Wyclef Jean's Words Of Wisdom For Young People

On Sunday, May 23, Wyclef Jean received an honorary doctorate from Western Connecticut State University and delivered a commencement speech to the class of 2010. The university presented Wyclef with a check for $9,500 for his Yéle Haiti Foundation and the crowd cheered as he encouraged the students to create a vision for their future and chase their dreams.

“Yesterday I gave the commencement speech at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, Conn,” wrote the star in the Huffington Post. "I’ve spoken at lots of places before — the U.N., the White House, awards shows where hundreds of thousands of people were watching. But this was my first commencement gig. I felt a big responsibility. I wondered what words of wisdom I could give to those young adults, about to start a whole new life.

“I came to America as a boy excited. This was the land of possibilities and opportunities. I loved music, writing, singing, playing. That’s all I ever wanted to do.I was told that I didn’t have a chance. That there was no way I could make a living as a musician or a rapper.

“If you have a vision for yourself, it won’t matter that others may be blind to what you can see. That vision will help you see past many factors that can discourage you. That vision will help you see past the setbacks — and setbacks will happen.

“I have had a lot of success in entertainment. But I didn’t really become successful as a person until I began to give of myself to others who needed my help. Outside of being a husband and a father, nothing has given me greater satisfaction than the work I’ve been able to do with Yéle Haiti, the charity I founded in 2005.

“Create a vision based on your specific gifts, talents and tools. There is greatness in simply being you and using your skill to do something with your vision — and to put your personal plan in motion.

“You are ultimately responsible for how far you can see. Your future belongs to you, and you alone.

“Believe it or not, I used to ride a donkey to school in Haiti. I lived in a one‐room shack. When I came to America, I didn’t speak a word of English. Today I am able to travel the world, reach people with my music, work on behalf of my native Haiti and even speak at a college commencement. I am proof that anything you want is possible, if you can only envision it first.”

Chris Tucker Returns As Host Of BrittiCares Charity Run/Walk

Chris Tucker will return as host of the 5th annual BrittiCares International Smile For Life 5K Run/Walk in LA this Saturday, May 29.

BrittiCares International is a non-profit organization, committed to making a difference in the lives of children diagnosed with cancer and their families. The inspiration of the organization came from a little girl named Brittiana Henderson who was first diagnosed with Osteogenic Sarcoma (bone cancer) and later developed leukemia where she fought courageously, without complaining, while assisting other children with cancer to defeat the pernicious disease. Although Brittiana’s battle against Leukemia came to an end, the efforts of BCI have not diminished. BCI wishes to raise funds and public awareness to combat this disease.

“Congratulations to BrittiCares International as they continue to be a beacon of light and champions of hope by bringing smiles into the lives of children with cancer,” says Chris Tucker. "I salute you in your mission to honor the precious memory of Brittiana Renee Henderson of whom I call “Little Sister” by making sure that the world will never forget and can always feel the warmth of her beautiful spirit."

Celebrities expected to attend the event include Monique Coleman [Disney’s High School Musical], Keke Palmer [True Jackson], a performance by R&B sensation Mishon, comedian/actor Ricky Harris, Laker Girls, astronaut James M. Kelly [meet and greet wearing his space suit] and others.

The title of the walk came effortlessly, because, through Brittiana’s challenges, it was rare to catch her without a smile. She would often say “I’m smiling, because, I’m living”. Brittiana wanted to put that same smile on the faces of other children battling cancer, and during her own battle, founded BrittiCares International, where its mission is ‘Helping Children Survive Cancer’ one smile at a time.

Brittiana ‘Smile For Life’ 5K Run/Walk has become BrittiCares signature fundraising and cancer awareness event, and is powered by family and friends, volunteers, hospital, community and celebrity supporters and sponsors for their good works and contributions in helping to change lives.

The tradition of this heart warming event, begins with a tribute song and dance, followed by a unity lap that honors cancer Angels, survivors, and patients of all ages. Now, the race begins!

The efforts behind Brittiana ‘Smile For Life’ 5k are to generate vital funds for research, direct assistance & uplifting support for childhood cancer patients and their families, blood & marrow drives, and to raise awareness about the increasing prevalence of childhood cancer, and the need to help make a difference.

