The American Society Of Magazine Editors Announce Finalists For 2020 National Magazine Awards

The New York Times Magazine, New York, National Geographic Top List With Most Nominations For Coveted Ellie Awards;

Annual Awards Show To Be Held At Brooklyn Steel On March 12

Former Esquire Editor-In-Chief David Granger To Receive Magazine Editors’ Hall Of Fame Award

Pamela Colloff Ties Record For Most Nominated Female Writer In Awards History

The American Society of Magazine Editors (ASME) today announced via Twittercast the finalists for the 2020 National Magazine Awards for Print and Digital Media. ASME will celebrate the 55th annual presentation of the Ellie Awards and honor the 112 finalists on Thursday, March 12th, at Brooklyn Steel, a music venue in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

The American Society of Magazine Editors (ASME) logo. Provided by ASME

This year, the Magazine Editors’ Hall of Fame Award will be presented by journalist Tom Junod to David Granger, former editor-in-chief of Esquire magazine. Junod previously wrote for Granger at GQ and Esquire, where his work included the cover story on Fred Rogers that inspired the movie “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.”

Winners receive “Ellies,” the elephant-shaped statuettes modeled on Alexander Calder’s stabile “Walking Elephant” that give the awards their name.

The evening reception will include the presentation of the 2020 ASME Award for Fiction to The Paris Review, as well as honors for the five winners of the 2020 ASME Next Awards for Journalists Under 30. More than 500 magazine editors and publishers are expected to attend the annual event.

Other highlights in 2020 include Pamela Colloff, ProPublica senior reporter and The New York Times Magazine staff writer, receiving her seventh nomination with “False Witness.” Colloff now ties the overall record for most nominated female writer in awards history with The Atlantic’s Caitlin Flanagan.

The New York Times Magazine led the nominations with 10, the most in its history, with three nominations (General Excellence, Podcasting, Public Interest) honoring The 1619 Project, which “aims to reframe the country’s history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of black Americans at the very center of our national narrative,” according to the magazine. Rounding out top finalists were New York magazine and National Geographic with nine and eight nominations respectively.

Titles with multiple nominations also included Bon Appétit and The New Yorker with six each, and SELF and Texas Monthly with four.

Sixty-two titles were nominated in 22 categories. Twenty publications were nominated for the most prestigious honor, General Excellence. Nominees include large-circulation titles such as Cosmopolitan (which also received its seventh-consecutive nomination in Personal Service), regional titles like Atlanta, special-interest magazines like National Parks, literary journals like Oxford American and digital-first publications like The Trace.

Bon Appétit was nominated for the ninth consecutive year in General Excellence, the most consecutive nominations in that category in the history of the awards. Aperture and New York magazine received their fifth-consecutive nominations in General Excellence, while The Marshall Project received its fourth-consecutive nomination in General Excellence.

Ten media organizations were first-time finalists in any category: 1843, Catapult, the Charleston Gazette-Mail, Emergence, Gimlet, National Parks, Quanta, Stranger’s Guide, Vox, and The Washington Post Magazine for its “Prison” issue featuring the work of currently and formerly incarcerated Americans.

Taffy Brodesser-Akner received her first nomination for Feature Writing with “All That Glitters,” a piece featured in The New York Times Magazine on gender discrimination and sexual harassment at Sterling Jewelers. Jia Tolentino is also a first-time finalist in Columns and Commentary for her work in The New Yorker.

New York magazine and The Cut writer Rebecca Traister received her fourth nomination in six years for her profile of Elizabeth Warren.

“This year’s finalists for the National Magazine Awards showcase an incredible range of innovative, inspiring journalism from 62 magazines and websites,” said Sid Holt, executive director of ASME. “Columbia and ASME join me in congratulating the many writers and editors nominated today—their work underscores the power of magazine journalism to entertain and challenge readers and listeners both in print and online.”

National Magazine Awards 2020 Finalists

General Excellence, News, Sports and Entertainment

• The California Sunday Magazine
• ESPN The Magazine and ESPN Cover Story
• The Marshall Project
• New York
• The New York Times Magazine

Nat Geo Channel Is Bringing Back the Best of Its 2019 Programming for You to Binge Over the Holidays.

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! Catch up on all your NGC favorites from the past year, including The Hot Zone, Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, Running Wild with Bear Grylls and more!

See why IndieWire named National Geographic one of the top five Best Television Platforms of 2019!

Don’t forget to plan movie night! Academy Award-winning documentary film Free Solo airs Dec. 26 at 9/8c.

Tune in for two full weeks of marathon programming beginning today.

That’s a wrap! National Geographic is saying goodbye to 2019 with some of your all-time favorite National Geographic Channel programs of the year. From the dangerously frigid Alaskan terrain to the 3,200-foot summit of El Capitan, explore breathtaking sights, heart-pounding adventure and groundbreaking science from wherever you’re spending the holidays. After a year of such amazing content, we won’t judge if you stay on the couch for the whole two weeks.

This year’s breadth of programming continued to break boundaries through thrilling exploration, risk-taking and transcendent storytelling. Highlights of the two-week blitz include the following:

• To kick things off, Nat Geo is exploring new life and old legends with Expedition Amelia: Bob Ballard’s Search (Dec. 23 at 8 p.m.), on the search for renowned aviator Amelia Earhart’s remains, and episodes of Lost Cities with Albert Lin (Dec. 23 at 9 and 10 p.m.), as the National Geographic Explorer uncovers the greatest mysteries of ancient cities from El Dorado, to Stonehenge, to Petra!
• You thought the cold weather was tough! Catch the animal kingdom’s most epic survival stories as Bear Grylls guides you through Hostile Planet (Dec. 24 at 11 a.m.), showcasing the world’s most extreme environments and the animals that have adapted to cruel evolutionary curveballs.
• The year 2019 was a milestone one for the multi-Emmy-winning series Life Below Zero (Dec. 25 at 9 a.m.) as it celebrated its 100th episode. Meet some of the toughest individuals in the world as they attempt to survive in the most unforgiving and remote corners of America. After watching all day, tune in to a new special episode on Dec. 25 at 9 p.m.
• Spend the holidays with some of Hollywood’s most beloved celebrities as they push physical and mental limitations on Running Wild with Bear Grylls (Dec. 26 at 9 a.m.). With guests including Brie Larson, Cara Delevingne, Armie Hammer, Channing Tatum, Bobby Bones and more, you won’t want to miss the chance to catch up on the boldest season yet.
• Grab some popcorn (and your seats!) — don’t miss the Academy Award-winning documentary film Free Solo (Dec. 26 at 9 p.m.), as climber Alex Honnold sets out to achieve his lifelong dream: climbing the world’s most famous rock, 3,200-foot El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, without a rope.
• Looking for some not family-related drama? Tune in to Nat Geo’s most-watched scripted series yet, The Hot Zone (Dec. 28 at 5 p.m.). An edge-of-your-seat thriller inspired by Richard Preston’s international bestseller, The Hot Zone recounts the appearance of Ebola on U.S. soil in 1989 and the courageous heroine who put her life at risk to stop this deadly killer. These episodes will include never-before-seen enhancements with real archival footage, scientific interviews and more, diving into the true story behind this lethal outbreak.
• Forget your classic holiday libations! Gordon Ramsay serves up a taste of adventure in Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted (Dec. 29 at 9 a.m.) as he travels across the globe to learn about local flavors. His journey takes him to Peru’s Sacred Valley, Alaska’s panhandle, New Zealand’s rugged south, Morocco’s mountains, Hawaii’s Hana Coast and Laos’ Mekong River.

In addition to the marathons highlighted above, there’s even more. Don’t miss your chance to watch wildlife prosper in America’s National Parks (Dec. 24 at 5 p.m.) or explore the depths of the oceans with all kinds of sharks (When Sharks Attack beginning Dec. 30 at 9 a.m.) (yes, that rhyme was intentional). And better yet, see what’s in store for 2020 with a sneak peek of the reimagined Brain Games hosted by Keegan-Michael Key (Dec. 29 at 10 p.m.).

For more information on the two-week best of Nat Geo Channel marathon, visit www.natgeotv.com

Daveed Diggs and JooWan Kim to Collaborate on National Geographic: Symphony for Our World

Premiering This Earth Day, April 22, National Geographic and Jason Michael Paul Entertainment, Inc. Welcome Award-Winning Actor as Part of First-in-Class Symphonic Experience

National Geographic and Jason Michael Paul Entertainment, Inc. announced that Tony- and Grammy-award winner Daveed Diggs will narrate, as a contributing artist, the upcoming National Geographic: Symphony for Our World (Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGdDkxoVCKs), which begins touring in April 2018. The actor, rapper, and producer, known for his award-winning work in the musical Hamilton, is bringing a modern take on the classics to the symphony scene with this new show. With MGP Live as the official promoter, an inaugural performance of Symphony for Our World will be held in San Francisco at the Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall on Earth Day, April 22, 2018.

“At National Geographic, we believe that our unparalleled visual storytelling can profoundly impact and inspire people to care about our planet. Our yellow border serves as a portal for people to gain new insight into the farthest reaches of the earth and beyond,” said Rosa Zeegers, Executive Vice President, Consumer Products, and Experiences at National Geographic Partners. “We’re thrilled to have Daveed Diggs join us in sharing this ground-breaking show that combines our beautiful imagery with breathtaking music. Daveed’s passion for our mission truly elevates Symphony for Our World.”

Driven by a five-part composition, Symphony for Our World pairs artistry with science as it brings viewers from the depths of the sea, up to coastlines, over mountains and soaring into the sky. Each environment will be accompanied by a different orchestral movement, resulting in a powerful musical tribute to the beauty and wonders of our wild world.

The original symphony and theme were created by Emmy- and BAFTA-nominated Bleeding Fingers Music featuring composers Austin Fray and Andrew Christie with contributions from multi-platinum selling rockers X Ambassadors. Along with Diggs, JooWan Kim of Ensemble Mik Nawooj (a San Francisco Bay Area-based musical group that merges classical, jazz, and hip-hop styles) has joined the project, composing the music for the show’s narrations and overture.

“Working with National Geographic on this new kind of immersive storytelling, and sharing so much about the world with music, is something near and dear to my heart,” said Daveed Diggs. “Ever since I was a kid I’ve always liked National Geographic, and am so excited to be a part of Symphony for Our World.”

This inspiring 90-minute live orchestral performance will be presented in concert venues around the world, with groundbreaking imagery and storytelling from 130 years of beloved National Geographic history matched in perfect synchronization with a live orchestra and choir. The tour’s first performance is in conjunction with the television broadcast premiere of ‘Symphony for Our World’, an hour-long special which airs commercial-free on the same day on Nat Geo WILD. The ‘Symphony for Our World’ television event will premiere globally in 140 countries.

