Jumat, 28 Februari 2014

Another family says good

As Chicago's City Council gears up to decide whether or not to ban the sale of puppy mill dogs, kitten mill cats and commercially bred rabbits in pet stores, they should read Lucy's story. Lucy is another sick puppy that was sold at a Chicago area pet store and died before leaving puppyhood. She's left her family broken hearted, in debt and loaded with questions.


Christa Curran's story started when her family started to search for a second dog to add to the family last summer. They had worked with a local breeder in the past and expanded their search to shelters, rescues, ads and then pet stores. They were looking for a dog that would fit in with their blended family including an 18 month old.


'We had looked for awhile and I was always leery of pet stores, deep down I know they are connected to puppy mills,' says Curran. 'My mother-in-law has trained police dogs and was active with the AKC, she warned me too about pet stores and the AKC papers. But, we met this great Bull-Mastiff puppy and she was so good with my kids, especially the baby.'


The family went back to the Naperville Petland three times to see the pet store puppy before finally deciding to make a purchase. They were guaranteed that the dog was a pure breed that came with AKC papers from a good breeder. Curran negotiated the price down, applied for credit to purchase the dog and took her to their home near DeKalb. They named the dog Lucy.


Lucy and Giardia

Included in sale of the puppy was a free veterinary visit to Petland's preferred vets in either Glen Ellyn or Yorkville. It was at this first vet appointment that the Currans found out that Lucy had Giardia, an intestinal parasite. They paid for medication and brought her home.


'We took her to our own vet in DeKalb because she never really quite shook it. She could not make it through the night without pooping in her crate,' adds Curran. 'She tested positive for Giardia again. She kept eating and eating and the vet said the food was pretty much going right through her and she wasn't digesting properly.'


It was her vet that also questioned whether or not Lucy was as advertised - a pure breed Bull-Mastiff. Her vet thought she was mixed with boxer or pit bull. Curran says that when she reached out to Petland, they said their numbers and information claimed the dog was as claimed that she'd need to take the matter up with the AKC (American Kennel Club).


Lucy continued to battle Giardia and this week took a turn for the worse. She got very thin and by Thursday morning the family had reached out to Petland, who sent her to their vet in Yorkville again.


'Lucy was so weak, I carried her to the car and they had to carry her into the vet,' she told me. 'Petland was claiming she wasn't their responsibility any longer that it wasn't a warranty issue. The vet agreed to an X-Ray and we found out that she had apparently eaten something. She was so sick and so weak, the vet doubted she would make it through the surgery.'


'When they brought her into the room to say good-bye, she was so sick and worn out she didn't even acknowledge us,' says Curran. 'She'd not eaten anything but food until recently. Our vet said that because her body wasn't getting proper nourishment due to the Giardia that he felt was chronic, she was trying to eat what she could to make up for what she was missing.'


Questions remains

Curran had the vet run a DNA test on the dog (results are not back yet). The family is still making payments on the dog, has veterinary bills from Lucy's chronic condition and they are now wondering -


Was their dog the breed advertised and promised on the AKC papers? How many other dogs Petland is selling with chronic illnesses like Giardia?

'I've learned my lesson and would never purchase a dog from a pet store again,' says Curran. 'We would like a refund or compensation from the store for veterinary care and other costs from losing Lucy.'


Chicago's proposed ordinance

On Wednesday, Chicago's City Council votes on the Companion Animal Protection Ordinance. The ordinance is sponsored by Chicago City Clerk Susana Mendoza and spearheaded by the advocacy group The Puppy Mill Project. The ordinance will accomplish a couple of things - ban the sale of commercially bred cats and dogs (from puppy mills and kitten mills) and protect consumers from potential fraud through the sale of these pets.


Like Curran, many consumers are told by pet store employees when they purchase dogs that they come from good breeders and not puppy mills. Many people also are taken in by the AKC papers, which prove nothing about how good a dog's lineage may be. As the ordinance moves closer to a vote, much of that same propaganda is being pushed by groups fighting against the pet store ordinance.


Another great aspect of the ordinance is that pet stores will be required to work with animal control, rescues or humane societies to adopt out cats and dogs instead, saving thousands of pets lives in our community.


How you can help

If you'd like to support the ban on the sale of puppy mill dogs in Chicago pet stores, you can support the ordinance in two ways ( story is here) -


Learn more

If you'd like to read more about some of the pets sold at Petland and other pet stores -


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Watch Pretty Little Liars Season 4 Episode 21 Live Stream: 'She Come Undone ...

Tonight, 'Pretty Little Liars' season 4 episode 21 will air on ABC Family, and fans can watch the live stream online.



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In tonight's episode, 'Aria begins to fall apart after learning of Ezra's betrayal, and she doesn't know whom to trust. Meanwhile, Spencer tries to show Toby and her family that she can fight her addiction without going to rehab; and Paige gets fed up with Emily's secrets.'


WATCH HERE

For ABC Family, there is a live stream which can be accessed here, here or here (depending on your region, one may be accessible over the other), and through that, fans can watch the 'Pretty Little Liars' season 4 episode 21 live stream online.


There are a lot of fake channels solely for the purpose of luring viewers with ads, but here is how you can avoid any potential hiccups with pop-ups and ads.


--Do not download anything that is suggested.


--For every ad, there is an 'X' button. It is typically in a corner or out of the way so it is hard to see. Sometimes ads try to fool you by giving you a fake 'X' graphic which leads you to an ad. Do not be discouraged when this happens, the real 'X' button is there somewhere.


--Multiple ads will pop and it takes a little bit to clear out each and every ad. Even then, pop-ups will occur as you clear the ads. Do not listen to any of these ads or pop-ups and clear them right away.


--This 'Pretty Little Liars' season 4 episode 21 live stream will have recurring ads that pop up every once in a while. If this is the only way you can view 'Pretty Little Liars' season 4 episode 21, do not be deterred and the live stream will work once the ads disappear.


