By Bob Meyer

I’ve had several calls regarding the upcoming Oscars, and what is contained in the gift baskets. Although the IRS is now interested in the value of the “goodies,” for tax purposes, the tradition is expected to continue.

The nominees of the six major categories at the Academy Awards all walk away winners, even though only one wins the coveted Oscar trophy. That’s because the “losers” get a basket of goodies valued at close to $100,000!

Various manufacturers gladly provide their product in exchange for the good will and publicity derived from the “exchange.” Included in the gift basket were:

• A $32,000 package from Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, including a $5,000 shopping spree.
• A certificate for a $6,000 Samsung 43” TV with a Voom HD satellite programming subscription.
• A three-night stay at the Palmilla Resort in Los Cabos at $1,400 per night.
• Two nights at the Carlyle Hotel in New York worth $2,000.
• Three days at the Opus Hotel in Vancouver valued at $8,000.
• A $9,000 vacation in a luxury residence provided by Exclusive Resorts.
• A certificate from Morton’s steakhouse for $1,500.
• A $500 pair of Swarovski Hush Puppies.
• A Z Electric Scooter for $250.
• A diamond pendant from Peace and Love Jewelry by Nancy Davis worth $500.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, February 20th, 2007 at 11:16 am and is filed under Best & Brightest Barter. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.