New-York Historical Society To Explore “Fashion, Feathers, And The Rise Of Animal Rights” Activism In Honor Of Landmark Migratory Bird Reaty Act Centennial

“Feathers: Fashion and the Fight for Wildlife” On View April 6 – July 15, 2018

Unidentified maker. Accessory set, including muff and tippet, 1880–99, United States Herring Gulls, feathers, silk. Metropolitan Museum of Art, Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection, 2009.300.2050a-c. This unusual muff and tippet, made with four adult Herring Gulls harvested during breeding season, demonstrates how accessory manufacturers exploited these birds. Gulls are and were great scavengers, and continue to be instrumental in cleaning our shorelines. The 19th-century fashion for their feathers and bodies, however, nearly drove them into extinction.

The New-York Historical Society presents a special exhibition that melds fashion, activism, and the history of the groundbreaking Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. Feathers: Fashion and the Fight for Wildlife, on view April 6–July 15, 2018, examines the circumstances that inspired early environmental activists—many of them women and New Yorkers—to champion the protection of endangered birds. The exhibition showcases bird- and plumage-embellished clothing and accessories. It also features original watercolors by John James Audubon of birds endangered before the passage of the statute, models for The Birds of America, from the Museum’s renowned collection. The exhibition is part of the Year of the Bird, a centennial celebration of the Act organized by National Geographic, the National Audubon Society, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and BirdLife International. Recordings of bird songs from The Macaulay Library at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology—together with objects on loan from other institutions, books, ephemera, and photographs—animate the narrative.

John James Audubon (1785–1851), Tundra Swan (Cygnus columbianus), Study for Havell pl. 411, 1838. Watercolor, graphite, oil, black ink, black chalk, and white gouache? with touches of pastel and glazing on paper, laid on card. Purchased for the New-York Historical Society by public subscription from Mrs. John J. Audubon, 1863.17.411 Swans’ down, the soft, fine, under-feathers, of swans were used for trimming clothes—as in the evening dress on display—and for cosmetic powder puffs. Tundra Swans once nested over most of North America but disappeared rapidly as civilization advanced westward. By the 1930s, fewer than 100 remained south of Canada. With protection from hunting and the disturbance of plumers, northwestern populations have rebounded. Today, their population is stable enough to sustain a limited hunting season in some areas.

Administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 was one of the first federal laws to address the environment, prohibiting the hunting, killing, trading, and shipping of migratory birds. It also regulated the nation’s commercial plume trade, which had decimated many American bird species to the point of near extinction.

“Feathers: Fashion and the Fight for Wildlife commemorate the centennial of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act by delving into history and examining the economic and social circumstances that inspired the early environmentalists and activists who lobbied for this consequential legislation,” said Dr. Louise Mirrer, president, and CEO of the New-York Historical Society. “As New York was the center of the nation’s feather trade, the exhibition also investigates how the act impacted the city’s feather importers, hat manufacturers, retailers, and fashion consumers—as well as how New York women played an important role in pushing for the legislation.”

John James Audubon (1785–1851) with Maria Martin (1796–1863), Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus), Study for Havell pl. 379, 1836–37. Watercolor, graphite, black ink, and gouache with touches of pastel and selective glazing on paper laid on card. Purchased for the New-York Historical Society by public subscription from Mrs. John J. Audubon, 1863.17.379. Audubon painted three species of North American hummingbirds. He never saw the western Rufous Hummingbird alive, but painted it from specimens sent to him by the naturalist Thomas Nuttall. While naturalists always admired the hummingbirds they studied, the larger public’s appreciation of these sensationally beautiful creatures resulted from exposure in public arenas. Many pieces of hummingbird jewelry, like the Red-legged Honeycreeper earrings seen in the exhibition, were produced in England by Harry Emanuel, who in 1865 patented a process for insetting the heads in silver and gold mounts.

John James Audubon (1785–1851), Roseate Spoonbill (Platalea ajaja), Study for Havell pl. 321, ca. 1831–32; 1836. Watercolor, graphite, gouache, and black ink with touches of glazing on paper laid on Japanese paper. Purchased for the New-York Historical Society by public subscription from Mrs. John J. Audubon, 1863.17.321. Audubon admired these prehistoric-looking, wading birds, the largest North American member of the ibis family. The beauty of their feathers brought the species to the brink of extinction by 1920. Plume hunters invaded colonies to slaughter the birds for fans sold in the tourist trade. They survived after the Audubon Society dispatched wardens to protect them and urged the passage of strict conservation laws. Today, the Roseate Spoonbill is one of the great success stories of the conservation movement.

The first gallery of the exhibition, “A Fancy for Feathers,” presents examples of the late 19th- and early 20th-century fashion including feathered hats, boas, fans, aigrettes, jewelry, and clothing. Highlights include a gold and diamond aigrette hair ornament (1894) featuring the wispy feathers of a Snowy or Great Egret, which were scornfully called the “white badge of cruelty” by activists; a muff and tippet accessory set (1880–99) composed of four adult Herring Gulls created during a craze for gulls that nearly drove the sea birds to extinction; a folding brisé fan of swirling white feathers (1910–29); and a pair of earrings inset with hummingbird heads (ca. 1865). Painted miniatures on view from the late 19th and early 20th centuries portray women adorned with bird plumes, such as one professed bird lover, wearing a hat decorated with dyed ostrich feathers while holding an American robin and surrounded by caged birds. Feathers also adorned men’s regalia and hats.

Unidentified maker. Red-Legged Honeycreeper hummingbird earrings, ca. 1865 Probably London, England Preserved bird, gold, metal. Metropolitan Museum of Art, Alfred Z. Solomon and Janet A. Sloane Endowment Fund, 2013, 2013.143a, b. Animal parts and insects decorated late 19thcentury jewelry. In 1865, London jeweler Harry Emanuel patented a method to inset hummingbird heads, skins, and feathers into gold and silver mounts. As objects of beauty as well as scientific fascination, the dazzling birds’ heads and feathers were prized as earrings, necklaces, brooches, and fans.

George Bird Grinnell (1849–1938) From Nathaniel Pitt Langford, Diary of the Washburn Expedition to the Yellowstone and Firehole Rivers in the year 1870, n.p. St. Paul, MN: Yellowstone National Park, 1905 New-York Historical Society Library. Born in Brooklyn, Grinnell played a seminal role in American conservation. He lived as a youth in Audubon Park in upper Manhattan, previously the estate of the legendary naturalist-artist John James Audubon. There Grinnell was tutored by Lucy Bakewell Audubon, who encouraged his lifelong passion for wildlife and the natural world. After a later expedition to Yellowstone, his report included what may be the first official statement in opposition to the excessive killing of big game. In 1886, Grinnell founded the Audubon Society of New York, the forerunner of the National Audubon Society (1905). He launched it from its publication Audubon Magazine as “an association for the protection of wild birds and their eggs.”

National Geographic and Katie Couric Launch Screening Tour for Upcoming Documentary “Gender Revolution: A Journey With Katie Couric”

Two-Hour Documentary Hosted and Executive Produced by Couric Is Available for Free to All Schools and Nonprofits That Will Host Inclusive Screenings and Conversations

First look clip from GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC: https://files.natgeonetworks.com/_Sp2gXfxhvt1d5R

Every day all around the world, gender is making headlines, weaving its way into conversations big and small, in settings from the government to households, from schools to places of employment. The two-hour National Geographic documentary GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC (trailer here) approaches the topic of gender through the lens of science, society, and culture, all woven together by personal stories and experiences.

National Geographic logo. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)

In GENDER REVOLUTION: A JOURNEY WITH KATIE COURIC, premiering Monday, Feb. 6, at 9/8c, National Geographic set out to explore this evolving concept of gender through the lens of science, society, and culture. Produced by Katie Couric Media with National Geographic Studios and World of Wonder Productions, the special will also air on National Geographic around the globe in 171 countries and in 45 languages.

To extend the life of this important documentary beyond its Feb. 6 television broadcast, National Geographic and Picture Motion are partnering on the Gender Revolution Tour, allowing any high school, college, university or nonprofit to sign up to host a free screening and discussion. The tour will harness the momentum of the conversations happening around the globe and offer an opportunity to have an informed dialogue on one of the most complicated and evolving issues in the current zeitgeist. The Gender Revolution Tour is being managed by impact agency Picture Motion.

Requests to participate in the Gender Revolution Tour can be made by filling out the request form at http://bit.ly/NatGeoGenderRevolution. Screening hosts will be sent a DVD of the film and an extensive discussion guide (LINK), created by Journeys in Film, that provides additional resources on understanding gender.

At the time of this release, more than 100 universities, high schools, and non-profit groups have already scheduled screening events of the GENDER REVOLUTION leading up to and during the week of the film’s television premiere on National Geographic.

Katie Couric Media develops and produces content, programming, and documentaries for TV networks and digital distribution platforms, focusing on compelling issues the award-winning journalist and best-selling author has covered throughout her career. Katie Couric Media projects include the “Katie Couric” podcast from Earwolf, which features the host in candid, unscripted conversations about American life and politics; the National Geographic documentary GENDER REVOLUTION; and the upcoming movie “Flint” with Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, about the drinking water contamination in Flint, Michigan. Katie Couric is the executive producer of “Fed Up” (2014) and “Under the Gun” (2016), both documentaries that premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.

“From the very start, it was my hope that as many people as possible would be given the opportunity to see this film,” said Couric. “I am thrilled that along with National Geographic and Picture Motion we are going to be able to share GENDER REVOLUTION and our accompanying discussion guide with groups all over the country.”

“National Geographic is about exploration and discovery. Through the Gender Revolution Tour we want to encourage constructive conversations that will allow people to connect with each other over material that is science-based, investigative and in some cases deeply personal,” said Chris Albert, Executive Vice President, Global Communications for National Geographic. “We believe this is a timely and groundbreaking documentary, and are thrilled to make it available for free to any organization interested in expanding its knowledge on the gender discussion.”

“We are so thrilled, but not entirely surprised, to see GENDER REVOLUTION so embraced. From Catholic Colleges to LGBT advocacy groups, city-based Sororities to mid-west High Schools, Gender Studies programs to Trans Support Groups for Parents; there has been an outpour of support for a film like GENDER REVOLUTION,” said Christie Marchese, CEO and Founder, Picture Motion.

