Luxist http://www.luxist.com Luxist http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Luxist http://www.luxist.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament: Celebrity, Philanthropy, and the Allure of Shadow Creek]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/04/05/michael-jordan-celebrity-invitational-golf-tournament-shadow-creek-las-vegas/http://www.luxist.com/2011/04/05/michael-jordan-celebrity-invitational-golf-tournament-shadow-creek-las-vegas/http://www.luxist.com/2011/04/05/michael-jordan-celebrity-invitational-golf-tournament-shadow-creek-las-vegas/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Michael Jordan Golf Tournament

The Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament hosted by Aria Resort And Casino, was recently held at the Shadow Creek Golf Course in North Las Vegas. Luxist attended the event this past weekend and experienced first-hand the unique blend of celebrity and philanthropy. However, this year the event took place at one of the most alluring, mythic, elite golf courses in the U.S., Tom Fazio's Shadow Creek. And for the first time, the course opened to the general public.

A little more on this golf course: unlike many famous courses, this one is hard to imagine, out in the middle of the Nevada desert, and even harder to find. From the Las Vegas strip, it's about a half hour away -- north on I-15 to Craig Road, then go west, then north again, and finally, through some imposing guard gates. And then, there it is, beyond the gates -- the 350-acre, $60 million plus, exceptionally private, painfully green, Tom Fazio course looking more like courses at Pinehurst, or Kiawah, or Augusta. Anywhere, almost, but Nevada.

Shadow Creek boasts quiet streams, rushing brooks, weeping willows, waterfalls, ducks, pheasants, rabbits, and stone bridges that look eerily like the old Swilken bridge at St. Andrews. Indeed, Shadow Creek, has an untouched, impossibly perfect, movie-set look, as if few mortals would ever dare to actually play the course.

For many years, adding to this ineffable allure, is fact: for years, and even now, ONLY MGM Resort guests are permitted to play Shadow Creek. Green fees are listed at $500.00 -- with limo service to and from the course. And the players must schedule tee times at least an hour apart, giving the impression that golfers are on the course by themselves. All of this plays into an image of ultimate elitism combined with escapism, creating a course intrigue that involves rarity, mystery, and sanctuary.

The course's route runs mostly north and south so the sun's glare would miss the golfer's eyes, and Fazio with his builders, dug 50 feet into the low desert to provide for elevation changes and enough dirt to build hills around the entire property to provide another dimension of privacy. One of the stories heard, perhaps apocryphal, was that many who live close to the golf course don't know of its existence.

Continue reading The Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament: Celebrity, Philanthropy, and the Allure of Shadow Creek

LuxistThe Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament: Celebrity, Philanthropy, and the Allure of Shadow Creek originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebrity philanthropycharitygolfLas VegasMake-A-Wish FoundationMichael JordanMichael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf TournamentNevada Cancer CenterShadow Creek Golf CoursesportsTue, 05 Apr 2011 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Ralph Lauren's Cars, Private Parrot Cay Villa & More in Bid to Save the Earth Auction - Part 2]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/29/bid-to-save-the-earth-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/29/bid-to-save-the-earth-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/29/bid-to-save-the-earth-auction/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Parrot Cay Villa for auction in Bid to Save the Earth

Last week we reported on the host of international celebrities, creative icons, industry leaders and conservationists joining together with famed auction house Christie's to support the 2011 Green Auction, a momentous live event and companion online auction raising funds and awareness for the preservation and sustainability of the planet.

Christie's has partnered with luxury charity auction site charitybuzz.com to put more than 200 coveted auction packages online from now through April 7 to raise funds for Oceana, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Conservation International and the Central Park Conservancy. Supporters can make a Bid to Save the Earth at www.charitybuzz.com/BidtoSavetheEarth.

A companion invite-only event and live fantasy auction hosted by Seth Meyers will be held at Christie's New York on March 29 in partnership with Vogue's Runway to Green. The event will feature a fashion show sponsored by Tiffany & Co. on the night of the live auction, with designer collection selections available online through Net-A-Porter.com.

