Camilo Villegas Getting Quite a Bit of Love From Nick Faldo
Camilo Villegas Getting Quite a Bit of Love From Nick Faldo
Well, so far, Camilo Villegas is giving one hell of mouthwatering performance at the Buick and although his participation isnt going to do much good for the Eagles for St. Jude program (as of this post, the kitten has only bagged one through 3 ½ rounds) he’s sitting pretty in more ways than one. Despite the fact that I’m not at the Buick (as I was scheduled to be)-it is indeed a delight to see his paws creeping across the wet greens as he hunts the elusive trophy. It is also a delight to watch it from home otherwise I’d be missing Nick Faldo and his comments.
If you’ve been watching the Buick on TV, then you know exactly what I’m talking about. Seriously-and without exaggerating- Faldo has used the following words to describe our sexy lawn crawler: Fit, cut, tone, phenomenal, sensational, strong, outstanding, flexible, limber, unbelievable, popular, stylish, improved, friendly and hot. Okay-so he didn’t say ‘hot’ but he might as well have. Faldo was also very quick to let us know that he’s the one who got Camilo into biking-and that Camilo is “very, very good at it” and would do “very well” in a 100-mile ride.
On Saturday, Villegas wasn’t performing as a proper kitten would on the 9th hole. He kept hitting it left or right-I don’t know, but there was a lot of heavy breathing coming from Faldo and friend. Luckily, we were giving a very welcome slow-mo video-analyses of Camilo’s swing…This is the running commentary as he was swinging: “In the PGA tour media guide, Camilo Villegas is listed 5’9 160, yet Camilo is one of the longest players on tour…he has very quiet knees, the net result of the quiet knees, he has quite hips-very little hip turn as he goes back-but at the top he still has coiled his shoulders fully- well past 90 degrees- as he starts back down, he increases that separation between his hips and shoulders, the amount of torque he puts on his core and the amount of rotation he gets is absolutely phenomenal. If you can be strong enough and flexible enough to get that degree of separation between your hips and shoulders as you change directions, then maybe you can hit it as far as Camilo…he will thrash it out of the rough, which is deep and gnarly” …
Naturally, my mind was in the gutter ready to be thrashed from the rough by those quiet hips and coiled shoulders while remaining flexible enough to hit it as far as he does…
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Mike Sweeney Lost in the Mix
A Reason to Smile About Baseball
Thanks to one of my readers, and a player, I found myself smiling about ‘baseball’ for the first time in years…Seattle Mariners’ Mike Sweeney has earned some serious mighty-mighty-good man love from me for organizing a baseball camp at Ontario High to raise funds for Michael Ortiz’s family.
According to an LA Times article, Sweeney has been dealing with health issues surrounding his own kids when he received a call from a student at Sweeney’s alma mater, Ontario High, asking if Sweeney would help organize a fundraiser for Michael Ortiz’s family- Michael was one of the school’s baseball players who had been among the nine killed in a Christmas Eve massacre in Covina.
“When I heard the story repeated to me; when they told me Michael valued himself as a student first and athlete second, like myself, and that he was a wonderful Catholic kid who lived his faith, it absolutely broke my heart,” Sweeney said. “When I held my 3-week-old baby in my hands all I could feel was his spine and ribs, he was shriveling away, below his birth weight of eight pounds. I didn’t really know what his disease was . . . I was a terrified father…I knew I was going through a crazy time, but someone had a heavier burden than me.”
Sweeny’s son Donovan had just undergone surgery for pyloric stenosis, a rare condition that stops food movement from the stomach to the small intestine…but Sweeney didn’t hesitate to organize a camp to benefit the Ortiz family. The camp was held yesterday, and so far more than $200,000 in donations have been secured. Additionally, an anonymous donor has declared he’ll double whatever the proceeds were for Saturday.
“The kind of person Mike Sweeney is, the way he conducts himself—that’s what’s made this possible,” said Ontario High Vice Principal Cary Wilborn, who said he has received checks from as far as Dubai. (LA TIMES)
And you can find our more info on Sweeney and his Foundation, the Mike and Shara Family Foundation HERE. According to their site, the foundation exists to bring youth into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ; to grow the ministry of Life Teen, an outreach to youth; to assist pro-life ministries, particularly crisis pregnancy centers; to bring unity between Catholics and Protestants; to host Christian baseball camps all across the country; to reach out to urban youth and urban missions; and to use music ministry to bring the Gospel to the lost.
I love a good Foundation, and while I may be one of the ‘Lost’, I still thank Mike Sweeney for giving me a little hope about the kind of men who still decorate the sport.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Adonal Foyle Putting His NBA Skills to Good Use
Adonal Foyle Putting His NBA Skills to Good Use
As I continue to snoop around the private lives of celebrities and athletes, I’m finding quite a few mighty-mighty good men who are sorely lacking in the publicity department. Case in point: Adonal Foyle. In 2006, he started the Kerosene Lamp Foundation to help ‘empower children in the Eastern Caribbean (and US) and give them the right tools to navigate life’s challenges.’
As a child, the Magic Baller grew up in the tiny island of Canouan, where he was raised by his grandmother and had to use a kerosene lamp for light while doing homework. After coming to the States, he lit up the Golden State Warriors (for ten seasons), and received numerous community service awards while remaining historically relevant to the team. (He is also the only player in Warriors history to have over 3,000 career blocks and over 1,000 career blocked shots.)
