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Stand Up To Cancer Unites Hollywood

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 07: Sofia Vergara attends the sixth biennial Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) telecast at the Barkar Hangar on Friday, September 7, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Stand Up To Cancer via ABC) *** Local Caption *** Sofia Vergara

Stand Up To Cancer drew the support of Hollywood once again in an effort to raise money for cancer research and offer encouragement to those affected by the disease.

By: Lanae Brody

The organization celebrated its 10th year in big way with A-listers like Matt Damon, Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Garner and Bradly Cooper, who co-executive produced the televised event, all stepping out to take part in the organization’s important mission–funding for cancer research.

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 07: (L-R) Sarah Hyland, Julie Bowen, Ken Jeong, and Max Greenfield attend the sixth biennial Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) telecast at the Barkar Hangar on Friday, September 7, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Stand Up To Cancer)

“As someone whose family has been significantly touched by cancer, I am proud to again have the privilege of co-executive producing this year’s SU2C telecast,” Cooper said in a press release. “This show reminds everyone that you are never alone … that there is a community of support out there when you need it most. That’s the power of SU2C. Most importantly, the telecast showcases the significant progress being made in the fight against cancer, instilling hope in those facing the disease.”

Stand Up to Cancer was co-founded in 2008 by Katie Couric after her first husband, Jay Monahan, died of colon cancer in 1998 and her sister, Emily Couric, died of pancreatic cancer in 2001.

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 07: Katie Couric speaks onstage at the sixth biennial Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) telecast at the Barkar Hangar on Friday, September 7, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Stand Up To Cancer)

The charity holds an annual star-studded telethon and figures in the entertainment industry every year come out to support the cause and to help raise money. To date, Stand Up to Cancer has raised over $480 million dollars. The telecast is aired simultaneously on multiple networks and this year’s show was seen on ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC, along with Bravo, E!, Freeform, HBO, Showtime, Starz and TNT. It can later be streamed on ComedyCentral.com, Hulu and YouTube.

Stevie Wonder, Little Big Town and Charlie Wilson performed live on stage in Santa Monica, Calif. at the Barker Hanger and the show was co-hosted by Max Greenfield, Tyler Posey, and Brenda Song.

STAND UP TO CANCER – Featuring performances from top recording artists, and celebrities from film, television and sports, STAND UP TO CANCER will appeal to the public for support and donations to fund cutting-edge cancer research. The star-studded LIVE event, co-executive produced by Bradley Cooper along with Done + Dusted and the Stand Up To Cancer production team, will deliver a one-of-a-kind show by engaging viewers with powerful stories and a moving call-to-action. The program will include a celebrity phone bank that will allow viewers to interact with participating talent. Viewers will also be able to donate at StandUpToCancer.org/Show. One hundred percent of donations received from the public support Stand Up To Cancer’s collaborative cancer research programs. STAND UP TO CANCER airs Friday, September 7th (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT /7:00 PM CT) on The ABC Television Network. (ABC/Image Group LA)
STEVIE WONDER

Below is a list of all the talent who attended and helped raise money.

– Mahershala Ali
– Jason Bateman

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 07: Jason Bateman attends the sixth biennial Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) telecast at the Barkar Hangar on Friday, September 7, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Araya Diaz/Getty Images for Stand Up To Cancer via ABC) *** Local Caption *** Jason Bateman

– Kathy Bates
– Beth Behrs
– Julie Bowen
– Josh Brolin
– Katie Couric
– Kaley Cuoco
– Jesse Tyler Ferguson
– Jennifer Garner
– Max Greenfield
– Tony Hale

SANTA MONICA, CA – SEPTEMBER 07: Tony Hale attends the sixth biennial Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) telecast at the Barkar Hangar on Friday, September 7, 2018 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Stand Up To Cancer)

Stand Up to Cancer

– Jon Hamm
– Mark Harmon
– Marg Helgenberger
– Ed Helms
– Sarah Hyland
– Ken Jeong
– Adam Klein
– Tyler Labine
– Diego Luna
– Sonequa Martin-Green

Stand Up to Cancer

– Marlee Matlin
– Matthew McConaughey
– Maria Menounos
– Jillian Michaels
– Trevor Noah
– Dak Prescott
– Dave Price
– Keanu Reeves
– Italia Ricci
– Rob Riggle
– Tracee Ellis Ross
– Winona Ryder
– Jimmy Smits
– Karla Souza
– David Spade
– Eric Stonestreet
– Alison Sweeney
– Bree Turner
– Keith Urban
– Sofia Vergara
– Marlon Wayans
– Reese Witherspoon

For more information about Stand Up to Cancer visit https://standuptocancer.org/

September 8, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Usher Syndrome Can’t Rob Rebecca Alexander of Her Inspiring Spirit!