Be sure to catch 'Pretty Little Liars' tonight on ABC Family at 8:00pm EST!


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Spring Must

If you're like us, you've noticed that our favourite curvy-friendly retailers are releasing their spring lookbooks. (Yay!)


We're enamored by Penningtons' floral fixation and colour palette of cobalt blues and citrus tones while Forever 21's newly launched swimwear pieces have us tickled by the pretty pastels and warm lavenders.


Monif C's influence of Caribbean culture is infused in the neons and prints in her dresses but it's hard not to fall for the classic white sweetheart jumpsuit with mesh shoulders.


Across the pond, Asos has embodied the biggest trends of the season with floral motifs, skin-baring crocheted hems, '90s spaghetti straps and the kimono in varying tropical flora.


Here's a carefully selected list of spring must-haves to get you ready for the warmer season.Curvy Girl Style: Mixing High-End With Affordable Fashion


Puppies Could Find Forever Homes


Melissa Duran


Melissa Duran has been calling Las Vegas home since 2006, when she...


(Las Vegas, NV)-After more than one month with the Animal Foundation, the 27 puppies who were rescued from a pet store fire could soon be available for adoption.


The puppies were initially up for sale at the Prince and Princess Pet Boutique on South Rainbow. According to arrest reports, owner Gloria Lee was seen on surveillance video opening the store's back door for alleged accomplice Kirk Bills. Video allegedly shows Bills spraying the contents from a gasoline can all over the store, including on the kennels that housed the puppies. The store is then set on fire. Thanks to a successful sprinkler system and firefighters, all 27 puppies inside the store survived. They were immediately handed over to animal control where they have been under a legal hold.


However, on Thursday, the District Attorney Steve Wolfson officially gave notice to owner Gloria Lee that the legal hold on the puppies could be terminated, opening the doors for possible adoption. The notice says the owners of the store have 72 hours to either surrender their rights to the animals or attempt to reclaim possession of them. The letter addressed to Gloria Lee and managing member Donald Thompson. Lee is currently detained at the Clark County Detention Center. If Lee does not try to reclaim ownership, the dogs will be handed over the the Animal Foundation, which can then find new homes for the dogs.


'I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff at the Animal Foundation for the wonderful care they have provided these puppies during the past month -including giving every puppy the various vaccinations they need to stay healthy,' District Attorney Steve Wolfson said. 'While I know the puppies are safe and well-cared for at the shelter, I think we can all agree that the shelter is not an ideal long-term home for them.'


So far, nobody has made an ownership claim for the animals. KXNT has contacted Lee's defense attorney for comment, but our message has not been returned.


The Animal Foundation says they will also not comment on the issue until the dogs are rightfully under their ownership. However, a media spokesperson tells KXNT the public interest in these 27 animals is extremely high.


On Friday, alleged co-conspirator Kirk Bills was in court on this case. He faces 31 counts including arson, conspiracy, burglary and multiple counts of attempted animal cruelty. His bail has been set at $310,000.


ABC Family's Marlee Matlin, Jake T. Austin Set for Live Twitter Chat, 3/3

Related:


'Switched at Birth' guest star Marlee Matlin (Melody Bledsoe) and 'The Fosters' star Jake T. Austin (Jesus Foster) will tweet live with fans during the East Coast broadcasts of their drama series on ABC Family Monday, March 3rd.Marlee Matlin of 'Switched at Birth' will chat live with fans via her handle @MarleeMatlin during the East Coast feed of the show on Monday, March 3rd, 8:00PM - 9:00PM ET/5:00PM - 6:00PM PT. Fans can tweet their questions directly to Marlee and include the hashtag #SwitchedAtBirthChat in their messages. In the dance-themed episode titled 'Dance Me to the End of Love,' Daphne dances with the idea of pre-med studies and asks for more responsibility at the free clinic, but is it too much too soon? Worried that his hearing girlfriend will lose interest, Travis hesitantly invites her to a school formal, even though he doesn't know how to dance. Bay is left spinning when her teacher demands more of her art, despite her injury. Meanwhile, John jumps at the chance to win Kathryn over.'The Fosters' star Jake T. Austin will live tweet with fans during the East Coast feed of the series, airing on Monday, March 3rd, 9:00PM - 10:00PM ET/6:00PM - 7:00PM PT. Fans can tweet directly to Jake at @JakeTAustin and include the hashtag #TheFostersChat in their tweets to ask their questions. In the all-new episode titled 'Escapes and Reversals,' Jesus feels the pressure to make a difficult choice and his inability to focus poses a challenge during an important wrestling match. Callie suspects Brandon has gotten himself into a bad situation and struggles with the decision to protect him at the cost of another friend's reputation. Stef and Lena reveal a caveat to Callie and Jude's adoption and the siblings must decide whether they want to face their past or move on with their new lives. Mariana gets an unsettling glimpse into her friend Zac's home life when his mom shows up.Summary:8:00PM ET/5:00PM PT - Marlee Matlin of 'Switched at Birth' - @MarleeMatlin #SwitchedAtBirthChat9:00PM ET/6:00PM PT - Jake T. Austin of 'The Fosters' - @ JakeTAustin #TheFostersChat'Switched at Birth' is executive-produced by Lizzy Weiss ('Blue Crush'), Paul Stupin ('Make It or Break It'), and John Ziffren ('Melissa & Joey,' 'Make It or Break It'). The series stars Katie Leclerc as Daphne Vasquez; Vanessa Marano ('Gilmore Girls') as Bay Kennish; Constance Marie ('George Lopez') as Regina Vasquez; D.W. Moffett ('Friday Night Lights') as John Kennish; Lea Thompson ('Back to the Future,' 'Caroline in the City') as Kathryn Kennish; Lucas Grabeel ('High School Musical') as Toby Kennish; Sean Berdy as Emmett Bledsoe; and Gilles Marini ('Brothers and Sisters') as Angelo Sorrento with guest star Marlee Matlin ('The West Wing').Winner of 2013's Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Breakout Show, 'The Fosters' is executive-produced by Jennifer Lopez, ('American Idol,' 'What to Expect When You're Expecting,' 'The Back-Up Plan') and created by Bradley Bredeweg and Peter Paige ('Queer As Folk'), who also serve as executive producers and writers, along with Joanna Johnson ('Make it or Break it'). 'The Fosters' stars Teri Polo ('Meet the Parents') as Stef Foster, Sherri Saum ('In Treatment') as Lena Adams Foster, Jake T. Austin ('Wizards of Waverly Place') as Jesus Foster, Hayden Byerly ('Parenthood') as Jude Jacob, David Lambert ('Aaron Stone') as Brandon Foster, Maia Mitchell ('Teen Beach Movie') as Callie Jacob, Danny Nucci ('Titanic') as Mike Foster and Cierra Ramirez ('The Secret Life of the American Teenager') as Mariana Foster. Greg Gugliotta, Elaine Goldsmith Thomas, Benny Medina, and John Ziffren also serve as executive producers. The series is produced by Nuyorican Productions, Inc., and Prodco, Inc. Part of the Disney/ABC Television Group, ABC Family is distributed in over 97 million homes. ABC Family features programming reflecting today's families, entertaining and connecting with adults through relatable programming about today's relationships - told with a mix of diversity, passion, humor and heart. ABC Family's programming is a combination of network-defining original series and original movies, quality acquired series and blockbuster theatricals. For 2014, ABC Family has launched the 'WATCH ABC Family' authenticated service which allows viewers with participating TV subscription services access to 24/7 live viewing of the network, as well as continued on demand access to such popular series at home and on the go via a wide array of devices. ABC Family is also the destination for annual Holiday events with '13 Nights of Halloween' and '25 Days of Christmas.' ABC Family. A New Kind of Family.Press materials are available at http://ift.tt/1pFgQ43.'Switched at Birth'ABC Family Media Relations: Robin Finn, (818) 955-4728, robin.e.finn@disney.comOfficial ABC Family 'Switched at Birth' website: http://ift.tt/1hJOXCs: http://ift.tt/1pFgQ46: http://ift.tt/1pFgQ48 @ABCFsab #SwitchedatBirth Tumblr: http://ift.tt/1hJOVKB: http://ift.tt/1hJOVKF: http://ift.tt/1pFgSc2: http://ift.tt/1hJOVKJ'The Fosters'ABC Family Media Relations: Robin Finn, (818) 955-4728, robin.e.finn@disney.comKlear PR: Laura Gallagher, (818) 729-0555, laura@klearpr.comOfficial ABC Family 'The Fosters' website: http://ift.tt/1pFgSc4: http://ift.tt/1hJOXSY: http://ift.tt/1pFgQku @TheFostersABCF #TheFostersTumblr: TheFosters-onabcfamily.tumblr.comPintrest: http://ift.tt/1pFgQkz: http://ift.tt/1pFgSc8: http://ift.tt/1hJOY9u