Now with the Magic, the baller and his foundation continue to give back Love and host numerous off-season pow-wows…Foyle returns home every year to St. Vincent and the Grenadines to hold his Athletics & Academics Island Camps (A & A Camps). To date, they’ve held 12 free basketball camps, which benefited over 1000 kids…In addition to teaching the kids how to shoot hoops- Foyle addressed such issues as healthy eating, HIV/AIDS prevention, and the importance of education.
His generosity is further enhanced by the fact that in 2001, he founded Democracy Matters, a non-partisan organization that gives students a voice in issues of democracy. DM is active on over 50 college campuses nationwide-encouraging hundreds of students to focus on issues of campaign finance reform…and as with most of the world, he celebrated the fact that Hot Stuff is our new President. Foyle’s Kerosene Lamp Foundation partnered up with Majella’s on the beach on Canouan Island and hosted 200 or so plus kids for a special Inauguration viewing party.
On behalf of all the baller loving fans who can only cheer for those doing good-thank you Adonal Foyle-we see you now.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Ryan Sheckler and His Foundation Are All Right By Me
Ryan Sheckler and His Foundation Are All Right By Me
Ryan Sheckler first caught my eye in 2003 after watching him do amazing things in the X Games…I put my finger on the pulse of his career and waited for the rest of the industry to catch up. Granted, Tony Hawk took notice way before I did (I’m not one to step on the godfather of skate’s toes)…next came a nod from the Sports Business Journal…then MTV sniffed him out and just like that, the kids a multimillionaire teen-aged heartthrob with his own TV show (Life of Ryan), throngs of squealing girls chasing after him and maybe, just maybe, he’s going to come out of this circus we call ‘fame’ with his morals in check.
The more athlete charity related events I cover, the more Sheckler pops up on my radar. The photos here are from the Mia Hamm/Nomar Garciaparra celebrity soccer event last month. Sheckler was one of the few guys to go into the stands and sign autographs. These two little girls waited patiently until Ryan noticed them, signed their soccer balls, then knelt down and signed their shirts. Not something I see very often from someone his age or of his caliber. And correct me if I’m wrong, but I haven’t seen much scandal associated with him. I’ve only seen a smiling skater loving life and giving back when he can. Seriously, he’s only what 19?
Anyway, for you Sheckler fans needing more, the young buck, along with his Ryan Sheckler Foundation, will be hosting ‘FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS’ (February 6, 2009, at 7pm) at the Grove at Anaheim. The evening will feature a multi-disciplined fight night with proceeds from this event benefiting Road 2 Recovery and TACA; Talk about Curing Autism. SCHEDULED TO FIGHT: Kit Cope (4 time Muay Thai Champion); Danny Abbadi (The Ultimate Fighter); Andy Wang (The Ultimate Fighter); Craig Wilkerson (The OC submission expert); & Jason Ellis (Professional skateboarder and Sirius radio host will be making this professional MMA debut) More to be announced…*fight card subject to change. Plus Special Musical Guest: LIL’ JON.
If you can’t make it to the event…how about some stylish support, which helps a great cause. The Sheckler Foundation supports causes benefiting children and injured action sports athletes…for a donation of $6.00 or more, they’ll send you a Sheckler Foundation-Down for Life bracelet. All the INFO HERE.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Michael Phelps Smokes Weed
Michael Phelps Smokes Weed
Michael Phelps is heating up the newswire with some wonderful news…he smokes weed. Yeah, stop the press right? Our Olympic poster-child got caught smoking out of a oh-god-NO- bong! (I pegged him for a joint kinda guy) Someone at the party snapped a photo, Phelps admitted it was him and then apologized: “I engaged in behavior which was regrettable and demonstrated bad judgment. I’m 23 years old and despite the successes I’ve had in the pool, I acted in a youthful and inappropriate way, not in a manner people have come to expect from me. For this, I am sorry. I promise my fans and the public it will not happen again.”
His favorite artist is Lil Wayne and your surprised he enjoys the herb? Regardless of what side of the bong you smoke from, smoking weed is a victimless crime…more people are killed by drunk drivers every year than by stoned drivers. But you don’t need a lecture. The only person losing out here is Phelps. He’ll lose some sponsors and some fans, but come on people, he’s as close to godly in the water as one can get, he’s physically close to perfection, he’s a nice guy, STILL has 8 Olympic gold’s and he’s still the same babe you LOVED yesterday when he was making you money. The only bad judgment by Phelps was smoking around people with cameras…
Who knows, maybe he’ll pick up a new sponsor? I mean, Michael Phelps just could be the answer NORML has been looking for.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
NADAL BRINGS FEDERER TO TEARS
NADAL BRINGS FEDERER TO TEARS
This is the first thing I read this morning on Yahoo:
Rafael Nadal held off Roger Federer in another momentum-swinging, five-set final to win the Australian Open on Sunday, keeping the Grand Slam singles record safe for now. After coming through the longest match in the tournament’s history to reach the championship match, Nadal needed 4 hours, 23 minutes Sunday to win 7-5, 3-6, 7-6 (3), 3-6, 6-2. Federer, who was trying to equal Pete Sampras’ 14 major titles, has lost to Nadal the last three times they’ve met in Grand Slam finals. The 27-year-old Swiss star couldn’t hold back tears at the presentation.