Paul McCartney To Help Two Causes With One Concert

Paul McCartney is to play one special concert in the UK to raise funds for two good causes: his Meat Free Monday campaign and Kevin Spacey's campaign to put a new roof on The Old Vic Theatre.

On 1 July, The Old Vic will celebrate its 192nd birthday with an inaugural fundraiser, The Old Vic 192. Taking place at The Boiler House (Battersea Power Station), The Old Vic 192 is set to become a major annual London fundraiser and key fixture of the Summer season.

Hosted by Kevin Spacey, Artistic Director, and Sally Greene, Chief Executive at The Old Vic, the major star-studded birthday celebration will feature entertainment including an exclusive private performance by Paul McCartney and live art auction hosted by Oliver Barker, Senior Director at Sotheby’s. Supported by W Doha, the evening’s activity will commence with a champagne and canapé reception, dinner, auction and conclude with a private performance with Paul McCartney.

“I’m delighted to be able to announce The Old Vic 192, our inaugural annual fundraiser on 30th June 2010, in aid of The Old Vic Theatre Trust,” said Spacey. “We are thrilled Paul McCartney will lend his extraordinary talents on the evening alongside brilliant artists who’ve generously donated their artworks for auction. It’s set to be quite a night!”

Alicia Keys Follows Bono's Charity Advice

Alicia Keys has revealed how Bono helped lead to her decision to use her celebrity status for good and establish Keep A Child Alive.

“It’s a currency — you must use it well or lose it,” she told Britain’s Live Magazine. "Bono told me that, and I totally agree. Now I’ve achieved a certain level of fame I know I must make good use of it, especially as I’ve been around the world and know suffering in a way I didn’t before.

“That’s why I launched my charity, Keep A Child Alive. I was so moved to meet people in Africa who have so little and yet are so generous, people who’ve been to hell and back but retain their dignity and are fighting for their dreams. The charity gives people the chance to chase those dreams.”

Keep A Child Alive provides life-saving anti-retroviral treatment to children and their families with HIV/AIDS in Africa and the developing world by directly engaging the global public in the fight against AIDS.

Ellen DeGeneres Joins Fight For Healthy School Lunches

Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are the latest stars to urge Congress to pass the Healthy School Meals Act of 2010, which will see plant-based meals and non-dairy beverages a requirement in school lunchrooms.

“We know how much you care about children’s health,” they wrote in a letter to Congress. "That’s why we’re joining the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine in urging you to support the Healthy School Meals Act, HR 4870.

“This bill would help schools add healthy plant-based vegetarian options in lunch lines. Two years ago, we switched to a plant-based diet out of concern for animals and the environment. Many children stop eating meat for the same reasons. Adding vegetarian options in schools would not only benefit these children — it would provide healthier options for all young people.

“Obesity, diabetes and other diet-related health problems are showing up in children at disturbingly high rates. One out of five teenagers already has abnormal cholesterol levels. Fighting this epidemic is one of the most urgent challenges we face — and healthy school lunches could play a vital role.”

The letter follows a similar letter from Woody Harrelson, as well as support from Scarlett Johansson and Michelle Obama.

“The Healthy School Meals Act is the easiest way to decrease children’s overall intake of saturated fat and cholesterol,” wrote Ellen and Portia. "It would simply provide a healthier option for children to try. Even if students choose a plant-based option just once or twice a week, they’ll be consuming significantly less fat and cholesterol – and that could make a huge difference to their health.

“Please include the Healthy School Meals Act language in revised child nutrition legislation. Children are depending on us.”

Paris Hilton To Launch Charity Initiative For US Troops

Paris Hilton has been named as ambassador for a new initiative from the USO that aims to give a MP3 player to all US active service troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“I’m always looking for ways I can use my voice as a celebrity and I think there is nothing more worthwhile and patriotic than supporting our troops. When I first heard about the Songs for Soldiers initiative it immediately touched my heart,” Hilton told Fox News. “It’s so easy to take for granted our freedom and happiness and forget about those who are endangering their lives every day to make it possible. Songs for Soldiers is a simple way to show you care.”

