Great Scott! Back to the Future Celebrates 35 Years

Back to the Future Celebrates 35 Years (PRNewsfoto/Universal Brand Development)

Universal is going back in time to celebrate 35 years of the beloved film franchise – Back to the Future – starting today, on the iconic fan-created anniversary date captured in the film when Marty McFly travels back to the future: October 21, 2015. 

Over the next year, fans around the world will be treated to new, inspired-by merchandise across a variety of categories, theatrical re-releases, anniversary celebrations, digital content and more.

New YouTube Originals learning series - "Could You Survive the Movies?" - launches today, featuring "Back to the Future" in episode one.

Today, YouTube Originals and Ample Entertainment launched the new learning series, "Could You Survive the Movies" – an exciting series dedicated to exploring the magic and science of cinema's most iconic pop culture films, including "Back to the Future." In each episode, YouTube creator and host Jake Roper takes you on an immersive journey into the world of a different movie; blending unscripted scientific exploration with narrative storytelling. 

In the premiere episode, Jake steps into the original 1985 film to find out if you could survive the massive pressure wave generated by a giant guitar amp, time travel paradoxes, and the electricity from a lightning bolt travelling through your body…all while desperately trying to get back to the future! 

Could you Survive the Movies? - Episode One

• "Could you Survive the Movies?" is available to stream on YouTube.com/Learning and the Vsauce3 YouTube channel. 

New toy partner Playmobil has created a collection featuring fan favorite characters and vehicles including Marty McFly, Dr. Emmett Brown, the DeLorean Time Machine and more – coming in May 2020. Popular Funko POP! figures, a new themed board game from Ravensburger, collectible movie prints from Classic Stills plus other surprises from Hasbro, Mattel, 3D Retro Collectibles and more that will debut next summer.

Playmobil has a new toy line celebrating the 35th Anniversary of "Back To The Future"

Publishing program expands with new novelty formats from Running Press and Insight Editions, a new comic series from IDW Publishing, along with existing fan-favorites from other partners, such as:

• Back to the Future: DeLorean Time Machine – Owner's Workshop Manual 
• Back to the Future: The Ultimate Visual History 
• William Shakespeare's Get Thee Back to the Future 
• Back to the Future: The Classic Illustrated Storybook 
• and much more...

New publishing offering, "DeLorean Time Machine: Owner's Workshop Manual" celebrating the iconic film "Back To The Future"

A lifestyle collection of apparel and accessories includes fun, retro looks that are still relevant today. Expected partners include Criminal Damage, Box Lunch, Dumbgood, Haus of JR, Hot Topic, Just Hype, Primark, Suavecito, Super 7, Zara and more. Rubies and FUN.com will have costumes for fan celebrations beyond Halloween. 

With a nod to the nostalgia trend, Universal has once again partnered with the Otis School of Design for a special "Back to the Future" collection designed by students to be presented at the annual scholarship and benefit fashion show in Spring 2020.

Where we're going, we don't need roads… be on the lookout for theatrical events and the debut of the "Back to the Future" trilogy in 4K from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, as well as a celebration from Turner Classic Movies (TCM) later in 2020.

Fans won't want to miss Back to the Future The Musical, directed by Tony Award winner John Rando, which opens for a 12-week run at the Manchester Opera House on February 20, 2020. The musical features a book by the film's co-creator and co-writer Bob Gale, and new music and lyrics by Alan Silvestri (who composed the score for the original 1985 film) and Glen Ballard.

• The anniversary will be commemorated by Universal Parks & Resorts, key retail partners and more. Visit the Back to the Future page on Facebook for details.

Back to the Future

About Back to the Future

From the Academy Award-winning filmmakers Robert Zemeckis and Steven Spielberg comes Back to the Future - the original, groundbreaking adventure that sparked one of the most successful trilogies ever! 

When teenager Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is blasted to 1955 in the DeLorean time machine created by the eccentric Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd), he finds himself mixed up in a time-shattering chain reaction that could vaporize his future - and leave him trapped in the past. 

Powered by innovative special effects, unforgettable songs and non-stop action, Back to the Future is an unrivaled adventure that stands the test of time.

SOURCE: Universal Brand Development

Bentley Centenary Celebration Captivates New York City

Bentley owners and enthusiasts gathered at Citi Field to caravan into New York City. The group was led by a Bentley Flying Spur, the third generation of the luxury 4-door sedan, which goes on sale in 2020.