“Maybe I’ll try later. God, it’s killing me,” Federer said, sobbing. He returned to congratulate Nadal within minutes, saying: “You deserved it. You played a fantastic final.” Nadal collected the trophy and put his arm around Federer. “Roger, sorry for today. I really know how you feel right now,” Nadal said. “Remember, you’re a great champion, you’re one of the best in history.” He accepted the cup from Rod Laver, who was in Australia to mark the start of the 40th anniversary of the last Grand Slam season. “To receive this trophy from Rod Laver is a dream for me,” Nadal said. Federer, so dominant when he won three of the four majors in 2006 and 2007, has now lost finals on three different surfaces to Nadal. (Yahoo Sports)
First of all, I am going to relish this moment and say I told ya so. Federer- you can NOT beat Rafa if you don’t practice. Federer- you can NOT be one of the greatest if you don’t practice. Federer- you can NOT claim a title if you don’t practice. It’s really as simple as that. How many times have I ripped the Swiss Mister a new one because he’s out frolicking ala Hollywood-style cruising along on his fame while his Girlfriend manages his career? Historically, it’s a recipe for disaster. “Maybe I’ll try later. God, it’s killing me,” Federer said, sobbing. Maybe you’ll try later? Try what? To practice? Did you really think Rod Laver was gonna hand you the Sampras equalizing trophy just because you showed up? You gotta win first! Props to you though for recognizing that Rafael ‘deserved it’ and ‘played a fantastic final’. Hard to believe a compliment slipped passed those lips. Perhaps when we are at our lowest it’s easier to recognize the greatness in others?
The greatness that is Rafael Nadal never ceases to amaze me. From his grunts to his capri’s, the kid is a tennis machine. We are witnessing one of the most remarkable tennis careers to hit the courts, while at the same time witnessing the downfall of another. Sure, R-Fed could theoretically pull himself up by the boot-strings, hire a great agent and trainer, leave Mirka at home and focus on winning instead of jetting off to chill with other Gillette men who have also mysteriously lost career-traction…but would that even be enough? Doubt it. Nadal has remained focused…unshakable…determined…humble…and hot. He basically picks up where Federer leaves off.
And before I forget…Congratulations my precious Tapa! You want make me to be happy, no? Thank you Rafa for making this day about something more than the SuperBowl. Vamos for life you sexy little beast, Va-mos.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Football Charities Ain’t Got Nothing on Futbol Charities
Football Charities Ain’t Got Nothing on Futbol (Soccer) Charities
Go ahead…enjoy the SuperBowl. Yes, there are tons of charity related NFL par-tays going on…but to me, most seem a bit insincere and more geared towards great ‘photo-ops.’ Of course there are exceptions, however, my (football) SuperBowl isn’t about helmets and hot-spots, it’s about voodoo, balls that unify, kids, and some mighty-mighty-fine men.
One of the greatest things about soccer is the global culture that surrounds it. While most of us dislike hooligans, their absence would leave a gaping hole in the stadiums and a lot of ‘police’ outta jobs. Make shift hooligan jails are a staple at World Cup qualifiers and games, so I was really, really bummed to hear RadioShack has bowed out of sponsoring a Mexican newspapers promotion which would have undoubtedly filled a few hooligan-tanks to capacity when they figured out it didn’t work…Mexico is set to play their World Cup Qualifier against the U.S. on February 11…Mexico has not beaten the U.S. on American soil in 10 years (and they wont do it anytime soon), so…an advertisement in the sports daily ‘Record’ invited fans to clip coupons and redeem them at their local Radio Shack store for a voodoo-doll likeness of a U.S. player. The hope was that a little black magic might help Mexico break a decade of futility on the road versus its northern neighbor. (AP photo) An illustration showed a pair of scissors slicing off the leg of a doll in a U.S. jersey; the doll grimaced in pain with its arms covered in bruises, as stuffing leaked from its No. 10 jersey, stuck with pushpins. The newspaper was hoping that soccer fans would watch the match and “apply punishments to our rivals,” giving Mexico an edge to end a decade of winless play versus the Americans on U.S. soil. “Help end the losing streak so Mexico advances,” the ad read.
If voodoo did work the way I’d like it too, I would win the lottery. No, I wouldn’t buy myself a house, or a new car…wouldn’t dare purchase a Prada, pair Jimmy Choo’s or any other pricey luxury good to make myself feel worthy…the first thing I would do? Join the Great Football Give Away…last November, a group of volunteers traveled to some of the most rural parts of Uganda and hand delivered over 3,000 soccer balls and netballs to the kids. And who says money can’t buy love? The organization is teaming up with Alive and Kicking to buy their Zambian made balls which have aids and malaria awareness messages printed on them…they’re using them to spread awareness about malaria-which is the number one killer in the country…And here’s where my lotto winnings would come into play…the Great Football Giveaway is looking for volunteers to organize and run future projects. If you can take a 4-6 month career break, they’ll help you with all the details-including fundraising, project management, putting a team together and hand-delivering the balls yourself to kids in some of the poorest countries of the world…I want to do this BAD so if anyone out there wants my beach front house for four-to-six months while paying for me to travel to Africa and pass out soccer balls to the kids, let me know. (And yes, I’m dead serious.)
Another one of my favorite charity organizations, Right To Play, earned a massive donation from Zdano Chara (Boston Bruins) after winning the NHL’s Hardest Shot Competition at the All Star Weekend in Montreal on January 24th…the mighty fine beast won the competition with an All-Star Record of 105.4MPH and then promptly donated his winnings- $24,000- to Right To Play…too bad the IOC can’t think out side the box…(Wow, Delinda is having a flashback to all the hate-emails I got after ripping the IOC a new one last year…hope ya’all paying attention now.)
“Excluding the athlete-founded, athlete-driven Right To Play from the Athlete’s Village is a firm step backward for the Olympic movement. Right to Play is a humanitarian organization that uses sport to teach children about teamwork, fair play, conflict resolution, self-esteem, communication, commitment, respect and integrity. We firmly believe that this organization improves the lives of children by strengthening their vulnerable communities with the best practices of sport and play. And it creates opportunities to promote development, health and peace. I believe this act of exclusion violates the fundamental values of the Olympic movement.” Adam Kreek, Olympic Rowing Gold Medalist 2008, London, Ont.