SWITCHED AT BIRTH, THE FOSTERS, ABC Family

Paris Fashion Week 2014: At Dior, sport meets couture


PARIS -- Raf Simons showed his most dynamic and commercial Dior collection yet on Friday at Paris Fashion Week, turning the focus away from the fantasy world of the red carpet, which the brand has virtually dominated in recent years, and toward the real world.


OK, so maybe that incredible pink Astrakhan coat doesn't necessarily qualify as work attire, but still, overall, there was a sense that wearability and comfort were chief concerns in this collection.


City lights were the inspiration according to the show notes, but it was more about the pace of the city. These clothes were made for speed, a sentiment underscored by the pace of the models, who walked the runway in quick succession, sometimes two at a clip, wearing sneaker-stilettos that looked like they could handle the mean streets.


There was an undercurrent of athleticism throughout the collection, from the bright color palette, to the sporty lacing details corseting coats and mini-dresses, to the quilted nylon used to create high-low gowns (how great would it be if we saw one of those at the Oscars?).


Another takeaway? Tailoring. Simons put the world on notice that in addition to unforgettable evening looks, Dior is also a destination for a great cashmere camel coat, and a superb double-breasted pinstripe wool jacket with a decorative pleated flounce, worn over a white shirt dress.


In addition to the stiletto sneakers, Simons offered colorful tote bags and clever-looking ruffle-edged crepe scarves to throw over a jacket for a dash of color.


When it came to cocktail hour, the most standout looks were hybrid fit 'n' flare silhouettes layered over mini-dresses, with a smattering of crystals nestled in the pleats. They came in dazzling color combinations, flame orange with royal blue, grass green with powder blue, and sunshine yellow with baby pink.


Embroidered mesh gowns layered over T-shirts or long jersey tanks also looked comfortable and modern.


Now that Dior has got the buzz going (I mean really, is there an A-list celebrity left that Simons hasn't dressed?), this collection should open the brand up to the rest of the world. And that's a powerful proposition indeed.


ALSO: At Dries Van Noten, an Op Art rave Alexander Wang finds his groove at Balenciaga Dazzling Paris exhibit explores Dries Van Noten's design inspiration booth.moore@latimes.com

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Paris Fashion Week 2014: Balmain's urban safari

Paris Fashion Week Fall-Winter 2014



PARIS -- At the Balmain show Thursday at Paris Fashion Week, designer Oliver Rousteing sent out an army's worth of cargo jackets and pants, pleated leather gladiator miniskirts with woven belts, and curve-hugging mini dresses covered in elaborate silk braid or animal prints framed by caged leather, or worked with chains or tubular gold beads.



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Paris Fashion Week: A new attitude at Lanvin

Paris Fashion Week Fall-Winter 2014



PARIS -- Rihanna, Emma Roberts, Catherine Deneuve and many more came out Thursday night for designer Alber Elbaz's dark and moody fall-winter 2014 Lanvin show.


This year marks the 125th anniversary of the house of Lanvin (and nearly 10 years for Elbaz at the label.) And while the collection hinted at the past, it also pushed forward into edgy, new territory with raw-edged tweeds, chain-handled bags and flat shoes that had a punky street vibe.