New York City hosted one of the culminating events of Bentley Motors Centenary celebrations featuring events for everyone to enjoy. The festivities started at Citi Field, the major league baseball facility located in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, where Bentley owners gathered and then caravanned to Brookfield Place. Upon arrival at the open-air plaza in Lower Manhattan, owners offered a cost-free display of their prized vehicles. Finally, the day ended with a gala event at the Conrad Hotel.

Weekend visitors wandering through Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan were treated to a display of historic Bentley models, including the 1958 S1 Continental Fastback (left) and the 1955 Type R Continental Fastback (right).

"Bentley owners and enthusiasts of the brand have been celebrating our Centenary for the past year at locations around the world," said Christophe Georges, President and CEO, Bentley Americas. "It is appropriate that Bentley came to New York City, one of the most important cities in the world, a truly international city, and home to many Bentley owners."

The Bentley EXP100GT mesmerized young and old, the concept car was on display at Brookfield Place in Lower Manhattan yesterday (Saturday, October 19, 2019)

Thousands of New Yorkers and visitors to the city had a chance to see vehicles that are the epitome of performance and luxury. Nearly everyone was seeing the future of Bentley for the first time through the lens of the Bentley EXP100GT, the concept car developed for Bentley's Centenary. Walter Owen (W.O.) Bentley established the company on July 10, 1919, and the company celebrated 100 years later with the introduction of the concept car.

Bentley Designer Brett Boydel, right, describes features of the Bentley concept car, the EXP100GT.

The EXP100GT was inspired by the company's deep understanding of the desires of its intelligent, forward-thinking customers and proposes a vehicle that could be available by 2035. It combines sustainable materials and future luxury mobility innovations. Beautifully styled, it embraces Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a means to reassert the car as a place for creating, experiencing, and capturing extraordinary human experiences and emotions. The EXP100GT was developed as a fully electric vehicle and showcases the best thinking in what a Grand Tourer could be in the future, allowing the driver to choose when to drive and when to enjoy autonomous mobility.

The Bentley Flying Spur, which goes on sale during the second quarter of 2020, made its New York debut this weekend.

Guests also enjoyed Bentley's current vehicle models. The new Bentley Flying Spur, a four-door sedan that goes on sale in the US in the second quarter of 2020, was displayed and led the caravan from Citi Field. The new Continental GT and GT Convertible, on sale in the US since last month, were available for viewing, as were several Bentley Bentayga SUVs, the first luxury SUV ever.

SOURCE: Bentley

#RegalZombieScheme - Regal Transforms Into "ReGhoul" With Trial Employment Of Zombies

"After a ghouling hiring process, Regal is exploring the possibility of placing zombies at all theatres across the nation..." (image via LoupDargent.info)

Regal announced its transformation to "ReGhoul," a zombie employment program that will debut across select theatres nationwide. Launching in conjunction with the release of Sony Pictures' Zombieland: Double Tap today, Oct. 18, the arrangements were made by Regal in attempt to engage the zombie community.

"We are dead-icated to bringing a diverse and inclusive workforce into our theatres with the trial employment of zombies," said Richard Grover, Vice President of Communications. "Regal offers an array of career opportunities and ensures the best for its employees. It thrills us to provide customers with to-die-for customer satisfaction and cinematic experiences."

In anticipation of one of the biggest film releases this month, Zombieland: Double Tap, starring Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone and Abigail Breslin, zombie shifts will begin tonight. Each zombie will be expected to conduct a multitude of jobs, including those at the concession stand, box office and in theatre upkeep.

After a ghouling hiring process, Regal is exploring the possibility of placing zombies at all theatres across the nation. Regal encourages guests to visit and share their experience on social media using #RegalZombieScheme.

Zombieland: Double Tap:

About Zombieland: Double Tap: 

A decade after Zombieland became a hit film and a cult classic, the lead cast (Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Abigail Breslin, and Emma Stone) have reunited with director Ruben Fleischer (Venom) and the original writers Rhett Reese & Paul Wernick (Deadpool) for Zombieland: Double Tap. 

In the sequel, written by Rhett Reese & Paul Wernick and Dave Callaham, through comic mayhem that stretches from the White House and through the heartland, these four slayers must face off against the many new kinds of zombies that have evolved since the first movie, as well as some new human survivors. 

But most of all, they have to face the growing pains of their own snarky, makeshift family.