What makes me really, really sad-is that this incredibly moving and poignant video has been posted on YouTube for over a year and has only been viewed 3,225 times. What a sad commentary on society…in any case, we may be able to help change that by coming up with a catchy moniker to grab some media attention for them. RTP is running a competition to highlight the studly attempt of a student by the name of Duncan Drew, who will try to run 30 MARATHONS IN THIRTY DAYS this August to benefit Right To Play. This is a world record attempt and will be receiving a lot of media attention…so help ‘em out by coming up with a catchy phrase to garner as much attention as possible for this event. The more support Duncan gets, the happier the disadvantaged children in Africa, Asia and the Middle East will be. What should they call it?
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Charity Poker Events Hosted by Harman
Charity Poker Events Hosted by Harman
As I was driving back from LA last weekend, a friend of mine said “Jennifer who” after I mentioned Harman. For those out of the poker-loop, Jennifer Harman is the only woman to hold TWO WSOP bracelets, granted, I’m straying from my usual ‘hot pro athletes only’ on my blog because Jen is hosting two celebrity poker events that deserve some love and will-without question-attract some smoking hot babes from the sports world. The first ‘Charity Poker Tournament’ is on my birthday, March 11. Unfortunately, the proceeds wont go to me but will benefit The National Kidney Foundation. The fun starts at 11am at the Grand Sierra Resort, Reno, Nevada…joining her will be Howard Lederer, Andy Bloch, Lee Watkinson, Roy Winston, Lee Markholt, professional poker players, and celebrities to be announced soon…which my libido translates as dear god I hope Antonio Esfandiari and Phil Laak are there cuz I need a lil fix.
But perhaps the most anticipated event Harman’s hosting is her Charity Poker Tournament Benefiting the Nevada SPCA. (Friday, 17 April, 4 P.M., The Venetian, Las Vegas). Included in the schedule of events are a red carpet walk with celebrities and animal companions, a silent auction, media party, a raffle, and video presentation. All proceeds benefit the Nevada SPCA…It’s not expensive to play in the event-and last years’ winner entered the tournement after adopting a pet at the SPCA. Yeah-how cute is that? More details as they are released and by visiting GREASIE WHEELS.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Celebrities Hit the Saddle Ranch for Charity
Celebrities Hit the Saddle Ranch for Charity
Yesterday at the Saddle Ranch Chop House in LA, I hit up the ‘Babes on the Bull’ event to benefit P.L.A.Y. (www.playforkids.org). Tons of celebrities were there to support the cause-bringing friends and packing the place to capacity with the general public who were invited in for free. Aside from ‘LA’s hottest girls” riding the mechanical bull, live entertainment included fire dancers (Fire Groove) and a live auction. Items up for bids included amazing seats at a Lakers game, VIP booths at LA’s hippest spots, golf rounds, Dodgers tickets and others. The coolest thing about the auction was that everyone entering the Ranch received a hundred-bucks (voucher) to use towards auction items.
Celebrities who leant their name and time to the cause included: Backstreet Boy A.J. McLean; AnnaLynne McCord (90210); sexy as hell and well coordinated D.J. D-Wrek (MTV’s Wild n Out); Warrant front man Jani Lane; Leonard Robinson (MTV Wild n Out); Claudia Jordon; David Faustino (Married w/Children, STAR-VING); Gladiator Romeo; Corey & Susie Feldman and a few others which I’ll get to in a minute.
Ideally, I’d give you all the quotes I received but I’m gonna pare it down and give props and spankings to those who I feel deserve it. First up, gotta give massive props to (yeah) Corey Feldman and his wife Susie. Admittedly, I was a bit surprised to learn that Corey has been in 15 number 1 movies-all of which grossed over $50M each. Pretty impressive if you ask me. But what was even more impressive was his attitude-and that of his wife. They were the most energetic couple to walk the red carpet. Both wore huge smiles and possessed a sincere attitude towards ‘helping the kids’. The couple gets a five start rating from me in terms of charity work-especially after I overheard Susie say to one of the reporters “Didn’t we see you at the Autism event?”
Another one who gave me a few warm fuzzies was David Faustino. He spoke prior to the event; “I figured I’d come out today and support the cause” he said ”I live in the neighborhood, so you know, I give a little cheer, a little money, you know-promote, the whole package…I’ve ridden bulls here before but I’ve always been drunk, so if I do it would be my first sober attempt at riding the bull.” Interesting also to hear him speak about the contents of his iPod. “I listen to a lot of hip hop, but I don’t like the state of hip-hop necessarily today and I don’t listen to all of it but right now Kings of Leon I really like a lot.” The ‘Married with Children’ actor has a new show on the Internet called ‘STAR-VING’. “It’s a show that I created with my partners that is basically based on our own lives but we really exaggerate it to make fun of ourselves and turn the volume up to eleven,” he said, “We premiered on Crackle.com which is a Sony Pictures Television website. In the first few episodes I got the entire Married With Family cast reunion, it’s just a funny, funny show-very offensive, very rude and crude. Some people will love it and some people will hate it.” Be warned kids-its not for everyone but I found it funny, fresh and every bit as Anti-Entourage as Faustino has described it. As a fan of STAR-VING, I had to know what to expect in future episodes. “As you know we had the whole Married with Children cast on. Then we have Gilbert Godfry this season, we have a Growing Pains reunion with Alan Thicke and Jeremy Miller, Tracy Gold. And Ron Jeremy makes an appearance in an episode that’s been banned from YouTube.” The inquiring mind of a crazy redheaded blogger also had to know if Faustino was going to add any ‘washed-up’ athletic talent to the show. “How about Dennis Rodman” I asked. Faustino seemed to mull it over as he said “Really? You want Dennis Rodman? I’ll see what I can do for you”. Damn straight I do, Faustino, damn straight.
