Enjoy Holiday Flavor All Season Long with McCormick: Tips From McCormick Help Make Each Moment Taste Special

McCormick Brings Passion to Flavor™

After waiting so long to taste the distinctive flavors that make the holiday season so special, McCormick, a global leader in flavor, is here to make sure each moment is filled with them – every day leading up to Thanksgiving and every day after. With simple tips from the McCormick Kitchens on enjoying the season’s top seven flavors – pumpkin spice, ginger, vanilla, peppermint, sage, cinnamon and nutmeg – everything from breakfast to dessert can have the best holiday taste.

“There’s really no reason to wait for a special occasion to savor the ‘Seasonal Seven’ flavors,” said Chef Kevan Vetter of the McCormick Kitchens. “For example, when I wake up in the morning, I like adding pumpkin pie spice to my coffee so I can start my day with that extra-special holiday flavor. To make Sunday dinners a little more festive, I’ll add sage to my creamy potato gratin.”

Seasonal Seven Flavors for Moments Big and Small

Think of every meal as an opportunity to include holiday tastes:

• Breakfast – Top your morning bagel with a Pumpkin Spice Spread by adding pumpkin pie spice, canned pumpkin and brown sugar to store-bought cream cheese. When you’re hosting a brunch, serve a Cheesy Bacon and Egg Casserole.

Pumpkin Spice Spread

Cheesy Bacon and Egg Casserole

• Lunch – Stir cranberry and ginger into mayo for a tasty sandwich spread any day of the week. For a special weekend lunch, use leftovers to make an Ultimate Leftover Turkey Panini or Sage and Turkey Pot Pie Soup.

Ultimate Leftover Turkey Panini

Sage and Turkey Pot Pie Soup

• Dinner – Give ordinary green beans or broccoli a festive twist by topping them with Savory Sage Butter. For Thanksgiving, try Butternut Squash Soup with ginger and nutmeg as a delicious starter. Then, serve Savory Herb Rub Roasted Turkey with Classic Herb Stuffing and Apple Sage Turkey Gravy.

National Geographic Traveler Magazine Selects Its 2013 Travelers of the Year

Partnership with United Airlines to Create Sustainable Travel Leadership Award Is Announced

National Geographic Traveler magazine announces its 18 honorees for 2013 Travelers of the Year, including winners of the newly created United Airlines Sustainable Travel Leadership Award. The award recognizes individuals who exemplify the principles of ecotourism — environmental protection, conservation and education; local community enrichment and empowerment; and eco-conscious visitor behavior. The 2013 honorees are individuals who travel with passion and purpose, have an exceptional story to tell and represent a style of travel, motivation or method that can inspire us all.

The honorees include a pair of coastal conservationists who have hatched a plan to protect Costa Rican wildlife; an engaged couple, one of whom is a quadriplegic, who have embarked on a 10,000-mile handcycle/bicycle ride from Portland, Ore., to Patagonia; and a woman on a mission to save Thailand’s elephants, one animal a time.

“We looked for extraordinary travelers doing inspiring things. People who embrace the world and all that’s in it — and who have learned some valuable lessons along the way,” said Keith Bellows, editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveler. “We received some 1,500 nominations and heard travelers’ tales that make you want to drop your iPad, grab your passport and go! This year’s winners prove that travel can make a life-changing impact to individuals and, sometimes, to the places they visit.”

The Sustainable Travel Leadership Award winners Hilda and John Denham have spent two decades protecting Costa Rica’s endangered leatherback turtles on the Pacific Ocean and green turtles on Caribbean coast. They established The Pacuare Nature Preserve, with a goal of protecting nearly four miles of turtle-nesting beach. Among other environmental efforts, the Denhams are preventing poachers from killing the turtles and robbing eggs from their nests. As part of their award, United will fly the Denhams to the sustainable destination of their choice.

“At United, we understand the importance of protecting the cultural, environmental, economic and aesthetic integrity of the destinations we serve,” said United’s Managing Director of Global Environmental Affairs and Sustainability Jimmy Samartzis. “The Sustainable Travel Leadership Award is an extension of United’s efforts to encourage and promote environmental stewardship, and we are proud to partner with National Geographic to ensure those destinations remain attractive places to live, work and visit for generations.”

The 2013 Travelers of the Year are:

• Muyambi Muyambi and Molly Burke, whose Bicycles Against Poverty organization distributes bikes to low-income entrepreneurs in rural Uganda;
• The Carroll Family (mother Kira, father Peter, and sons Xaver and Felix), who packed their lives into a truck for a yearlong drive through southern and eastern Africa;
• Katherine Connor, who founded the nonprofit Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary that is committed to the rescue, recovery and retirement of abused Asian elephants;
• John and Hilda Denham, who travel from London to Costa Rica to lobby for local support for sustainable policies and to engage local schools in educational missions;
• Tracey Friley, who launched Passport Party Project, a grassroots initiative to provide underserved girls the tools they need to obtain their first passports;
• Joan Halifax, who founded Nomads Clinic, an annual medical pilgrimage by volunteer clinicians to the Himalaya region;
• Benny Lewis, who is on a mission to prove languages can be learned quickly, and has turned his discoveries into lessons, travel tips and a $97 online language crash course;
• Shannon O’Donnell, who launched Grassroots Volunteering to provide reliable information on free and low-cost volunteering opportunities and sustainable tourism enterprises;
• John Ellis and Laura Preston, who are crowdsourcing their American road-trip itinerary, voted on by the followers of their website, Democratic Travelers;
• Seth McBride and Kelly Schwan, who are on a 10,000-mile handcycle/bicycle transcontinental tour to prove travel can be a transformative experience for everyone, regardless of physical ability. McBride plans to be the first person with quadriplegia to complete a Pan-American cycle tour;
• Alison Wright, a photographer who, after surviving a deadly bus accident in Laos thanks to caring strangers, founded the Faces of Hope Fund to give back to the communities she photographs.

Spafinder Wellness Introduces Spafinder Wellness 365(TM)

EVOLVED BRAND IS DESIGNED TO HELP PEOPLE FEEL GOOD AND LIVE WELL ALL YEAR ROUND

Spafinder Wellness, Inc.®, the largest media, marketing and gifting company for the spa and wellness industry, has introduced its evolved brand, Spafinder Wellness 365, a comprehensive resource created to help people feel good and live well all year round. Featuring over 20,000 fitness, wellness and spa partners worldwide, the innovative new platform at Spafinder.com is designed to inspire people to find their own path to wellness by providing unparalleled access to experiences, influencers, tips and trends.

Spafinder Wellness 365(TM) Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Spafinder Wellness, Inc.(R))

The tagline “Live Well All Year Round,” coupled with the addition of “365,” signals Spafinder Wellness’ evolution from a 25+-year-old spa authority and service-oriented website, known for its expertise in global spa travel and widely distributed gift cards that are available in 70,000 retail outlets, to a lifestyle brand that was created to make living well easier and more accessible each and every day. Spafinder Wellness 365 can be found at www.spafinder.com in the U.S.; at www.spafinder.co.uk in the UK; and at www.spafinder.ca in Canada.