GENDER REVOLUTION is produced by Katie Couric Media, World of Wonder Productions and National Geographic Studios for National Geographic. For Katie Couric Media, executive producers are Katie Couric and Mitch Semel. For World of Wonder, Fenton Bailey, Randy Barbato, and Jeremy Simmons serve as executive producers. For National Geographic Studios, executive producers are Jeff Hasler and Brian Lovett. For National Geographic, Tim Pastore is president, original programming and production, and Michael J. Miller is executive producer.

New Mars Survey From National Geographic And Kelton Global Reveals Americans Would Prefer To Leave Behind Both Donald Trump And Kanye West On The Red Planet

Jennifer Lawrence and George Clooney Top List of Celebrities Americans Would Want as Passengers on the Interplanetary Journey

Three out of 10 Americans Dream of Going to Mars with 52 Percent of Millennials More Eager to Jump Planets After the Election

“Rocket Man” is Preferred Tune for the Journey; “Star Wars” on Top List of Movies to Kill Time During Six-month-plus Trip; Han Solo is Preferred Pilot; Twinkie Ranks as Choice Snack Food; And Significant Other Tops List of Most Desirable Companion

From Executive Producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, National Geographic’s MARS Season Finale Airs Monday, Dec. 19, at 9/8c

It’s out of this world, but massive strides have been taken toward making the maiden manned mission to Mars a legitimate possibility within our lifetimes. Now a new network survey, conducted by Kelton Global and National Geographic, uncovers attitudes toward Martian exploration, whether Americans would ever make a trip to Mars, who and what they’d like to bring along on their journey (and strand there) and what they’d miss most from Earth. National Geographic has brought this prospect to life with the six-part global event series MARS, from executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard; the season finale airs Monday, Dec. 19, at 9/8c.

Of all the planets in our solar system, none has captured our collective imagination like Mars. Follow the first human mission to Mars, set in 2033, as the crew struggles to safely land on and colonize the planet. Tracing the thrilling quest to make Mars home, National Geographic presents a new breed of programming, blending cinema-quality scripted drama set in the future with documentary sequences that features current space-technology pioneers. In the season finale, “Crossroads,” which airs Monday, Dec. 19, at 9/8c, a devastating tragedy on the colony forces everyone on Mars and Earth to question the mission. While Olympus Town tries to persevere, controlling groups back on Earth struggle with the decision of whether to end the mission.

The National Geographic Mars survey commissioned Kelton Global to sample 1,024 nationally representative Americans over the age of 18 with a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent. The survey was conducted between Dec. 1 and 4, 2016, and used an email invitation and online survey. (Quotas were set to ensure a reliable representation of the U.S. population. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results.)

Three in 10 — or approximately 70 million Americans (29%) — admit they’ve given travel to Mars considerable thought, and perhaps unsurprisingly, the majority of those who’d go are Millennials and male.

The recent election has spiked Mars interest with nearly half the survey respondents (44%) prepared to pack their bags:

• 52 percent of Millennials say the election results sparked their interest in the journey;

• 43 percent of Generation Xers

• 38 percent of baby boomers– all cite the recent US election as a reason to go.

Continuing on the election theme, nearly half (46%) are eager to leave behind Donald Trump on the lonely, hostile Red Planet, and more than a third (35%) agree that his opponent Hillary Clinton should join him.

Suffice it to say that barely anyone would want to colonize Mars with Kim Kardashian (10%), and even less (4%) prefer her husband, Kanye West, but Americans would be eager to ditch them in space along with the president-elect and former secretary of state.

Asked which celebrity they’d happily take on the journey, Americans are divided with more than two in 10 (22%) opting for Jennifer Lawrence and slightly fewer (18%) taking George Clooney (both of whom have been in space films). Here’s a further breakdown of all things Mars:

Making the Move

• Because passage to Mars is no ordinary vacation, nearly all Americans (95%) insist on bringing along family. If given the choice of one companion, nearly half (48%) said they’d prefer to achieve liftoff with their significant others.

• The survey reveals that nearly two-thirds (66%) of Americans would prefer to step foot on the Red Planet before Martians infiltrate our world.

• Sixty percent responded that they would rather be the first human on Mars than the last human on Earth. This finding could also explain why humans, by nature, have always been exploratory, why we discovered our “New World” in America centuries ago, why we went to the moon and why we yearn to unearth what’s life is like on Mars and beyond.

You’re Not Solo with Han Solo

• Martian travelers need a good old reliable co-pilot, and who better to guide the ship than someone from the “Star Wars” universe? Nearly half would nab Han Solo (44%), and almost a third (31%) would choose his brother-in-law Luke Skywalker.

• “Star Wars” is so relatable that approximately half of America (48%) would watch the “Star Wars” films on repeat on their trip to Mars; these movies are preferred over any other sci-fi movie, including “Star Trek” (36%) and “WALL-E” (30%).

Martian Sundries

• Traveling six to nine months to the fourth planet from the sun would be more bearable with sundries, including favorite nostalgic snacks from our early days in space travel.

• Most voyagers would opt to sink their teeth into the classic Twinkie (30%) with just as many (29%) snacking on the eponymous Mars Bar. Dippin’ Dots (24%) are appetizing, especially among Millennials who grew up with this cool alternative to ice cream.

“Rocket Man” and Other Tunes

• Space travelers require snacks, but they also want to stuff their suitcases with a favorite book (22%) and wouldn’t want to take flight without their favorite tunes (23%).

• In fact, when asked to choose one Martian theme song, most prefer a classic number: nearly half of America (44%) would “burn out his fuse up there alone” with Sir Elton John’s “Rocket Man.”

• The legendary “Starman” David Bowie split the vote but maintained second and third choices for “Space Oddity” (17%) and “Life on Mars” (16%), respectively.

• Click HERE for the Spotify list of America’s Martian theme songs.

National Geographic Announces World Legacy Awards Finalists

Innovative Travel Companies, Organizations And Destinations Put Sustainability Into Action

The 15 finalists of the 2017 National Geographic World Legacy Awards were unveiled today. The World Legacy Awards, a partnership between National Geographic and ITB Berlin, showcase the leading travel and tourism companies, organizations and destinations — ranging from entire countries to small islands and from urban hotels to jungle retreats — driving the sustainable tourism transformation of the global travel industry.

This year’s World Legacy Awards entries spanned the planet, representing 45 countries and six continents, showcasing how sustainable tourism has no boundaries. Finalists in five award categories were selected by an international team of more than 20 judges. A multi-step judging process also included on-site inspections of each finalist. For details on the judges, go to http://www.nationalgeographic.com/worldlegacyawards/judging.html

The 2017 National Geographic World Legacy Awards finalists are:

Conserving the Natural World — Recognizing outstanding support for the preservation of nature, restoring natural habitat, protecting rare and endangered species, whether on land or in the oceans.

• Mark Thornton Safaris, Tanzania — This guide-owned outfitter works to protect endangered wildlife habitat by establishing indigenous community partnerships on the Simanjiro Grazing Easement of the Maasai Steppe, a critically important wildlife migration corridor and wildebeest calving ground.
• Misool Eco Resort, Indonesia — Misool actively works to protect marine habitat, influence policy, and empower local communities. They manage more than 350 square miles of marine protected area in the heart of the Coral Triangle – the global center of marine biodiversity.
• North Island, Seychelles —Hailed as the Galapagos of the East, this eco-resort’s innovative Noah’s Ark project has successfully reintroduced some of the Seychelles’ rarest species back to nature as part of their restoration of native habitat on the former plantation island.

Earth Changers — Recognizing cutting-edge leadership in environmentally friendly business practices and green technology, from renewable energy and water conservation to zero-waste systems and carbon-emissions reduction.

• Cayuga Collection, Costa Rica and Nicaragua – Reduce, reuse, recycle is a daily mantra at this ultra-green hospitality company. Innovative practices include a program to eliminate plastic waste (even drinking straws are reusable bamboo) and guests join back-of-the-house tours to learn how sustainability touches their vacation experience.
• Finch Bay Eco Hotel, Ecuador – Finch Bay’s closed-loop sustainable technology produces organic food for their guests with a high-yield process that conserves water, eliminates pesticides, and reduces carbon food miles. Their success is now being replicated by other Galapagos hotels.
• ITC Hotels, India – Demonstrating that large luxury urban hotels can set a new standard for going green, ITC’s 11 iconic city properties, spread across India, are all LEED Platinum certified – the highest level recognized by Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design.

National Geographic Offers Gifts for the Adventurer, Traveler, Stargazer, Photographer, Book Lover, Young Scientist and More

Explore The World With National Geographic And Give A Gift Inspired By Travel, Adventure, Science, Exploration, Photography And Global Craft This Holiday.

If you have a love of people, places, culture and history or if you are looking for gifts that are out of the ordinary, National Geographic has some unique selections in its 2016 Holiday Look Book. From books to home goods, eclectic apparel and jewelry, gear, photography workshops and private expeditions National Geographic offers high-quality, authentic gifts that would delight anyone on your list.

Another plus: All purchases support National Geographic Society’s vital exploration, conservation, cultural preservation and education programs around the globe.

“Buyers from National Geographic travel the globe in search of beautiful, handmade objects that tell a story,” said Jill Dvorak, director of site merchandising & marketing, catalog and online operations for National Geographic. “We’ve assembled an extraordinary collection of gifts for the traveler, the book lover, stargazer, home decorator, adventurer, animal lover, young scientist and beyond that will inspire them to learn and explore the world around them.”

Highlights From The 2016 Gift Selection:

National Geographic Exclusive: Geno 2.0 Next Generation Genographic Project Participation and DNA Ancestry Kit. $179.95

Geno 2.0 Next Generation Genographic Project Participation and DNA Ancestry Kit

The revolutionary Geno 2.0 Next Generation test has been enhanced to offer the most up to date ancestry available and now has:

• -Improved results based on a higher-capacity DNA-testing chip
• -More accurate regional ancestry—double the number of regions and 50+ reference populations
• -Improved DNA haplogroup calls and 20 new ancestral stories.

Introducing the next generation of the Genographic Project Participation Kit. This new DNA test uses cutting-edge technology to give you the richest ancestry information available. Join the more than half a million people who have already taken part in National Geographic’s groundbreaking Genographic Project—contribute to this real-time scientific effort and learn more about yourself than you ever thought possible.

National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Dr. Spencer Wells and his team designed Geno Next Gen based on the new technologies and insights that emerged since the launch of the Genographic Project ten years ago. Using an exclusive, custom-built genotyping chip, they test nearly 750,000 DNA markers that have been specifically selected to provide unprecedented ancestry-related information.

