EnterTeenment News Holiday Extravaganza
JUMP TO: Holiday Memories | Gift Guide
Holiday Memories From Your Favorite Celebs
Each year we talk to the actors and musicians featured on our site and ask them about their holiday memories. Then we share them with you! It's the gift that keeps on giving...
Keep checking back for more holiday goodness!
JUMP TO: Dillon Casey | Allstar Weekend | Booboo Stewart | Adam Irigoyen | Ana Golja | Cast of "Snowmen" : Josh Flitter, Christian Martyn, Beverly Mitchell | Warner Music Nashville Artists: the JaneDear Girls, Gloriana, Jana Kramer, Frankie Ballard, The Farm, Brett Eldredge, Big & Rich | Word Entertainment Artists: Dara Maclean, Chris August, Sidewalk Prophets, Group 1 Crew, Patrick Ryan Clark, for KING & COUNTRY, Big Daddy Weave | Marcus Paulk | Trevor Jackson | Margaret Durante | Josh Hutcherson | Alexander Ludwig
Dillon Casey
Dillon Casey has been working steadily on shows like "Being Erica," "Vampire Diaries," and "Torchwood." He can currently be seen in "Nikita" on the CW.
What are you most thankful for?
Being born in a first world country. That's pretty much winning the lottery without even buying a ticket.
How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
My mom's massive Irish Family got together in Uxbridge, Ontario. We ate and drank a lot. Our aunts competed over who had the most talented kids and our uncles gave us advice and told us our aunts are full of crap. Everybody was talking and nobody was listening. Good times.
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
I'm famous in my family for my WorldVision Christmas gift. One year I actually stopped at one of those charity kiosks and did all my shopping in one stop. I gave my mom one of those "You have given a goat to a family in Africa. Congratulations!" My brother Lyndon gave a bag of seeds, my sister a chicken. Etc. I thought it was great gift. It's one of those gifts you get and you're like 'uuhhh...thanks?' cause you're not really allowed to be disappointed.......Honestly it was the best gift I've ever given but it was definitely unfair to the recipients (my family, not the African families).
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
In the 90's there was this thing called the Fisher Price Tournament table. A table that was air hockey, ping-pong and pool all in one. My bros, my sister and I asked for it but our parents kept telling me it wasn't gonna happen. In the end we got it. That was pretty amazing. Of course it was only fun for about 10 minutes till you realized that being "3 things in 1" meant that it was basically a crappy pool table, a bad air hockey table, and a way-too-small ping pong table. The thing was junk....but the kids in the commercial looked really excited about it.......advertising....
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
Simple: Getting the game "Kings Quest V" for my old sh!*ty computer. Going downstairs with my brothers and sister and watching my dad play it until my mom had breakfast ready. It's the little things.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
I guess we have to keep saying "holiday" to be politically correct. I like the song "So this is Holiday" by John Lennon. And the song "Last Holiday" by "Wham" is a corny favourite.
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
Sleeping, watching movies, eating, reading. Overcoming devastating holiday depression. We all get it - you know what I'm talking about.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
Stretching more. I've always wanted to do the splits.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
If you're a bit lost - find something you like or even love to do. Do it often, get really good at it, show people you're doing it- and eventually people will pay you to do it.
Follow this talented actor on Twitter at: twitter.com/DillonCasey
Allstar Weekend’s Cameron and Zach
Fresh off the wildly successful Selena Gomez “We Own the Night” tour, Allstar Weekend released their second album “All The Way” in late September. The trio of guys are incredible musicians with a knack for writing songs that get stuck in your head and heart and won’t let go! Below Cameron Quiseng and Zach Porter give us the low-down on their Holiday wishes and memories.
Cameron:
What are you most thankful for?
My family and Allstar Weekend
How will you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
Every Thanksgiving I go over to my aunt's house and we have a huge feast!
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
Three years ago my sister’s favorite band was "The Maine" and a few weeks prior to Christmas we played a show with them so I got her an autographed cd. She almost cried.
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
Over the years I've gotten some pretty sweet gifts but I think the best gift I ever got was on the Christmas of 1996 when Santa made my bedroom "Space Jam" themed. Everything from the bedspread, to the wallpaper, to the carpet, to the custom basketball hoop hamper. It was something I will never forget.
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
I don't have just one favorite holiday memory. The holidays are always so cheerful that it seems to me that for the most part we're always having a good time.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
"White Chirstmas" and "The Christmas Song" but all of Michael Buble's new Christmas album is incredible.
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
At home with my family.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
No New Year's resolutions, I just hope to have as much fun as I did this year.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
I really hope you guys enjoy the Holidays and I can't wait to see you all on this winter tour!!
Zach:
What are you most thankful for?
Good health and the opportunities I've had to follow my dream.
How will you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
I'm going back to San Diego to visit my parents and brother.
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
I think I always give bad gifts. Every time I get my parents some cool gadget I come back a year later and it's still in the box ;)
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
I got this Lego set I really wanted called Aqua City one year. That was definitely the gift I was most excited about. A lot of celebratory dancing in my whitey-tighties.
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
I love holiday walks. When there's a cool neighborhood with lights up or a downtown with an ice rink and some kinda festivity. I just like walking around that kinda stuff.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
Bruce Springsteen's version of Santa Clause is Coming to Town and The Hanukkah Song.
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
I'm going to Pennsylvania to visit my grandpa.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
To stay true to my convictions and work hard.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
We've missed you not being on tour re past 2 months. Have a wonderful holiday and we'll see you guys out on the road this January and February.
Find and more about this fun and talented group here:
www.allstarweekendrocks.com
Like them on Facebook
Follow them on Twitter
Booboo Stewart
Booboo Stewart is currently winning over new fans by playing "Seth Clearwater" in the mega successful "Twilight" franchise. "Breaking Dawn: Part One" is in theaters now if you want to check him out on the big screen. He is no stranger to the entertainment industry though. He toured as a dancer with Miley Cyrus on the "Best of Both Worlds" tour, and has appeared as a guest star on shows like "CSI: Miami" and "Good Luck Charlie."
In 2012, the talented actor is looking forward to the release of "Breaking Dawn: Part Two." He will also be featured as the voice of "Jake" in "Guardians of Luna."