In part one of our report on the incredible experiences on offer, we focused on the big ticket items estimated at over $100,000 apiece, including a ride with Harrison Ford on his private plane. Now we're selecting some of our favorite lots across a range of expected prices (N.B.: Lagerfeld and Ducasse are being auctioned off live tonight):

Continue reading Ralph Lauren's Cars, Private Parrot Cay Villa & More in Bid to Save the Earth Auction - Part 2

LuxistRalph Lauren's Cars, Private Parrot Cay Villa & More in Bid to Save the Earth Auction - Part 2 originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alain Ducasseauctionsbid to save the earthcelebrity auctionsChanelcharityCharity BuzzChristieschristies+bid+to+save+the+earthchristiesbidtosavetheearthenvironmentFerrariGirard-Perregauxgreen+auctiongreenauctionKarl Lagerfeldluxury travelParisParrot CayRalph LaurenRalph Lauren car collectionRobert F. KennedyTurks and CaicosTue, 29 Mar 2011 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Playing Well, Doing Good: The Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament at Shadow Creek, Las Vegas]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/24/michael-jordan-celebrity-invitational-golf-tournament-shadow-creek-las-vegas/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/24/michael-jordan-celebrity-invitational-golf-tournament-shadow-creek-las-vegas/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/24/michael-jordan-celebrity-invitational-golf-tournament-shadow-creek-las-vegas/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Michael Jordan Golf

"I'm truly excited about bringing my tournament to Las Vegas. Shadow Creek is one of my favorite courses and ARIA is a spectacular resort. I love seeing old friends, playing golf and having fun, but the most gratifying aspect of hosting the event is what we've been able to give back." said Michael Jordan in a recent interview.

Significant wealth and great philanthropy are often interconnected, as philanthropic giving among the uber-wealthy is a common occurrence. Bill Gates, Steve Case, Warren Buffett and others have donated billions to help others and have started their own foundations to do it. Certainly, to whom much is given, much is required, is an oft-quoted line from the New Testament in the Bible. This sense of a returning a cosmic favor also lives among significant celebrities, with Michael Jordan as a prime example.

Continue reading Playing Well, Doing Good: The Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament at Shadow Creek, Las Vegas

LuxistPlaying Well, Doing Good: The Michael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf Tournament at Shadow Creek, Las Vegas originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARIA Resort and CasinoCats CareCelebrity Golf TournamentsGolfJames R. Jordan FoundationMake-A-Wish FoundationMichael JordanMichael Jordan Celebrity Invitational Golf TournamentNevada Cancer InstituteShadow Creek Golf CourseTom Fazio Shadow Creek Golf CourseThu, 24 Mar 2011 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Win a Ride With Harrison Ford in His Private Plane & More in Bid to Save the Earth Auction - Part I]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/23/bid-to-save-the-earth/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/23/bid-to-save-the-earth/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/23/bid-to-save-the-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

yacht

A host of international celebrities, creative icons, industry leaders and conservationists are joining together with famed auction house Christie's to support the 2011 Green Auction -- a momentous live event and companion online auction raising funds and awareness for the preservation and sustainability of the planet.

Continue reading Win a Ride With Harrison Ford in His Private Plane & More in Bid to Save the Earth Auction - Part I

LuxistWin a Ride With Harrison Ford in His Private Plane & More in Bid to Save the Earth Auction - Part I originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionsBeverly Hills HotelCannes Film Festivalcelebritiescelebrity auctionscharitycharitybuzz.comgreen+auction+2011greenauction2011Harrison FordOscarsRitz-CarltonsuperyachtTiffany Co.Vanity FairWed, 23 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[International Cosmetics & Perfumes Donates Sales, Totes to Japanese Relief]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/18/international-cosmetics-and-perfumes-donate-japan-relief/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/18/international-cosmetics-and-perfumes-donate-japan-relief/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/18/international-cosmetics-and-perfumes-donate-japan-relief/#commentsFiled under: ,

International Cosmetics & Perfumes Hanae Mori Tote BagIn response to the devastation in earthquake, tsunami and now nuclear-ravaged Japan, New York-based International Cosmetics & Perfumes -- home to such brands as Creed and the Japanese inspired Hanae Mori -- has announced an expanding charitable campaign.

