Tag Archives: GBK

Stefano Langone’s New Song Yes to Life

Stefano Langone talks to us about his support for Stand Up For Cancer

Stefano Langone talks to us about  his support for cancer research Plus we look at stefano’s new video Yes to Life and my favorite I’m on a Roll
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fT-LqkaqM6g]

I caught Stefano Langone at the GBK Celebrity Gifting Suite for the American Music Awards. Stefano was a wonderful interview, mainly because I forgot to turn on RECORD for our interview and though he was really busy, he re-recorded the whole interview for me.

I received a tweet from Stefano to update my story cause my story was getting old. So here you go Stefano. I do not have an updated interview, but I do have the new video of Yes to Love to share with everyone. If you get a chance also listen to On a Roll. I really like that one.

Stefano talks about his support of the environment and cancer research especially Stand Up 2 Cancer which is a great organization. – JW

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Stefano LangoneStefano Langone

From Wikipedia

Langone was born on February 27, 1989 in Bellevue, Washington to Carrie and Ernie Langone.[1] He is half Spanish and half Italian.[2] His father works as a career advisor at The Art Institute of Seattle and is also a singer and musician.[1][3] Langone has been singing and playing the piano since childhood. He attended Emerald Park Elementary School, Meridian Junior High, and Kentwood High School, as well as Bellevue College, where he was given a full ride scholarship.[4] He performed with Bellevue College’s ‘Celebration!’ vocal jazz ensemble while he was a student there.[5]

On May 28, 2009, he was involved in a near-fatal accident after being hit by a drunk driver.[6] The accident resulted in two broken arms, a fractured pelvis, and other serious injuries. In addition, Langone had to re-learn to walk and has extensive scarring as a result of the accident.[7]

Post Idol

Following his elimination, Langone appeared on several talk shows. He appeared on Live with Regis and Kelly on April 25, 2011, as well as The Today Show on April 26, 2011. In addition, Langone appeared on The Rachael Ray Show along with Paul McDonald and Pia Toscano on May 25, 2011.[10]

The following summer, Langone toured with the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2011, which began in West Valley City, Utah on July 6, 2011 and ended in Manila, Philippines on September 21, 2011.

On September 24, 2011, Langone sang the National Anthem at the Western Hockey League game opener between the Seattle Thunderbirds and Portland Winterhawks. On September 26, 2011, Langone and James Durbin appeared on Dr. Drew‘s “Lifechangers” TV Talk show.

As of October 9, 2011, Langone has officially moved to Los Angeles to begin a music career. Langone is currently being managed by 19 Entertainment.[11]

While recording for his upcoming debut album, Langone has performed at several events. On October 15, 2011, Langone performed at Eva Longoria’s Charity Padres El Cancer in Las Vegas.[12] On November 24, 2011, Langone performed at the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade. On December 4, 2011, Langone performed at Trevor Live, an event benefiting The Trevor Project.

album stefano yes to loveStefano’s New Song

button amazon buy from 02button buy from itunesYes To Love

Check out Stefano’s newest song on Amazon or Itunes or go to Vevo to watch the video or…..

logo stand up to cancer su2cStand Up To Cancer

Since our launch in 2008, we’ve been amazed by the outpouring of generosity and hope from the ever-growing SU2C community. You’ve shared your stories. You’ve launched stars in honor of loved ones. You’ve sent letters to Congress. You’ve spread the word to friends and family. You joined us for our second, commercial-free telecast on September 10, 2010 and, most importantly, pledged over $80 million to accelerate ground-breaking research and bring new treatments to patients as quickly as possible.

We’ve all come together — from patients to clinicians, from advocates to lawmakers, from children to teenagers to parents and parents of parents — in support of one cause: finding a cure for cancer. We can’t thank you enough for making Stand Up To Cancer what it is today. This is where the end of cancer begins

To learn more about the people behind SU2C, visit the links below.

  • Co-Founders
  • Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF)
  • SU2C Team
  • Why We’re Different
  • The Science

 

 

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

GBK Presents a Luxury Gift Lounge Honoring The Nominees Presenters of the 2014 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS at the L’Ermitage Beverly Hills

GBK PRODUCTIONS AND PILOT PEN KICKED OFF GOLDEN GLOBES AWARD WEEKEND WITH A GLAMOROUS LUXURY GIFT LOUNGE IN HONOR OF THE 2014 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS NOMINEES AND PRESENTERS

January 10th and 11th – Beverly Hills

The Lounge Featured a Wide Range of Luxury Products and Welcomed Guests on Nominated Shows/ Movies Such as: Sally Hawkins (Nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture), Helene Yorke (Masters of Sex), Jim O’Heir (Parks and Recreation), Lesley Nicol (Downton Abbey), Martha Plimpton (The Good Wife), RJ Mitte (Breaking Bad), Shea Wigham (Wolf of Wall Street, American Hustle), Terry Crews (Brooklyn Nine-Nine), Kelsey Scott (12 Years a Slave), Elsie Fisher (Despicable Me 2) and Many More

Los Angeles (January 11, 2014) – GBK, the luxury lifestyle gift lounge and special events company, and Pilot Pen hosted a stunning pool-side celebration honoring the Nominees and Presenters of one of Hollywood’s most glamorous award shows – The 2014 Golden Globe Awards. The event took place on the rooftop of the L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills, a true first-class celebrity destination. Guests were pampered with gifts from participating lifestyle sponsors and enjoyed music by celebrity DJ, DJ Don P, and food from the event’s many gourmet sponsors.

Fred Williard

Among the luxury and must-have lifestyle brands including gifts from Title Sponsor, Pilot Pen. Pilot Pen offers superlative writing instruments renowned for quality, performance, cutting-edge technology and consumer satisfaction. Award Nominees and Presenters received an assortment of their fine writing instruments including the Black Matte Vanishing Point, the Pilot MR Metropolitan Collection Silver Ballpoint Pen, and the FriXion Clicker Erasable Gel Ink 8 Pack Pouch.

Other great gifts include some unique luxury items like premium bedding toppers from Presenting Sponsor, airweave. airweave is the number one super-premium bedding topper in Japan and is celebrating its launch in the United States in January of 2014. Lavish destinations have become a signature GBK Lounge gift, and this year the celebrities received certificates from some of the most luxurious destinations like The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, gifting a destination package to include 3 nights in a Deluxe Overwater Villa, daily breakfast and 20% discount to Miri Miri Spa by Clarins and Caribbean Living Magazine / Hard Rock Hotels, International, who gifted an all-inclusive trip to the Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana.

Beauty products that are both deluxe and functional filled the lounge including gifts from Tweezerman, Sleep-In Rollers, hair rollers that are designed to flatten like a sponge; Minerva Research Labs, gifting Pure GOLD COLLAGEN®; a variety of eyelash, brown and skin products from The Crave Collection; Burke Williams Spa; Regeneca WorldWide, gifting their RegeneBlend antioxidant beverage blend; and Barbar Hair Tools.

A true highlight of any GBK lounge is the incredibly diverse and trendy fashion and accessory products. This year’s event featured products from Fiamma Jewelry, Threaded Creations, Luminita, gifting Leather / Beads Bracelet magnetic clasp; jewelry from Made By Survivors; Coordinates Collection, gifting their Gold Legend Bracelet; The Artisan Group®, gifting the celebrities and members of the press a lovely collection of trendy jewelry, spa and bath products, fine art photography, and other handcrafted gifts; SPANX by Sara Blakely; cross body ipad covers and other accessories from Rolf Bleu™ by Caryn Sterling; and gifts from Planet.ECO.

Gourmet sweets and treats were sampled and gifted at the event from Kyra’s Bake Shop featuring delicious treats that are gluten free; Yoplait Greek; Bulgarini Gelato; Rollin’ Rib BBQ, bringing their slow cooked smoked BBQ flavor to attending guests; Sabra, the leader in refrigerated dips and spreads; SAAS Hot Sauce; and V Wine, gifting select Wine Club Membership to their tasting room with wine from over 22 California boutique wineries. Other food and beverage delicacies include Brownie Brittle, COMBOS Baked Snacks, Marathon Bars, Matt’s Munchies, Pasta Chips, popchips, and VitaCoco.

Kelsey Scott – 12 Years a Slave

Technology and unique finds included FLUXMOB, who was onsite gifting their BOLT – the world’s smallest battery pack and wall charger combination; Sir Ike Audio, gifting luxury Bluetooth Audio headsets; Shutterball, the remote shutter enabling the ultimate hands-free “selfie” with a smartphone; BLOW HOOKAH, a revolutionary electronic hookah; 100candles.com; The Love Architects, gifting an autographed copy of “Real Love, Right Now” and 1 hour of Love Whispering; EmergencyLink, an emergency ID network, donating $100 to The American Red Cross for each new celebrity member; and Global Women’s Empowerment Network, a non-profit organization transforming lives beyond abuse.

Charity beneficiaries included:

GUARDaHEART Foundation, a non-profit foundation dedicated to raising awareness of heart disease prevention by spreading the word to guard your heart and save your life. For more information, please visit www.guardaheart.org

Holly Robinson Pete

Lambda Legal – Lambda Legal has been making the case for equality on behalf of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and those with HIV across the nation for 40 years. Their impact strategy combines groundbreaking work in the courts with innovative education and policy advocacy to change the hearts and minds of the public — and to teach people how to make sure that LGBT civil rights are respected. Lambda Legal’s mission is to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and those with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy advocacy and their work is an integral part of the continuing struggle for civil rights in America. For more information, please visit www.lambdalegal.org

For more photos [CLICK HERE]

GBK

GBKABOUT GBK:

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.

GBK Luxury Gift Lounge a Big Success Honoring the Nominees and Presenters of the 2013 Emmy® Awards

GBK GBK Blends Gifting with Charitable Giving at Their Annual Luxury Gift Lounge Honoring the Nominees and Presenters of the 2013 Emmy® Awards

September 20th and 21st – W Hollywood Hotel
GBK’s lounge was attended by celebrities from over 10 nominated shows including Host of the Primetime Emmy® Awards, Neil Patrick Harris, and Nominees Ed O’Neill (
“Modern Family”), Harry Hamlin (“Mad Men”), Linda Cardellini (“Mad Men”), Tony Hale (“Veep”), Travis Wall “So You Think You Can Dance”, Chris Noth (“The Good Wife”), Lesley Nicol (“Downton Abbey”), Gleb Savchenko (“Dancing With The Stars”), Jackson Pace (“Homeland”), Karina Smirnoff (“Dancing With The Stars”), Lori Greiner (“Shark Tank”), Mary Murphy “So You Think You Can Dance”, Matt Walsh (“Veep”), Reid Scott (“Veep”), RJ Mitte (“Breaking Bad”), Sufe Bradshaw (“Veep”), Timothy Simons (“Veep”). Other fantastic guests attended, including Alfre Woodard (“Copper”), Matt LeBlanc “Episodes”, Dennis Quaid (“Vegas”), Jason Isaacs (“Case Histories”), Joe Morton (“Scandal”), Regina King (“Southland”), Rumer Willis (“Return to Sender”), Camille Grammer (“Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”), Dania Ramirez (“Devious Maids”), John Benjamin Hickey (“The Big C Hereafter”), Jose Pablo Cantillo (“Walking Dead”), Meghan Ory (“Once Upon A Time”), AJ Buckley (“CSI: NY”), Nico Tortorella (“The Following”), Steven Bauer (“Ray Donavan”), Terry O’Quinn (“Falling Skies”), Willie Garson (“White Collar”), Yvette Nicole Brown (“Community”), and many more! Continue reading

GBK to Host The 4th Annual “Big Fighters, Big Cause” Charity Fight Night to benefit the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation

GBK

B. Riley & Co. and The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation Present “Big Fighters, Big Cause” 4th Annual Charity Fight Night 

Los Angeles – B. Riley & Co. and The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation present The 4th Annual “Big Fighters, Big Cause” Charity Fight Night to benefit The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation in its support for Juvenile Diabetes Research and The Wounded Warrior Project. This prestigious invitation-only Red Carpet event will take place at The Santa Monica Pier on May 21, 2013.
Tommy Davidson will be the Master of Ceremony for the evening, which will feature a Professional Boxing fight card commissioned by the California State Athletic Commission. Songstress Franchesca Robi (daughter of The Platters’ Paul Robi) will sing the National Anthem to ring in the fights. The fight card will consist of four professional bouts.

****Last Year’s Event Recap Video:

The event anticipates a targeted audience of over 1000 guests, comprised of C-suite executives from nearly 200 public companies across a range of sectors, leading institutional investors, high net worth individuals, financial services professionals, celebrities, sports legends, and other high-profile individuals.

Zota Pop, a Top 40s band comprised of world-class musicians, will provide musical entertainment along with DJ BABY CHINO, the 10-year-old DJ phenomenon who has been seen on Nickelodeon’s hit show “Figure It Out”.

Rusnak, Maserati, BMW and Porsche, part of the Rusnak Auto Group is proud to support the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation. Sugar Ray Leonard will honor Medtronic, Inc. by presenting an Award in the ring for its work in Juvenile Diabetes with the Insulin Pump. The Hauser Insurance Group is also a proud supporter of the cause. The evening will be set against a rich environment for both charitable and business development opportunities.

The lovely ladies from Crown Diva Boutique & Pageant Academy will sell raffle tickets throughout the evening, benefitting the cause. Guests will have the opportunity to win spectacular prizes. A true highlight of the evening will be the Charitable Live Auction. Item Sparkling Hill Resort, a European-inspired wellness resort known as the first resort in the world to incorporate Swarovski crystal elements into every aspect of its design, stands out. The winner of this Live Auction Item will receive a gift certificate for a 5 night Couples Escape in a stunning penthouse suite, with access to a wide range of wellness treatments featured at the resort’s world-renowned Kurspa – a 40,000 square foot spa providing over 100 treatments and therapies.

Guests will enjoy an abundance of delicious food and beverages. Legends Beer will offer its premium craft beer in the Legends 100% recyclable aluminum bottle. Legends believes that consumers can have both great beer, and interesting content with the same package.

Other fantastic beverages available to guests are Asombroso TequilaMonster Energy DrinkHansenSneaky Pete’s BeverageTito’s Handmade Vodka, and Weaver’s Coffee & Tea. More delectable food sponsors include: Beachy CreamSheila G’s The Original Brownie Brittle CompanyGarden of Eating CateringGood Greek GrubJalisco’s Mobile Taco GrillMonsoon CaféRollin’ Rib BBQSabra Dipping Co.SUSHI POPPER, and Sweet Insanity Bake Shop.

logo sugar ray leonard foundation shThe Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation

Was launched by boxing legend and six-time world champion Sugar Ray Leonard to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research. The mission of The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation (SRLF) is to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research. After watching his father struggle with Diabetes and its complications for years, Ray is very passionate about finding a cure for Juvenile Diabetes. Ray is also very passionate about empowering wounded warriors dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder and other lasting effects of combat. Part of the proceeds from this event will be going to the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). For more information about the Foundation and their cause, please visit: SugarRayLeonard.com

B Riley CoB. Riley & Co.

A leading full-service investment bank, provides a full array of corporate finance, research, sales, trading and otcqx dad services to corporate, institutional and high net worth clients. Headquartered in Los Angeles, with offices in San Francisco, New York, Newport Beach, Boston and Atlanta, the firm is recognized for its distinguished Equity Research. Their investment banking services include merger and acquisitions advisory to public and private companies, initial and secondary public offerings, and institutional private placements. Engaged by both companies and investors, their Corporate Governance Advisory Services Group helps maximize value for shareholders. Founded in 1997, the firm began by successfully targeting small-capitalization California-based companies and has won a reputation for providing proprietary, unbiased and often contrarian equity research coverage of companies that are under-followed or misunderstood by Wall Street. For more information, please visit www.brileyco.com

***Last Year’s Event Recap Video: http://youtu.be/0ibKa82m300 

GBKABOUT GBK:

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.

GBK BRINGS CHARITY AND CELEBRITY GIFTING TOGETHER FOR THEIR ANNUAL GIFT LOUNGE DURING THE 2013 MTV MOVIE AWARDS WEEKEND

GBK

GBK BRINGS CHARITY AND CELEBRITY GIFTING TOGETHER FOR THEIR ANNUAL GIFT LOUNGE DURING THE 2013 MTV MOVIE AWARDS WEEKEND

Andy Dick and Sean Love at GBK MTV Movie Award Gift Suite

Andy Dick and Sean Love at GBK MTV Movie Award Gift Suite

Some of the Celebrity Attendees Included: MTV Movie Awards Best Musical Moment Winners: “Pitch Perfect” cast members – Ester Dean, Alexis Knapp and Hana Mae Lee, Jared Gilman from “Moonrise Kingdom” (Nominated for Best Kiss), Quvenzhane Wallis from “Beasts of the Southern Wild” (Nominated for Breakthrough Performance), George Lopez, Ray Liotta, Andy Dick (“Dancing with the Stars”), Tamara Barney (“The Real Housewives of OC”), JWOWW, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino, and many more.

GBK Gift Suite ProductsLos Angeles GBK, (gbkproductions.com) – the luxury lifestyle gift lounge and special events company, will honor the 2013 MTV Movie Awards Nominees and Presenters with its Annual Gift Lounge on April 12th and 13th at the W Hollywood Hotel. GBK, the recipient of multiple BizBash’s Award for “Best Gift Bag,” offered its exclusive list of invited celebrities, VIPs, and Media an opportunity to enjoy the traditional gift lounge environment while learning about the event’s great causes.

The esteemed charitable causes at the event included The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation – The mission is to raise funds for research and awareness towards a cure for Juvenile diabetes.

George Lopez Foundation

George Lopez

Lopez Foundation – The charity’s mission is to create positive, permanent change for underprivileged children, adults and military families confronting challenges in education and health, as well as increasing community awareness about kidney disease and organ donation.

My Life My Power – a 501©3 Charity which works with kids, parents and schools around the nation with issues like bullying, drugs and alcohol, and dropouts. Steps4Paws – Steps4Paws is bringing the fashion world forward to support dog rescue organizations, saving lives one dog at a time.

Lambda Legal – For 40 years, Lambda Legal has led the fight for equal and fair treatment of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and those with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.