What are you most thankful for?
My family
How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
We always try to spend it together. It doesn't matter if we are home or not, as long as we can spend it as a family
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
I feel like I'm still pretty young to have given anyone something incredible yet
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
My computer
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
I don't have one specific one. On Christmas morning, my dad gets up to turn on the tree lights, turn on the fireplace, and turn on the Christmas music. Then, we all come in and start with our stockings, taking turns opening gifts. It's just I think how it should be.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
I like all the old traditional ones-Jingle Bells , Silent Night etc
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
I am hoping we can spend it at home
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
Not really --I try to always set goals and improve all year long
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
I hope everyone can have a fantastic Christmas and a Happy New Year--and if everybody just tries to help just one person or family that needs it this Holiday Season, it would make such a huge difference
Find out more about Booboo by following him on Twitter at twitter.com/RealBoobooFivel
Adam Irigoyen
Adam Irigoyen is building a large fan base, thanks to his role as "Deuce Martinez" on the way popular Disney Channel series "Shake it Up." The Miami native will spend part of his Holiday break in his hometown at a celebration taking place on December 26. See our Main Page for more details
What are you most thankful for?
I am most thankful for my parents because without them I would not be where I am today.
How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
This year for Thanksgiving I went to Chicago for the first time with my co-star and close friend Caroline Sunshine.
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
I would have to say a porcelain teddy bear that I gave my grandmother. It is not for what it is but because of the sentimental value it has for her especially, since we are so far apart from each other.
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
The best gift I've ever received is a trip to Miami to spend Christmas with the family.
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
I don't have a favorite holiday memory but my favorite types of Christmas memories are the ones where the family is gathered around the Christmas tree on Christmas morning.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
I personally LOVE the Boyz II men Christmas album.
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
I will spend this Christmas in Miami with the family.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
My New Year resolution is to continue my acting, dancing, and singing so that I can further my career.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
The holidays are meant to be spent with the family so be with them all you can because family is the most precious thing in this world.
You can find out more about this cutie by following him on Twitter at: twitter.com/adamirigoyen
Ana Golja
Ana has been on TV since she was nine! The Canadian born actress made her debut on "1-800-Missing" in Canada followed by several guest appearances on shows in her native country before getting her feet wet on American TV as a guest on "Flashpoint." She can currently be seen on the hit TV series "Clue" on the HUB network.
What are you most thankful for?
I am most thankful for having such a great family, and the opportunities I've been given in my life.
How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
I celebrated it at home with all my family, including my brother who came from university.
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
To me its not about the gift itself, as much as what it means to the person. Having said that, the most meaningful gift I have given, was to my mom. I had done all the chores(which she usually does in the morning), made breakfast, and gave it to her in bed, along with a flower and a thank you letter for all that she does for me.
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
I think the best gift I have received was when I was around 4. It was a holiday Barbie I wanted so badly, but never asked for. Imagine my surprise when I woke up Christmas morning and saw the Barbie with it's beautiful dress under the tree!
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
My favourite holiday memory is the tradition we have. We all sit around the fireplace, eat roasted chestnuts and chocolate, and watch "The Sound of Music".
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
I would say any holiday song because I just love the holidays, but if I had to choose it would be either "White Christmas" or "Silent Night".
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
I will be spending the holidays at home with all of my family and relatives.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
I want to advance ahead of my curriculum in school.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
My holiday message is: It's okay to dream. If you work hard and never give up, your dreams can come true!
Find out more about Ana and "Clue" at www.hubworld.com
The Cast of "Snowmen"
"Snowmen" is a humorous and heartfelt coming-of-age story that the whole family will enjoy. Starring new faces and people you might recognize (Beverly Mitchell from TV's "Secret Life of the American Teenager," and movie veterans Ray Liotta and Christopher Lloyd). It follows the lives of three unlikely heroes as they attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records feat of building the most snowmen. "Snowmen" is available now on DVD.
Chritian Martyn and Josh Flitter in "Snowmen"
Josh Flitter
Josh plays Jason Bound in the film. His previous roles include "Ace Ventura Jr." and the voice of Budderball in the popular series of films following a group of puppies in their adventures into space and sports ("Air Buddies," "Snow Buddies," "Space Buddies").
What are you most thankful for?
I am most thankful for my wonderful family and my dogs. Also I am thankful for the good health and happiness I have been given.
How will you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
I will celebrate Thanksgiving like I do most years. I go to my cousins house in Pennsylvania and we have a big turkey dinner. I have 8 cousins that I get to hang out with so that’s cool.
What is the best holiday gift you ever gave someone?
The best holiday gift I ever gave was a card I made for my parents when I was a little younger. We made them in school and made it personal and special and it didn’t cost a penny.
What is the best holiday gift you ever received?
The best holiday gift I received had to have been my dog when I was little. I remember getting him a little after the holidays but he is getting old now. He is a beagle and is turning 15 this year.
Describe your favorite holiday memory.
My favorite holiday memory is being with my family at my grandmas house . I miss her a lot but I will always have those memories.
What are your favorite holiday songs?
I like so many holiday songs. I like Paul McCartney “Wonderful Christmas Time”.
How will you spend the holidays this year?
I will spend the holidays with my family like I do every year. We all try to get together for Christmas because it’s important to have your family around as often as you can.
Do you have any New Year's resolutions?
I always try to make resolutions but I never seem to keep them .This year I want to get more in shape but I guess everyone feels the same way this time of year.
Christian Martyn
Christian plays Lucas Lamb. This is the first big movie role for the young up and comer, and his slate has been pretty full since.
What are you most thankful for?
I am thankful for having a family to share my life with. Many people don't have a family, or don't know where their family is.
How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
I celebrated Thanksgiving (Canadian) with a turkey dinner with my extended family.
What is the best holiday gift you ever gave someone?
I haven't given it yet, but I think my favourite Christmas gift to give will be a signed copy of Snowmen, especially to all of my friends and local fans!
What is the best holiday gift you ever received?
My favorite gift I received was my snowboard!
Describe your favorite holiday memory.
My favorite memory was using that snowboard at Blue Mountain with my family!
What are your favorite holiday songs?