And finally, on a funny note-but still saying thanks for lending your name to a good cause- was Shawn Stewart. As you know, I’m sometimes ‘celebrity’ challenged and had no idea that Shawn is Rod Stewarts son. After doing a bit of research, I couldn’t stop laughing. Granted, Shawn looked adorable in his hoodie and black eye but it wasn’t until I got home that I read that Stewart is “one of the stars of the A&E cable show Sons of Hollywood” and “was arrested” after a couple claimed “Stewart and others riding in a Rolls-Royce Phantom confronted them, then began punching and throwing bricks at them and their vehicle outside the April 22 party.” The wild-child was wearing some UFC gear, so I’m going to assume that the black eye is the product of a newfound hobby and not another run-in with the law?
There’s a link to all my photos on my events page.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Catching Up with Dikembe Mutombo
Catching Up with Dikembe Mutombo
Don’t get excited-when I write ‘catching up with Mutombo’ I don’t mean I was blessed to meet the big guy-trust me, when I get an interview with him you’ll be the first to know…for now, we’ll have to settle for a great piece from SI.com. (The photo is from Vanity Fair 2007)
Our finger wagging baller has been a very busy humanitarian-as I’ve said before, Deke is a humanitarian first and baller second…and once again, his efforts trump most. His Mutombo basketball kicks by Peak will be released soon-they include his No. 55 and a logo of his finger wagging back and forth. “By the time I retire, I want to see if I can have a shoe that can be sold in Africa that will allow every African child to have the shoes at the low cost of $15 to $20. So every parent can afford to put the shoes on the feet of their kids” he said. Dare I say ‘Yes You Can’? And with much better success than we’ve seen from other-ballers-and-their-low-cost-shoes-sold-at-places-that-go-out-of-business-and-you-don’t-back-it-up with-actions-anyway…but who am I to knock someone for trying…
Deke’s Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital has been open for just over a year. “We have celebrated the first year of the opening Dec. 7,’’ he says, “We celebrate the first year when the world is crashing. Economically the world is crashing, spiritually the world is crashing. There is war all over the places right now, in Africa, in the Middle East, in Southeast Asia. We have to stay strong, to continue to do God’s work. Otherwise all of these people will perish.’’ An American consulting firm has told Mutombo that the hospital may become self-sustaining within another three years. This year, he says, the hospital is in need of $2 million to remain open. “If 100,000 people will each donate $20 to the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, we will have $2 million to give treatment to women and children and the oldest people who are dying every day from malaria. There is a child dying in Africa every 35 seconds. Last year alone more than 2.5 million children died in Africa because of malaria. It costs maybe $10 to treat each person. So imagine when somebody is donating $20, he is already saving the life of a child at the hospital.’’
This is really a simple request from Deke…just 20 bucks. Yeah, the economy sucks. Yeah twenty bucks is a lot of money to some people. But maybe next time you fork over $4.20 for a ‘no-whip grande cap with extra bullshit’ you’ll think about the fact the your spare change can save a life…if not, then your on the wrong blog.
Event Notice
This Sunday at the Saddle Ranch Chophouse on Sunset Boulevard (Los Angeles), LA’s hottest women are going to ride the mechanical bull for charity. Yes I will be there-and no-while I am the queen of (a-hem) bull rider, I will not be riding the bull…I will be interviewing the celebrities in attendance and taking lots of photos…Babes on the Bull…hope to see you kids there.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Shane Battier Reads to Achieve, Tayshaun Donates to Kids Kicking Cancer, Grizzlies Give Kids New Shoes (Or What We’ll Never See Lebron Doing)
A FEW OF MY OFF-COURT NBA ALL STARS
Generally, you’ll have me at ‘Rockets’ due to the number of good-guys on the roster…and yesterday one of those mighty-mighty-fine men, Shane Battier, was at the Children’s Museum in Houston. At first I was certain that he had been “added” as an exhibit until I saw him reading to the kids and learned that he was there for the Read to Achieve event. Little to no media coverage so I thought I’d do it here. The NBA’s Read to Achieve program is a year-round campaign which helps young people develop a life-long love for reading…which isnt really too hard when you got guys like Shane reading to you.
And pinky props to Piston Tayshaun Prince (and his wife Farah) for chanting the mantra ‘Power, Peace, Purpose’, after presenting a scholarship check for $2,500 to Kids Kicking Cancers as part of the Pistons Read to Achieve Tour.
Just a lil love for Grizzlies Mike Conley, Rudy Gay, Elliot Perry, Kyle Lowry and Hakim Warrick for taking part in the Samaritan’s feet shoe distribution at Street Ministries yesterday in Memphis…actually, I’m giving more than just a lil love to these guys because they not only fitted kids for sneakers, but also handed out kicks to the kids AND (gulp) even washed their feet. This is the first time I’ve ever come across any of our ballers or athletes actually washing kids’ feet. (Like to see Lebron do that)…again, massive hugs to the Grizzlies.