Dorothy Hamill GuardaHeart at GBK Event

Dorothy Hamill GuardaHeart at GBK Event

GUARDaHEART Foundation, a non-profit foundation dedicated to raising awareness of heart disease prevention by spreading the word to guard your heart and save your life, was on site offering complimentary cardiac risk blood tests and to promote their savethe1.org campaign.

Aviir, Jason Ritter and with Gavin Keilly awards check to Guard a Heart Foundation

In honor of his father John Ritter, celebrity guest Jason Ritter made a special appearance on the 10 year anniversary since his passing due to heart disease to co-present a check with Aviir for $100,000 to the Foundation.

KuKuRuZa Gourmet Popcorn provided a delicious specialty popcorn bar and music from DJ BABYCHINO, the world’s youngest DJ, flowed throughout the rooms of the lounge setting the tone for the event. Guests collected gifts and visited many great sponsors including the event’s Presenting Sponsor Viva Diva Wines, one of the fastest growing Moscato brands in the U.S., who was gifting a bottle of their Pinot Grigio or flavored Moscato; Sky’s Gourmet Tacos; Sabra Dipping Company; Cookie Connection; Jade and Jasper; gifting their Fabulous Phyliss Necklace or their Enchanting Riona Necklace; Infinite Jewelry Designs; The Headware®, gifting The Headware® and LoopScarf TM – multi functional accessories made of stretchable, tubular and breathable material allowing for a myriad of uses; bigtruck brand, INC, gifting incredible custom bigtruck brand hats; Respect Your Universe, gifting the men an organic cotton Warrior Training Hoody and the women with a 100% polyester vented Endurance Jacket; and BlingIsTheNewBlack.com, gifting Crystal Bling Tees, Tanks, Bags and Bling Your Sole.

Beauty sponsors made their mark on the lounge, including luxury brands such as: Designer Skin, gifting high-end UV and sunless tanning lotions; Keratin Complex; BARBAR Hair Tools, and imPRESS Press On Manicure by Broadway Nails who also provided manicure services for the event’s special guests.

Viva Diva

Other fantastic sponsors and gifts included: Caribbean Living, gifting an all inclusive trip for 2 to the newest Hard Rock resorts in the tropics – Puerto Vallarta & Cancun; Empress Essentials, gifting their luxurious, hand-poured, pure soy candles; SOL REPUBLIC, Inc. , the pioneer of customizable headphones; Jada Toys, Inc.; 2K, providing a cross selection of the largest, most critically acclaimed titles in the video game industry; SKLZ, gifting the Gold Flex warm-up and tempo training aid – which is designed to improve your swing while providing a core muscle workout; and YES! Beat Liver Tumors, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information, resources, support and HOPE to those who are affected by cancer of the liver and other forms of advanced cancer – gifting Amazon Kindles pre-loaded with life-saving information for those who are affected by liver tumors.

A true highlight of the lounge was Sparkling Hill Resort, a European-inspired wellness resort known as the first resort in the world to incorporate Swarovski crystal elements into every aspect of its design. Guests received a gift certificate for a 5 night Couples Escape in a stunning penthouse suite, with access to a wide range of wellness treatments featured at the resort’s world-renowned Kurspa – a 40,000 square foot spa providing over 100 treatments and therapies.

For more information about Guard A Heart, please visit: guardaheart.org
For more information about My Life My Power, please visit: mylifemypower.org
For more information about Steps4Paws, please visit: steps4paws.com
For more information about Lopez Foundation, please visit: thelopezfoundation.org
For more information about The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation, please visit: SugarRayLeonard.com
For more information about Lambda Legal, please visit: LambdaLegal.org
For more information about YES! Beat Liver Tumors, please visit: BeatLiverTumors.org

For celebrity pictures, click here: (http://www.carellaugustus.com/GBKMovieAwards/)

ABOUT GBK:

GBK

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.

GBK HOSTED A LUXURY GIFT LOUNGE HONORING THE NOMINEES & PRESENTERS OF THE 2013 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS

GBK

GBK HOSTED A LUXURY GIFT LOUNGE HONORING THE NOMINEES & PRESENTERS OF THE 2013 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS
January 11th and 12th – L’Ermitage Beverly Hills

Celebrity Attendees Included: Thandie Newton (Good Deeds / Mission Impossible), Archie Panjabi (Nominated Best Supporting Actress – The Good Wife), Sara Rue (Malibu Country), Jeff Daniels (Nominated Best Actor – The Newsroom), Alison Pill (The Newsroom), Anthony Anderson (Guys with Kids), Madeline Zima (Vampire Diaries), Ol Parker (Nominated Writer – The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel), Joshua Malina (Scandal), Mayim Bialik (The Big Bang Theory), Bellamy Young (Scandal), Jesse Williams (Grey’s Anatomy), and many more.
Photobucket Continue reading

GBK PRESENTS A LUXURY GIFT LOUNGE HONORING THE NOMINEES & PRESENTERS OF THE 2013 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS January 11th and 12th – L’Ermitage Beverly Hills

GBK

GBK PRESENTS A LUXURY GIFT LOUNGE HONORING THE NOMINEES & PRESENTERS OF THE 2013 GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS

To date GBK has received RSVP’s from numerous celebrities including: Betsy Brandt (AMC’s Breaking Bad), Katie Lowes (ABC’s Scandal), Eric Dane (ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy), Gemma Arterton (Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters), Mayim Bialik (CBS’ Big Bang Theory), Lauren Bowles (HBO’s True Blood) and many more.

January 11th and 12th – L’Ermitage Beverly Hills Featuring Luxury Gifts and a Glamorous, Golden Pool-side Celebration Continue reading

Yoplait Greek 100 Yogurt Supports DreamCenter at GBK for the Emmys

Yoplait Greek 100 Yogurt Supports the Los Angeles DreamCenter at GBK Gifting Suites for the 2012 Emmys

Yoplait Greek 100 Yogurt helped The Los Angeles DreamCenter introduce their services that help the needy in Los Angeles to the celebrities at the GBK Gift Suites for the 2012 Emmys
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jaMbsVmpwgs]

The Los Angeles DreamCenter set up a booth along with Yoplait Greek Yogurt 100 calorie, to introduce their services to many of the Emmy celebrities.

I got a chance to speak with Yoplait Greek 100 Yogurt representative Ahsley Herendeen and Danny Slavens of Dream Center about the incredible work DreamCenter does for L.A.

Yoplait is helping the DreamCenter by giving a donation of $100 for each signature they got from Emmy Suite celebrities on a giant blow-up Greek 100 container. Yoplait believes that their affiliation with Dream Center is a great match since the DreamCenter feeds over 50,000 families a month.

Thank you to DreamCenter, Yoplait Yogurt and GBK Productions for everything they are doing to help the needy in Los Angeles. – JW

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Yoplait greek 100 Yogurt

“New Greek 100 is everything you adore about Greek yogurt with 100 calories. It’s just one more way Yoplait helps you discover the SO good in everything.”

What is Greek Yogurt? It is usually a more dense yogurt with more butterfat and more protein.

Yoplait has cut the fat and doubled the protein (10 grams) to make this a 100 calorie great tasting alternative to traditional Greek Yogurt.

For more information and to check out the different flavors go to the:

Yoplait Greek 100 Yogurt Product Site

Yoplait Company

Yoplait believes Goodness is better than badness. And SO goodness is better than just plain goodness.

Yoplait is striving for so goodness. In themselves, the yogurts they make and in the way they behave.

Ultimately, we’re focused on making so good yogurt, and here’s how we see it: you can eat something that tastes amazing but isn’t that good for you. You can eat stuff that’s really good for you, but doesn’t always leave you yummed up. So good yogurt does both. All of you is happy, not just your tongue. And while so goodness will never be perfect, we’ll keep working on ways to make our yogurt more so good than it is today.

We also support causes that you care about. Like fighting breast cancer. We’re thinking we should do this in an even bigger way. We’re figuring that out and want your input.

People say life is really about the little moments of so goodness. There are big moments – we all know what those are – but since they don’t happen as often, we’ll stay focused on doing our part with the little moments. – Yoplait

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DreamCenter

Pastor Matthew Barnett assumed the pastorate of Bethel Temple in 1994 at the age of twenty. After a life-changing encounter with God, he helped Bethel Temple transition from a traditional-style church to a servant driven ministry that grew into what is now known as The Dream Center.

Compelled by a vision to impact all of Los Angeles by addressing people’s physical and spiritual needs in unique and practical ways, The Dream Center has grown into a phenomenon that now reaches more than 40,000 people each week through its multiple church services and various need-centered outreach ministries.

Pastor Matthew is also the senior pastor of the historic Angelus Temple, which combined forces with The Dream Center in 2001 in a historic unification of flagship ministries from two different denominations (Foursquare and Assemblies of God).

ABC 7 News Video on DreamCenter [CLICK HERE TO WATCH]

The mission is to directly impact the issues that afflict Los Angeles communities by reconnecting isolated people to God and a community of support by providing free human services that address immediate and long-term needs in the areas of homelessness, hunger relief, medical care, mental health and education.

The vision is a community of resilient people whose lives have been redeemed by God’s love, who share that love with others to transform and restore broken lives to wholeness.

The DreamCenter Center

The Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart founded Queen of Angels Hospital in 1926. Father Wilhelm Berger, founder of the Franciscan Sisters, defined their ministries as ‘works of neighborly love’. With the establishment of the hospital, the sisters accepted the challenge to serve the poor, the sick, and the aging of Los Angeles for more than a half-century before closing their doors due to financial issues.

The growth of Los Angeles’ population throughout the mid-1920’s and into the 1940’s was directly reflected in the steady rise in admissions, births and patient day care at the hospital. This warranted major expansion projects to the facility in 1938 and 1945. The expanded 360,000 square foot campus now housed nine buildings and covered over eight acres. The distinction as the largest teaching hospital west of the Mississippi soon followed.

Despite enduring The Great Depression and World War II, the healing center fell victim to financial troubles in the early 1980′s, forcing a merger with neighboring Hollywood Clara Barton Memorial Hospital. The newer medical facility, located just three miles away, was renamed Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center in 1989, at which time the fabled Queen of Angels Hospital in Echo Park closed its doors.

The site was mostly vacant but for a handful of loyal Franciscan Sisters that undertook caretaking duties. The property was also a popular location for commercial, film, music video and television productions.

The owner of the facility rejected lucrative offers from major entertainment companies in favor of Pastors Tommy and Matthew Barnett’s vision to convert the facility into a ‘spiritual healing center’, but the $10 million dollar asking price was still out of their range. Prayer and negotiations brought the asking price down to $3.9 million dollars and ‘The Church That Never Sleeps’ established its new home in 1996.

For More Information

www.DREAMCENTER.org
2301 Bellevue Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90026-4017

Main Line: 213.273.7000
Pastor Matthew’s Office: 213.273.7030
Pastor Matthew’s Email: pastorsoffice@dreamcenter.org
Donor Relations: 213.273.7100

@LADreamCenter

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

GBK Productions is one of the best ways to showcase and promote your products or services. Click on the GBK logo for more information.

DreamCenter Helping the Needy in Los Angeles at GBK Gift Suite for the Emmys

DreamCenter Los Angeles Promotes to Emmy Celebrities at the GBK Gift Suites

The Los Angeles DreamCenter introduced their services that help the needy in Los Angeles to the celebrities at the GBK Gift Suites for the 2012 Emmys
[youtube=www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAHOKzYIAtc]

GBK Productions is well know for as one of the premiere gifting suites for many of the best known awards shows.

The Los Angeles DreamCenter set up a booth along with Yoplait Greek Yogurt 100 calorie, to introduce their services to many of the Emmy celebrities.

I got a chance to speak with Kaci Davis about the incredible work DreamCenter does for L.A. Thank you to DreamCenter, Yoplait Yogurt and GBK Productions for everything they are doing to help the needy in Los Angeles. – JW

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DreamCenter

Pastor Matthew Barnett assumed the pastorate of Bethel Temple in 1994 at the age of twenty. After a life-changing encounter with God, he helped Bethel Temple transition from a traditional-style church to a servant driven ministry that grew into what is now known as The Dream Center.

Compelled by a vision to impact all of Los Angeles by addressing people’s physical and spiritual needs in unique and practical ways, The Dream Center has grown into a phenomenon that now reaches more than 40,000 people each week through its multiple church services and various need-centered outreach ministries.

Pastor Matthew is also the senior pastor of the historic Angelus Temple, which combined forces with The Dream Center in 2001 in a historic unification of flagship ministries from two different denominations (Foursquare and Assemblies of God).

ABC 7 News Video on DreamCenter [CLICK HERE TO WATCH]

The mission is to directly impact the issues that afflict Los Angeles communities by reconnecting isolated people to God and a community of support by providing free human services that address immediate and long-term needs in the areas of homelessness, hunger relief, medical care, mental health and education.

The vision is a community of resilient people whose lives have been redeemed by God’s love, who share that love with others to transform and restore broken lives to wholeness.

The DreamCenter Center

The Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart founded Queen of Angels Hospital in 1926. Father Wilhelm Berger, founder of the Franciscan Sisters, defined their ministries as ‘works of neighborly love’. With the establishment of the hospital, the sisters accepted the challenge to serve the poor, the sick, and the aging of Los Angeles for more than a half-century before closing their doors due to financial issues.

The growth of Los Angeles’ population throughout the mid-1920’s and into the 1940’s was directly reflected in the steady rise in admissions, births and patient day care at the hospital. This warranted major expansion projects to the facility in 1938 and 1945. The expanded 360,000 square foot campus now housed nine buildings and covered over eight acres. The distinction as the largest teaching hospital west of the Mississippi soon followed.

Despite enduring The Great Depression and World War II, the healing center fell victim to financial troubles in the early 1980′s, forcing a merger with neighboring Hollywood Clara Barton Memorial Hospital. The newer medical facility, located just three miles away, was renamed Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center in 1989, at which time the fabled Queen of Angels Hospital in Echo Park closed its doors.

The site was mostly vacant but for a handful of loyal Franciscan Sisters that undertook caretaking duties. The property was also a popular location for commercial, film, music video and television productions.

The owner of the facility rejected lucrative offers from major entertainment companies in favor of Pastors Tommy and Matthew Barnett’s vision to convert the facility into a ‘spiritual healing center’, but the $10 million dollar asking price was still out of their range. Prayer and negotiations brought the asking price down to $3.9 million dollars and ‘The Church That Never Sleeps’ established its new home in 1996.

For More Information

www.DREAMCENTER.org
2301 Bellevue Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90026-4017

Main Line: 213.273.7000
Pastor Matthew’s Office: 213.273.7030
Pastor Matthew’s Email: pastorsoffice@dreamcenter.org
Donor Relations: 213.273.7100

@LADreamCenter

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

GBK Productions is one of the best ways to showcase and promote your products or services. Click on the GBK logo for more information.

Jorg Gray American Watch Makers at GBK Gift Suite for the Emmys

jorg grayJorg Gray American Watches “Changing the Way You See Time”

Jorg Gray Watches, The Fastest Growing Watch Company,  showed their unique timepieces at the GBK Gift Suites for the 2012 Emmys
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOBNySC5SVg]

An American watch company with a European sounding name, but they are all American. One of their watches (Model JG6500), given as a gift, is worn by President Elect Barack Obama.

I got the chance to speak with Mark Gurdus, the VP of International sales for Jorg Gray (pronounced Your Gray), about their their beautiful and wonderfully unique timepieces, which are worn by many celebrities and clients that enjoy wearing quality timepieces. 

These watches are well made with casual, sports and luxury designs for all tastes and almost all are water resistant to over 300ft. These are good watches and run from around $250 to $1000 Their signature watch is the JG6500, but don’t forget to check out the Limited Edition watches…Very Nice!

I had a real great time with Mark and he allowed me to feel presidential for one minute as I got to wear the model Obama wears for the interview. Thanks Mark – JW

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Jorg Gray

Founded in 1998, Jorg Gray has expanded from an American specialty private-label watch company to a worldwide brand.

Revered for its fashionable timepieces, Jorg Gray continues to create modern, yet timeless, watches while maintaining a respect for traditional principles of precision and attention to detail.

The brand’s visually striking, boldly designed watches combine styling, materials and colors that appeal to today’s discerning customer.

For More Information

Ashley Ennis
Barokas Public Relations for Jorg Gray
jorggray@barokas.com
+1 206.264.8220

www.JorgGray.com
www.FaceBook.com/JorgGray
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

GBK Productions is one of the best ways to showcase and promote your products or services. Click on the GBK logo for more information.

Nat Faxon of Ben and Kate Supports Surfrider Foundation

Nat Faxon of Ben and Kate and Oscar winner for co-writing “The Decendents” Supports The Surfrider Foundation

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hez_0E7KcFI]

If you don’t know Nat Faxon you soon will. He will be starring in the new comedy series on Fox Ben and Kate. Nat has also been in countless commercial great commercials and some of my favorite movies like Beerfest, Bad Teacher, Zookeeper and Walk Hard – The Dewey Cox Story

Nat has also been seen on many of my favorite shows like Reno 911, My Name is Earl and many others.

This interview is from the first of the year so Nat had not won his Oscar yet. This is one of those, I wish I knew what I was talking about interviews. I had no clue that Nat was the co-screenwriter on The Decendents movie and it is obviouse. Sorry Nat… It was great to see him win the Oscar as I have seen him at a few events and he is always very nice. Thanks Nat. – JW

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Nat Faxon (c) JW NajarianNat Faxon

From Wikipedia

Faxon’s early years started in the seaside community of Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts. Faxon is a graduate of Brookwood School(Manchester-by-the sea, Massachusetts), Holderness School, and Hamilton College. As an actor, he is best known for his appearances in comedic films such as Orange County (2002), Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story (2007), and several Broken Lizard films including Beerfest (2006). He co-starred in Darren Star‘s semi-autobiographical satire Grosse Pointe and had recurring roles in several television series such as The Cleveland Show, Joey, Up All Night and Reno 911!. He was also featured in a series of prominent Holiday Inn commercials featuring Joe Buck as well as an ad by Blockbuster.

Faxon is an alumnus of the Los Angeles-based improvisational and sketch comedy troupe The Groundlings.