For the Holiday Host or Hostess: Personalized Nautical Flag Coasters (Set of 4), $55.00

Personalized Nautical Flag Coasters – Set of 4

Although signal flags have been largely replaced by two-way radio and cell phones, in the 19th century they were how ships at sea communicated with each other. Each flag stands for a letter, but also represents a full message. For example, the “T” flag also meant “keep clear!” Today the flags are reserved for yacht racing and formal occasions. Choose your three-initial monogram and artisans in New England will create a coaster set on cork-backed, rustic tumbled marble that shows your initials along with the corresponding signal flags. Click here for a list of initials and their corresponding flags, or click on the Flag Meanings tab to see what phrase each flag symbolizes in the International Code of Symbols.

(Please note: Personalized items cannot be returned unless damaged or defective. Please check your order carefully; once placed, your order for this item cannot be canceled. Not available for shipment outside of the U.S. Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery to the continental U.S. and 4-6 weeks for delivery to Alaska and Hawaii.)

For the Adventurer: Carabiner Clip Watch with LED Micro-Light, $45.00

Carabiner Clip Watch with LED Micro-Light

Equipped with a powerful LED micro-light, this clever explorer’s watch has a built-in carabiner that clips right onto belt loops, packs, and more, keeping the time and a light source within reach as you travel. Luminescent hands and hour markers provide visibility in all kinds of conditions.

(Details: Uses one 376 watch battery and one LR1131 watch battery (both included). We recommend having a jeweler replace the battery. The case is intentionally challenging to open in order to better protect the mechanism and increase the watch’s water resistance. 1 1/2”W x 3”L x 1/4”D, 3 oz, Water-resistant to 100 feet.)

For the Book Lover: Wild, Beautiful Places: Picture-Perfect Journeys Around the Globe, $40.00

Wild, Beautiful Places: Picture-Perfect Journeys Around the Globe

Experience the world’s most wild, remote, beautiful places with shots by National Geographic photographers and vintage photos pulled from the National Geographic archives. Highlighting 50 of Earth’s most pristine, scenic locales, this beautiful book is illustrated with stunning images, coupled with accessible, engaging descriptions and practical travel information. The book covers everything from otherworldly, secluded valleys to far-flung, soaring mountain ranges. National Geographic photographers share some of their favorite shots from around the world and explain how they got them, and historical photos culled from National Geographic’s hallowed image archive highlight old Society explorations in rugged, distant locations, and give a glimpse into the bygone days of these exotic places.

For the Photographer: Camera Lens Travel Mug. $24.00

Camera Lens Travel Mug

Increase your focus, clarity, and zoom abilities. We’re talking about the coffee! This deceptively realistic, BPA-free travel mug looks just like a DSLR camera lens with details like a focus ring and grip—perfect for coffee lovers and camera enthusiasts alike. The stainless steel lining keeps drinks hot and is extra easy to clean. The screw-top lid with sliding sip top keeps your coffee from spilling as you venture off road to capture that perfect shot.

National Geographic Teams Up with GovMint.com to Develop Limited Edition of Collectible Coins to Benefit Africa’s Big Cats

For the first time ever, National Geographic and the South African Mint have partnered to release limited-edition sets of legal-tender coins. The National Geographic Big Cats Coin Program will benefit the Big Cats Initiative (BCI), a long-term effort supported by National Geographic that aims to halt the decline of big cats in the wild. GovMint.com, one of the world’s leading sources of collectible coins, has signed on as the exclusive distributor. The collection is available for purchase on GovMint.com or by calling 1-800-642-9160.

The collection will feature on its coin face the cheetah, a native species of South Africa. Famously the world’s fastest land animal, cheetahs can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just three seconds. Their keen eyesight and ability to make quick and sudden turns also make them a fierce predator. The cheetah’s distinct spotted coat allows them to blend easily into high, dry grasses. Sadly, their population is dwindling due to human encroachment on the wide, open grasslands in which they live. It is estimated that only 7,000 to 10,000 of these big cats remain in their native eastern and southwestern Africa.

Struck at the South African Mint in 99.9 percent pure gold, each gold proof set contains four coins in tenth-ounce, quarter-ounce, half-ounce and one-ounce weights. All obverses feature the year and South African Coat of Arms depicting an eagle with a rising sun at the top and their motto. Each of the coins features four distinct cheetah designs created by the master artists at the South African mint. Coins are displayed in a beautifully crafted wooden case along with an official mint certificate of authenticity and booklet.

Since 1984, GovMint.com has been one of the world’s leading sources of collectible coins. Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, GovMint.com is an official distributor for seven major world mints and offers collectible coins from over 120 countries. (More information at www.GovMint.com/bigcats or call 800-642-9160.)

“When we consider new editions, we try to choose subjects that we think will not only resonate with our collectors, but that also represent a direct connection to the countries issuing the coins,” said Bill Gale, founder of GovMint.com. “South Africa is proud to feature the cheetah on its gold and silver coins, and shine a spotlight on such a beloved, iconic species.”

“Big Cats in the wild are disappearing at an alarming rate,” said Andy Reif, head of licensing for National Geographic Partners. “It is the goal of National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative to halt this decline through on-the-ground conservation and education projects. We are happy to support this work through the Big Cats Coin Program, through GovMint.com.”

GovMint.com also offers a one-ounce Sterling Silver Crown 2 Rand (R2) proof. Each silver proof includes the official languages of South Africa surrounding the South African Coat of Arms. Each comes encased in original packaging from the South African Mint, accompanied by an informative booklet.

Proceeds from the National Geographic Big Cat Coin Collection supports National Geographic’s programs, including the conservation of animals and their habitats. National Geographic Society receives funds from National Geographic Partners LLC, funded in part by your purchase. To learn more, visit www.natgeo.com/info.

National Geographic Partners LLC, a joint venture between National Geographic Society and 21st Century Fox, combines National Geographic television channels with National Geographic’s media and consumer-oriented assets, including National Geographic magazines; National Geographic Studios; related digital and social media platforms; books; maps; children’s media; and ancillary activities that include travel, global experiences and events, archival sales, catalog, licensing and e-commerce businesses. A portion of the proceeds from National Geographic Partners LLC will be used to fund science, exploration, conservation and education through significant ongoing contributions to the work of the National Geographic Society. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com. To find out more about the Big Cats Initiative’s work to stop the decline of lions, leopards, tigers and other big cats, visit www.causeanuproar.org.

‘Greeks’ Exhibition to Open June 1 at National Geographic Museum in Washington, D.C.

More Than 500 Greek Artifacts Make Final Stop on 4-city Tour

Female Figurine © National Archaeological Museum, Athens. Part of the National Geographic’s The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at the National Geographic Museum in Washington D.C.

“The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great” spans 5,000 years of Greek history and culture, presenting stories of individuals from Neolithic villages through the conquests of Alexander the Great. This unprecedented exhibition features more than 550 artifacts from the national collections of 22 museums throughout Greece, making it the largest exhibition of its kind to tour North America in 25 years. The Greeks makes its final of two U.S. stops, and its only East Coast appearance, at the National Geographic Museum, where it opens to the public on June 1.

Relief of the “Youth Crowning Himself”- This relief shows a young athlete placing an olive wreath on his head. This image has become a symbol of Athenian democracy, which arose around the 5th century BC. Going forward, people would no longer be subject to the will of the gods, but instead would be masters of their own fate. © National Archaeological Museum, Athens. Part of the National Geographic’s The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at the National Geographic Museum in Washington D.C.

The Greeks was developed by the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, Education and Religious Affairs (Athens, Greece), The Field Museum (Chicago, USA), the National Geographic Museum (Washington, D.C., USA), Pointe-à-Callière, Montréal Archaeology and History Complex (Montréal, Canada), and the Canadian Museum of History (Gatineau, Canada).

Statue of a Soldier, Known as “Leonidas” This statue is thought to depict the Spartan king Leonidas, whose troops battled the Persians in 480 BC. Grossly outnumbered, the Spartans fought valiantly. Though eventually defeated, the battle gave hope to the Greeks that the massive force of Xerxes could be beaten back. © Archaeological Museum of Sparta. Part of the National Geographic’s The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at the National Geographic Museum in Washington D.C.

“The Greeks is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition of Greek history and culture to visit North America in a generation,” said Kathryn Keane, vice president of Exhibitions at the National Geographic Society. “From their Bronze Age beginnings to the height of classical civilization, the Greeks and the traditions they founded continue to have a profound impact on our lives today.”

Fragment of a Grave Stele © National Archaeological Museum, Athens. Part of the National Geographic’s The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at the National Geographic Museum in Washington D.C.

The exhibition contains more than 500 magnificent artifacts, many of which have never been displayed outside of Greece. Curator favorites include iconic stone figurines from the Cycladic Islands; gold funerary masks and other treasures from Mycenae; classical marble statues from the Acropolis Museum of Greek poets, athletes and heroes; and brightly painted ceramic vases featuring scenes from Greek mythology and daily life.

“Mask of Agamemnon” (Replica) When unearthed in the late-19th century, archaeologists believed this to be the death mask of Agamemnon, the mythical king of Mycenae. © National Archaeological Museum, Athens. Part of the National Geographic’s The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at the National Geographic Museum in Washington D.C.

Museum visitors will experience the exhibition through the eyes of the ancient Greeks. Some are well-known even today — Oysseus, Homer, Agamemnon, Leonidas, Socrates, Pericles, Philip II and Alexander — with their achievements recorded in epic poems, historical writings and mythological stories. But many of the people featured in the exhibition remain unnamed and known to us only through the archaeological record: a priestess of Mycenae, a warrior of the Iron Age, two noble women of the Archaic period and an athlete of the classical era. The objects buried with these individuals provide insights into their lives and the roles they played within their respective families and societies.

Votive Relief Offered to Asklepios In the center of this relief, Asklepios, god of medicine, leans on his staff, around which a snake is coiled. This symbol still represents medicine today. © National Archaeological Museum, Athens. Part of the National Geographic’s The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at the National Geographic Museum in Washington D.C.

Woven throughout the exhibition are the inventions, innovations and institutions that provide the foundation for much of Western culture. Scholars today trace the origins of modern democracy; the Olympic movement; and Western philosophy, poetry and theater back to Greece. Even many of the monuments of Washington, D.C., owe their architectural style to the mathematicians, builders and sculptors of ancient Greece.

Alexander the Great Bust Sculpted shortly after Alexander’s death, this marble bust depicts him in the flower of youth. © Archaeological Museum of Pella. Part of the National Geographic’s The Greeks—Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at the National Geographic Museum in Washington D.C.