Hope to see you here: Tomorrow is the 2009 Mia Hamm and Nomar Garciaparra Celebrity Soccer Challenge to benefit bone marrow patient and family services at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the Mia Hamm Foundation. Celebrities expected: Nomar Garciaparra [LA Dodgers], Mia Hamm [Soccer Hall of Famer], Tony hawk, Maksim Chmerkovski, Misty May-Treanor, Kerri Walsh, Zachary Levi, Josh Henderson, C. Thomas Howell, Ryan Sheckler, Sal Masekela, Marcus Allen, Benji Madden, Angus T. Jones, Dule Hill, Anthony Lapaglia, Andrea Bowen, Chris Richardson, Josh Hutchenson, Jimmy Jean-Louis, Rivers Cuomo, members of the U.S. Olympic Men’s and Women’s Soccer Teams and many others. Home Depot Center, 18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, CA.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
All Stars for Hope Soccer Event
ALL STARS FOR HOPE
On June 14 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford New Jersey, some of the hottest men in Euro soccer are taking the field for the ALL STARS FOR HOPE charity game to benefit Mikael Silvestri’s Schools for Hope. Silvestri is a French defender who kicks it for Arsenal-but he’s all right in my book…he’s on a quest to build schools around the world-so far completing several in Guinea and Niger…
“When my children first started to go to school I realized that education is the basis for a better life for poor children everywhere in the world,” Silvestre said. “I said to myself that I want to act, I want to be involved, with my own money. The focus is not on football at these schools, it is getting a good education, basic skills and professional skills, so the students are able to go out and get a good job.”
All Stars for Hope could have easily been named ‘Hotties for Hope’ as it includes (in addition to Silvestre); Thierry Henry (France/Barcelona), Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast/Chelsea), Wayne Rooney (England/Manchester United), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal/Man-United), Nicolas Anelka (France/Chelsea), Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo/Arsenal), Manuel Almunia (Spain/Arsenal), Frank Lampard (England/Chelsea), Ryan Giggs (Wales/Manchester United) and others.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Dikembe Mutombo Party With A Purpose
Dikembe Mutombo Party With A Purpose
Party with a purpose…indeed. Dikembe Mutombo is hosting a big pre-inauguration bash in DC next week, January 19, to benefit his Foundation. The party starts at 6PM at Eyebar located at 1716 I St NW. The event will feature 250 of DC’s Most Socially-Conscious Young Professionals-including Dave Chappelle, live DJ, and complimentary open bar from 6-7pm. But tickets here…DMF PARTY and to all the sponsors breaking down my door-yes, I would love to go!
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Inaugurate With Carmelo Anthony as his Foundation is Honored, Hoop It Up with Snoop Dogg, Bid on Kurt Warner’s Ball and Hope Phelps Auctions His Speedo
Inaugurate With Carmelo Anthony as his Foundation is Honored, Hoop It Up with Snoop Dogg, Bid on Kurt Warner’s Ball and Hope Phelps Auctions His Speedo
With President Hot-Stuff ready to be sworn-in, the East Coast parties are being announced. It kills me that I cant be right up in the middle of D.C. for all the action…yes, Jay-Z is hosting a gala-but the event I would chew-my arm off to get to is being thrown by Perennial Sports and Entertainment…included in their “Party With a Purpose: An Inauguration Celebration” series of events is a special night recognizing Carmelo Anthony’s Foundation (as well as Ne-Yo’s Compound Foundation). Details: FRIDAY, JANUARY 16: Denver Nuggets superstar Carmelo Anthony, Grammy Award Winner singer/songwriter Ne-Yo and PSE join to present Artists and Athletes for a Cause. PSE will recognize the Carmelo Anthony Foundation and Ne-Yo’s Compound Foundation and honor the organizations’ efforts to address the challenges facing our nation’s youth. Who: NBA superstar Carmelo Anthony, Honored Guest R&B Recording Artist Ne-Yo, Honored Guest Former MTV Veejay, Lala Vazquez, Host BET and Political Commentator Jeff Johnson, Host. When: 6:45-11 pm Where: House of Sweden, 2900 K St, NW, Washington, DC.
If you live in So-Cal or find yourself in Compton this weekend, you might wanna throw down ten bucks to help out ‘The Stepping Stone’-a new youth center in Compton which helps local kids by teaching ‘em sports and arts and offers academic tutoring. The building has been under construction for sometime and needs just a bit more money to finish it up before it opens this Spring. This event’s garnered a ton of celebrity athletes support, most notably my favorite local Snoop Dogg…joining the Snoop: Warren G, Lil Eazy E, Allen Payne (“House of Payne”), Arlen Escarpeta (“American Dreams”), Brian McKnight, Los Angeles Sparks coach Michael Cooper, two-time NBA All-Star Champion and former Los Angeles Laker Norman Nixon, WNBA Champion and All-Star Game MVP Los Angeles Sparks Center Lisa Leslie, and former NBA players Khalid Reeves (Chicago Bulls Guard), Pooh Richardson (Los Angeles Clippers Point Guard), and Byron Russell (Los Angeles Lakers and Denver Nuggets Shooting Guard). The game will take place at 4 p.m. at Compton High School (601 S. Acacia Avenue Compton). Tickets are $10 and can be purchased on the day or by phone at (877) 689-7717.