Faxon and writing partner Jim Rash, whom he met while performing at The Groundlings, most recently co-wrote the screenplay for the film The Descendants, starring George Clooney and directed by Alexander Payne. On February 26, 2012, the screenplay for The Descendants won an Oscar.

He will star in the lead role on the upcoming FOX comedy Ben and Kate.

From TvGuide

  • Started a sketch-improv group called Bobby Peru while in college.
  • Worked in the main company at the Groundlings improv theater in Los Angeles for nearly a decade.
  • Pitched a variety of products in commercials for Swiffer Duster, Saturn, State Farm, Heineken, TiVo and Holiday Inn (for which he appeared with broadcaster Joe Buck in several spots).
  • Considered his role as evil German Rolf in 2006’s Beerfest as one of his favorites.
  • Married Meaghan Gadd, daughter of well-known drummer Steve Gadd, whose tours are titled Mission From Gadd.
  • Voiced characters on The Cleveland Show and American Dad! before landing a lead voice role on Allen Gregory in the fall of 2011.
  • Cowrote (with Jim Rash) the adapted screenplay for The Descendants (2011), starring George Clooney.

Nat Faxon Relationships:

  • Meaghan Gadd – Wife
  • Ruth James Faxon – Daughter

Nat Faxon Awards:

  • 2012 Golden Globe: Best Screenplay – Motion Picture – Nominee
  • 2011 Oscar: Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay) – Winner (with Jim Rash)
  • 2011 BAFTA Awards: Best Adapted Screenplay – Nominee
  • College:
  • Hamilton College, Clinton, NY (BA in Theater, 1997)

Ben and Kate

SERIES PREMIERE TUE 8:30/7:30c SEP 25 on Fox

What happens when an exuberant, irresponsible dreamer who always says “yes” moves in with his overly responsible little sister to help raise her five-year-old daughter? BEN AND KATE is a heartwarming new comedy that follows a pair of odd-couple siblings – one an overly responsible single mom; the other, an exuberant kid-at-heart – and their friends as they push each other out of their comfort zones and into real life.

KATE FOX (Dakota Johnson, “The Social Network”) followed the rules all her life…until she got pregnant in college and dropped out just shy of graduation. After the birth of her daughter, MADDIE (Maggie Jones, “We Bought a Zoo,” “Footloose”), Kate put her twenties on hold. Now working as a bar manager to make ends meet and maximize her time with five-year-old Maddie, she’s uber-prepared for every possible catastrophe – except for the arrival of her older brother,  BEN FOX (Nat Faxon, “Bad Teacher”).

Ben and Kate Official Site

~ Nat Faxon is not on social media and does not have a website.

Surfrider Foundation

The Surfrider Foundation

MISSION

A little over 25 years ago three people in Malibu, California found out that their favorite wave was about to be destroyed. Think about that for a second.

Think about something you love… something that gives you enjoyment. Taken away.

First Point, pictured to the right, the quintessential perfect California wave was about to be destroyed. Those three people organized and worked with the local municipalities until they were satisfied that their efforts to preserve that iconic wave would be successful.

This was the genesis of Surfrider Foundation.

Today, we are doing this same thing in about 18 countries around the world.

Our mission is the protection and enjoyment of oceans, waves and beaches through a powerful activist network.

You can think about that as three concepts. “Protection and enjoyment”, we don’t want to put a velvet rope around a beach and tell people to keep off. We’re surfers, we’re beach goers, we’re watermen… we enjoy the coasts. We’re a user group. Next up is “oceans, waves and beaches.” Think coastlines, we’re engaged with environmental issues that affect our coastlines. “Powerful activist network” speaks to how we go about this mission. We are a grassroots organization. We’re local in many coastal regions.

We’re moms, we’re surfers, we’re kids and teens… we’re you. We’re engaged to protect what we love: oceans, waves and beaches.

We would love to have you join us, you can join Surfrider here.

www.facebook.com/surfrider
twitter.com/surfrider
youtube.com/surfriderfoundation

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Thanks to GBK Events – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

GBK Productions is a Marketing, Public Relations, Fundraising and Special Events company dedicated to providing high quality, tailor-made service to its individual clients. GBK is known for integrating the Entertainment, Luxury Consumer Products and Non-Profit industries to create unique and memorable high-profile experiences that maximize its clients’ brand-building efforts.

Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Event Production, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. Though separate, each entity is interconnected allowing clients/brands a full range of marketing services and benefits.

Shameless Star Shanola Hampton on The Art of Elysium

Actress Shanola Hampton of Shameless Supports The Art of Elysiumg

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9PULxmzsvw]

Shanola was soooo fun to talk with and to meet. I really love the show Shameless on Showtime and was excited to get to speak with her about one of her passions. – JW

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Shanola Hampton

Shanola Hampton

From IMDB

Shanola Hampton was born May 27 in Long Island, NY, to a Car Salesman and an IRS agent.

She was raised in Summerville, South Carolina with her four sisters.

In college she earned a degree in Theater, with emphasis in Performance from Winthrop University along with a Masters Degree in Fine Arts from University of Illinois.

She moved to Los Angeles in 2001, and began appearing in commercials. Later, she made her first guest appearance in Ryan Murphy’s “Popular.” Her hobbies include, traveling back to South Carolina to spend time with family, Pilates, and swimming. Her hope is to one day open a Performing Arts School.

From Wikipedia

Hampton has appeared in several television series, such as: Reba, Popular, Scrubs, Related, and Miami Medical. She has also had roles in the movies: The Mostly Unfabulous Social Life of Ethan Green, The Hanged Man, and You Again.[1]

She has face modeled for the videogame Left 4 Dead 2.[citation needed]

She is a graduate of Winthrop University (with a degree in Theater), and also holds a Masters Degree in Fine Arts from the University of Illinois.

Shameless

In Summer 2010, Hampton was cast as a series regular on the Showtime dramedy Shameless as Veronica Fisher, a role for which she has received critical acclaim. The second season premiered January 8, 2012, with Hampton remaining part of the main cast.[2]

The Art of Elysium

MISSION

The Art of Elysium, a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization founded in 1997, 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.

VISION

The Art of Elysium is dedicated to enriching the lives of artists and critically ill children. We believe that there is a powerful and mutual exchange of hope and appreciation that occurs when artists share their time and talent with children battling serious medical conditions.

vision1.jpg

The lives of these children are largely filled with suffering, loneliness, fear and regimen. Artists have the unique ability to help children in need find a creative

vision2.jpg

voice and discover a sense of individuality and self-efficacy, even in the midst of overwhelmingly difficult circumstances.

In return, those same artists, who have been taken outside of their normal scope of work, are stretched and enriched in ways they never imagined.

Through this inimitable exchange between artist and child, the artist experiences the power of giving and the child experiences the power of their own artistic journey.

GOALS

• Create The Art of Elysium Center, a place where children can learn and artists can showcase their work. During the day, the center will be open for children in need to be taught acting, art processes, comedy and music. In the evening, the facility will be used for participating artists to present their creative work.

• Provide musical instruments, compact discs, videotape, art supplies and makeup for various pediatric facilities we serve.
goals_multi1.jpg
• Fulfill special requests for medically challenged youth, including but not limited to providing individual, continuing lessons in the arts after discharge from the hospital.

• Now that The Art of Elysium has opened in New York, further expansion into additional cities such as Memphis and/or Nashville.

ABOUT THE FOUNDER

Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, JENNIFER HOWELL landed in Los Angeles shortly after graduating Emerson College with a B.S. in Mass Communications/Film Focus. It was Jennifer’s love for film making that brought her to Hollywood but it was her deeper love for children that led her to her mission: The Art Of Elysium.

howell1.jpgIn the middle of December 1996, Jennifer’s close friend, Stephen Hatten, was in the midst of one his worst bouts with the Leukemia he’d been diagnosed with years earlier.

Stephen shared with Jennifer the story of a young boy he had recently met at a treatment center.

A young boy who was by himself for the majority of his time spent there, on his own because both of his parents had jobs that they could not abandon.

Although one could interpret Stephen’s story as well, just a story, Jennifer heard his message loud and clear. And the message Jennifer heard was this: No child should ever be alone during treatment.

And so it was. Jennifer started by gathering some friends, getting clearance from the children’s hospital and bringing her world into their world.

With her Southern lilt and a spirit that was and is boundless, Jennifer and her friends brought the kids a respite from their reality, a little bit of laughter and a smile that found its form more quickly each time.

Jennifer’s friend Stephen passed away in 1998, but his story turned message turned mission has caught on. Along with her team, Jennifer’s The Art of Elysium continues to bring singers, artists, actors and writers into children’s hospitals and pediatric care facilities where they bring their talents, and of course their hearts, to the kids.

What was once Jennifer and a few friends is now a community of people who share the idea that no child should go through medical treatment alone.

Site: http://www.theartofelysium.org/
Twitter: @theartofelysium

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Thanks to GBK Events – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Boo Boo Stewart Talks About ChildHelp.org

Boo Boo Stewart talks to us about his favorite cause ChildHelp.org

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdY_bwyNcXw]

I met Boo Boo Stewart the GBK Events Gifting Suite for the 2012 Golden Globes, as he was walking around helping support the various presenters and causes.

I wanted more time with Boo Boo to talk about the Twilight Sagas, his music and new projects, but got rushed a bit.

Boo Boo was very nice and we so appreciate all he and his sister Fivel is doing for Childhelps.org. Child Abuse is a very serious matter and five children die in the U.S. every day due to child abuse. Please find out how you can help too. – JW

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Boo Boo Stewart

Standing out amongst his generation as the next breakout movie star, Booboo Stewart is sure to build a lasting career similar to the likes of Leonardo Dicaprio and Johnny Depp. Between his good looks, charms and many talents to boot, he is consistently listed as one of the “Faces to Watch” amongst the hottest in Hollywood.

BooBoo Stewart (born Nils Allen Stewart, Jr.; January 21, 1994) is a singer, dancer, model, actor, and a black belt Hall of Fame martial artist. He has appeared and starred in several independent and TV films including episodes of “Steve Harvey’s Big Time Challenge,” “ER,” “Dante’s Cove,” and “Everybody Hates Chris.” Building his resume as a versatile actor, he has done stunt work on several films including the 2006 film, Zoom, as well the 2007 film, Beowulf, and hosted six episodes of children’s show Blue Dolphin Kids in Hawaii.

During 2006-2008, he was member of Disney’s musical group, T-Squad. He toured in Camp Rock Freestyle Jam, and with “Hannah Montana”/Miley Cyrus in her Best of Both Worlds Tour featuring the Jonas Brothers. He recorded the opening theme from Disney Channel Games 2008 “Let’s Go!,” and in 2010 “Under the Sea (from The Little Mermaid)” for the Disney recompilation disc DisneyMania 7.

Currently, he is touring with his sister Fivel Stewart, and they are set to release their album “Change” in the spring of 2011. His imagination and creative talents also brought him to illustrate a new and exciting comic book entitled “Millennium Man,” which will be unveiled this year. In 2008, he was featured in various campaigns, and was “the most in demand male model under 18 in the country.

Booboo is best recognized for his portrayal of Seth Clearwater in the The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, third installment of The Twilight Saga film series. Booboo’s character becomes much more prominent in the 2011 and 2012 films The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn.

In his free time Booboo likes to give back. In 2010, he was named a Celebrity Ambassador by the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He participated in MDA’s “Make a Muscle, Make a Difference” PSA campaign, featured in print and TV ads. He also supports the Los Angeles Mission, various children’s charities and has traveled to Perth, Australia for the Channel 7 Telethon, raising money for children at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Child Help

The story of Childhelp is about two young Hollywood actresses’ “chance” encounters—one with 11 homeless orphans abroad, and one with Nancy Reagan—and how they led to a lifelong commitment to helping children in need.

The Childhelp Story

Yvonne (left) and Sara – 1959

The Beginning of a Lifetime Commitment to Children…

Eleven half-American, half-Japanese orphans wandering homeless in Tokyo following a typhoon sparked a mission that has spanned internationally for nearly 50 years and impacted the lives of millions of children.

Hollywood actresses Sara Buckner (O’Meara) and Yvonne Lime (Fedderson) first met on the set of The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet, when they played the girlfriends of Ricky and David Nelson. Their mission for children began in 1959 when they were sent on a government-sponsored goodwill tour to visit troops in Japan.  Read More………

Child Abuse in America

Children are suffering from a hidden epidemic of child abuse and neglect. Every year 3.3 million reports of child abuse are made in the United States involving 6 million children; that’s because reports can include multiple children. The United States has the worst record in the industrialized nation – losing five children every day due to abuse-related deaths.

Statistics Graph Number of Child Deaths Per Day Due To Child Abuse and Neglect

For More National Child Abuse Statistics [CLICK HERE]

What is Child Abuse

Although there are many formal and acceptable definitions of child abuse, the following is offered as a guide for information on child abuse and neglect.

Child abuse consists of any act of commission or omission that endangers or impairs a child’s physical or emotional health and development. Child abuse includes any damage done to a child which cannot be reasonably explained and which is often represented by an injury or series of injuries appearing to be non-accidental in nature.

Forms of Child Abuse

Physical abuse

Any non-accidental injury to a child. This includes hitting, kicking, slapping, shaking, burning, pinching, hair pulling, biting, choking, throwing, shoving, whipping, and paddling.

Sexual abuse

Any sexual act between an adult and child. This includes fondling, penetration, intercourse, exploitation, pornography, exhibitionism, child prostitution, group sex, oral sex, or forced observation of sexual acts.

Neglect

Failure to provide for a child’s physical needs. This includes lack of supervision, inappropriate housing or shelter, inadequate provision of food and water, inappropriate clothing for season or weather, abandonment, denial of medical care and inadequate hygiene.

Emotional abuse

Any attitude or behavior which interferes with a child’s mental health or social development. This includes yelling, screaming, name-calling, shaming, negative comparisons to others, telling them they are “bad, no good, worthless” or “a mistake.” It also includes the failure to provide the affection and support necessary for the development of a child’s emotional, social, physical and intellectual well-being. This includes ignoring, lack of appropriate physical affection (hugs), not saying “I love you,” withdrawal of attention, lack of praise and lack of positive reinforcement.

Additional information regarding signs and symptoms of abuse (PDF).

What do I do if I think someone is abusing a child?

If a child discloses that he or she has been abused by someone, it is important that you LISTEN to them most of all.

  • Ask ONLY four questions
  • What happened?
  • Who did this to you?
  • Where were you when this happened?
  • When did this happen?
    Asking any additional questions may contaminate a case!

DO NOT

  • Investigate
  • Ask leading questions (a question that suggests the answer or contains the information the questioner is looking for – That man touched you, didn’t he?)
  • Make promises
  • Notify the parents or the caretaker

DO

  • Provide a safe environment (be comforting, welcoming, and a good listener)
  • Tell the child it was not his/her fault
  • Listen carefully
  • Document the child’s exact quotes
  • Be supportive, not judgmental
  • Know your limits
  • Tell the truth

If you suspect abuse, but a child has not disclosed to you, call 1-800-4-A-CHILD. Or counselors can talk through the situation with you and help decide what the best course of action is.

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Thanks to GBK Events – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

RevitaLash Announces New FineLine Primer

RevitaLash announced it’s newest product FineLine Primer at the GBK Gifting Suites for the MTV Movie Awards 2012

Bree Maxwell of Athena Cosmetics talks to me about the Revitalash FineLine Primer
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhS-DECFBU0]

Bree Anne Maxwell of Athena Cosmetics and I see each other at many of the celebrity gifting suits in Hollywood and Beverly Hills.

Revitalash Eyelash conditioner. I have not used these products but they are a favorite of many celebrities.

This time we got to talk about the new FineLine Primer product from RevitaLash.

Great to see you again Bree Anne. – JW

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FineLine Primer

FineLine Primer is specifically formulated to create a silky, smooth texture that conforms to the contours of your skin. Fine lines and wrinkles on the skin’s surface will appear softened and less visible, while leaving your skin feeling smooth and supple. $60.00(USD) 15 mL. / 0.50 Oz.

Revitalash productsRevitaLash®

The Story

It all began when a Doctor wanted to give his wife a very special gift.

RevitaLash® was developed by Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D. as a special gift for his wife, Gayle, while she was recovering from metastatic breast cancer treatments. Intensive chemotherapy had damaged Gayle’s once-beautiful eyelashes, leaving them fragile, sparse and thin. Based upon his knowledge and experience as a practicing ophthalmologist for over 25 years, Dr. Brinkenhoff believed that he could develop a formula that would give Gayle’s eyelashes the look of renewed health, strength and beauty.

After extensive research, Dr. Brinkenhoff, together with a talented team of cosmetic chemists, created a product that truly gave the beautiful look of renewed vitality to Gayle’s eyelashes. RevitaLash® was the perfect name for this amazing product!

Thus, an entirely new and unique cosmetic product was born; and a formula created originally for just one special lady has become a product available to men and women everywhere who want to have attractive, beautiful-looking eyelashes.

Often we feel helpless when someone we love is suffering. I am very fortunate, in my own small way, to have been able to help Gayle through her recovery. Watching her be excited about her beautiful looking eyelashes has been a real joy.

— Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D.

RevitaLash®

Products

RevitaLash® ADVANCED contains a proprietary blend of proven functional cosmetic ingredients pioneered by Athena Cosmetic Inc., including an infusion of powerful peptides and soothing botanicals, designed to both beautify and nourish the eyelashes. RevitaLash® ADVANCED is both dermatologist and ophthalmologist reviewed, non-allergenic and in a clinical study over 97% of users saw an improved appearance of their eyelashes in only 3 weeks!

Inspired by America’s #1 Eyelash Conditioner, Hair ADVANCED by RevitaLash® is a unique hair conditioner that fortifies and strengthens the hair so it appears thicker, fuller and healthier.  This remarkable hair bulking product enhances the appearance of fine, thin, fragile-looking hair in a matter of weeks. Packed with conditioning agents like Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng Root, Swertia Japonica Extract, fruit extracts and wheat proteins, Hair ADVANCED by RevitaLash® is revitalizing and very easy to use. All you need is one or two pumps massaged into areas where you want your hair to appear thicker and fuller.