The new attitude was in line with Rihanna's bad-ass Lanvin ensemble for the evening: gray knit jogging pants worn with a peplum jacket, fox fur scarf, lace-up brogue shoes and a camel hat.


The show opened with a voluminous, ruffled, raw edge tweed coat, worn with a feather-topped majorette hat that brought to mind Jeanne Lanvin's roots in millinery.


The message? The beat will go on for the brand into the next century.


Ruffled, raw edge tweed jackets and skirts gave way to a sleek-looking, strapless black leather knife pleat dress with industrial-looking brass snaps down the side. There were lots of soft furs -- oversized, enveloping pelts layered over flannel suits.


Square-neck cocktail dresses were framed in crystals, or swinging with colorful panels of hedonistic fringe, and worn with geometric choker necklaces. Long, sweeping skirts and soft blouses topped with wide brimmed hats trimmed in feathers cast a darkly romantic, Edwardian-era spell.


The result was a step away from the glam, girlish candy-wrapped groove Elbaz channeled in the spring collection, into a bold new future -- less polite and ladylike, and more mysterious and roughed up. It was a courageous move.


ALSO:


Paris Fashion Week: At Damir Doma, polished grunge Dazzling Paris exhibit explores Dries Van Noten's design inspiration Paris Fashion Week 2014: Rick Owens lets loose the fashion brawlers

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Los Angeles Times welcomes civil dialogue about our stories; you must register with the site to participate. We filter comments for language and adherence to our Terms of Service, but not for factual accuracy. By commenting, you agree to these legal terms. Please flag inappropriate comments.


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Spring Fashion: A Garden Party


Photo by Christina Uticone


The three 'Fs' of fashion this spring are, in order: Femme, flirty, florals. Not limited to the runway, pastel hues and the florals that inspire them have infused everything from nail polish to cosmetics to perfume this season. Look no further than the Burberry Autumn/Winter 2014 runway--if you can afford a $10,000, hand-painted deerskin or sheepskin trench coat, that is. No worries--those of us on a budget can opt for hand-painted organdy for a mere $3,995.

If you can't scare up the four grand you need to land that Burberry trench you love, try H&M's Jacquard Weave take on a trench; collarless, with trumpet sleeves, for just $129. If you love vintage, hunt Etsy for something romantic, like this green floral trench ($50) from peppermintpink, that looks like something you'd steal from your great-aunt's closet when everyone else is at her wake.


If you're afraid of commitment, apply femme spring fashion sparingly, through makeup and accessories. Several collections with floral inspiration are out at the moment. Chanel's Jardin de Camélias Collection is now available exclusively online. The camellia is, famously, Mademoiselle's favorite flower, and the colors in the collection are youthful, easy-to-wear pastels.


Also keep an eye out for Aerin Beauty's ten new shades in her Rose Balm Lipstick line. 'Aerin' refers to Aerin Lauder--yes, that Lauder--whose eponymous line of beauty products is gaining praise for high-quality products that continue the family tradition. Rose Balm Lipsticks are, according to the company, infused with an extract from over 350 rose petals. They aren't all named after flowers, but lilacs, geraniums, and poppies pop up among the ten new shades being introduced.



Burberry 'The Petal' Clutch


If a little flower power goes a long way, consider a small accessory to maximize spending power on a trendy piece you may not always love. (Florals can grow on you, and then haunt you, like no other pattern. Gorgeous one day, grandma's bedspread the next.) While $1500 might seem like a lot to spend on a leather pastel clutch with leather petals, compared to their trench coats Burberry is offering us a real steal on 'the new runway bag,' The Petal. http://ift.tt/1hqblCq If that's still a little rich for your blood, Zappos has floral clutch options from Vera Bradley, Alexander McQueen ($540, but still!), and Dooney & Bourke, among others.

And then there are the perennial favorites; those flowers that never go out of style, and survive the annual whim of the runway. Your Rosebud Salves, and your Chanel perfumes (Mademoiselle for the modern girl, No. 5 for those who like their abstract flowers to have a few thorns), and your rosewater facial mists and glycerin soaps.


For more info on Spring 2014 florals, check out Into the Gloss's Florals You Want to Wear, Now, and Vogue's Fashion Guide for Spring 2014.


VIDEO: CTV


On this episode of CTV news, Brynn Carman finds out more information about bike vs. car accidents in Fort Collins. Plus, Katie Spencer heads over to Choice Organics, the first hopeful recreational pot store in Fort Collins. And Lena Howland gets an inside look at the spring fashion show.


The Oscars® to stream live on WATCH ABC

Posted Friday, February 28, 2014-5:47 am


( PR NewsChannel) / February 28, 2014 / HOLLYWOOD, Calif.



For the first time ever, The Oscars preshow and full awards telecast will stream live for verified WATCH ABC viewers online and on mobile devices. The WATCH ABC app allows viewers with participating TV subscription services access to 24/7 live viewing of the network, as well as next day on demand access to most series, making it possible for fans to watch the entire The Oscars experience - including 'Jimmy Kimmel Live: After the Oscars' - in more places and at more times than ever before.


Live streaming is currently available through Comcast, Cablevision, Cox Communications, Charter Communications, Midcontinent Communications, Verizon FiOS, Google Fiber and AT&T U-verse in ABC's eight Owned Station markets - New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Houston, Raleigh-Durham and Fresno. Once aired, the full Oscars telecast and pre-show will be available on demand via WATCH ABC for verified viewers for three days, through Wednesday, March 5. WATCH ABC can be accessed from Oscar.com, ABC.com, WATCHABC.com or via the WATCH ABC app, which is free on select Android devices and iOS and can be downloaded at Google Play, the Amazon Appstore, and the App Store. Verified viewers then log in using their cable or satellite subscription username and password.


