The exclusive gifting lounges GBK produces are platforms for celebrity, charities and businesses to come together for fun, support, promotion and a lot of great swag. The “Rock N’ Royalty-themed Gift Lounge at the SLS Hotel also honored the nominees and presenters and other distinguished musical talent for the 2011 American Music Awards.

Many actors and Hollywood personalities such as Twilight’s Bronson Pelletier, Brooke Hogan, Mike, “The Situation,” Sorrentino, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, Taio Cruz, Javier Colon of NBC’s “The Voice”, Chaka Khan, Melanie Amaro and Stereo Hogzz of FOX’s “The X-Factor,” “Days of our Lives’” Galen Gering, David Banner, Lil Jon, Skylar Grey and more were onhand for the celebration.

In addition to the myriad of celebrities present at the lounge, GBK gave a few up and coming musicians the opportunity to perform. The performing musicians included the GBK house band, FREQUENCY 5, pop-funk singer DeQn Sue, Angelyna Martinez, Paul Nagi, Brad Standley & The Foxflies, Stazz, JDrew and Neon Fangs. “We were fortunate to have many talented musicians and celebrities support the charities on site,” Gavin Keilly, GBK CEO said.

The charities at the GBK “Rock N’ Royalty” Lounge included:

Cuddly Bags – created by 10 year old J’Rose, which provides comfort items to children entering the foster care system. Cuddly Bags are filled with comfort items for kids who are taken from their homes with little or no belongings. The bags are intended to give the kids “something to hold on to” and give them comfort during their difficult time and transition into foster care. For more information about Cuddly Bags visit – www.facebook.com/cuddlybags, Click here to see her Youtube Channel for J’Rose’s music…

Click here to view the embedded video.

“Pushing the limits of art, compassion, and healing,” Drawing Hope International uses visual art to join thousands of sexual assault survivors from every state in the U.S. and 150 other countries into a healing community which supports survivors to connect with their own strength, see their beauty and embrace their freedom. For more information about Drawing Hope International visit – www.pointswithpurpose.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Also at the lounge was the Art of Peace Charitable Trust, which advocates for weapons reduction in the United States. Displayed was the beautiful angel that was crafted  from melted down guns and nuclear missle casings! They gifted a limited edition California Peace Angel print, signed by the artist Lin Evola. This print represents the hope for a violence-free future. For more information about the Art of Peace Charitable Trust visit – www.AOPCT.com

Click here to view the embedded video.

Two Degrees Food, dedicated to helping the starving children of the world at the GBK Rock N’ Royalty Gifting Lounge for the 2011 American Music. This is an altruistic company with a solid, workable plan to save starving children in Africa and Haiti. For more info, go to: www.Twodegreesfood.com, and the charity that distributes food donated by Two Degrees, www.ActionAgainstHunger.org

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to check out all the great brands and businesses that gifted the stars at the GBK “Rock N’ Royalty-themed Gift Lounge at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills.

GBK is the recipient of multiple BizBash Awards for “Best Gift Bag,” and will be producing gifting suites in honor of the following upcoming award shows: Golden Globes, the DirecTV’s Beach Bowl during Super Bowl Weekend and the Academy Awards.

GBK, formerly GBK Productions, is a luxury lifestyle gifting and special events company, specializing in entertainment marketing integration. Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Special Events, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. Widely known in the entertainment industry for bringing that little extra something into the Gifting Lounge environment, GBK offers its clients a full range of marketing services. For more information on Gavin B. Keilly (CEO), Carla Domen (VP) or GBK, please go to gbkproductions.com

The 1st Annual National Family Pack Walk will begin at 2 pm on October 30, 2011 and feature a 1.5-mile pack walk around Lake Balboa Park with Cesar Millan and Scooby-Doo. Also in the events highlights are a Mutt-i-grees reading lounge and Scooby-Doo screening room, gaming room, photo booth, scavenger hunt, Halloween doggie costume contest, meet and greet with Scooby-Doo costume characters, and much more!

1st Annual National Family Pack Walk
Lake Balboa Park
6300 Balboa Blvd.
Van Nuys, CA 91406
(Follow signs upon arrival)

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For more on Cesar Millan

Duran and other celebrities and dignitaries welcomed more than 30,000 Angelino walkers who filled the streets of West Hollywood on Sunday, Oct. 16 to help raise awareness and donations for the AIDS Project Los Angeles (APLA) for the 27th year of the AIDS Walk Los Angeles, California’s first and largest AIDS fundraising event. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $69 million to fight HIV/AIDS in Los Angeles, and the AIDS Walk movement has raised more than a half billion dollars nationwide.

The event kicked off with an intimate breakfast at The Abbey Restaurant in West Hollywood. Members of the media, APLA board members, congressmen/women and volunteers enjoyed a warm breakfast under the fall ambiance of the indoor/outdoor restaurant. With bellies full and spirits high, attendees were escorted down the street to the Opening Ceremony stage at the corner of San Vicente and Santa Monica Blvd to kick off the festivities. Guest speakers included Los Angles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, West Hollywood Mayor John Duran, celebrities Drew Carey (The Price Is Right), Carson Kressley and Louis Van Amstel (Dancing With the Stars), Dot Jones (Glee), Pauley Perrette (NCIS) and many more.

At 10:00am, walkers lined up and began their 6.2 mile journey through the heart of West Hollywood, some dressed in costumes, some marching in groups designated with brightly decorated signs, and others walking together as a family with matching shirts featuring the face of a loved one lost by this epidemic.

“Overcoming economic challenges that continue to hit especially hard here in Southern California, our 30,000 participants filled the streets and raised more than $3 million to fight AIDS and provide vital care for people living with HIV,” said Craig Miller, Founder and Producer of the event.

For more information on APLA and their positive impact on the Los Angeles area or to donate, visit aidswalk.net. Donations will continue to be accepted through Friday, November 11.

LA’s The Place Magazine was a proud sponsor.

Many of these animals are boiled or skinned while they are still alive just so that they can be turned into shoes, bags, belts, and other accessories. Watch as Joaquin narrates peta2′s behind-the-scenes footage of the exotic-skin trade.

Smallville’s Supergirl Laura Vandervoort is asking, “Who’s skin are you in”? By appearing in her PETA ad as a majestic lizard basking in the sun, Laura reminds us how beautiful reptiles are in their natural habitats—and that that is where they belong. Laura is one of the many actresses that are using their clout to deliver a message to the world that it’s not ok to torture and abuse animals. She has joined PETA’s campaign urging consumers to leave wildlife out of their wardrobes and embrace faux instead.  Laura is a fixture in Maxim’s Hot 100 list, and you’ll be able to catch her in theaters in a number of upcoming films, including This Means War with Reese Witherspoon and Seth MacFarlane’s Ted. Listen to Laura Vandervoort as she explains what we didn’t know about the torturous practices these animals and others go through to fill a fashion demand.

Check out PETA’s Cruelty-Free Clothing Guide to help you make compassionate shopping choices. Popular retailers such as Victoria’s Secret, H&M, Overstock.com, Cole Haan, and Nike have all signed PETA’s pledge never to sell exotic skins.

Want to show off your compassion in style? Enter HERE  to win this fabulous faux-snakeskin vegan handbag from Urban Expressions! The winners will be chosen at random and notified by November 21, 2011.

Read more of the story on PETA’s website…
Watch Joaquin Phoenix’s video on Exotic Skin Horrors…

This past weekend the Environmental Media Awards took place at Warner Brothers Studios in Burbank, California. The EMA’s  have evolved into a prestigious event, honoring individuals and organizations, as well as films, television productions and their creative teams that increase public awareness of environmental. At this event,  Justin Timberlake received the EMA Futures Awards. Other honorees included Marc Nathanson, the Producers Guild of America and SoCal Edison for their part in increasing public awareness of environmental issues.

Hosted by Emmanuelle Chriqui, Perrey Reeves and Constance Zimmer, the October 15th event also showcased film and television programs that have carried a positive, environmentally friendly message in the past season, such as The Good Wife, Real Time with Bill Maher, DisneyNature African Cats, hot in Cleveland, Futurama, Nurse Jackie, The Biggest Loser and The Bubble Guppies. A full list of EMA Award Nominees is available at www.ema-online.org.

Additional talent included Emily VanCamp, Nicole Richie, Joel Madden, Madeleine Stowe, Amy Smart, Aubrey Plaza, Kim Raver, Daryl Hannah, Matthew Rhys, Mehcad Brooks, Nick Offerman, Carter Oosterhouse, Wendie Malick, Jane Leeves, Valerie Bertinelli, Ed Begley Jr., Frances Fisher and more.

Since their inception in 1991, the 2011 EMA Awards are presented by Toyota and Lexus. Additional sponsors include: Brita FilterForGood, Earthbound Farm, entwine, KB Home, Mike Sullivan’s LAcarGUY Family of Dealers, Monterey Bay Aquarium, The Patron Spirits Co., Plant With Purpose, Scripps Networks, SodaStream, Southern California Edison, Star Waggons, Stila, Tiffany & Co., Ultimat Vodka, VeeV Açaí Spirit.

Go to http://www.ema-online.org/ for more info.

Helping Our Heroes, a non-profit community-based organization, is hosting a Catholic mass to bless and support troops who are heading to Afghanistan before the holiday season. Our Lady of Perpetual Help School will present the special mass to help prepare troops, veterans and family members before the deployment.

Additionally, five private Catholic schools are committing to help the troops while they are away. The five schools involved in this project are Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, St. Thomas, St. Jaamaes, St. Francis Desales, St. Hyacinth, and Notre Dame High School. Students and staff will commit to send care packages and messages to the troops to keep them in high spirits during the holidays.

Local businesses are also committing to help support the troops by pledging donations or shipping costs. Gift boxes will be sent in time for Christmas and again in the spring.

Date and time:

October 19th at 8 a.m., reception to follow in church hall

Location:

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

6686 Streeter Avenue
Riverside, CA 92504
(951) 689-2125

Tresor 18 K Gold Interchangeable Briolette Earring, Retail: $1625, www.TresorCollection.com

Le Vian 14 K Yellow Gold Flower Ring with Diamonds, Retail: $3647, www.LeVian.com

“Footloose” premieres this month. Writer/Director Craig Brewer delivers a new take of the beloved 1984 classic film. Ren McCormack (played by newcomer Kenny Wormald) is a transplant from Boston to the small southern town of Bomont. He didn’t realize he was about to experience a heavy dose of culture shock. An incedent a few years prior, rocked the community, when a tragic accident killed five teenagers after a night out and Bomont’s local councilmen. The beloved Reverend Shaw Moore (Dennis Quaid) responded by implementing ordinances that prohibit loud music and dancing. Not one to bow to the status quo, Ren challenges the ban, revitalizing the town and falling in love with the minister’s troubled daughter Ariel (Julianne Hough) in the process.

Photos courtesy of D’Orazio & Associates.

The illustrious Morgan Fairchild.

Secret Room Events hosted the Red Carpet style Lounge at the L’Ermatage Hotel in Los Angeles to honor the 63rd Primetime Emmy Awards. The event supported the Humane Society of the United States and got many celebrities and special guests involved with their efforts.