Paris will launch the Songs For Soldiers initiative at the A Swingin’ Salute to Our Troops event in New York’s Union Square Ballroom on Wednesday, May 26.

“I would love to visit our troops!” said Paris. “I hope that once we meet this goal I can personally be a part of the trip overseas to deliver these players into the hands of the troops. I would find that very rewarding, it is something I have always wanted to do.”

Matt Damon Honored By Save The Children For Charity Work

Actor Matt Damon received Save the Children's Leadership Award at the annual Celebration of Hope event in Greenwich on Friday, May 21.

Damon was honored for his steadfast commitment to mothers and children in the poorest regions of the world. The benefit, which raised funds for Save the Children’s newborn and child survival programs, was hosted by Ann Curry, NBC’s Today Show and Dateline anchor. Other NBC attendees included Brian Williams, Meredith Vieira, Kathie Lee Gifford, Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager.

“I have bumped into Save the Children staff members around the world and think they are some of the most incredible people I have ever met,” said Damon. “They are professional and passionate about protecting children in some of the most difficult and impoverished places.”



Almost 9 million children die every year before their fifth birthday from preventable and treatable illnesses such as pneumonia, diarrhea, malaria, and newborn complications. Funds raised at the benefit will support Save the Children’s global effort to significantly reduce these numbers through proven, low-cost interventions like vaccinations, better newborn care practices and antibiotic treatment.

“These problems are very simple and identifiable,” said Damon, “and so are the solutions.”

Philip H. Geier, Jr., Save the Children Trustee, author and philanthropist, also received the Leadership Award.

Save the Children is the leading independent organization for children in need, with programs in 120 countries, including the United States.

Madonna Calls For Support Of Equal Rights In Malawi

Madonna – founder of Raising Malawi – is asking her fans to join her in support of equal rights and the freedom to love in the African country following the jailing of two men for 14 years for the “crime” of homosexuality.

“I am shocked and saddened by the decision made this week by the Malawian court, which sentenced two innocent men to prison,” says the singer. "As a matter of principle, I believe in equal rights for all people, no matter what their gender, race, color, religion, or sexual orientation.

“This week, Malawi took a giant step backward. The world is filled with pain and suffering; therefore, we must support our basic human right to love and be loved.

“I call upon the progressive men and women of Malawi—and around the world—to challenge this decision in the name of human dignity and equal rights for all.”

Simon Cowell Awarded For Charity Work

Simon Cowell was honored with Variety - The Children's Charity's prestigious Humanitarian Award at the Variety World Conference at the Grand Ballroom of the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel & Spa on May 23.

Since 1938, Variety International’s Humanitarian Award has annually been awarded to a person who has shown incredible dedication in the support of humankind.

Variety International recognize Simon Cowell has utilized his position in the entertainment industry, in business and his international profile as a fundraising tool to support many charities and individuals around the world and has helped transform many lives of those in need.

As Creator and Judge of the biggest selling TV entertainment formats The X Factor and Got Talent, and through his TV and record company Syco, Simon has raised many millions of dollars for numerous causes worldwide in both collaborative and personal projects.

In recent months, Simon initiated the release of a star-studded version of ‘Everybody Hurts’ in direct response to the tragedy of the earthquake in Haiti. The single became the fastest selling charity single of the century benefiting the 12 charities supported by the Disasters Emergency Committee and Helping Haiti for UNICEF.

The annual charity single released by The X Factor’s twelve finalists has raised over $4 million in recent years for the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital and the Help For Heroes campaign.


As Patron of Children’s Hospices UK, Simon dedicates time and support to raising money for thousands of life limited children and their families. Amongst many other charities supported by Simon, some include the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the Centre for Environmental Education and the Charity Projects Entertainment Fund.

In addition, animal welfare charities including PETA, WSPA, ARK and the Battersea Dogs Home, all benefit from his continued generosity and passion for protecting animals from cruelty and neglect.

In his capacity as a judge on American Idol, Simon has contributed to helping raised over $140 million for charities through ‘Idol Gives Back’, including the Children's Health Fund, Feeding America, Malaria No More, Save the Children and the United Nations Foundation.

Flea's Silverlake Conservatory Of Music Announces Charity News

Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea has announced some exciting new initiatives for his Silverlake Conservatory of Music.

