NFL Superstar Shawne Merriman hosted the 3rd Annual “ Lights On Bowl” celebrity charity event at Lucky Strike Lanes in Hollywood on December 1, 2008.  This charity event was one that Merriman holds close to his heart.  “I’ve been homeless at many points in my life, and now I am in a position to give back.”  “Get ready for a lot of good bowling” Merriman said.

NFL Superstar Shawne Merriman getting ready to bowl that strike!

The Lights On Foundation helps to support charitable organizations throughout the country, including “ Feeding America” and “ Stand Up for Kids”. 

Lights On Foundation lit up the entire place

From the support of the Lights On Foundation, “ Feeding America” provides meals for 25 million Americans, including 9 million children.  Statistics show that in our country, 13 children die on the streets everyday.  “ Feeding America” has over 206 food banks across the United States.  Three dollars can be turned into 18 meals. 

“ Stand Up For Kids” mission is to help homeless and street kids.  Their mission is carried out by volunteers who go out into the streets to find, stabilize and help street kids improve their lives.  They also provide deterrence and resource programs that are carried out in schools as well as over the internet. 

Actress Luenell was once homeless as well.  She shared her story of struggle with everyone out the red carpet.  She recalls eating from 7-11 for a dollar if she had it.  “I know what it is like and I wanted to be here to support the world and Shawne’s cause,” she commented.

Actress Luenell telling her story about when she faced homelessness

Actor David Arquette said, “One dollar means the world.  It is important to not make it just a holiday thing.  Keep the giving alive”.  There are always people in need of food.  In fact, there is a 20-40% increase in the food lines this year.  One in eight Americans struggle, and have to deal with the reality of not being able to afford much food.

David Arquette

Throughout the evening, there was a lot of bowling!  Food and drinks were served.  Mouthwatering steak skewers, potstickers and gourmet pizzas were among the goodies.  One of the sponsors was PowerAde, which created a great addition to the many cocktails being served.  Square Cupcakes provided a complimentary array of cupcakes.

Square Cupcakes

After a wonderful and heart-felt speech by Jay Glazer, Shawne Merriman, Luenell, David Arquette and Rick Coco, a live auction was held.  One of the highlights of the live auction, were courtside tickets to the Lakers game.  The evening also included a silent auction, which included many sports memorabilia items as well as some great gifts.

Jay Glazer giving a speech

Some of the silent auction items

Lucky Strike Lanes was the perfect place to host the event.  The state of the art bowling facility has been in existence since 2003, with the Hollywood location being the first venue to open.  It is located inside the Hollywood and Highland Complex.  The cosmic bowling and neon lighting was a bit hit, with not one lane unattended.  Strike after strike, everyone was having an enjoyable time for a good cause.

The attendance at the event was great!

Some in attendance of the event were celebrities such as: NFL Superstar Shawne Merriman, Actor David Arquette, Chris Harrison, FOX Sports Analyst Jay Glazer, Singer/Model CC Fontana, Katie Gill, TJ Storm, Musician and son of Bob Marly Rohan Marley, TV and Radio Personality Frankie Needles, Norwood Young, Omar Benson Miller, Dollicia Bryant, Kathy West, Actor Ten Travis, Actor Brandon Molale, Actor Jerry Farrara, Actress Luenell and many more!

The host, Shawne Merriman on the red carpet

Actor Jerry Farrara and Shawne Merriman on the red carpet

At the end of the evening, everyone received a Nike gift bag.  On top of the bag, inside goodies included sweatbands, a travel mug and a football.

Some of the celebrities in attendance

For more information about the Lights On Foundation, or to make a donation, please go to www.shawnemerriman.com, www.feedingamerica.org or www.standupforkids.org

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