The Academy and Disney/ABC Television Group's Digital Media team are also unveiling the talent line up for their Emmy® Award-winning Oscar second screen experience, The Oscars Backstage, which will also be streamed this year to all viewers - regardless of whether they are verified - via WATCH ABC. Hosts and correspondents include:


*Entertainment Reporter and Film Critic Ben Lyons (Yahoo, 'Extra!,' ESPN Radio, 'E! News,' among others) and fashion retail correspondent and author Hitha Prabhakar (who has contributed to ABC World News, 'Good Morning America,' Nightline, Bravo, CNN, E! Entertainment television, among others) will co-host from the red carpet and backstage. *PEOPLE's Managing Editor Peter Castro will once again report from the fan bleachers on the red carpet. The bleachers are sponsored by Time Inc.'s PEOPLE, which invites 700 fans and PEOPLE VIP subscribers to watch and cheer nominees, presenters and film's biggest stars as part of the PEOPLE Oscar Fan Experience. *'Good Morning America' and ESPN contributing editor Chris Connelly is returning as the official greeter of the Oscars Red Carpet, which includes welcoming nominees, presenters and performers to the show.


Presented again this year by Samsung Galaxy®, The Oscars Backstage is designed to be the ultimate complement to the live telecast. All Oscar viewers who visit WATCH ABC will be able to select from three channels that will pull from more than 15 live cameras strategically placed on the Red Carpet and throughout the backstage areas of the Dolby Theatre, providing fans with insider views into the most memorable moments of the night. Popular cameras positions include the Thank You cam, Winners Walk, Audience and Press Room. Fans will also be able to access the official Oscar Buzz social feed and popular photo galleries from within the app. The Oscars Backstage experience launched in 2011 to much acclaim and has been recognized with an Emmy® for Creative Achievement in Interactive Arts and an Industry Star Mobile Excellence Award. It remains unprecedented in terms of live event second screen access.


'We're extremely proud of how much the Oscar Digital Experience has evolved,' said Albert Cheng, EVP and Chief Product Officer, Digital Media, Disney/ABC Television Group. 'This year more people than ever before will have access to the backstage streams and verified WATCH ABC viewers will be able to participate in the most interactive Oscars to date, seamlessly navigating between the pre-show, telecast and The Oscars Backstage experience on their mobile devices.'


'We're excited to once again bring viewers backstage and allow them to experience all of the action on Oscar Sunday - not just what happens on stage, but the stories that play out behind-the-scenes as well, said Josh Spector, Managing Director of Digital Media and Marketing at Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.


Additionally, video highlights from the telecast and The Oscars Backstage will be available as embeddable clips on Oscar.com almost immediately after they air at Oscar.com/blogs. Full performances of the shows musical performances, including Pharrell ('Happy'), Idina Menzel, ('Let It Go'), Karin O ('The Moon Song) and U2 ('Ordinary Love') will be featured in a dedicated 'Musical Moments' section sponsored by Pepsi that includes in-depth video and photo coverage of past music winners.


The site is also showcasing nominees 'in their own words,' a collection of official nominee questionnaires, including Bradley Cooper, Bruce Dern, Michael Fassbender, June Squibb, Sally Hawkins, among others. To add to the fun, insanely addicting quizzes from past year's awards shows are featured, including: , 'Guess Who Won Best Actress', 'Guess the Dress', 'Who Starred In?', and 'Script to Screen'. The hugely popular 'My Picks' interactive ballot is also live. Friends can view and share the ballot on Facebook, which will update in real time on Oscar Night®, ensuring that the most competitive Oscar handicappers are instantly aware of their ranking among friends.


Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2013 will be presented on Oscar® Sunday, March 2, 2014, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® and televised live on the ABC Television Network. The presentation, produced by Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.


The 9th annual 'Jimmy Kimmel Live: After the Oscars' airs Sunday, March 2 after the late local news ET/CT and at 10:00 p.m. PT on ABC. It will also be available live and on demand via the WATCH ABC app. Broadcasting from Disney's El Capitan Theater located on Hollywood Boulevard in the heart of L.A.'s star-studded Walk of Fame, the studio is just steps away from Dolby Theater, home to the 'Academy Awards.' Past guest appearances on Kimmel's post-Oscar specials have included Tom Cruise, Ben Affleck, Robert Downey Jr., Matt Damon, Ellen DeGeneres, Jessica Chastain, Jude Law, Channing Tatum, John Krasinski, Samuel L. Jackson and many more. Additionally, previous comedy bits featured include the epic trailers for 'Movie: The Movie,' which has been viewed over 24 million times on YouTube, the follow-up 'Movie: The Movie: 2V' as well as 'Toddlers and Tiaras' with Tom Hanks and Kimmel pitching show ideas to Oprah. Last year's 'Jimmy Kimmel Live: After the Oscars' marked the most-watched post-Oscar telecast in the franchise's history.


ABOUT DISNEY/ABC TELEVISION GROUP The Disney/ABC Television Group is composed of The Walt Disney Company's global entertainment and news television properties, owned television stations, and radio stations. This includes ABC Entertainment Group, ABC News, ABC Owned Television Stations Group, Disney Channels Worldwide, Radio Disney and ABC Family, as well as Disney/ABC Domestic Television and Disney Media Distribution. The Company's equity interest in Hulu and its 50% equity interest in A&E Networks and Fusion round out the Group's portfolio of media businesses.


ABOUT THE ACADEMY The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world's preeminent movie-related organization, with a membership of more than 6,000 of the most accomplished men and women working in cinema. In addition to the annual Academy Awards-in which the members vote to select the nominees and winners-the Academy presents a diverse year-round slate of public programs, exhibitions and events; provides financial support to a wide range of other movie-related organizations and endeavors; acts as a neutral advocate in the advancement of motion picture technology; and, through its Margaret Herrick Library and Academy Film Archive, collects, preserves, restores and provides access to movies and items related to their history. Through these and other activities the Academy serves students, historians, the entertainment industry and people everywhere who love movies.