Beautifully shaped eyebrows are now easier to achieve than ever before with RevitaBrow®.  Utilizing the power of peptides and botanicals to strengthen, condition and nourish the eyebrows along with advanced technology, RevitaBrow® will help you achieve a more polished look by creating thicker and fuller appearing eyebrows.  When applied daily on a clean brow, you should start to see healthier looking brows within weeks!

Athena Cosmetics

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. is committed to the belief that it’s continuing business success is built upon the manufacture and sale of safe, reliable, quality products, combined with uncompromising integrity and the spirit of philanthropy. As a company, we embrace and pass these values on to our customers, employees and partners.

Integrity

Our goal is to succeed in the marketplace by having the integrity to produce safe, top quality products that deliver a real benefit to our customers. Athena Cosmetics, Inc. has always taken great care to comply with all laws, and to uphold the values and principles that have been the hallmark of its company from its inception. We are devoted to the solid ethical business principles of honesty and hard work.

Quality

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. seeks the highest quality in research, information, business partners and people. We produce excellent products that are safe for the public  and which deliver high quality and reliability to our valued customers. We accept nothing less.

Philanthropy

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. has made philanthropy a cornerstone of its business profile. We believe in giving back to the community, as it is this care belief which inspired the creation of our company. All of our employees and staff are dedicated examples of this philosophy. Athena Cosmetics, Inc. is proud and honored to devote time, energy and resources to the goal of fighting breast cancer both by public education programs and by the contribution of time, energy and financial resources to the ultimate goal of finding a cure for this epidemic disease. Our philanthropic activities have focused on several organizations dedicated to breast cancer community across the country. Click Here to find out more information and to see how you can help!!!

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. is proud to be a part of the cosmetic business community and will continually strive to achieve the highest goals in all our endeavors.

If you are looking to try some of the RevitaLash products you can find them at RevitaLash®

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

Worldteam Foundation Works to Abolish Slavery in the U.S. and Abroad

Worldteam Foundation is Fighting to Abolish Slavery Which Enslaves Annually over 27 Million, With Over Half of Those Children

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HddYVBVF68]

I love GBK Events because they are so supportive of local and global causes.

At their recent gifting suite for the Oscars, they promoted several charities and causes and it gave me a chance to meet Worldteam Foundation who is fighting slavery her in the U.S. and abroad.

I wish it were not even a topic, because it is so hard to believe the things that one human can do to another. I want to thank Worldteam and GBK for all they are doing and for giving me the chance to help support their cause. – JW

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Worldteam foundation

WORLDTEAM was formed in 2008 as the social justice arm of TEAM International to focus on bringing solutions to societies of poverty in Thailand that will promote health and wholeness for children, youth and women caught in the cycles of poverty that lead to prostitution and human trafficking.

Leaders Rick and Sue Clark have established relationships with programs in northern and southern Thailand that are rescuing, nurturing and restoring children and women in order to provide additional support, funding and networking.

Worldteam chooses to be a part of the solution not only in Thailand but in the U.S. as well.

WORLDTEAM’s mission is to fight human trafficking and sexual slavery by partnering with existing organizations to rescue at-risk and exploited children and women.

They  focus on funding and creating support structures that provide a  holistic nurturing environment, education and vocational training that will in turn produce transformed lives and societies.

Worldteam’s primary target field has been Thailand because of the Clark family’s work in Thailand since 1985.

www.WorldteamFoundation.org

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Kristi Lauren “I Hate My Teenage Daughter” Loves to Give Back

Kristi Lauren gives back with Support for Aids Research, Clean Water Initiatives and Especially a Cervical Cancer Cure

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nmlxp20FKv0]

The site was the rooftop pool at the famous L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills. 

Kristi Lauren was posing for pictures for various non profits and and other businesses that are working hard to get their products to market with a little hand from celebrity endorsements.

Kristi was having a great time and although she did not have a single or particular cause she was supporting, she wanted to share with others her concerns and her belief that it is important to give back.

Kristi and her mom were so fun and and Kristi is a really down to earth kind of person. It was fun interviewing her and we wish her the best of luck with the new show. – JW

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Kristi LaurenKristi Lauren

From Wikipedia

Kristi Lauren (born January 19, 1994) is an American actress. She currently co-stars as Sophie Watson on the Fox sitcom I Hate My Teenage Daughter.

Lauren began acting professionally in 2004 in the short film Save Virgil. In 2006, she had small role in the film Living the Dream starring Sean Young. In 2009, she co-starred in Melora Hardin‘s directorial debut film You. She also guest starred in the series Wizards of Waverly Place and Working Class in 2009 and 2011, respectively.[1]

Twitter: @KristiiLauren

Facebook: www.Facebook.com

Water, Aids and Cervical Cancer

The following organizations are not necesarily endorsed by Kristi Lauren and are placed here just for reference. They were chosen because they were rated the tops in their niches by Charity Navigator.

Water.org

The water and sanitation problem in the developing world is far too big for charity alone. We are driving the water sector for new solutions, new financing models, greater transparency, and real partnerships to create lasting change. Our vision: the day when everyone in the world can take a safe drink of water.

Co-founded by Matt Damon and Gary White, Water.org is a nonprofit organization that has transformed hundreds of communities in Africa, South Asia, and Central America by providing access to safe water and sanitation.

Water.org traces its roots back to the founding of WaterPartners in 1990. In July 2009, WaterPartners merged with H2O Africa, resulting in the launch of Water.org. Water.org works with local partners to deliver innovative solutions for long-term success. Its microfinance-based WaterCredit Initiative is pioneering sustainable giving in the sector.

The Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center

The Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center (ADARC) was established in 1991 to focus on the basic science of AIDS and HIV in a research environment that fosters the highest scientific creativity. ADARC is the world’s largest independent research center devoted solely to HIV/AIDS Research.

We are fully committed to our mission to find solutions that will ultimately end the AIDS pandemic. We have adopted a multidisciplinary approach – virology, immunology, molecular biology, and clinical medicine – to pursue a number of projects in AIDS research.

In addition to basic research, ADARC also runs a Clinical Program that translates research into Clinical Trials that can affect millions of people living with HIV.

Prevent Cancer Foundation

The mission of the Prevent Cancer Foundation is the to save lives through cancer prevention and early detection.

The Foundation focuses its energies and resources on those cancers – including breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, oral, prostate, skin, and testicular – that can be prevented through lifestyle changes or detection and treatment in their early stages.

Since our inception 25 years ago, we have provided more than $125 million in support of cancer prevention and early detection research, education, advocacy, and community outreach programs nationwide and have played a pivotal role in developing a body of knowledge that is the basis for important prevention and early detection strategies.

We have funded over 400 scientists at over 150 leading medical institutions across the country. Our public education programs have applied this scientific knowledge to teach the public on ways they can reduce their cancer risks.

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Janina Gavankar From True Blood Helps LGBT Youth

Janina Gavankar’s Message To LGBT Teens is; It Gets Better.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3AS82y8_xRI]

While covering the GBK Events Gifting Suite for the 2012 Golden Globes, I got the pleasure of meeting Janina Gavankar for the first time.

I had seen her playing Luna on True Blood and I did see a couple of episodes of the L word and think I remembered her there, but up close she is stunningly beautiful, and very nice, but there was more….

I got a chance to later meet Janina again at the Gravity Summit at UCLA where she was honored with an award for use of social media… and that’s where I figured it all out. Janina is funny, a bit quirky and a true geek and that makes her cool.

I look forward to meeting her again. – JW

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Janina GavankaJanina Gavankar

| Actor
| Musician
| Geek

From Wikipedia

Janina Zione Gavankar (born November 29, 1980) is an Indian-American actress and musician of mixed Indian and Dutch descent. Gavankar is also trained as a pianist, vocalist, and orchestral percussionist.[1] She majored in Theatre Performance at the University of Illinois at Chicago.[2][3] Gavankar’s is known for her more notable roles as Papi, a promiscuous lesbian in The L Word, Leigh Turner, a cop with a big secret on “The Gates“, and Ms. Dewey, the personification of a Microsoft branded search engine who comments about the user’s searches. Gavankar has appeared in theatre, commercials, short films, independent films, as well as Barbershop and its sequel, Barbershop 2: Back in Business.

Gavankar’s more notable roles include Papi in The L Word, and Ms. Dewey, a Microsoft marketing character. She has also appeared in theatre, commercials, short films, independent films, as well as Barbershop and its sequel, Barbershop 2: Back in Business.

Gavankar has appeared on Epileptic Gaming‘s Up All Night, where she helped review Rock Band, Burnout Paradise, and Army of Two.[6]

In 2008, Gavankar appeared in TV series Stargate Atlantis, Grey’s Anatomy and NCIS. In 2009, she appeared in The Cleaner, Dollhouse and Three Rivers. Gavankar played the voice of “Nikki” in Quantum Quest: A Cassini Space Odyssey. She landed a lead role in the now-canceled ABC Television supernatural drama The Gates.[7]

As of 2011 Gavankar has become a series regular in HBO’s True Blood. She plays a public school teacher and shapeshifter named Luna Garza, who gets romantically involved with one of the main characters of the series.[8]

She recently revealed she finished filming on a movie called Satellite of Love.[9]

logo it gets better project

It Gets Better Project

The It Gets Better Project was created to show young LGBT people the levels of happiness, potential, and positivity their lives will reach – if they can just get through their teen years. The It Gets Better Project wants to remind teenagers in the LGBT community that they are not alone — and it WILL get better.

Growing up isn’t easy. Many young people face daily tormenting and bullying, leading them to feel like they have nowhere to turn. This is especially true for LGBT kids and teens, who often hide their sexuality for fear of bullying. Without other openly gay adults and mentors in their lives, they can’t imagine what their future may hold. In many instances, gay and lesbian adolescents are taunted — even tortured — simply for being themselves.

Justin Aaberg. Billy Lucas. Cody Barker. Asher Brown. Seth Walsh. Raymond Chase. Tyler Clementi. They were tragic examples of youth who could not believe that it does actually get better.

While many of these teens couldn’t see a positive future for themselves, we can. The It Gets Better Project was created to show young LGBT people the levels of happiness, potential, and positivity their lives will reach – if they can just get through their teen years. The It Gets Better Project wants to remind teenagers in the LGBT community that they are not alone — and it WILL get better.

In September 2010, syndicated columnist and author Dan Savage created a YouTube video with his partner Terry Miller to inspire hope for young people facing harassment. In response to a number of students taking their own lives after being bullied in school, they wanted to create a personal way for supporters everywhere to tell LGBT youth that, yes, it does indeed get better.

The It Gets Better Project™ has become a worldwide movement, inspiring more than 40,000 user-created videos viewed more than 40 million times. To date, the project has received submissions from celebrities, organizations, activists, politicians and media personalities, including President Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, Adam Lambert, Anne Hathaway, Colin Farrell, Matthew Morrison of “Glee”, Joe Jonas, Joel Madden, Ke$ha, Sarah Silverman, Tim Gunn, Ellen DeGeneres, Suze Orman, the staffs of The Gap, Google, Facebook, Pixar, the Broadway community, and many more. For us, every video changes a life. It doesn’t matter who makes it.  Read More………

It Gets Better Project

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Thanks to GBK Events – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Reno Wilson of Mike and Molly Supports ThinkCure Cancer Community

Reno WilsonReno Wilson plays Mike’s partner Officer Carl McMillan on CBS’s Mike and Molly

Reno, now living in Los Angeles via the Brooklyn, has played many parts and is now gaining recognition on CBS’s hit show Mike and Molly, but Reno also supports many causes including ThinkCure who’s mission is to fight cancer.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My1Vc0StFMk]

My wife and I love the show Mike and Molly and so I was very pleased to see and meet Reno at the GBK Gifting Suites for the Golden Globes.

Reno was having fun cracking up all the vendors with his easy and friendly sense of humor.

Reno is the kind of guy who looks you in the eye and is interested in your name and who you are. It made this interview very friendly and fun.

I need to take you up on that spin class…. Thanks Reno – JW

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Reno WilsonReno Wilson

Actor / Voice Artist / Producer

From Wikipedia

Reno Wilson (born Roy Wilson; January 20, 1970) is an American actor and voice artist who has appeared in a number of television programs and films. His first television role was on the NBC sitcom The Cosby Show, where (on a recurring basis) he portrayed Theo Huxtable’s college friend Howard during Seasons 5 and 6 of the series. His most recent film roles were that of Orlando in the 2009 film Crank: High Voltage, reprising his role from Crank, and as the voices of Frenzy, Mudflap and Brains in the Transformers film series. He is also the voice of Sazh Katzroy in Final Fantasy XIII. He is currently in the TV show Mike and Molly on CBS, has also acted in Prison Break and the current voice of the character Killer Bee in the anime Naruto Shippuden.

That is the Wikipedia bio, but you really need to check out Reno’s IMDB page as he has played in so many more great movies and shows… To name a few..

Scrubs, Heist, Blind Justice, Sliders, NYPD Blue, The Sentinel, Sgt. Bilko, Coach, The Fresh Prince and many more….

ThinkCureThinkCure!

ThinkCure! is an innovative, community-based non-profit that raises funds to accelerate collaborative research to cure cancers.

Our vision is to bring Southern Californians together to work towards a common cause to cure children and adults with cancer.

We aim to find cures for cancers by funding innovative research projects at City of Hope and Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. An objective, peer-based panel of expert doctors reviews two-year grant applications once a year and funds are awarded to the most promising collaborative and cutting edge cancer research projects that can involve other top cancer research hospitals.

At ThinkCure!, we rely on community support, calling on everyone in our community to get involved and make a difference in the fight against cancer. Your support in any amount is essential to our programs, please donate to help us work to find cures for cancers.

Read more about our Mission and History. Or learn about our partner hospitals City of Hope and Childrens Hospital Los Angeles.

Looking for our most recent 990?  Get the PDF here.

ThinkCure Spin Event Yas-A-Thon at YAS Studios on 06/03/12.

If you live in Los Angeles you can visit any one of the several YAS (Yoga and Spinning) Studios for this event: More Info Here……

ThinkCure! Website

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Samantha Harris of DWTS and ET on Feeding America’s Hungry Children

Samantha Harris Works with Feeding America.Org to Help Stop Childhood Hunger in America

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMPgbMXDTpA]

We caught Samantha Harris, formally co-host of Dancing With The Stars and Entertainment Tonight, and recently on Stars Earn Strips, at the GBK Gifting Suites for the 2012 Oscars. Stars come out to support great charities and businesses that often support their own charities.

I really love this charity as past Los Angeles Coordinator of Feed333 which for 3 years running, was the nations #1 largest one day food giveaway, I am familiar with the hunger issue in America and it is not just about the homeless. We are talking about the working poor in this country. Below you will find statistics that should make us all a bit embarrassed.

What a great honor it was to get to interview such a well known interviewer. I did not ask her how I did, but I can tell you how cool Samantha was.

I left a little leader on this interview to show you what I mean. She was in a hurry and we had camera issues. She just dealt and came back when we fixed it.

She told me that she was not new to technical difficulties. Even though she has interviewed some of the most important or well known people of our time she made me feel so comfortable… Thanks Samantha. – JW

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Samantha HarrisSamantha Harris

A seasoned entertainment news journalist and two-time Emmy-nominated TV personality, Samantha Harris was recently seen co-hosting Stars Earn Strips  with General Wesley Clark four-star general as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander on NBC. She commentated the action for a plethora of celebrities as they competed on special forces missions. Samantha is also well known for her work on the world’s #1 entertainment news program, Entertainment Tonight, as correspondent.  In just her first months with the show, she covered the Cannes Film Festival, traveled to two film sets in Hawaii (for interviews with Jennifer Aniston and Nicole Kidman), and also interviewed stars such as Jake Gyllenhaal, Russell Crowe, Sting, Cate Blanchett, Michael Douglas and more!

Samantha is best-known for her eight seasons co-hosting the live ABC hit Dancing With The Stars, which averaged more than 30 million viewers weekly and was the #2 most-watched show in the U.S. in each of those years.  In Season 2, she even kicked up her heals on the ballroom floor to perform a Jive routine with World Smooth Champion and DWTS professional dancer Jonathan Roberts.

Simultaneously with her time on DWTS, Samantha pulled double hosting duty as she passionately shared her opinion nightly as a panelist and correspondent on the entertainment news program CBS Television Distribution’s The Insider.

In her first year with the program, she covered President Obama’s inauguration in Washington, D.C.; surfed the North Coast of Oahu during an interview with 19-year-old surfing champion Bethany Hamilton – who lost her arm to a shark attack at age 13; interviewed Oprah in Chicago and Olympic skater Nancy Kerrigan in LA, in the days following her father’s death; as well as interviewed Hollywood’s A-list on the red carpet at the Emmys, SAG Awards, Golden Globes and Oscars.

Additionally, Samantha made her Broadway debut in summer 2009 in New York City, singing and dancing for sold-out audiences playing the iconic role of “Roxie Hart” in the long-running musical CHICAGO.

Samantha has been seen on a myriad of TV shows, including: filling in for Meredith Vieira as a guest host for a week on Who Wants To Be A Millionaire; multiple times as a guest host on ABC’s The View; contributing as a special correspondent on ABC’s Good Morning America.

One of her greatest honors was hosting, alongside Regis Philbin, the live official red carpet pre-show for ABC’s 80th Annual Academy Awards: Road To the Red Carpet, which garnered nearly one billion viewers worldwide.

samantha harrisBeginning in January 2005 and continuing for four years, Harris was seen in over 130 countries in 600 million homes on E! Entertainment Television.  In addition to writing, producing and reporting daily for E! News, she co-hosted the network’s live award-show coverage for the Oscars, Golden Globes and Emmys.  Samantha has also found herself reporting from inside San Quentin Penitentiary as host for E!’s THS Investigates, a spin-off series from the producers of E! True Hollywood Story.

Prior to her work on The Insider and E!, Samantha served as the weekend co-host and full-time correspondent for the nationally syndicated entertainment news magazine Extra which she joined in 2003.  As a correspondent who sought out unique stories, Samantha took to the stage performing with Cirque du Soleil, sang a duet with Wayne Newton during his live show in Las Vegas, as well as dancing her way into the arms of the late beloved Patrick Swayze backstage, while he was starring in the LA tour-stop of Chicago.

Samantha’s other hosting credits include FOX’s The Next Joe Millionaire, AMC Access (a show produced by NBC’s Access Hollywood forthe AMC network).