Usher Syndrome affects an estimated 25,000 individuals in the U.S. and Rebecca Alexander is one of those people. The native California woman has been fighting to not only raise awareness for the disease, but to help others with USH survive the devastating effects.

By: Lanae Brody

On the outside, Rebecca Alexander looks like every other beautiful, young and healthy woman roaming the streets of New York City, where she impressively earned two master degrees from Columbia. However, on the inside, a different picture is painted. One would never guess that she has trouble seeing all of the bright yellow cabs and hearing all of the food vendors trying to sell a hot dog to a tourist, but she does. Alexander suffers from a rare genetic disorder called Usher Syndrome type III, which has robbed her of her sight and hearing at a gradual pace. Though born with the disease, it wasn’t until she got a little older and had trouble seeing that prompted her parents to take action.

“I was diagnosed with RP, or the vision part of what I have when I was 12,” the San Francisco native shared with The Voluntourist. “My dad took me to the optometrist because I was having trouble seeing the blackboard at school in the sixth grade and the optometrist saw something in the back of my eye.”

The news about Usher Syndrome that followed from the various tests run by doctors all over the Bay Area took Alexander and her family by surprise as it showed long term problems were to come. “My parents were told that by the time I was 30 I would be completely blind,” she revealed.

But that wasn’t all. Away in Michigan at college, Alexander awoke to a loud ringing noise in her ears that just wouldn’t go away.

“The sensation was so loud that I couldn’t hear people speak to me over the ringing. After about one-and-a-half to two weeks, it wasn’t going away and I figured I really need to go get this checked out.”

After weeks of testing, the official diagnoses for USH, or Usher Syndrome, came in. Though Alexander showed no previous signs of hearing loss, the disease was slowly going to start taking her of her hearing on top of her sight.

However, rather than sit back and watch the Usher Syndrome disease comsume her life, she decided to take action. She writes in her book Not Fade Away: A Memoir of Senses Lost and Found, “I have one choice only and that’s looking forward to what’s ahead rather than back at what has been lost.”

So instead of feeling defeated, Alexander continues to not only live an active lifestyle and accomplishing major achievements like climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro, but she’s advocating for others with the disease.

She has been traveling to several different Major League Baseball parks across the country throwing out first pitches to raise awareness for the Usher Syndrome called the Strike Out Ush Movement which she started with one of her vision doctors who works with athletes.

Her message is to show MLB fans that we all have the ability to live a full and meaningful life no matter what our challenges. This initiative was initiated by Rebecca and Dr. Daniel Laby, an ophthalmologist that has worked with MLB for almost two decades. The program is implemented by the Needham, MA-based Usher Syndrome society’s Nancy Corderman.

“Because Usher Syndrome is an orphan disease, we’re really trying to get the word out and trying to find big ways to appeal to the masses and really create some sort of awareness that would bring people in to come together as a community so we started approaching MLB teams,” the already athletic psychotherapist and fitness instructor told The Voluntourist.

Since the disease has taken a lot of her vision and hearing, Alexander learned to sign so she could communicate still, however she now speaks perfectly and hears with her Cochlear™ implants.

“I’m far happier than I was back then and I never thought I’d feel that way, and that is because I am humbled on not only a daily basis, I’m humbled by the minute,” she said in an interview with Megyn Kelly. “You’re constantly reminded that we’re very fortunate for what we have. I’m 39 and I was told by 30 I would be completely blind and I have 10-20 degrees of my central vision. I was supposed to be completely blind 10 years ago. Perspective is so important. We consume ourself with minutia,” she added.

There are several ways to donate and give back to those suffering from USH, most prominently the UsherSyndromeSociety.

“The more people that get diagnosed and determined the type of Usher Syndrome they have, the more research that we can get funded that we can help try to get treatment.”

For more on Rebecca Alexander and her amazing story, follow her @reb_alexander and visit her site http://www.rebalexander.com/

September 7, 2018 admin Leave a comment

New England Travel Guide: Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine

New England Travel Guide: How to See Boston, New Hampshire and Maine in 9 Days
By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

New England is the northeastern area of the Unites States that’s comprised of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. The region is known for its Colonial history, beautiful fall foliage, rugged Atlantic coastline and of course delicious seafood. Each state has a distinct unique character with a diverse variety of things to do, making New England a premier getaway for travelers who want spectacular sightseeing, cultural attractions and an array of outdoor activities. While it’s unlikely to see all six states on one trip, you can absolutely do at least three. Here’s the itinerary I did and my New England travel guide for Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine.

Rockport, Maine
Photo by: Heather Newgen

New England Travel Guide Note: While you don’t need a car in Boston, you will for New Hampshire and Maine. When renting a car, consider getting the TollPass, which is a service that allows drivers to pay tolls electronically. There are numerous toll roads in Maine and a few in New Hampshire so to avoid paying cash, this is an option to think about.

