toys for tots Archives - The Knockturnal

The Knockturnal attended the ‘Almost Hanukkah’ party at Genghis Cohen in LA, celebrating the 75th anniversary of Toys for Tots, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing gifts to children in need.

The lively event gained momentum with energetic performances from Princess Cyberspace, Brett and Dan, Tony Kaye, Talia Lava, “Call me by my Hebrew name” Abby Feldman, and up-and-coming artist Ethan Danto.

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VIP guests in attendance included Adam Swig, Founder and Executive Director of Value Culture, Jimmie Fails, starring actor in ‘The Last Black Man in San Francisco,’ Tony Kaye, the director of ‘American History X,’ actor and comedian Abby Feldman, comedian and television personality Scott Rogowsky, and Dan Marino Jr.

The successful evening was hosted by Value Culture, a non-profit on a mission to produce cultural and philanthropic events that give back to the community and inspire others to do the same.

Holiday spirit still lingers on top of Hollywood after Katie Welch and Jordan Kuker’s 8th annual Toys for Tots spectacular. With special appearances by youtube sensation Gigi Gorgeous along with Adam Lambert wrapping up some amazing holiday singing performances, the party was a show-stopping event.

We arrived to the beautiful Yamashiro Hollywood restaurant and were immediately floored by how beautiful the venue was. The restaurant sits above all of Hollywood with spectacular view that wraps around the whole exterior. We were escorted by staff to a seperate room on the side of the restaurant with a red carpet outside. On the carpet we watched as many celebrities dropped off their toys in the Toys for Tots bins before having a few photos snapped. Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve which distributes toys to children who don’t receive gifts for Christmas. Once we entered inside the venue we were met with an amazing sushi buffet, hot chocolate bar, and photo booth amongst other fun things. Guests enjoyed SNAX-Sational Brands’ Candy Pop and Cookie Pop’s two new original holiday flavors Cookie Pop Popcorn Iced Gingerbread and Candy Pop Popcorn Peppermint Hot Chocolate. We also had the opportunity to join in on some auction items like paintings and weekend getaways which all also benefited the Toys for Tots event. After grabbing a bite to eat we walked out into the courtyard area.

The Yamashiro Hollywood courtyard was absolutely stunning complete with koi ponds and bonsai trees in a traditional Japanese style. While we enjoyed the delicious snacks and beverages, there was a DJ was setting the mood for the rest of the party with a delightful holiday set list. After more guests had arrived the holiday performances began. The event opened with a dance performance inspired by 2004 cult classic Mean Girls complete with santa dresses and hats. After that hosts Katie Welch and Johnny Wujek introduced tons of amazing singing acts after performing a couple numbers themselves. The singing performances wrapped up with Grammy award nominee and singing legend Adam Lambert. The charity event spread tons of holiday cheer and brought Christmas spirit to town while doing tons of good for children in need.