Established by Flea and Keith Barry in 2001 to facilitate music education by providing affordable or free lessons and instruments, the Conservatory’s eight classrooms are filled with instruments, teachers and students, with instruction, discussion, laughter and, of course, lots of music. To these students, the SCM represents a future full of the joy of music and the sense of accomplishment felt by those who make it.

The charity is happy to announce that it is running an online fundraising auction for a brand new Fender guitar amp, with all proceeds going to its music facilities. The G-DEC 3 Thirty model amp comes packed with presets and loops from some top artists, including Eric Johnson, Charlie Benante and Frank Bello (Anthrax), Phil Collen (Def Leppard), Joe Trohman (Fall Out Boy), Brad Paisley, Dweezil Zappa, Jim “Rev. Horton Heat” Heath, Keith Urban, Hatebreed, Nils Lofgren, Gary Hoey, Crooked X, Strung Out and many others.

Jackie Chan Brings Water To Drought Areas

Earlier this month, Jackie Chan traveled to Tongren in the Guizhou province of China to bring much-needed water and supplies to the drought stricken area. He has now blogged about the experience.

“Along with my team (The Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation), I flew to TongRen City, Guizhou Province in the Tujia County," writes Jackie in the blog. "We brought 48,000 bottles of water to their people. My team told me that the GDP is the lowest in the country and up in the mountains where the people lived, they were facing serious water shortages.

“Along the way, I learned that the water was difficult to store and that 97% of the farmland were in the mountains. In the summer’s dry season, villagers have to walk 10 miles down the mountain just to collect two bottles of water. So in the car up to the mountain, I could see the roof of many houses, used as a reservoir for water. However, it was covered with moss and there was no filter. They used it to wash their clothes, their plates, and even to drink.”

Jackie’s blog tells how he visited schools in the area, and personally delivered water to residents – something he will never forget.

“After seeing how they drank water, I immediately donated 1 million RMB to the local government. Also, I donated money [for] the construction of 10KM of water pipes and a water tower. Now, 9,000 people in the village can drink clean water!”

To read Jackie’s full blog and see photos of his trip, click here.

Ne-Yo Unveils "BE A GENTLEMAN" Billboard in Las Vegas, Encouraging Youth to BE GREAT

Boys & Girls Club Alumnus Joins Superstar Lineup, Including Denzel Washington, Shaquille O'Neal, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Martin Sheen, Usher, Ashanti, Gen. Wesley Clark and Mario Lopez in Boys & Girls Clubs of America's National Advocacy Campaign

When:
Billboard Unveiling, 11:00 a.m., Thursday, May 20, 2010

Where:
S. Las Vegas Blvd., between Russell and Sunset, at the "Welcome
to Las Vegas" sign
When:
Clubhouse Preview, 5:00 p.m., Thursday, May 20, 2010
3540 Cambridge Street (corner of Dumont and Cambridge, Las Vegas)

Where:
As part of Boys & Girls Clubs of America's (BGCA) BE GREAT youth
advocacy campaign, popular recording star, actor, and Boys &
Girls Club alum Ne-Yo will unveil a new billboard featuring
his childhood picture and the inspirational message - BE A
GENTLEMAN. Ne-Yo joins some 25 prominent alumni in BGCA's
campaign to increase public awareness about the serious issues
facing today's young people, and send a call-to-action,
urging every American to help young people BE GREAT.

What:
Ne-Yo's BE A GENTLEMAN ads mark the second wave of advertising
created for BGCA by pro bono agency McCann Erickson San
Francisco. The campaign's out-of-home component is made
possible by BGCA's partnership with the Outdoor Advertising
Association of America (OAAA). The billboard in Las Vegas was
made available courtesy of Clear Channel.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Las Vegas (BGCLV) will host a preview
celebration of the Ralph and Betty Engelstad Clubhouse from
5:00 - 7:00 p.m. The new 8,500-sq.-ft. facility replaces the
former Snyder Clubhouse, at the intersection of Dumont and
Cambridge Streets. It will officially open to children and
families on the first day of summer, Monday, June 7, 2010.