Celebrity guests at the Secret Room Emmy Style Lounge showed their support for the Humane Society of the United States by giving donations, and writing their choice of cause on a poster and having their picture taken with it, to show they are taking a stand against animal cruelty. Secret Room Events also donated two VIP gift bags to the Humane Society of the United states, that will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to the organization and their efforts. To learn more about the different project the Humane Society has to get involved with, please visit www.humanesociety.org.

The Humane Society of the United States benefited from the Secret Room Emmy Suite to help with their efforts to stop animal cruelty.

TV Personality Samantha Harris

To get their smiles to shine like their star for the Emmys, Whitening Lighting,  the premier teeth-whitening company that created the loved and adored Whitening Lightning Booster Pen, gifted stars and VIPs their fabulous teeth whitening kit, the “Dial A Smile Professional Whitening Kit“. Whitening Lighting simple works! It is a do-it-yourself, very simple way to get your teeth their whitest white. It comes with a Blue light, which assists the process, and gives you astonishing results!

Whitening Lightening gives professional results from home with their "Dial A Smile Professional Whitening Kit"

My Dream Bag Boutique, designed by Carrie Ella, is every purse lover’s dream come true. Carrie Ella has a collection ready-to-go if you are the instant gratification type of gal, or has s system set up to make your perfect bag come to life. First you choose your style, second, you get to pick from 100 Plush Italian made leathers and exotic skins, and third, you pick silver or gold embellishments to finish off your dream bag. It is that simple! Start creating your dream bag at www.mydreambagboutique.com.

Hollywood icon Penny Marshall

Loudmouth Golf is becoming the talked-about-town outfits for golfers. With wacky styles and bold colors, these suits and shirts are sure to catch the attention of any golf fan out there. John Daly has been the poster child for the Loudmouth brand, and has made it quite clear that “Some Guys Come to Play!” Along with golf, Loudmouth offers pants, women’s clothing and snow attire as well, which will all make a bright statement wherever you may take them. To see the many colors and stand out patterns to choose from visit www.loudmouthgolf.com.

Puma was gifting celebrities with favorite selected styles and new items from the brand. Puma is always a favorite among the stars, and has made themselves into one of the most sustainable sports lifestyle brands over the years. To see the latest styles and bright colors that are new to the line-up visit www.puma.com.

Bogace Jeans, which means “elegance or richness” brought their latest line to LA from New York to show the stars. Bogace is a new brand who has the every day woman in mind without their designs, and they make styles that are versatile for that reason. Bogace jeans are created so that they can be worn with a casual outfit, or dressed up with heela for a night out on the town. To see their latest designs that they were grifting the celebrities, with lined patterns and zig zig detail on the bottom, visit www.bogace.com.

Advanced Home Actives Brazilian Peel is the solution for chemical peels that we have all been waiting for. Mac Smith began studying chemical peels and quickly realized that chemical peels have to be done correctly to work at all, which many aren’t,  and that they must consist of a careful balance that will improve, not hurt the skin, which many do. Using his chemical engineer background, he created and developed the Brazilian Peel, an effective, safe, single-step glycolic acid facial treatment that has become a favorite among Hollywood and earned the Allure Best of Beauty Award in 2010. To order your Brazilian Peel treatment to try at home visit www.advancedhomeactives.com.

Advance Home Actives Brazilian Peel is the safe alternative to prevent aging.

Caribbean Living Magazine is a favorite among the stars, and offers the best advice on hot vacation spots and trendy getaways for all family types. Caribbean Living is filled with dining recommendations, excursion must-do’s, and beautiful sights that can not be missed. To order your yearly subscription, and see about your own tropical vacation in paradise, visit www.caribbeanlivingmagazine.com.

Basic Books Nutcracker not only tells the tale of the classic Christmas story, but also teaches children about the art of ballet through glossaries, pictures, and dance terminology. The story of the Nutcracker is beautifully illustrated and the story is brought to life in a whole new way with real-life pictures of ballerinas and interactive learning. To see the Nutcracker and more books that Basic Books has to offer, visit www.basicbooks.com.

Penny Marshall marvels at the Nutcracker gift set the celebrities were receiving.

Amaloa Fashion Jewelry creates one-of-a-kind jewelry that will make any outfit come together. Winning the Tiffany Jewelry Design Award at the Miami Fashion Week in 2009, Amaloa Fashion Jewelry has set themselves apart as the high-quality jewelry that gives fashion a good vibe. To see their latest pictures and collection visit www.amaloa.com.

Actress Lonni Anderson

Tahiti Legends help you personalize your vacation so that it is perfect for you, whether it be in New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, Cook Islands, Australia, Maldives, or Uae and Oman.  You can find the perfect place for your wedding, compare spas and services offered, search sought after excursions, or book private villas all on one site. Tahiti Legends also has a Trip Planner that you can utilize that will help you keep your days straight, whether you are traveling to multiple islands, or organizing excursions such as scuba diving. Visit www.tahitilegends.com to book your adventure now.

Think Thin was a smash hit with clebrities and special guests alike. Think Thin is a revolutionary way to help you loose wight, providing a different type of snack for four different times throughout your day. Specifically designed to satisfy your hunger in the morning for breakfast or before exercise, the thinkThin Protein bars are a perfect solution for a person on-the-go. The thinThin Bites make a perfectly portioned mid morning snack, and the thinkThin Crunch or the new thinkThin Fruit & Nut bars are a great alternative for that afternoon crave, that won’t spoil your dinner. With so many options to choose from , the thinkThin Natural Energy Bars make eating healthy simple and convenient. Visit www.thinkproducts.com to see all of the flavors and option they have to offer.

D’eonli Designs feature a large selection of jewelry, where you are sure to find exactly what you are looking for. D’eonli Designs carries necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, toe rings, Watch Winder, and Benchmark wedding bands. To view their collection visit www.deonli.bigcartel.com.

D'eonli Designs has a variety of jewelry to choose from online.

Clear Conscience Pet  is a new company founded in 2010 that creates healthy and tasty treats for cats, dogs, and ferrets. All products that Clear Conscience Pet uses are made in the U.S.A. and come from grass-fed, free-range, or organically fed sources. To read more about this new company and their mission in providing organic options for our pets, visit www.clearconsciencepet.com.

Gregory Mikaelian and Sons, Inc. jewelry, as seen on “The Price Is Right”, is a collaboration of exotic and elegant collections. Locatedin Los Angeles, they are considered a favorite local fine jewelry manufacturer. To see more about the company and to get directions visit www.gmjewelry.com.

Found Animals Foundation is the place to find all of your information about adopting a pet or finding a home for a stray. They supply information on pet adoption, pet care, pet spay and neuter, pet identification, and how to get involved with the cause. Visit www.foundanimals.org

Toby and Max Jewelry has something for every animal lover. Sandy Comstock, owner and designer of Toby and Max Jewelry, which was named after rescued pets, is inspired by making others feel goos. Her jewelry and products are ideal for gifting, which she takes great pride in as well, because she loves helping others share what they are feeling with someone they love and care about. To see more of this heartfelt brand visit www.tobyandmax.com.

Sandy Comstock, designer of Toby and Max Jewelry, is inspired by making people happy.

Jenny Clip is the device that allows every woman to go from heels to flats right after work, without having to change their pants. Jenny Clip is the fashion accessory that is stylish and oh-so-smart. Perfect for suit pants after a long day at the office, jeans after a long night out, or any other time you nee to make a quick change, without wanting to drag your heels about town. You can grab a pair at www.jennyclip.com.

Sweet Petunia Clothing is a brand that encompasses innocence and freedom in the most stylish way. Designs are complimented with patterns and colors that can be mixed and matched with items out of the same collection, or to add to something your little one already has at home. With head pieces starting at only $5.00, you can find a matching something for every outfit! Sweet Petunia Clothing has an extensive fall line, including a perfect Halloween sweater that can be customized with any name. Visit www.sweetpetuniaclothing.com to order.

Sweet Petunia Clothing offers stylish pieces for children that can be customized with any name.

Kiss Products, Inc. lets you bring the salon home! Kiss has been known for their amazing nail products, nail art, false eyelashes, and tools to help you apply your product. To see the new nail art designs and to locate a store that carries Kiss near you visit www.kissusa.com.

Fanny Wang Headphone Co. is famous for their balanced sound and state-of-the-art technology. Fanny Wang Headphones are known to be so versatile because they can withstand heavy base, which most headphone muffle out on, but are also  able to give the mid tones and highs their due, all while blocking out exterior sound. Fanny Wang was offering celebrities and special guests their Tri-Fold Design, which is essential for any jetsetter or busy-bee actor. The Tri-Fold design makes the headphones compact enough to fit in a small purse, but also offers a hard exterior to protect the inter of the headphones as well. You can read more about their expertly designed headphones at www.fannywang.com.

Fanny Wang Headphones offer excellent sound quality and unbeatable technology.

Paradiza Swimwear offers a variety of bright colors and textures that bring out the vixen in each of us. They are fit to make your body look its best and you can purchase one or two-piece sets that match your style. Visit www.Paradiza.com

Sasha Eillenna Pellow Jewelry was a hit among celebrities at the Secret Room Suite. Sasha began her jewelry making in 2001 in Whistler, B.C., and uses silver, gold, bronze, and earthy stones to create a romantic edge in pieces that tell her story. With bronze feathers and heart-shped clasps, Sasha Eillenna Pellow Jewelry make a delicate yet fearless statement. To read more about what inspires her warrior women jewelry visit www.sashapellow.com.

Sasha Eillenna Pellow Jewelry has a sense of soul in every piece of the collection.

The Brazilian Bella offers bodyslings, handbags, hipsters, byways and capes in various styles and fabrics. Vania Silva designs and makes all of the bags in different fabrics from all over the world, and just introduced her new heart-shaped bags. Carrying a Brazilian Bella bag is all about comfort mixed with elegance, and is a great statement piece for any outfit. To see the latest creations visit www.brazillianbella.com.

Brazillian Bella bags offer a chic and comfortable option for a handbag.

Lotty Dotty is a T-short line that has an entirely new take on switching the look of your T-shirt. The Lotty Dotty line uses 3-D detachable parts that you can change to “dress” your doll that is on your shirt. Ranging from sequin dresses for evening wear, to jeans and designer shirts for everyday use, Lotty Dotty T-shirts can be made to fit your occasion, and your mood. To see more of the outfits you can choose from, visit www.lottydotty.com.

Lotty Dotty T-shirts come with all different looks and styles so you can find your perfect match.