Harris’ triple-threat talents were noticed within her first years living in Los Angeles.  Hot off the North American musical tour Eric Idle Exploits Monty Python (where Samantha’s comedic, vocal, and dance performance electrified audiences at Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, and other prestigious venues), CBS cast her as America’s sweetheart, “Dawn Wells aka Mary Ann”, in its made-for-TV movie Surviving Gilligan’s Island.  Samantha’s other acting credits include the multi-award winning Reefer Madness!: The New “Hit” Musical(original cast) as well as multiple feature films and television shows.

In addition to gracing the cover of Muscle & Fitness HERS magazine a record four times,Samantha has also been seen on the covers of a variety of other magazine including USA Today magazine, FIRST, Fit Parent.  She has been featured inmany magazines including SHAPE, People, Health, Self, and others.  As a fitness enthusiast, she loves dancing, cardio-sculpting, Bikram yoga but will also confess… she’s a dessert fanatic!

Samantha is actively involved in various charities. She is on the Entertainment Council of Feeding America and has actively supported the Revlon Run/Walk and What A Pair for cancer research, Operation Smile, P.S. Arts, the Crohns and Colitis Foundation of America and others.

In 2009, Samantha was given the honor of making her Wall Street debut by ‘Ringing The Bell’ to open trading at the New York Stock Exchange in front of a television audience of more than 120 million.

Born and raised in Hopkins, MN by a rock concert promoter father and dancer mother – who together created and produced one of the country’s first Renaissance festivals, King Richard’s Faire– Samantha went on to graduate with honors from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism in Evanston, IL.  She currently resides in Los Angeles, CA, with her husband, Michael, and their two daughters, Josselyn and Hillary.

So now that Samantha is not with Dancing with The Stars and E! Entertainment, what is she up to? Samantha has teamed up with the charity Feeding America and its partner Nestle’s Juicy Juice as the spokesperson for this summer’s Fruit For All Project, which will donate 35 million pieces of fresh fruit to children and families in need.”

For more info and photos of Samantha Harris, go to www.samantha-harris.com

Feeding America

In many ways, America is the land of plenty. But for 1 in 6 people in the United States, hunger is a reality. Many people believe that the problems associated with hunger are confined to small pockets of society, certain areas of the country, or certain neighborhoods, but the reality is much different.

Right now, millions of Americans are struggling with hunger.  These are often hard-working adults, children and seniors who simply cannot make ends meet and are forced to go without food for several meals, or even days.

It’s time to educate ourselves about the causes of hunger in America.

Feeding America is the nation’s leading hunger-relief charity. Through its network of more than 200 food banks, Feeding America provides assistance to more than 25 million low-income people facing hunger in the United States each year.

Take the Hunger Quiz

Hunger & Poverty Statistics

Although related, food insecurity and poverty are not the same.  Unemployment rather than poverty is a stronger predictor of food insecurity.

Poverty [1]

  • In 2009, 43.6 million people (14.3 percent) were in poverty.
  • In 2009, 8.8 million (11.1% percent) families were in poverty.
  • In 2009, 24.7 million (12.9 percent) of people ages 18-64 were in poverty.
  • In 2009, 15.5 million (20.7 percent) children under the age of 18 were in poverty.
  • In 2009, 3.4 million (8.9 percent) seniors 65 and older were in poverty.

Food Insecurity and Very Low Food Security[2]

  • In 2010, 48.8 million Americans lived in food insecure households, 32.6 million adults and 16.2 million children.
  • In 2010, 14.5 percent of households (17.2 million households) were food insecure.
  • In 2010, 5.4 percent of households (6.4 million households) experienced very low food security.
  • In 2010, households with children reported food insecurity at a significantly higher rate than those without children, 20.2 percent compared to 11.7 percent.
  • In 2010, households that had higher rates of food insecurity than the national average included households with children (20.2 percent), especially households with children headed by single women (35.1 percent) or single men (25.4 percent), Black non-Hispanic households (25.1 percent) and Hispanic households (26.2 percent).
  • In 2009, 8.0 percent of seniors living alone (925,000 households) were food insecure.
  • Food insecurity exists in every county in America, ranging from a low of 5 percent in Steele County, ND to a high of 38 percent in Wilcox County, AL.[3]

Nine states exhibited statistically significant higher household food insecurity rates than the U.S. national average 2008-2010:1

 United States                    14.6%
 Mississippi                      19.4%
 Texas                            18.8%
 Arkansas                         18.6%
 Alabama                          17.3%
 Georgia                          16.9%
 Ohio                             16.4%
 Florida                          16.1%
 California                       15.9%
 North Carolina                   15.7%

Use of Emergency Food Assistance and Federal Food Assistance Programs

  • In 2010, 4.8 percent of all U.S. households (5.6 million households) accessed emergency food from a food pantry one or more times.2
  • In 2010, 59.2 percent of food-insecure households participated in at least one of the three major Federal food assistance programs –Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly Food Stamp Program), The National School Lunch Program, and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.2
  • Feeding America provides emergency food assistance to an estimated 37 million low-income people annually, a 46 percent increase from 25 million since Hunger in America 2010.[4]
  • Among members of Feeding America, 74 percent of pantries, 65 percent of kitchens, and 54 percent of shelters reported that there had been an increase since 2006 in the number of clients who come to their emergency food program sites.4

[1] U.S. Census Bureau. Carmen  DeNavas-Walt, B. Proctor, C. Lee.  Income, Poverty, and Heath Insurance Coverage in the United States:  2009.

[2] USDA. Coleman-Jensen, A., Nord, M., Andrews, M., & Carlson, S.  Household Food Security in the United States in 2010.

[3] Feeding America. Gundersen, G., Waxman, E., Engelhard, E., & Brown, J. Map the Meal Gap, 2011.

[4]Rhoda Cohen, J., Mabli, F., Potter, Z., Zhao. Mathematica Policy Research, Feeding America.  Hunger in America 2010.  February 2010.


[i] U.S. Department of Labor.Bureau of Labor Statistics. 2010 Annual Average Unemployment Rates.

Feeding America Website

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Thanks to GBK Events – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Related Posts:
Samantha Harris from Dancing with the Stars and Entertainment Tonight has Revealed her Cancer has Spread.

Karina Smirnoff of Dancing with The Stars on Helping Kids Learn the Arts

Karina Smirnoff of Dancing with The Stars Gives Back Helping Kids Get Affordable Arts Education

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDDM5se76Es]

Things were pretty crazy as a bunch of celebrities came, all at the same time, into the tent around the pool on the roof of the L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills. 

Karina was busy visiting vendors and non-profit booths to help them promote their projects and products, when she stopped for a minute to talk to me about her passion AIM.

Karina was so fun and so cool and she was happy to talk about the cause she has been supporting.

So Karina thank you very much for taking the time and being so gracious. – JW

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Karina SmirnoffKarina Smirnoff

Season 13 Mirror Ball Champion Karina Smirnoff has made her mark for the past six years as one of the featured dancers on ABC’s hit reality series Dancing with the Stars. Her success on Dancing with the Stars, the #1 rated show in its category averaging 36+ million viewers per week, has made Karina a household name and a sought after beauty, health, fitness, and fashion icon. In 2011 she was the most Googled professional dancer on the show.

What most people don’t know about the Ukrainian beauty is that her skills are not merely physical. She studied diligently at Fordham University in New York and earned two degrees – a B.A. in Economics and in Information Systems Programming. Karina is also a talented fashion designer and choreographer. She choreographs all of her own partnered routines on Dancing with the Stars and has been designing all of the costumes for both her and her current partner for the season since day one.

Karina started competing in ballroom dancing competitions at the age of 11. She is a five-time U.S. National Champion, World Trophy Champion, and Asian Open Champion. She has won the title at the UK Open, is a three-time champion at the US Open, two-time champion at the Asian Open, five-time champion at the Dutch Open, and five-time US National Professional Champion. She has taken second at the British Open Blackpool Dance Festival and she is the first woman to also ever make the “British Professional Final” with three different partners. Karina has also been ranked #2 in the world for Latin Dance.

She is considered “one of the most stylish and fit stars in Hollywood” and has been featured in numerous publications: FHM, Fitness Magazine, LA Confidential, Muscle & Fitness, TV Guide, and Woman’s World. She is a regular on the pages of People Magazine, Life & Style, US Weekly, OK! Magazine, and In Touch.

In 2011, Karina released two new designs from her Bearpaw Boots KS Collection – the Alyeska and the Capulet. She also joined forces with Girlactik Beauty to create Karina’s Hurry Up & Get Ready Look – a quick solution to look party perfect in minutes. She released her first successful dance fitness DVD called Shape Up with Karina and will be releasing a series of workout DVD’s called DanceFITNESS. She also opened a successful dance studio in Woodland Hills, CA called Karina Smirnoff Dance. The studio incorporates competitive, social dance classes, and fitness dance classes, as well as a scholarship program for at-risk youth directly related to her charity Dance Intervention – a division of Alternative Intervention Models.

Karina has a passion for environmental causes and her dance studio is the first eco-friendly LEED certified studio of its kind. In addition, Karina has led a celebrity consortium to activate the Wildlife Champions initiative with Procter & Gamble. She is also a PETA spokeswoman for the “I’d rather dance naked than wear fur” billboard and print campaign.

Karina recently launched her successful DanceFIT – KS program. DanceFIT – KS is a customized, unique fitness experience for hotel, resort, and cruise ship guests with a celebrity dance instructor that they will not get elsewhere. It is also gaining momentum at large, medium and small corporations as a way to keep workers motivated in the workplace, build company morale, and help workers achieve their health and wellness goals. Karina is touring internationally with the program.

Her past accomplishments include a starring role in Broadway’s hit record breaking sold out show Burn the Floor and a performance at the 61st annual Primetime Emmy Awards. Karina has hosted segments for E! News, TV Guide, EXTRA, and has appeared in specials on Bravo, ABC, and Lifetime. She has appeared on Good Morning America, The View, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Hannah Montana, among others. She has also appeared in the film Shall We Dance.

Karina is a versatile and dynamic talent and a force to be reckoned with. She continues to captivate fans and audiences worldwide with her charismatic personality, unparalleled performance capabilities, beauty, and grace.

Alternative Intervention Models

Alternative Intervention Model’s goal it to enrich lives through the arts.

Our mission is to transform and develop hearts and minds of at-risk youth using the arts to inspire critical self-reflection and self-improvement.

video

Alternative Intervention Models envisions an educational system transformed at its core to recognize the value of “heART Education”: educating the hearts of youth and instilling emotional literacy through training in the arts. Education is a journey of self exploration as well as an exploration of our relationship to the world around us.

Through the process of heART education we help youth examine their purpose and relevance in life. We believe that the most powerful and most effective way to positively effect the minds of youth is to first reach them via the heart with art being the most effective tool. In a time of tremendous pain and struggle globally, it is through the study of arts and the artist that we learn our humanity and develop the skills necessary to heal our diverse communities emotionally while uniting them around shared experiences and values.

Leila on radio

Our Core Values

Education – a lifelong process of developing individuals technically, emotionally, physically, spiritually and otherwise to reach their full
potential.

Love – the most powerful force in life, the catalyst of all of our work
and art.

Creativity – a character trait with which we are all born; we believe we are all called to express our unique creativity.

Respect – being aware of and valuing the diversity of other individuals, other cultures, other ways of life.

Empathy – the arts are a tool that help us understand and relate to each other; heART education teaches greater empathy.

Community – it takes a village to raise a child; we live in a global village and are responsible for modeling the best examples for the youth.

Accountability – through difficult and controversial conversations using the arts, we help each other become accountable for ourselves and each other.

SKIM performs

1) Artist Intervention – in our Artist intervention programs we hold assemblies at elementary schools, high school, and colleges designed for the specific audiences at these various locations based on the issues that they need to address in their communities. We also operate Mic Sessions workshops at juvenile facilities, community centers, prisons, group homes, and other locations. Artist educators, a diverse selection of music artists perform at assemblies and at Mic Sessions workshops, and focus on unifying members of these various communities using music to breakdown barriers and open lines of communication and freedom of self-expression.

2) Dance Intervention – Karina Smirnoff heads up our Dance Intervention program, working with youth who find dance and movement as their chosen form of artistic self-expression. This program teaches consistency, dedication, attention to detail, and healthy physical and emotional lifestyle.

3) Athletic Intervention – AIM’s Athletic Intervention programs currently include basketball, yoga, and fitness training. Ahmad Clayton directs our Athletic Intervention program, bringing a unique form of basketball training to at-risk youth that focuses on providing a high quality alternative option to high cost athletic after school programs.

AIM’s Athletic Intervention programs help youth grow technically, emotionally, and physically while instilling values such as teamwork, strength, healthy-diet, non-violence, positive work ethic, and good sportsmanship.

4) Acting Intervention – AIM’s Acting Intervention program features guest lectures and workshops from highly experienced film industry professionals that train actors/actresses as artists in every facet of the film entertainment business. Focused mostly on aspiring teenage and young adult actors/actresses, the Acting Intervention program provides mentors, skill training, and career guidance. One of the major goals is to engage these youth and help them learn to tell their narrative and their communities narrative through their work.

5) Media Intervention – AIM’s Media Intervention program provides education in traditional media and new media technology, teaching youth about the resources that are accessible to them within and outside of their communities. We show youth how to effectively communicate on a local and global level using new media and a host of collaborative methods made available via the internet and related technologies.

AIM Website

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Michael Lindell’s MyPillow and The Lindell Foundation

Michael J. Lindell Inventor of My Pillow and Founder of the Lindell Foundation

Talks to us about his special pillow and about his foundation program to help CRACk and meth addicts kick the habit

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoyjHb1esqo]

At the GBK Gifting Suites for the American Music Awards I met the lovely Lisa Hill who does marketing, PR and co-founded the Lindell Foundation for MyPillow inventor Michael Lindell.

You may know Michael Lindell from his late night infomercials for his MyPillow product which he states is the best pillow you will ever own.

I was given a pillow to try out at the event and have been sleeping on it ever since. I did not like it straight out of the package.. I like slim no support pillows and MyPillow is thick and actually when you first get it, it is lumpy. I has a bunch of different sizes of foam in it and you can feel them.

I was convinced I would not like this at all. The first night I slept with it I did not wake up through the night and even though it was different than any other pillow I was using, I did not have a crick in my neck either, upon waking.

MyPillow Michael Lindell and JW NajarianI have since really taken to this pillow and now own two of them.

At the GBK Oscar event Micheal was there and I got a chance to interview him about the pillow and about his well known addiction to crack and meth (speed).

This is an addiction that is known to be very rough on a person and very very hard to beat, but Michael did and is now building the fastest growing company in America.

Michael is also giving back. He is using monies from the sales of MyPillow to fund his foundation that will, at no charge, reach the addicts that before, were considered unreachable and help them not only beat their addiction, but will help them recover and in many cases give them jobs so they can move back up in society.

MyPillow is built in the USA and is not sold in stores… Michael wants to control the quality of the product and give the best possible customer service available to the owners of this pillow.

Michael is serious about helping people and the pillow….

Micheal it was wonderful meeting and talking to you. I look forward to the programs you are talking about creating and I love the pillow. – JW

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My Pillow

Founded in 2004 by Michael J. Lindell, MyPillow is one of the top 10 fastest growing companies in the USA. An advocate for American Made product and ambassador for creating jobs in America, the company manufacture “the worlds most comfortable pillow’. Promoting health, comfort and durability, MyPillow is renowned for owning the only US paten in the category. A philanthropist at heart, Michael J. Lindell recently founded The Lindell Foundation to ‘reach the unreachable’ and continue his thrive towards an addiction free society. For more information please visit: www.mypillow.com

Michael J. Lindell

Over the past several years, Michael J. Lindellhas become a household name, and now with a newly launched infomercial, he is one of the most watched persons in America. Born and raised in Minnesota, Michael has been an entrepreneur all of his life. His creativity and driving passion to find success helped him conquer addictions, bankruptcy and several near death experiences to develop the life-changing product that became MyPillow. His extraordinary life story of recovery and perseverance inspires everyone who hears it and has attracted the attention of movie producers and writers from Hollywood. He has also started work on a memoir to share is story and inspire others for success.

Mike recently created his own television show called “The Mike Lindell Show”. Mike’s goal for the show is to help people change their lives by sharing personal, inspirational experiences from the heart and bringing on guests from around the country to do the same. His honesty and candor is refreshing at a time when the population is seeking authenticity.

Mike began his quest to create “the world’s most comfortable pillow” eight years ago when he was having difficulties in his life including not being able to sleep. He recalled the comfort he found in his pillow in his youth and set out to find this same comfort in his adult life. After years of research of both pillows and sleep disorders and experimentation with fill and fabrics, he combined health, comfort and durability to create one of the only patented pillows made here in the USA. He shared it with two of our country’s top neurologists who specialized in sleep disorders. They tested it and found that MyPillow properly supported the vertebrae which led to greater amounts of REM sleep and significantly better overall rest for the body. MyPillow now has thousands of personal and medical/professional testimonials and endorsements.

Since the first pillow was made in Carver Minnesota, MyPillow has been invited to be part of the gift basket programs at the Academy Awards (Oscars), the ESPY Awards and the American Music Awards, making MyPillow “The Pillow to the Stars”.

The Lindell Foundation

Being a “life changer” at heart, Mr. Lindell is using his success to help change the lives of others.

His charitable contributions have included MyPillows for our Military as well as The Imus Ranch, a working cattle ranch for kids with cancer. Mike has also partnered with “Breaking Free” which helps victims of human trafficking by offering employment and assistance in returning to society.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GDLVz8btXEU]

At the heart of Mike’s passion is The Lindell Foundation, recently created to ‘reach the unreachable’, starting with those who are suffering with crack addition of the worst kind. He plans to open ‘free’ centers nationwide to support addicts both with recovery and mainstreaming into society and create an environment of hope in the lives of those seeking a better life free from addiction.

Mike’s commitment to create jobs here in the USA with an All American made product has become a reality in a overall unstable economy. The dream of owning your own business with a worthwhile product is alive and well here in homegrown Minnesota.