Why:
From academic failure and gang violence to poverty, drugs and
obesity, America's youth face a daunting array of problems -
with serious consequences and fewer safety nets at home and in
the community. According to a 2007 Harris survey, 57 percent
of Boys & Girls Club alumni reported, "The Club saved my life,"
while 28 percent credited the Club with keeping them in school.

Nicolas Cage And Friends To Heal The Bay At Charity Gala

Kicking off the celebration of its 25th anniversary, environmental group Heal the Bay has announced an eclectic group of green leaders to be honored at its Bring Back the Beach gala dinner on May 20.

Held on the sand at The Jonathan Beach Club, the gala is dubbed “An Evening Under The Stars.” Nearly 1,000 guests will join together to recognize the eco-accomplishments of Oscar-winning actor Nicolas Cage, The Walt Disney Company, environmental engineer and business leader Jack Baylis, and longtime Heal the Bay boardmember and fundraiser Luann Laval Williams.

Celebrities expected to attend include actresses Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Amy Smart, as well as TV personalities Chad Lowe, Donna Mills and Lindsay Wagner.

Cage, whose latest film Kick Ass is the No. 1 new release at the boxoffice, is a longtime major donor of Heal the Bay. In addition to his work to protect the health of our local oceans, he has been deeply involved in the re-building of New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. Best known for his work in such films as Leaving Las Vegas, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1995, Cage has also directed and produced films, including Shadow of the Vampire.

At the heart of The Walt Disney Company’s nearly two decades of support for Heal the Bay is its employee “VoluntEARS,” who have donated hundreds of hours in numerous local coastal cleanup efforts. Their dedication is a reflection of the company’s rich environmental legacy, which spans more than 60 years , beginning with Walt Disney, whose love of nature was incorporated in so many of Disney’s earliest classics. That commitment to environmental stewardship continues to grow through efforts to minimize the company’s operational impact, significant investments in environmental projects around the world and initiatives that inspire stewardship in others.

Disney’s Friends for Change: Project Green for everyday life and Disney’s Planet Challenge for the classroom are cornerstones of Disney’s focus to provide the youth of today with the knowledge and resources to positively impact the environment for future generations. Storytelling about the beauty and importance of nature continues to thrive through the Disneynature film studio, whose most recent documentary, OCEANS, chronicles the mysteries and amazing creatures of the sea.

“We are lucky to have had the support of so many dynamic and diverse individuals and organizations over the past 25 years,” said Mark Gold, president of Heal the Bay. “This year’s honorees represent the best of environmental stewardship and have worked diligently to safeguard our coastal resources.”

Subaru has generously donated a 2010 Outback PZEV sports-utility vehicle to be auctioned off during the gala. Additionally, $50 is being donated to Heal the Bay for all test drives through May 31 at all Southern California Subaru dealerships.

Matt Damon And Ben Affleck To Play Ante Up For Africa Charity Poker

Many would love the opportunity to play poker with some of the biggest names in Hollywood and the most skilled poker professionals. Now you can.

The 2010 Ante Up For Africa Celebrity Charity Poker Tournament on Saturday, July 3 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas offers a special opportunity as the only event of its kind where the general public can participate.

Created by Oscar nominee Don Cheadle and Celebrity Apprentice star and WSOP bracelet winner Annie Duke, the Ante Up for Africa tournament will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 3rd at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, home of the 41st Annual World Series of Poker (WSOP).

This No-Limit Hold’em poker tournament has an entry fee of $5,000, and places players side-by-side with Hollywood hotshots, superstar athletes and poker professionals, battling it out in a unique charity tournament where you can walk away with a six-figure payday and contribute to a great cause too.

Celebrities and athletes all over are gearing up to return and will join poker’s most notable players to raise public awareness and funds which make a tangible impact on the ground in Africa. Through humanitarian assistance and policy work the organization seeks lasting solutions to Africa’s worst conflicts like the humanitarian crisis in Darfur, Sudan. In 2009, the WSOP attracted 60,875 entrants from 115 different countries and awarded over $174 million in prize money.

“It is an honor to be working with the WSOP and the Rio for the 4th year of Ante Up For Africa,” said Annie Duke. “We created this event to make a positive impact on the lives of those in Darfur and throughout Africa. I am delighted the event continues to grow every year boasting more celebrities, more players and more poker pros.”