Included in the Secret Room gifting extraordinaire who received fabulous gifts and an amazing VIP gift baskets were Ed O’Neil (Modern Family), Betty White (Hot In Cleveland) Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation), Diane Lane (Cinema Verite), Steve Carell (The Office), Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie), Christina Hendricks (Mad Men), Jon Cryer (Two and a Half Men) and Sofia Vergara (Modern Family) Brandon Eaton (Dexter), Aubry Fisher (Inked), Tony Hale (Arrested Development), Samantha Harris (Entertainment Tonight),Eva La Rue (CSI Miami), Shanna Collins (Cinema Verite), Melissa Joan Hart (Melissa and Joey), Anthony Anderson (Transformers, The Departed) Ariel Winter (Modern Family), Betsy Brandt (Breaking Bad), Fiona Gubelmann (Wilfred), Carolyn Hennesy (General Hospital), Aaron Hill (Mad Men), Kelly Hu (Hawaii Five O), Keith Powell (30 Rock), Jason Ritter (Parenthood), Eric Martsolf (Days of Our Lives), Heather Morris (Glee),Pat O’Brien ( Fox Sports), Christina and Courtney Robinson (Dexter), Erin Sanders (Big Time Rush), Grant Show (Melrose Place), Serinda Swan (Breakout Kings), Vienna Giradri (The Bachelor), Aimee Teegarden (Friday Night Lights), Emmanuelle Vaugier (CSI Miami), Patrick J Adams (Suits), Preston Bailey (Dexter), Camila Banus (Days of Our Lives), Grant Bowler (True Blood), Lorraine Bracco (Sopranos), Creed Bratton (The Office), Chad Coleman (I Hate My Teenage Daughter),Olivia Crocicchia (Rescue Me), Audrey Emmons (Modern Family), Harvey Guillen (Huge), Brea Grant (Dexter), Bren Foster (Days of Our Lives), Willa Ford (Magic City), William Garson (Sex in the City), Sammi Hanratty (The Greening of Whitney Brown), Kelly Heyer (Raising Hope), Kym Johnson (Dancing With The Stars), Nick Cannon (Americas Got Talent), Emily Lind (Revenge), Beverly Mitchell, Caity Lotz (Death Valley), Benito Martinez (24), Callan McAuliffe (The Great Gatsby), Aedin Mincks (New Gir), Mathew Moy (2 Broke Girls), Ryan Ochoa (Pair Of Kings), Grace Phipps (Nine Lives of Chloe King), Erin Sanders (Big Time Rush), Brad Sherwood (Whose Line Is It Anyway) Antwon Tanner (One Tree Hill), Molly Tarlov (Awkward), Leon Thomas (Victorious), Travis Winfrey (Single Ladies), Camilla Luddington (William and Kate), producer/director Penny Marshall, Morgan Fairchild, Estella Warren, Tippi Hedren, Michael Madsen,Terrell Owens, Leslie Ann Warren and many more.

GBK, the luxury lifestyle gift lounge and special events company & Tic Tac® Mints held their annual Emmy Awards Gift Lounge at the W Hollywood Hotel. GBK is known for adding that extra special element that makes his gift lounges magical, and GBK’s 2011 Emmy Lounge exceeded all expectations. The beautiful backdrop of the W Hollywood was perfect for the grand gift lounge, as a red-carpeted spiraling staircase took you to the entrance of a plethora of heavenly suites, and unveiled the piece de resistance: the red carpet-inspired gown comprised 100% of limited edition Pink Grapefruit, Power Mint and Fresh Mint flavor Tic Tac® mints. The  inspiration behind GBK is providing charities an audience and support, and, as in their typical tradition, Tic Tac®  donated whopping $100,000 to CancerCare, an organization focused on supporting all people affected by cancer.

Camille Grammar and Tic Tac Gown

Support For Caregivers! Nominate Someone!

Tic Tac® is giving you the opportunity to honor extraordinary caregivers who have dedicated themselves to those affected by cancer!. Three extraordinary caregivers will each recieve 2500 dollars to use towards an extraordinary experience and the nominators of the 3 winning entries will each receive a 500 gift card. Caregiver nominations will be accepted from August 26th through October 3rd and consumer voting for the finalists will take place Nov. 1 through Novermber 11, all at www.facebook.com/tictacusa

GBK Emmy Gift Lounge Charities

As always GBK raises awareness and funds for charities at each gift suite they host. For this year’s Emmy Gift Lounge, The Art of Elysium, Teach for America, and A New Way of Life Reentry Project were featured.

The Art of Elysium encourages working actors, artists and musicians to voluntarily dedicate their time and talent to children who are battling serious medical conditions. We provide artistic workshops in the following disciplines: acting, art, comedy, fashion, music, radio, songwriting and creative writing. They will also be gifting The Book Just Like You by Robert Kroupa.  www.theartofelysium.org

Author Robert Kroupa and his anti-bullying book, "Just Like You".

Teach For America is the national corps of outstanding recent college graduates who commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools and become lifelong leaders in expanding educational opportunity. This fall, 9,300 corps members will be teaching in 43 regions across the country, while nearly 24,000 Teach For America alumni continue working from inside and outside the field of education for the fundamental changes necessary to ensure educational excellence and equity. www.teachforamerica.org

Teach For America offers leadership opportunities in education.

A New Way of Life Reentry Project is a non-profit organization in South Central Los Angeles with a core mission to help women and girls break the cycle of entrapment in the criminal justice system and lead healthy and satisfying lives. As a community advocate, A New Way of Life provides housing and reentry support for women and children, advocates for the human and civil rights of people in prison and people with past convictions, and builds leadership of formerly incarcerated women.

A New Way of Life founder, Susan Burton featured in Top 10 CNN Heros of 2010.

Simmons™ The ComforPedic Mystic Mattress:  Nominees and Presenters loved the ComforPedic Mystic mattress featuring NXG® Advanced Memory Foam.  The ComforPedic Mystic comes in either firm or plush, and features the most 5.5lb NXG® Advanced Memory Foam and Progressive Support Latex Foam. All foam is CertiPUR-US® Certified, and includes a 360° Gradient Edge® Support System, and each mattress has a 13.5″ profile height, to ensure your best night’s sleep. ComforPedic mattresses are covered with a stretch knit removable and dry suede cleanable cover, and they offer a 25-year limited warranty for every purchase. Along with the Mystic mattress that the celebrities were taking home other guests received the . You can see all the entire ComforPedic Collection at www.comforpedic.com

Young And The Restless' Kate Linder trying out the luxurious ComforPedic mattress.

Bond St Custom Clothiers (www.bondstcustomsuits.com)- Providing the high quality and luxury of bespoke, custom made suits, shirts, and tuxedos to clients worldwide for very competitive prices. Bond St is a premier online resource for all of your custom-fitted clothing needs and offer their unmatched expertise at competitive prices, no matter where you are located. Justin Lurie, founder of Bond St, wanted to create a company to give people the best value dollar-for-dollar, on clothing fit around them, using only the finest of fabrics. Lurie built his business for the shopper looking for quality, affordability, and their own ultimate style. Start your custom fitted item today. Pick out your colors, your choice of material, enter your sizes and in return you will receive the custom-made suit of your dreams,  at easy as that!

Bond St specializes in custom made clothing and ties.

Caribbean Living Magazine: Celebs were all a buzz when they received a one-week stay in the Caribbean compliments of Caribbean Living Magazine. To get great ideas on where to stay, fun family traveling ideas, and to view romantic getaway itineraries, visit  www.CaribbeanLivingMagazine.com

Melissa Joan Hart grabbing her issue of Caribbean Living magazine.

The Children’s Place was offering celebrities and special guests the opportunity to pick out their own stylish pieces online, with a $100 gift card. Guests also took home adorable beanies and headwear from their Winter 2011 collection, which features bright colors, cute characters, and fun designs.

The Children's Place

Children’s Place offers international shipping, and sizing from newborn up to kids 4-14. They have selections of shoes, pants, skirts, sweaters, dresses, headbands and hats, and holiday collections that are stylish, edgy, and ultimately fun for any kid to wear. Children’s Place also offers comfy and cozy basics, such as socks and onesies, which are the highest quality, yet surprisingly affordable. You can check out their latest styles at www.childrensplace.com

GREEN SMOKE, the Presenting Sponsor and host of the GBK Emmy “Green Room” featuring a selection of eco-friendly products, Green Smoke® gifted the Electronic Cigarette Starter Kit, a leading electronic cigarette manufacturer and the pioneer of the innovative 2-piece e-cigarette design, provides the most authentic smoking experience without smoke, ash, butts or odor. www.greensmoke.com

Beverly Mitchell with the Green Smoke Electronic Cigarette girls and US Army Officer Varn.

Another charity at the lounge was Soldier’s Angels – “May No Soldier Go Unloved”. Their Adopt A Soldier program provides aid & comfort to all deployed soldiers, especially our wounded. Many don’t have anyone sending mail or support. To adopt a soldier, you are asked to send 2 letters & 2 care packages a month. The support means everything to them. Sign up here: www.SoldiersAngels.org. Make all the difference for someone who is putting their life on the line for you!

Ugly Betty's and Gavin Kielly

Bread Basket Cake: Emmy Gift Lounge guests nibbled on Dark Chocolate Red Velvet Truffles by Bread Basket Cake. www.breadbasketcake.com

Bread Basket's EMMY cake was a show-stopper for guests attending the GBK suite.

Christine’s Gourmet Toffee:  Unbelievably delicious! They gifted an indulgent mix of Wisconsin Butter Candies including sea salt & chai caramels and bacon, coffee, pistachio, pecan and butter toffees and Belgian chocolate toffee bites, which got us addicted! This is an LA’s The Place THElist 2011 inductee!  www.christinestoffee.com

Christine's Gourmet Toffee creates perfect blends and flavors for any occasion.

DTLA Bikes: Living in a city with perpetual sunshine, gift certificates for custom-built steel frame fixed gear bikes from stylish DTLA Bikes were much appreciated by celebs.  www.dtlabikes.com

Ancestry: The world’s largest online family history resource gifted a one-year World Deluxe membership and will conduct on-site family history searches. Celebrities may be able to find information such as a photo of a distant relative, a passenger list from a ship with an ancestor or a relative’s War Draft Registration Card. www.ancestry.com

Ancestry.com offered a chance for celebrities to take a look into their past.

BLENDR, LLC: A social network to meet people in your area with common interests, provided custom-branded solar universal phone chargers to celebrities at the gift lounge and was this year’s host for GBK’s exclusive sneak peak Emmys Mixer Thursday evening. The Emmy Mixer was a night of hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and gifts to  showcase their new social media platform. www.blendr.com

The Knot Genie: A brush that is an amazing detangling tool designed to gently remove knots as well as the drama that comes with brushing unruly hair. www.knotgenie.com

"Fairly Legal"'s Michael Trucco with his Knot Genie.

Onsen Secret: Onsen gave its most powerful skin care revolutionary products derived from Japanese Hotsprings Minerals, such as, Nail Care Kit (Complete hand and nail care system), Pure A Peel (Skin Renewal Facial Peel), True Hydration (Skin Regenerating Facial Moisturizer), Milk Clarity (Hydrating Cleanser), Powder Technology (Active Enhancer), and Shichi Antioxidant Bath (Skin detox bath). www.onsensecret.com

CARITA: Celebrities skin will be all a glow after receiving CARITA’s legendary product, developed in 1956, Fluide de Beauté 14  – an ultra fine and silky dry oil that penetrates, leaving velvety smooth face, body and hair. www.caritadirect.com

Carita offered a scented dry oil for guests to take home and pamper themselves with.

EcofirstArt: Designer of the GBK “Green Room” featuring eco-friendly products, EcofirstArt provided Nominees and Presenters with a $1,000 gift card for the website and a choice of earrings, cufflinks, bracelets, paintings or bathrobes. Here’s to eco-savvy celebs! www.EcofirstArt.com

EcofirstArt supplied the furniture for the suite room as well, all made out of recycled products.