“We believe that keeping well is not a luxury, but a necessity to live your fullest and best life possible,” said Chief Brand Officer Mia Kyricos, who led the company’s brand evolution. “In today’s world, living well can be a challenge, and our research shows that people are seeking help while pursuing their own unique paths to wellbeing. Spafinder Wellness 365 was created to be their partner-to give people the inspiration, ideas and options to do just that -and this is just the start.”

According to the “Truth About Wellness,” a global study conducted by McCann Truth Central, 57 percent of survey takers wish they had more support in leading a healthy life.(1) In a recent Spafinder Wellness 365 online survey designed to gauge consumer preference, the five wellness components that seem to matter most to its customers include: spa and beauty, fitness and movement, food and nutrition, travel and tourism and preventative and alternative health.(2)

Kyricos noted that consumers who visit the company’s websites will find an array of resources to help them get fit, get relaxed, get away, get pampered, get a gift and get a deal. Enhanced Spafinder Wellness 365 capabilities include:

—  Expanded lifestyle content: staff editors and well-known experts in the global spa and wellness field provide new editorial content to help people feel good and live well every day

—  Geo-targeting: tracks user location and directs customers to top local offerings, such as Spafinder Wellness 365 Last Minute Deals

—  Fresh video content: how-to videos hosted by expert contributors create a sense of community with recipes and tips for healthy eating, DIY spa treatments and at-home fitness videos

—  Mobile access: enhanced mobile capabilities provide easy and instant access

—  Easy-to-use site design: new design showcases all content categories, making it easy for visitors to find tips and trends, from healthy eating to ways to de-stress and simplify life

The company plans to continue the expansion of its online community and will roll out additional features and new technology over the next year.

“Spafinder Wellness 365 is about more than just spa. Thanks to our partner locations, we have built the world’s largest spa and wellness network; now it is time to become a household name and be a brand people can love and engage with every day. We know that to feel good and live well means different things to different people–our ultimate goal is to be the world’s best resource to help people feel good and live well all year round. It can be as simple as making time for a massage, taking a fitness class, visiting with a nutritionist or trying a new recipe,” said Kyricos.

In honor of the Spafinder Wellness 365 brand evolution, the company is sponsoring a sweepstakes on its websites for luxurious spa getaway and $1,000 cash in exchange for consumer insights via the survey.

(1) Based on 2013 quantitative research of 7,000 consumers in the UK, U.S., Japan, China, Turkey, South Africa and Brazil.

(2 ) Spafinder Wellness 365 Consumer Insight Survey of 3,000 respondents, October 2013.

 

“Life Is But A Dream” To Be Released On DVD on November 25 Worldwide

THE BEYONCE PRODUCED DOCUMENTARY FILM BOASTS A 2-DISC SET WITH BONUS CONCERT AND NEW MUSIC

PRE-SALE STARTS TODAY ON AMAZON.COM

Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records announce the upcoming DVD release of “Life Is But A Dream,” the documentary film executive-produced by Beyonce Knowles-Carter.

Available worldwide on Monday, November 25, the 2-Disc set with never-before-seen bonus concert footage also features a new song, “God Made You Beautiful,” from the film, included with every in-store purchase.  Pre-sale starts today on Amazon.com.

“Life Is But A Dream” is a multi-faceted, intimate portrait of Beyonce Knowles-Carter, the 17-time Grammy Award-winning global entertainer, and with footage culled from her video diaries and personal archives, it marks a pivotal year in her life and career filled with changes and personal discoveries.

At the time of the film’s debut, Knowles-Carter explained why it was important to her to make.  “I wouldn’t have released a film just for the sake of self documentation,” she said.  “I wanted it to express what I believe to be true about life – that it’s not random, that everything has a reason and that we need to be conscious of life’s little clues and how the dots all connect or we miss out.”

The 2-Disc set of “Life Is But A Dream” includes the DVD, Live In Atlantic City, featuring performances filmed over four consecutive nights at Revel Casino Hotel in May 2012, with never-before-seen performances including “Flaws And All,” “Love On Top” and “Schoolin’ Life.”

Executive-produced by Knowles-Carter and directed by the artist and Ed Burke for her own Parkwood Entertainment, the film debuted on HBO last February to 1.8 million viewers making it the most viewed documentary on HBO in almost a decade.

National Geographic Cinema Ventures to Bring ‘Giant Pandas 3D’ to Large-Format and Digital Theaters in Museums Worldwide on Valentine’s Day 2014

“Giant Pandas 3D,” a groundbreaking natural-history film capturing for the first time in 3D highly endangered giant pandas living in Wolong National Nature Reserve in the People’s Republic of China, will be released to the worldwide network of 2D and 3D large-format and digital cinemas in museums, zoos and aquariums on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 2014. The 40-minute film invites audiences to witness the birth, nursery care and teaching of panda cubs — all part of an extraordinary effort to save the panda in the wild.

An Oxford Scientific Films Production for Sky3D and National Geographic Cinema Ventures (NGCV), in association with the Chinese Wildlife Conservation Association, Wolong Panda Conservation Centre, CCTV9 and Nat Geo WILD, the film will be distributed internationally by NGCV.

The filmmakers of “Giant Pandas 3D” were given unrivalled access to the Wolong National Nature Reserve with the support of the Chinese Wildlife Conservation Association and the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda.

Directed by Nicolas Brown and produced by Caroline Hawkins, “Giant Pandas 3D” follows the pandas at a significant milestone in their history. After decades of captive breeding, the reserve has hit its target number of 300 giant pandas and now must tackle the challenge of reintroducing breeding populations of the species to the wild. Oxford Scientific Films was granted permission to film the rare release of a panda bred in captivity and to follow a group of wild pandas in their mountain habitat.

Lisa Truitt, president of NGCV, said, “‘Giant Pandas’ will show audiences the strides that have been made toward saving the panda in the wild, but much work has yet to be done. This is an important story, and we are proud to be bringing it to the giant screen. Filled with heartbreak, hope and lots of humor, ‘Giant Pandas’ will make the world fall in love anew with the iconic, beloved, charismatic panda.”

National Geographic Cinema Ventures is responsible for production and distribution of giant-screen, 3D and specialty films. Over the last decade, NGCV has produced or released a number of successful films, including Oscar-nominated documentaries “Restrepo” and “The Story of the Weeping Camel”; giant-screen award-winning films “Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure,” “U2 3D,” “Mysteries of Egypt” and “Forces of Nature”; and feature-length films “The Last Lions” and “Life in a Day.” Lisa Truitt is president of NGCV; Mark Katz is president of NGCV distribution. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com/movies.

Lands’ End Celebrates Chicago-area Store Grand Opening with a Special Charity Event

New Yorktown Center Mall Lands’ End Store to Host a Shopping Event Benefitting the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry

This November, iconic retailer Lands’ End will open their first standalone store within a shopping mall, in the western Chicago suburbs. To celebrate the grand opening of the company’s Yorktown Center Mall store, located in Lombard, Ill., and support the local community, Lands’ End is hosting a special Grand Opening Charity Shopping Event at the location on Friday, November 15, 2013 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Proceeds from sales made during the event will be donated to the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry—serving Glen Ellyn, Lombard and surrounding communities.