If you’re a regular, you know I’m a huge supporter of Celebrity Fight Night. Last years honored ‘celebrity’ was LaDainian Tomlinson…this year the Muhammad Ali Sports Leadership Award goes to Kurt Warner. (Check out event details on my calendar of events page). CFN is being held on March 28 in Phoenix, and if the gods are smiling upon me, I will be there again this year because (gulp) they just announced that Michael Phelps is going to be awarded the Muhammad Ali Sports Achievement Award. Additionally, Warner will be featured on a limited-edition commemorative football being produced to help the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The footballs will be available for $99.00 each and only 2,009 will be made…to get one call 800-345-2868 or check out nikosports.com….I am now awaiting word on weather or not Michael Phelps will auction off one of his Speedo’s to benefit my libido. The sexy eight-time gold medallist is currently at a promotional event in Beijing as the spokesperson for Mazda…seen here holding up a Chinese character “Niu” or Ox to mark the upcoming Lunar New Year of the Ox.
As always, thanks for reading. Delinda@athlebrities.com
Celebrity Athletes in 2008
Celebrity Athletes in 2008
2008 has been a great year for some of our favorites. Yes, I made a vow to take the month off but unfortunate I can’t stay away…too many of our guys are out there playing Santa, making cookies with kids and spreading the holiday cheer…I couldn’t possibly cover all the action, just a few memorable moments that made my estrogen spike and my man question my sanity…
Rafa is sitting tight at number one after sending the Swiss Mister down the rankings ladder and finally clinching his spot atop the world rankings…Our kitten Camilo Villegas grabbed a few headlines, several trophies and a shit load of estrogen en route to 2009…Lewis Hamilton became the youngest champion in Formula One history and owned the word “class” while kicking ass in the face of racism…we fell in love with Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt while raising awareness for genocide…Men’s USA Basketball did us proud and brought home the gold…and we, the people, elected one of the hottest ballers alive to be Our President. All in all, I would say a mighty good year.
Ideally, I would elaborate on Carmelo Anthony’s ‘Very Melo Holiday Event’ which was held in Denver…however, I am at a loss for words. Only one comes to mind…Geez-Us. Carmelo Cares people and don’t ever doubt it. “It’s important to me to make a significant impact on the communities that have positively affected me. My family and I are committed to growing my Foundation so that we can continue to help families in need.”
Another Nugget up to do-gooding…Chauncey Billups, along with Ray and Rodney Billups-spread some holiday cheer during a holiday event for families at the Hiawatha Davis Rec Center in Denver.
Shane Battier gets mad props for helping this little kid from Casa De Esperanza pick out some toys during the Houston Rockets Season of Giving in Houston…and gotta give a massive hug to the most underrated ‘giver’ in the League-Ron Artest…Ron-Ron made cookies during the Rockets event and passed out gifts along with Luther Head, Carl Landry and Joey Dorsey…
And this is the fifth year in a row that the NBA has teamed up with ‘Feed the Children’… This years event in Detroit saw five Pistons Kwame Brown, Allen Iverson, Jason Maxiell, Tayshaun Prince and Rasheed Wallace stepping in as the Fab-Five for this years ‘Miracle in Motown’ where they fed five thousand families…For me, the Pistons embody something that transcends basketball. Off the top of my head I can’t think of any controversy, jail time or scandal involving the Motown boys that would deem them unworthy of praise, so correct me if I’m wrong-until then, they get my vote for sincerity, good will and never saying no when asked to help others.
Have a safe and happy holiday season…remember to check out all the celebrity philanthropy we’re covering at Look to the Stars…have a rocking new year, hug a child and I’ll see ya in (yikes) ’09.
As always, thanks for reading.
Delinda Lombardo
Tattoos, Obama, Land Mines, Dry Ice, A Very Sad Swiss Mister and a Naked Tapa?
Tattoos, Obama, Land Mines, Dry Ice, A Very Sad Swiss Mister and a Naked Tapa?
My libido is clashing with my goal to write about charity stuff…so I defer to my hormones…yes, I am still crushing hard on Obama…and I’m loving the support our sexy new Prez is getting from some of our balling babes…Wizards beast Gilbert Arenas got some cool ink on his digits…talk about creating a ‘let-your-fingers-do-the-walking’ fantasy (post-manicure pa-leeze!)…but perhaps my favorite tribute (to date) comes from Sweet Melon who’s got my marshMelo’s standing at full attention. Not sure what he said because he keeps licking his lips and distracting me…
Poor Roger Federer
Despite the dry ice and on court massage, Roger Federer could not get by Andy Murray. Day six of the ATP Masters Cup in Shanghai…Murray won the match 4-6, 7-6, 6-4 to eliminate Federer from the tournament…seriously; I am starting to feel kinda bad for the Swiss Mister…
Baltic Soccer Stadium
I, for one, would think twice about attending the Baltic Arena soccer stadium in Poland…the stadium is being built for the Euro 2012 Cup but prior to any building being done, they sent out a gaggle of “sappers’ from an explosives company to test the ground for any remaining World War II explosives…And to everyone in Poland who didn’t think this was funny, I meant no disrespect. Trust me, even if they did NOT send in the “sappers” I would still attend a Euro Cup match in the stadium!
Enjoy the weekend…maybe go for a sail? While I’m not one to run photos of our hotties naked, I cant help but post this one of Rafael Nadal ala natural…vamos indeed.
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As always, thanks for reading.
Delinda Lombardo
Million Dollar Hawk: Tony Hawk That is.
Million Dollar Hawk: Tony Hawk That is.
In 2002, Tony Hawk established the Tony Hawk Foundation to assist low-income communities create well-designed skateboard parks. Over the years, the Foundation has given away over a million dollars in grants and assistance…and last weekend, action-sports legends joined Hawk for the fifth annual Activision Presents ‘Stand Up For Skateparks.’ All in all, the event raised over $1M big ones for T-Hawks Foundation.