Exclusive Sedan: Gifted gift certificate for luxury car service – a much need service for LA’s car centric lifestyle. www.exclusivesedan.com

Gavin Keilly and Emmy winner Margo Martindale

Haan Therapeutics: GlyMed Plus Cell Science® DNA Reset Face & Neck Cream with Epidermal Growth Factors were graciously gifted. It contains the most advanced ingredients available to help restore skin to a youthful state and fight the DNA damage. www.haantherapeutics.com

Kurtz-Ahlers: Provided hotel stays at one the following stunning resorts: Imanta, Six Senses Con Dao, Six Senses Laamu, The Bristol, and The Bristol Buenaventura. www.kurtzahlers.com

James Woods picking his Kurtz-Ahlers destination getaway.

Margo Petitti: To get celebs ready for winter in Los Angeles, limited edition luxury scarves made from Italian cashmere, mink, silk and fine wool suiting were gifted; made in the USA. www.margopetitti.com

Reflect It Apparel: Apparel for exercise or everyday with messages of motivation & inspiration to lead a healthy lifestyle. www.reflectitapparel.com

Gavin Keilly with "Mike & Molly" actor Billy Gardell.

Piggy Pillows: Fabulous Fashion Insoles for Flip Flops, Sandals and Shoes. Created after the founder was slipping around in her flip flops from the lotion from a pedicure! They are many designs and patterns to choose from- who says comfort insoles can’t be stylish? www.PiggyPillows.com

Piggy Pillows make walking in flip flops after a lotion-packed pedicure easy and comfortable.

Beauty Foods: Gifting guests their first product – Nightly Beauty, the first beauty drink created to give you delicious sleep and gorgeous skin. www.beautyfoods.com

Gifting also include the children’s book Just Like You written by Robert Kroupa.

To find our more info about GBK Productions,

GBK, (formerly GBK Productions), is a luxury lifestyle gifting and special events company, specializing in entertainment marketing integration. Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Special Events, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. Widely known in the entertainment industry for bringing that little extra something into the Gifting Lounge environment, GBK offers its clients a full range of marketing services. For more information on Gavin B. Keilly (CEO), Carla Domen (VP) or GBK, please go to www.GBKproductions.com

Click here to read about GBK’s Academy Awards Gifting Lounge…

California Queen's Lis Bingham with Tara Conner, Miss USA 2006 and Hilary Cruz, Miss Teen USA 2007

Keep A Breast Foundation is a non-profit organization whose mission is to eradicate breast cancer by focusing on the education of young people. Keep A Breast provides information on prevention, early detection and support. They provide events, activities, and educational programs that are specifically designed to help inform our youth of healthy habits that will lead to a healthy life style.

Emmy Nominee Serinda Swan, with her "Imagine if there were no cancer..." sign.

Non-Toxic Revolution is a part of the Keep A Breast Foundation that is aimed to educate the effects of the over 80,000 chemicals that are licensed to use in the United States. Experts say only a small percentage of family history is attributed to getting breast cancer, the rest is attributed to lifestyle choices. Non-Toxic Revolution has a mission to educate the youth on what is being used, how harmful these substances can be, and what alternatives they have for a healthier and safer lifestyle. To learn more visit www.Keep-A-Breast.org and www.kabntr.org.

Double Talks by Bring It Up created quite the crowd following when they presented their new heart-shaped scented nipple covers. The nipple cover resemble the Valentine heart candy with messages such as “I Love You” and “Text Me”. www.bringitup.com.

Kate Linder with Double Talks by Bring It Up.

Bohemian Romance provided swag bags for the talent, and items such as watches, license plate covers, and bandeau tops filled them up quickly. Bohemian romance features beautifully painted and hand-crafted designs that make a statement wherever they go. You can see the designs that Susan Brown used on the Emmy bags on their Facebook page.

Jewelry4YourCar.com sparkled the room with their gem and crystal covered license plate covers. They offer team spirit license plate covers, motorcycle license plat covers, and custom license plate designs to choose from. Take a look and add a little “Car Candy” to the back of your car today. Designs are all different and can be found at www.Jewelry4YourCar.com.

Jewelry4YourCar.com offers bling for your license plate.

ISO Beauty was gifting special guests with mini straighteners in all different colors, great for young teens and traveling. ISO is known as one of the top beauty brands that provides products to give you style, but also to maintain the health of your hair. ISO Beauty believes that your hair is a part of your self expression, and now you can customize that expression even more with a custom colored device. You can purchase your own mini straightener in your favorite color at www.isobeauty.com.

Actor Patrick Kilpatrick came to lend his support. www.patrickkilpatrick.com

 O.N.E. Skincare can be used from head to toe for dehydrated, oily, or aging skin. O.N.E is the only organic olive oil moisturizer and comes in a 6 oz. self-locking bottle that is recyclable. The bonus to this product, is that the spray can also be used in your hair as an anti-frizz product. Visit www.one-skincare.com for more information.

Glam Rock Chic was gifting gift certificates for celebrities to go online and pick out their favorite pair. Their designs are edgy and and chic, but also have a sense of sophistication and a senability about them. The designer Sarah, has gone to great lengths to make her shoes as comfortable as possible, but still representing that red carpet flare. See there desings at www.glamrockchic.com.

Glam Rock Chic offers stylish shoes at affordable prices.

PixBox Photo Booth offer unique way for your guests to jump in the action of the party, and have something to take home with them to remember the event by. PixBox sets you up with a state-of-the-art photo booth and brings a plethora of props for your guests to pick from, which create quirky, individualized, and hilarious pictures that will be a treasured keepsake. To book your photo booth for your next birthday, work convention, or wedding, visit www.pixboxphotobooth.com.

STRUT is a company located in San Clemente, California that specializes in customized  and trendsetting jewelry collections, wheels, and accessories designed for connoisseurs of luxury automobiles. The handcrafted STRUT collections are sold through high end automotive boutiques and dealerships or you can find them at www.strutwear.com.

While visiting each vendor, celebrities got treated, literally, by the scrumptious Luscious Organic Desserts, which are made with all natural healthy ingredients, and have many options for vegans. Luscious offers vegan wedding cakes, cupcakes, and many special treats that are  so yummy you will forget they are made with all those all-natural ingredients that are actually good for you. Visit www.lusciousorganicdesserts.com to book your order today.

Luscious Organic Desserts offers deliscious vegan options for any occasion.

Healthy and Fit Forever is an organization built to motivate and encourage a healthy lifestyle. You can visit there Facebook page to see encouraging stories, get helpful advice, or just to link up with individuals who have the same drive and passion for living healthy. You can see recent posts and pictures here.

Pop Chips is the chip you definitely don’t have to be embarrassed to eat! Founder, Keith Belling, realized that there had to be a better alternative for snacking at lunch than the bags of chips he was embarrassed to order at the deli. Instead of the unhealthy frying, or not so delicious baking, Keith and co-founder Patrick Turpin discovered that by “popping” the chip with heat and pressure, they could use all natural ingredients to make a healthy, delicious snack.  Read more at www.popchips.com.

Epic Timepieces was also present providing more than a way to keep time for the special guests. Epic provides a chance to help children who do not have clean water available to them. With every purchase of a watch, Epic is able to provide clean water for children all over the world, especially in Africa. To learn more how you can donate or to order a watch visit www.epictimepieces.com.

Epic Watches gives back with every purchase, to help give children clean drinking water.

Bling Cases were gifting Nano iPod cover hat had a pink and black cheetah print all over. The cases are not only practical to protect against everyday wear and tear, but also make a statement every time you take it out. They snap on and off very easily and have covers from iPod2′s to headphones. You can visit www.blingcases.com.

Kai fragrance is part of the Kai mentality, that beauty lies in the simplest and purest things. Exotic aromas and natural essences bring this fragrance to life, and give it a kind of approachability for all who would like to wear it. Kai comes in recyclable packaging and never tests on animals. To read more about Kai and their mission visit www.kaifragrance.com.

Bonsoir Bella gifted California Queen special guests with fruit patterns bandeaus and metallic swimwear. The Bonsoir Bella line offers swimwear, lingerie, and one of a kind costumes for dancers and live theatre. Brandi Bee, the designer, is tremendously inspired by artists, dancers, and risk takers in general, and accepts custom orders, commissions, and well as wholesale inquires. Visit www.bonsoirbella.com for more information.

Bonsior Bella designer, Brandi Bee, next to her collection that the stars were loving.

Elemi Organics is the answer to finding 100% natural products at affordable prices. Elemi combines pure, therapeutic grade essential oils, combined with all natural ingredients to create aromatherapy that is balances, simple, and derived from nature. Aromatherapy stimulates circulation, while healing and relaxing the body. To find your scent of choice visit www.elemi.ca.

PixBox Photo Booth offer unique way for your guests to jump in the action of the party, and have something to take home with them to remember the event by. PixBox sets you up with a state-of-the-art photo booth and brings a plethora of props for your guests to pick from, which create quirky, individualized, and hilarious pictures that will be a treasured keepsake. To book your photo booth for your next birthday, work convention, or wedding, visit www.pixboxphotobooth.com.

Nutraluxe is a skin cleansing system that makes giving yourself a facila at home a snap. The Nutra Sonic Companion exfoliates your skin leaving cleaner, softer, and younger looking skin. To order your electronic Nutra Sonic Companion to stop the signs of aging visit www.nutraluxe.net

NutraSonic gives clean and refreshed skin, just like a spa facial at home.

Sun Coast Organics helped keep the energy up in the room by offering their new no calorie organic cuisine to the nominees. Sun Coast Organics is known for their excellent quality in food, impressive selections, as well as their involvement within their community. To see more about Sun Caost organics visit www.suncoastorganics.net.

Shocking Goat watches were a hit with men and women alike. Inspired by the goat being an underestimated animal, yet conquering enormously challenging cliff faces, the design team embodied the spirit of the goat, and created a product that stands for determination. Interchangeable faces and bright colors make this the perfect accessory for any outfit. www.shockinggoat.com.

Celebrities and special guests got a chance to try a new patent design eyelash extensions from LiquiFan Lash by Nova, which make eyes pop, on or off of the red carpet. You can read more about their product and entirely new way of lengthening your lashes at www.liquifan.com.

And after guest’s lashes were looking stunning, Bellacures was offering manicures to help the guests be camera ready to the big event.

Rumor the Las Vegas Boutique Resort presented the EMMY nominees a special complimentary night stay in Sin City. The celebrities can even brign along a pet to the party if they’d like! To see pictures of the newest Las Vegas Boutique Resort visit www.rumorvegas.com.

Dr.Tattoff specializes in tattoo removal and has been recognized as the laser tattoo removal experts. Dr. Tattoff also performs laser hair removal and is offereing a 20% discount off of full tattoo treatments this months. To book your appointment visit www.drtattoff.com.

All of the delicious food was washed down with Waialua Soda Works famous flavored soda. Waialua Soda Works  is known for their glass bottle soda ranging in fun flavors like Lilikoi, Pineapple, and the good old classic Root Beer.

Waialua is in the process of finishing their diet soda line, which everyone was happy to hear.

Lisa Jones and California Queens Lisa Bingham

California Queen delivered a memorable talent swag social, that hit close to home for all cancer affected celebrities and participants. Although the brands and gifts were lovely and exciting, this memorable event turned into something so much more. The main focus of special guests quickly shifted to motivating those who are battling cancer, their determination to find a cure, and inspiration to make a difference in the lives of those affected.

