdin’s “Friend Like Me,” and American Horror Story star Cheyenne Jackson and Glee’s Jane Lynch then took the stage to perform Aladdin’s “A Whole New World.” Longtime amfAR supporter Heidi Klum then welcomed guests and introduced amfAR Chairman of the Board Kenneth Cole. Mr. Cole spoke passionately about amfAR’s Countdown to a Cure for AIDSinitiative, which is aimed at developing the scientific basis of a cure by 2020.
Barry Diller presented the amfAR Award of Inspiration to his friend Jeffrey Katzenberg, stating “for those who need to be inspired by example, here he is.” Katzenberg was recognized for his support of a wide range of AIDS-related and other charitable causes, including amfAR and AIDS Project Los Angeles, of which he serves as a Trustee. In his acceptance remarks Katzenberg cited the progress that has been made against HIV/AIDS thanks to organizations like amfAR and stressed that “AIDS has never been just a health issue, it is also a human rights issue.”
Chelsea Handler presented the amfAR Award of Inspiration to the “uncompromising” Charlize Theron, “because in the fight against AIDS, we need uncompromising.” Theron founded the Charlize Theron Africa Outreach Project in 2007 to support African youth in the fight against HIV/AIDS by providing them with important tools and skills to live healthy and productive lives, and also serves as a United Nations Messenger of Peace. Accepting the award, she discussed her personal connection to HIV/AIDS growing up in South Africa, and stated that “to end this epidemic, we need big bold investments in science and medicine [and] big, bold investments in outreach.”
The event also featured a colorful and competitive live auction, conducted by Alexander Gilkes, who encouraged guests to give generously to amfAR’s efforts to find a cure for HIV.
• Model Angela Lindvall helped introduce exquisite Harry Winston earrings, featuring 124 round brilliant diamonds. Titled “Belle,” in tribute to the 1920s jewelry estate of Arabella Huntington, these earrings weigh a total of approximately 1.09 carats and sold for $40,000.
• Haggadah, a work by renowned German artist Gerhard Richter, sold for $75,000.
• A seven-night stay for six adults at one of the most luxurious and exclusive residences in the Maldives, the beachfront Sunrise Retreat on Soneva Fushi, sold for $70,000.
• Two tickets to the Givenchy runway show in Paris during the 2016-2017 season, as well as a ready-to-wear Givenchy outfit with private shopping experience, a Givenchy bag, and round-trip airfare for two on Delta One sold for $50,000
• Donuts (Chocolate), a work by the world’s most famous and mysterious street artist, Banksy, sold for $50,000 to Event Chair Aileen Getty, who also pledged $100,000 to amfAR later in the auction.
• A playful and mesmerizing hand-painted mural by the Haas Brothers, titled Animal Party and introduced by one of the artists, sold for $95,000.
• An opportunity to explore the legendary Rainbow Mountain hidden deep within the Andes of Peru with Johan Ernst Nilson, one of the world’s leading explorers, sold twice for a total of $120,000.
The evening ended with an explosive performance by pop and R&B sensation Jason Derulo, who performed a set of his biggest hits including “Whatcha Say,” “Wiggle,” “Talk Dirty,” and “Want To Want Me.”
Aileen Getty and amfAR Chairman of the Board Kenneth Cole served as Event Chairs. Will Arnett, Antonio Banderas, Matt Bomer and Simon Halls, Steve Buscemi, Nicolas Cage, John Demsey, America Ferrera, amfAR Global Fundraising Chairman Milutin Gatsby, Jim Gianopulos, Charles Gibb, Jon Hamm, Nayla Hayek, Kevine Huvane, Stephen Huvane, Cheyenne Jackson, Milla Jovovich, Anna Kendrick, Heidi Klum, Donna Langley, Andrew Lipman, Willie Maldonado, Ron Meyer, Dame Helen Mirren, Eddie Murphy, Gary Newman, Denis O’Hare, Sean Patterson, Alan Poul and Ari Karpel, Tricia Quick, Peter Rice, Vincent Roberti, Rich Ross and Adam Sanderson, Zoe Saldana, Jeff Shell, Martin Short, Stacey Snider, Jeffrey Tambor, Dana Walden, Stephen Warren, and Catherine Zeta-Jones served as Event Co-Chairs.