New England Travel Guide: Day 1 Boston

You’ll fly into Logan Airport, which is a few miles away from where you’ll want to be in the city. It’s an easy airport to navigate your way around and you can grab an Uber or Lyft from any terminal. In addition, you can also take public transportation, there’s a great subway station connected to Logan that you can take into the city.

Boston Public Garden Photo by: Heather Newgen

New England Travel Guide: I took a red eye from Los Angeles and landed at 9am and then I went straight to my accommodations via Lyft and slept for a few hours. In the afternoon I went to Boston Public Garden, Beacon Hill and Dolce Vita Ristorante in the North End for dinner. For those with dietary restrictions, this restaurant, along with many others in the North End, offer gluten free pasta and dairy free entrees. For dessert head to Mike’s Pastry, which is down the street from Dolce Vita Ristorante, and have a cannoli. This is the place everyone goes in Boston for pastries. It’s cash only and usually crowed, so be prepared to wait.

New England Travel Guide: Where to Stay

Hotels and Airbnb’s are extremely expensive. It was shocking to see how pricey accommodations are in Boston, especially the closer you are in the city. Consider staying in the outskirts. I found a great two bedroom, one bath Airbnb in East Boston, which is just one subway stop away from Logan, for $150 a night. After fees I paid a little over $400 for two nights. I took Lyft into the city, which was a 15 minute drive.

New England Travel Guide: Day 2 Boston

On my first full day of the trip I was able to pack in a lot, but I didn’t feel like it was too much. I started off at Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market for clam chowder–there’s a stand that has dairy free chowder for people who can’t have or don’t want dairy. From there I went to Boston Harbor in hopes of taking a 90 minute cruise. However, it started raining, so I went to Top of the Hub restaurant to enjoy a glass of wine and amazing views of the city. I ended the day at Fenway Park for a Red Sox game and for anyone who wants a healthier snack option, there’s a vendor that has salads and veggie dogs.

View of the field from my seat at Fenway Park

Fenway Park

New England Travel Guide Tip: Go to Top of the Hub first order a cocktail and enjoy the view. If you feel like you want to see more of a panoramic view, pay the $20 and go to Skywalk. And if you have more time in Boston, you can take a day trip to Cape Cod and Nantucket, take the Freedom Trail tour, visit Harvard Square, USS Constitution, John Hancock Tower, Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, shop on Newbury Street, visit the Paul Revere House, the New England Aquarium, or the Waterfront. And don’t forget to have a meal at Legal Sea Foods.

New England Travel Guide: Day 3 Salem and Hampton Beach

In the morning I picked up my rental car and headed to Salem, Mass., which is about a 40 minute drive. I spent a few hours there exploring the Salem Witch Village that has museums, shops and tours. If you’re a TV buff you can check out the Bewitched statue and there’s also a lot of great restaurants–I ate at Life Alive, which is vegan. If witches and hauntings aren’t your thing, you can visit the Peabody Museum, and the Salem Maritime State Park, which is beautiful.

Bewitched

New England Travel Guide: After Salem I drove 50 minutes to Hampton Falls, New Hampshire to visit the Applecrest Orchard, a place I couldn’t get enough of. In the week I was in Hampton Beach, I went there three times. They have delicious apple cider, apple cinnamon donuts, fresh produce and a cute bistro where you can dine in. And you can pick apples and other fruit there! In front of the orchard is an ice cream shop where they have vegan ice cream and gluten free cone options.

Vegan Ice Cream

Heather Newgen at Applecrest Orchard
Photo by: Michael Lee

New England Travel Guide: From there I went to Hampton Beach, which is just a quick 10 minute drive, and checked into my accommodations for the week at Mike’s Cottages. Situated just a block away from the beach, Mike’s Cottages is a great place for families and groups of friends traveling on a budget since each cottage can accommodate up to 12 people. If you’re looking for a welcoming, fun and convenient area to stay in, this is your spot. Mike Vagnoni, the owner, goes out of his way to assist his guests, offering them free popcorn and movies, and is available anytime. Mike’s Cottages is pet friendly, there are two grills on the property for you to use and there’s free parking.

Owner Mike Vagnoni and Dawson
Photo by: Michael Lee

New England Travel Guide: Since summer is the prime season for tourists, you must rent a cottage for a week–Saturday to Saturday, and bring your own bedding. The kitchen comes equipped with a refrigerator and fully stocked with cooking supplies like pots, pans and utensils. And if you’re lucky, Mike will invite you into his office to play with his adorable dog Dawson and tell you interesting stories from his countless celebrity encounters! Mike is very sweet and you won’t find a better location for the value. I loved my time here and enjoyed getting to know Mike. As he says, “This ain’t the Four Seasons,” but it’s practical, super cute, affordable and an amazing area to spend a few days.