In addition to this exhibition, National Geographic is producing a three-hour series “The Greeks,” which will air nationally on PBS in late June. A rich complement of publications and public programming related to the exhibition will also be announced in early May. Special events will include an engaging Nat Geo Live event featuring Caroline Alexander, author of the recently published and critically acclaimed English translation of “The Iliad.”

More information about The Greeks at the National Geographic Museum can be found here: http://events.nationalgeographic.com/exhibits/2016/06/01/the-greeks-dc/.

The National Geographic Museum (1145 17^th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.) is open every day (except Dec. 25) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults; $12 for National Geographic members, military, students, seniors and groups of 25 or more; $10 for children ages 5-12; and free for local school, student and youth groups (18 and under; advance reservation required). Tickets may be purchased online at www.natgeomuseum.org; via telephone at (202) 857-7700; or in person at the National Geographic Museum, 1145 17^th Street, N.W., between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. For more information on group sales, call (202) 857-7281.

The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit membership organization driven by a passionate belief in the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to change the world. We fund hundreds of research and conservation projects around the globe each year. With the support of our members and donors, we work to inspire, illuminate and teach through scientific expeditions, award-winning journalism, education initiatives and more. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.org.

National Geographic Launches Yearlong Exploration of the Power of Parks in Celebration of 100th Anniversary of the National Park Service

Yearlong Exploration Includes Robust Online Portal, natgeo.com/parks, 12-Month Series in National Geographic Magazine, National Geographic Channel Specials, New Books, Maps and More

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the National Park Service in 2016, National Geographic has launched a yearlong exploration of the power of parks, across all its platforms, to help people better understand the wonders and challenges of parks around the world. A Web portal, “Explore the Power of Parks,” dedicated to exploring how to preserve our wild places, will feature new content throughout the year and include the latest magazine stories and photos, travel guides with maps and tips from the experts, videos, photo galleries, educational resources and the ability to book authentic and meaningful travel experiences online. www.Natgeo.com/parks will aggregate content from a major series in National Geographic magazine that kicks off with the January 2016 issue and includes many digital-only features, videos, news stories and more.

For almost a century, the National Geographic Society has been raising the public’s awareness of the historical and cultural significance — and majestic beauty — of America’s national parks. The Society has consistently featured the national park system and specific national parks across all of its publications, television channels and expansive website. These features provide information and inspiration to individuals worldwide and educate Americans about the importance of protecting our nation’s heritage as represented by the national park system. National Geographic magazine, the Society’s flagship publication, devoted its entire July 1979 issue to U.S. national parks, and in October 2006, the magazine published a cover story on national parks throughout the world, including a special piece on the health of U.S. parks.

The magazine series begins with an introduction by writer David Quammen on why a national park is more than just a scenic place — it is a nation’s common ground — and features powerful day-to-night imagery by photographer Stephen Wilkes. The issue also includes a feature article by Florence Williams that looks at how spending time in the natural world benefits the human brain. Other parks and topics in the series include Alaska’s Denali National Park, Seychelles, urban parks, a special single-topic issue on Yellowstone National Park in May 2016, Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Grand Canyon, Cuba’s coral reefs and a look at the next generation of park keepers.

“One hundred years ago, the National Geographic Society helped persuade the U.S. government to create the National Park Service. Today, parks are more critical than ever to ensure the health and sustainability of our planet. They connect us with the natural world and inspire us all to be better stewards of our only home. Because we believe in the power of science, exploration and storytelling to change the world, we’re harnessing our global content platforms to focus on the importance of these irreplaceable places,” says Chris Johns, chief content officer, National Geographic Society. “We want people to explore and experience the wonder of these protected places with us and through us, and support our efforts to understand and preserve them.”

National Geographic will round out the magazine and Web coverage throughout the year with other consumer touchpoints, including:

• National Geographic Books and Kids Books: Several new books published, including an updated edition of the best-selling “National Geographic Guide to National Parks of the United States, 8th Edition” (on sale Jan. 19, 2016) and “Yellowstone: A Journey Through America’s Park” by David Quammen (on sale August 2016). Kids books include the “National Geographic Kids National Parks Guide USA,” “Buddy Bison’s Yellowstone Adventure” and the “Junior Ranger Activity Book,” which is filled with puzzles, games and fun facts about national parks.
• National Geographic Kids magazine and website: The May 2016 issue will be devoted to national parks and an online content hub, natgeokids.com/parks, will feature My Shot kid photos, park profiles and a quiz.
• National Geographic Travel: Each issue of National Geographic Traveler magazine will feature a national park and special digital content, including videos, showcasing many of the parks online.
• National Geographic Channel and National Geographic WILD: The National Geographic channels kicked off a yearlong celebration of the founding of our national parks with Wild Yellowstone, which premiered in December 2015 on Nat Geo WILD and won best cinematography and best editing at the Jackson Hole Film Festival. The channels will air multiple park specials throughout the year, starting with National Geographic Channel’s America’s National Parks: Everglades on Sun., Jan. 24, at 8/7c and America’s National Parks: Gates of the Arctic on Sun., Jan. 31, at 8/7c. Both specials will encore on Nat Geo WILD Sun., Feb. 28, beginning at 8/7c.
• National Geographic Maps: Up-to-the-minute “National Parks Trails Illustrated” maps and new map guides.
• Experiences: BioBlitz two-day biodiversity-themed outdoor classroom/festival events in parks in all 50 states. Six regional events will take place in national parks the weekend of May 20-21, 2016, with the largest taking place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. NG Live! parks-themed public programs in Washington, D.C., and major markets.
• Expeditions: National park trips include a new Ultimate National Parks expedition to five legendary parks, expert-led trips to Yellowstone and Grand Teton as well as active Nat Geo Adventures, family expeditions and a student expedition.
• K-12 Education: The National Geographic Bee, taking place May 22-25, 2016, in Washington, D.C., will feature geography questions about U.S. national parks. The “Find Your Park, Love Your Park” educational initiative (NatGeoEd.org/LoveYourPark), developed with support from Subaru of America, teaches fourth graders across the United States about the importance of U.S. national parks and empowers students to preserve and protect them.
• Lifelong Education: “Wonders of Our National Parks” DVD/streaming lecture course on the geology of North America, created in partnership with The Great Courses.
• The Greatest American Road Trip: Follow former National Geographic staffer Jonathan Irish as he traverses the country visiting all 59 U.S. national parks in 52 weeks, starting on January 1, 2016. Find maps, photos, updates from the road and more at thegreatestroadtrip.com and http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/national-parks/.

National Geographic Travel Announces 2016 World Legacy Awards Finalists

Finalists Comprises of Travel Companies, Organizations And Destinations Driving Positive Transformation Of The Global Tourism Industry

The 15 finalists of the 2016 National Geographic World Legacy Awards were unveiled this past week. The World Legacy Awards, a partnership between the National Geographic Society and ITB Berlin, showcase the leading travel and tourism companies, organizations and destinations — ranging from large resorts to small eco-lodges and from wildlife conservancies to geoparks — driving the sustainable tourism transformation of the travel industry based on National Geographic’s work of inspiring people to care about the planet.

Costas Christ, chairman of National Geographic World Legacy Awards, said, “Sustainable tourism is the foundation for the future of the travel industry, and those destinations and companies that understand this today will be the global leaders of tomorrow. Tourism is based on selling culture and nature — the very things sustainable tourism practices work to protect. Have you ever heard someone come back from a vacation and say, ‘I just had a great holiday hiking in a dead rain forest and then staying on a beach filled with trash?’ The World Legacy Awards finalists are all about protecting the places travelers love to visit and benefiting the local people who live there. Together, these 15 finalists are working towards a future when all tourism will be sustainable.”

More than 150 World Legacy Awards entries were received, representing 51 countries and six continents. Finalists in five award categories were selected by an international team of judges. The judging process also included on-site inspections of all finalists. For details on the judges, go to http://www.nationalgeographic.com/worldlegacyawards/judging.html.

The National Geographic World Legacy Awards finalists are:

CONSERVING THE NATURAL WORLD — Recognizing outstanding support for the preservation of nature, restoring natural habitat and protecting rare and endangered species, whether on land or in the oceans.

Arkaba by Wild Bush Luxury, Australia — Located on the outskirts of Flinders Ranges National Park, Wild Bush has systematically restored a 60,000-acre former sheep ranch into a thriving wildlife conservancy. Sharing its scientific monitoring of the area’s biodiversity with its guests, conservation groups and community members, Wild Bush is demonstrating that eco-tourism can be a vehicle for nature conservation and rural economic growth.

A Unique Elephant Experience at Elephant Hill, Thailand

Elephant Hills, Thailand — With two tented camps bordering remote Khao Sok National Park, Elephant Hills focuses on the protection of the endangered wild Asian elephant. Through guest and community education, including caring for rescued elephants, Elephant Hills is demonstrating that local livelihoods can be improved through conservation-based tourism, while supporting an alternative to captive elephant riding as a tourism attraction.

Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda, Mexico — This nonprofit grassroots community organization has been instrumental in the creation and maintenance of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, an area of rich biodiversity in central Mexico. Working with local communities, Sierra Gorda has provided new opportunities for employment, encouraging and supporting the development of small eco-tourism businesses, while monitoring and tracking benefits to biodiversity conservation and economic development.

EARTH CHANGERS — Recognizing cutting-edge leadership in environmentally friendly business practices and green technology, from renewable energy and water conservation to zero-waste systems and carbon emissions reduction.

Mission Hills, China

Mission Hills, China —Demonstrating that environmental responsibility can be adopted across the Chinese tourism industry, Mission Hills published a sustainability manual and was one of the first resorts in mainland China to engage in green operations. They launched an educational campaign against the sale of ivory and shark fin. Incorporating solar-powered golf carts and solar “pest control,” Mission Hills Haikou earned the UK based Golf Environment Organization’s certification in 2014.

Laguna Lodge, Guatemala — A luxury eco-lodge focused on green operations and environmental responsibility, Laguna Lodge uses solar power and carefully tracks and monitors energy, water, waste and purchasing. It grows most of its own food, sources locally, and offers a vegetarian and vegan menu to all guests. It also offers cooking classes and highlights the environmentally responsible benefits of food choices.

Inspira Santa Marta Hotel, Portugal — Located in Lisbon, this hotel works to minimize negative impacts on the environment, implement environmentally friendly operations and serve as a role model for Portugal’s tourism industry. In addition to careful tracking of energy and water, the hotel’s “Green Squad” provides leadership in implementing innovative sustainable tourism ideas both in the hotel and the community.