Earlier this week, ICP CEO Emmanuel Saujet announced that a portion of proceeds from both the sale of items at Creed's New York boutique and Hanae Mori web sales would go to benefit the American Red Cross' Japanese relief efforts. In addition, a part of future sales of the new Hanae Mori No. 3, available in June from retailers like Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's and Sephora, will also be donated for the same purpose.

The next day, ICP announced that 50 Hanae Mori reusable tote bags, originally intended as an in-store customer appreciation gift, would also be donated to the American Red Cross to assist Japanese displaced from their homes and belongings. And finally today, Creed declared that any winnings from the 2011 season of their official polo team would find their way to the American Red Cross as well.

Japan is a market that has long and enthusiastically embraced luxury goods, so let's hope that more brands follow ICP's lead and give back.

LuxistInternational Cosmetics & Perfumes Donates Sales, Totes to Japanese Relief originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycreedearthquakehanae moriICPinternational cosmetics perfumesjapantote bagtsunamiFri, 18 Mar 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bill Gates Gives Up "World's Richest Man" Status for Philanthropy]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/08/bill-gates-gives-up-worlds-richest-man-status-for-philanthrop/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/08/bill-gates-gives-up-worlds-richest-man-status-for-philanthrop/http://www.luxist.com/2011/03/08/bill-gates-gives-up-worlds-richest-man-status-for-philanthrop/#commentsFiled under: , ,



On Wednesday, Forbes magazine will publish its annual list of the richest billionaires in the world. It's almost certain to include Bill Gates, Warren Buffett and Carlos Slim in the top three, but while Gates has topped the list nearly every year since 1995 (losing out only once to Buffett by a margin of half a billion), this year we're not expecting to see the Microsoft co-founder in the top spot.

The reason for Gates' displacement? His overwhelming philanthropic activity. Although his personal fortune today is estimated around $49 billion, he and his wife Melinda have funneled some $28 billion into their non-profit foundation. As a result, Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim - who contributes far less than Gates or Buffett to charity - is expected to top the list.

[Source: Reuters]

LuxistBill Gates Gives Up "World's Richest Man" Status for Philanthropy originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 08 Mar 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill gatesbillionairebillionairescarlos slimphilanthropywarren buffettworlds richest manTue, 08 Mar 2011 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Napa Valley School Benefit Offers Wine Lots For A Good Cause]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/27/napa-valley-school-benefit-offers-wine-lots-for-a-good-cause/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/27/napa-valley-school-benefit-offers-wine-lots-for-a-good-cause/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/27/napa-valley-school-benefit-offers-wine-lots-for-a-good-cause/#commentsFiled under: , ,

casbah in the caveWe like the way they raise money in wine country. The 12th annual fundraiser for The Young School in Napa Valley's St. Helena includes silent and live auctions with a wine focus. This year's event takes place on Saturday, March 12 at Failla Winery.

The winery's elaborate caves make a dramatic setting for the evening, which is called Casbah in the Cave. The evening features a Moroccan feast by Alex's Catering as well as a classical Middle Eastern dance performance. There will be a wide selection of auction lots featuring splendid adventures and truly fine wines from a variety of local wineries including Abreu, Blackbird, Colgin, Robert Foley, Harlan, Ovid, Joseph Phelps, Shafer and Silver Oak. Many wineries such as Far Niente and Smith-Madrone are offering event lots and travel lots offer getaways to Portugal, Nantucket and more.

The Young School is a private non-profit non-denominational Montessori-derived program for children ages 6 through 12 years old/first-sixth grades. The name of the school is taken from two sisters named 'Young' who were well-known Sonoma teachers several decades ago. The first Young School was founded in their home in downtown Sonoma. In 1997 the school moved from its Sonoma location to St. Helena in the Napa Valley. It operates as a 'one-room schoolhouse' in quarters rented from a church in a residential neighborhood of St. Helena and has an enviable 12-1 student-teacher ratio.

Tickets are $100 per person in advance and available at the benefit website.