Mike’s Cottages
Photo by: Michael Lee

New England Travel Guide: Day 4 Camden Maine

On my first full day in New Hampshire, I took the longest road trip I had planned to Camden, Maine to get it out of the way. Plus I was dying to go, so I did the 2.5 hour drive each way and had a wonderful time. On the way to Camden you’ll find the famous Red’s Eats lobster shack, which is about a two hour wait in line just to order. So if you have the time and don’t mind, go for it, otherwise walk across the street and eat at Sprague’s Lobster.

New England Travel Guide: In Camden the harbor park is beautiful and a must see, the little downtown strip is colorful and has unique shops and be sure to drive up Mount Battie for incredible views of the city. You can also kayak, take a boat tour where you’ll see lighthouses or drive 26 miles to Marshall Point Lighthouse, which is in “Forrest Gump.” After driving around Camden, I made my way to Rockport, Maine, which is equally as picturesque and had dinner at 18 Central Oyster Bar & Grill to watch the sunset.

Camden Harbor
Photo by: Heather Newgen

New England Travel Guide: Day 5 Beach Day-Hampton Beach

Since we stayed near the beach, of course we had to have a day where we enjoyed the boardwalk and lounged in the sun. There’s a lot of great places in Hampton Beach to visit, but the boardwalk is especially remarkable because it elicits a nolgastic feel as you stroll along the shops filled with saltwater taffy, old-school arcades and carnival type food. It has such a throwback vibe that it’s like you’re in the 1987 film “The Lost Boys.” I loved it! The two restaurants I recommend are Lupe’s 55 Cantina–there are two separate locations on the boardwalk and Boardwalk Cafe.

Photo by: Michael Lee

New England Travel Guide: Day 6 Kancamagus Highway

One of the things you must do in New Hampshire is drive the 34 mile scenic Kancamagus Highway. It’s about an hour away from Hampton Beach and there’s beautiful hiking trails, campgrounds and places to pull over to take in the stunning views. At the end of the highway, you’ll wind up in a town called Lincoln. There you can visit the Franconia Notch State Park, hike Flume Gorge and see the ice castles if you’re there during winter. But, please do not go to Clark’s Trading Post. They have circus and bear shows, which is highly unethical. Animals are not for our entertainment purposes.

Photo by: Michael Lee

New England Travel Guide: Day 7 Kennebunkport and Portland

Maine is so beautiful and not that far from Hampton Beach, so you’ll absolutely want to go back. Kennebunkport is just less than an hour away and it’s famous for the President Bush compound, it’s natural beauty and great beaches. It’s a small town and the best way to see it is by the 45 minute trolley sightseeing tour. It’s $16.00 per person and your driver gives you interesting details and facts about the area along the way.

Kennebunkport
Photo by: Heather Newgen

New England Travel Guide: Portland is just a little further from Kennebunkport and this is where you’ll see the famed Portland Head Lighthouse. It’s free to go and if you’re a local you can volunteer in the museum and gift shop, which is how travelers are able to visit at no cost. If employees are hired, there would be an entrance fee to the lighthouse, so volunteers are very appreciated.

Heather Newgen at Portland Head Lighthouse

New England Travel Guide: There are a couple other lighthouses you can see that are about a 10 minute drive from Portland Head, called Two Lights, but they are on private property and not open to the public. While you can’t approach them, you can drive by and snap a quick photo. They’re on the same street in a quiet residential area so please do not disturb the neighborhood.

Two Lights

New England Travel Guide: Day 8 Portsmouth and Rye

Portsmouth is a charming city that’s just 20 minutes from Hampton Beach. There you’ll find a large selection of fantastic restaurants like the popular spot Colby’s Breakfast & Lunch, endless frosty ales at numerous breweries throughout Portsmouth, boutiques, the outdoor museum Strawberry Banke and unforgettable views from Prescott Park.

Portsmouth
Photo by: Heather Newgen

New England Travel Guide: Rye is another coastal town that’s located in between Hampton Beach and Portsmouth. It’s a small area that you can explore in just a few hours, but there’s a lot to Rye. The beaches are beautiful, there’s fun lobster shacks along the side of the road to stop at and the marsh is extraordinary to look at.

Rye, NH
Photo by: Heather Newgen

New England Travel Guide: Day 9 Volunteer on Hampton Beach

I always try to volunteer on every trip I take and this time I worked with Blue Ocean Society, an organization that’s dedicated to protecting marine life in the Gulf of Maine. There are several projects you can choose to do, but I did the microplastic research even. “Microplastics are defined as plastics between 1-5mm in size. They can include fragments of larger plastics such as bottles, films from straw wrappers, pieces of foam, and filaments of rope or synthetic fibers,” the Blue Ocean Society website states.