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

RevitaLash Showcases Eyelash Conditioner

RevitaLash products were showcased at the GBK Gifting Suites for the AMA’s Golden Globes and Oscars

Bree Maxwell of Athena Cosmetics talks to me about the incredible Revitalash product line

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYpjNc62BAo]
I got a chance to talk to Bree Maxwell of Athena Cosmetics about Revitalash Eyelash conditioner.

Bree claims that RevitaLash is the fastest working product on the market and that you can see real results in as little as 3 weeks.

I have seen Bree at several awards gifting suites and RevitaLash is always a big favorite with the celebrities.

If you are looking to try some of the RevitaLash products you can find them at RevitaLash®

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Revitalash productsRevitaLash®

The Story

It all began when a Doctor wanted to give his wife a very special gift.

RevitaLash® was developed by Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D. as a special gift for his wife, Gayle, while she was recovering from metastatic breast cancer treatments. Intensive chemotherapy had damaged Gayle’s once-beautiful eyelashes, leaving them fragile, sparse and thin. Based upon his knowledge and experience as a practicing ophthalmologist for over 25 years, Dr. Brinkenhoff believed that he could develop a formula that would give Gayle’s eyelashes the look of renewed health, strength and beauty.

After extensive research, Dr. Brinkenhoff, together with a talented team of cosmetic chemists, created a product that truly gave the beautiful look of renewed vitality to Gayle’s eyelashes. RevitaLash® was the perfect name for this amazing product!

Thus, an entirely new and unique cosmetic product was born; and a formula created originally for just one special lady has become a product available to men and women everywhere who want to have attractive, beautiful-looking eyelashes.

Often we feel helpless when someone we love is suffering. I am very fortunate, in my own small way, to have been able to help Gayle through her recovery. Watching her be excited about her beautiful looking eyelashes has been a real joy.

— Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D.

RevitaLash®

Products

RevitaLash® ADVANCED contains a proprietary blend of proven functional cosmetic ingredients pioneered by Athena Cosmetic Inc., including an infusion of powerful peptides and soothing botanicals, designed to both beautify and nourish the eyelashes. RevitaLash® ADVANCED is both dermatologist and ophthalmologist reviewed, non-allergenic and in a clinical study over 97% of users saw an improved appearance of their eyelashes in only 3 weeks!

Inspired by America’s #1 Eyelash Conditioner, Hair ADVANCED by RevitaLash® is a unique hair conditioner that fortifies and strengthens the hair so it appears thicker, fuller and healthier.  This remarkable hair bulking product enhances the appearance of fine, thin, fragile-looking hair in a matter of weeks. Packed with conditioning agents like Ginkgo Biloba, Ginseng Root, Swertia Japonica Extract, fruit extracts and wheat proteins, Hair ADVANCED by RevitaLash® is revitalizing and very easy to use. All you need is one or two pumps massaged into areas where you want your hair to appear thicker and fuller.

Beautifully shaped eyebrows are now easier to achieve than ever before with RevitaBrow®.  Utilizing the power of peptides and botanicals to strengthen, condition and nourish the eyebrows along with advanced technology, RevitaBrow® will help you achieve a more polished look by creating thicker and fuller appearing eyebrows.  When applied daily on a clean brow, you should start to see healthier looking brows within weeks!

Athena Cosmetics

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. is committed to the belief that it’s continuing business success is built upon the manufacture and sale of safe, reliable, quality products, combined with uncompromising integrity and the spirit of philanthropy. As a company, we embrace and pass these values on to our customers, employees and partners.

Integrity

Our goal is to succeed in the marketplace by having the integrity to produce safe, top quality products that deliver a real benefit to our customers. Athena Cosmetics, Inc. has always taken great care to comply with all laws, and to uphold the values and principles that have been the hallmark of its company from its inception. We are devoted to the solid ethical business principles of honesty and hard work.

Quality

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. seeks the highest quality in research, information, business partners and people. We produce excellent products that are safe for the public  and which deliver high quality and reliability to our valued customers. We accept nothing less.

Philanthropy

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. has made philanthropy a cornerstone of its business profile. We believe in giving back to the community, as it is this care belief which inspired the creation of our company. All of our employees and staff are dedicated examples of this philosophy. Athena Cosmetics, Inc. is proud and honored to devote time, energy and resources to the goal of fighting breast cancer both by public education programs and by the contribution of time, energy and financial resources to the ultimate goal of finding a cure for this epidemic disease. Our philanthropic activities have focused on several organizations dedicated to breast cancer community across the country. Click Here to find out more information and to see how you can help!!!

Athena Cosmetics, Inc. is proud to be a part of the cosmetic business community and will continually strive to achieve the highest goals in all our endeavors.

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

Sugar Ray Leonard Helps Knock Out Juvenile Diabetes

Sugar Ray Leonard talks to us about his new SRL Foundation to help and find a cure for children who suffer from diabetes.

The Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation to help find a cure for juvenile diabetes, set up a booth at GBK Gifting suites for the Oscars 2012 and Sugar Ray came by with his family to check it all out.
[youtube=www.youtube.com/watch?v=9HILdg3KDtc]

We visited his booth and then interviewed Sugar Ray. I used to work for a Medtronic Minimed who make portable insulin pump for people with Type I diabetes and so I know that diabetes is already become an epidemic that needs our attention and kids are getting it at alarming rates.

Type II diabetes can often be taken care of with proper diet, exercise and sometimes, medicine, but Type I is a lifelong chronic disease, that is lethal if not treated and though treatment is effective for most it is not a cure.

Visit Sugar Ray Leonard’s website. I looks like he spends most of his time giving back to many great causes. Sugar Ray, thank you for your time and for all you do to help. – JW

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Sugar Ray Leonard Sugar Ray Leonard

From Wikipedia

Sugar Ray Leonard (born May 17, 1956) is an American retired professional boxer and occasional actor. He was named Ray Charles Leonard, after his mother’s favorite singer, Ray Charles. Leonard was the first boxer to earn more than $100 million in purses, won world titles in five weight divisions and defeated future fellow International Boxing Hall of Fame inductees Wilfred Benítez, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Durán and Marvin Hagler.[1][2] Leonard was named “Boxer of the Decade” for the 1980s.[3]

You can see samples of my work at http://www.DavidIlan.com.

logo sugar ray leonard foundation shSugar Ray Leonard Foundation

Sugar Ray Leonard has been the International Chairman of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation’s Walk for a Cure, for many years.

Sugar Ray and his wife Bernadette have founded the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation to help raise awareness, fund research and help find a cure to Juvenile Diabetes and child obesity.

Sugar Ray hosts a yearly Fight Night in Los Angeles to help Knock Out Diabetes. This year it will be held at the Santa Monica Pier on May 22nd, 2012.

It will be a star studded evening to raise funds and awareness of this awful disease that is harming our children.

book sugar-ray-leonard-the-big-fight 3dThe Big Fight

Sugar Ray Leonard’s Book The Big Fight: My Life In and Out of the Ring is Sugar Ray Leonard’s brutally honest and uplifting memoir reveals in intimate detail for the first time the complex man behind the boxer.

The Olympic hero, multi-championship winner, and beloved athlete waged his own personal battle with depression, rage, addiction, and greed.

In this unflinching and inspiring autobiography, the boxing legend faces his single greatest competitor: himself.

Coming from a tumultuous, impoverished household and a dangerous neighborhood on the outskirts of Washington, D.C., in the 1970s, Sugar Ray Leonard rose swiftly and skillfully through the ranks of amateur boxing-and eventually went on to win a gold medal in the 1976 Olympics. With an extremely ill father and no endorsement deals, Leonard decided to go pro.

The Big Fight takes readers behind the scenes of a notoriously corrupt sport and chronicles the evolution of a champion, as Leonard prepares for the greatest fights of his life-against Marvin Hagler, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, and Wilfred Benitez. At the same time Leonard fearlessly reveals his own contradictions and compulsions, his infidelity, and alcohol and cocaine abuse.

With honesty, humor, and hard-won perspective, Leonard comes to terms with both triumph and struggle-and presents a gripping portrait of remarkable strength, courage, and resilience, both in and out of the ring.

Daisy Rock Girl Guitars Supports Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation

LOS ANGELES, CA – March 27, 2012
Daisy Rock Girl Guitars, the original girl guitar company, proudly supports the Sugar Ray Leonard Foundation with the donation of a Wildwood Artist Acoustic-Electric Pink Burst guitar, featured at the 2012 Academy Awards Nominees and Presenters Celebrity Gift Lounge, hosted by GBK Productions. The guitar, sought by request of the George Lopez family, was signed by a wide variety of celebrities and will be auctioned to benefit the foundation’s research and awareness towards finding a cure for juvenile diabetes.

GBK Productions, the luxury lifestyle gift lounge and special events company, hosted the Annual Celebrity Gift Lounge late-February, honoring the 2012 Academy Awards Nominees and Presenters. Notable Hollywood celebrities were present and took part in signing the Daisy Rock guitar, including Emmy® Award-winning actor Hector Elizondo, Sasha Pieterse (Heroes, Pretty Little Liars), Iqbal Theba (Principal Figgins, Glee), Kate Flannery (Meredith Palmer, The Office), comedian Kevin Nealon, and many others.

Boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard shares his heart for those stricken by juvenile diabetes: “My wife Bernadette and I put [the foundation] together about two years ago because we were so touched by so many lives that diabetes has affected—especially the kids. We’re looking forward to the day that we eradicate diabetes, juvenile diabetes, from our innocent kids . . . just being of service is a wonderful feeling.” Of the donations, Leonard commented: “The memorabilia that we have gathered – gloves, an amazing guitar with names of superstars – and we’re just looking forward to raising a lot of money for a wonderful cause.”

Tish Ciravolo, President and Founder of Daisy Rock Girl Guitars commented: “Daisy Rock is so happy to be able to donate the Wildwood Artist Acoustic-Electric Pink Burst guitar to the Sugar Ray Leonard foundation which was requested by George Lopez and his family.  It is such an honor to see these awesome and entertaining celebrities taking a moment out of their very busy schedule at the Academy Awards to stop and sign our guitar.  Just look at who signed and how many signatures we got—SWEET!”

www.SugarRayLeonard.com

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Thanks to GBK Events – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Filter 2Go Green Personal Portable Water Filter With Heart

Filter 2Go, Is Ultra Green Conscious, Personal, Portable Water Filter that can last for 400 bottles of water

Or approximately 3 months of normal use.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r8HtxJUOS0]

Bottled water is expensive and not always available. Filter 2Go may be the solution for you.

Biodegradible and BPA free plastic bottles with a replaceable filter that filters out chlorine, bad tastes and odors from the water and they have one that you can use with salt water and river or lake water too.

Filter 2Go also works with charities that help third world countries with water issues.

You can custom brand your bottles, they have shower heads that get rid of chlorine.

If you want more information get in touch with Mark Firestone at 310-203-8280. – JW

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Filter 2GOFilter 2Go

Filter 2GO is dedicated to cleaner, better-tasting water utilizing individual water purification products.

There environment-friendly personal water filter bottles, shower head filters, and other products are designed to purify water as it is used and to protect our environment from the billions of disposable water bottles that end up in our landfills.

There products are made from recycled plastic water bottles and are bio-degradable, BPA and contaminant free.

Filter 2GO
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

Thousands of Raped and Abused Become Beautiful Points With Purpose

Celebrity Artist David Ilad Helps Survivors of Rape, Sexual Abuse and Incest

While at the GBK Gifting suites for the American Music Awards we met celebrity artist David Ilad who uses dots to draw wonderful portraits and he has decided to make each dot of his current work stand for each victim that he meets or that signs up on his site “Points with Purpose“, anonymously, as survivors of rape, sexual abuse and Incest.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOvcZ0jyQ8M]

As a survivor of sexual abuse myself, I can tell you first hand, how powerful it is to see David’s beautiful portrait, made of thousands of dots, when you realize that each dot is representing men and women who suffered some type of sexual abuse.

I am proud to have one of those dots represent me and as I read some of the stories on David’s website all I could think of was how great it was to have a place, an event that brings so many together to finally talk about and sometimes, for the first time, share their feelings of guilt, grief and growth.

I thank David for taking a moment to talk with us about his project and especially for the gift he is giving with his work. – JW

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david ilan David Ilan

David’s celebrity drawing career started over 10 years ago when Jerry Seinfeld saw some of his drawings.

Until that point he had been drawing mostly models and didn’t have much of a portfolio.

Life took a major turn when David was commissioned to draw the entire cast of Seinfeld since at the time it was one of the hottest shows on television. From then on it was like life was put into high speed.

David Ilan has been fortunate to have some of the biggest celebrities pose for him throughout the years. Most of the David’s drawings have been for the celebrities’ private use but some have been created for other reasons. For example, one was made for an auction benefiting the American Cancer Society.

In 2007, David created the concept of “1 Dot = 1 Person” to bring more meaning to his art. Every dot he places on his canvas now represents a real person, and every David Ilan project has a charitable wing. He called his first project (which is still running) Points With Purpose. This project gives a voice to the survivors of rape or sexual abuse.

David has created several portraits using the “1 Dot = 1 Person” concept. People from more than 180 countries have dots placed in their honor in his portraits, including many A-list celebrities. For example, in the portrait he is creating for Special Olympics Southern California, David has placed dots for Scarlett Johansson, Danny DeVito, David Beckham, and Vanessa Williams, just to name a few.

In 2008, David embarked on the Presidential Portrait of Barack Obama, a project that was approved by Obama’s Visual Arts Committee. The Obama Portrait was sponsored by American Airlines and attracted the attention of the Smithsonian museum. It was organized in collaboration with Ken Kragen (who was responsible for “We Are The World” and “Hands Across America”).

Recently David was commissioned by the Jackson Family to do the Michael Jackson Tribute Portrait where 1 Dot – 1 Fan.

You can see samples of my work at http://www.DavidIlan.com.

Points With Purpose

david ilan portrait

From thousands of tragic events, a beautiful drawing is born. My name is David Ilan and I am a celebrity artist. When celebrities pose for me, I create a drawings of them using only dots, a technique called pointillism. For the first time in 10 years I am creating a non-celebrity drawing for a project that is very close to my heart. This project, named Points with Purpose, gives my dots a greater meaning by associating each dot with a real person who has been raped or sexually abused.

If you have been raped or sexually abused you can join the project here (It’s free), giving your real name or an alias, and have the option of sharing your story. There is also a place in the drawing for people who want to support survivors. I add one dot for every person who joins until the drawing is complete. The final drawing will be of a woman looking confident, proud and beautiful. By joining the project, thousands of people with a shared tragic experience will work together to form a work of art meant to show others who go through similar experiences that they too can feel confident, proud and beautiful again.

Every person involved will have a dot drawn to honor them.
Up close we see individuals with a story.
From far we see a woman who has overcome and grown.

www.PointsWithPurpose.com

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Centerville Pie Co. Giving the Disabled Fuller Lives

Centerville Pie Company’s Chicken Pie was voted one of Oprah’s Favorite Things

But that is only half the story.

Centerville Pie Co. supports Cape Abilities a non profit that helps people that are mentally and/or physically disabled.

Centerville Pie Company serves up their famous pies at GBK Gifting Suite for the Golden Globes.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZiYfOr8wcI]
Centerville Pie Company started by hiring 5 mentally disabled workers from Cape Abilities Center and now employs over 45 disabled workers.

It is so great to see companies like this working hard to do the good in the world and make a living putting out exceptional products.

Unemployment is at all time highs for everyone and especially for this sector of the workforce so we thank you Laurie and Kristin for all you do.

Yes, I tasted the the famous chicken pie… Mmmmmm. Full of great tasting chicken and the fixins.  Have one sent to you, you have to try this wonderful treat. – JW

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logo centerville Pie Co shCenterville Pie Company

The Centerville Pie Company Inc.  is a Massachusetts-based pie company located on Cape Cod. Founded in 2009 by long-time friends Laurie Bowen and Kristin Broadley (“The Pie Ladies”), the local pie shop was thrust into the national spotlight shortly after they opened their doors when they were discovered by Oprah Winfrey.  Pies are available at the Restaurant or Pie Shop, located in Centerville, MA.  Shipping of our Chicken Pie will resume the week of September 12, 2011.  Our Shopping Cart is now up and running!

Cape Abilities

Cape Abilities enjoys a special working relationship with Centerville Pie Company, a local business that achieved national recognition after television host Oprah Winfrey got a taste of their pie in 2009 during a visit to Cape Cod for Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s funeral.

The increase in orders following that brush with fame meant sudden growth for the pie company, and owners Kristin Broadley and Laurie Bowen found their solution at Cape Abilities, a nonprofit they had long supported. They established a Pie Kitchen at Cape Abilities in Hyannis in October, 2009, which employs people with disabilities who help make the famous pies.

In 2010, Centerville Pie Company Inc. expanded its production by partnering with Cape Abilities, a nearby non-profit organization that supports people with disabilities on Cape Cod, helping them with housing, transportation and employment. Centerville Pie Company now handles much of its pie-making operations from the Cape Abilities location and employs over 40 disabled adults. The company also supports Cape Abilities by donating a portion of their proceeds to the non-profit.

Laurie and Kristin
Both Laurie and Kristin come from diverse culinary backgrounds. Laurie, a native Cape Codder, has worked in the restaurant business on the Cape for over 25 years, holding every job in the kitchen, from line chef to executive chef at a host of local restaurants (Laurie took a short break from the restaurant business to serve as a deputy sheriff in Barnstable County for several years). Kristin, a self-proclaimed Cape Cod “Washashore”, moved to the Cape as a teenager. Kristin is a professionally trained chef, holding a degree in culinary arts from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI. While cooking has always been her passion, prior to opening Centerville Pie Company with Laurie, Kristin spent 16 years as a banker while she raised her son.

Realizing a Dream

The decision to open Centerville Pie Company was born from demand. For years, Laurie cooked her signature chicken pie for friends and family. After awhile the demand became so great that she a Kristin decided to make a business of it. In March 2009, they followed the dream they both shared to own and operate their own restaurant, and opened the doors to The Centerville Pie Company.

Centerville Pie Company Website
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

Thomas Jane – Star of “Hung” Supports Children of the Night

Thomas Jane Who Plays a Male Escort on the HBO Hit Show “Hung”

Talks to us about his support of Children of the Night. A program that helps teenage prostitutes get off the street.