The Yorktown Center Mall store officially opens to the public on November 15, 2013 at 10 a.m., marking the first ever full-price Lands’ End store outside of Madison, Wis. The company opens the doors on the new location in their milestone 50^th anniversary year, bringing Lands’ End’s signature customer service and high-quality merchandise, with iconic collections and designs at affordable retail prices to the Yorktown community.

“We are excited to open the doors to our first individual location in Illinois offering classic apparel staples along with fresh trends to the local community,” said Megan Whittow Lands’ End Yorktown Center Mall Store Manager. “Additionally, Lands’ End is proud to share the celebration with the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry to help provide holiday meals to families in the surrounding area.”

For each sale made during Lands’ End’s Grand Opening Event at the Yorktown Center Mall store location only, the store will donate $50 to the Glen Ellyn Food Pantry for a Thanksgiving Food Box meal – with a goal to raise funds to feed 100 families. The Glen Ellyn Food Pantry is an ecumenical endeavor of Glen Ellyn churches who cooperate in providing food and volunteers to serve people in need who reside in Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Lombard, Carol Stream, Lisle, and Glendale Heights.

Lands’ End has also partnered with Glancer Magazine, a community living magazine for Chicago’s western suburbs, to co-host the Grand Opening Event and combine efforts to create awareness for the charity fundraising.

SpongeBob SquarePants Balloon Gets Holiday Makeover For 87th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®

Making his way from Bikini Bottom to New York City, the high-flying SpongeBob SquarePants balloon will debut a new look for the 87^th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade^® on Thursday, Nov. 28. Donning a holiday-themed ensemble for this year’s celebration, millions of fans will watch as SpongeBob takes to the sky for his ninth consecutive procession down the streets of Manhattan.

The SpongeBob balloon design was re-imagined by Nickelodeon and the Macy’s Parade organizers to give it a fresh, more vivid look. The balloon structure was also fine-tuned as organizers accomplished an engineering feat, incorporating 800 tie lines in the single chamber sphere that intricately pull together SpongeBob’s trademark square shape.

With more than 50 million viewers across the country and more than 3.5 million spectators that line up along the streets of New York City each year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a national icon that has grown into a world-famous holiday event. For more than 85 years, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has marked the official start of the holiday season. Growing in size and scale, the Parade proudly marches down a more than 2-mile route in New York City with more than 8,000 participants in tow including Macy’s employees, their families, celebrities, athletes, clowns and dance groups spreading holiday cheer. The Parade also features America’s best marching bands, fabulous floats and Macy’s signature giant helium character balloons.

“It’s not very often that the term ‘square’ and ‘balloon’ are used together, but for nearly a decade the SpongeBob SquarePants balloon has been one of the many highlights of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,” said Amy Kule, Executive Producer of the holiday spectacle. “With his animated persona and super-sized Santa hat, this second iteration of this irascible character will float down the Parade route to the continued delight of the millions of fans lining the streets of New York and the many millions more watching on television across the country. This Thanksgiving, SpongeBob once again takes his rightful position squarely in the sky.”

In 2004, the first-ever SpongeBob SquarePants Balloon made its inaugural appearance in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the delight of kids and adults alike. Based on the most-watched animated kids’ show on TV, this year’s newest SpongeBob balloon will stand at 44-feet tall, 41-feet long and 34-feet wide as it struts down New York’s most famous parade route.

Since its launch in July 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has emerged as a pop culture phenomenon. The series has been the most-watched animated program with kids 2-11 for more than 12 consecutive years, and over the past several years, it has averaged more than 100,000,000 total viewers every quarter across all Nickelodeon networks. As the most widely distributed property in Viacom history, SpongeBob is seen in over 170 countries and translated in more than 35 languages. The character-driven cartoon chronicles the nautical and sometimes nonsensical adventures of SpongeBob, an incurable optimist and earnest sea sponge, and his undersea friends.

“Nickelodeon has a long history of successful collaborations with Macy’s and we are very excited to unveil this new SpongeBob balloon at the Parade this year,” said Pam Kaufman, Chief Marketing Officer and President of Consumer Products, Nickelodeon. “Watching the Parade is a time-honored, Thanksgiving Day tradition and we hope this balloon brings a sense of SpongeBob’s eternal optimism to the millions of families watching at home and the millions more experiencing the Parade in New York City.”

Nickelodeon, now in its 34^th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 18 consecutive years.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade airs nationwide on NBC-TV on Thursday, November 28, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. until noon, in all time zones. For more information on the Macy’s Parade please visit www.macys.com/parade or call the Parade hotline at 212.494.4495.

Huishan Zhang Announced Winner of 2013 Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize

Huishan Zhang is the winner of the 2013 Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize.  The award was bestowed to the designer October 29th at The Dorchester after a catwalk show featuring the four shortlisted designers of the prize.  Huishan Zhang was presented with an endowment of £25,000 from Dorchester Collection’s chief executive officer Christopher Cowdray, along with an engraved Baccarat crystal trophy and a stay at a Dorchester Collection property, and in a new element launched this year, the prospect of one-to-one mentoring from a selection of the judges.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 29: Christopher Cowdray attends the Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize 2013 at The Dorchester on October 29, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by Ben A. Pruchnie/Getty Images for Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize 2013)

Chinese-born, London-based designer and Central Saint Martins’ graduate Huishan Zhang has created a luxurious brand where eastern heritage meets western influence. He was hand-picked by Delphine Arnault to work in the house of Dior whilst still a student. London’s Victoria & Albert Museum has selected his couture “Dragon Dress” to become a permanent piece in the T.T. TSUI gallery – making him the first Chinese contemporary fashion designer to receive this honor.

The esteemed judges of the 2013 Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize present at the final included Frederic Aranda, fashion and portrait photographer; Lorenz Baumer, jewellery designer; Derek Blasberg, best-selling author and fashion writer; Fabia Di Drusco, features editor of L’Uomo Vogue; Jean-Pierre Greff, director of Geneva’s School of Art and Design; Daniella Helayel, founder of Issa; Stephen Jones, milliner; Nicholas Oakwell, couture designer; Margherita Perico, personal stylist, fashion consultant, writer and international speaker; Rupert Sanderson, shoe designer; and Stephen Webster, jewellery designer.

Stephen Jones, Daniella Helayel, Rupert Sanderson and Jean Pierre Greff

: Emilia Wickstead, Huishan Zhang, Fyodor Podgorny, and Golan Frydman of Fyodor Golan and Barbara Casasola the Dorchester Collection Fashion Prize 2013

Hillary Alexander

Hilary Alexander and Stephen Webster

The grand final was an opportunity for the talented shortlisted designers – Barbara Casasola, Fyodor Golan, Emilia Wickstead and Huishan Zhang – to present their designs at a catwalk show to the assembled audience of judges and international VIP guests and media. After deliberation, the judges agreed that the collection displayed by Huishan Zhang best evoked the spirit of individuality, luxury, style, innovation and craftsmanship, which epitomise Dorchester Collection’s iconic hotels.