New England Travel Guide: Volunteers sift through the sand on different beaches in New Hampshire collecting samples of microplastics, which is then taken to a research lab to study the damaging effects the material has on the planet. I loved the volunteer work and the organization. I went to two different beaches-Hampton Beach and Jenness Beach in Rye, which was much cleaner because there weren’t as many tourists. It was more of a local scene and the difference in how they treated the beach compared to those just visiting was instantly noticeable.

Marine life depend on the oceans for survival so I loved this project because I did feel like I made a small contribution towards protecting their environment, plus it’s free to volunteer. There’s no program fee.

I volunteered for a few hours and enjoyed the rest of the day on the beach relaxing before heading back to Boston the next morning at 5:00am for my flight back to LA.

September 7, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Trailing of the Sheep Festival Volunteer Opportunities

Trailing of the Sheep Festival not offers an unforgettable adventure, but fun volunteer opportunities!

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

While Sun Valley, Idaho is known for its premier ski resorts, A-list celebrity cliental and glamorous, yet rural flair, it’s also become known for the unique Trailing of the Sheep Festival– the year’s most anticipated event. The festival honors the longstanding tradition of moving sheep (‘trailing’) from the high mountains to the valley for winter grazing and has taken place for the last 22 years during the second week of October.

Photo courtesy of Trailing of the Sheep FestivalThe five-day family friendly function celebrates the people, arts, cultures and customs of sheep ranching in Idaho and the West. Thousands attend to watch the preservation of history and enjoy the action-packed activities, but for many it’s also an opportunity to give back.

Photo courtesy of Trailing of the Sheep Festival

The Trailing of the Sheep Festival is a 501(c)3 non-profit and needs volunteers to help with the event. Tasks include: taking tickets, ushering, hosting presenters and performers, working events, assisting at headquarters, helping the press, working at the Sheep Dog trials and tending bar. Although volunteers are expected to fulfill their responsibilities, it’s not all work. You can watch the performances, get to know the performers and have fun meeting people from all over the country.

Photo courtesy of Trailing of the Sheep Festival

And for those who plan on attending, there’s a lot to look forward to. Highlights for the 2018 festival include:

-Culinary Events with Lamb Tastings, Lamb Fest at the Folklife Fair, Cooking with Lamb classes, Farm to Table Lamb Dinners and more

-NEW in 2018: Taste & Craft, a local and regional tasting experience, with the Trailing of the Sheep Festival as beneficiary

-Wool Fest with classes and workshops

Photo courtesy of Trailing of the Sheep Festival

-Sheep Tales Gathering, Hikes and Histories featuring Idaho’s sheep ranchers and renowned storytellers

-Sheep Folklife Fair featuring the Basque, Scottish, Polish & Peruvian dancers and musicians, sheep shearing, folk, fiber and traditional artists, children’s activities and more

-Sheep Jam party with food and live music by The Dusty 45s

-Two-and-a-half days of Championship Sheepdog Trials with 70 of the county’s most talented border collies

Photo courtesy of Trailing of the Sheep Festival

-Trailing of the Sheep Parade with 1,500 sheep trailing down Main Street in Ketchum

Trailing of the Sheep Festival takes place October 10th-14 and for more information visit www.trailingofthesheep.org.

To volunteer click here.

September 6, 2018 admin

Matthew Shepard Foundation Partners with Chavez for Charity

Matthew Shepard was the victim of a brutal hate crime two decades ago and on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the violent and deadly assault, Chavez For Charity is partnering with The Matthew Shepard Foundation to create the “Erase Hate” bracelet in his memory. A percentage of the proceeds will benefit the charity, started by his parents in an effort to promote understanding, compassion, and acceptance while highlighting the importance of embracing diversity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community.

The beautifully designed bracelet displays black matte agate beads with a silver medallion declaring “Erase Hate” at the center. In addition to the bracelet, Chavez For Charity has also created “Erase Hate” T-shirts and totes, which will also benefit The Matthew Shepard Foundation. The collection can be found online at chavezforcharity.com/collections/erase-hate or at select retailers near you.

Matthew Shepard’s story resonated with people worldwide with their hearts broken for the hatred and discrimination shown, but determined to make a change. His passing became a catalyst in the modern movement for equality, encouraging people to spread the message that all people are created equal and to “Erase Hate.” The Matthew Shepard Foundation strives to empower individuals and communities to replace hate within their schools and neighborhoods, with understanding and compassion.

“Our partnership with Chavez for Charity has flourished since they began supporting us in 2013. For them to go above and beyond with creating an entire campaign around our erase hate motto is the perfect tribute to our 20th anniversary year and to Matt,” said Judy Shepard, mother of Matthew Shepard and founder of The Matthew Shepard Foundation. “We are so thankful and proud of this partnership!”

Photo courtesy of Chavez for Charity

“Supporting the foundation and observing the 20th anniversary of Matthew’s unforgettable story is an opportunity for us to reflect on the shifts that have happened, yet still acknowledge how far there is to go,” added Julie Chavez, founder of Chavez for Charity.