SENSE OF PLACE — Recognizing excellence in enhancing cultural authenticity, including implementing vernacular architecture and design, support for the protection of historic monuments, archaeological sites, indigenous heritage and artistic traditions.

CGH Earth, India — CGH Earth operates 16 properties in southern India emphasizing local cultural heritage, including lodge design, community relations and helping guests experience authentic local culture. All of its properties emulate the traditional design of the region’s villages and are built using local, recycled and reclaimed materials, while the introduction of organic farming and local markets contributes to the conservation of local biodiversity.

Tierra Patagonia, Chile — Built to blend harmoniously with the dramatic landscape of Torres Del Paine National Park, the goal of the lodge construction was to create a place that not only used local materials but also took care to ensure the least amount of disruption possible to the surrounding environment, taking wind patterns, animal trails and native vegetation into account in the lodge design.

TIME Unlimited Tours, New Zealand — TIME (To Integrate Maori Experiences) Unlimited Tours is an Auckland-based eco-tourism company offering environmentally friendly tours across New Zealand. A Maori-owned company, TIME Unlimited introduces guests to both the natural and cultural heritage of New Zealand, providing a “living cultural” experience that immerses guests in the local Maori way of life, benefiting local communities while promoting sustainable tourism.

National Geographic Launches Free ‘Find Your Park, Love Your Park’ Activities, Interactive Map and Curriculum to Celebrate U.S. National Park Service Centennial

With Support from Subaru of America, Activity Modules for Educators Will Encourage Students to Explore, Protect and Love National Parks

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the National Park Service in 2016, the National Geographic Society, with support from Subaru of America, Inc., has launched the “Find Your Park, Love Your Park” Educational Initiative (www.NatGeoEd.org/LoveYourPark), developed to teach fourth graders across the United States about the importance of U.S. national parks and to empower students to preserve and protect them.

For almost a century, the National Geographic Society has been raising the public’s awareness of the historical and cultural significance — and majestic beauty — of America’s national parks; and has consistently featured the National Park Service and specific national parks across all of its publications, television channels and expansive digital presence. National Geographic magazine’s April 1916 “Land of the Best” issue published more than 100 photographs of America’s scenic wonders and was used during congressional hearings to help influence Congress to create the National Park Service and the park system.

The “Find Your Park, Love Your Park” Educational Initiative complements the National Park Service and National Park Foundation’s Find Your Park/Encuentra Tu Parque movement to celebrate and share inspirational stories from national parks nationwide. It also bolsters the White House “Every Kid in a Park” initiative, launched in February this year, which provides free entry into national parks for fourth-grade students. The Subaru and National Geographic effort is focused on engaging teachers of fourth graders through activities designed by National Geographic’s education specialists to help students appreciate the importance of protected spaces and consider their impact on them.

National Geographic has developed five free downloadable activity modules for educators, including an interactive map of all U.S. national parks, which invite kids to visit, explore and protect national parks. The activity modules provide educators with fun and engaging activities, including documenting animal tracks at local parks, geocaching scavenger hunts, using digital maps to explore different parks and discussing concrete ways students can help solve challenges facing national parks. Educators, students and their families are encouraged to participate and take a pledge on the new interactive “Pledge to Love America’s Parks” map to visit, protect and love specific parks.

“Subaru and Subaru owners are incredibly passionate about the environment,” said Alan Bethke, vice president of marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. “That’s why we created the ‘Subaru Loves the Earth’ initiative, focused on preserving, protecting and celebrating our national parks. Our support of National Geographic aims to educate and empower the next generation of park-goers to protect our national parks for another 100 years.”

While the activities were developed with fourth-grade educators in mind, they can also serve as a jumping-off point for younger or older students and for families to do together at home. For example, one of the activities is a mini field trip to observe the natural and man-made things they will see in a nearby place and begin mapping them. Parents and caregivers of young children can use these same basic concepts on nature walks — looking for animals and insects and tracking footprints — while older children can take some of the more complex elements of mapping and developing a plan to protect the area deeper.

The interactive map is mobile-responsive and allows users to easily search for national, state and local parks based on their ZIP codes; “claim” a park as their own; and pledge to visit, protect and love the park. The digital experience is filled with pictures and information about parks and allows students, families and classrooms to explore national parks across the country from wherever they are.

National Geographic Launches 2015 Photography Contest

National Geographic invites photographers from around the world to enter the 2015 National Geographic Photography Contest. The grand-prize-winning image will be published in National Geographic magazine, and the winning photographer will receive $10,000 (USD) and a trip to National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C., to participate in the annual National Geographic Photography Seminar in January 2016.

National Geographic logo. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)

Eligible contestants can visit natgeo.com/photocontest to submit photographs in one or all of three categories: People, Places and Nature. Entries will be submitted through National Geographic’s photography community, Your Shot, where members may comment on and “favorite” photos. The entry fee is $15 (USD) per photo, and there is no limit to the number of submissions per entrant. Entries must be in digital format and must be submitted electronically. The contest ends Monday, Nov. 16, at 12 p.m. EST (U.S.).

“National Geographic uses photography to inspire, illuminate and teach our readers about our world and beyond,” said Sarah Leen, National Geographic Magazine’s Director Of Photography. “The National Geographic Photo Contest is an exciting opportunity for our photo community to participate in documenting the Earth, its creatures and its people. We look forward to seeing photographs that are passionate, skillful, surprising and beautiful. I’m very excited about seeing the entries we receive this year.”

Judging consists of three rounds of evaluation based on creativity, photographic quality and genuineness/authenticity of the content. One first-place winner will be chosen from each category, and the winning photographs will be published on www.nationalgeographic.com. The overall grand-prize winner, announced in December 2015, will be chosen from the three category winners, and the grand-prize-winning photo will be published in National Geographic magazine.

National Geographic Books Unveils Special Access to Pope in New Book, ‘Pope Francis and the New Vatican’

Since his ascent to the papacy in 2013, Pope Francis has electrified the world and infused the Vatican with unprecedented energy. National Geographic photographer Dave Yoder was given over six months of special access to the pope to document his daily life inside the Vatican. POPE FRANCIS AND THE NEW VATICAN (National Geographic Books, $40) beautifully captures the spirit of the new Vatican and the transformation sweeping through the Catholic Church.

Timely and poignant, POPE FRANCIS AND THE NEW VATICAN reveals this spiritual revolutionary through a new lens. Yoder and Draper take readers on a stunning journey through the complexities of the new Vatican under Pope Francis, his early life and journey to the papacy, and the Church’s relationship with our rapidly changing world.

Through breathtaking photography and exclusive reporting, POPE FRANCIS AND THE NEW VATICAN showcases the pope’s public life and personal convictions as never before. Yoder’s photos and the stories behind them, written by acclaimed author and journalist Robert Draper, highlight the deep love and mercy that lies at the heart of Francis’ ministry. Draper spent a month in Rome interviewing Vatican officials and three weeks in Argentina interviewing dozens of Pope Francis’ lifelong friends, many of whom had never spoken with the media before. Draper’s essays reveal the themes that have been woven through the pope’s entire life.

The Vatican finds the pope to be a paradox. Known as the “available pope,” a contradiction in terms, he is hailed by the press as a reformer, a radical and a revolutionary. Those close to him in Rome say he is all of these things, and yet none of them. The answer to the question reverberating around the world remains a mystery: Will Pope Francis change the Vatican, or will the Vatican change him?

“He won’t change doctrine. What he will do is return the Church to its true doctrine — the one it has forgotten, the one that puts man back in the center,” says the pope’s longtime friend, Franciscan priest Ramiro de la Serna.

Publishing just ahead of Pope Francis’ first trip to the United States in September 2015, the book is being released in conjunction with the August issue of National Geographic magazine, which features Yoder and Draper’s work on the pope and the Vatican as the cover story. The magazine is presently available on digital newsstands and print newsstands.

For National Geographic’s youngest fans, National Geographic Kids is simultaneously releasing a Level 1 reader, POPE FRANCIS (978-1-4263-2253-2; $3.99), available in English and Spanish.

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 dealing with subjects as diverse as animals, the human mind, history, world cultures and the cosmos are also produced. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com/books.

National Geographic Live Announces Fall 2015 Season Lineup. Season Includes First Ever National Geographic Photo Fest

Hear explorers’ thrilling reports from the field, be inspired by National Geographic photographers, go on assignment with a Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist and experience the excitement of Telluride Mountainfilm, all without leaving Washington.

National Geographic Live announced its 2015 fall season lineup of events at National Geographic’s downtown Washington, D.C., headquarters. The fall schedule features 11 fascinating events that reflect National Geographic’s belief in the power of science, exploration and storytelling to change the world, including presentations by Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario and renowned climber Jimmy Chin. Tickets go on sale Aug. 10 and may be purchased online at natgeolive.org/dc, via telephone at (202) 857-7700 or in person at the National Geographic Museum ticket desk between 10 am. and 6 pm. All events take place in National Geographic’s Grosvenor Auditorium. Free parking is available in the National Geographic underground garage for programs that begin after 6 pm.

National Geographic Live is the live events division of the National Geographic Society, a global nonprofit membership organization driven by a passionate belief in the power of science, exploration and storytelling to change the world. Drawing from a broad roster of talent including renowned photographers, scientists, authors, filmmakers and adventurers, National Geographic Live’s critically acclaimed programs have connected with audiences worldwide for over a century.

“We look forward to providing Washingtonians with another season of illuminating programming that offers inspiration and entertainment to audiences of all ages. They will have the opportunity to see, hear and, in some cases, even taste the experiences our incredible explorers and storytellers have to share,” said Andy van Duym, National Geographic’s vice president for National Geographic Live.

The fall season kicks off on Sept. 16 with “Pope Francis and the New Vatican,” a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the August 2015 National Geographic magazine cover story and corresponding book, with National Geographic magazine Editor in Chief Susan Goldberg, writer Robert Draper, photographer Dave Yoder and special guest Archbishop of Washington Cardinal Donald Wuerl. The season closes on Jan. 16 with the first ever National Geographic Photo Fest, where the audience will have the opportunity to meet and be inspired by renowned National Geographic photographers on the heels of the annual invitation-only National Geographic Photography Seminar.