Thomas Jane talks about support of Children of the Night.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Um6v8PX2-o]

Thomas was at the GBK Gifting Suites for the Golden Globes and took a minute to talk to us about Children of the Night, which he supports and helps out.

Thomas was there with his daughter who was having a great time putting lotion on her dad’s face during the whole interview. – JW

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Thomas JaneThomas Jane

From IMDB

Thomas Jane (born Thomas Elliott III;[1] February 22, 1969) is an American actor known for his roles in the 1999 film Deep Blue Sea, the 2001 TV film 61*, the 2004 film The Punisher and the 2007 Stephen King adaptation The Mist. He also starred in the HBO comedy-drama series Hung.

Early life

Jane was born in Baltimore, Maryland, the son of Cynthia, an antiques dealer, and Michael Elliott, a biogenetic engineer.[1][2] In 1987, he graduated from Thomas Sprigg Wootton High School in Montgomery County, Maryland.

At age 18, Jane relocated to Hollywood to pursue an acting career. He was initially homeless and lived out of his car.[3] Regarding his time as a busker, Jane has noted “I had two songs in my repertoire that I hammered to death — ‘Hey Joe‘ and ‘Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door‘….People used to pelt me with change just to shut me up.”[4]

Career

Jane began his acting career with the Telugu film Padamati Sandhya Ragam (1986), directed by Jandhyala, a renowned filmmaker in Telugu Cinema. His early roles included Zeph in Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992). He had supporting roles in several high profile films, including The Crow: City of Angels (1996), Boogie Nights (1997), The Thin Red Line (1998), Thursday (1998) and Magnolia (1999). After receiving critical acclaim as baseball player Mickey Mantle in 61*, Jane began receiving leading roles such as that of Andre Stander in the 2003 South African film, Stander for which he gained further critical acclaim.

pic thomas jane hungJane, director Jonathan Hensleigh and Avi Arad have said in many interviews that Jane was the first and only actor to be asked to play the title role in the 2004 movie The Punisher. Jane initially turned down the role twice, as he did not have much interest in the superhero genre. Jane said that when they asked him the second time to play the Punisher it was Tim Bradstreet‘s artwork of the Punisher that piqued his interest. After finding out that the character was not a traditional superhero, but more of an anti-hero and a vigilante crime fighter, he accepted.[5][6] He read as many Punisher comics as he could find and quickly became a fan. Jane trained for 6 or 7 months with Navy SEALs and gained more than twenty pounds of muscle for the part.[7]

In addition to starring in the movie he contributed his voice to The Punisher and the Gun video games. He also co-owns RAW, an entertainment company he runs along with Steve Niles and Tim Bradstreet. RAW Studios, the company’s comic book division, has released Bad Planet (written by Jane) through Image Comics. Jane would become a spokesperson for Steve Niles and in became the cover model for comic book character Cal McDonald in 2006, as depicted by their partner Bradstreet.

In addition to his screen work, Jane has appeared several times on stage, and received strong critical reviews as Tom in Tennessee WilliamsThe Glass Menagerie, and as Chris in Arthur Miller‘s All My Sons. He has also portrayed a fictionalized version himself in the Fox television show Arrested Development in which the show’s characters have not heard of him, and do not recognize him as the star actor that he is. In 2005, Marvel released The Punisher video game. The video game’s storyline is compiled with different situations and enemies from the Punisher comics, and a character based upon Jigsaw also appeared in the 2005 Punisher video game but with an origin that ties directly into the 2004 Punisher film.

Children of the Night

Mission Statement

Children of the Night is a privately funded non-profit organization established in 1979 and dedicated to rescuing America’s children from the ravages of prostitution.

Children of the Night

Its program has proven so effective that Children of the Night is in demand to assist other agencies across the country and around the world to develop similar programs.

Program Description

The Children of the Night home is open to child prostitutes throughout the United States, and the Children of the Night hotline is ready and able to rescue these children 24 hours a day. We provide taxi/airline transportation nationwide for America’s child prostitutes who wish to escape prostitution and live in our home.

Our hotline staff works closely with law enforcement to rescue children from vile, dominating pimps.

Our home features an on-site school and college placement program. After youngsters complete our rigorous and comprehensive program of academic and life-skills education, caseworkers are available to provide ongoing case management to hundreds of graduates.

In 2011, Dr. Lois Lee, Founder & President of Children of the Night, created “Children of the Night With Out Walls” (WOW) introducing programs from the Children of the Night shelter/home to underfunded and undeveloped shelters and their clients throughout America. WOW is a cost effective means of providing resources to America’s teens who are forced to live on the streets.

WOW will leave a permanent and indelible mark on the standard of care for adolescents who are forced to live outside of their natural homes.

Children of the Night trained, skilled, expert staff provides shelters across the nation sophisticated case management, educational programs, legal services, professional volunteers, fundraising expertise and in-kind donations.

WOW offers youth living on the streets of our cities access to birth certificates, school records, social security cards, government issued photo identification, transportation to critical social services, case management, résumé preparation, job placement, parenting support, educational services including academic assessments, preparation, tutoring and support services to test for the GED (General Education Degree). Children of the Night offers innovative math and reading programs, a patented keyboarding program (Keyboarders Gone Ballistic), life skills curriculum, a parenting class designed specifically for teen moms and dads, access to college and funding for college books and school supplies.

Children and young people NO LONGER have to be under 18 years of age
to receive our comprehensive social services.

We are Children of the Night WOW!

Children of the Night continues to lead the revolution of real life changing
services for teens forced to live outside of their homes.

To access “WOW” or any of our services
Contact our 24 hour nationwide toll free hotline at 1-800-551-1300.

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Rico Rodriquez – Manny From Modern Family Supports Head Start

Rico Rodriquez Who Plays Manny on the Hit Show “Modern Family” Supports Head Start Program

Rico and his sister Raini have started the Raini and Rico Foundation to help support the Head Start Program. Rico was a Head Start Kid and really wants to make sure that program does not loose funding.

Rico rodriquez talks to us about the fun he has on his hit show and how he want to support the Head Start Program.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxAoGgSe-PE]

Rico who plays Manny on “Modern Family” was so fun to talk to. He is a neat kid who loves what he does and really cares about helping others.

Rico and his sister Raini, also an actress in “Paul Blart Mall Cop” and “Austin and Ally” TV Series, have supported many causes and are constantly helping when and where they can.

Thanks for the cool handshake Rico.- JW

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Rico RodriquezRico rodriquez

Rico Rodriguez was born in College Station, Texas, and from birth through his young boyhood was extremely shy. Little did he know how drastically his life would change.

In 2005, at the age of six, Rico made the move from Texas to Los Angeles, California with his mom and sister to support his sister’s dream of becoming an actress. After one year of watching his sister having fun and success, Rico enrolled in acting classes and soon started making a name for himself.

Rico booked his first role in the video How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Next came the role of Chanchito in the film Epic Movie, a super fun role as the kid janitor in the soon to be released Opposite Day, and another great part — including flying cake — in the upcoming The No-Sit List. His television credits include co-starring as Young Guillermo in Jimmy Kimmel Live, Cory in the House, ER, ‘Til Death, iCarly, Nip/Tuck, Surviving Suburbia and NCIS. He has also has been seen in commercials for Roundtable Pizza, Time Warner Cable, Dodge, Walmart, BlueCross, Chrysler and AT&T.

Rico is grateful to be living his dream and has a very bright future.

Head Start

The Head Start Program is a program of the United States Department of Health and Human Services that provides comprehensive education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families.

Launched in 1965[1] by its creator and first director Jule Sugarman, Head Start was originally conceived as a catch-up summer school program that would teach low-income children in a few weeks what they needed to know to start kindergarten. Experience showed that six weeks of preschool couldn’t make up for five years of poverty. The Head Start Act of 1981[2] expanded the program.[3] The program was further revised when it was reauthorized in December, 2007. Head Start is one of the longest-running programs to address systemic poverty in the United States. As of late 2005, more than 22 million pre-school aged children had participated.

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

AquaHydrate9 a New Mineral, Electrolytes and Alkaline Balanced Water

AquaHydrate9 a New Mineral, Electrolytes and Alkaline Balanced Water

Mark Wahlberg and Sean Combs are on the board of this company that produces high grade bottled water that contains everything you need and nothing you don’t.

AquaHydrate9 shows off their new water product at GBK Gifting Suite for the Golden Globes.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIRRnRQhjPE]

One of the most popular tables at the GBK Gifting Suite was the AquaHydrate9 table where celebrities got a chance to sample the taste of this great tasting water.

Looks like the product has almost everything you want and none of the things you don’t for a reasonable price.

I only drink bottled water and I believe there is a difference and AquaHydrate tasted great and will go to the top of one of my favorites. – JW

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aquahydrate bottle

AquaHydrate 9

AquaHydrate is made through a proprietary, multi-step process in which water is purified to rigorous standards, raised

to an alkaline pH of 9+, and then supplemented with electrolytes and minerals. AquaHydrate is the only bottled water on the market with this unique combination of purity, electrolytes, minerals and alkalinity.

Elite athletes such as Brian MacKenzie, Ironman contender and creator of Crossfit Endurance training, and Robbie Davis, trainer of NBA and Olympic champions, believe that AquaHydrate is important to their rigorous training regimens. Likewise, the USA Men’s and Women’s Water Polo Teams have chosen AquaHydrate as their sports beverage of choice as they train for the 2012 Summer Olympics, where they are expected to be leading medal contenders.

Professional athletes also rely on AquaHydrate. Among them: New England Patriot and NFL Pro-Bowler Vince Wilfork, professional women’s basketball player and two-time Olympic gold medalist, Delisha Milton-Jones, and golf legend Jack Nicklaus. Actor/producer Mark Wahlberg relied on AquaHydrate to stay super-fit for physically demanding roles such as boxer Micky Ward in the award-winning movie, “The Fighter.”

AQUAHYDRATE’S PURITY

aquahydrate JW Najarian and BJ StewartWhile many brands meet minimal industry standards, AquaHydrate exceeds all industry standards through its use of reverse osmosis plus its additional proprietary filtration process.

AQUAHYDRATE’S MINERALS

Every human being loses minerals through sweat, tears, body secretions, and literally from the act of breathing. But highly intense athletes have special dietary needs. They are literally sweating out minerals that need to be replaced.

AquaHydrate provides trace minerals from Trace Minerals Research® – a renowned leader in the natural foods market for over 35 years. AquaHydrate is the only commercially available bottled water with minerals from Trace Minerals Research®.

AQUAHYDRATE’S ALKALINE PH

The pH of AquaHydrate is raised to 9+, putting it squarely in the alkaline range. The better water tastes, the more of it you are likely to drink. Many people find that they can drink more AquaHydrate because of its smooth feel to the palette.

Athletes are challenged to drink enough water to stay hydrated because many simply don’t like the taste of most water. And hydration may be the single most critical factor in sports performance. According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, “The simple truth is that no other nutritional intervention comes close to providing the performance-enhancing effects of staying well hydrated.”

AquaHydrate’s Site
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

GWear All-American, Recycled Couture Embodies Fabulous Fashion

GWear, Is Ultra Green Conscious, Very Hip, Super Stylish and Made in America.

GWear showcases their unique products at GBK Gifting Suite for the Golden Globes.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRQ6vhgecuo]

So much talk about the environment, jobs, America loosing manufacturing to cheaper overseas markets. GWear proves all that wrong.

GWear is manufactured in America, is environmentally super conscious and is a great product that is growing fast. GWear is also cause minded and is working to prosper while helping give back to those in need.

Check out their site as the clothes are very cute… I love the scarves too. GWear thank you for doing it with passion, flair and feeling – JW

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GWear

Logo G WearG Wear was created in 2008 by a local Ft. Worth, Texas designer, Stanley Jackson. The inspiration for G Wear began when Stanley’s daughter, Malerie, then only 4 years old, gave him a tee shirt onto which she had sewn a flowered heart appliqué. Stanley, being a proud father, impressed with his daughter’s creative design at such a young age, decided to wear the shirt out and about to showcase his daughter’s talent.

GWear Clothing

After receiving compliments on the shirt and questions about where he got it, Stanley decided he would design and create tee shirts with appliqués, similar to what Malerie had created. Hence, G Wear was born! In an effort to move forward with his vision, Stanley converted part of his daughter’s bedroom into a sewing room and designed a few prototype tee shirts with fabric appliqués.

Anxious to get his first designs completed, and out to the public, Stanley met with his long time friend, Eddie, who offered to display his shirts at the athletic store that he owned in Ft. Worth. The shirts flew off the shelf with questions coming daily as to when there would be more available. With Eddie’s help to initially fund the company, Stanley began to produce more designs and soon began marketing them to high-end specialty clothing stores and boutiques. The shirts were an instant hit, and thus “G Wear by Stanley” (the original G Wear line), was successfully launched.

The name “G Wear” came from Stanley’s strong commitment to the environment and desire to produce a “green” product. Thus, all G Wear shirts are 100% cotton and incorporate appliqués cut from recycled tee shirts purchased at local thrift stores. All G Wear shirts are cut, glued and sewn by hand making each shirt truly unique and one-of-a-kind. The G Wear “trademark” is the three stripes on the sleeves of all our shirts and other products we produce. Only authentic G Wear products bear this trademark three stripe symbol.

Gwear Mike Wilson Crystal JW Najarian The company has grown tremendously over the past several years. Additional capital was added in 2011 allowing the G Wear brand to expand nationally. Thanks for all your support and we look forward to serving you always with great new G Wear designs!

NOTE: Mike Wilson of GWear was an Olympian on the 1980 gymnastics team with Bart Conner.

GWear Site
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

A 40 Proof Milk Mustache with Adult Chocolate Milk?

Adult Chocolate Milk is 40 Proof Good Tasting Fun

Got a chance to taste Adult Chocolate Milk at GBK Gifting Suite for the Golden Globes. This adult beverage is good. Please Drink your milk responsibly.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLMVAw747vE]

There are so many great products to see at the GBK Gifting Suites for the Golden Globes, but Adult Chocolate Milk is crazy good. Tastes great and I can think of hundreds of ways to use it.

Adult Chocolate Milk comes in this great bottle that harkens you back to the good old days of when milk was delivered to your door from the local dairy, but don’t let the bottle fool you. Although, you will want to gulp it down, getting a milk chocolate mustache.. you have to take it easy as this stuff is a serious 40 proof liqueur – JW

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adult chocolate milkAdult Chocolate Milk

Invented by adults who don’t want to grow up.

Just like mom, the original formulas for these drinks were discovered in the home kitchen of Tracy – one of the company’s founders.

After updating her Facebook status to “Tracy is enjoying some Adult Chocolate Milk”, friends began inquiring about the recipe and where they could get it.

adult chocolate milk

Among the many thirsty inquirers was Nikki, who reunited with Tracy on Facebook after 18 years. When Nikki tasted Tracy’s recipe, she turned to her and said, “You need to bottle this stuff!” With Nikki’s experience in management and manufacturing and Tracy’s connections, that’s exactly what they did.

Check out this drink recipe:

Chocomintini

• 1 oz Adult Chocolate Milk
• 1/4 oz Peppermint Schnapps
• 1/4 oz Dark Creme de Menthe
• 1 oz Vanilla Vodka.Mix ingredients.

Serve in a chocolate syrup-lined martini glass with crushed candy cane rim or with a peppermint patty garnish. For a nice twist, you can also serve it as a frozen drink with ice, heavy cream and chocolate syrup.

Adult Chocolate Milk Site
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Some Photos by Stacia Gates

Christopher McDonald – Helping Victims of Child Abuse

Christopher McDonald of Harry’s Law and Boardwalk Empire talks about Helping Kids and Cancer Research

Christopher McDonald talks with us about his current projects and about the causes he supports helping children
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFBD03iWm4o]

Veteran Actor Christopher McDonald takes a minute out of working with vendors at the GBK Gifting Suites to talk to us about his new shows and especially the two great causes he supports.

We first met Christopher at the Night of 100 Stars at the Beverly Hills Hotel for Oscars 2011. Christopher was fun, warm, witty and just a real nice guy. Thank you again Chris for your time and for all you do to help.- JW

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Christopher McDonaldChristopher McDonald

Christopher McDonald, has acted in 85 films and numerous television and theater productions. He was born in New York City, one of seven children.
He actually grew up in Romulus, a small town in upstate New York, where his father was the high school principal and musical director.
He first attended undergraduate school at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York, and later studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, and the Stella Adler Acting Conservatory in New York.
Chris has appeared in such films as Grease 2 (1982), Dutch (1991), Thelma & Louise (1991) and Quiz Show (1994). He is often recognized as golf pro Shooter McGavin from Happy Gilmore (1996). “Harry’s Law” (2011)

I wanted to list the over 159 Titles Chris has on his IMDB page, you should check it out for yourself. Christopher’s resume and career in entertainment is simply incredible.

Christopher did not mention the particular causes by name so I choose a couple of great organizations to share with you – JW

Cheryl Ladd & John O’Hurley Golf Classic

For more information on the event, please visit www.childhelp.org/iwgolf.

Childhelp has brought the light of hope and healing into the lives of countless children for over 50 years. CEO and Co-Founder Sara O’Meara and President and Co-Founder Yvonne Fedderson started Childhelp in 1959, establishing it as a leading national non-profit organization dedicated to helping victims of child abuse and neglect and at-risk children. Childhelp’s approach focuses on advocacy, prevention, treatment and community outreach.

The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline, 1-800-4-A-CHILD®, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and receives calls from throughout the United States, Canada, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Guam. Childhelp’s programs and services also include residential treatment services; children’s advocacy centers; therapeutic foster care; group homes and child abuse prevention, education and training. Childhelp also created the Childhelp National Day of Hope®, held each April during National Child Abuse Prevention Month that mobilizes people across America to join the fight against child abuse.

American Association for cancer research

The mission of the AACR is to prevent and cure cancer through research, education, communication, and collaboration. Through its programs and services, the AACR fosters research in cancer and related biomedical science; accelerates the dissemination of new research findings among scientists and others dedicated to the conquest of cancer; promotes science education and training; and advances the understanding of cancer etiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment throughout the world.