Lisa Bingham, the host of the California Queen Emmy gifting suite,  honored her aunt, Lisa Jones, in this event. Lisa Jones is an amazing woman, who is enduring her fourth round of breast cancer, but flew out from Florida for to be present at this special event, and to meet her niece, Lisa, for the first time. We all send our love and support and know you’re going to beat it again, Lisa!

Emmy Nominees and celebrity appearances included Serinda Swan (Tron, Breakout Kings), Dot Marie Jones (Hawthorne), Patrick Gallagher (Men of a Certain Age), Josh Sussman (Glee), Iqbal Theba (Glee), Jena Malone ( Sucker Punch), Cameron Monaghan (Shameless), David S. Lee (The Nine Lives of Chloe King), Barbara Alyn Woods, (One Tree Woods), Carl Payne (Martin), FIona Gubelmann (Wilfred), Patrick Killpatrick (Minority Report), Rachel Brooke (Bring It On), Christina Derosa (Extreme Movie), Tara Conner (Miss USA), Katie Blair ( Miss Teen USA), Joyful Drake (Let’s Stay Together), Whitney Mixter ( The Real L Word), Wes Ramsey ( The Playboy Club), Nadine Ellis (Let’s Stay Together), Emii, Freda Payne, Yogi Lonich, Jackie Tohn, Shiny Toy Guns, Samuel Larsen, Purple Melon, Daisy De La Hoya, Northern Sky, and CQ DJ Fear Factor Fredo of ESPN.

The 10k (6.2 mile) AIDS Walk Los Angeles route begins and ends in West Hollywood Park, and the crowd will take to the streets of West Hollywood and Los Angeles. Walk starts at 10 am, registration at 8:30 am on October 16, 2011.

Marking its 30th year since AIDS was first identified in the United States and for the 27th year that Los Angeles residents will again walk to end HIV/AIDS, 2011’s “I Walk” campaign is highly significant.

AIDS Walk Los Angeles is one of the biggest, most diverse, and highly anticipated annual events in Los Angeles. Last year, a passionate crowd of 30,000 walkers and 2,500 volunteers raised more than $2.8 million for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and advocacy programs. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $69 million to fight the disease in Los Angeles County, and the AIDS Walk movement has raised more than a half-billion nationwide.

Past Guests of AIDS Walk Los Angeles

Being a celebrity-centric city, the LA AIDS Walk has had these notable personalities attend in the past: Gillian Anderson, Sandra Bullock, Drew Carey, Jamie Lee Curtis, Willem Dafoe, Ted Danson, Peter Gallagher, Whoopi Goldberg, Kelsey Grammer, Bob Harper, Teri Hatcher, Felicity Huffman, David Hyde-Pierce, La Toya Jackson, Elton John, Ricki Lake, Nathan Lane, Angela Lansbury, John Lithgow, Madonna, Ann-Margaret, Mary-Louise Parker, Sarah Jessica Parker, Ryan Seacrest, Darryl Stephens and Maiara Walsh to name a few. Previous attending Los Angeles Mayors include Tom Bradley, James Kahn, and Antonio Villaraigosa.

About the APLA

As one of the largest non-profit AIDS service organizations in the United States, APLA provides bilingual direct services, prevention education, and leadership on HIV/AIDS-related policy and legislation. With more than 26 years of service, APLA is a community-based, volunteer-supported organization with local, national, and global reach. For more information, visit apla.org.

History of AIDS Walk Los Angeles

It was founded in 1985 by Craig R. Miller and his organization of activists – MZA Events. Miller is the AIDS Walk originator and has produced hundreds of public service campaigns and fundraising events, generating more than $359 million for major AIDS organizations throughout the country. For more information, please visit mzaevents.com.

Join LA’s The Place Magazine and many other passionate Angelenos in solidarity of curing HIV/AIDS on Sunday, October 16, 2011. For more information, to donate and/or to register, please call 213.201.WALK (9255) or visit aidswalk.net.

The GRAMMY nominated #1 DJ in the world, Paul Oakenfold, said he loves taking VITAFORCE to keep him healthy, especially when he’s on tour. Grant Show was excited to incorporate VITAFORCE into his health regimen as he looks better than ever.

Taking pride in his maintaining peak fitness and appearance, international soccer star Cobi Jones was excited about VITAFORCE, an all natural food based vitamin and mineral supplement. www.dynamicsofnature.com

Palmistry expert, Lisa Greenfield with Kelly Hu.

Palmistry expert, Lisa Greenfield, who has read over 10,000 hands, including the hands of Dustin Hoffman, Quentin Tarantino, Ron Livingston, John Stamos, world leaders and royalty, was onsite to share her gift with TrueHeart Events’ guests.  Lisa’s reading for actor Nestor Serrano (“24”) and his wife Debbie, showed that they are a match made in heaven.  Lisa said Nestor and Debbie have one of the most compatible hands for couples she has ever seen.  Nestor’s hand also showed that he’s one of the hardest working men in show business and has the staying power for a lifelong career, which makes sense considering he has been a successful working film, TV and stage actor for over 25 years.Lisa also read the beautiful Kelly Hu (“The Scorpion King”) and her hands showed that she has a magnetic charm that literally draws people and new projects to her as evidenced by her recent star turns in the TV shows “The Vampire Diaries” and “Hawaii Five-O.” www.truthinhand.com

In Hollywood, where looking good is not only an art form but a survival tool of the fittest, Trinity of Youth’s BRILLIANTFx beauty serum is the new secret weapon for sexy, youthful and glowing skin.

Hot Hollywood couple Nicole Ari Parker and Boris Kodjoe light up every red carpet they are on and both have flawless skin.  They were excited to learn that BRILLIANTFx is an anti-aging product for the body that they can use for shine perfection.  Samantha Harris, host of “Entertainment Tonight”, can’t wait to use BRILLIANTFx as part of her red carpet ready regimen during awards show season.

“Entourage” beauty Constance Zimmer said BRILLIANTFx was a product whose time has come since the market is flooded with skincare products for the face and she has never seen anything like Trinity of Youth’s beauty body serum before.  www.trinityofyouth.com

Bonnie Stern, co-creator of Sex Butter was on hand to debut her organic, chemical-free, hormone-free, paraben-free personal lubricant and enhancement.  Recording artist Ryan Cabrera said “Awesome, I’m going to use it tonight”, when gifted with a Sex Butter pillow pack.

Actor Reid Scott (“The Big C”) said that Sex Butter smells good enough to eat.

Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger and Sex Butter

Patti Stanger, the Millionaire Matchmaker, thought Sex Butter was a cool new product.  While Patti preaches no sex before monogamy on her hit TV show, perhaps she can start gifting Sex Butter to her successful matches once they hit her three-month relationship mark and are ready to take their relationships to the next level. www.sexbutter.net

Lauren Russell, designer and President at LYON Fine Jewelry was on hand to launch her “Equality Bracelet” at the event, which was gifted to celebrity guests in support and celebration of equal rights for the LGBT community.  Twenty percent of the proceeds from each Equality Bracelet will benefit the non-profit Friendfactor.

Guests couldn’t stop talking about how smoking hot the LYON Fine Jewelry campaign designed by Robb Friedman of Tumbleweed Advertising is.  With gorgeous straight and gay couples pictured and the slogan “We Are All Created Equal”, the Equality Bracelet was attracting tons of attention.

Lee DeWyze and LYON Fine Jewelry's Equality Bracelet

“American Idol” Season 9 winner Lee DeWyze came to the suite with his beautiful fiancé Jonna Walsh and was talking about their upcoming nuptials next year.  Since Lee has marriage on his mind, it is the perfect time to rock the Equality Bracelet in support of all of the gay couples around the country who don’t have the same right to marry.

Lee found the bracelet to be a very stylish and a cool way to support the cause, saying “This is the kind of jewelry that I like to wear.”

Ryan Devlin (“Brothers & Sisters”) said he is going to purchase an Equality Bracelet for his wife so they can both wear them and show their support for the campaign.  www.lyonfinejewelry.com/equality

Kathy Hilton was gifted a gorgeous necklace with a cross and pearl charm on it by jewelry designer Rafia Cooper. Kathy instantly fell in love with the piece. www.rafiajewelry.com

The Naked Grape treated guests to samples of their full line of delicious wines created by winemaker Hillary Stevens.  The Naked Grape wine collection includes a Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Moscato.

“I love it, I love the name, I love everything about it”, said Constance Zimmer from the HBO show “Entourage”, after enjoying the wine.

“Dexter” star Josh Cooke, and his wife singer-songwriter Eleisha Eagle, were looking forward to enjoying The Naked Grape’s Cabernet Sauvignon with a nice home cooked meal.

“American Idol” Season 9 Winner Lee DeWyze tweeted to his millions of fans later that night,“Discovered a new wine, Called “Naked Grape”.. the best. Good writing companion:) This song is a tough one though… Night all!”

Celebrity Guest List

Here are the celebrities that attended the Peninsula Beverly Hills gift suite: AnnaLynne McCord, Boris Kodjoe, Chris Massey, Cobi Jones, Constance Zimmer, Erik Palladino, Evan Ross, Geoff Reeves, Grant Show, Josh Cooke, Kate Linder, Kelly Hu, Kyle Massey,Lee DeWyze, Nestor Serrano, Nicole Ari Parker, Patti Stanger, Paul Oakenfold, Reid Scott, Robby Blackwell, Ryan Cabrera, Ryan Devlin, Samantha Harris, Sara Rue, Tim Daly, Valery Ortiz, Victor Alfieri, among others.

For more details, go here…

Elisabetta Canalis: I'd Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur

Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills. That is where you’d imagine the fur trade makes it’s biggest splash, and PETA has made a great strategic move, teaming up with beautiful Italin siren Elisabetta Canalis, to protest purchasing and wearing animal fur, in light of the fact that these animals are being treated in the most inhumane of ways.Shoppers and tourists alike on Rodeo Drive this week got an eyeful as top Italian TV host and actor Elisabetta Canalis previewed her “I’d Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur” fall campaign for PETA. Canalis—the first Italian to pose in the iconic campaign—has teamed with PETA to make a splash with ads and billboards this winter in the fashion capital of Milan, where many designers continue to use real fur.

“Don’t buy fur,” says Canalis, who will be seen this fall on TV’s Dancing With the Stars. “Even a little trim—your gloves or your bag or your jackets …. You must remember that animals don’t have a voice; you must be their voice. Never be afraid to speak up.”

Canalis joins a growing list of celebrities—including Charlize Theron, Pamela Anderson, Khloe Kardashian, Taraji P. Henson, Bethenny Frankel, Eva Mendes, and Lea Michele—who have starred in PETA’s anti-fur ad campaigns.

You can see the billboard on the corners of Rodeo Drive and Brighton Way, Beverly Hills.

There are beautiful options these days, to be able to wear faux fur, and not have it come from animals that have been tortured and maimed. It’s actually quite vogue to wear Faux Fur and vegan leather and many designers are creating amazingly authentic pieces. Do your part! Don’t support the inhumane treatment of gentle animals by buying and wearing fur.

Elisabetta Canalis: I'd Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur

Some of you may know Elisabetta as George Clooney’s recent girlfriend for the last two years.

NAVY SEAL Geoff Reeves

In honor of America’s heroes of 9/11, last Sunday, September 11, 2011, over 500 guests from Los Angeles and Orange Counties gathered at The City National Grove of Anaheim at the fourth annual Life Changing Lives – One Nation, One Heart Gala.Philanthropists and Life Changing Lives Gala founders Mindy and Glenn Stearns proclaimed on the red carpet, “Tonight is going to make everyone at the Gala so proud to be an American.”