The Nat Geo Live fall schedule also includes two student matinees featuring modified versions of the evening presentations geared toward students. Nat Geo Live’s student matinees are supported by education sponsor Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions. On Nov. 4, photographer and National Geographic Fellow Joel Sartore will present to students about Photo Ark, his ongoing quest to document biodiversity by photographing the world’s most endangered species before they disappear. A Photo Ark exhibition will be on display in the National Geographic Museum beginning Nov. 5. The fall student matinee schedule wraps up on Dec. 8 with photojournalist Ami Vitale and “Rhinos, Rickshaws & Revolutions.” Nat Geo Live’s student matinees are open to school groups for $10 per student, which includes admission to the National Geographic Museum. For tickets or more information on the student matinees, call (202) 857-7281.

SEPTEMBER 2015

POPE FRANCIS AND THE NEW VATICAN

SEPT. 16, 7:30 PM

A week before the first papal visit to the United States since 2008, join National Geographic magazine Editor in Chief Susan Goldberg for a behind-the-scenes look at the August 2015 cover story of National Geographic magazine, “Will the Pope Change the Vatican?” National Geographic was given special access to the pope and permission to document his daily life inside the Vatican for the story. Goldberg will moderate a conversation about this remarkable man with writer Robert Draper, photographer Dave Yoder and special guest Archbishop of Washington Cardinal Donald Wuerl. A sale and signing of Draper and Yoder’s recently published book, POPE FRANCIS AND THE NEW VATICAN, will follow. The event is sponsored by The PNC Foundation.

OCTOBER 2015

WHEN TOUGH MEETS TECH: EXPLORATION’S NEW FRONTIER

OCT. 15, 7:30 PM

National Geographic explorer Mike Libecki is on a quest to conquer the world’s last unclimbed peaks. Follow Libecki as he tackles mud and mayhem on the massive Poumaka Tower in French Polynesia, encounters fear and friendship on the Bamiyan slopes of Afghanistan and dodges polar bears while exploring Greenland’s icy waters, all backed by the technology that helps his teams summit and bring the stories back to us. The event is sponsored by Dell.

THE DEFENDERS: INSIDE THE WILDLIFE TRADE

OCT. 22, 7:30 PM

Get an insider’s look at National Geographic’s new Special Investigations Unit (SIU), which was established to expose elephant poaching and combat the illegal wildlife trafficking that’s driving many animals to extinction. The unit’s director, investigative reporter and National Geographic Fellow Bryan Christy, will take the stage to share how the SIU is going undercover to report surprising stories that are making a difference around the globe.

NOVEMBER 2015

BUILDING THE PHOTO ARK

NOV. 4, 7:30 PM

Photographer and National Geographic Fellow Joel Sartore is on a mission to capture portraits of the world’s most endangered species before they disappear. With ingenuity, wit and a serious Midwestern work ethic, Sartore has created the Photo Ark project, the largest archive of its kind, with 5,000 images and counting. Hear about his comical mishaps, endearing encounters and personal stories to document a world worth saving. A Photo Ark exhibition will be on display in the National Geographic Museum beginning Nov. 5.

IT’S WHAT I DO: A PHOTOGRAPHER’S LIFE OF LOVE AND WAR

NOV. 11, 7:30 PM

Go on assignment with Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario to the world’s most dangerous conflict zones. Addario has survived death threats and two kidnappings to bring back powerful images from hotspots such as Libya, Iraq and Afghanistan for National Geographic magazine and The New York Times. She’ll share the heart-pounding reality of working in war zones and explain what keeps her going back to places to which most of us would never venture.

TELLURIDE MOUNTAINFILM

NOV. 12-14, 7 PM

Over three unique evenings, enjoy a rich selection of films moderated by Telluride Mountainfilm’s director David Holbrooke and the unveiling of National Geographic’s 2016 Adventurer of the Year nominees. Since 1979, this festival held high in the Rockies has been one of the major events in the adventure film circuit, immersing audiences in issues that matter, cultures worth exploring, environments worth preserving, adventures worth pursuing and conversations worth sustaining.

PRISTINE SEAS

Founders of Life is Good® Brand Reveal Power of Optimism in ‘LIFE IS GOOD: The Book’

For over two decades, the much-loved Life is Good^® brand has brought smiles, hope and help to millions. Over the course of their business career, founders and brothers Bert and John Jacobs have learned that optimism more than just a marketing tactic — it’s the force that drove them to overcome tremendous obstacles and build a $100 million clothing company with just $78 and a used minivan. LIFE IS GOOD: The Book: How to Live with Purpose and Enjoy the Ride (National Geographic Books; ISBN 978-1-4262-1563-6; Sept. 1, 2015; $25 hardcover) is the story of the Jacobs brothers’ journey and the secrets to their success.

In 1989, the Jacobs Brothers designed their first T-shirts and began selling their designs in the streets of Boston and out of an old van at colleges and street fairs. Today, Life is Good^® is a $100 million positive lifestyle brand focused on spreading the power of optimism. Ten percent of Life is Good’s annual net profits go to helping kids overcome poverty, violence and illness. The Life is Good Kids Foundation partners with leading childcare organizations to positively impact the quality of care delivered to the most vulnerable children. Bert and John both reside in Boston.

Beginning with their tough upbringing in working-class Boston, LIFE IS GOOD: The Book charts the trajectory of their lives and the company they built. A key influence was their mother, Joan, who could always be counted on to put a humorous and positive spin on everything. “I like running out of money,” she would say. “Then I don’t have to worry about what I need to buy.” This undaunted optimism became the driving force of the Life is Good brand.

As they note in their introduction to the book, studies have demonstrated a strong link between optimism and increased mental and physical health, greater resilience in the face of stress and adversity, and a higher overall quality of life. “Optimism is a powerful and pragmatic strategy for accomplishing goals and living a fulfilling life. By acknowledging obstacles and opportunities — but focusing on the opportunities — optimism enables us to explore the world with open arms and an eye toward solutions, progress and growth. It also makes life a hell of a lot more fun,” they write.

LIFE IS GOOD: The Book offers lighthearted, practical self-help that will inspire and empower readers to embrace life with delight and daring. Bert and John use their experiences to illuminate the 10 Life is Good superpowers that drive optimism:

• Openness is transformative, allowing us to discover new ways of being and acting by withholding judgments and preconceptions.
• Courage is our inner resolve to try new things.
• Simplicity sheds unnecessary complications and distractions.
• Humor is a universal connector.
• Gratitude is the practice of taking stock of the many things that are good, right and working in our lives.
• Compassion is an act of connecting and sharing in the hard stuff, helping ease the pain, heal the hurt and right the wrongs.
• Fun is the irresistible spark that connects and inspires us to feel truly united and alive.
• Creativity enables us to reach beyond conventional thinking to make things better.
• Authenticity is knowing who you are and acting like it.
• Love is the most powerful force in the world.

National Geographic and TOMS Partner to Promote Awareness of Big Cats

National Geographic, one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations, and TOMS, the One for One® shoes and accessories company, have partnered to support National Geographic’s big cats conservation efforts. Big cats (lions, tigers, cheetahs, leopards, jaguars, and other big cats) in the wild are disappearing at an alarming rate and may disappear altogether within our lifetime. Africa’s Lion Population Has declined 90% in the last 75 years,  Cheetahs have disappeared from more than 75% of their range, and there are more Tigers in captivity than there are in the Wild.

Snow Leopard. Photograph by Michael Nichols

Photograph by John Eastcott and Yva Momatiuk

Photograph by Chris Johns

Photograph by Beverly Joubert

Photograph by Beverly Joubert

Clouded Cheetah. Photograph by Peter Weimann/Animals Animals—Earth Scenes

Asian Lion. Photograph by Mattias Klum

Big cats worldwide are all under threat—for many populations, local extinctions are imminent. As few as 3,000 tigers, 7,500 snow leopards, 10,000 cheetahs and 30,000 lions likely remain in the wild. More humans populate the planet than ever before, encroaching further and further into previously natural areas. When human and big cat populations collide, the big cats typically lose. Dwindling big cat populations in the face of rapid human expansion have led us to a critical time in the history of these species. Before we can reach a natural balance and look to restoring lost wild lands for big cats, we must first stop the rapid decline of these ecologically important top predators from their natural habitats. The Big Cats Initiative seeks and funds programs to save these majestic animals in their natural habitats.

In response, National Geographic, with filmmakers, conservationists, and Explorers-in-Residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert, launched the Big Cats Initiative, in 2009, a comprehensive program that supports on-the-ground conservation and education projects combined with an accompanying Cause an Uproar global public-awareness campaign designed to reverse this decline through on-the-ground conservation and education projects.

The threats of wire-snare poaching, trophy hunting, and illegal bush-meat trade are destroying populations of lions and other big cats. The Big Cats Initiative grantees combat these threats on the ground in Africa, Asia, and other areas with large populations of big cats under the threat of extinction. Their activities include: team patrols to prevent lion snaring, testing lion carcasses for signs of poison, anti-poaching team patrols and medical treatment for snared lions.

Vatari, anti-poaching patrol member, showing animal snare, Parc National des Volcans, Rwanda. Photography by Gerry Ellis/Linden Pictures

Wire poaching snares set for the commercial bush-meat trade can frequently injure or kill lions that accidentally set the snares off. The Lion Anti-Snaring Team targets areas of high risk or use by lions and studies snaring patterns. The team tranquilizes snared lions and gives them medical treatment before releasing them. The team’s actions have rescued a large part of the local lion population from serious injury or death.

A major cause of big cat decline is retaliatory killing, which occurs when farmers and herders take revenge on big cats for attacking their livestock. In recent years, the big cats’ natural prey species have vanished. Without enough native prey to survive, the big cats turn to livestock—especially unprotected livestock—for food. Big Cats Initiative grantees are working to promote coexistence between local pastoralists and big cats by reducing the amount of human-wildlife conflict with these activities: training local villagers to be conflict officers, building and improving protective livestock corrals, using tourism as an incentive to raise income and offset livestock losses, placing tracking collars on big cats that work as a warning system for villagers, using guard dogs to protect livestock herds and relocating problem animals from conflict areas

The Warrior Watch is the first program in northern Kenya to actively involve warriors in wildlife conservation. The overall goal of Warrior Watch is to promote human–predator coexistence, reduce human–wildlife conflict, build capacity, and increase awareness of the importance of wildlife to the local area by engaging Samburu men in the process. photograph by Jonathan Torgovnik

Relatively few people in farming or herding communities around the world value the presence of carnivore species, but the successful conservation of big cats depends on the cooperation of these communities. Big Cats Initiative grantees help communities gain an increased understanding and appreciation of carnivore species. They also promote the use of sustainable management practices, including nonlethal carnivore control, to facilitate coexistence. Their activities on the ground include: conservation workshops, big cat movie nights and education and medical care for children and adults

National Geographic collaborates with multiple local and international NGOs, corporations, local community groups, and individuals on this effort. Partners include the African People and Wildlife Fund, the Anne Kent Taylor Fund, Cheetah Conservation Fund, Duke University, Ewaso Lions Project, the Global Tiger Initiative, Great Plains Conservation, Oxford University’s WildCRU, Panthera Ruaha Carnivore Project, and Zambia Carnivores Program, among others.