The event was presented by Harry Winston and M•A•C Viva Glam. Cadillac and Moët Hennessy were the event’s Signature Sponsors. MILK was the Associate Sponsor. Delta Air Lines is the Official Airline of amfAR.
The Inspiration series was launched in 2010 by amfAR and Josh Wood Productions to celebrate men’s style and fashion while raising funds for the Foundation’s life-saving AIDS research programs. Inspiration galas have taken place in New York, Paris, Los Angeles, Toronto, Miami, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro, raising more than $26 million to date.
Oct 31, 2016 12:30 pm
Former New York City Mayor and Founder of Bloomberg LP, Michael Bloomberg, attended a charity trading event hosted by the company’s agency brokerage business.
Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation – Musician and philanthropist, Jon Bon Jovi
Credit/Copyright: Lori Hoffman/Bloomberg
Thursday was Bloomberg Tradebook’s fifth annual Charity Day, which raised money for 20 charities globally with the support of celebrity ambassadors. In the last four years this event has raised nearly $4 million in trading commissions in support of charitable causes.
Endometriosis Foundation of America – Author, Executive Producer & Host of Top Chef, Padma Lakshmi
Credit/Copyright: Lori Hoffman/Bloomberg
Jon Bon Jovi, Victor Cruz, Renee Goldsberry, Padma Lakshmi and Boomer Esiasonwere among the celebrities that partnered with Bloomberg Tradebook in New York to raise money and grow awareness for their causes.
Michael R. Bloomberg takes part in Bloomberg Tradebook’s fifth annual Charity Day
Credit/Copyright: Lori Hoffman/Bloomberg
Trading activities in Hong Kong, London and New York helped Bloomberg Tradebook exceed this year’s target fundraising amount.
Charity Day is part of Bloomberg LP’s larger commitment to giving back and just one example of the numerous philanthropic efforts that Bloomberg and its brokerage business, Tradebook are involved year-round. The company’s philanthropy and engagement program supports causes and efforts that strengthen communities and improve quality of life worldwide.
“Philanthropy and public service are core values of our company,” said Founder of Bloomberg LP, Michael R. Bloomberg. “We’re proud to welcome new and returning celebrity ambassadors for our fifth annual Charity Day and encouraged to see the positive impact the event has had in our communities around the world.”
“As we celebrate our fifth Charity Day, we continue to receive immense support from the industry around our philanthropic endeavors,” said Glenn Lesko, CEO and President of Bloomberg Tradebook. “We’re excited to engage our employees and clients in Bloomberg’s strong tradition of giving back, raising money and awareness around several important causes.”
Oct 31, 2016 11:15 am David Guetta joins Generation Now (GenNow Fest), the first major festival to celebrate, empower, and inspire the youth of Central America to champion positive change in their communities.
David Guetta joins Generation Now youth festival for Central America
Glasswing International has partnered with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Istmo Music, MTV Agentes de Cambio, and Global Citizen Festival executive producers Riot House to organize GenNow Fest, a two-day, socially focused festival that will take place on November 11 and 12 at the historic Estadio Cuscatlán in San Salvador, El Salvador. Guetta will be joined by Chino y Nacho and NERVO.
“I am thrilled to be participating in Generation Now Festival, my only performance in Central America this year. I truly believe that this is a generation of change, a generation that will inspire, the generation that will fulfill the potential of these beautiful countries. Music has the power to unite. Let’s all unite on the dancefloor,” said David Guetta, globally recognized DJ/Producer.