JOHN FRIEDA CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF HAIR CARE HERITAGE IN LONDON

Photo by David M. Benett/Getty Images for John Frieda

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 29: John Frieda arrives at the John Frieda party celebrating 25 years of transforming women’s hair at Claridges Hotel on October 29, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Getty Images for John Frieda)

The John Frieda Brand is celebrating 25 years in style with a star-studded party in the ballroom at Claridges Hotel in London on 29th October. When the first John Frieda Salon opened on New Cavendish Street, London, no one could have imagined the impact it would have on the world of hair care. Fast forward three decades, and John Frieda^® Hair Care products are personal favorites of celebrities, beauty experts and consumers worldwide.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 29: Harry Josh arrives at the John Frieda party celebrating 25 years of transforming women’s hair at Claridges Hotel on October 29, 2013 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Getty Images for John Frieda)

After years spent working with chemists to develop the perfect prescriptive solutions, the John Frieda^®Hair Care Experts has revolutionized hair care with the innovative Frizz-Ease^® Hair Serum, which eventually landed in Allure magazine’s “Cosmetic Hall of Fame” and was singled out by InStyle as “Product of the Decade.” And the John Frieda^® Hair Care Experts’ dedication to solving widespread hair care problems through innovative formulas and expert “how-to” instruction didn’t stop there.

Alice Rhodes

Harry Josh

Giles Gordon

George Lamb

George Lamb and Robin Scott-Lawson

Fifi Trixiebelle Geldof and Jack Guinness

Edie Campbell

caitlin Curran and Miles Aldridge

Bip Ling

Amy Molyneaux and Charlie Hayes

Tallulah Harlech

Tom Konig-Oppenheimer and Giles Gordon

Saffron Aldridge

Rick Edwards

Pixie Geldof

Miles Aldridge

Miles Aldridge

Miles Aldridge

Nicole Clarke and Harry Josh

Nicole Clarke and John Frieda

Lucy Watson

Lily Cole

John Frieda and Edie Campbell

John Frieda

John Frieda

John Frieda and Lily Cole

jessica Martin-Campbell

Harry Josh and John Frieda

Jessica Hogan

Alice Rhodes and Jessica Martin-Campbell

Giles Gordon

The John Frieda^® Hair Care Team of celebrity stylists has also fueled the company’s new product initiative with the inside track on hot, new celebrity hair trends. As part of the Kao (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kao Corporation of Japan) the global technology and research resources behind John Frieda^® Hair Care products are unrivaled.

After the Frizz-Ease^® range of products became a household name in the early 1990’s, the John Frieda^®Hair Care Experts continued to pioneer fashion-forward range after range: the color care range — Sheer Blonde^® products, Brilliant Brunette^® hair care, the Radiant Red range; the Luxurious Volume product range, for gorgeous, full-bodied hair; the Root Awakening^® range of products with natural Eucalyptus, for stronger, more radiant and beautifully healthy-looking hair; and Precision Foam Color, a true breakthrough in home hair coloring.

‘Black Girls Rock!’ Returns To BET Networks Sunday, November 3 at 7pm*

HONORING PATTI LABELLE, QUEEN LATIFAH, VENUS WILLIAMS, MISTY COPELAND, MARA BROCK AKIL, AMEENA MATTHEWS, AND MARIAN WRIGHT EDELMAN

HOSTED BY TRACEE ELLIS ROSS AND REGINA KING WITH PERFORMANCES AND APPEARANCES BY BLACK GIRLS WHO ROCK! INCLUDING MARIAH CAREY, PATTI LABELLE, NIA LONG, AMBER RILEY, TATYANA ALI, KEKE PALMER, LALA ANTHONY, JENNIFER HUDSON, JANELLE MONAE, SKYLAR DIGGINS, LEDISI, SOLEDAD O’BRIEN, MICHELLE WILLIAMS AND MORE

Patti LaBelle and Mariah Carey backstage at Black Girls Rock! Premieres Sunday, Nov. 3 at 7pm on BET. (PRNewsFoto/BET Networks)

“BLACK GIRLS ROCK!”airs on BET NetworksSunday, November 3rd at 7pm*. For the third year in a row, Tracee Ellis Ross and Regina King hosted the annual awards show. The dynamic duo wowed the audience as usual but the night belonged to the inspirational celebrants and amazing performers who were remarkable reminders of how much black girls do indeed rock!

This year the “BLACK GIRLS ROCK!”Awards took place at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in downtown Newark. where hometown girl, Queen Latifah (Rock Star Award), received much love from her hometown audience. President and founder of the Children’s Defense Fund, Marian Wright Edelman (Social Humanitarian Award) shared the stage with Head Start alum and fellow honoree Ameena Matthews (Community Activist Award). Mariah Carey presented the iconic Patti LaBelle with the Living Legend Award. LaBelle’s awesome vocal range and dynamic showmanship brought the crowd to their feet as she performed “You Are My Friend,” with the American Ballet Theatre’s sensational soloist Misty Copeland.

Queen Latifah accepts the Rock Star Award at Black Girls Rock! Premieres Sunday Nov. 3 at 7pm on BET. (PRNewsFoto/BET Networks)

The ageless beauties from the cast of “Girlfriends,” Jill Marie Jones, Golden Brooks, Persia White and Tracee Ellis Ross, reunited to pay tribute to show creator and Shot Caller Award recipient Mara Brock Akil. Tennis trailblazer and entrepreneur Venus Williams (Star Power Award celebrated by Chevy) received her award from Skylar Diggins and past honoree Keke Palmer presented ground-breaking ballet dancer Misty Copeland with this year’s Young, Gifted & Black Award. Each honoree took to the stage and delivered spirited acceptance speeches that affirmed the importance of the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! movement.

Kick Off Your “Mile High City” Holiday Season Over Thanksgiving Weekend In Denver

ENJOY GORGEOUS LIGHTS, GREAT HOTEL DEALS AS LOW AS $52.80 AND MORE

Denver officially begins celebrating Mile High Holidays over Thanksgiving Weekend as the Grand Illumination of downtown Denver sees more than 600,000 twinkling lights throughout downtown turned on for the first time. The lights will provide a sparkling backdrop to a weekend in Denver full of shopping, seasonal events and great hotel deals.

Enjoy a weekend excursion and take advantage of deals from some of Denver’s best hotels, with rates starting as low as the “mile high” price of $52.80* (Denver is exactly 5,280 feet above sea level).

Here are 10 highlights of Thanksgiving Weekend in Denver. For more Mile High Holiday Weekend events and information, go to MileHighHolidays.com.

Ooh and Ah at the Grand Illumination of Downtown 
November 29
The Grand Illumination event lights up downtown Denver with nearly 600,000 lights from Union Station to the City and County Building. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. at Union Station with carolers, food, drink, and family friendly activities.

Experience a Holiday Classic at the Denver Center for Performing Arts – “A Christmas Carol”
November 29-December 29
Denver’s holiday tradition returns! Based on Charles Dickens’ classic novel, this joyous and opulent musical adaptation traces Ebenezer Scrooge’s triumphant journey to redemption. A Christmas Carol illuminates the meaning of the holiday season and is a beloved tradition for many families.

