Beverly Hills, CA -- Holly Madison, Aubrey O’Day, Shanna Moakler, Bridget Marquardt and Jai Rodriguez appeared at the House of Blues on the Sunset Strip to crown the first ever California “Entertainer of the Year” (EOY) as celebrity judges. Hosted by Alec Mapa, the renowned pageant celebrating female illusionists made its first stop in Hollywood after 20 years.
During the event, guests could bid on exclusive items at the HEEL HATE silent auction, benefiting the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Celebrities including Jennifer Aniston, Ellen DeGeneres, Shania Twain, Lea Michele, Judith Light, Joan Collins and more donated their personal signed high heels and shoes for the auction.
True to its tradition, EOY proceeds were donated to causes that focus on GLBT rights. The night’s beneficiaries included the NoH8 Campaign and The Matthew Shepard Foundation, receiving a $15,000 donation at the end of the evening.
“We are extremely honored to be part of this historical evening and hope we can continue to work with California EOY in the future,” expressed Andrew Tweedie, Development Director for The Matthew Shepard Foundation. “This is not an event we will soon forget.”
A surprise performance highlight amongst so many fantastic entertainers and dancers was recording artist Tiffany, who got the crowd out of their chairs performing her anthem I Think We’re Alone Now. Guest speaker Calpernia Adams reminded everyone that hate crimes based on sexual orientation still happen and NoH8 and the Matthew Shepard Foundation still need strong support.
After several rounds of competition, with each performing taking the stage in stunning make up and fabulous outfits, performer Shangela walked away with the bedazzled crown.
“I am thrilled to be the first ever California ‘Entertainer of the Year,’” Shangela emotionally declared from the stage. “I plan on representing California proudly at the national EOY pageant in July.”
First runner-up, and competing in the national competition should Shangela not be available, was 20-year female illusionist veteran Chad Michaels who thought the pageant was an amazing experience. “I encourage any aspiring competitors to follow their dreams next year when the contest returns.”
Prior to the event, celebrities were welcomed to the NoH8 VIP Cocktail Reception at the House of Blues exclusive Foundation room. Celebrity photographer, and NoH8 founder, Adam Bouska offered the audience a chance to participate in his signature NoH8 photo campaign.
Remaining auction items are available for bid at charitybuzz.com. The online auction benefiting the Matthew Shepard Foundation ends on January 27th.
For more information contact Nicole Walther, Metro PR 310.601.3211 or Nicole@metropublicrelations.com
About Entertainer of the Year
The Entertainer of the Year contest system is owned by the SLS Pride Foundation Inc., a non-profit Arts and Humanities foundation dedicated to the betterment of Diverse Cultures, and features the best female illusionists.
About Matthew Shepard Foundation
The Matthew Shepard Foundation was founded by Dennis and Judy Shepard in memory of their 21-year old son, Matthew, who was murdered in an anti-gay hate crime in Wyoming in October 1998. Created to honor Matthew in a manner that was appropriate to his dreams, beliefs and aspirations, the Foundation seeks to "Replace Hate with Understanding, Compassion & Acceptance" through its varied educational, outreach and advocacy programs and by continuing to tell Matthew's story.
About NoH8
The NoH8 campaign is a photo project and silent protest against the passing of Proposition 8 banning same sex marriage, created by celebrity photographer Adam Bouska and parent Jeff Parshley. More details at http://www.noh8campaign.com/