GenNow Fest will celebrate local heroes and mobilize youth to generate positive attention to the region as well as promote youth engagement and intercultural understanding. The event’s objective is to incentivize youth to take an active role as agents of change in their society and to encourage them to do it now. In the spirit of the festival, MTV Latin America will be presenting one of the artists with the prestigious MTV Chiuku Award, which recognizes celebrities who positively use their influence to contribute and develop special projects helping improve their communities as “Agents of Change.”
“It’s an honor and joy to count on artists like David Guetta, Chino y Nacho, NERVO, and others to inspire and benefit Central American youth. We are convinced that with this event and their performances, we will generate greater educational and development opportunities for the communities in which we work,” said Celina de Sola, co-founder and vice president of programs at Glasswing International. “All proceeds of GenNow Fest will go to youth programs in public schools in Central America through Glasswing International.”
Other personalities participating in GenNow Fest include motivational speaker Maickel Melamed; Fabian Debora from Homeboy Industries; MTV VJ Pamela Voguel; pro skateboarders Chico Brenes and Monica Torres; rappers Snif and MC KO CO; break dancers Stimpy, Snapshot and Wandeepop, and Kid Glyde; DJs Loup Rouge, Lebangy, B-One, and Mussa; Salvadoran graffiti artists Eddi E.S. Crew and Skar; and various Central American celebrities as masters of ceremonies.
Approximately 30,000 Central American youth are expected to attend the event which will include:
• A youth forum featuring global speakers who will focus on motivating, inspiring, and empowering youth;
• An expo center where international organizations, NGOs, and businesses will share information on community projects, volunteer opportunities, and corporate social responsibility programs;
• Social dialogue roundtables to discuss topics relevant to youth in the region;
• Performances from recognized national and international artists;
• An arts and culture center, skate park, sports and recreation arena, tech village, and more.
Two weeks prior to GenNow Fest, Glasswing International will simultaneously execute the “Manos a la Obra Now” social project in all Central American capitals, where thousands of volunteers will be mobilized to transform parks, schools, and other public spaces in major cities. After the festival, youth will still have an opportunity to take an active role in their communities by presenting a proposal for a social project and competing to win a grant to receive financial support to execute it in their community.
Oct 31, 2016 10:00 am
What will Pee-wee Herman be handing out to trick-or-treaters this Halloween? “Root Beer Barrels! Root Beer Barrels! They’re vegan!” proclaims the actor in his timely new ad for PETA.
Pee Wee Herman PETA Ad
The star, whose love of the classic hard candies is well documented, encourages shoppers to load up their baskets with only vegan sweets this holiday and to avoid those with frightful animal-derived ingredients.
Says the comedian: “Boo! Pee-wee Herman here, reminding you that the most delicious Halloween candy is vegan. Root Beer Barrels are my favorite, but for all you little witches, ghouls, and hungry characters out there, Smarties, Swedish Fish, and Airheads are great choices, too—and that’s enough to make your teeth rot right out of your head! Eat smart, eat with heart: Choose vegan candy!”
Every day is a horror story for animals used for food, and some candies contain gelatin made from animal bones, red food coloring called carmine made from ground-up bugs, or milk—which contains pus from cows whose udders get bacterial infections on factory farms and whose babies are torn away from them. Fortunately, PETA — whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to eat” — has compiled a list of vegan candies, including the following:
• Airheads
• Atomic Fireballs
• Blow Pops
• Chick-O-Sticks
• Dots
• Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews
• Hot Tamales
• Jolly Ranchers
• Lemonheads
• Mamba Fruit Chews
• Mike and Ike
• Runts
• Skittles
• Smarties
• Sour Patch Kids
• Swedish Fish
• SweeTARTS
• Twizzlers
Paul Reubens, aka “Pee-wee Herman,” joins a growing list of celebrities — including Wendi McLendon-Covey, Fred Willard, Jane Lynch, Steve-O, Marc Maron, David Cross, and many others — who have teamed up with PETA.