The philanthropic campaign is taking to social media to encourage supporters to post their message of love by using the handle @ChavezForCharity and the hashtag #EraseHate.

About The Matthew Shepard Foundation

The Matthew Shepard Foundation’s longstanding mission is to erase hate by replacing it with understanding, compassion and acceptance. Through local, regional and national outreach, we empower individuals to find their voice to create change and challenge communities to identify and address hate that lives within their schools, neighborhoods and homes.

Our work is an extension of Matt’s passion to foster a more caring and just world. We share his story and embody his vigor for civil rights to change the hearts and minds of others to accept everyone as they are. https://www.matthewshepard.org/

About Chavez For Charity

When Julie Chavez founded Chavez for Charity in 2013, she had an ambitious vision – She wanted to create a line of colorful bracelets that would contribute, in a significant way, to some of the most important humanitarian issues facing our world today.

Leveraging her background as the founder and designer of the small, yet highly coveted, jewelry line – Marie Chavez, whose fans include A-list celebrities like Julia Roberts, Jennifer Garner, Rosario Dawson, and Anne Hathaway, Julie carefully crafted a brand that is unique in its mission and has a purpose much greater than profits.

Supporting their trademark phrase ‘Colors for Causes™’, each of the 10 colors in the collection represents a distinct cause. For every product sold, Chavez for Charity donates 25% of the profit to each color’s corresponding cause.

To date, Chavez for Charity has provided over 6,000 people in rural and impoverished communities with clean water; funded over 500 micro-loans for women entrepreneurs worldwide, covered 1,400 hours of critical pediatric cancer research, impacted 724 students in Ghana for a lifetime with Teacher Support Programming – and the list goes on.

With over 3,000 stores across the U.S. and Canada carrying their iconic bracelets, in 2018 Chavez for Charity will proudly celebrate 1.6 million dollars in donations. While this is a major milestone for the company, it is just the beginning of what they aspire to accomplish.

www.chavezforcharity.com

September 6, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Cairo, Giza & Memphis-Egypt’s Highlights

Cairo, Giza & Memphis highlights and travel tips.

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

Egypt is one of the most exciting and exotic destinations to visit. The history of the country dates back to 3100 B.C and was the leading civilization of the Mediterranean world. From the famous Giza Pyramids to its ancient historical importance, Egypt has long enticed travelers. However with the recent political turmoil and threats of terrorist attacks, many tourists have stopped visiting the African country, causing tourism to drastically decline.

It’s true that certain regions of Egypt, like the North Sinai, aren’t safe to travel in, but there are dangerous areas in every country. That said, I finally pushed aside my concerns and went to Cairo, Giza & Memphis and had the perfect dream vacation. Single female traveling alone will elicit unwanted attention, so I hired a tour company to help eliminate any issues and I’m happy I did.

Giza
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Travellers Egypt arranged my entire trip to Cairo, Giza & Memphis from flights to ground transportation, hotel and private tours. In addition, a representative from the company was with me at all times, so I didn’t worry about anything and I was shielded from the harassment that solo women tourists can be subjected to.

I documented my experience so others can see how wonderful, safe and fun Egypt is and to help other travelers plan their upcoming trips. I was able to see everything I wanted in Cairo, Giza & Memphis in just three full days, so it’s possible to see and do a lot if you’re prepared and do your research on where to go. It also helps to have a guide and driver because you will save time by not taking public transportation.

Egypt is a magical place and I hope you get to visit one day.

September 5, 2018 admin Leave a comment

JAY-Z to Present City of Hope Honor to Jon Platt

JAY-Z TO PRESENT CITY OF HOPE HONOR TO WARNER/CHAPPELL’S JON PLATT

Jon Platt, Chairman and CEO of Warner/Chappell Music, today announced that Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter will be joining him in L.A. for the Oct. 11 City of Hope gala supporting the acclaimed nonprofit clinical research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. The visionary music mogul and twenty-one-time Grammy Award-winning rapper, producer, and Warner/Chappell songwriter will present the prestigious Spirit of Life® award to Platt. It was recently announced that Pharrell Williams will host the star-studded event on October 11th.

Platt said, “It’s no secret that I don’t like being the center of attention, that’s for the songwriters, but when I accept the Spirit of Life award this fall, I can’t think of anyone else I’d rather have presenting it. Jay is unquestionably one of the most giving and genuine people I know, not to mention one of the greatest songwriters on the planet. I’m lucky to call him my brother. October 11 is going to be a really special, unforgettable night.”