LuxistNapa Valley School Benefit Offers Wine Lots For A Good Cause originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 27 Feb 2011 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>napa valleyst helenathe young schoolwine eventsSun, 27 Feb 2011 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[The Ultimate Las Vegas Philanthropic Gala: Diamonds, Exotic Travel, Classic Cars, And Curated Experiences]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/25/the-ultimate-las-vegas-philanthropic-gala-diamonds-exotic-trav/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/25/the-ultimate-las-vegas-philanthropic-gala-diamonds-exotic-trav/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/25/the-ultimate-las-vegas-philanthropic-gala-diamonds-exotic-trav/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Ultimate Las Vegas Philanthropic Gala: Diamonds, Exotic Travel, Classic Cars, And Curated Experiences

According to the Organization For Economic Co-operation and Development, The United States led the world last year in charitable donations, a whopping $28.67 billion dollars worth. So it is no wonder that one of the largest, wealthiest and most respected charity galas, the Power Of Love, in Las Vegas also netted quite an amount last year, for a one-night celebration: $28M, with $8M from a single donor. This year, actually, this Saturday, they are expecting to do even better, due to the dazzling, over-the-top auction prizes, even for Las Vegas.

On Saturday, February 26, Keep Memory Alive (KMA) will host its 15th annual Power of Love Gala at Bellagio in Las Vegas. Along with an evening of live entertainment, Power of Love guests will enjoy a significant auction bidding experience with impressive, one-of-a-kind items to benefit Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. Cleveland Clinic's Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health provides state-of-the-art care for cognitive disorders and for the family members of those who suffer from them. It is a substantial treatment center in Las Vegas, opened in July of 2009, where many substantial donations have helped the center thrive. A recent Luxist piece was written on Steve Wynn's commission of a James Rosenquist painting for the Clinic.

The live auction on Saturday evening will have items (see images next page) and experiences that are both pricey and priceless -- a private lunch with Lee Iacocca, and the opportunity to win the I-Legacy, one of 45 limited edition Mustangs. Luxist wrote about this unusual opportunity recently. Then, there's an eight night wine tour of Italy for four people, curated by Michael Mondavi, another wine trip to Australia, ownership of a new Fisker Karma, time in the Los Angeles recording studio with Kenny 'Babyface" Edmonds, and more. The silent auction will have ownership experiences like winning the Mercedes 2012 SLS AMG Roadster, and original Blue Dog art by George Rodrigues and others. There are many more entertainment, travel, and cultural adventures, jewelry giveways from Tiffany's and Harry Winston, to high end shopping sprees.

Some auction items are listed on the next page. A complete listing is on the Keep Memory Alive website.

Continue reading The Ultimate Las Vegas Philanthropic Gala: Diamonds, Exotic Travel, Classic Cars, And Curated Experiences

LuxistThe Ultimate Las Vegas Philanthropic Gala: Diamonds, Exotic Travel, Classic Cars, And Curated Experiences originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bellagio Las VegasClevelanc Clinic Lou Ruvo Center For Brain HealthKeep Memry Alive Power of Love GalaLas Vegas Cleveland ClinicLas Vegas Philanthropic GalaPhilanthropic auctionsphilanthropic giving in the USphilanthropyPower Of Love galaFri, 25 Feb 2011 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxist Phototour: A Look At Eric Clapton's Legendary Guitars Up For Auction]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/17/luxist-phototour-a-look-at-eric-claptons-legendary-guitars-up/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/17/luxist-phototour-a-look-at-eric-claptons-legendary-guitars-up/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/17/luxist-phototour-a-look-at-eric-claptons-legendary-guitars-up/#commentsFiled under: ,


In the last 50 years guitars have made the transition from serviceable musical instruments to works of art. Collectible guitars have become hot items at auction and some have been enshrined at museums around the country. Guitars that have been touched by guitar gods are particularly valued. In the guitar world they don't get much godlier than Eric Clapton. Clapton is a rock icon whose work has stretched decades. Not only is he one of the best, he's played with the best and is forever enshrined as part of the history of rock and roll.