I love Feliz Navidad, Mary, Did You Know? and Where Are You Christmas from the Grinch!
How will you spend the holidays this year?
Christmas will be spent at our house this year with all of my relatives here for dinner. I'm hoping to go snowboarding over the holidays, IF there's any snow (there isn't any yet!!). Our community choir will also be singing Christmas carols at the local nursing homes just before Christmas.
Do you have any New Year's resolutions?
I would like to focus on getting a lead in a feature film. I would also like to be more active outside in the next year.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
My holiday message would be to remind people how much we take our Christmas gifts for granted, and how any one of our many gifts would mean the world to someone less fortunate. We should also never forget the true meaning of the holidays, because there's always a reason behind each holiday we celebrate.
Beverly Mitchell
Beverly spent eleven years as Lucy Camden on the hit series "7th Heaven" and can now be seen on another hit series, "The Secret Life of the American Teenager," which airs on ABC Family. The talented actress is also a talented singer, and her self-titled debut CD will be release in 2012.
What are you most thankful for?
I am most thankful for my amazing husband and family and friends. They are all that matters to me in this world. Oh and my puppies!
How did you spend Thanksgiving this year?
I spent it with my family at my Mom's house.
What is the best holiday gift you ever gave someone?
The best gift I have ever given was when I took my husband's family pictures and got them scanned so everyone would have the pictures. I then made beautiful albums for each of them.
What is the best holiday gift you ever received?
The best gift I have ever received was our two golden retriever puppies who are just my little loves.
Describe your favorite holiday memory.
My favorite holiday memory is when I had both my husband’s family and my family together on New Year’s eve. We all went to the Rose Parade and Rose bowl game together. It was so nice having everyone together.
What are your favorite holiday songs?
Anything by Michael Buble or Sugarland. Any Christmas songs for that matter.
How will you spend the holidays this year?
With my husband and his family in Colorado.
Do you have any New Year's resolutions?
Just to breathe and take every in every moment. I am also fully commented to eating cleanly and getting healthy.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
Dream Big and don't let anyone get in your way. Anything is possible. And most importantly be nice to one another, smile and spread Love.
Find out more about Beverly here: http://www.thebeverlymitchell.com
Follow her on Twitter here: http://twitter.com/#!/beverleymitchel
Warner Music Nashville Artists Share Their Holiday Memories
Danelle Leverett
Any Christmas tradition/food that you love
I love helping my mom make Christmas sugar cookies:) They are cut out into different shapes like Xmas trees, stars, hearts etc. and decorated with green and red frosting and sprinkles!
Is there a Christmas present you remember being given as a kid
My parents gave me a ukulele when I was four years old and I loved to carry it with me EVERYWHERE I went!
Susie Brown
Is there a Christmas present you remember being given as a kid
Ever since I was a little girl I've been obsessed with horses. I used to read books about horses, watch movies with horses, cut out advertisements of horses for sale in the newspaper and show them to my parents so they knew exactly what kind of horse I wanted. My oldest sister had a bunch of horses, and when I was about 13 she bought a little white Arabian mare named Misty. We had a pasture at our house so I could ride her if my sister was there with her saddle. A few months later on Christmas morning I went out to the living room and saw an English riding saddle, hat, and riding pants. I was so excited I put on all my new riding clothes and saddled up our organ bench just so I could sit on it.
Tom Gossin
Is there a Christmas present you remember being given as a kid
"I'll never forget the Christmas when I received my first guitar -- I was 12 yrs. old. I disappeared into a quiet room with the guitar and emerged about three hours later and played my first song for my family, “Jingle Bells.” Little did I know, but that present would end up shaping the rest of my life!"
Michael Gossin
Favorite Christmas Food
Mom’s homemade brownies. My brothers and I called them “reindeer-terds.”
Favorite Christmas Present
My favorite Christmas present as a kid was He-Man action figures
Rachel Reinert
Christmas tradition/food that you love
We usually recreate Thanksgiving dinner for Christmas- turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce. The whole shebang! Is there a favorite Christmas present you remember being given as a kid: So typical, but I got an Easy Bake Oven as a little girl and I loved it! I wonder if I still have it?
Christmas food that you love?
My grandpa’s stuffing! It’s the best!
Is there a favorite Christmas present you remember being given as a kid?
My favorite gift was a fringe jacket. I thought I was Pocahontas when I was a little girl!
Favorite Christmas memory
My favorite Christmas memory is probably always having euchre tournaments with my family and just hanging out laughing!
Any Christmas tradition/food that you love
My dad and I always watch “Christmas Vacation” with Chevy Chase. It wouldn't feel like Christmas if we didn't do that every year.
Is there a favorite Christmas present you remember being given as a kid
Back when I played hockey there was a hockey jacket you would get, a red corduroy jacket, all the kids would get it and put patches on it when they got a hat trick or won a championship. I remember finally getting one and freaking out.
Nick
Some of my favorite holiday memories are playing music around the piano at my grandparents’ house on Christmas Day after everyone has opened presents and gotten fat off of my Grandma's cooking. When I was younger, I would need a little prodding to get my fiddle out, but once it was out, I wouldn't put it away! My Grandma would sit at the piano, my Grandpa would play stand-up bass, and we would play old Scandinavian tunes and Christmas songs for hours. When I was younger, I didn't realize how special those moments were, but I definitely cherish those memories now.
Damien
Some of my best memories as a child around the Christmas Holiday was singing in church! We would put together Christmas plays and friends and families would be there as we recreated the birth story of Jesus! I remember playing various parts like a star, a goad and even a wise man. I would have to say my favorite was playing the goat! We would drink eggnog after church and my family would all be together. Great times.
Krista
As the holiday quickly approaches, each year at this time, I find my heart a little melancholy. It reminds me of my father, how much I miss him and how wonderful he and my mother always made Christmas. I miss the sound of his accordion and the smell of our family-owned meat market smoking Christmas hams. I was eight-years old, give or take, and Dad decided we'd go out back on our land and I could pick out our tree. He patiently cruised for well over an hour until I had found the perfect one. To this day, I still pick out my own tree and smile, knowing dad is with me.