JAY-Z will have just returned from the On the Run II Tour with Beyoncé, which began just after The Carters surprise-dropped their first joint album, Everything is Love. With the record for most Billboard No.1 albums by a solo artist, including last year’s 4:44, JAY-Z boasts more than 100 million album sales worldwide. Last year he was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, an award which Platt accepted on JAY-Z’s behalf. This past weekend, JAY-Z held his annual Made in America music festival in Philadelphia, featuring top hip-hop artists like Kendrick Lamar, Nicki Minaj, Meek Mill, and Post Malone.

Each year City of Hope recognizes a philanthropic leader whose work has fundamentally impacted music, film or entertainment. The coveted Spirit of Life® award is its highest honor, having been given to such noted figures as Mo Ostin, Clive Davis, Quincy Jones, Frances W. Preston, Shelli and Irving Azoff, Edgar Bronfman Jr., Doug Morris, and Sir Lucian Grainge.

For more information about donating to City of Hope and purchasing tickets to the upcoming gala dinner, please visit CityofHope.org/mfei-spirit.

BEYONCÉ/ CITY OF HOPE/ GIVE BACK/ INSPIRE /JAY-Z /JON PLATT/ MAKE A DIFFERENCE/PHARRELL /PHARRELL WILLIAMS

September 4, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Air Canada, WestJet and JetBlue Raise Baggage Fees

Airlines Air Canada, WestJet and JetBlue raise their baggage fees in the same week.

As if flying wasn’t already expensive enough, traveling is now going to cost a bit more depending on your airline carrier. On Monday JetBlue revealed their new baggage fees for checked bags. Customers who booked tickets before August 27th, 2018 paid $25 for the first checked bag that weighed 50 pounds or less, $35 for the second bag and $100 for the third and each additional bag. Anyone who booked after that date will now pay $30 for the first bag, $40 for the second and $150 for the third and each additional bag. The low-cost airline is now the first U.S. major carrier to increase their baggage fess to $30.

Photo courtesy of JetBlue

However, that’s not all JetBlue is price gouging for. In addition to the high new baggage fees, the airline has also increased the cost of their change fee from $150 to $200.

But there’s some good news for JetBlue passengers who don’t fly economy. They won’t be paying the additional cost in those high baggage fees. The airline’s “Blue Plus” fares include the price of the first checked back and its premium “Blue Flex” fares waive the fees for the first two pieces of checked luggage.

Now Canadian carriers Air Canada and WestJet have bumped up their baggages fess as well. Economy passengers will shell out $30 for the first checked bag, $50 for the second, but the price for the third and fourth bag is $100.

The steep hike in baggage fees comes on the heels of rising jet fuel prices that cut into the profit margins of the busy summer season, when Executives see this as a way to make up costs.

It’s unclear what other major American airlines like Delta, United and American Airlines will do with their baggage fess, but for now, if you want to get around paying baggage fees, SouthWest still allows two free checked bags.

AIR CANADA/ AIR TRAVEL/ AIRLINES/ BAGGAGE FEES/ BUDGET TRAVEL/ FLYING /GLOBETROTTER/HEATHER NEWGEN/ HOLIDAY/ JETBLUE/ JETSETTER/ PASSENGER/ PASSENGERS /TRAVEL/TRAVELS/ VACATION/ WESTJET

August 30, 2018 admin Leave a comment

Israel Travel Guide-How to See Israel in Seven Days

How to See Israel in Seven Days–Suggested Itinerary and extensive Israel Travel Guide

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

Israel Travel Guide: With its religious and historical significance, beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine and fun nightlife, Israel has been a popular tourist destination for quite some time. It’s not only the perfect place for those seeking a meaningful spiritual journey, but for anyone who wants to enjoy Israeli culture, dynamic landscape and an unforgettable adventure. There’s so much to see and do in Israel, but it’s possible to experience a lot of the country in just seven days. Here’s the itinerary I did on my last trip. I booked all my tours and airport transfers through Erez Yarkon Travel.

Note: For this Israel travel guide you will either need to rent a car, which I’ve done before, but Israelis are crazy drivers so beware, or take tours to do everything I did on this trip. Erez Yarkon Travel can provide a driver. I’ve used their services three times now and loved every trip.

Day 1 Tel Aviv

Israel Travel Guide: Chances are you will fly into Ben Gurion Airport, which is about 12 miles outside of Tel Aviv. Most stay in the area for the first day or so because Tel Aviv is a great city to explore with its amazing beaches, restaurants and a lively night scene. Spend at least one night here. You can also check out Jaffa (also known as Jafo), which is just outside Tel Aviv. This is where it’s believed the Biblical story Jonah and the Whale took place.

Jaffa
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Must See Places in Tel Aviv:

Israel Travel Guide: Carmel Market, Yarkon Park, the beach, Yemenite Quarter,Neve Tzedek Quarter, Beit Hatefutsoth (the Diaspora Museum; also known as the Museum of the Jewish People), Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Sarona Market.