The new special-edition line with TOMS has been created to promote awareness of this critical issue. Together, they will develop the TOMS and National Geographic Big Cats Collection, a special-edition line of footwear, sunglasses and a backpack inspired by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative. Each design in the TOMS and National Geographic Big Cats Collection will feature National Geographic branding and imagery from the Society’s image archive. (National Geographic’s net proceeds support its nonprofit work in conservation, exploration, education and cultural preservation.) The collection will be available this fall at TOMS retail locations,

select retailers and on Toms.com.

“Our Big Cats Initiative is one of the cornerstones of National Geographic’s work in animal conservation and wildlife protection,” said Krista Newberry, senior vice president of Licensing, North America, for National Geographic. “We are pleased to partner with TOMS to raise awareness of big cats and to further our commitment to protecting these majestic creatures for generations to come.”

The story of TOMS remains one of the most inspirational told. In 2006, American traveler Blake Mycoskie befriended children in a village in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One®.

Realizing that One for One could serve other global needs, Blake launched TOMS Eyewear in 2011 to help restore sight to persons in need with every purchase of sunglasses and optical frames. In 2014, TOMS Roasting Co. launched with the mission to provide clean water to developing communities with the purchase of premium coffee.

The most recent TOMS give is tied into the TOMS Bag Collection, which launched in early 2015 and helps to provide safe births to mothers and babies in need through skilled birth attendant training and birth kits.

“I am excited to announce our partnership with National Geographic as part of the TOMS Animal Initiative. It’s been a dream of mine to work with big cats and this incredible organization. I look forward to sharing the new collection and continuing our journey together to drive awareness,” said Heather Mycoskie, TOMS chief animal lover.

To find out more about the Big Cats Initiative’s work to stop the decline of lions, leopards, tigers and other big cats, visit causeanuproar.org/TOMS.

National Geographic Traveler Magazine Launches 2014 Photography Contest

National Geographic invites photographers from around the world to enter the 2014 National Geographic Traveler Photo Contest. The grand-prize winner will receive an eight-day National Geographic Expedition to Alaska for two aboard theNational Geographic Sea Lion or National Geographic Sea Bird. The contest, which is open now, ends Monday, June 30, at 12 p.m. EDT.

Eligible contestants can visit nationalgeographic.com/travelerphotocontest to submit photographs in any or all of four categories: Travel Portraits, Outdoor Scenes, Sense of Place and Spontaneous Moments. The entry fee is $15 (USD) per photo, and there is no limit to the number of submissions per entrant. For official contest rules, visithttp://on.natgeo.com/1i80wEV.

Judging consists of two rounds of evaluation based on creativity and photographic quality. The second-prize winner will receive a five-day National Geographic Photography Workshop for one in Santa Fe, N.M., and the third-prize winner will receive a six-day cruise for two on a Maine windjammer schooner. Seven merit-prize winners will receive a print of their photo, matted and framed by the National Geographic Imaging Lab, a $200 gift certificate to B&H Photo and “The Art of Travel Photography” course on DVD from National Geographic and The Great Courses.

Throughout the contest, National Geographic Traveler magazine photo editors will showcase their favorite entries every week at nationalgeographic.com/travelerphotocontest. Visitors to the site can view all entries and share them with family and friends through Twitter and Facebook, can download wallpapers and can complete jigsaw puzzles featuring contest entries.

The grand prize, Alaska’s Inside Passage Expedition, is a unique trip to explore the remote wilderness and remarkable wildlife of southeastern Alaska with a team of expert naturalists. The trip is provided by National Geographic Expeditions, the travel program of the National Geographic Society, which offers guided trips spanning all seven continents and more than 60 destinations.

“I just took in an exhibition of work by iconic photographer Robert Capra, a groundbreaking photographer who set the tone for many National Geographic shooters whose images have become symbols of our time. The delight I get from our photo contest is seeing legions of so-called amateurs creating enduring images that continue to demonstrate the pictorial excellence that is the lifeblood of National Geographic,” said Keith Bellows, National Geographic Traveler magazine editor-in-chief and National Geographic Travel senior vice president.

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.

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.

National Geographic Launches First Explorer-Curated Collection, ‘Shop the Road Less Traveled’ Online Boutique

Travels of Explorer Elizabeth Kapu’uwailani Lindsey Inspire Line of Hand-Crafted Goods

The National Geographic launches Shop the Road Less Traveled  (www.shoproadlesstraveled.com), an online shopping destination featuring a collection of handcrafted jewelry, accessories, textiles and home decor inspired by the travels of anthropologist, filmmaker and National Geographic explorer Elizabeth Kapu’uwailani Lindsey. The limited-edition collection reflects the rich cultures, traditions, colors and landscapes that Lindsey encountered on her recent visits to India, Thailand and Bali, and represents National Geographic’s first ever explorer-curated collection.

Products featured in a new online boutique from National Geographic, ‘Shop the Road Less Traveled.’ http://www.shoproadlesstraveled.com. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)

Each piece from the Shop the Road Less Traveled line offers consumers an opportunity to experience another part of the world and appreciate the work of its talented craftspeople. For the Shop the Road Less Traveled collection, National Geographic carefully selected pillows, ottomans, blankets, decor, jewelry and scarves that are made using ancient techniques. Brothers Suresh and Devander Garg’s intricate Hand-carved Elephant Festival Sculpture is created from a single block of kadam, an evergreen wood common in their home city of Jaipur, India. Jeweler Panapha’s Azure Leather Wrap Bracelet combines 24-karat gold beads and azure-dyed leather using a meticulous technique to yield a bracelet reflecting the vibrant atmosphere of her home in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

The line also includes elegant home goods like the textured Indian Jazz Pillow and bright Paisley Morning Pillow, both in rich turquoise hues. From Jaipur, known for its centuries-old tradition of jewelry making, come gold and red-orange onyx Jaipur Sunshine Earrings, which mimic the natural and architectural landscape of the city; and the Jaipur Amazonite Necklace that harkens back to the jewels of the Mughal Empire. The Boho-hobo Suede Bag, created in Noida, Uttar

National Geographic logo. (PRNewsFoto/National Geographic Society)

Pradesh, combines fine craftsmanship with contemporary touches.

Available only through the online boutique, the Shop the Road Less Traveled line offers colorful goods crafted by artisans using traditional techniques and featuring modern touches. Items purchased from the boutique help support these local artisans as well as National Geographic’s work of exploration, research, conservation and cultural preservation. The collection centers on three themes: Jewel Tones, which features handcrafted items in shades from teal to indigo; Neutral Luxe, which showcases texture, with a selection of handcrafted items in wood, leather, wool and stone; and Royal Accents, which emphasizes scarves, pillows and bedding in vibrant color.

Elizabeth Kapu’uwailani Lindsey was the National Geographic Society’s first female Fellow. A Polynesian explorer and a descendant of Hawaiian chiefs, English seafarers and Chinese merchants, she has dedicated her life to conserving the vanishing cultures of indigenous people, their knowledge and traditions. She is an award-winning filmmaker and anthropologist and is based in Hawaii and San Francisco.

“We journey to discover rich landscapes, beautiful works of art, enchanting cultures and centuries-old crafts that uphold these cultures. Recently I had such an experience as I traveled for three months in Southeast Asia. This collection is inspired by the spirit and beauty of these lands and their cultures,” said Lindsey, whose travels and work focus on the conservation of vanishing indigenous knowledge and tradition.

Visit www.shoproadlesstraveled.com for more information and to view the entire line.

Founded in 1888, the National Geographic Society is one of the world’s largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Its mission is to inspire people to care about the planet. The member-supported Society offers a community for members to get closer to explorers, connect with other members and help make a difference. The Society reaches more than 450 million people worldwide each month through National Geographic and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 10,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects, and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.

National GeographicTravel unveils New Super-Digital Magazine, 50 Places of a Lifetime: Canada

National Geographic Travel Selects Canada for World’s First-Ever Digital Super Magazine

Huge content experience is unmatched in its coverage of one country

With the launch of 50 Places of a Lifetime: Canada, National Geographic Travel brings together the best Canadian travel writers with iconic National Geographic photographers. The result is a breathtaking, destination-based, digital super mag unparalleled in its comprehensive coverage of any single country.

Auyuittuq and Sirmilik National Parks – A pristine iceberg stands out starkly against Nunavut’s blue skies. (Photo Credit: John E. Marriott, Corbis) (CNW Group/National Geographic Society)

The world’s first digital super mag showcases all-new content from every Canadian province and territory and launches this week on www.Nationalgeographic.com/canada50. Additional content rolls out the entire month of October.

“This is a celebration of all that is Canada,” said Keith Bellows, a native Canadian and editor-in-chief of National Geographic Traveler magazine. “For anyone planning a trip to Canada, this massive digital content is a must read.”

Aside from spectacular photography and intriguing stories, the super mag’s content includes practical travel information on where to stay, when to go, how to get around, what to eat or drink, what to buy, and what to read or watch before you go. There are also helpful links as well as a fun fact about each destination.

“Canada is a place for exploring, and we are thrilled to share some of the most immersive travel experiences that our country offers,” said Greg Klassen, senior vice president, marketing strategy and communications, Canadian Tourism Commission. “We are pleased to align ourselves with the great National Geographic brand and its extensive travel experience and reach. This innovative initiative will inspire the world to visit Canada.”

The super mag content falls into four categories: Country Unbound : civilization and nature in harmony; Urban Places : exploring great cityscapes; Wild Spaces : wonders of the outdoors; and Paradise Found : retreats to restore the soul. The scope of the coverage is impressive and features a mix of well-known and soon-to-be-discovered experiences and destinations from coast to coast to coast.

The super mag includes four galleries of about 25 original photos each in the following categories, with links back to destination articles: Canada’s Cities, Coastal & Countryside Canada, Landscapes of Canada and Animals of Canada.

Fun and informative features will be rolled out throughout October as part of the digital experience. One will be “Favorite Place” submissions by readers. Site visitors will be encouraged to nominate their favorite Canadian location on a form titled “Name Your Own Canada Place of a Lifetime.” Nominations will be accepted from Oct. 1 to Oct. 31, 2013, with the top entries highlighted online in November.