Clapton has auctioned off guitars twice before in service of his other passion, recovery. The upcoming auction at Bonhams, New York on March 9 will benefit The Crossroads Centre, Antigua, the drug and alcohol rehabilitation center he founded in 1998. The sale will feature more than 70 guitars and 70 amps, which have helped create Clapton's legendary sound. Although he has donated guitars before this is the first time that he has brought his historic amplifier collection to auction and even for a non-musician, it's pretty compelling stuff. After all, you can't have Clapton's arena-filling sound without an amp.

Continue reading Luxist Phototour: A Look At Eric Clapton's Legendary Guitars Up For Auction

LuxistLuxist Phototour: A Look At Eric Clapton's Legendary Guitars Up For Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BonhamsCrossroadsEric ClaptonGuitarsThu, 17 Feb 2011 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Queen Juliana's Precious Possessions Up For Auction]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/15/queen-julianas-precious-possessions-up-for-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/15/queen-julianas-precious-possessions-up-for-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/15/queen-julianas-precious-possessions-up-for-auction/#commentsFiled under: ,


The estate of a queen goes up for auction next month. On March 14-17, Sotheby's Amsterdam will offer 1540 lots from the property from the Estate of Queen Juliana of the Netherlands with all proceeds going to charity. The total amount will be divided into two parts. One part will be donated to The Red Cross because of Queen Juliana's involvement in its work. The other section will be divided into four equal parts chosen by her heirs: The Princess Beatrix Fund chosen by Queen Beatrix, the Natuurcollege chosen by Princess Irene, the Red Cross chosen by Princess Margriet and the Princess Christina Concours was chosen by Princess Christina.

Continue reading Queen Juliana's Precious Possessions Up For Auction

LuxistQueen Juliana's Precious Possessions Up For Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>netherlandsqueen beatrixqueen julianared crosssothebysTue, 15 Feb 2011 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Natalie Portman Signs Star Wars Collectible For Charity Auction]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/11/natalie-portman-signs-star-wars-collectible-for-charity-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/11/natalie-portman-signs-star-wars-collectible-for-charity-auction/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/11/natalie-portman-signs-star-wars-collectible-for-charity-auction/#commentsFiled under: ,

The charity Clothes Off Our Backs generally features clothing and accessories signed by stars but one of their most interesting recent auctions just happens to be a Star Wars playset signed by Oscar-nominated actress Natalie Portman. Before her Black Swan days, Portman played Padmé Amidala, Queen of Naboo in three Stars Wars movies including Star Wars: Episode I.

The collectible is from that movie and the Electronic Naboo Royal Starship Blockade/Cruiser Playset is still in its original box (a boon for serious collectors). Portman scrawled "Have Fun, Be Good" over the top. There are a couple days left in the auction which benefit Clothes Off Our Back's charities including Feeding America, Malaria No More, Hope North, AbilityFirst, Villa Esperanza and Alex's Lemonade Stand. So far the $200 reserve hasn't been met.

LuxistNatalie Portman Signs Star Wars Collectible For Charity Auction originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Belvedere Vodka Joins PRODUCT(RED), Taps Usher As New Ambassador]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/10/belvedere-vodka-joins-product-red-taps-usher-as-new-ambassador/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/10/belvedere-vodka-joins-product-red-taps-usher-as-new-ambassador/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/10/belvedere-vodka-joins-product-red-taps-usher-as-new-ambassador/#commentsFiled under: ,

usher raymondLast month Penfolds became the first wine brand to partner with (PRODUCT)RED, the commerce-driven initiative to raise money to help eliminate AIDS in Africa. Now Belvedere has joined the fight, announcing a partnership with (RED) and the launch of a special edition bottle to raise proceeds for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. 50% of profits from the global sale of the special edition will be donated. The bottle will be available in late summer 2011 but it is being unveiled at a pre-Grammy party in Los Angeles on February 10, 2011 with a live performance announcing musician Usher as the brand's new celebrity ambassador. Usher joins a host of celebrity liquor salespeople, a group that includes everyone from Bruce Willis to P. Diddy and Dan Aykroyd.