Among those confirmed to participate, subject to availability, are: Cheadle, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Tracy McGrady, Brad Garrett, Hank Azaria, Ray Romano, Kenny Smith and Sara Rue with many more in the process of being confirmed and expressing their interest to play. Also playing, subject to availability, will be poker professionals Howard Lederer, Erik Seidel, Phil Gordon, Andy Bloch, Chris Ferguson and Phil Hellmuth with many more to be confirmed in the coming weeks.

The tournament will feature a fast-paced structure designed to complete the competition within five hours. Seating for the tournament is open to anyone age 21 or older. Players can register in person at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, or online up to two weeks prior to the event at www.wsop.com under the registration tab.

“We are so thankful to everyone who has participated in Ante Up For Africa throughout the years and are thrilled to have raised nearly $3 million to date to assist those in need,” said Don Cheadle. “We are making tremendous strides in raising awareness and hope this year’s tournament is a huge charitable success.”

This event, as is every World Series of Poker tournament, is open to the public for viewing and admission is free. The event will take place in the Pavilion Ballroom in the Rio Convention Center, with the WSOP Main Event, beginning just two days later on Monday, July 5th.

“This is a great cause and a great event,” said WSOP Vice President Ty Stewart. “Annie and Don have established quite a tradition with this event and we are honored to host it as part of the World Series of Poker.”

Cheadle, an accomplished poker player, and Duke, who has more than $4 million in tournament winnings, are committed to raising both public awareness about the tragedy in Darfur and funds to aid its victims.

Last week, Ante Up For Africa awarded two grants of $50,000 each to support the Eastern Congo Initiative founded by Ben Affleck and Water.org founded by Matt Damon – organizations focused on supporting local, community-based solutions to some of Africa’s greatest challenges.

More information about the tournament is available at www.wsop.com. If you would like more information regarding the organization, please log onto www.anteupforafrica.org and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/anteupforafrica.

Handbags Signed By Robert Pattinson And Barack Obama In Celebrity Charity Auction

Want to get your hands on a handbag signed by Robert Pattinson? Now is your chance, and you’ll be helping a great cause.

The Twilight star has signed the bag for Career Wardrobe’s new online auction of celebrity-autographed purses. The organization is the nation’s largest community-based non-profit organization serving women transitioning into the workforce by providing professional attire and innovative educational programs. Since 1995, The Career Wardrobe has assisted over 50,000 women by inspiring the confidence necessary to achieve independence.

Bags in the online Purses With Purpose auction that do not make their reserve price will be sold at a live auction during the charity’s A Perfect Fit event, to be held at the Park Hyatt Philadelphia at the Bellevue on June 9. Other famous faces to sign bags for the auction include Barack Obama, Jay Leno, Sarah Jessica Parker, Ron Howard and many more.

To view Robert’s bag and make a bid, visit the eBay auction here. To find out more about the Perfect Fit event, click here.

Sting Joins Elton John and Lady Gaga for The Rainforest Foundation Charity Concert

Sting and Trudie Styler hosted the 16th annual Rainforest Foundation benefit concert to celebrate the organization’s 21st anniversary at Carnegie Hall on Thursday night. This year’s performers included Elton John, Lady Gaga, Bruce Springsteen, Debbie Harry, Mary J. Blige and Shirley Bassey.

The event – which has been the Foundation’s main fundraiser since 1989 – was dubbed as an evening of 1980s hits and stars (“Sting told me we’re doing a show of ’80s nostalgia,” said Springsteen. “I said, ’That’s easy! We’re both ‘80s nostalgia!’”).

And the concert didn’t let fans down, with Sir Elton covering Madonna’s Material Girl and The Boss singing a version of Bryan Adam’s Cuts Like A Knife. Sting duetted with Lady Gaga on Stand By Me, while Gaga joined Sir Elton for Speechless/Your Song. Sting also joined Mary J. Blige for their 2003 duet Whenever I say Your Name. Both Elton and Sting joined Shirley Bassey for Hey Big Spender, and the evening ended with everyone on stage for Don’t Stop Believing.