Directed by Ruben Fleischer. Written by Rhett Reese & Paul Wernick and Dave Callaham. Produced by Gavin Polone. Executive Producers Paul Wernick, Rhett Reese, Rebecca Rivo, Ruben Fleischer, David Bernad, Jack Heller and Doug Belgrad. The film stars Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg and Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin, Rosario Dawson, Zoey Deutch and Luke Wilson.

SOURCE: Regal

The Trailer:

'Looking For Alaska' (Music From The Hulu Series) Available Everywhere Now

'Looking For Alaska' (Music From The Hulu Series)

Milan Records, an imprint of Sony Music Masterworks, today releases Looking for Alaska (Music from the Hulu Series). The album includes music from Hulu's newest original limited series, produced by Josh Schwartz (The O.C., Gossip Girl) and based on John Green's bestselling novel. Set in 2005, the series features music specific to the early 2000s era, carefully curated by Schwartz and music supervisor Alexandra Patsavas (The O.C., The Twilight Series) as a sonic companion to the show's coming-of-age narrative. 

The nostalgia-inducing repertoire includes much-loved tracks from Bloc Party, The Strokes, José González, Rilo Kiley, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah and Modest Mouse, as well as newly recorded covers of the era's biggest hits by contemporary, up-and-coming artists Bailen, BEGINNERS, Fleurie, Kat Cunning, Mating Ritual, Miya Folick and Young Summer.

"Building this soundtrack with Alex Patsavas and Stephanie Savage has been one of the most fun and fulfilling parts of Looking for Alaska," says show creator and executive producer Josh Schwartz. "Hearing these songs again was like visiting with old friends -- and they only get better with time! We're also really grateful to the artists who performed original covers and brought their own unique take and creativity to these iconic songs." 

"Looking for Alaska is such a beautiful, yet timeless coming-of-age story," adds music supervisor Alexandra Patsavas. "The mix of songs in the show speaks to that timelessness by combining original artists from the era (The Strokes and Modest Mouse) with current versions of the era's best (Death Cab For Cutie ) by some of the most important new artists of 2019."

Looking for Alaska

Streaming exclusively on Hulu now, Looking for Alaska is an 8-episode limited series based on the John Green novel of the same name. It centers around teenager Miles "Pudge" Halter (Charlie Plummer), as he enrolls in boarding school to try to gain a deeper perspective on life. He falls in love with Alaska Young (Kristine Froseth) and finds a group of loyal friends. But after an unexpected tragedy, Miles and his close friends attempt to make sense of what they've been through.

The series stars Charlie Plummer, Kristine Froseth, Denny Love, Jay Lee, Landry Bender, Sofia Vassilieva, Uriah Shelton, and Jordan Connor. Ron Cephas Jones (This Is Us) and Timothy Simons (Veep) also star.

Created for television by Josh Schwartz, the series comes from Paramount Television and Schwartz and Stephanie Savage's Fake Empire. Savage and Schwartz will serve as executive producers. Alongside Jessica Tuchinsky, Mark Waters, John Green, and Marty Bowen and Isaac Klausner of Temple Hill. Fake Empire exec Lis Rowinski will co-executive produce. Sarah Adina Smith (Hanna, Legion) directs the first episode.

Looking for Alaska

'Looking For Alaska' (Music From The Hulu Series) Tracklisting:

1. So Here We Are – Bloc Party
2. I Will Follow You Into The Dark – Miya Folick (Death Cab For Cutie cover)
3. Ask Me Anything – The Strokes
4. To Be Alone With You – Fleurie (Sufjan Stevens cover)
5. Crosses – José González
6. Orange Sky – Kat Cunning (Alexi Murdoch Cover)
7. Macarena – BEGINNERS (Los Del Rio Bayside Boys Remix Cover)
8. With Arms Outstretched – Rilo Kiley
9. Salvation – Bailen (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club cover)
10. The Skin of My Yellow Country Teeth – Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
11. Take Me Out – Young Summer (Franz Ferdinand cover)
12. An Honest Mistake – Mating Ritual (feat. Lizzy Land) (The Bravery cover)
13. The World at Large – Modest Mouse
14. Looking for Alaska Score Suite – Siddhartha Khosla

SOURCE: Sony Music Masterworks

Related Video:

Ministry of Woke Debuts Single 'Orwellian World', Uses Hip-Hop to Tackle Military Industrial Complex, in Time for Canadian Elections [Video Included]

'Orwellian World' by Ministry of Woke uses hip-hop to address the dangers of military industrial complex

Ministry of Woke, a brand-new band, based out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada is debuting their single, 'Orwellian World', to tackle the issue of military industrial complex. It addresses the young generation's frustration with politicians engaging in reckless arms trade with dictatorships, particularly Saudi Arabia, but also other dictatorships such as UAE, Syria and Bahrain and authoritarian leaders of nations such as China and Russia. It draws parallels between the current Saudi-led genocide in Yemen and the Holocaust. 