Oct 31, 2016 08:45 am Animal Defenders International (ADI) has joined forces with comedian Ricky Gervaisand musician Moby to give shoppers a great way to raise money for animals in need, with the launch of ADI’s new online store.
Moby poses in one of ADI’s new T-Shirts
Moby poses in one of ADI’s new T-Shirts, sporting an image of Pepe the Spider monkey, one of over 100 animals rescued by ADI earlier this year from circuses and the illegal wildlife trade in South America. Ricky’s cat Ollie, famous in his own right with 35,000 Twitter followers, can be seen happily ‘lion’ atop a T-Shirt of Rey, the ex-circus lion from Peru. The full range of gifts, ideal for animal lovers of all ages, can be found here with 100% of the profits going towards ADI’s work to save animals.
There are gifts and accessories to suit all budgets and interests, from fashion items, such as hats and T-Shirts, to Christmas cards and canvas prints of rescued animals.
Jan Creamer ADI President said “The ADI store has some great items, perfect for Christmas presents, so you can not only look good, but do good with your money. The proceeds help ADI end the suffering of animals in captivity.”
Shoppers will also be first in line to pick up the multi-award winning film ‘Lion Ark’ out on DVD in November. The critically acclaimed documentary follows the story of the dramatic rescue and relocation of 25 lions from circuses in Bolivia.
The Lion Ark DVD also carries short films about this year’s rescue, where over 100 wild animals had been saved from circuses and the illegal wildlife trade in Peru and Colombia. This culminated in a massive airlift of more than 30 lions, from South American circuses, home to Africa. ADI is raising funds for a huge natural habitat construction project for the lions costing over $250,000.
Timed with the release of the DVD, Lion Ark is hitting the road, screening at theaters across the US. Each event includes a Q&A with the filmmakers and rescuers, giving the inside story on frontline rescues.
Joanna Lumley and Chris Packham have joined Cruelty Free International in appealing to The Silver Spoon Company and other UK sugar companies to use their influential position in the global sugar market to help protect the monkeys of Mauritius.
The animal protection organisation’s latest campaign, launched last week, is encouraging UK sugar retailers to raise concerns with the Mauritius Government about the suffering that is inflicted on the country’s monkey population.
Mauritius is one of the world’s largest suppliers of monkeys for experiments, including to the UK. Tens of thousands of monkeys, many of whom were captured from the wild, are held in large-scale facilities across Mauritius. Denied the lush foliage of their jungle homes, these monkeys spend their lives behind bars on concrete while their offspring are exported overseas, in small wooden crates, as cargo on airlines.
Sugar is a major export for Mauritius and an estimated 600,000 tonnes is produced each year, most of which is exported to the EU. The industry is worth approximately $218 million per year to the country.
The Silver Spoon Company is a division of the Associated British Foods (ABF) group. One of its well-known high street brands, Billington’s, imports unrefined sugars from Mauritius which is widely sold in UK supermarkets.
A new video released today by Cruelty Free International is aimed at caring consumers and bakers who are being urged to contact The Silver Spoon Company to help protect the monkeys of Mauritius.
TV and film star Joanna Lumley said: “I am delighted to support Cruelty Free International and their campaign calling on UK sugar companies to help keep Mauritius monkeys in the wild where they belong.”
TV presenter and wildlife expert Chris Packham said: “I’m joining Cruelty Free International in their campaign to end the trade in Mauritius monkeys for experiments. We’re asking UK sugar companies like The Silver Spoon Company to use their influence to send a message to the Mauritius government: the beautiful island of Mauritius should be sweet for monkeys too.”
Cruelty Free International Chief Executive, Michelle Thew stated: “We hope caring consumers and bakers will join us in calling on The Silver Spoon Company to use its influence and raise concerns with the Mauritius Government about the country’s cruel trade in monkeys. Together, we can make life on Mauritius sweeter for the monkeys.”