Slash Leads Rockers For Charity

Motorhead frontman Lemmy, former KISS star Ace Frehley and legendary guitarist Slash rocked Los Angeles on May 7 for the sixth annual MusiCares MAP Fund benefit concert in honor of former First Lady Betty Ford and to raise money for the famous Betty Ford Center she founded.

In addition to raising money for the MusiCares MAP Fund – which provides members of the music community access to addiction recovery treatment –
Samantha Ronson also DJed during the event in memory of tragic death of Adam ‘DJ AM’ Goldstein, who died after suffering an accidental drug overdose last August.

The Betty Ford Center provides effective alcohol and other drug dependency treatment services, including programs of education and research, to help women, men and families begin the process of recovery.

Mary J. Blige to Headline Cinema Against AIDS at Cannes

Mary J. Blige will give a special performance at this year’s seventeenth annual amFAR Cinema Against AIDS event on May 20 at Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in France.

Hosted by Alan Cumming, the black-tie event – which features a cocktail reception, dinner and live auction – has become one of the most aniticpated events held during the Cannes Film Festival.

The Cinema Against AIDS event includes many of the celebrities and personalities associated with the film festival, while also attracting familiar faces from the worlds of fashion, music, business, and international society.

Event Chairs include: Giorgio Armani, Elizabeth Banks, Emily Blunt, Kenneth Cole, Milutin Gatsby, Ryan Kavanaugh, Michel Litvak, Vincent Roberti, Carine Roitfeld, Sharon Stone and Harvey Weinstein.

Since 1993, Cinema Against AIDS events around the world have raised more than $50 million for lifesaving AIDS research.

Jay-Z Launches Roc Nation Aviators With Skullcandy

Jay-Z has teamed with Skullcandy to release the Roc Nation Aviator headphones in a new joint venture between the two companies.

According to reps for Skullcandy, the new partnership will “push new levels” of style and sound in the marketplace.

“Our passion is creating amazing music,” Jay-Z said in a statement. “We’re dedicated to delivering the best in live performances. Now with the Roc Nation/Skullcandy partnership, we’re offering the best way for people to experience the soundtrack of their lives.”

According to a press release, the Roc Nation Aviator is designed with superior metals, polycarbonate headphone cups, plush memory foam ear cushions and materials previously used in designer eyewear.

“This partnership is an incredible opportunity for Skullcandy,” the company’s CEO Rick Alden said. “By teaming up with Roc Nation on both the creative and marketing direction of these new products, we are able to set the bar at a new high - challenging the future quality of what emerges in the industry from here on out.”

The Roc Nation Aviators will be released this June.

Pam Anderson Asks Congress: End Harmful Chimpanzee Experiments

Pamela Anderson is pressing Congress to help find a cure for hepatitis C — a disease she’s battling — without experimenting on chimpanzees.

She’s calling on both Rep. Frank Pallone and Rep. Henry Waxman to ban invasive chimpanzee experiments and support modern, human-based research methods. In a letter dated May 13, Ms. Anderson asks the congressmen to co-sponsor the Great Ape Protection Act (H.R. 1326). The bipartisan legislation would phase out invasive chimpanzee experiments and release all federally owned chimpanzees to sanctuaries. The bill currently has more than 140 congressional co-sponsors.

“As one of the more than 3 million Americans living with hepatitis C, I am writing to ask that you take steps to end ineffective and cruel research using chimpanzees and direct federal funds to modern, human-based research methods that will be more effective at finding a vaccine and treatment for hepatitis C and other deadly diseases,” writes Anderson. "I implore that you encourage the National Institutes of Health and other agencies to invest in more effective and efficient human cell based technologies that are more likely to yield successful results.

“I have a personal interest in supporting the search for a vaccine for this disease and others, but it is clear that confining chimpanzees to small cages for decades, at great cost to these highly intelligent and social animals, is not moving us closer to that goal.

“I am writing to you now to urge you to call for a hearing in the Energy and Commerce Committee about the Great Ape Protection Act, a bill that would end ineffective and harmful experiments on chimpanzees and release federally owned chimpanzees to sanctuaries.”

More than 1,000 chimpanzees currently live in laboratories in the United States. Many live in cages about the size of a kitchen table for decades. The United States is the only country still using chimps in large-scale research.