A few years ago my mom asked my brother and I for a new robe for Christmas. Being the jokesters that we are, we got the idea to get a really old gross robe and smeared brown shoe polish on it to make it look gross because we wanted to see how she would react. She opened it and tried to act like she liked it but I couldn't keep from laughing my butt off! I was laughing so hard I was crying! Eventually she figured out it was a prank and we went to the other room and brought her a brand new soft, clean robe! I kept the robe for Halloween and dressed up like 'Cousin Eddy' from Christmas Vacation!
Big & Rich
Big Kenny
Is there a Christmas present you remember being given as a kid
The greatest gift I've ever received is a letter from my Dad a few years back. He spoke of all of his memories of my life through my ups and downs. He told me he was proud and loved me through it all and his greatest words come in the last paragraph, '...be at Peace with yourself, be at Peace with everyone around you and most important be at Peace with God.' "
Is there a holiday treat that reminds you of Christmas
My grandmother would always make homemade Fruit Cakes. They were as dense as an energy bar and chewy as beef jerky. I miss my Grandmas and Christmas always brings their tremendous strong spirits back so close to my heart.
Any Christmas traditions you plan to share with your kids
I will never forget being about the age of my boys now (6 and 2) and sitting on my Daddy's lap and watching Berl Ives version of 'Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer'. And I'm gonna love on my kids as much as I can and watch it with them again this year.
Word Entertainment Artists
Dara Maclean
Best present you have ever received
I know I’m so blessed and don't need a thing, but I just found out that thanks to my amazing local radio station, KLTY, I'm getting Lasik! So Merry Christmas to me and no complaints! Also, four years ago, I received an adorable white fluffy present in the mail, my baby puppy Roman. Another wonderful present!
Favorite part about Christmas
Family. Just being together and not thinking about anything but the goodness of God from throughout the year. Just being together, that’s the good life.
Favorite Holiday tradition
Christmas on Christmas Eve. I have a small family so we all gather around the tree and enjoy Christmas the night before. It’s dark outside, hopefully snowing, and everyone is laughing as Bing sings in the background. Stockings are the best part for the big kids. It's amazing; what fantastic treasures we find!
Chris August
Favorite Christmas Memory
Sleeping under the Christmas tree
Best present you have ever received
A life size Empire State Building
Favorite part about Christmas
The Christmas lights!
Sidewalk Prophets
DAVE FREY
Favorite Christmas Memory
One of my favorite gifts that I’ve ever received was a Nintendo entertainment system. I came downstairs to find this rectangular box and inside was a gorgeous gray piece of the 90’s. Fast forward to college and I’m playing Mario still and who should happen to walk in to my dorm room, but Ben McDonald. I like to think that it was because of the Nintendo that here we are today with a band together named Sidewalk Prophets.
Favorite Christmas Tradition
Definitely decorating our Christmas tree. The Christmas tree decorating always kicks off with Mariah Carey’s Merry Christmas album. Then, after the entire tree is decorated, at the very end, we turn off all the lights and look at the beautiful Christmas tree and listen to Charlie Brown’s Christmas album.
BEN MCDONALD
Favorite Christmas Memory
Probably music at family gatherings - my Grandpa on the fiddle, uncle on the drums, dad on guitar and everyone singing (some better than others)! Good times.
Favorite Christmas Tradition
Decorating the Christmas tree while watching National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation…"She'll have to see it later dare, her eyes are frozen." CLASSIC.
CAL JOSLIN
Favorite Christmas Memory
When I think back, my favorite memories are of spending Christmas day with my family growing up. We would sleep in a little, open presents, eat a really great brunch and just enjoy the day together.
Favorite Holiday Tradition
In my family, my mom always cooks an authentic Swedish dinner for Christmas (well at least the meal she learned from her mother and so on), and it is definitely something that I look forward to every year. Swedish meatballs, Korv Sausage, Limpa bread, creamed potatoes, Lingonberry jam (which I pass on), rice pudding and sometimes even Pepparkakor cookies... yum!
JUSTIN NACE
Favorite Christmas memory
The candlelight services on Christmas Eve
Favorite Holiday Tradition
Opening one gift on Christmas Eve!
Group 1 Crew
BLANCA
Favorite Christmas memory
I was getting to spend Christmas in Puerto Rico for the first time with my dad and my brother and all my family on the Island. I remember it being so different for me because I was so used to spending Christmas in Orlando with my mom. But it will always be a special memory for me because now that my father has passed, its memories like this one that you hope to remember forever.
My favorite part about Christmas
EVERYTHING!! I can't pick one thing! One of my top things is the music! I also love decorating and eating lots and lots of food!! It’s like no matter what diet you’re on, you know that once the holidays come around, all diets go out the window!
MANUEL
Favorite Christmas memory
My favorite holiday memory from my childhood would have to be opening presents the night before Christmas. We used to stay up until midnight opening our gifts on Christmas Eve.
Favorite Holiday tradition
One tradition I am starting with my family is not to give gifts for each other, but we provide a good Christmas for another family who otherwise would not be able to provide Christmas for themselves and for their kids. That's what I want Christmas to be about from now on in my house.
Patrick Ryan Clark
Favorite Christmas Memory
When I think about my favorite Christmas memory, it has to be the year that "Santa" brought me a boom box. Yeah I said it, a boom box. I waited for months and months and then on Christmas morning, I walked out into the living room and there it was. It was black and silver, buttons and knobs everywhere, it was the most glorious thing I had ever seen. Then came the real test, the sound. I popped in my Michael Jackson "Thriller" cassette, I had never heard anything so beautiful. Ahh, what a great year.
Best Present I ever received
The best present that I ever received would have to be my first guitar that my parents bought me. The first time I ever attempted to play a guitar was with my roommate’s guitar in college and I remember thinking to myself, "This thing sounds horrible." I played for hours every day and it didn't matter how much I was improving the sound of that guitar just would not get any better. I played that borrowed guitar for about six months until Christmas finally came. My parents bought me my first guitar that I would end up playing for years to come. It was a "Simon and Patrick" and it was a great sounding guitar. I’m still so thankful that my parents bought me that guitar!
