Who Says Charity Doesn't Pay?

While Live 8 Philly performers lectured about the need to throw money at Africa, they were getting swagged pretty good themselves.

The performers at the Live 8 show in Philadelphia are getting thousands of dollars in gifts. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that celebrities at the event will be given designer suits, satellite radio subscriptions, Gibson guitars, $125 ties, $330 sweat suits and watches worth between $1,500 and $6,000. Total worth: $12,000.

The products were donated by manufacturers. Giving celebrities gift bags is common for award shows like the Grammys or the Oscars. Loyola Marymount University business and ethics professor Thomas White says it's not unethical, but it is a gray zone.

The celebrities will also eat gourmet food catered by one of Philadelphia's top restaurant owners, who is donating his services. The menu includes char-grilled dry aged beef, tea-smoked spare ribs and chicken and ginger dumplings.

Irony noted, but I'm not the one who needs to appreciate it.