Gallery: Celebrity Liquor

Danny DeVito LimoncelloOld Whiskey River BourbonTres Rios TequilaDuke Ellington CognacDr. Dre

LuxistBelvedere Vodka Joins PRODUCT(RED), Taps Usher As New Ambassador originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>belvederecelebrity adscelebrity liquorusherusher raymondThu, 10 Feb 2011 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Dog Advocacy Group Raising Funds To Buy Michael Vick's Former Real Estate]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/09/dog-advocacy-group-raising-funds-to-buy-michael-vicks-former-re/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/09/dog-advocacy-group-raising-funds-to-buy-michael-vicks-former-re/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/09/dog-advocacy-group-raising-funds-to-buy-michael-vicks-former-re/#commentsFiled under:

michael vickOnce again, a dog-advocacy group is interested in buying up Philadelphia quarterback Michael Vick's former real estate. A few years ago the infamous property in Norfolk, Virginia where Vick had his Bad Newsz dog kennels was sold by Vick to an investor for $450,000. In 2008 it was put up for auction but real estate developer Wilbur Ray Todd Jr. rejected a final bid of $747,000 (the appraised value at that time). He later sold the property. Vick served 21 months in prison for his role in the dog fighting ring before returning to the NFL.

Now a new group, Dogs Deserve Better has stepped forward looking to purchase the house and 15 acres of land. The home is currently listed for $595,000, dramatically lower than the $1.1 million it was at in 2008. The property has been cleared of the kennels and fences. The main house has two master suites, a media room and a two-car garage. Vick paid $34,000 for the 15 acres of land in 2002 and built the house.

So far Dogs Deserve Better has raised more than $50,000. The organization has pledged that all donations of $1000 or more will receive special recognition on a wall mounted plaque inside the facility. A Facebook campaign seeks to raise $999,999 in 45 days to buy the property and convert it into a dog sanctuary to train rescued dogs to live indoors with people and families.

LuxistDog Advocacy Group Raising Funds To Buy Michael Vick's Former Real Estate originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dogs deserve betterMichael VickWed, 09 Feb 2011 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Kwiat's Silver Teardrop For Charity]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/09/kwiats-silver-teardrop-for-charity/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/09/kwiats-silver-teardrop-for-charity/http://www.luxist.com/2011/02/09/kwiats-silver-teardrop-for-charity/#commentsFiled under: ,

kwiat braceletThe latest charity initiative from Kwiat is a partnership with charity:water, a non-profit organization that focuses on bringing clean, safe drinking water to people in developing nations. The Kwiat Waterdrop bracelet features a silver water drop set with a tiny .02 carat diamond on a woven leather bracelet. It is available in two lengths and is unisex. It sells for $100. Order by today Wednesday, February 9 in order to get it in time for Valentine's Day. All profits from this Kwiat diamond waterdrop bracelet will go to fund the charity: water organization and allow them to give one hundred percent of public donations to fund water projects.

This isn't Kwiat's first foray into charity jewelry. Last year they partnered with golfer Cristie Kerr to bring attention to her Birdies for Breast Cancer foundation selling a pink sapphire version of Kwiat's Signature Platinum Star Collection.

LuxistKwiat's Silver Teardrop For Charity originally appeared on Luxist on Wed, 09 Feb 2011 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cause jewelrycharity jewelrycharity:waterkwiatWed, 09 Feb 2011 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Naples Winter Wine Festival Proves Big Giving Is Back]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/30/naples-winter-wine-festival-proves-big-giving-is-back/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/30/naples-winter-wine-festival-proves-big-giving-is-back/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/30/naples-winter-wine-festival-proves-big-giving-is-back/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Big giving is back at one of the year's grandest wine events. The Naples Winter Wine Festival in Naples, Florida was held over the weekend. It raised $12 million for Collier County's underprivileged and at-risk children during the live auction of 70 one-of-a-kind auction lots. The total was healthily above last year's $8.1 million and over double the $5.1 million raised in economically gloomy 2009. The total nearly grazed the $12.2 million record set in 2006. The festival has brought in over $94.5 million since it began in 2001.