Favorite Holiday Tradition
Without a doubt it has to be watching "The Christmas Story" on TNT before falling asleep on Christmas Eve. It is such a ridiculous movie but there is just something about it that our family loves. We watch it, we quote it. Christmas around the Clark house just wouldn't be the same without that crazy movie playing on Christmas Eve. "You'll shoot your eye out!" Amazing.
for KING & COUNTRY
LUKE
Best present you have ever received
When I was about 10 or 11 I had asked 'Santa' for a drum set (I know, I was dreaming big!). That Christmas morning I woke up to zero presents and I'm thinking, "Did Santa forget about me? Maybe I asked for too much?" After looking around for a bit I saw a little bag at the end of my bed. I grabbed the bag and opened it up to find a pair of drum sticks! All that to say, it was a rather magical moment when I ran downstairs to see a brand new drum set all set up waiting for someone to play it!
Favorite part about Christmas
My favorite part of Christmas would have to be the time spent with family. Everyone is so busy throughout the year but Christmas is one day that everyone stops and reflects on the year and shares the memories that were created.
Favorite Holiday tradition
Every Christmas my Dad shares a devotional with the entire family and afterwards, we usually go around the room and share what we're most thankful for. I think it's important to reflect on all that we've been given and to cherish the moments we have together. That I must say, would be my favorite Christmas tradition!
JOEL
Best present you ever received / Best present you ever gave
It was the first Christmas we spent in the US, Dad was out of work and we were just kids. We were roughing it, sleeping on beds made out of clothes in a furniture-less house. Mum said to us, “Santa will only be able to bring gifts from the Dollar Store this year.” I remember thinking, “No way, Santa's not dictated by whether or not we have money.” Unbeknownst to me, a 1st grade class found out we had no money and sponsored our family for Christmas. We received more gifts that year than ever!
Favorite Holiday tradition
In Australia, Santa doesn't stick gifts under the Christmas tree or come down the chimney (due to the fact that there are no chimneys in most Australian homes), but rather, he puts the presents at the end of your bed. So as a family on Christmas Eve we would paint pictures and write our names on empty pillow cases and then stick them at the end of our beds. In the morning we'd wake up to the pillow cases overflowing with gifts! Not to mention, Santa always ate some of the banana and drank some of the milk I left out… But he never drank or ate it all because, I figured, there were a lot of other children who would put out food and milk as well?
Big Daddy Weave
MIKE
Favorite Christmas Tradition:
I love seeing the look of surprise and happiness on my kid’s faces as they come downstairs. Kandice and I sit downstairs and video tape and take pictures of the kids as they come down the steps. It’s like the red carpet!
Best give you have ever received
Being welcomed into Kandice’s family. I first met them at Thanksgiving before we got engaged and they were so great and welcoming. It is one of the best gifts I’ve received!
JAY
Best present you have ever received
I got married in December 2003. It was the best present I have ever received!
Favorite Holiday tradition
In the new Weaver household, we decorate the Christmas tree with all old standard carols – 40s the day after Thanksgiving.
JEFF
Favorite Christmas story
One year when I was a kid, my parents hid my big Lego present behind the tree from me and let me believe I didn’t get it. After I almost started crying, they brought it out to show me.
Favorite part about Christmas
The cold weather, hot chocolate, Christmas music in the background, watching my cats play under the tree and play with Elf on the Shelf with my daughters.
JOE
Favorite Christmas memory
The fun times of snow sledding and then to come in for hot chocolate and warmth by the fireplace.
Best present you ever received
I love anything handcrafted by my kids!
JEREMY
Favorite part about Christmas
Seeing and spending time with family.
Marcus Paulk
Marcus Paulk is a Los Angeles native who cut his acting chops starring as singer, Brandy’s younger brother in the hit series “Moesha.” He was present on the big screen in films like “Roll Bounce” and “Take the Lead.”
Next up for this handsome actor is a supporting role in the feature film release “Red Tails,” along side such heavy weights as Bryan Cranston, Cuba Gooding, Jr. and Terrence Howard.
Before the movie is released in early 2012, Marcus will enjoy the Holidays with his family. He gives us his Holiday scoop below!
What are you most thankful for?
I am most thankful for my family, friends and a chance to share my talents through acting and music.
How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
This year I celebrated Thanksgiving with my family here in Los Angeles. We had a large turkey, dressing, mac n cheese dinner.
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
The best Holiday gift I ever gave was my rendition and performance of a "Barry White" song for my Grandma.
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
The best Holiday gift that I have ever received was when I was much younger, I received a microphone and stand.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
My favorite Holiday song is "I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas", since I live in California I have never had the pleasure of enjoying a white christmas.
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
This year I will spend most of the Holidays with family and friends in Los Angeles, but for New Years Eve I'm planning to go to Las Vegas and ring in the New Year.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
This year my New Year's resolution is to refocus my energies to achieve a few new goals on my list.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
My Holiday message for my fans this year is for them to make everyday count and remember to most of all count their blessings.
Follow Marcus on Twitter here: http://twitter.com/MarcusPaulk
Trevor Jackson
Trevor Jackson is an Indiana native who’s resume consists of everything from theater (his first professional job was in a Christmas play called “Beef and Boards Christmas Show” and he toured as “Young Simba” in the national touring production of “The Lion King.”) to appearances on such television shows as “Cold Case” and the SyFy Channel series “Eureka.”
Next up, Trevor will be one of the leads in the original Disney Channel movie “Let it Shine.” His co-stars include Tyler James Williams, CoCo Jones, and Brandon Michael Smith.
What are you most thankful for?
I'm most thankful for my family and for the opportunity to do what I love everyday.
How did you celebrate Thanksgiving this year?
I spent my Thanksgiving with my godparents in Philly
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
The best gift I gave someone is when I gave them a card that told them how much I cared about them.
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
My family coming to surprise me at Christmas when I was on tour with The Lion King. When we celebrated Christmas with my family and my godparents family in Orlando and went to Disney World.
What are your favorite holiday songs?
My favorite holiday songs are This Christmas (Donny Hathaway & Chris Brown) The Christmas Song (Nat King Cole) & Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Jackson 5).... actually the entire Jackson 5 Christmas album.
How will you spend the holidays this year?
I will spend the holidays back home with my family in Indiana. I'll catch some of my big bros college basketball games, hang out with my family at the Christmas Eve brunch and go visit more family on Christmas.