• The song, while composed in English, features a phrase each from Arabic, Hebrew, and Farsi.

'Orwellian World' by Ministry of Woke

'Orwellian World' is inspired partly by George Orwell's classic novel, 1984, and draws on many concepts and ideas in the novel. It also draws on the artists' own experiences as a victim of terrorism, including terrorist events that were financed by Saudi Arabian monarchs.

Ministry of Woke's current focus is on releasing the album to coincide with the Canadian federal elections, and bringing focus to Canada's role in the genocide in Yemen. 

• The band may re-release the same song or a similar song in the future to coincide with American 2020 elections. 

The single, 'Orwellian World' addresses the ill effects of military industrial complex from a global perspective and points out the problems associated with it, especially in relation to arms sales to dictatorships like Saudi Arabia.

End Arms Sales - Stop arming dictators!

With the current Canadian focus, the band's website forwards to endarmssales.com, which also belongs to the artists, to educate all Canadian voters, young and old, about the devastation Canada is engaging in by trading arms with the Saudi dictatorship. 

They are asking the question "How Are We Different From The Nations That Traded Arms With Nazi Germany?".

The Lyrics:

"We live in a crazy Orwellian world War is peace and peace is war Politicians cryin’ out their crocodile tears Always feeding on our fears Paying fake homage to the holocaust Selling weapons at the highest cost selling genocide to dictators Yeah they are nothing but a bunch of rich traitors I see the reflection of Auschwitz in Yemeni farms and townships selling them arms to the Arabian Nazi who call the land of Hijaz Saudi! In the impoverished deserts profiting weapons and famine While shareholders are purchasing yachts Yemeni children starve getting their world torn apart our generation will be different No more military industrial complex No more war, no more ignorance No blood stained pay checks We’re millennials and generation X We’re educated, we’re the apex, we waste less We ain’t impatient, we’re just tired of waiting tired of doublethink, doublespeak and double standards, time to double down or beat it Vote with your money, vote with your vote Raise your avaaz and say “no more”! I grew up In Karachi terrorised by Taliban My school was bombed twice my uncle paid the sacrifice they blew the mosque at Friday prayer The story’s like a nightmare Terrorists give a damn about places of prayers And Don’t expect to see this on TV or CNN nightly lullabys of gun fire houses surrounded with barbed wire daily Saudi terrorism Victimized by fascism We became numb to the crimes and violence And never ending sirens I left Pakistan to start anew came to the west and I bid Pakistan adieu I am not Liberal nor Conservative nor Republican, Democrat or Alternative Jesus or Mohammed wouldn’t sell arms that cause genocide and so much harm there is no permanence with you and me Only God willing permanent peace with human beings love your neighbour as you love yourself ואהבת לרעך כמוך Ve Ahav’ta Lere akha Kamokha (Hebrew: love your neighbour As you love thyself) our generation will be different No more military industrial complex No more war, no more ignorance No blood stained pay checks We’re millennials and generation X We’re educated, we’re the apex, we waste less We ain’t impatient, we’re just tired of waiting tired of doublethink, doublespeak and double standards, time to double down or beat it Vote with your money, vote with your vote Raise your avaaz and say “no more”! گه زیادی نخور goh ziyadi nakhor (Farsi: don't eat a lot of shit) Americans suffering from fake news CNN had us long confused The Sun, The Posts, The Daily Mail We’re drinking cocktail of lies Fox the biggest fake news of all has foxed us Murdoch is leading US to its downfall, too astounding lying to us selling bloodshed Spending trillions of tax dollars on the manslaughter attacks Who’s the antagonist and the protagonist act? امر بالمعروف و نہی عن المنکر Amr bil Maaroof Wa nahi Anil Munkar (Arabic: Enjoin The good And forbid the wrong/evil) Gold around Obama, Harper and Trump collars bowed down to dictators drooling over petro dollars we will end racism, and anti-Semitism we will end Islamophobia and sexism will will end homophobia and fascism we will end all phobias and every “isms”! x2 our generation will be different No more military industrial complex No more war, no more ignorance No blood stained pay checks We’re millennials and generation X We’re educated, we’re the apex, we waste less We ain’t impatient, we’re just tired of waiting tired of doublethink, doublespeak and double standards, time to double down or beat it Vote with your money, vote with your vote Raise your avaaz and say “no more”!"

