Golden Globes Canceled, But Swag Goes On

Despite the Golden Globe Awards being reduced from a swanky dinner party to a no-frills news conference because of the writers' strike, gift suites remain in full swag. At least five freebie-filled events beckoned nominees Friday. And since the show is off, vendors hoped their wares -- which included jewelry, evening gowns and climate-controlled pet carriers -- might take center stage. A few wondered if gifting was appropriate this year, but most decided stars need their swag. "Even though there's a writers' strike, it doesn't mean that we shouldn't be honoring actors for their accomplishments throughout the year," said Gavin Keilly, who organized a gift suite in Beverly Hills. He's donating a portion of its proceeds to the Writers Guild Foundation, he said. Still, a few of his usual vendors canceled. "They didn't feel comfortable because of the strike," he said. "They didn't think people would come." Under threat of union picketing and a boycott by nominated actors, Sunday's Golden ... (link)