Contact Information ABC Press Contact: Fonda Berosini, fonda.berosini@disney.com Karen Hobson, Karen.Hobson@disney.com


Academy Press Contact: Gail Silverman, gail.silverman@oscars.org


Kamis, 27 Februari 2014

Paris Fashion Week 2014: Rick Owens lets loose the fashion brawlers


Looks from the fall and winter 2014 Rick Owens women's runway collection presented Thursday during Paris Fashion Week. (Bertrand Guay / AFP / Getty Images / )


PARIS -- Rick Owens sounded another call for female empowerment at Paris Fashion Week with his show Thursday, channeling the aggressive team spirit from last season's runway step dancing performance into a collection of street-tough urban uniforms modeled by every woman.


The show was a performance of its own kind, with models of every age and size (shaved heads, graying locks, wrinkles and all), ready to rumble in their Rick Owens power uniforms.


Curve-disguising smock dresses, coats and all-in-one jumpsuits brought to mind sports pinnies or jerseys. Only the materials were supremely luxe--matte crocodile, felted cashmere, even fur. Abstract-looking black-and-white embroidery suggested an haute spin on schoolyard graffiti, while other details were beautifully sculptural (high funnel necks, scarf ties and oversized hoods). The cool-as-hell, stretch leather, over-the-knee sneaker boots worn with every look added to the athletic vibe.


Rather than having models walk on a raised runway, Owens had them walk among the audience, doing figure eights around benches of well-heeled fashion folk as if they were about to start something.


The same models came out multiple times in the same outfits, at a faster clip each time, as if they were intentionally trying to mess with us. They were a force to be reckoned with, all right. Owens wouldn't have it any other way.


ALSO:


At Damir Dona, polished grunge Alexander Wang finds his groove at Balenciaga Anthony Vaccarello's haute biker babes kick off Paris Fashion Week

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Scoop: BABY DADDY on ABC FAMILY

Related:Ben's shenanigans threaten Riley's new relationship on an all-new episode of 'Baby Daddy,' airing Wednesday, March 19 at 8:30pm ET/PT on ABC Family.In 'Go Brit or Go Home,' Ben is less than thrilled when Riley asks him to hang out with her new boyfriend, Philip (Christopher O'Shea), but he reluctantly agrees once Riley plays the friendship card. However, the man-date goes horribly wrong when Ben's harmless flirting with a student puts Philip's job at the college - and his visa - in jeopardy. Danny's hockey playing is criticized by a sports reporter, Logan (Courtney Parks), but that doesn't stop him from hitting on her, prompting a horrified Bonnie to embrace her inner enforcer and take matters into her own hands. Meanwhile, Tucker discovers the power of the British accent. 'Baby Daddy' stars Jean-Luc Bilodeau ('Kyle XY'), Derek Theler ('90210'), Tahj Mowry ('The Game') with Melissa Peterman ('Reba') and Chelsea Kane ('Dancing with the Stars,' 'Jonas LA'). The series is created and executive produced by Dan Berendsen ('The Nine Lives of Chloe King,' 'Sabrina, the Teenage Witch' and 'Hannah Montana: The Movie'). 'Baby Daddy' is a multi-camera comedy that shoots in front of a live studio audience in Los Angeles. Part of the Disney/ABC Television Group, ABC Family is distributed in over 97 million homes. ABC Family features programming reflecting today's families, entertaining and connecting with adults through relatable programming about today's relationships - told with a mix of diversity, passion, humor and heart. ABC Family's programming is a combination of network-defining original series and original movies, quality acquired series and blockbuster theatricals. For 2014, ABC Family has launched the 'WATCH ABC Family' authenticated service which allows viewers with participating TV subscription services access to 24/7 live viewing of the network, as well as continued on demand access to such popular series at home and on the go via a wide array of devices. ABC Family is also the destination for annual Holiday events with '13 Nights of Halloween' and '25 Days of Christmas.' ABC Family. A New Kind of Family. ABC FAMILY, Scoop, BABY DADDY


Fit for a Femme's Guide to Spring Fashion: It's All About Layers, Kittens

I don't know about you, but this winter has me wondering if I'll be able to drag my frostbitten native Californian limbs across the February finish line. Last night I foolishly looked up the length of flights from Boston to Bermuda. COME ON, PRETTY MAMA. Turns out that's not a super gay-friendly locale. So, nope.



In much happier news we are so close to March and the first official day of spring, so let's talk spring style before summer is here with its humidity and sweat and fewest articles of clothing humanly possible. ( Remember that?) Specifically, let's talk about how to layer some really fun pieces in a few different ways, and by fun I mean clothes with kittens on them.



Despite allergies, I was strictly a cat person until I met my wife. My wife's dog was deranged but loveable. After we got married, we got another deranged but loveable dog, and after we moved to New England, it was only a matter of time before I brought home an actual barn cat. Ever since then I've become one of those IDGAF cat ladies, and now I own a shameful lot of clothing featuring cats. This skirt is pretty much the epitome of IDGAF cat lady style, but it's also full and colorful and comfortable and has a pocket and is made of soft, happy cotton, so really it's many things, this skirt.



I threw on a plain Everlane Ryan tank under a Levi's denim jacket, twisted and buttoned at the bottom to give it a tied-at-the-waist look. The hat is completely optional, but it brings things together nicely with the shoes and printed skirt. Speaking of these shoes, move over Manolo, because I've had these black and white spectator pumps for years and I'm pretty sure I got them second-hand for under $20.


These ones from Chelsea Crew are vintage-inspired and very sweet, and this boot version is tomboy-friendly. If creepers are more your jam, check these out maybe.


Bonus styling tips:



For days when the gloom is upon you, or you just want to dress it up a little bit, try a simple short-sleeved sweater in black (a black turtleneck would be magic), and a vintage fur or faux-fur collar for extra warmth.



I added driving gloves to go with the suede pumps, and some sparkle in the form of earrings, a pin to close the collar, as well as a sequined raw-edge belt. Then I enjoyed a cup of heavenly white tea from a mug with little masked kittens all over it from back home. Let's move on!