The Video:

The song is available on most major streaming platforms:

• Spotify:
• Apple Music:
• iTunes:
• Amazon Music

SOURCE: Ministry of Woke

Stars Speak up for Working Animals Overseas in New Animated Film for Charity SPANA [Video Included]

Brian Blessed, Deborah Meaden and Peter Egan lend voices to highlight the plight of animals overseas

Actor Brian Blessed OBE, Dragons' Den entrepreneur Deborah Meaden, and Downton Abbey and After Life 2 star Peter Egan, have joined together to speak up for working animals around the world, in a new animated film for the charity SPANA (the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad).

SPANA improves the welfare of working animals in 26 developing countries worldwide, providing free veterinary treatment, training for owners in how to better look after their animals and humane education for school children.

The film aims to raise awareness of the lives of working animals overseas by showing the solidarity of our own working animals on strike. A sniffer dog (voiced by Brian Blessed), police horse (Peter Egan) and sheepdog (played by Deborah Meaden) are comically shown ignoring their daily duties and protesting in solidarity with animals in developing countries.

Around the world, more than 200 million working animals, such as horses, donkeys, camels and elephants, support the livelihoods of more than half a billion people in the poorest communities. By transporting food, water, firewood and people, they make it possible for families to earn a small income.

However, these animals often endure terrible working conditions, carrying backbreaking loads in extreme temperatures. In the vast majority of cases, they face short and painful lives, with no access to veterinary care when they are sick or injured.

Brian Blessed (image via SPANA)

Brian Blessed said: 'I support SPANA's work wholeheartedly, and it was wonderful to be a part of this new film. In the poorest communities across the world, people work tirelessly to simply put food on the table for their families – and working animals are their lifeline. The lives of these people and animals are unimaginably difficult, but we can help make a considerable difference to them.'

The Video:

• SPANA worked with award-winning agency Don't Panic to create the awareness-raising film.

SOURCE: SPANA

More Magic Awaits … Be the First to Unlock It With Wizarding World Gold

More Magic Awaits … Be the First to Unlock It With Wizarding World Gold (PRNewsfoto/Wizarding World Digital)

Today, we are delighted to announce further details about Wizarding World Gold, an annual, paid subscription which will unlock early access, exclusive benefits and enhanced experiences when it officially launches later this autumn.

• This spellbinding, new subscription will offer fans the opportunity to enhance their free Official Harry Potter Fan Club experience and is available to pre-order from today. 

Subscribers to Wizarding World Gold can look forward to a host of new benefits, including a magical welcome gift, currently not available anywhere else! The gift includes the interactive Keys and Curios journal, featuring a specially designed cover by MinaLima - the graphic design team behind some of the most iconic and memorable visuals from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films.

This beautiful and intricate journal will arrive personalised with your name, Hogwarts house and more – meaning no two journals will be the same. Inside, you'll discover interactive secrets and surprises, which are updated monthly and are unlocked as you explore the new Wizarding World app.

• Also included in the gift is a postcard print of J.K. Rowling's original Hogwarts sketch and an exclusive collectible pin badge, which features the Enchanted Key emblem!

As well as your welcome gift, a year's Wizarding World Gold subscription will unlock:

• Wizarding World Originals – Immerse yourself in our new video series which is set to unravel the mysteries and uncover the secrets from all corners of the Wizarding World. Learn about the creative talent and craftspeople who bring you closer to the magic in The Workshop and discover our pick of behind-the-scenes content in From The Archive.
• eBooks – Take the magic of J.K. Rowling wherever you go with all seven eBooks of the original Harry Potter stories, available on the Wizarding World app for the duration of your subscription.
• Collectible pin badges - You'll receive the first pin badge in your welcome gift. Plus, claim collectible pin badges from selected Wizarding World UK and US locations including: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child theatres in London, New York & San Francisco, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London and Hollywood as well as at the iconic Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ in King's Cross Station, London.
• Special events – Get access to Gold subscriber events throughout the year, such as the Wizarding World Christmas Party in the Great Hall at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London later this year.
• Exclusive discounts - Enjoy discounts from the new Wizarding World.com shop, the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ in King's Cross Station, London, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Exclusive Vacation Package at Universal Orlando Resort, as well as Warner Bros. Studio Tour stores in both London and Hollywood.
• Priority booking - Look forward to priority access to tickets for the most popular Wizarding World events and locations, including Harry Potter and the Cursed Child shows in London, New York and San Francisco as well as Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter.
• Early access - Unlock early access to limited-edition Wizarding World Gold merchandise ranges and curious collectibles - before they go on general release.
• Plus, plenty of perks – including new quizzes and puzzles, chances to win once in-a-lifetime experiences and much, much more!