The shindig went down at an exclusive estate in Beverly Hills, with attendees including Shaun White (L), Anthony Kiedis, David Spade, Perry Ferrell, Chris “BigBlack” Boykin, Kathy Ireland, Bam Margera, BMX legend Mat Hoffman, Jamie Lee Curtis (far right with Andy Macdonald) and Mia Hamm©.
The one-day-action-sports carnival even included a special acoustic performance by Social Distortion, and a Vert Demo on Hawk’s personal ramp-where he was joined by White, Bucky Lasek, Andy Macdonald, Kevin Staab, and BMX riders John Parker and Dennis McCoy.
But Tony Hawk never seems to stop donating and building his empire at the same time. Bidding is open for Hawks Jeeps being auctioned off for his foundation…(photos by Jody Morris and Colin Vincent)…and just today it was announced that Hawk has teamed up with NBTY, a leading children’s vitamin supplier…the company has created the Tony Hawk HuckJam brand of vitamins. The chewy gummy vitamins are shaped like miniature skateboard decks, skateboard wheels and Tony’s signature hawk skull…aside from being fun to chew on, they are said to provide a good source of 11 vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and Vitamin B-12…
New events have been added on the celebrity athletes’ charity events calendar page including the Suns Celebrity Waiters event, and more importantly-Carmelo Anthony’s Thanksgiving event-which I’ll write about as soon as I’m done having a Sweet Melon heart-attack.
It never gets old…
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As always, thanks for reading.
Delinda Lombardo
WATCH CARMELO ANTHONY CUT HIS HAIR
MELO’S HAIRCUT ON VIDEO
Seriously…before the coffee even made it passed my lips I was transferred back to dreamland thanks to this video of Carmelo Anthony getting his haircut. THE haircut. Geez-U this kid is gonna kill me…all messy hair, licking his lips, laughing…playing NBA Live…and then…he is shorn. Delinda has a bounty out on Melo’s hair if anyone’s gotta tress to toss my way…the video is almost perfection in terms of Melo eye candy. Ok, it is perfection…I guess it stung when LaLa entered the scene and jolted me back to reality.
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Delinda Lombardo
DC Athletes Growing Facial Hair for Charity; Courtside Celebrities Decorate Staples Center and Phil Mickelson Gets Lip Service from Sergio Garcia
Creative Way to Raise Money?
Money may not grow on trees, but it might grow on the faces of several DC athletes. X Games babe Travis Pastrana, along with Ryan Smith, Lindsey Robertson, Devun Walsh, Dane Reynolds, Nate Adams, Allan Cooke, Chad Kagy, Corey Bohan, Mike Clark and Ken Block have all agreed to grow a “Mo” this month while raising money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Movember (www.movember.com) is an annual charity movement where men lose their facial hair inhibitions and commit to grow and groom a Mo (Aussie slang for moustache) for the entire month while collecting donations for the Prostate Cancer Foundation…and for those woman cringing at the idea of a Mo on a man, think twice. My choice for hottest Mo to grace a face goes to Scot Pollard (above) of the Boston Celtics. Dude rocked the hell outta his Mo. (Pollard is not part of the MO growing movement, the photo is simply to illustrate how fine a Mo can be.)
We all know David Beckham would rock a Mo as well. Golden Balls kicked it courtside with Marc Anthony during the Lakers-Clippers game at Staples Center last night…other notable faces in the Lakers crowd included actor the Game© and his precious offspring, Jonah Hill, Andy Garcia and Will Ferrell®.
Pretty sure Sergio Garcia doesn’t have the sex appeal to officially sport a Mo…Sergio the ‘Spitter’ Garcia is now terrorizing Phil Mickelson-declaring he wants to replace him as the world’s second best golfer by taking his HSBC Champions title this week…whatever Sergio. I love it when you tease Tiger, but step off my homeboy Phil…who I only mention because he’s hustling on the greens alongside my flashkat Ian Poulter and Burberry babe Adam Scott-who would both look exceptional with a Mo.
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As always, thanks for reading.
Delinda Lombardo
PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA CELEBRATED WORLDWIDE
PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA CELEBRATED WORLDWIDE
It wasn’t even close…349-147. When CNN called the election and declared Barack Obama the winner of the 44th Presidential election, it wasn’t just this country celebrating, it was a victory heard around the world.
It was a victory celebrated from the streets of Harlem to the ghettos of Mumbai. It was a victory celebrated among remote villages in Africa to the corners of Kuwait. It was a victory not just for this country, but for peace, for change and for the greater good.
Had McCain won this election, I strongly suspect that the smiling faces we see around the globe this morning would be plastered with disappointment instead of hope. But we did it. We spoke up for a new era. We put our foot down on the dirty hands that have soiled the government and charred the reputation of this country. It has been a long time since I felt proud of being an American. And today I am.
People marching through the streets in foreign countries proudly waving an American flag? Absolutely incredible.
Gotta give mini props to Grandpa though, his speech was fairly impressive-despite the boo’s from his camp each time he said “Obama.” I really hope that those who didn’t vote Obama can see the bigger picture. I hope they can see we’ve elected a man with the potential to put this country back at the forefront of humanity. A man who can reestablish us as fair and righteous, not shallow and despised.
We have the whole world rejoicing along with us…it is indeed a beautiful time to celebrate. But as we do, it’s important to be sensitive to those who have yet to join our camp. There are gonna be a lot of haters attempting to spread hate. Combat them with love…eventually, with enough information, they too may see the truth and get an e-ticket ride to Woodstock Obamastock.
And keeping up with the backbone of my blog-celebrity athletes- please check out ‘Ballers 4 Barack.’
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As always, thanks for reading.
Delinda Lombardo