Do you have any New Year's resolutions?
My New Year's Resolutions are to try to be a better me and inspire as many people as I can to do the same.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
Much love to you and your family this holiday season, enjoy yourself and let's make a change.
Find Trevor on Facebook here
Follow Trevor on Twitter here
Margaret Durante
Margaret has had an extremely busy year that included releasing her first EP called "Maybe Tonight" on Emrose Records. She also had two songs on the "Shake it Up: Break It Down" soundtrack from the super popular Disney Channel series "Shake it Up." Speaking of the Disney Channel, Margaret's music has also appeared on "Good Luck Charlie." This country music singer balances singing, performing and recording with bloging about her experiences for Ladies Home Journal. She took a break from her hectic schedule to share her thoughts on the Holidays with all of us.
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
The gift that I spent the most time on was a booklet of "coupons" that I gave my parents when I was little. Each one was different and and could be redeemed for washing the dishes, doing the laundry or a foot rub and other things like that. I illustrated each coupon, and made a book out of the coupons and thought it was the best gift ever!
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
I received a "My Size Barbie" when I was 5 and couldn't believe my eyes when it was waiting for me in the family room on Christmas morning. I fit into her pretty, pink dress and wore it for the rest of the holiday season.
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
I remember when I got to sing "the Christmas song" in my first grade Christmas recital and loving being on the stage and singing for friends and family. I still smile every time I hear that song during the holidays.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
I mentioned "The Christmas Song" but I also can't get enough of Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas is You." I could listen to that any time of the year.
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
I will be up in Maryland with family and friends for a few days. I celebrate Christmas Eve with my mom's side of the family and Christmas day with my Dad's side.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
Get good at playing the piano again!
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
Make sure to be thankful for everything and spend time with the ones you love! That is the only thing that's really important!
You can find out more about and hear more from Margaret Here: www.margaretdurante.com/
Like her on Facebook
Follow her on Twitter
Photo credit: Kristin Barlowe
Josh Hutcherson
This interview was conducted for our Holiday feature page in 2009, but we thought we'd bring it back since Josh is about to be seen all over the world in "The Hunger Games" as Peeta. For more about the movie check out our HUNGER GAMES feature page!
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
The best Christmas gift that I gave was floor seats to a UK basketball game to my brother.
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
My parents gave me and my brother hand painted Obama Nike Air Force Ones. They were the best.
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
All of my family getting together at our house for Christmas, playing games, eating food and just hanging out.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
I don't really have a favorite song. I like all the songs on the original "Very Special Christmas" album.
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
This year I'll be spending the holidays with my family in Kentucky.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
Don't forget what the holidays are really about. Being thankful for what you have and spending time with your family.
"Hunger Games" poster provided by Lionsgate
Alexander Ludwig
We also brought this interview back from 2009 for you all to re-discover. Alexander plays "Cato" in "The Hunger Games" For more about the movie check out our HUNGER GAMES feature page!
What is the best Holiday gift that you ever gave someone?
Every year for the past 10 years I have dressed up as Santa and put antlers on my dog so that she looks like a reindeer. I arrive at the front door and bring my little sister Sophia a small gift or toy. The reaction she gives me is amazing- its pure innocence and wonder.
What is the best Holiday gift that you have received?
I remember it perfectly. It was Christmas Eve, and Andy Fickman the Director of "Race to Witch Mountain" called my cell while I was skiing on Whistler mountain to tell me that I had the role of Seth in the movie. It was incredible...what a gift.
Describe your favorite Holiday memory.
While traveling with my family in Burma, we were fortunate enough to get the know the people of the villages and to give the children small toys for Christmas. It was a true awakening. We are so lucky in our lives.
What are your favorite Holiday songs?
Winter Wonderland
How will you spend the Holidays this year?
Skiing with my friends and family at Whistler Mountain.
Do you have a holiday message for your fans?
Have a very Merry Christmas!
"Hunger Games" poster provided by Lionsgate
Gift Guide
Food Items | Keepsake Items | Home Entertainment | Books . Toys | Games | Charity Suggestions
Don’t Forget the Sweet Treats This Holiday Season!
Need to add extra sweetness to a Holiday gathering or just a “pick me up” during the crazy Holiday shopping madness? Krispy Kreme Doughnuts is sure to bring a smile to even the biggest Grinch’s face.
The culinary favorite is adding three special Holiday doughnuts to the menu. The Snowman Doughnut is a snowman shaped doughnut frosted in white icing sporting a red icing scarf and a joyful smile. The Chocolate Iced with Holiday Sprinkles is a chocolate iced doughnut decked in seasonal red and green sprinkles. The Red Velvet Doughnut is a
rich cake doughnut topped with cream cheese icing and red velvet cake crumbles. Trying to shop for that person who has everything? Try picking up some Krispy Kreme Gift Certificates. The java-drinking adults on your list would love to try a bag of their signature coffee. Stop in the Krispy Kreme near you and pick up a 2012 Calendar for just $5.00. This handy item also contains over $90 worth of coupons. The extreme couponer on your list will appreciate that!
Find a store near you or learn more about there fabulous culinary treats at: www.KrispyKreme.com or visit them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/KrispyKreme
Hallmark Keepsakes
Ornaments
With more than 250 Keepsake Ornaments, Hallmark has a perfect one for everyone. For movie buffs, the 2011 line features characters from summer blockbusters like Twilight, Thor, and the Green Lantern. For sports nuts, there are Keepsake Ornaments featuring NFL football players and other sports themes.
Check out the full collection here: www.hallmark.com/online/product/keepsake-ornaments/
The Merry-Okee Microphone
This year’s Christmas carols will go down in history thanks to Merry-Okee. Merry is a microphone that changes your voice to sound like an elf. So take turns singing your favorite holiday tunes (and laughing a lot!)
Check it out here: hwww.hallmark.com/online/offers/in-store-offers/holiday-open-house/merry-okee.aspx
Home Entertainment
Merlin Seasons 1 & 2 on DVD and for download iTunes Click images to buy on Amazon.com
For Fans of Swords and Sorcery, Warriors and Warlocks...
