Designer Donna Livingston Honored by Cancer Fundraiser

Donna Livingston

Several thousand poured onto the Paramount Studio back lot last Saturday for the Concern Foundation’s annual Block Party.  This year’s Block Party honored one of LA’s top interior designers Donna Livingston.  Donna Livingston Design was establish in 1980 and her spectacular projects are found around the world.  She is on the list of “Top 100 Interior Designers” named by Architectural Digest and is a supporter of the American Cancer Society.  Cancer Research is a cause dear to her heart. 

Also honored were Mary Moebius, M.D. a Child and Adult Psychiatrist in private practice in Tarzana since 1997 and Susan Inwood, CIMA a Senior Investment Management Consultant with Smith Barney.

The Concern Foundation has raised over $41 million dollars to fund cancer research since 1968.  Only 5% of funding goes toward administrative cost which means 95% of funds go directly toward cancer research.

We all have been, or will be, effected by cancer.  My sister-in-law has survived breast cancer, but unfortunately I lost my brother this past year to bladder cancer.  If you have not known someone with this horrible disease, chances are you will.   Even if you missed the 2009 Block Party, you can still contribute to this worthy organization.  Thank you 2009 honorees for raising awareness and funding to help win the battle against cancer.

To make your contribution, click here.

Organized Travel for Summer

Elfreth's Alley

It’s summer and vacation time.  On a recent business trip to Philadelphia, I enjoyed a day to myself sight seeing the historic area of the city.  The week before I was working in the picturesque beach community of Newport  Beach in California featuring scenic views reminiscent of the Italian coast.  Now I was back in time at Elfreth’s Alley.  This neighborhood has the distinction of being the oldest residential community in our nation.  The homes have been occupied since the early 18th century.

As someone who appreciates colonial architecture, loves history, and is a professional organizer I can’t help but apprecite how our ancestors lived 250 years ago.  Then beauty was appreciated along with simplicity.  Walk-in closets, let alone most any closets, were not even in these homes.  It’s a good thing Costco was not around in 1776.

A few organizing tips for your next business/pleasure trip:

1. Plan your time off.
2. Research the city’s website before the trip.
3. Keep travels to a limited area.
4. Walk and take in the city.
5. During lunch ask the wait staff what is not to be missed in the area.

Don’t forget to use a Travel Checklist to keep from forgetting power chargers, reservation information, and other essential needs.  For a complimentary checklist from Get It Together LA! click here and write Travel Checklist in the subject line.

Now enjoy your next trip.