Oops, wishful thinking. A little too summery, but shorts definitely can and should come out once things start to truly warm up.



Add a blazer and voila! Perfect al fresco mimosa brunch outfit.


These shorts are fantastic - they almost have the feel and heft of a nice crepe silk without the fuss, and the pastel-heavy floral embroidery on overlapping navy hits about a million spring trends all at once. Adding tights for warmth if you need it is a no-brainer, and a long cardigan in lieu of a more tailored look with the blazer would work, too.



I chose a soft tie-front tank and let the blazer tone it all down. Finish it off with a fun clutch and heels or flats, plus a few simple pieces of jewelry. You can do a million variations of this outfit all spring and summer long.


Furthermore, the tomboy version is easy with shorts like these or these, paired with button-downs, t-shirts, boyfriend blazers and brogues. You name it, it can be done. I mean, check this dude out:



Who doesn't want that outfit? Who doesn't need a cream blazer? Exactly. We all do. (God, I love Street Etiquette.)



Wide-leg denim will have to sub for the shorts for a little while longer, though. It's FINE.



Did you miss the cats? ME TOO. Look at this romper. Some people might say women past a certain age shouldn't wear rompers, let alone rompers with kittens on them, but those people can go straight to hell. It's lacy and friendly! We do what we want! And and and? Cat Fashion is totally a thing. C'mon, let's go buy some records at all those garage sales everyone's gonna have in like a month. Maybe someone will have a box full of kittens, just meowing and looking around.



Tights! Of course, and you can wear stompy black Docs or little rock 'n roll boots instead of heels. Any old denim will do - this one is a melt-y soft Theory number that's been in my closet forever - but an oversized denim shirt would work, an old chambray would work, whatever you want. It helps make things feel more casual and takes the edge off the twee (only a little bit, it IS a lace kitten after all).



If lace isn't your thing, here's another cat romper, and if you love black and white but don't do shorts, this jumpsuit is pretty wild in the best way.



Or, you know, throw a gauzy kimono-style jacket over it and get thee to the nearest music festival. Or maybe a bonfire. Mm, bonfires. So warm and toasty. Keep the fringe away from the flames, though, while you're channeling Stevie Nicks.



That's it for now! Tell me all your spring feelings and quandaries in the comments, or write to me if you'd like. Head over to Fit for a Femme where we're just gonna keep rolling with these wintry sucker punches like champs, and definitely keep an eye on A-Camp news to hear more about what all kinds of trouble we're gonna get in together come May!


Paris Fashion Week


Credit: Reuters/Stephane Mahe


1 of 40. A model is prepared backstage before the Indian designer Manish Arora Fall/Winter 2014-2015 women's ready-to-wear collection show during Paris Fashion Week February 27, 2014.


Bright colors in for spring fashion

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TAHLEQUAH - The occasional snowflake may still be floating down from the sky, but bright colors and textures are making local boutiques and stores look like spring has already arrived. Bright colors, loose-weave accessories in scarves, jackets and vests and dresses are beginning to replace winter items in display windows and on the racks. Neon and leopard prints are always on hand at Obsession Boutique, said owner Amanda Harris. Floral and tribal prints, corals, melon and mint green and sequins for bling are beginning to brighten the store on cute sundresses, skinny jeans, leggings, and jeggings, said Harris. 'Jeggings are stretchy jeans with pockets, and they are really in,' Harris said. 'Pink Pewter headbands Carrie Underwood wears have flown off the chart. I wear them myself.' New are Shamballa bracelets with Swarovski crystal bracelets in all colors and red, white and blue for the Fourth of July. Another hot new line of jewelry will feature necklaces and earrings that are beaded, tribal, colorful, big and chunky. 'All are really cute and mix and match to wear with anything,' said Harris. 'We'll have fun shorts in coral and mint, melon and cobalt blue and pastels like lilac and yellow. I always have some neons in my store; neon is big in spring and summer. And we have bow shirts and dresses with a bow on the back.' Sandals, flats and wedges are on the way for spring, she said. Oklahoma shirts - some sparkly - are in stock and arriving in March. Obsession Boutique carries sizes small to 3X. Skirts are maxi and mini with sequin and tribal prints. Accessories also include scarves in leopard, chevron and tribal prints. Workman's has lots of new spring clothing items and boots arriving in March, said owner Charles Workman. 'I'm ready for spring myself,' Workman said, expressing the feeling many in Tahlequah share. Wrangler and Cinch button-down and snap shirts are on the way, with a couple of new styles from Cruel Girl blouses and jeans, he said. 'Straw hats will be here next week. Duck Dynasty has some T-shirts; they're probably the hottest thing going for everybody,' said Workman. New styles of Tony Lama and Justin boots are on the way. 'And we stay pretty competitive. On boots, we beat everybody by about 30 percent,' said Workman. 'We sell a lot of jeans and a lot of boots; it's unreal. We sold 58 pairs of boots one Saturday.' Completer vests and jackets are arriving at S&V Fabrics, said owner Jana Moss, who saw tons of them at market in Las Vegas. 'Completer is an accent piece to complete your look; it's kind of a new term,' said Moss. 'I have them in pastel colors, white and off-white, some with sparkly sequins, a loose weave in longer lengths. They're also forgiving to cover your arms.' Tropical prints, pink, lime green, coral and bright colors are arriving at S&V Fabrics and at the top for spring, said Moss. 'We have a variety of black and white designed dresses and print combinations, with short and three-quarters length sleeves, and sleeveless that are perfect for Easter paired with the completers,' she said. Maxi, high-low and knee-length are the dress and skirt lengths at S&V, with some A-line and gourd skirts to add texture and interest to a hemline. 'Polyester and spandex make the dresses comfortable and complimentary to your figure,' said Moss. 'Scarves are always good. Infinity scarves are crochet and almost like a necklace; others are fuller. They are chevron, animal print and solid colors, some with lace accents.' New Anushka hand-painted leather purses are coming with designs, including flowers. Nepal bracelets are on sale for $5 until the end of February.