Let Someone Else Do The Cooking On Thanksgiving

November 28
Not in the mood to baste that turkey? Take the night off and hit the town! Some of Denver’s best restaurants want to cook you a delicious Thanksgiving Dinner this year.

Take a Trip to the Art World of Paris
Through February 9, 2014
Take a trip to Paris, without leaving The Mile High City. This holiday season, the Denver Art Museum (DAM) presents Passport to Paris, a suite of three French-themed exhibitions, featuring masterpieces by Cezanne, Toulouse-Lautrec, and will feature more Monet in Denver than ever before! Skip the lines and take advantage of great hotel packages with VIP tickets at parisindenver.com.

Uncover the Truth with The MythBusters
Through January 5, 2014
Uncover the truth behind some of science’s popular myths! Just like the dynamic TV series, the fully interactive Mythbusters: The Explosive Exhibition mixes scientific method with gleeful curiosity and old-fashioned ingenuity to create a hands-on – and yes, explosive – experience for guests of all ages.

Get Your Holiday Shopping Done Early
Cross some loved ones off your holiday gift list early this year! Cherry Creek North’s 16 blocks are filled with holiday lights and decor and the region’s largest collection of independently owned boutiques. Browse 160 upscale shops at Cherry Creek Shopping Center. Other options include Denver Pavilions and Larimer Square, Belmar Shopping + Dining District, IKEA, and Park Meadows Retail Resort.

Warm to the Glow of Blossoms of Light
December 1, 2013-January 1, 2014
Embrace the holiday season at Blossoms of Light at Denver Botanic Gardens. More than one million colorful lights draped in elegant designs highlight the Gardens’ winter beauty. Romantic and popular kissing spots will return, as well as the always-anticipated HoloSpex glasses. Warm drinks and tasty treats will also be available.

Take a Spin on the Ice – for FREE – at the Southwest Rink at Skyline Park
November 30, 2013-February 17, 2014
Skyline Park is the place to be this holiday season! Southwest Airlines and the Downtown Denver Partnership invite you to grab your family and friends and head to 16th and Arapahoe in Downtown Denver to the Southwest Rink at Skyline Park! Skating is free with your own skates, or rentals are available for just $2.

Celebrate the Season With Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
November 30-December 1
Two nights only! Mannheim Steamroller Christmas has been America’s favorite holiday celebration for more than 25 years. Grammy Award winner Chip Davis has created a show that features beloved Christmas music along with dazzling multimedia effects performed in the Buell Theatre’s intimate setting.

Visit The Old World at the Denver Christkindl Market
November 22- December 21
Relive a centuries old German tradition at the annual Denver Christkindl. The sights, sounds and flavors of the holiday season with a German flair arrive on the 16th Street Mall. Music, holiday lights and typical vendor cabins will fill Skyline Park area across from the Daniels & Fisher Clock Tower.

Hotel rates are based on availability and subject to change. Not valid on New Year’s Eve. Additional restrictions may apply.

About VISIT DENVER, The Convention & Visitors Bureau
Celebrating more than 100 years of promoting The Mile High City, VISIT DENVER is a nonprofit trade association that contracts with the City of Denver to market Denver as a convention and leisure destination, increasing economic development in the city, creating jobs and generating taxes. Tourism is the second largest industry in Denver, generating $3.6 billion in annual spending in 2012, while supporting nearly 50,000 jobs. Learn more about Denver on the VISITDENVER website and at TOURISMPAYSDENVER, on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/iknowdenver and the http://www.facebook.com/visitdenver” page, or by phone at 800 2 DENVER.

Post-DOMA, Significantly More Lesbian and Gay Adults Wish to Avoid Jobs in States where Marriage Equality is Absent

Two-Thirds of All U.S. Adults Say Marriage Equality is Inevitable for America

In June, the Supreme Court of the United States declared Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) unconstitutional thereby allowing the federal government to recognize same-sex marriages performed in the current states where it is legal. This sea change in the recognition of same-sex marriages has led to significant new changes in public attitudes with strong implications for the American economy and workplaces. In a new Harris Poll released on October 30th and commissioned by Out & Equal Workplace Advocates, nearly half (49%) of gay and lesbian adults would consider changing jobs if their employer required them to transfer to a state where same sex marriages were not recognized, compared to just 30 percent last year.

The new survey also reveals that two-thirds (67%) of all Americans today, regardless of their feelings of approval or disapproval, believe that marriage equality is “inevitable everywhere in the U.S.”

“With the end of DOMA and our recovering economy, major corporations and employers that operate in states that don’t yet recognize same-sex marriage will find it tougher to recruit and keep the best LGBT talent,” said Selisse Berry, Out & Equal Founding Executive Director. “Same-sex marriage recognition by the federal government is an historic breakthrough. It’s now time to renew our efforts to pass a federal employment nondiscrimination law that is truly inclusive of sexual orientation and gender identity.”

The U.S. Congress is today considering passage of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) that would provide protections against workplace discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. If this legislation were enacted, the new poll reveals that at least one-third (34%) of LGBT adults who are not yet open about their sexual orientation or gender identity at work would become comfortable “coming out” at work. Regrettably the survey also reveals a need for greater education on the issue since nearly eight of ten (76%) adults wrongly think it is currently illegal, under federal law, for an employer to fire someone because they are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender.

 

Selisse Berry, Founder and CEO, Out & Equal Workplace Advocates. (PRNewsFoto/Out & Equal Workplace Advocates)

 

When it comes to career advancement, the new survey reveals a clear majority (60%) of gay and lesbian adults also would consider declining a job promotion if it required them to transfer to a state where same sex marriages were not recognized, compared to only a third (33%) when asked last year. Also, eight out of ten (79%) gay and lesbian adults, other factors being equal, would prefer a job with an employer in a state where same sex marriages are recognized over an employer in a state that does not recognize same sex marriages, compared to 68 percent in 2012.

Past polls show that non-LGBT allies are dedicated partners in the fight for workplace equality, and according to the new survey they are growing in number. More than a third (35%) of heterosexual adults consider themselves to be an ally of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, compared to a quarter (27%) who declared so two years ago. Also, more than one out of four (28%) heterosexual adults say they keep informed about issues of importance to the LGBT community, compared to just a fifth (19%) in 2011.

Transgender Americans remain especially at risk for workplace discrimination, yet increased visibility can lead to more respect and acceptance. Nearly 8 out of 10 (77%) heterosexual adults agree that how an employee performs at their job should be the standard for judging an employee, not whether or not they are transgender, compared to 67 percent of heterosexual adults tested in 2007.

The annual 2013 Out & Equal Workplace Survey was conducted online by Harris Interactive® in conjunction with Out & Equal Workplace Advocates and Witeck Communications, among 2,577 U.S. adults, of whom 2,150 indicated they are heterosexual and 371 self-identified as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/or transgender (which includes an over-sample of gay and lesbian adults). Begun in 2002, this survey has become a trusted annual barometer of attitudes surrounding LGBT issues in the workplace and is the longest-running national survey of its kind.

