Rock’ in Hearts USA-Dubai 2007 Delegation Delivers on its Promise Connecting more than just Cultures

Dubai, U.A.E. –The 15-member Rock’ in Hearts USA-Dubai 2007 delegation, led by ALO Hayati, was received with glowing admiration for their effort and success in initiating a lofty trade relations agreement between the city of Dubai and the San Fernando Valley. The trade and cultural merger of these two mirroring Meccas resulted in an unparalleled and dynamic synergy. Much more than just business, this powerhouse delegation ultimately raised over $100,000 for the children of Lebanon through CHF International initiatives, delegate fees, sponsorships and celebrity endorsements.

Star-Studded Tribute
On Friday March 9th; city officials and leaders, celebrities, and worldwide entrepreneurs gathered in Dubai as America’s top Middle Eastern lifestyle magazine ALO Hayati and United Lebanon Relief’s, Goodwill Ambassador Yuri Mrakadi joined forces at the super-exclusive Madinat Jumeirah, to host Rock’in Hearts- A Celebrity Tribute.

“I feel blessed that ALO Hayati magazine and the United Lebanon Relief campaign are in a position to make a difference in our community and give back to so many children in need,” says Kanan. “We are planning events around the world to stimulate awareness of the more delicate problems children face, such as psychological counseling.”

Guests enjoyed a musical evening featuring an all-star cast; Assi Hillani, Diana Haddad and master impressionist Bassem Feghali performed live to the sold-out Joharah Ballroom crowd. Guests were also treated to the elegance of traditional Arabic cuisine and a couture designer fashion showcase by international designer Akl Fakih and esteemed fine jeweler Mozafarian.

“I was thrilled to host such a successful charity event with Wafa Kanan [ALO Magazine, publisher and United Lebanon Relief, Chairperson] in the growing metropolitan city of Dubai,” said Tony Khalife, master of ceremonies, “…it is truly refreshing and motivating to see such an outstanding and diverse group, pioneer a humanitarian and trade outreach on a global scale.”.

Artists and designers were presented with the Rock’in Hearts Award and Mrakadi received the 2007 M.E. Award (Middle Eastern Award) for selfless contribution to humanity and the arts. Elias Rahbani received ALO Hayati’s 2006 M.E. Award at the Beirut intercontinental Phoenicia in July 2006.

"We would love to enjoy the prosperity of the United States and make our own empires here, but I know that like many of you, we cannot rest easily while children of Lebanon are ravaged by poverty and hopelessness," Michael Lloyd, editor-in-chief of ALO Hayati, “…effectively we are saving lives together.”

About Rock’in Hearts:
The concept of the Rock’ in Hearts grew from ALO Hayati’s business and editorial model of making a difference while connecting cultures. This business and philanthropic global outreach made its debut in Dubai, March 2007. This year’s delegation made over $100,000 and initiated a trade relations agreement with the promising host city of Dubai. Next year’s international venture is tentatively scheduled for April 2008. All interested parties, sponsors and entrepreneur are invited to contact us for further details.

Rock’in Hearts Delegation 2007:
Michael Lloyd* Wafa Kanan* Michele Berk* Youssef Beydoun* Bill Overton* Harutune Hamassian* Dr. Mahmoud Kosi* Aziz Malley* Virgelia Villegas* Dr. Ali M. Safiedine* Yuri Mrakadi* Assi Hillani* Elias Maroun* Akl Fakih* Abed Mahfouz* Tony Khalife* Bruce Ackerman* Malek Akkad

About ALO Hayati:
ALO Hayati magazine (www.alomagazine.com) is the sole media available in the United States presenting the positive aspects of Middle Eastern culture. With just over two years since its launch ALO has garnered a loyal readership of over 325,000, ALO connects cultures through a unique blend of lifestyle and social editorials. It is the only Middle Eastern magazine that is currently at the two top bookstore chains in the USA: Borders and Barnes & Noble. ALO has also been honored P.I.A. Award of Excellence 2006 for America’s Top Middle Eastern Magazine.

About CHF International:
Founded in 1952, Cooperative Housing Foundation International (CHF) serves as a catalyst for long lasting positive change, helping families improve their economic circumstances, environment and infrastructure. With over 10 years experience assisting low-income families in Lebanon, CHF International’s local staff has been focused on assisting with emergency relief efforts-for the near million displaced Lebanese-since the conflict in July 2006.

With your help CHF International’s continuing programs will reach more than 38,000 low-income families by generating 5000 new jobs and reintegration of rural areas into the national economy.

SUPPORT CHF’S EMERGENCY EFFORTS: WWW.CHFINTERNATIONAL.ORG/ 1-866-7792-CHF