Glenn & Mindy Stearns

Raising nearly one million dollars to benefit Wounded Warrior Project, The Joe Foss Institute, Pretend City Children’s Museum and Chapman Universityamong other education charities , Life Changing Lives’ event was a success.Kyle Massey, who finished 2nd on “Dancing with the Stars”, and his brother Chris Massey of Nickelodeon’s “Zoey 101”, along with the star of the Academy Award winning film “The Blind Side”, Quinton Aaron, Nestor Serrano of “24”, former Navy SEAL turned soap-star Geoff Reeves and Gold-medal world cup athlete Amy Purdy, and Dancing With The Stars Karina Smirnoff attended the Gala to show their support.

The Gala opened with a powerful video montage featuring quotes about courage, sacrifice, spirit and patriotism from Presidents Roosevelt, Bush, Reagan and Kennedy and ending with reflections on freedom from Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. A high-energy dance and acrobatics number performed by the Fortune Entertainment dancers to a medley of Americana songs followed. Mindy and Glenn Stearns thanked our nation’s firefighters, police officers, emergency workers, members of the armed forces and teachers for their endless and selfless service, before introducing Reverend Robert Schuller who invited guests to join in a moment of silence to honor the memory of all who were lost on September 11th, ten years ago.

Honorees General Lyon, Muhammad Ali and Ambassador Argyros

The All-American Boys Chorus performed a salute to the armed forces while our honored guests from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Marines all stood up throughout the ballroom to be recognized.

All American Boys Chorus

The Los Angeles County Fire Department Honor Guard presented our colors while Firefighter Paramedic Humberto Agurcia sang a beautiful rendition of the nation anthem. As Humberto sang the final verse, the bald eagle Challenger flew overhead as a majestic symbol of freedom.

The menu was designed by Iron Chef’s Cat Cora in collaboration with The Grove’s Chef Mikery Hatfield.

Chef Cat Cora presents her dish.

Karina Smirnoff and Dmitry Chaplin, from “Dancing with the Stars”, performed a moving piece entitled “A Tribute to American Heroes” to Tim McGraw’s hit  ‘If You Are Reading This” which they dedicated to the brave men and women who serve our country. Karina and Dmitry received a standing ovation for their beautiful Rumba about a soldier who writes his wife a letter to comfort her when he perishes in battle.

Dancing With The Stars Dmitry Chaplin & Karina Smirnoff

Master of Ceremonies and EMMY Award Winning journalist Roy Firestone introduced the video tribute to boxing champion and humanitarian Muhammad Ali. Roy spoke about his first out of over 5,000 interviews he has done in his career, which was the interview he did with Muhammad Ali in Miami Beach, Florida.

The Ali family

The crowd rose to their feet and began to cheer “Ali, Ali, Ali” as Muhammad Ali and his wife Lonnie took the stage. Lonnie praised her husband’s generosity, heart and spirit and spoke of the strides that both Muhammad Ali and Michael J. Fox have made in the quest for a cure for Parkinson’s Disease. Muhammad’s daughters Maryum and Hana Ali presented their father with his “Lifetime Achievement Award”.

Part of the “Black Hawk Down” mission, Retired Army Lieutenant General William G. delivered an important message about patriotism and the work that the Joe Foss Institute does sending veterans to speak with children in schools about their service to this country.

Marine Master Sergeant Paul Starner

Marine Master Sergeant Paul Starner shared his remarkable story of never giving up after losing one of his legs in combat and how Wounded Warrior Project was so supportive in his recovery. A favorite speaker at Life Changing Lives for the past three years, Army Sergeant Neil Duncan reported amazing news that as a double amputee, he recently made it to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro with two other wounded warriors. Both men received much deserved standing ovations of support.

Singing a rendition of U2′s “Beautiful Day” and his hit song “Sweet Serendipity”, “American Idol” Season 9 Winner Lee DeWyze lent his soulful voice to the night.

Major General William Lyon USAF (ret) was honored with the “Life Changing Lives Hero Award” presented by his proud son Bill Lyon. International platinum selling recording artists The Tenors took the stage to sing “Always There”, a moving ballad in English and Italian. The Tenors were joined by Lee DeWyze to sing Leonard Cohen’s haunting “Hallelujah”.

Ambassador George Argyros was the evening’s final honoree joined onstage by his wife Julia and his children George Jr., Stephanie, and Lisa Argyros who presented him with the “Life Changing Lives Hero Award.” The grand finale welcomed back Lee Dewyze and The Tenors to the stage, with special guests “American Idol” Season 5 Winner Taylor Hicks and “American Idol” finalist Michael Johns all singing a rousing rendition of The Beatles’ classic “With a Little Help From My Friends.” The encore featured “American Idols” Lee DeWyze, Taylor Hicks and Michael Johns singing “Credence Clearwater Revival’s “Proud Mary” with Taylor doing an fierce harmonica solo.

For more information about Life Changing Lives please visit www.4lcl.org

Army Sergeant Neil Duncan

About Wounded Warrior Project

WWP serves to raise awareness and enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women, to help severely injured service members aid and assist each other and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. For info, please call 877 TEAM WWP (832-6997) or visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

About The Joe Foss Institute

The Joe Foss Institute was created to work with youth in schools and youth groups across America—with those who will defend our freedoms in the future—encouraging & teaching democracy, patriotism, integrity, and public service. www.joefoss.com

About Pretend City

Pretend City is a community, which builds better brains through fun, whole body learning experiences and empowers children and their grown-ups to meaningfully connect with and expand their world. www.pretendcity.org

About Chapman Univerity

Chapman University, founded in 1861, is one of the oldest, most prestigious private universities in California. Chapman’s picturesque campus is located in the heart of Orange County – one of the nation’s most exciting centers of arts, business, science and technology – and draws outstanding students from across the United States and around the world. The university’s mission is to provide personalized education of distinction that leads to inquiring, ethical and productive lives as global citizens. www.chapman.edu

About LA County Fire Department Honor Guard

The Los Angeles County Fire Department Honor Guard’s mission is to serve as representatives of the Fire Department at formal occasions as directed by the Fire Chief. The Honor Guard is dedicated to honoring fallen firefighters, their families, and Department members, past and present, as well as assisting other agencies with funeral and memorial services.

Swagger co-founders and Air Force veterans, Matt Richter-Sand and Bobby Lady realize that many of their fellow veterans returning home from service overseas have difficulties adapting to civilian life.  Matt explains, “Adjusting to civilian life is hard for so many veterans, especially those who have deployed to the war-zone.  We’re trying to help LA’s 8,000+ homeless (11% of homeless veterans nation-wide) get their lives back.”

Bobby continues, “Vietnam Veterans were left behind, so we have a lot of catching up to do while a whole new generation returns from ongoing wars.  I was impressed with the breadth of services New Directions offers, and it’s up to us to support them.”

The Swagger Poker Showdown, a No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em Charity Poker Tournament will begin at 7:00 pm with professional instructors offering crash courses in Poker, professional Vegas dealers and tables, premium open bar, celebrity players and more.  Tickets are $99.00 to play and $79.00 to party.  Cocktail attire is recommended and to purchase tickets go to www.SWAGGERPOKER.com

Swagger’s Creed

Swagger’s mission is simple – to find the best of what Los Angeles has to offer and deliver it to you through their weekly newsletter and website.  They cut through the noise so you don’t have to, making it easy for you to plan your days and nights, and find what matters most.  www.SWAGGER.LA

About New Directions

New Directions is a local charity providing comprehensive services to veterans in Los Angeles County, including substance abuse treatment, counseling, job training and money management classes.  Veterans leave New Directions with a savings account, housing, a job or other income, computer skills, renewed self-confidence and the support of mentors and peers.  www.NEWDIRECTIONSINC.ORG

CARRERA Sunglasses hosted Perez Hilton’s “One Night in Los Angeles” at the Wiltern Theater last Saturday night that featured eight performances and raised over $10k for Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN). Celebrities like Demi Lovato, Gavin DeGraw, Pete Wentz, Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon among so many other celebs and fans enjoyed cocktails and live music. They also enjoyed gifts by CARRERA Sunglasses, Cut The Rope™, SOUL by Ludacris, popchips, and Asahi Beer.

Highlights of “One Night in LA”

Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick enjoyed a casual family fun night as they showed up to Saturday’s CARRERA Presents Perez Hilton’s “One Night in Los Angeles” just in time for a live performance by Gavin DeGraw.  As Gavin took the stage, the celebrity couple snuck in the back to the VIP section to enjoy the show with daughter Sosie and son Travis. After the performance, the family rushed backstage to meet the performer.

Still on the mend from his recent attack in New York, Gavin DeGraw spent a large portion of his evening answering questions about what had happened and how he was feeling.  When he first arrived at CARRERA Presents Perez Hilton’s “One Night in Los Angeles” Saturday night, he told friends that he was “alright” after spending the past couple weeks with bags of ice on his face.

While picking up a pair of CARRERA sunglasses and SOUL by Ludacris headphones in the VIP suite before his performance, Gavin ran into The All-American Rejects’ singer Tyson Ritter who was thrilled to see his fellow musician’s improved condition. After a rock star performance, Gavin was overheard backstage telling Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick that the attack was completely unexpected; as he said, “It was random.  It’s not like I was chatting with the debate team and looking for a fight.”  Needless to say, both his fan and fellow artists were all happy to see Gavin on stage again after his recent trauma.

Demi Lovato

As one of the surprise acts at Saturday’s CARRERA presents Perez Hilton’s “One Night In Los Angeles,” Demi Lovato had even tighter security than any other performer.  While hiding out in her private green room, Demi picked out two pairs of CARRERA sunglasses, signed a popchips guitar that will be donated to support GLSEN, and got a call from her dad who was excited to tell her that tickets for her performance that night had sold out in minutes.

At the CARRERA Presents Perez Hilton’s “One Night in Los Angeles,” Lisa Gastineau was overheard telling Linda Hogan and her fiancé Charlie Hill that the best part about Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries wedding was the music because they played everything from Pitbull to Frank Sinatra.  After posing for pictures with Cut The Rope mascot Om Nom, Lisa continued telling fellow guests about how Kim and Kris were made for each other and truly knew how to throw a great party. She was overheard saying, “Kris can handle Kim. He has a strong sense of self. He was designed for her.”

JoJo and A.J. McLean

As one of the headlining acts at CARRERA Presents Perez Hilton’s “One Night in Los Angeles,” JoJo and her band were among the first to arrive at the Wiltern Theater Saturday night.  After a quick sound check, the pop singer changed into a purple party dress to visit the VIP suite and pick out some stylish shades from CARRERA before heading to the red carpet where she ran into Backstreet Boy’s A.J. McLean.

On the red carpet, the two stars were overheard sharing their advice for those artists who are just getting into the industry – JoJo admitted that everyone seems to be “doing amazing on their own” and didn’t need her advice; A.J. said he’d tell them to “get a lawyer and stay true to yourself.”  Both JoJo and A.J. stopped to sign the popchips guitar for GLSEN while chatting about their tattoos – A.J. was surprised to hear about the state of Massachusetts tattooed on JoJo’s ribcage!  JoJo was quickly pulled away for an expedited costume change before meeting her band backstage to lead them in prayer before their performance.  After their bonding time on the red carpet, A.J. made sure to grab a spot stage-front for JoJo’s performance.