MERLIN has become a TV favorite with families and fans of swords and sorcery, warlocks and warriors. For those who are new to the worldwide hit, a bit of background is important – because in Camelot, not everything is as it appears.
King Uther rules the land, with the increasing counsel and assistance from his son, Prince Arthur. For years – and for reasons known only to him – the King has banned the practice of magic from Camelot, under penalty of death. The young warlock Merlin perfects his considerable abilities in secret, under the tutelage of the court’s physician, Gaius.
The use of magic may be forbidden, but Camelot is nonetheless a magical place. The throne is under almost constant threat from the outside, and many of the rulers of nearby kingdoms in the land of Albion (as the entire region is known) have attempted to topple Uther.
The most potent of these attacks has come from the relentless Morgause, who has made it her life’s work to see Camelot destroyed and to ascend the throne with her half-sister, Morgana – who has long been the ward of Uther – at her side.
There are dangers and perils, yes … but Camelot is, above all, a land of enchanted adventure, enormous heroism and stunning bravery, best represented by Arthur – whose destiny is to take his father’s place as the rightful heir to this most magnificent kingdom.
Season 3 will be available on DVD in January as the fourth season begins its run on the SyFy channel. Tune in January 6 for all new episodes of this exciting series!
For more visit www.syfy.com/merlin
Spy Kids: All the Time in the World Presents: Sending the Perfect Holiday Card
Shopping, Baking, Wrapping, Visiting- it's enough to put you into a holi-daze! In celebration of this most bustling time of the year, we present you with this activity for pint-sized secret agents: Design & Deliver Your Own Holiday Card courtesy of Spy Kids: All the Time in the World! Download and print easy step-by-step instructions for crafting a top secret message, and activate holiday cheer!
Books
Little, Brown Books Bestsellers:
Daughter of Smoke & Bone
Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky. In a dark and dusty shop, a devil's supply of human teeth grown dangerously low. And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war. Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages--not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out. When one of the strangers--beautiful, haunted Akiva--fixes his fire-colored eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?
Buy it online here
Beautiful Creatures Box Set
There were no surprises in Gatlin County. At least, that's what I thought. Turns out, I couldn't have been more wrong. Ethan Wate used to think of Gatlin, the small Southern town he had always called home, as a place where nothing ever changed. Then he met mysterious newcomer Lena Duchannes, who revealed a secret world where a curse has marked Lena's family of powerful Supernaturals for generations. Mysterious, suspenseful, and romantic, Beautiful Creatures, Beautiful Darkness, and Beautiful Chaos introduce a secret world hidden in plain sight. A world where impossible, magical, life-altering events happen. Sometimes life-ending.
Buy it online here
Monster High 2 - The Ghoul Next Door
Tensions are running high as Melody teams up with Frankie in a race against time to try and stop Bekka from spilling Jackson's big secret. But Frankie has bigger plans in mind - she and Brett decide to film a documentary to further the RADs cause ...but Bekka isn't about to let some monster steal her man! Meanwhile, Cleo freaks when her friends bolt on her Teen Vogue photo shoot to be in Frankie's documentary, and she starts giving Melody the evil eye - just what is that royal pain up to? Will Cleo stop at nothing to remain queen bee, even if it means teaming up with Bekka - a normie?!
Buy it online here
Monster High 3 - Where There's a Wolf, There's a Way
The frighteningly hip teenage children of the world's most famous monsters have gathered together under one roof...to brave the horrors of high school! Always overshadowed by her six brothers and her fab friends, Clawdeen Wolf plans to finally strut her stuff in the spotlight at her upcoming Sweet Sixteen bash. But after The Ghoul Next Door goes viral, it's into the woods for the family Wolf. Clawdeen goes stir crazy lying low at her family's B&B with her annoying brothers until Lala shows up to keep her company. But is the vamp flirting with Claude?!
Buy it online here
Scholastic Online told us about some of their top sellers this Holiday Season. You can order these notable reads here: scholasticonline
Scholastic Online Top Sellers
The Hunger Games Trilogy Boxset
by Suzanne Collins (Ages 12+; 37.78 Sale price) The extraordinary, ground breaking New York Times bestsellers The Hunger Games and Catching Fire, along with the third book in The Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay, are available for the first time ever in a beautiful boxset edition. Stunning, gripping, and powerful. The trilogy is now complete!
The Hunger Games Collector's Edition
by Suzanne Collins (Ages: 12+; $30.00) The astonishing bestseller, now in a deluxe, slipcased collector's edition featuring exclusive new Mockingjay artwork. In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV.
Shiver Trilogy: The Wolves of Mercy Falls Boxed Set
by Maggie Stiefvater (Ages 13+; 37.00 sale price) Maggie Stiefvater's #1 New York Times bestselling trilogy! The Wolves of Mercy Falls Boxed Set includes hardcover editions of Shiver, Linger, and Forever.
Green Witch
by Alice Hoffman (Ages 13+; $17.99) In this powerful, lovely sequel to Green Angel, Green must learn the stories of a number of''witches' and free her true soul mate from a prison as she grapples with life, love, and loss in a post-disaster world.
We asked our friends at Scholastic Book Clubs and Scholastic Book Fairs what they recommended for the readers in your life during this Holiday Season and here are their top picks!