Approximately 580 festival guests were seated under a giant tent set on the grand lawn of The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort in Naples bidding on lots that ranged from $30,000 to $1 million. The million-dollar lot was an 8-foot-tall bronze sculpture, Reina Mariana, by artist Manolo Valdés. The 2,000-pound sculpture had traveled to the festival grounds from New York City's Columbus Circle, where it had been on display. The top wine lot, modestly called Perfection, was a total of 100 bottles of 100-point wine in a custom cabinet. It equaled the highest bid of a wine-only lot in the festival's history at $400,000. A 39-bottle collection of Sine Qua Non, many in large format and including 100-point wines, captured a winning bid of $160,000; a 25-year complete vertical of Shafer's Hillside Select and 24 bottles of the vintner's Silver Anniversary Sensation, when released in 2013, resulted in a high bid of $150,000; and four magnums of Colgin Cellars IX Estate Napa Valley Red Wine went for $130,000.

Continue reading Naples Winter Wine Festival Proves Big Giving Is Back

LuxistNaples Winter Wine Festival Proves Big Giving Is Back originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 30 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>naples wine festivalnaples winter wine festivalwine festivalSun, 30 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heritage Auctions Announces Three Super Bowl Charity Auction Packages]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/25/heritage-auctions-announces-three-super-bowl-charity-auction-pac/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/25/heritage-auctions-announces-three-super-bowl-charity-auction-pac/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/25/heritage-auctions-announces-three-super-bowl-charity-auction-pac/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've already mentioned one charity auction for a Super Bowl XLV package. Dallas-based Heritage Auctions has three more that give you a chance to get to the big game and do some good at the same time.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters Super Bowl XLV Double Suite Charity Auction comes courtesy of Mavericks and Cowboys season ticket holder Neal Hawks, with an assist from Dirk Nowitzki and Jason Terry of the Dallas Mavericks. This Super Bowl suite package is being donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters. Current Big Brothers in the program, Dirk, Jason and Neal realize the impact that mentoring can have on a young life. The package contains tickets for you and 36 friends to a double field level suite for Super Bowl XLV, which includes complimentary gourmet food, beer and wine served by Cowboys Stadium staff.The lot also includes four parking passes. The auction is now live on HA.com/Sports, with bidding ending Wednesday, February 2, 2011 at 10:00 PM CT.

Continue reading Heritage Auctions Announces Three Super Bowl Charity Auction Packages

LuxistHeritage Auctions Announces Three Super Bowl Charity Auction Packages originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emmitt smithsuper bowl packagesSuper Bowl XLVtaste of the NFLTue, 25 Jan 2011 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Fashion Statement: Designer Kids Lines Boom]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/20/the-fashion-statement-designer-kids-lines-boom/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/20/the-fashion-statement-designer-kids-lines-boom/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/20/the-fashion-statement-designer-kids-lines-boom/#commentsFiled under: ,



A week ago, I wrote about the hordes of celebrities with baby bumps on the red carpet during awards season. Well, designers must have been some kind of soothsayers, because several spent a good part of last year developing and launching children lines. Soon, they will no doubt see the fruits of their labor (sorry), as more and more of these privileged babies are born.

Jennifer Lopez's twins, Max and Emme, were the stars of Gucci's advertising campaign to publicize its designer munchkin wear (0 to 8 year-olds) which debuted late last year. Lopez said this week she only agreed to let her kids be photographed because it was for a good cause. Gucci pledged $1 million to UNICEF's Schools for Africa initiative.

Continue reading The Fashion Statement: Designer Kids Lines Boom

LuxistThe Fashion Statement: Designer Kids Lines Boom originally appeared on Luxist on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Carolina Herreradolce and gabbanaFendiGuccijean paul gaultierJennifer LopezMarc JacobsPaul SmithPreenRalph Laurenstella mccartneyTommy HilfigerThu, 20 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Anonymous $300,000 Gift Helps Edith Wharton's Historic Home]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/18/anonymous-300-000-gift-helps-edith-whartons-historic-home/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/18/anonymous-300-000-gift-helps-edith-whartons-historic-home/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/18/anonymous-300-000-gift-helps-edith-whartons-historic-home/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've been watching The Mount, the historic Massachusetts home of author Edith Wharton, for the last couple years as it has struggled to stay open amid deep debt. The historic home even faced foreclosure a few years back but it seems that each time the home ends up in trouble, donors and foundations step in to help out, a testament to the enduring fondness for both the writer and this beautiful home. The Mount recently received a $300,000 gift from an anonymous local donor recently after an article in the Berkshire Eagle mentioned that the Mount is facing a $1 million debt repayment deadline in May 2011. A blog post on The Mount website states that the donor regards The Mount as a national treasure and hopes others will also step up to help. The Mount's year-end appeal raised over $350,000.

