by: Bernadette Giacomazzo

Academy Award®-nominated actress, Sigourney Weaver, and Lifetime Networks, one of the top-rated basic cable television networks, are set to be honored at Cracked Xmas, the 11th annual fundraising event benefiting The Trevor Project. The Trevor Project operates the only nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth.

Weaver, who has never hesitated to take roles that positively defy stereotypes and help bridge the gap between the straight and LGBTQ communities, received The Trevor Life Award. The Trevor Life Award annually honors an individual who, through his or her example, support, volunteerism and/or occupation, is an inspiration to LGBTQ youth. Actress Anne Hathaway of "Brokeback Mountain" and "The Devil Wears Prada" presented Weaver with the award. Past recipients include Ellen DeGeneres (2007), Debra Messing and Megan Mullally (2004) and Rosie O'Donnell (2003). Weaver's roles in the films "Jeffrey" and "Infamous" demonstrate her support of diverse, inclusive films that convey messages of equality to broad audiences. Moreover, Weaver's performance as Mary Griffith in the upcoming Lifetime original movie, "Prayers for Bobby," drives home a message about the harmful and potentially life-shattering effects of intolerance and homophobia.

"I feel grateful and humbled to be honored with the Trevor Life Award, and to be recognized as an ally to the LGBTQ community," said Weaver. "I hope that films such as 'Prayers for Bobby' will send messages of compassion and acceptance to all people, and compel them to create safer, all-encompassing environments for our young people."

Lifetime Networks, a leader in women's television that consistently produces and distributes relatable and diverse programming for its audiences, will receive The Trevor Hope Award. The Trevor Hope Award annually honors a company or organization that, through its policies, initiatives and other efforts, demonstrates a commitment to LGBTQ causes and is a prominent, public example of corporate acceptance of individuals regardless of sexual orientation.

"We are delighted to honor Sigourney Weaver and Lifetime Networks, since they both demonstrate the courage and conviction to break the barriers of stereotype and intolerance," said Charles Robbins, executive director and chief executive officer, The Trevor Project. "Sigourney Weaver and Lifetime provide inspiration to young people and families who will see films such as 'Prayers for Bobby' and understand the importance of celebrating diversity and life."

Cracked Xmas annually brings together top entertainers to help raise the financial resources necessary to fund The Trevor Project's programs and services. Selma Blair, Leslie Jordan, Wanda Sykes and the cast of the Tony Award®-winning rock musical, "Spring Awakening," are among guests scheduled to appear. The event's presenting sponsor is WaMu.

In 2006, Bernadette's photography caught the eye of SPLASH NEWS AND PICTURE AGENCY, after her work was selected for an OFFICAL NEW YORK FASHION WEEK photography exhibit (sponsored by BLACK BOOK). Thanks to Splash News, Bernadette's work has appeared in a variety of internationally recognized and respected publications, including THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, VANIDADES, THE INDEPENDENT (Ireland), THE DAILY MAIL, the UK's most popular, widely read newspaper.

In 2007, she garnered further industry respect and attention when she,with VATIC MEDIA president MELISSA DESKOVIC, wrote SWIMMING WITH SHARKS: A REAL-WORLD HOW-TO GUIDE TO SUCCESS (AND FAILURE) IN THE BUSINESS OF MUSIC. The book was featured on MSN.com, gained endorsements from HOT PICKS, KARMA MICS, and HALO GUITARS and was even signed to a record deal (with legendary punk label CONQUER THE WORLD RECORDS). It became a best-seller on ITUNES, and was sold out within a matter of minutes in FYE stores throughout the country.

In 2008, Bernadette joined Pop Culture Madness.
She lives in New York City and is the CEO of AKASHA MULTIMEDIA.