Fans can enjoy all this for just $74.99 (US) or £59.99 (UK) per year. In addition, Wizarding World Gold will soon be available to purchase as a gift box subscription - the perfect present for any Harry Potter fan! It launches this autumn online at WizardingWorld.com, the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station in London as well as Warner Bros Studio Tour Gift Shops in London and Hollywood.

Want to be among the first to get your hands on a Keys and Curios journal? Fans can pre-order their Wizarding World Gold subscription from today on WizardingWorld.com, with full benefits unlocked later this autumn.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter (Image from Warner Bros.)

About Wizarding World Digital  

Wizarding World Digital is a joint venture between Pottermore Ltd and Warner Bros. and is dedicated to delivering innovative and digital experiences for all fans of the Wizarding World. In 2019, it launched the Wizarding Passport, Wizarding World mobile app, WizardingWorld.com and The Official Harry Potter Fan Club.

About Wizarding World

More than two decades ago, a young Harry Potter was whisked onto platform nine and three-quarters at King's Cross Station, and readers everywhere were swept along with him into a magical universe, created by J.K. Rowling. In the years since, the seven Harry Potter bestsellers have inspired eight blockbuster movies, an award-winning stage play, and, more recently, the start of the Fantastic Beasts five-film series. People of all ages have been enthralled by these extraordinary adventures, set within an expanding universe, inspired by the vision of J.K. Rowling. For today's growing worldwide fan community, and for generations to come, the Wizarding World welcomes everyone to explore more of this magical universe — past, present and future. The Wizarding World also provides fans with an instant, trusted kite-mark of quality and authenticity.

About Pottermore Publishing

Pottermore Publishing is the global digital publisher of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series as well as other audiobooks and eBooks from the Wizarding World. It leads the way in innovative digital publishing and to bring new generations of readers together with long-standing fans, celebrating and bringing to life the stories that first began with the Boy Who Lived.

• Visit PottermorePublishing.com for the full range of publishing, including language availability as well as forthcoming releases.

SOURCE: Wizarding World Digital

During October's Adopt-a-Dog Month, American Humane and Hallmark Channel Remind Animal Lovers That Every Hero Needs a Home

During American Humane's 38th national "Adopt-a-Dog Month," the organization and Hallmark Channel are urging animal lovers everywhere to save a life by adopting a canine companion in need of a home.

For thousands of years, dogs have been our best friends, our protectors, and often our heroes, improving and even saving lives. That is why each October, American Humane, the country's first national humane organization and the nation's leading first responder for animals in need, encourages animal lovers to repay the favor by adopting a dog from a local shelter or rescue group during its annual "Adopt-a-Dog Month." 

This year, American Humane is teaming up with Hallmark Channel's "Adoption Ever After" campaign to help get more of the millions of beautiful animals left in shelters each year into forever homes. All throughout the month, you can go to AmericanHumane.org to find tips on preparing your home for a new four-legged companion, other vital information, and social media campaigns and blogs to help build a better world for our best friends.

If you're already a dog lover, or just need an extra push to bring home a pup waiting for your love, be sure to tune in to the 2019 American Humane Hero Dog Awards on Hallmark Channel Oct. 21 at 8 pm ET/7 pm CT (check local listings for exact date and time). The heartwarming stories of amazing dogs (including rescued shelter dogs) who improve and even save our lives will make you realize that every dog is a hero and every hero needs a home. 

• Make this the month you bring your hero home, watch the Hero Dog Awards, and spread the word with the hashtag #adoptioneverafter.

A poster from a previous 'Adopt-A-Dog Month' campaign (image via the American Humane site)

Here are a variety of ways to celebrate Adopt-A-Dog Month:

Adopt from a shelter or rescue group

When you're ready to open your heart and home to a new best friend, adopt from your local animal shelter or rescue group. Talk with shelter staff to find the perfect dog for you and your lifestyle, and remember that older dogs make excellent pets too.