Walmart Gives Customers A Head Start With Earliest Holiday Cyber Event Ever

Retailer offers online savings typically reserved for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, including 42-inch TV for $299 and 10-inch tablet for $49; and free shipping on more items than ever

With just one month to go before Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Walmart is helping customers get ahead of their holiday shopping with an early cyber event featuring incredible online savings on select items typically reserved for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It is also offering its broadest free shipping program ever to help customers save even more this holiday season.

Online customers can access rollbacks beginning shortly after midnight Pacific Daylight Time on brand-name electronics and home goods while quantities last. In addition, more than 300 early-bird specials are available right now at exclusive prices on www.Walmart.com. Customers can be the first to learn about Walmart’s holiday deals through the season by signing up for the retailer’s emails, liking Walmart on Facebook or downloading the mobile app.

“We know that our customers start shopping for the holidays on Nov. 1 because historically our traffic spikes the day after Halloween,” said Joel Anderson, president and CEO of Walmart.com. “Customers want to relax with friends and family during the holidays, and with our early deals we are helping them make the most of their time and helping them stretch their dollars further.”

Cyber Event for Early-bird Shoppers

www.Walmart.com shoppers can check big-ticket items off their list now, such as a JVC 42-inch LED TV for $299 (36 percent savings*) and a 10-inch XELIO tablet for $49 (51 percent savings) – Walmart.com’s lowest-ever prices on a 10-inch tablet and a 42-inch TV.

Additional Walmart.com savings typically reserved for later in the season include the following items while quantities last:

—  Crayola 3-in-1 Double Easel, pink and red for $25 (originally $39.99) – 36 percent savings

—  HP Pavilion Red 14″ Sleekbook Core i3 for $299 (originally $488) – 33 percent savings, the lowest price Walmart has ever offered on a major laptop with an Intel Core i3 processor

—  Lifetime 44: Portable Basketball Goal + Ball for $89 (originally $129) – 31 percent savings

—  Nintendo Dsi XL for $89 (originally $99) – 10 percent savings

—  SodaStream Fizz Home Soda Maker Starter Kit for $59 (originally $79) – 25 percent savings

Customers who shop today can also access more than 300 early-bird specials from top brands, including:

—  Vizio 29-inch 720p 60Hz Class Edge LED HDTV (1.97-inch ultra-slim) for $198

—  Apple iPad mini (16GB, 32GB or 64GB models) starting at $299

—  Apple iPod Touch 5th Generation (Choose Your Color in 32GB or 64GB) with Bonus Accessory Kit starting at $289

—  Dyson DC33 Multi-Floor Bagless Vacuum for $299

—  Hamilton Beach Big Mouth Juice Extractor in Red for $45.98

—  Disney First Act Disney Acoustic Guitar or Keyboard Bundle for $32

More Convenient Ways to Save and Shop

Walmart also offers customers flexible shipping options, including free shipping for orders over $50 on nearly 99 percent of www.Walmart.com items, and more than half of Marketplace items. Walmart has also tripled the number to 70,000 items that customers can order online and pick up in-store the same day.

Walmart’s mobile shoppers can also expect convenient ways to shop and save, including access to their local circulars, rollback items and a store map to help them plan their next local store visit. Mobile accounted for 40 percent of Walmart.com holiday traffic last year, a number the retailer expects to increase even more this holiday season.

*Percentage savings calculated from most recent Walmart.com price and November 1, 2013 rollback price.

Stunning Marine Diatom ‘Portrait’ Takes First Place in 2013 Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition

First place winner in the competition, this image depicts a colonial plankton organism, Chaetoceros debilis (marine diatom), magnified 250x by Wim van Egmond, of the Micropolitan Museum, Berkel en Rodenrijs, Zuid Holland, Netherlands. (Wim van Egmond) #

Nikon is pleased to reveal winners of the 2013 annual Nikon Small World Photomicrography Competition, awarding first prize to longtime competitor Wim van Egmond of The Netherlands for his image Chaetoceros debilis (marine diatom). A freelance photographer and artist with a passion for aquatic microorganisms, Egmond sought to blend art and science to capture the complexity and stunning detail of this fragile helical chain.

Dr. Kieran Boyle, University of Glasgow, Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology
Glascow, Scotland, United Kingdom. Subject Matter: Hippocampal neuron receiving excitatory contacts (63x). Technique: Fluorescence, Confocal

Along with Egmond, over 100 other winners from around the world were recognized this year for excellence in photomicrography, sometimes for multiple entries.  As always, winning images were selected for displaying both artistic quality and masterful scientific technique.

“This competition brings together some of the top talent from around the world, from all walks of life and scientific disciplines, with more and more incredible entries submitted each year,” said Eric Flem, Communications Manager, Nikon Instruments. “After 39 years we are proud to watch the competition continue to grow, allowing us to honor this pool of talented researchers, artists, and photomicrographers, and showcase the importance and beauty of the work they do in the realm of scientific imaging.”

8th place winner, a 50x image of Barbilophozia sp. (a leafy liverwort, bryophyte plant) and cyanobacteria, by Magdalena Turzanska, of the Institute of Experimental Biology, University of Wroclaw, Poland. (Magdalena Turzanska)

14th place winner: An image of peripheral nerves in E11.5 mouse embryo by Mr. Zhong Hua, of the Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Maryland. (Zhong Hua)

16TH PLACE: Geir Drange, Asker, Norway. Subject Matter: Pityohyphantes phrygianus (sheet weaver spider) with a parasitic wasp larva on the abdomen (5x). Technique: Reflected Light, Focus Stacking

In 20th place, an image of the explosive dynamics of sugar transport in fat cells, by Dr. James Burchfield of the Garvan Institute, Sydney, Australia. (Dr. James Burchfield)

Taking 4th place, a 40x image of Paramecium sp. showing the nucleus, mouth and water expulsion vacuoles, by Rogelio Moreno Gill, from Panama City, Panama. (Rogelio Moreno Gill)

First place winner Wim van Egmond is one of Small World’s top photomicrographers, with now twenty still images recognized as finalists throughout the last decade. To capture the great complexity and detail of his winning diatom in three-dimensions, Egmond employed a partial image stack of more than 90 images. Foregoing traditional bright, saturated colors, he adjusted the illumination to create a subdued, blue background to contrast with the natural yellow-brown color of the diatom.