Photo Credit: WENN – Faye Sadou

Southern California foodies unite, 4 days, 3 locations, 9 events of unlimited food, wine and spirits! Los Angeles Times and Food & Wine’s THE TASTE debuts to top last year’s Los Angeles food festivals with chef celebrities galore, nine events across Los Angeles, cooking/cocktail demos, restaurant samplings, film screenings and DJs. Throughout Labor Day weekend, September 2-5, 2011, THE TASTE will feature celebrity gourmands such as Ludo Lefebvre, Michael Voltaggio, Roy Choi, Giada De Laurentiis, Scott Conant and Gabrielle Corcos.

“L.A. is primed for a food and wine event of this caliber–one that highlights the breadth of experiences available here, and rivals those in New York, South Beach, and Aspen,” said Anna Magzanyan, The Times’ VP Advertiser Marketing and Events.

With the success of last year’s Food & Wine “Taste of Beverly Hills” and LA Times’ “Celebrations of Food & Wine”, no doubt the Los Angeles Times and Food & Wine THE TASTE is a must-attend foodie event. This year, they have combined gastronomic forces in conjunction with Best Events to present THE TASTE, an incredible four-day epicurean celebration.

Magzanyan concurs with LATP’s thoughts on this event, “Combining The Times unmatched ability to bring all corners of Southern California together with this town’s passion for flavorful discovery is going to make THE TASTE an annual, must-not-miss.”

And no food event is complete without wine and spirits.  Southern Wine & Spirits of California will be the exclusive provider of THE TASTE’s wine and spirit tastings.

“Burgers & Beer” by Peroni and Eater LA and “Secrets from the Kitchen & Cellar” by Infiniti will kick-off THE TASTE’s events in Beverly Hills.The festivities continue in legendary Hollywood with “The Art of Mixing” and “Taco Tequila Tryst” featuring Roy Choi and sponsored by Hornitos, GMC and Buick.

Cocktail events are outfitted with the finest master mixologists, winemakers, sommeliers and distillers, paired with show-stopping cocktail performances and top DJs. On Sunday night in Downtown LA, historic Broadway will be transformed for an unforgettable evening of food and film with “Food Noir.”

And commencing on Labor Day, Giada De Laurentiis, will host “Picnic in the Hills” – surely to go down in this year’s history as the best picnic and BBQ in Beverly Hills.

In addition to title sponsor Food & Wine, sponsors include Southern Wine & Spirits of California, Infiniti, Belvedere, and Peroni. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $125 for a single event and $800 for all events. For 40% off, use promo code: WEB. Click HERE to purchase.

A portion of the ticket sales for Los Angeles Times and Food & Wine’s THE TASTE will benefit Collins College of Hospitality Management at Cal Poly Pomona, Share Our Strength, Los Angeles Times Family Fund’s Summer Camp Campaign, Beverly Hills Education Fund, and Los Angeles Conservancy.

For more information, including programming and event updates and tickets, please visit www.latimes.com/THETASTE and follow their live feeds at Facebook.com/LATimesEvents and Twitter: @LATimesEvents.

Read how the event went here!

Relax while you shop and enjoy custom cocktails, wine provided by The Naked Grape and gourmet treats provided by Los Angeles favorite restaurants Fig & Olive, and Doughboys… all while you shop for a cause. Guests will enjoy unparalleled access to luxury, health, beauty, fashion and lifestyle brands at a special discounted rate. A Portion of  the proceeds will go to www.stbernardproject.org

Below are just some of the brands that will be at the Urban Sanctuary event:

Nubar Cosmetics will showcase their fashion forward nail polish.  After your hands enjoy look like a million bucks, you can have them analyzed by Lisa Greenfield, the world’s leading Palmistry expert.  Lisa has read over 10,000 hands including the hands of Dustin Hoffman, Quentin Tarantino, Ron Livingston, John Stamos, world leaders and royalty.

For the fashionistas, Kid Dangerous and Corso will premiere their lines of Men’s and Women’s clothing and Capretta will showcase their couture line of Women’s fashion.

Since everyone knows that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, Jewelry by Rosalina will have you dripping in their custom diamond jewelry collection.  LYON Fine Jewelry will be launching their “Equality Bracelet” at the event in support and celebration of equal rights for the LGBT community.  20% of the proceeds from each Equality Bracelet will benefit the non-profit Friendfactor (www.friendfactor.org).

For our guests that want to look and feel beautiful inside and out, they can check out our premiere health, nutrition and fitness brands and experiences:

*Guests will enjoy the Think Thin snack bars in a variety of yummy flavors.
*Dynamics of Nature will be making delicious, nutritious VITAFORCE smoothies packed with 100% of your daily vitamins and minerals
*Trinity of Youth will feature their Brilliant Fx beauty serum for sexy, youthful and glowing skin
*MH3 Skincare will present their skincare collection infused with snake venom for optimal anti-aging benefits
*Men will enjoy the full line of EvolutionMAN Skincare products including shaving cream, body washes and lip balm.

There will even be items for your canine companions.  Celebrity green designer and animal advocate Kari Whitman will be onsite with her line of eco-friendly Greener Pup dog beds (100% of the proceeds go towards animal rescue).  Weizhi USA will showcase their line of luxury dog collars and will deck out doggie owners in their line of T-shirts and jeans.

Kyle Bunting Furniture will debut their custom home décor and Wooloot Sport will premiere their “Love is Louder” edition of headphones.

If you’d like, you can sign up to attend, you can do so by registering on their website:

http://www.urbansanctuaryevents.com/

The Urban Sanctuary
3pm-6pm September 6th, 7th and 8th
The Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills (the Magnolia and Gardenia Suites on the first floor)
9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills.

Koi Restaurant

Why East Africa?

Nick Haque, Chairman & CEO of Koi Restaurants, has been moved deeply by the devastating drought and recent declaration of famine in East Africa.  Doing their part to eliminate this ongoing crisis, Koi is debuting two new menu items that 50% of the sales when guests order them will go to the U.N. World Food Programme (wfp.org) relief efforts through Just A Little Foundation.

Two New Menu Items

Make sure you order these two new menu items at Koi Restaurant to do your part as well: the Edamame Dumplings, savory edamame-filled dumplings and fresh lobster served in a decadent mushroom-mirin broth ($18), and the Just A Little Shot, a fruit infused Sake featuring Pineapple, Watermelon, Honeydew and Cantaloupe ($4).  Both menu items were inspired by the fusion of flavors from across the globe.

Just A Little Helps ALOT

World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian agency fighting hunger and funded in part through voluntary donations such as those that will be raised by Koi though August 14, 2011.

Gahl Hodges Burt, one of the Directors at Just A Little and former Reagan White House Social Secretary, said, “I cannot remember the last time I watched the news and tears came to my eyes, as they have these last few days seeing the images of this crisis in Somalia.  Nick Haque and others are stepping forward to help the truly helpless.   We must all find our Just A Little so that combined, we can do A Lot.”

Seems like a bit of irony, but eat up at Koi in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and New York so others can too.

www.koirestaurant.com

Because get almost no exercise, numerous elephants used by Ringling Bros. suffer crippling arthritis — a leading cause of euthanasia for captive elephants.

The Ringling troupe opening in Los Angeles on July 20 has been besieged by controversy that revolves around critical reports from elephant experts and a citation from the federal government that the circus is in violation of the Animal Welfare Act.

“These animals should be allowed to live as nature intended—free from beatings, chains, and screaming crowds,” says Michaels, who recently visited Africa to see elephants in their natural habitat. “Their enslavement by the circus means they spend their lives in chains and stuffy train cars with no freedom to roam, and they suffer painful, fatal ailments that come from such a stressful existence.”

Ringling Bros. has come under increasing fire since a circus worker released compelling photos taken inside Ringling’s training center. The photos expose how baby elephants used by Ringling are stretched out, slammed to the ground, gouged with steel-tipped bullhooks, and shocked with electric prods. These abusive sessions go on for months in order to force the baby elephants to learn to perform circus tricks out of fear of punishment.

In addition to PETA, members of In Defense of Animals, Last Chance for Animals, and Animal Defenders International will protest Ringling’s stint at the Staples Center.

Where:   Outside the Staples Center (at the corners of Figueroa and 11th and 12th streets), Los Angeles

When:    Wednesday, July 20, 6 p.m.

For more information, please visit PETA’s website RinglingBeatsAnimals.com.

Seth MacFarlane

Perry, as she was known, was a lifelong animal lover and continuously rescused animals. Over the course of her life, she cared for all manner of wild and domestic animals – even ones that no one else would help. On the year anniversary of Perry’s death, Seth MacFarlane and Heaven on Earth Society for Animals announce the establishment of Perry’s Place – The Perry MacFarlane Sanctuary at Heaven on Earth.

According to Heaven on Earth Founder Eri Kriteman, “This gift will at last enable our organization to purchase our own sanctuary property. And there’s so much more we can do if we can put down roots.” What separates Heaven on Earth from other rescues is a commitment to cats that are often overlooked for adoption due to special needs.”

Heaven on Earth Board President Ritchie Geisel says, “MacFarlane’s generosity will not only allow us to purchase and build a new sanctuary and adoption center, it will allow us to continue our lifesaving work as Perry’s special legacy.” In order to do so, Heaven on Earth launches the Perry’s Place fundraising campaign.

Heaven on Earth is one of the only shelters in the Los Angeles area that specializes in cats with a lower potential for adoption, including those that are elderly, FIV+ and behaviorally or physically challenged.

The organization’s mission is to improve quality of life for homeless animals, especially those who are often overlooked because of special needs. Heaven on Earth Society for Animals, founded in 2000, operates a cage-free, no-kill sanctuary located in Van Nuys, CA.

The ESPY Awards honored some of the biggest sports stars and greatest athletic moments in 2011, in downtown Los Angeles at the Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE on Wednesday, June 24, 2011 . Seth Meyers hosted the 2011 ESPYs, co-presented by Capital One and Castrol EDGE, where the  the most memorable sports stories of the year were recognized and awards were given based on individual and team performance and achievements throughout the year.

Celebrity presenters for the 2011 ESPY’s included Jason Bateman (The Change-Up), Chris Berman, Justin Bieber,Emmanuelle Chriqui (Entourage), Brooklyn Decker (actress/model), Chris Evans (Captain America: The First Avenger), Cee Lo Green (musician/The Voice), Amber Heard (The Playboy Club), Jonah Hill (MoneyBall),Jimmie Johnson, Jay Leno, Kevin Love, Rachel Nichols (Conan the Barbarian), Danica Patrick, Ryan Reynolds (The Change-Up), Aaron Rodgers, Stuart Scott, Maria Sharpova, Amar’e Stoudemire, Tim Tebow,Justin Timberlake (Friends With Benefits), Kerry Washington (Scandal) and Serena Williams.

The 2011 ESPYs at Kodak Theatre L.A. LIVE

ESPN‘s commitment to the V Foundation for Cancer Research launched with the late Jim Valvano, and the ESPYs still honor that partnership which began at the inaugural ESPYs in 1993.