Spay or neuter your dog

Have your dog spayed or neutered, thus preventing the possibility of unexpected, and potentially unwanted, puppies. Spayed and neutered animals have been shown to lead longer, healthier lives and have fewer of certain behavioral problems than animals who have not been spayed or neutered.

ID your pet

By putting identification on your dog, either in the form of a tag, a microchip or both, you will reduce the possibility that your pet will become one of the presumably "homeless" dogs that end up at your local shelter. Only 15-20 percent of dogs who enter a shelter are reunited with their owners. Make sure your dog is one of the fortunate few by outfitting him with proper identification!

Support your local shelter

Show the pets at your local shelter or rescue group that you care by donating time, money or supplies like pet food, leashes, beds and toys. Call the shelter to see what supplies or services are needed most. Even the smallest effort can make a difference.

SOURCE: American Humane

'Transparency: An LGBTQ+ Glass Art Exhibition' Makes West Coast Debut at Museum of Glass

Pearl Dick. Us, 2017. Blown, sculpted glass; 12 1/2 x 16 x 6 inches. (Photo by Randy Korwin. Courtesy of the National Liberty Museum.)

The nation's first museum exhibition of Studio Glass works produced exclusively by artists in the LGBTQ+ community, Transparency: An LGBTQ+ Glass Art Exhibition makes its West Coast debut at Museum of Glass on October 12, 2019. 

Curated and organized by the National Liberty Museum, this three-dimensional mediation on queer experience emphasizes the importance of being open about identity, a hallmark of liberty and creative freedom.

Transparency, which originally opened for Pride 2017, speaks both to the medium of glass and to the artists' freedom to acknowledge their identity, regardless of the political or artistic consequences. It includes work by more than 20 glass artists, including Nancy Callan, Pearl Dick, Tim Tate, Kim Harty, Joseph Sircoulomb, and Sabrina Knowles and Jenny Pohlman. The featured pieces were chosen by the artists, keeping with the spirit of self-advocacy and creative self-expression that characterizes Pride.

"The National Liberty Museum's mission is to promote freedom and self-expression, and nothing better exemplifies that more than this groundbreaking exhibition," said Meegan Coll, Director of Glass Programs at the National Liberty Museum. "We are so excited that we could partner with Museum of Glass to not only bring the work of these artists but also the message of Transparency to the West Coast."

The opening of Transparency at Museum of Glass correlates with Refract: The Seattle Glass Experience, happening October 17-20. Refract is the nation's newest festival showcasing creative uses of glass in the Pacific Northwest. 

• In partnership with Refract, Museum of Glass will celebrate Transparency with an opening party, including a meet and greet with several participating artists, DJ, cash bar, and free access from 12-2pm on Sunday, October 20.

'Seaform Pavilion, Chihuly Bridge of Glass' - Museum of Glass, Tacoma

About Museum of Glass

Located in Tacoma, Washington, Museum of Glass is a premier contemporary art museum dedicated to glass and glassmaking in the West Coast's largest and most active museum glass studio. 

Opened in 2002, the Museum has established a reputation for hosting impactful and engaging artist residencies, organizing nationally traveling exhibitions, and creating unique programs for visitors while building a growing permanent collection chronicling the development of modern and contemporary glass. 

Museum of Glass provides an environment for artists and the public to ignite creativity, fuel discovery, and enrich their lives through glass and glassmaking. 

• Museum of Glass is a non-profit organization sponsored in part by the City of Tacoma Arts Commission, ArtsFund, The Greater Tacoma Community Foundation, The Dimmer Family Foundation, and the Driscoll Foundation.

SOURCE: Museum of Glass

Get Free Comic Books During Halloween ComicFest at Local Comic Book Shops

Get Free Comic Books During Halloween ComicFest at Local Comic Book Shops (image via HalloweenComicFest.com)

On Saturday, October 26, participating comic shops across North America and around the world will hand out more than 1.7 million free comics to anyone who comes into their shop during Halloween ComicFest! During the event, anyone who goes into a participating comic shop can choose a free comic from the 28 titles available this year and participate in the fun Halloween-themed activities hosted by the comic shops. 

• The annual event is a great way to welcome curious, first-time readers as well as longtime comic book fans into local shops to experience all the horror comics and spooky delights comic shops have to offer.

Twenty-eight free comics, including 19 full-size comics and 9 mini comics can be picked up. This year's titles include Marvel Comics' Ghost Rider: King of Hell #1, Iron Man: Road to Iron Man 2020, Miles Morales: Spider-Man #0, Star Wars: Boba Fett #1; DC Comics' DCEASED #1, The Secret Spiral of Swamp Kid/ Black Canary: Ignite, and DC Superhero Girls: At Metropolis High; and Pokémon Adventures, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Spook House, among other spooktacular titles for comic readers of all ages.