Image of Distinction: A 200x magnified view of Daphnia magna (a freshwater flea), by Jerzy Rojkowski, from Krakow, Poland. (Jerzy Rojkowski)

Image of Distinction: From Magdalena Turzanska, of the University of Wroclaw, Institute of Experimental Biology, Poland, a 50X image of Lepidozia reptans (a leafy liverwort, bryophyte plant) ventral side of pinnately branched stem. (Magdalena Turzanska)

Image of Distinction: Dew on a spiderweb, by Massimo Brizzi, from Empoli, Firenze, Italy. (Massimo Brizzi)

Image of Distinction: An image of primary rat brain astrocytes cultured in a SynVivo BBB (blood-brain barrier) device, by Ashley M. Smith, CFD Research Corporation, Huntsville, Alabama. (Ashley M. Smith)

Image of Distinction: An ascorbic acid (vitamin C) crystal, magnified 100X, by Raul M. Gonzalez from Mexico City, Mexico. (Raul M. Gonzalez)

Image of Distinction: A 200x magnified view of Daphnia magna (a freshwater flea), by Jerzy Rojkowski, from Krakow, Poland. (Jerzy Rojkowski)

Image of Distinction: A 100X view of Polypodium virginianum (fern) sorus, by Dr. Igor Siwanowicz, of Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Janelia Farm Research Campus, Virginia. (Dr. Igor Siwanowicz)

Image of Distinction: A 60X view of a clam glochidia (larva), by Mark A. Sanders, of the University Imaging Centers, University of Minnesota. (Mark A. Sanders) #

Honorable Mention: A 40x view of the crystallization of tartrazine (dye primarily used as a food coloring), by Frederic Labaune, Education Nationale, Auxonne, France. (Frederic Labaune)

A 6.6x image of a benthic fish egg cluster, by Dr. Jaime Gomez-Gutierrez, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Mexico. (Dr. Jaime Gomez-Gutierrez)

Image of Distinction: A 4x image of a worker ant, (Aphaenogaster senilis) by Dimitri Seeboruth, from Paris, France. (Dimitri Seeboruth)

Image of Distinction: A 3D reconstruction of a rabbit embryo (Oryctolagus cuniculus), close to term, obtained with a custom built Optical Projection microTomography setup by Dr. Gabriel G. Marins and Rob Bryson-Richardson, of the Centro de Biologia Ambiental/Faculdade de Ciencias Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal. (Dr. Gabriel G. Marins and Rob Bryson-Richardson)

“I approach micrographs as if they are portraits. The same way you look at a person and try to capture their personality, I observe an organism and try to capture it as honestly and realistically as possible,” said Egmond of his winning image. “At the same time, this image is about form, rhythm and composition. The positioning of the helix, the directions of the bristles, the subdued colors and contrast all bring together a balance that is both dynamic and tranquil.”

New National Geographic Book- INSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE: Stories from the World’s Most Famous Residence

National Geographic, in collaboration with the White House Historical Association, offers a new book this fall that welcomes readers on a private historical tour of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. INSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE: Stories from the World’s Most Famous Residence (National Geographic Books; Nov. 5, 2013; ISBN: 978-1-4262-1177-5; hardcover; $40), with a foreword by former first lady Laura Bush and an introduction by historian and author William Seale, offers a vivid account of the people who have lived and worked in this symbolic building and highlights many of the fascinating events that have taken place there.

The book, by Noel Grove with William B. Bushong and Joel D. Treese, opens the doors to America’s most famous home through images, anecdotes and records — some rarely seen — that describe life within its walls. Readers will get to know the presidents and their families and delve into some high moments and low moments in their lives; they will walk the halls and gardens roamed by the first families; they will appreciate the hard work and responsibilities of the house staff; and will marvel at the remarkable architecture of the building. The book also introduces Rebecca the raccoon, Rex the King Charles spaniel and other cherished pets that have lived on the property.

The world of the White House is presented by theme, including the building and its architecture; its 18 acres of gardens and grounds; the West Wing; first ladies; entertaining, celebrating and the holidays; the working White House; at home in the White House; diplomacy and ceremony; and innovations and technology. The stories and insights allow readers to share the excitement and stresses that come with the job of being president or his support staff.

INSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE provides answers to such questions as:

• Why is the White House white and the Oval Office oval?
• What does it take to stage events such a state dinner or the annual Easter Egg Roll?
• Which former employee’s memoir caused the then first lady to require employees to promise they would not publish memoirs after leaving service?

This in-depth account of the White House ends with a splendid portrait gallery of all the U.S. presidents and first ladies.

In her foreword, Laura Bush reminisces about the days when the White House was her home. “Each room and each piece of furniture tells a story,” she writes, and “the bonds of family and friendship forged in the White House truly last a lifetime.”

Through tragedies and joys, the White House has stood as an icon of the American dream and the strength of the United States. After reading this book, readers will never view 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue quite the same way again.

National Geographic Books & Home Entertainment creates and distributes books, videos and other print and digital media that inform, engage and entertain diverse audiences about our world. Annually, the group publishes more than 125 new books for adults, families and kids and releases 250+ new DVDs and digital downloads of the Society’s films and TV shows, and these National Geographic titles are available in more than 35 local-language editions. While special photographic and film collections, travel books, nature shows, birding guides and atlases are a core focus of the Society’s products, books and videos on subjects as diverse as animals, the human mind, history, world cultures and the cosmos are also produced. For more information, visit facebook.com/NatGeoBooks and nationalgeographic.com/books.

Operation Homefront and Dollar Tree Launch 2013 Holiday Toy Drive Collection

Operation Homefront, the national non-profit organization that provides emergency financial and other assistance to military families, is joining with Dollar Tree to launch its annual Holiday Toy Drive to collect gifts for military kids. Operation Homefront field offices across the nation are teaming up with local Dollar Tree stores to collect purchased toys between Nov. 1 and Dec. 6 to be distributed to the children of service members this holiday season.

Operation Homefront Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Operation Homefront)

Thanks in large measure to the tremendous support of Dollar Tree patrons, in 2012 Operation Homefront’s Holiday Toy Drive collected over 9 million toys nationwide for military kids. Log on to www.OperationHomefront.net for more details on how to help military families.

A national nonprofit, Operation Homefront leads more than 4,500 volunteers with nationwide presence who provide emergency and other financial assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors. Operation Homefront has met more than 750,000 needs of military families since its inception in 2002. Nationally, 95 percent of total donations to Operation Homefront go directly to programs that provide support to our military families. For more information, go to www.OperationHomefront.net.

This year marks the seventh annual joint campaign by Operation Homefront and Dollar Tree to support military families during the holiday season. Anyone wishing to make this year’s holidays brighter for military families can go to their local Dollar Tree store and purchase toys to be distributed to the children of our service members.

“For service members with kids, especially in the lower- and mid-grade ranks, holiday shopping is a major expense that can have a big impact on the family budget,” said Jim Knotts, President & CEO of Operation Homefront. “Helping them make their children feel extra special during this festive time is an important aspect of the assistance we provide to military families. By contributing to Operation Homefront’s Holiday Toy Drive – either with an online monetary donation or by dropping off gifts – you’re helping our men and women in uniform provide for their families in these tough economic times.”

A Fortune 500 Company, Dollar Tree is North America’s leading operator of discount variety stores selling everything for $1 or less. Headquartered in Chesapeake, Virginia, Dollar Tree operates more than 4,800 stores in the 48 contiguous United States and 5 Canadian Provinces.  To learn more about the Company, visit www.DollarTree.com.

More information on the Holiday Toy Drive is available at www.OperationHomefront.net/HolidayToys.  www.OperationHomefront.net also accepts online contributions for all of Operation Homefront’s programs to assist military families.