Features Bright colors in for spring fashion

The occasional snowflake may still be floating down from the sky, but bright colors and textures are making local boutiques and stores look like spring has already arrived. Bright colors, loose-weave accessories in scarves, jackets and vests and dresses are beginning to replace winter items in display windows and on the racks. Neon and leopard prints are always on hand at Obsession Boutique, said owner Amanda Harris. Floral and tribal prints, corals, melon and mint green and sequins for bling are beginning to brighten the store on cute sundresses, skinny jeans, leggings, and jeggings, said Harris.


Polar Plunge raises thousands for Special Olympics More than 110 participants from local schools and organizations took part in Saturday's Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics at Arrowhead Resort on the Illinois River. They raised a total of $15,400 for the athletes to buy uniforms and help with travel and lodging for the Oklahoma Special Olympics in May. Participating were groups from Cherokee Nation, Northeastern State University, Tahlequah Police Department, Tahlequah Public Schools, and others. Ross shares gospel in variety of settings

Pastor Sean Ross uses a variety of classes to teach the word of God to his congregation, whether at church, a nursing home or elsewhere. 'Our church is small and precious. We enjoy singing the old hymns, as well as new praise. We are looking to grow in the Lord and in his favor,' Ross said.


Tinsley's family an inspiration for teaching

Lessons from life on the farm are teaching tools for Greenwood's newest Teacher of the Year. Second-grade teacher Kym Tinsley's family is important. In the summer, she works on Canyon Ridge Farm, owned by her parents. 'I use the experiences from the farm life in my classroom on a daily basis, through writing, reading, and math,' she said. She has a happy, colorful and friendly classroom. She recently greeted two children at the classroom door with a smile. As she interacted with them, asking questions about a story, they searched for clues and find answers. Tinsley rewarded each girl with a compliment, based on their answers and asked more questions. The girls searched for answers once more. For Tinsley, children are definitely the best part of teaching,


Cherokee Nation awards $3.4 million to schools

The Cherokee Nation is helping dozens of northeast Oklahoma school districts fill gaps in education funding. On Friday, checks totaling $3.4 million were distributed to 91 school districts at the Cherokee Nation's Public School Appreciation Day, held at Sequoyah High School.


Brainstorming for arts festival begins

Hot summer days may seem far away as snow is still melting, but planning for an annual arts event set for the second weekend in June began last week. Arts on the Avenue, the only fine arts festival in Tahlequah, features performing and visual art and artists. It will be held June 13-14, downtown at the Cherokee Square. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase art from top regional traditional native art and non-native artists, create art, listen to all genres of music, chat with artists and authors and musicians and taste culinary arts. The event is a juried art show and sale, and artists have to submit photos of their creations. Visual art includes hand-crafted jewelry, photography, basket weaving, pottery, stone and wood sculpture, paintings, calligraphy and graphic design prints.


More Features Headlines

Stars at Paris Fashion Week: Rihanna, Kanye West, Miranda Kerr, Jessica Alba ...


Julien Hekimian/Getty Images


Bonjour! It's official: Paris Fashion Week is underway and we're on the last leg of Fashion Week.


Some of the most talked-about shows every season happen during Paris Fashion Week, and so of course the stars come in droves to see all the fashion and take in a runway show or two.


So what's happened so far? Let's start with Gisele Bündchen who just had her five-year wedding anniversary with . The supermodel made her grand return to the runway by walking in Alexander Wang's Balenciaga show Thursday.


NEWS: Did Gisele celebrate her 5th wedding anniversary without Tom Brady?

Catwalking/Getty Images


She looked fabulous in a gray sweater with an embellished, studded collar and silk pants. Gisele rarely walks in fashion shows anymore, so it's a big deal for a designer to have her walk in their show. Score one for Alexander Wang!


The stars also stepped out in style for the H&M show, bringing Miranda Kerr, Jessica Alba, Solange Knowles and supermodel Jourdan Dunn. The four ladies cozied up to one another and shared a front row bench at the H&M show, taking in the runway looks together.


NEWS: Alexander Wang on his new creative director role at Balenciaga

Bertrand Rindoff Petroff/Getty Images; Michel Dufour/WireImage


Other big names making a cameo appearance at Paris Fashion Week? Well, of course. She showed her support for Balmain's creative director Olivier Rousteing by going to the Balmain show, and revealing a little side boob in the process. The singer donned an olive green leather trench coat with a plunging neckline-and nothing else underneath.


Another famous front-rower was Kanye West, who showed up to Balenciaga. Kanye wasn't a big presence at New York Fashion Week this season, so maybe he's planning to focus on Paris and take in more shows here? We'll see!


Check out our gallery below for even more stars at Paris Fashion Week. Au revoir for now!


PHOTOS: Stars at Paris Fashion Week Fall 2014 RELATED VIDEOS:

Paris Fashion Week: At Damir Doma, polished grunge

Paris Fashion Week Fall-Winter 2014



PARIS -- Damir Doma, the Croatian-born designer who has name-checked Giorgio Armani as a hero, presented his most refined, wearable collection yet on Wednesday at Paris Fashion Week, infusing his fall-winter offerings with a polished take on grunge.


The inspiration: Classicism frayed with roughness, according to show notes.


The look: Cozy elegance.


Key pieces: Abstract, mottled-looking tapestry coat in burgundy/black melange. Officer coat in ombre mohair. Blurred blanket plaid wrap skirt. Black apron dresses framed with velvet taping. Tulle shift dresses with plaid block details. Peg leg trousers. Holey keyhole sweaters and sweater dresses. Metallic plaid knife pleat skirt with knit back.


The verdict: Lots for real women to wear in real life. Doma is emerging as a new architect of the everyday modern wardrobe.


ALSO: At Dries Van Noten, an Op Art rave Gareth Pugh's wacky forecast for fall Alexander Wang finds his groove at Balenciaga

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