Halloween ComicFest also features "The Greatest Halloween Costume Contest Ever!", running now through November 1st at 2pm EST. Fans can enter one of five categories – Superhero/Comics, Video Games, TV/Movie, Horror, or Original – just by taking a picture of themselves in costume and submitting the photo on the Halloween ComicFest website. Six winners will be selected at random: five first prize winners who will receive a $50 shopping spree to their local comic shop and one grand prize winner who will receive a $500 shopping spree to their local comic shop!

"We want communities to participate in Halloween ComicFest not only to discover the great selection of comics offered, but also to experience comic shops as premiere destinations for spooky Halloween fun. Your local comic shop is a great place to meet like-minded people and discover new comics and cool pop-culture items available each week and all year long," said Halloween ComicFest spokesperson Ashton Greenwood. "This year is the perfect time to visit your local comic book shop and celebrate Halloween ComicFest!"

• For more information about Halloween ComicFest, the free comics, costume contest, and to find a participating comic shop, go to halloweencomicfest.com. It's time to get in your Halloween costume and take your family and friends to check out the free comics and fun at your local comic shop!

About Halloween ComicFest

Halloween ComicFest is an annual event where participating comic book specialty shops across North America and beyond celebrate the Halloween season by giving away free comic books to anyone who comes into their shops. 

The event is held the Saturday before Halloween and is the perfect opportunity to introduce friends and family to the many reasons why comic shops are a great destination for Halloween themed comic books, products and merchandise. 

• From zombies, vampires, monsters and aliens to costumes and more, comic shops have it all when it comes to Halloween fun!

SOURCE: Halloween ComicFest

Nestlé Develops 'PB Triple Play' - A Fully Plant-Based 'Bacon Cheeseburger'

Nestlé debuting first-ever vegan bacon cheeseburger

Nestlé announced today that it has developed vegan alternatives to cheese and bacon, designed to complement its existing plant-based burger patties. This makes it the first food and beverage company to develop and produce all three essential elements for a no-compromise plant-based 'bacon cheeseburger'.

This complete burger solution will first be offered to professional clients such as restaurant and foodservice operators. Nestlé's plant-based burger patties are already available to food professionals, with the full package including the vegan alternatives to cheese and bacon following in 2020.

Nestlé CEO Mark Schneider said, "More and more consumers are looking for delicious, nutritious and sustainable plant-based options when they dine out. We have now raised the bar by developing a 'PB triple play' of ingredients for an all-time classic: the bacon cheeseburger. We're continuing to make good on our promise to offer consumers food that is right for them and right for the planet."

The 'PB triple play' is intended to appeal to consumers who are actively seeking to reduce meat in their diet and switch to plant-based meals more often. It delivers on familiar tastes that consumers are seeking out in plant-based alternatives. The vegan cheddar cheese alternative has the texture, meltability and delicious, rich taste of a dairy cheese. The vegan bacon alternative becomes crispy and chewy when cooked, similar to animal-based bacon, and has the same satisfying flavor.

With Nestlé's plant-based burger patties providing the perfectly juicy, meat-like base, the 'PB triple play' offers an amazing vegan burger experience. The plant-based 'bacon cheeseburger' is significantly lower in fat and saturated fat, free of cholesterol and has a higher fiber content compared to a standard bacon cheeseburger. Like Nestlé's existing plant-based offerings, the new products will also have a lower environmental footprint.

Nestlé leveraged its R&D expertise and proprietary technology to develop the vegan alternatives to cheese and bacon, using a combination of natural ingredients such as plant-based proteins, fibers and oils. In creating these ingredients, culinary chefs and food scientists worked alongside foodservice experts to tailor the products for use in professional kitchens, taking into account their specific cooking and serving requirements.

• The company also offers a variety of vegan burger sauces to create a completely plant-based and delicious burger experience.

The move is part of the Nestlé's efforts to speed up the transformation of its portfolio with innovative, sustainable products. Nestlé recently announced its ambition to achieve zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. This includes offering more plant-based food and beverages.

• Nestlé has already launched its Sweet Earth Awesome Burger in the United States and its Garden Gourmet Incredible Burger in Europe for retail and foodservices.

SOURCE: Nestlé

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