The Mount is located in the Berkshires area of Massachusetts which relies on summer tourism for its local museums and estates. The Mount is part of the "American Icons" admission program which lets visitors purchase special package deal tickets to four cultural institutions: Chesterwood and the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, The Mount and Hancock Shaker Village in Hancock. Chesterwood was the summer home of sculptor Daniel Chester French. The Berkshires area is also the home of Tanglewood, the summer venue for the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Gallery: Edith Wharton's The Mount

LuxistAnonymous $300,000 Gift Helps Edith Wharton's Historic Home originally appeared on Luxist on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 21:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>berkshiresedith whartonhistoric homesthe mountTue, 18 Jan 2011 21:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Nadal, Federer And Co. Headline Flood Fundraiser]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/16/nadal-federer-and-co-headline-flood-fundraiser/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/16/nadal-federer-and-co-headline-flood-fundraiser/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/16/nadal-federer-and-co-headline-flood-fundraiser/#commentsFiled under: ,


Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal put aside their famous rivalry this weekend, teaming up with other top players to raise money for Australian flood victims on the day before the start of the Australian Open. In the "Rally for Relief" charity match, players got together on the courts with a common goal, to raise over $1 million Australian for those in the Queensland state who were stricken by the series of floods that have plagued the region. The players gave the 15,000 people attending at the Rod Laver Arena a good show, hamming it up with plenty of wisecracks. The fundraising efforts will continue throughout the Australian Open with players auctioning off shirts and other planned events.

Tennis players aren't the only sports figures contributing in Australia. Lance Armstrong, in Australia for the Tour Down Under, used the power of Twitter to organize a fundraising ride in Adelaide. He personally donated $50,000. Around 8,000 people turned out to ride with him. The Queensland Reds rugby team's doctors have offered free medical assistance to those affected by the floods. The Football Federation Australia donated $100,000 Australian to the relief effort and is planning more efforts.

LuxistNadal, Federer And Co. Headline Flood Fundraiser originally appeared on Luxist on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australian openlance armstrongrafael nadalrally for reliefroger federertour down underSun, 16 Jan 2011 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[St. Jude Offers Dream Super Bowl XLV Package]]>http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/14/st-jude-offers-dream-super-bowl-xlv-package/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/14/st-jude-offers-dream-super-bowl-xlv-package/http://www.luxist.com/2011/01/14/st-jude-offers-dream-super-bowl-xlv-package/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hotels are just about filled up in and around Dallas as Super Bowl XLV draws near but charity-minded sports fans can get a spot and help a great cause. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has teamed with FOX Sports for the 2010-2011 NFL season and is offering a one-of-a-kind, luxury Super Bowl package.

The St. Jude Ultimate Game Day Package includes four tickets in a luxury suite for Super Bowl XLV; a private jet for four to and from Dallas; five-night luxury accommodations in downtown/uptown Dallas; a Game Day chauffeur and a luxury automobile from for private use; four seats to the Legends for Charity award dinner; four seats to the Off the Field Players' Wives Association Fashion Show; four seats to the NFL-sanctioned 2011 Super Bowl Breakfast and a package for four at Halcyon Days Salon and Spa at Neiman Marcus North Park. Basically all you need to bring is your toothbrush and your game day gear. The bidding ends on January 26, 2011 and bids are already up over $50,000.

LuxistSt. Jude Offers Dream Super Bowl XLV Package originally appeared on Luxist on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>St. Judest. jude childrens research hospitalst. jude medicalst. judesSuper Bowl XLVFri, 14 Jan 2011 20:02:00 EST