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Peter Weller Education Is Key at GBK Productions Gift Suite for the Oscars 2011

Peter Weller Actor / Director / Writer / Lecturer

Peter Weller (Robo Cop) Talks to us about the importance of education for our nation.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDGyXajsQRs]

It was a great treat to see Peter at this event. I am a big fan of Robo Cop, Odyssey and Dexter.  I also hear Peter is up for a part in a new Star Trek Adventure? Very Nice….

When I saw Peter I said “Great to see your still alive… ” and Peter looked at me like I had just lost my mind. I was talking about him being killed on Dexter and I believe he thought I was talking about his real demise…

Sorry Peter, my wife told me I was not funny. Great interview, however and Peter tells it like it is about childhood education. It really is the cornerstone and key to this nations survival nationally and globally.

Thanks Peter. – JW

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Peter WellerPeter Weller

From Wikipedia

Peter Frederick Weller (born June 24, 1947) is an American film and stage actor, director and lecturer.

He is best known for his roles as the title character in the first two RoboCop films and Buckaroo Banzai in the cult classic The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension. He received an Academy Award nomination for his direction for the 1993 short Partners, in which he also acted. He also hosted the show Engineering an Empire on the History Channel. He played Stan Liddy in the 5th season of the Showtime original series Dexter.

Weller’s stage career began in the 1970s with appearances on Broadway in Full Circle, directed by Otto Preminger, and Summer Brave, William Inge‘s rewrite of his play Picnic. About this time, he became a member of the famed Actors Studio.[4]

On the set of Firstborn, Corey Haim‘s first day of shooting was with Weller, and he went up to compliment the older actor on his performance. Weller collared Haim, throwing him up against a wall viciously warning him not to speak to him after a take, and it took three assistants to separate them. Haim later admitted that he was terrified by the experience.[5]

He has appeared in more than 50 films and television series, including turns as the title characters in the cult classic The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension, and blockbuster hits RoboCop and RoboCop 2.[6] He has also appeared in such critically acclaimed films as Woody Allen‘s Mighty Aphrodite, the Oliver Stone-produced The New Age and Naked Lunch. In a 1977 episode of the television series Lou Grant, he plays Oberster SA-Führer Donald Sterner/Stryker, a tragically disillusioned Jewish-American Neo-Nazi leader who later committed suicide off-screen with his Colt 45 near the end of the episode when his heritage was discovered.

In 1995, he appeared in Screamers, a science-fiction film based on the short story “Second Variety” by Philip K. Dick and directed by Christian Duguay. Duguay would later direct Weller in the 2005–2007 television series Engineering an Empire for the History Channel, which Weller hosted.

On television, he played the shuttle captain in the short-lived series Odyssey 5 and made guest appearances as Terran supremacist John Frederick Paxton in the Star Trek: Enterprise episodes “Demons“, “Terra Prime” and in Fringe as the character Alistair Peck.

Weller has also directed various projects for television, including episodes of Homicide: Life on the Street, Monk and three episodes of the aforementioned Odyssey 5. He directed a 1997 adaptation of Elmore Leonard‘s Gold Coast starring David Caruso and Marg Helgenberger after previously starring in a version of Leonard’s thriller Cat Chaser. He directed Episode 3 of Season 4, titled “Dorylus” (air date 9/20/11), of the series Sons of Anarchy.

Weller is a contributor to the History Channel in several productions, credited as “Peter Weller, Syracuse University“, where he is an adjunct faculty member. He is a graduate student in art history at UCLA, focusing on the Italian Renaissance. Weller also hosts the series Engineering an Empire for the network.

In 2005, Weller co-starred as the Captain in a made-for-television remake of The Poseidon Adventure.

In 2006, Weller joined the cast of 24 as terrorist collaborator Christopher Henderson.[7] Weller received a “cheer” in TV Guides “Cheers & Jeers” section for his performance. In December 2006, Weller starred as architect Frank Lloyd Wright at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre in Frank’s Home, a new play by Richard Nelson.

On January 15, 2010, Weller was seen in a teaser trailer for the companion documentary God of War: Unearthing the Legend that was featured in the game God of War III which Weller also hosted.[8]

On April 15, 2010, Weller guest-starred in an episode of the science fiction drama Fringe. Weller stars in a guest role on the Showtime original series Dexter.[9] Weller also had a guest appearance in the December 22, 2010 episode of Psych; where he played villain “Yin”[10]

Peter Weller IMDB Page

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Stefano Langone Working On His Album

Stefano Langone talks to us about his new album and his support for cancer research at GBK Gifting Suite for the American Music Awards

Stefano Langone talks to us about his new album and his support for cancer research.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fT-LqkaqM6g]

Listen to Stefano Langone’s New Single “I’m On A Roll

I caught Stefano Langone at the GBK Celebrity Gifting Suite for the American Music Awards. Stefano was a wonderful interview, mainly because I forgot to turn on RECORD for our interview and though he was really busy, he re-recorded the whole interview for me.

Stefano talks about working on his album set to release sometime in May of 2012 and about his support of the environment and cancer research.

Stefano thanks for everything. Can’t wait to hear the new album. – JW

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Stefano LangoneStefano Langone

From Wikipedia

Langone was born on February 27, 1989 in Bellevue, Washington to Carrie and Ernie Langone.[1] He is half Spanish and half Italian.[2] His father works as a career advisor at The Art Institute of Seattle and is also a singer and musician.[1][3] Langone has been singing and playing the piano since childhood. He attended Emerald Park Elementary School, Meridian Junior High, and Kentwood High School, as well as Bellevue College, where he was given a full ride scholarship.[4] He performed with Bellevue College’s ‘Celebration!’ vocal jazz ensemble while he was a student there.[5]

On May 28, 2009, he was involved in a near-fatal accident after being hit by a drunk driver.[6] The accident resulted in two broken arms, a fractured pelvis, and other serious injuries. In addition, Langone had to re-learn to walk and has extensive scarring as a result of the accident.[7]

Post Idol

Following his elimination, Langone appeared on several talk shows. He appeared on Live with Regis and Kelly on April 25, 2011, as well as The Today Show on April 26, 2011. In addition, Langone appeared on The Rachael Ray Show along with Paul McDonald and Pia Toscano on May 25, 2011.[10]

The following summer, Langone toured with the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2011, which began in West Valley City, Utah on July 6, 2011 and ended in Manila, Philippines on September 21, 2011.

On September 24, 2011, Langone sang the National Anthem at the Western Hockey League game opener between the Seattle Thunderbirds and Portland Winterhawks. On September 26, 2011, Langone and James Durbin appeared on Dr. Drew‘s “Lifechangers” TV Talk show.

As of October 9, 2011, Langone has officially moved to Los Angeles to begin a music career. Langone is currently being managed by 19 Entertainment.[11]

While recording for his upcoming debut album, Langone has performed at several events. On October 15, 2011, Langone performed at Eva Longoria’s Charity Padres El Cancer in Las Vegas.[12] On November 24, 2011, Langone performed at the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade. On December 4, 2011, Langone performed at Trevor Live, an event benefiting The Trevor Project.

album stefano yes to loveStefano’s New Song

button amazon buy from 02button buy from itunesYes To Love

Check out Stefano’s newest song on Amazon or Itunes or go to Vevo to watch the video or…..

 

 

logo stand up to cancer su2cStand Up To Cancer

Since our launch in 2008, we’ve been amazed by the outpouring of generosity and hope from the ever-growing SU2C community. You’ve shared your stories. You’ve launched stars in honor of loved ones. You’ve sent letters to Congress. You’ve spread the word to friends and family. You joined us for our second, commercial-free telecast on September 10, 2010 and, most importantly, pledged over $80 million to accelerate ground-breaking research and bring new treatments to patients as quickly as possible.

We’ve all come together — from patients to clinicians, from advocates to lawmakers, from children to teenagers to parents and parents of parents — in support of one cause: finding a cure for cancer. We can’t thank you enough for making Stand Up To Cancer what it is today. This is where the end of cancer begins

To learn more about the people behind SU2C, visit the links below.

  • Co-Founders
  • Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF)
  • SU2C Team
  • Why We’re Different
  • The Science

 

 

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Gavin Keilly GBK Productions Gift Suite for the American Music Awards

Gavin Keilly CEO of GBK Productions Hosts a Gifting Suite for the American Music Awards

Gavin Keilly talks with us about GBK Productions, Gifting Suites and Celebrity Product Promotions.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZ5ZN-EJRFc]

Celebrity Gifting Suites. You may have heard about them. Celebrities get to go to them to collect bags full of cool gifts from companies who want celebs and stars to use and promote their stuff.  The vendors and stars, plus some great charities really benefit.

GBK is one of the biggest and best; come and meet the guy that makes it all happen.

I have been covering gifting suites for a very short time, but have learned that they are a great way for companies with products 0r services to promote, get many celebrities to stand with their product, get pictures, press and incredible media exposure.

My first gifting suite was GBK and though I have done a few others now, I will fondly remember Gavin’s as my first.

Gavin is a gracious, warm and caring guy that puts on some of the best events in Hollywood. Check out www.GBKProductions.com and check out the events his company has produced. Very impressive.

The best part is that Gavin and GBK work hard to honor many wonderful non-profit causes at his events.

Gavin I thank you for inviting me to cover your events and I wish you a wonderful new year. – JW

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GBK Productions

GBK Productions is a Marketing, Public Relations, Fundraising and Special Events company dedicated to providing high quality, tailor-made service to its individual clients. GBK is known for integrating the Entertainment, Luxury Consumer Products and Non-Profit industries to create unique and memorable high-profile experiences that maximize its clients’ brand-building efforts.

Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Event Production, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. Though separate, each entity is interconnected allowing clients/brands a full range of marketing services and benefits.

Gavin Keilly GBK ProductionsGavin Keilly

Gavin Keilly is the CEO and founder of GBK Productions, (www.GBKProductions.com), and parent companies GBK Weddings and GBK Public Relations.  Gavin, a Southern California native, organizes special events for the entertainment industry, the non-profit sector and is renowned for his celebrity gift suites.

The ultimate specialist, Gavin’s superlative skills are vital to ensure the success of an event. Personally involved in each function, he utilizes a holistic method to discern and design each unique client’s vision.  Stunning and imaginative affairs are Gavin’s forte with the added value of savvy vendor negotiating with caterers, sound engineers, venue reps, rental companies and printers.

Past clients include: ABC Studios, City of Hope, Elton John AIDS Foundation, EXTRA TV, Global Peace Initiative at the United Nations, Hollywood Jazz Festival, Jurlique Spa, MTV Studios, Paramount Pictures, So the World May Hear, Showtime, Sharon Osbourne Colon Cancer Foundation, Steve Harvey Show, Tribute to Jerry Lewis, Telepicture and more.

GBK has won multiple awards from Biz Bash for the Best Gift Suite, and Gavin was honored as Humanitarian-of-the-Year for his ongoing philanthropic efforts.

GBK Productions
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Javier Colon 2011 Winner of “The Voice” at GBK Gifting Suite for the AMAs

Javier Colon Talks to Us About His New Album and What Causes He Supports

Javier Colon talks about his newly released album Come Though for You and about his support of cancer awareness and research.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKI5EXVMHVo]

Javier Colon fresh off his video shoot spoke with me at the GBK Gifting Suites at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA.
Javier was recently the winner of the new hit show “The Voice“, which I really loved watching. In my mind Javier was the easy winner.
I also took a minute to check out the new album and it is really good. One person on iTunes commented, it is not for everybody and I agree. It is for great music lovers. If you are not one, then you can forget this gem.
OK, Here’s The Truth (Pun Intended), I liked all the songs. Not often I can say that.
All the celebrities are rushed through the interviews by their handlers very quickly so I really appreciate that Javier took his time and answered my questions thoroughly and thoughtfully – JW

Javier ColonJavier ColoN

Javier Colon has a lot of heart.

In fact, that heart is precisely why he captivated America as winner of the inaugural season of NBC’s hit television show, The Voice. It’s why he never gave up on his dream of a career in music even in the face of numerous setbacks and what seemed like endless adversity. It’s why every time he writes a song, it strikes a chord. It’s also why when the world hears his forthcoming 2011 debut album, Come Through For You, on Universal Republic Records, they will feel it.

Colon is no stranger to the music business. After touring with The Derek Trucks Band for two years, he released two major label albums via Capital Records—Javier in 2003 and Left of Center in 2006. Both releases illustrated a daring creativity that expanded beyond the confines of pop music, while still retaining an undeniable sense of melody. He already began to stand out as he carved the foundation for his self-dubbed, “acoustic soul” style.

Colon eventually split with Capitol and released The Truth – Acoustic EP on his own label, Javier Colon Music, in 2010. After a decade, he’d already experienced the road, dealt with the struggles of trying to excel on a competitive and crowded major label roster, and faced the challenges of promoting his music independently. In a sense, he’d seen it all and could’ve thrown in the towel. He wasn’t going to stop though.

Notified of the chance to audition for The Voice in early 2011, Colon took the opportunity. He’d been fighting for another record deal for five years to no avail and wasn’t sure about what the next step would be. Almost canceling the audition due to other show commitments, he decided to go anyway.

“I’m glad I went because The Voice was the best thing that’s happened up to this point in my career,” smiles Colon. “I really try to put everything I am into my songs and performances. I never expect anything, and winning was a shock. I was one-hundred percent happy that I’d simply gotten to the final four contestants. When Carson Daly announced I was the winner, I was elated and I couldn’t believe it. I’m very thankful.”

Original song and debut single “Stitch By Stitch” not only clenched the top prize on The Voice for Colon, but it also became something of a phenomenon. During the first week of its digital release, the song exceeded sales of 145,000 and peaked at #17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Colon even performed “Stitch By Stitch” on the Tonight Show With Jay Leno. With its lilting acoustic guitar and Colon’s palpable, powerful delivery, it’s an honest and heartfelt ballad.

“Stitch By Stitch” is only one thread of Colon’s debut. He began writing songs for the record in July 2011, and he dove deep inside himself. The next single, “As Long As We Got Love” featuring Natasha Bedingfield, sees Colon expanding even further as a songwriter. On this irresistible duet, the singers’ voices intertwine in a hypnotic harmony that’s simply unforgettable.

Colon’s been up for it since he first discovered music as a kid growing up in Connecticut. His father was a DJ at a local radio station, so there was always music playing at home. “From an early age, I’d start mimicking the singers I’d hear on the radio,” he recalls. “With encouragement from my mom and a few teachers, I started performing at school. After that, I wanted to be all over anything that had to do with music.”

In addition, Colon writes his own music, constantly keeping himself open to inspiration. A family man, he keeps his wife and daughters close to his heart at all times often writing about them. He continues, “I connect emotionally to the songs I write, especially if they have anything to do with my wife or my little girls. As a result, music can happen at any time. I’ve had instances where I’ll wake up in the middle of the night with two full verses of lyrics that I hardly even have to think about. I hope people connect to that.

“When they get a chance to hear Come Through For You, they’ll undoubtedly connect. Colon isn’t simply following anyone else’s path either; he’s making his own way. “My influences range from James Taylor to James Brown,” Colon adds. “I approach pop from a singer-songwriter’s perspective, and I try to infuse soul into that style.

“With a fresh take on pop, soul, and acoustic music, Javier’s journey starts with the release of Come Through For You. He concludes, “I hope the album takes people on my journey through all of the trials and tribulations we’ve made it through together. It’s definitely important that the songs move people.”

Javier Colon’s Homepage
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Chaka Khan at GBK for the American Music Awards

Chaka Khan Legendary Singer and Composer, 10 Time Grammy Winner at GBK for the American Music Awards

Chaka Khan talks to us about her two foundations and the causes she supports.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=18J_AWzys5s]

While covering the GBK Gifting Suite for the American Music Awards at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. Chaka Khan talked to us about her two foundations.

Chaka has supported Autism in the past and now is helping kids and the troubled in New Orleans.

It is not over in New Orleans, as the country got hit with with one of the worst economic breakdowns of all time, New Orleans was not quite over the devastating blow it took from hurricane Katrina.

As a past resident of New Orleans myself, I have a special place in my heart for that wonderful city. Thank you Chaka for all you do. – JW

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Chaka Khan

From Wikipedia

Chaka Khan (born Yvette Marie Stevens; March 23, 1953), frequently known as the Queen of Funk, is a 10-time Grammy Award winning American singer and composer who gained fame in the 1970s as the frontwoman and focal point of the funk band Rufus. While still a member of the group in 1978, Khan embarked on a successful solo career. Her signature hits, both with Rufus and as a solo performer, include “Tell Me Something Good“, “Sweet Thing“, “Ain’t Nobody“, “I’m Every Woman“, “I Feel for You” and “Through the Fire“.

Chaka Khan’s Home Page
Chaka Khan’s Foundation

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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.

Billy Gibbons at GBK for the American Music Awards

Billy Gibbons Legendary Guitarist and Singer of ZZ Top at GBK for the American Music Awards

Billy takes a moment to talk to us about his causes and how we all need to help by finding a cause that resonates with you.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpMtZVWY7Mg]

Recently I got the chance to cover the GBK Gifting Suite for the American Music Awards at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. Billy Gibbons took a minute of his time while supporting the vendors and causes, to tell us what he thought about helping out.

ZZ Top has always been one of my favorite bands as I love their unique Texas Radio sound and as a guitarist myself, I always was in awe of how a three piece always sounded so good. As a lead guitarist it is always hard to not have the bottom fall out of the tune without a rhythm guitarist.

From their long beards, great guitars, cool sound and cool moves, ZZ Top is a class act. Thanks Billy- JW

billy gibbonsBilly Gibbons

From Wikipedia

William Frederick “Billy” Gibbons (born December 16, 1949) is an American musician, actor and car customizer, best known as the guitarist of the Texas blues-rock band ZZ Top. He is also the lead singer and composer for many of the band’s songs. Gibbons is known for playing his Gretsch Billy Bo guitar and his famous 1959 Gibson Les Paul guitar known as Pearly Gates. Gibbons has a Bass vocal range, spanning E♭1 to E♭5, one of the widest ranges in Rock. He is noted for using an old five pesos Mexican coin as a guitar pick and uses many pinch harmonics in his solos.

ZZ Top is Frank Beard, Billy Gibbons and Dusty Hill

ZZ Top’s Home Page
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Thanks to GBK Productions – Gavin and his great staff. As always you host the best.