Relief for Japan

The tragedy in Japan occurring right now is horrible, and it isn't getting any better. A combination of natural and nuclear disasters has left the country in pieces--literally. As our thoughts and prayers go out to the citizens, those studying abroad, those traveling abroad, those working abroad, and their families, I would like to highlight some fundraising events that are taking place.

1) Tonight at Dodgers Stadium and Laugh Factory

B. Castillo, K. Landreaux, R. Law, A. Ferrara, J. Campanis, D. Thomas (all former Dodgers) and KNBC (Channel 4) will be at the Stadium today from 5 AM - 7 PM. The Dodgers are hosting a "drive thru" fundraiser. Cash and check donations are accepted. Those donating more than $20 will receive a ticket to an exhibition game to be played at the stadium later this month.

Laugh Factory is hosting "Stand Up For Japan" tonight at 8 PM. All ticket sales will be donated to the Red Cross Los Angeles Region. Kevin Nealon, Tommy Davidson, Tony Rock, Jeremy Hotz, Jackson Perdue, Paul Ogata, KT Tatara and Paul Rodriguez are amongst those scheduled to perform.
Source: http://www.ourweekly.com/los-angeles/fundraisers-japans-earthquake-set-dodger-stadium-laugh-factory


2) "#Pray for Japan" Art Fundraiser Exhibition

The exhibition is scheduled to run from March 19 - April 4. The opening reception is on March 19 from 7 - 10 PM on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles. Visit this Facebook event page for details, how to volunteer, list of artists, and sponsors: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=132139093526361

3) San Diego Padres on May 20

If the Dodgers aren't your cup of tea, perhaps the Padres aren't so bad. As part of their Japanese Heritage Night, the Padres are raising funds on May 20th during a game against the Seattle Mariners. The club has announced that it will match donations that come in through the Padres Foundation. Not all the details for this event are available yet, so keep posted.
Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/mlb/article_external/padres_pledge_fundraising_support_for_japan/4369180

4) Restaurants
Takami Sushi to donate 100% of proceeds until an undetermined date.
Oiwake Restaurant collecting $5 donations for RC at the door for their clubbing event on Friday, March 18 from 9 PM - 2 AM (21+).
Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/03/15/los-angeles-japan-tsunami_n_835787.html#s253676&title=Ongoing_Takami_Sushi

I hope you will take this chance to give your night life a little bit more meaning. For you, it's just a $5 cover or the price of a ticket. What's even better is that you're getting get food, tickets, a show, or entertainment for that donation. For those in Japan right now, it's essential.