V Foundation for Cancer Reserach

A Complete List of  the 2011 ESPYs WINNERS

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SPECIAL AWARDS

ARTHUR ASHE COURAGE AWARD: Dewey Bozella

JIMMY V AWARD FOR PERSEVERANCE: Anthony Robles

BEST COMEBACK: Mark Herzlich

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BEST IN SPORT

BEST FEMALE ATHLETE: Lindsey Vonn, Olympic Skier

BEST MALE ATHLETE: Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks

BEST MOMENT: Roy Halladay postseason no-hitter

BEST TEAM: Dallas Mavericks

BEST COACH/MANAGER: Rick Carlisle, Dallas Mavericks

BEST GAME: Eagles vs. Giants

BEST CHAMPIONSHIP PERFORMANCE: Tim Thomas, Boston Bruins

BEST PLAY: Amy Wambach, Women’s World Cup goal

BEST UPSET: VCU NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament run

BEST BREAKTHROUGH ATHLETE: Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers

BEST RECORD-BREAKING PERFORMANCE: Rory McIlroy

BEST SPORTS MOVIE: The Fighter

BEST MALE COLLEGE ATHLETE: Jimmer Fredette, BYU Basketball

BEST FEMALE COLLEGE ATHLETE: Maya Moore, Connecticut Women’s Basketball

BEST FEMALE ATHLETE WITH A DISABILITY: Mallory Weggemann, swimming

BEST MALE ATHLETE WITH A DISABILITY: Anthony Robles, wrestling

"Best Male Athlete with a Disability" award presented by Jay Leno

INDIVIDUAL SPORTS

BEST MLB PLAYER: Roy Halladay, Philadelphia Phillies

BEST NBA PLAYER: Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks

BEST WNBA PLAYER: Diana Taurasi, Phoenix Mercury

BEST NFL PLAYER: Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

BEST NHL PLAYER: Tim Thomas, Boston Bruins

BEST MLS PLAYER: Landon Donovan, Los Angeles Galaxy

BEST MALE ACTION SPORT ATHLETE: Shaun White, Skateboarding/Snowboarding

BEST FEMALE ACTION SPORT ATHLETE: Stephanie Gilmore, surfing

BEST BOWLER: Jason Belmonte

BEST DRIVER: Jimmie Johnson

BEST FIGHTER: Manny Pacquiao

BEST MALE GOLFER: Rory McIlroy

BEST FEMALE GOLFER: Cristie Kerr

BEST JOCKEY: John Velazquez

BEST MALE TENNIS PLAYER: Rafael Nadal

BEST FEMALE TENNIS PLAYER: Serena Williams

BEST TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETE: Tyson Gay

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

SPONSORED AWARDS

CAPITAL ONE CUP: Stanford Women’s Athletics and Florida Men’s Athletics

CASTROL EDGE NFL STRONGEST PERFORMANCE AWARD: Arian Foster

Celebrities loved the Marco Polo designs; actress Deena Dill gets a helping hand from her beau.

Marco Polo designer jewelry is a company who brings generations of blown glass creations from Murano, Italy for the United States to enjoy. The owners of the company work with individual designers and families in Venice, who have been handcrafting blown glass beads for generations. Placed side-by-side with artificial glass, the brilliance is incomparable. The handcrafted designed earrings, necklaces, and bracelets come in a variety of colors, shapes and lengths and were definitely a favorite of the celebrity guests at this years event. Marco Polo designs was gifting any piece of the guest’s choice to take home, but most guests decided to wear them the second they got them. You can find your perfect piece to fit your style and personality at www.marcopolodesigns.com.

Actress Clark Gilmer and host Brittany Reimann adorned with Marco Polo jewelery.

Michael Marcus Cosmetics has an entirely different approach to makeup, using aloe instead of minerals such as lead, to create a flawless finish. Michael Marcus Cosmetics has an extensive line of makeup as well as nail polish and brushes, that are specifically designed for women over the age of 30 to help them look younger. Makeup with materials such as lead, have a tendency to attach to fine lines and wrinkles, actually making wrinkles appear worse, but Michael Marcus has developed a primer that diminishes fine lines and fills in pores to create a seamless finish. You can read all about the designer and the brand out of Texas at www.micaelmarcus.com or you can like them on Facebook to keep up with their latest products.

Michael Marcus with host Valerie Ortiz

Homanz is always a favorite among the stars, and was no exception for this Emmy celebration. Founded by Shirley Tsang, Homanz is a beautiful line of luxurious bags which encompass simplicity in a high fashion way, and never looses the classic styling and timeless value. Incorporating bright colors and unique accents, a Homanz bag is a delightful addition to any purse collection. Shirley Tsang was gifting a purse of choice to guests out of a variety of white and red and brown leather designs. You can see the styles the stars were taking home at www.homanz.com.

Designer Shirley Tsang with Homanz bags.

Lips to Love is an instant lip plumper with a whole new attitude. Lips to Love increases lips, using a lip wand with three different vibrating speeds, to make them look full and luscious. The instant plumper hydrates and softens as the vibrating wand stimulates your lips for maximum results. You can grab your gloss and start plumping at www.AminoGenesis.com.

Lips to Love Instant Lip Plumper.

Forma Sea Health was gifting their Super Sea Veg, which is the only food supplement that consists of a blend of 12 organic edible sea plants harvested from pristine ocean waters around the world. The benefits of Super Sea Veg will move your body toward homeostasis and balanced biological health. The supplement comes in capsule form and is used every day to help sped your metabolism and keep your cells moving in your body. You can see all of the benefits of Super Sea Veg at www.FarmaSea.com.

Beauty Care Choices provides shoppers with a variety of new and got-to-have-it haircare items such as the new Michael O’Rourke Rock Your Hair line, which features the SPRAY IT HARD Big Volume Hairspray that adds volume as it holds.  They feature an array of products for shoppers to combine and you can pick your favorites or make an appointment to go in and get primped at www.haircarechoices.com.

Beauty Care Choices offers a variety of haircare products.

Stephen Joseph was handing out monkey and turtle plush backpacks for the kids at home. The backpacks came equipped with a water bottle, wallet, pack of stickers, and a keychain that turns into a pen, all with the same designs and motif. The sets are the perfect entertainment station for kids whether they are on the beach, in a restaurant, flying in a plane, or sitting at home. You can grab your kit at www.stephenjosephinc.com.

Actress Isabella St. James with FloraGLO Lutein.

FloraGLO Lutein, sourced from marigold flowers, is the world’s leading patented purified lutein, and is used to help maintain healthy eyes and skin. Celebritites were gifted an information kit along with One A Day Women’s plus Healthy Skin Support multi-vitamin, multi-mineral supplements which include FloraGLO to help support smoothness, moisture, and elasticy of skin. You can find out more about the benefits of FlorGLO at www.floraglolutein.com and you can grab your own One A Day vitamins at www.oneaday.com.

Amy Martinson Fine Art Photography of Beverly Hills was a main sponsor at this year’s Style Lounge. She specializes in landscape photography of the Earth’s beautiful scenery, and her pictures can either be framed or hung as they are to make any wall an accent piece. Featuring her latest pictures from Bora Bora, Amy gifted 5×7 images of the sunset, ocean, and beautiful beaches. You can find her artwork at www.amymartinson.com.

Amy Martinson Fine Art Photography.

Coton Colors was gifting celebrities and special guests their popular polkadot “Happy Everything!” plate. A strip of velcro at the top of the plate hold different attachments and collectible pieces for every occasion such as champagne flutes, a birthday cake, and tennis racquets. You can view additional attachments like the moose, margarita, or baby girl designs at www.cotoncolorspottery.com.

EZ Curler has been seen on TV as the curler that makes precision curls easy. They were gifting the celebrities and special guests with an EZ Curler to take home and try in a lovely gift bag. You can grab one for yourself at www.EZCurler.com.

EZCurler at the Post-Emmy Daytime Awards Style Lounge.

Amber Sun sunless tanning products helped the stars glow.

Amber Sun was on hand helping the stars to get their perfect red carpet tan. Amber Sun was gifting a trio of their Pro-Long Color Extending Moisturizer, which creates color over time, their Instant Bronze Daily Cosmetic Bronzer, which instantly gives color but washes off at the end of the day, and their Self-tanning Lotion with Instant Bronzers, which sets for 4 hours and gives “just off the beach” tan for up to six days. You can buy a bottle to get your natural tan look today at www.NorvellSunless.com.

Tahizea jewelry collections feature the stunning light or dark Tahitian black pearls. Their unique designs combine the cultured pearls with silver, and differ with accent raw material, such as rubber or leather, depending on the collection. They offer necklaces, bracelets, earrings, rings, pendants, tie clips, and even cell phone jewels. Once the pearl is set, the style is polished, brushed to maintain a matte finish, then rhodium plated which protects and prolongs the life of your custom piece. You can see their collections and purchase the design that fits you best at www.tahizea.com.

Mother and daughter team up to gift their Tahizea jewelry.

Moonshined Designs, by designer Cate Rubenstien, is handcrafted fine jewelry with Old-World attention to detail and and nuanced design. Each handcrafted piece is made of the purest materials, and a portion of all proceeds goes directly to Marine Animal Rescue or Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The company creed of “Be Kind. Don’t Suck. Give Love. Be Loyal. Remember Time is Fleeting” has caught world-wide attention. The line is only ten months old, and sold exclusively in Europe at the moment, but you can shop online at www.moonshinedonline.com.

Moonshined Designs has gotten global attention from their creed.

The iHip brand was on site gifting the celebrities with a brand new pair of headphones that best suited their individual style. iHip has an extensive array of designs, so that each guest found one that made them smile. Designs ranged from Yankees to skulls, from skeletons to peace signs. the iHip headphones are known for keeping the wrong noise out, such as a crying baby on a plane, and keeping the right noise in and clear, which is of course, your music. Great for traveling or everyday use, and you can grab yours or a gift for someone special at www.ihipus.com.

iHip Headphones have a design to fit each personality.

Waialua Soda Works was gifting guests four packs of their glass bottle soda ranging in fun flavors like Lilikoi, Pineapple, and the good old classic Root Beer. Waialua is in the process of finishing their diet soda line, which everyone was happy to hear. Celebrities also kept hydrated with HINT Water and and snacked on Luna bars throughout the day.

The Style Lounge benefitted the African Millennium Foundation, which is the official charity for Red Carpet Events LA. The AMF  is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that targets poverty, hunger, and disease in Africa at its root by providing the tools for women and children to achieve self-sufficiency. The AMF is committed to the social and economic empowerment of people in Africa, with an emphasis on the women. You can learn how to get involved or make a donation to their efforts at www.1amf.org.

African Millennium Foundation is the official charity organization of Red Carpet Events LA.

G-Vo, who was born in war-torn Sri Lanka, engineers his theatrical productions to bring attention to global causes. This year, he has partnered with A Remnant Remains , a nonprofit that will invite concertgoers to donate funds to bring sustainable water and electricity to an impoverished community of garbage collectors in Egypt, which has suffered major floods in addition to the country’s recent political instability. In 2009, G-Vo’s second album release concert raised $25,000 for the International Medical Health Organization (IMHO) to bring healthcare to displaced refugees in Sri Lanka’s conflict-ridden refugee camps. The IMHO website reported, “The crowd was genuinely moved by the performance and the significance of this event in bringing people together to help those in need.”

For more information about G-Vo, please visit www.johnbaptistrecords.com.