Beach in Tel Aviv, Israel Photo by: Heather Newgen

Carmel Market in Tel Aviv, Israel Photo by: Heather Newgen

Carmel Market in Tel Aviv, Israel
Photo by: Heather Newgen

**Must See Places in Jaffa:**

Israel Travel Guide: Jaffa flea market (which I loved much more than the Carmel Market), Old City Jaffa (there’s incredible views of the beach and Tel Aviv), the port where you can enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many great restaurants and watch the sunset.

Port in Jaffa–Israel
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Port in Jaffa–Israel Photo by: Heather NewgenDay 2 Bethlehem

Israel travel Guide: Drive from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem (which is about an hour drive). From there, I went to Bethlehem (a 15 minute drive from Jerusalem) and it’s a must for anyone visiting Israel. It’s actually Palestinian territory, therefore Israelis are not welcome to cross the checkpoint. Erez Yarkon Travel arranged for a Palestinian driver and guide to take me and made sure I was well taken care of. If you go on your own you can find Palestinian taxis near the Damascus Gate in Jerusalem, but I suggest you have a guide so you make the most of your time there. Plus a guide can give you all the historical and religious details of the area.

**Must See Places in Bethlehem:**

Israel Travel Guide: The Walled Off Hotel (Graffiti artist Banksy owns it and you can buy his work at the hotel). Church of the Nativity (where Jesus was born), The Chapel of the Milk Grotto (where Mary nursed Jesus), Mar Saba Monastery, Shepherd Fields and Aida Refugee Camp

The Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem Photo by: Heather Newgen

Inside The Walled Off Hotel
Photo by: Heather Newgen

The view from the lobby of The Walled Off Hotel
Photo by: Heather Newgen

This star marks where it’s believed baby Jesus was born in the Church of the Nativity–Bethlehem
Photo by: Heather Newgen

The Milk Grotto in Bethlehem
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Aida Refugee Camp in Bethlehem
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Aida Refugee Camp in Bethlehem Photo by: Heather NewgenIsrael Travel Guide: The Walled Off Hotel can arrange a tour for you to the Aida Refugee Camp and it’s about two hours long. You will have a guide who walks you over to the camp and from there someone else shows you how people in Aida live. It’s emotional and upsetting so be prepared.

**Israel Travel Guide Tips:** The best falafel stand is in Manager Square, which is where the Church of the Nativity is. It’s the only one, so you can’t miss it. It’s flavorful and cheap so be sure to stop by.

Falafel stand in Manger Square Photo by: Heather Newgen

Falafel stand in Manger Square
Photo by: Heather Newgen

Israel Travel Guide: For the most stunning view of the city go to the rooftop of the Blessings Gift Shop and Olive Wood Factory.

View of Bethlehem from Blessings Gift Shop and Olive Wood Factory Photo by: Heather Newgen

Israel Travel Guide: You can graffiti on the wall that separates Israel and Palestine. When you’re at The Walled Off, go next door to Wall-Mart and they will set it up for you.

Heather Newgen at The Walled Off Hotel spray painting on the wall that separates Israel and Palestine

August 30, 2018 admin 1 Comment

Volunteering in Jerusalem at Yad Ezra V’Shulamit

Volunteering in Jerusalem!

By: Heather Newgen | Twitter: @hnvoluntourist

As someone who is an ambitious traveler and packs my day full of activities on holiday I know how the thought of volunteering can sound. Sure, it’s a noble thing to do, but it’s hard to squeeze it in a busy schedule.

Well here’s a project you can do in just an hour. Yes, in just 60 minutes you can actually help make a small difference by volunteering in Jerusalem at the Yad Ezra V’Shulamit food bank.

While Israel is an amazing destination to spend your vacation, 11% of the population live below the poverty line. Many rely on the the Yad Ezra V’Shulamit food bank for kosher healthy meals and the food bank relies on volunteers for help.

Jerusalem
Photo by: Heather Newgen

I know there’s so much to see and do in Israel and you should absolutely be out enjoying the region, but I spent just an hour volunteering in Jerusalem and felt like I really helped out the food bank with projects they wouldn’t be able to get done without volunteers.

As you see in the vlog, the representative from Yad Ezra V’Shulamit explains how they don’t have the budget to hire employees to do the jobs that volunteers do. So you’re truly making a small difference by volunteering in Jerusalem for just a short time.

I set up my volunteer project through Erez Yarkon Travel, who is the most popular travel agent in Israel. He can arrange incredible tours, dinners, excursions, drivers and trips to Egypt and Jordan. However, he will also set up responsible volunteering opportunities for you as well.

Please check out the vlog and consider volunteering in Jerusalem and at Yad Ezra V’Shulamit, or anywhere in the area while you’re traveling.

Producer/Reporter: Heather Newgen

Story Supervisor: Debbie Appel

Videographer: Carolyn Eastman

August 30, 2018 admin Leave a comment

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