 

Shawn “JAY Z” Carter Turns Black Friday Gold by Launching His First Men’s Fragrance

Entrepreneur, Style Icon, Music Legend and Philanthropist Taps Into Fragrance Business

JAY Z, an international entrepreneur, music legend, style icon, sports agent and philanthropist, enters the fragrance business with the launch of his first men’s eau de toilette, “GOLD JAY Z,” which will debut on Friday, November 29th at major department stores throughout the U.S. Created by JAY Z with Firmenich perfumer extraordinaire Ilias Ermenidis, GOLD JAY Z is a fragrance that reflects an unmistakable ultra luxurious signature. The white fougere fragrance is perfected through a layered blend of yellow ginger, white cardamom and grapefruit with a hint of blueberry. At the heart, a refined infusion of violet leaf, cypress, lavender and luxurious vetiver with a thread of pink pepper gives a tailored, modern signature. A rich note crafted with golden amber, patchouli, teak and bourbon vanilla give a final shot of gilded sensuality.

Shawn “JAY Z” Carter launches his first men’s fragrance GOLD JAY Z. (PRNewsFoto/Parlux Ltd.)

Designed by JAY Z, the fragrance is in a pure white matte flask with the GOLD JAY Z logo raised and etched in gold. As expressed in the gilded cap, “Power,” “Pride,” “Confidence,” “Strength,” “Success,” and “Courage,” captures the essence of GOLD JAY Z.

“I was impressed with JAY Z’s style and confidence and was drawn to the ease with which he carries himself and all of his success,” says Ilias Ermenidis. “He has a natural cool that people want a piece of. In developing GOLD JAY Z, I wanted to capture both the vibrant ambitious part of JAY Z’s charismatic persona and his effortless style that he naturally embodies through a fusion of notes chosen by JAY Z.”

“JAY Z is one of the world’s leading artists, entrepreneurs, philanthropists and visionaries of our time,” says Donald J. Loftus, President of Parlux LTD., Inc. “He continues to re-write rules and sets new standards, turning everything he touches into gold. His first fragrance, GOLD JAY Z, captures his original style and distinct brand of success.”

GOLD JAY Z COLLECTION

Eau de Toilette Spray                     3.0 oz / 90 ml                      $70

Eau de Toilette Spray                     1.7 oz / 50 ml                      $55

Eau de Toilette Spray                     1.0 oz / 30 ml                      $39

GOLD JAY Z will be available in international markets in 2014.

JAY Z GOLD JUICE, WHITE FOUGERE

Perfumers: JAY Z & Ilias Ermenidis Perfumer, Firmenich

TOP: The brightness of Sicilian Bergamot and ginger warmed with Cardamom

MID: Masculine vetiver and teak wood mingle with the spice of pink pepper

BASE: Rich amber and sensual myrrh are smoothed with bourbon vanilla

For more information, visit www.JAYZGOLD.com which will be live on November 29th.

Get In the Holiday Spirit with the 2013 Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis

FUN AND FESTIVE 5K EVENT RAISES FUNDS TO CURE ARTHRITIS

The Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run/Walk returns this holiday season to raise funds to fight and cure arthritis, the nation’s leading cause of disability. In nearly 150 cities across the nation, thousands of people will take to the streets in honor of the millions living with this crippling and potentially life-threatening disease in the U.S. The Jingle Bell Run/Walk is a festive event where families, neighbors and co-workers come together in holiday-inspired attire for 3.1 miles of running, walking and sharing holiday spirit in an effort to raise funds for a cure. To find and register for the event in your community, visit www.arthritis.org/jbr.

Dad and child have their antlers on and are ready to go!

Striking one in every five adults and 300,000 children, arthritis is the nation’s leading cause of disability. The Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis.org) is committed to raising awareness and reducing the impact of this serious disease, which can severely damage joints and rob people of living life to its fullest. The Foundation funds life-changing research that has restored mobility in patients for more than six decades; fights for health care policies that improve the lives of the millions who live with arthritis; and partners with families to provide empowering programs and information.

Since 1984, the Jingle Bell Run/Walk has been an outlet for nearly 2 million participants across the country to help raise funds to fight and cure arthritis through research, education and community programs.

“Arthritis is a serious disease causing terrible pain and suffering,” says Ann M. Palmer, president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation. “We’re committed to fighting for a cure for Bridget and the other 50 million people with arthritis.”

Voted one of the nation’s “Most Incredible Themed Races” in 2012, the Jingle Bell Run/Walk is a fun and meaningful way to make a difference in the fight to end arthritis, a serious disease that affects 50 million Americans, both adults and children.

Jingle Bell Run-Walk participants – All I want for Christmas is a Cure!

Form a team and fundraise for a cure together!

Andy Boockmeier began participating in the Jingle Bell Run/Walk in honor of his daughter, Bridget, who was diagnosed with arthritis when she was 4 years old. Now at the age of 12, she has endured several different medications for her arthritis, including injections and chemotherapy.

International Football Star Cristiano Ronaldo Introduces Debut Fashion Brand With The Launch Of CR7 By Cristiano Ronaldo

UNDERWEAR COLLECTION AND SOCK LINE CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP DESIGNER RICHARD CHAI AND DANISH COMPANY JBS TEXTILE GROUP

Photos by David Ramos and Denis Doyle/Getty Images for CR7

MADRID, SPAIN – OCTOBER 31: Cristiano Ronaldo poses in front of a 19m high billboard during the global launch of the CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo Underwear line at the Palacio de Cibeles on October 31, 2013 in Madrid, Spain. CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo is available worldwide from 1st November 2013 from http://www.cr7underwear.com (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images for CR7)

World famous sportsman Cristiano Ronaldo has collaborated with New York based designer Richard Chai to create a debut collection of underwear and socks, made a public appearance in Madrid on October 31st to officially launch his new CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo underwear collection, which is available worldwide from 1st November 2013.

Ronaldo appeared at Madrid landmark Palacio de Cibeles to unveil a 19 meter tall CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo campaign image, featuring the global sports star modeling a key item from his range. The campaign was shot by world renowned photographer Giampaolo Sgura.

MADRID, SPAIN – OCTOBER 31: Cristiano Ronaldo poses in front of a 19m high billboard during the global launch of the CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo Underwear line at the Palacio de Cibeles on October 31, 2013 in Madrid, Spain. CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo is available worldwide from 1st November 2013 from http://www.cr7underwear.com (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images for CR7)

The spectacular courtyard in Palacio de Cibeles, which is regularly used for high end fashion events and is famous as a hub for culture, art and design, provided the perfect backdrop to the image, which was displayed beneath the building’s distinctive glass dome and against its remarkable neoclassical architecture. The range has been created in partnership with leading Danish textile group JBS, who have over 70 years experience in developing and producing high end underwear.

MADRID, SPAIN – OCTOBER 31: Cristiano Ronaldo poses in front of a 19m high billboard during the global launch of the CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo Underwear line at the Palacio de Cibeles on October 31, 2013 in Madrid, Spain. CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo is available worldwide from 1st November 2013 from http://www.cr7underwear.com (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images for CR7)

CR7 by Cristiano Ronaldo is the inaugural brand venture for the celebrated sportsman and his first personal venture into fashion design. His love of fashion and interest in design were key factors in his decision to launch his own collection, and he sought the expertise of CDFA Award winning designer Chai, who is renowned for his work with labels including Marc Jacobs and Donna Karen, to collaborate on design elements.