Scholastic’s Holiday Gift List for Readers:
Picture Books
10 Little Caterpillars by Bill Martin Jr., illustrated by Lois Ehlert (Simon & Schuster)
Can You See What I See? Toyland Express written and illustrated by Walter Wick (Scholastic)
If You Give a Dog a Donut by Laura Numeroff, illustrated by Felicia Bond (HarperCollins
)
The Man in the Moon written and illustrated by William Joyce (Simon & Schuster) Pinkalicious: The Princess of Pink Treasury written and illustrated by Victoria Kann (HarperCollins)
Transitional Readers and Chapter Books
Clementine and The Family Meeting by Sara Pennypacker, illustrated by Marla Frazee (Disney Hyperion Books)
Fly Guy: Fly Guy vs. The Flyswatter! by Tedd Arnold (Scholastic)
Magic Tree House: Dogs in the Dead of Night by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Salvatore Murdocca (Random House)
Rainbow Magic: Magical Holiday Boxed Set by Daisy Meadows (Scholastic)
Super Diaper Baby 2: The Invasion of the Potty Snatchers by Dav Pilkey, George Beard, and Harold Hutchins (Scholastic)
Middle Grade Fiction
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney (Abrams)
The Heroes of Olympus, Book Two: The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan (Disney Hyperion Books)
The 39 Clues: Cahills vs. Vespers Book 2: A King's Ransom by Jude Watson (Scholastic)
War Horse by Michael Morpurgo (Scholastic)
Wonderstruck written and illustrated by Brian Selznick (Scholastic)
Young Adult Fiction
Crossed by Ally Condie (Penguin)
Inheritance by Christopher Paolini (Random House)
Okay For Now by Gary D. Schmidt (Clarion Books)
The Hunger Games Trilogy Boxed Set by Suzanne Collins (Scholastic)
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater (Scholastic)
Nonfiction
How Cool Is This: An Up-close, Inside Look at How Things Work (DK Publishing)
The Hugo Movie Companion: A Behind the Scenes Look at How a Beloved Book Became a Major Motion Picture by Brian Selznick (Scholastic)
Lego Harry Potter: Building The Magical World (DK Publishing)
Lego Star Wars Character Encyclopedia (DK Publishing)
Ripley's Believe It or Not!: Special Edition 2012 (Scholastic)
Scholastic partners with a ton of schools to make purchasing easier for students. Be sure to ask your teacher for a Scholastic Order Form or check out these titles when the Book Fair comes to your school. You can also order their selections here: www.scholastic.com/bookclubs
Books are the gifts that truly keep giving as stories get passed down from generation to generation. They inspire and educate and give young readers safe escapes from sometimes very hectic realities. Change the world of a child and/or young adult in your life and give them plenty of books to read this Holiday season!
Click the image to buy on Amazon.com!
Frogs are Funny! The Most Sensational, Inspirational, Celebrational, Muppetational Muppets Joke Book Ever!
A bright and fun collection of some of the best jokes, one-liners, and comedy bits ever spouted by your favorite Muppet characters, illustrated with full color photos of the Muppets. A must-have for Muppets fans of all ages!
Click on image to order at Amazon.com
Gaga by Terry Richardson
In this book of original, behind-the-scenes photographs, acclaimed photographer Terry Richardson follows superstar Lady Gaga during one year of her life, from Lollapalooza through the final show of her Monster Ball tour. During the time period he followed Gaga, Richardson took over 100,000 images and attended more than 30 Monster Ball dates around the world. From the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards to the Don't Ask, Don't Tell repeal rally in Portland, Maine, to the Thierry Mugler show at Maxime, Paris, Richardson captures Lady Gaga as you've never seen her before. A year-long global odyssey- -all access, nothing off limits--this is the book Lady Gaga fans have been waiting for.
Please note: this book contains nudity, we do not recommend it for anyone under 18.
Click on image to order on Amazon.com
Legends of the Dragonrealm Volume III
The epic fantasy series Legends of the Dragonrealm continues in this omnibus edition by New York Times bestselling author Richard A. Knaak...including three bonus novellas in print for the first time!
For more visit the author's Web site here: www.richardaknaak.com
Click on an image to order on Amazon.com
Neverwinter: Neverwinter Saga, Book II and Neverwinter Campaign Setting: A 4th edition Dungeons & Dragons Supplement
Neverwinter Saga
With the last of his trusted companions having fallen, Drizzt is alone--and free--for the first time in almost a hundred years. Guilt mingles with relief, leaving Drizzt uniquely vulnerable to the persuasions of his newest companion--Dahlia, a darkly alluring elf and the only other member of their party to survive the cataclysm at Mount Hotenow. But traveling with Dahlia is challenging in more ways than one. As the two companions seek revenge on the one responsible for leveling Neverwinter--and nearly Luskan as well--Drizzt finds his usual moral certainty swept away by her unconventional views. Forced to see the dark deeds that the common man may be driven to by circumstance, Drizzt begins to find himself on the wrong side of the law in an effort to protect those the law has failed. Making new enemies, as his old enemies acquire deadly allies, Drizzt and Dahlia quickly find themselves embroiled in battle--a state he's coming to enjoy a little too much.
4th Edition D & D Supplement
Reduced to ruins by supernatural cataclysms, Neverwinter rises from the ashes to reclaim its title as the Jewel of the North. Yet even as its citizens return and rebuild, hidden forces pursue their own goals and vendettas, any one of which could tear the city apart. Neverwinter has long been one of the most popular locations in the Forgotten Realms® campaign world. This book presents a complete heroic-tier campaign setting that plunges players into the politics, skullduggery, and peril of a city on the brink of destruction or greatness. A wealth of information about Neverwinter and its environs is provided: maps, quests, encounters, and statistics -- everything a Dungeon Master needs for his heroic tier adventures.
For more visit the author's Web site here: www.rasalvatore.com
Toys & Collectibles
It wasn’t polite to play with your food until now! The most-watched web series of all-time, The Annoying Orange, is leading the trend of digital properties dominating holiday wish lists for kids of all ages. The Annoying Orange has taken the Internet by storm with an impressive 840 million total views and more than 100 episodes at: http://www.youtube.com/user/realannoyingorange.
Created by Dane Boedigheimer, the popular web series features an endearingly annoying Orange that playfully heckles other fruit and vegetables.
So forget about red and green, Orange is what it’s all about this holiday and below are some of this season’s “must have” stocking stuffers including talking plush, clip-ons, collectible figures and apparel based on Orange and the entire Kitchen Crew:
Fresh Squeezed Annoying Orange Plush
Each fresh talker is soft plush with photo-realistic features to reflect the characters who everyone knows and loves! With a soft squeeze, these kitchen crew members come to life! Includes TRY ME feature, so you get to hear the same jokes and puns from the YouTube series such as “I’m not irritating, I’m an Orange!,” "Hey...hey Apple!" and "Two’s company, cheese is a crowd.”
Annoying Orange Talking Collectible Figures
These plastic talking collectibles are textured with detail and include TRY ME feature to hear the classic jokes and puns from each Kitchen Crew member. Each 2.5” figure is packaged in a gift-like window box for added collectability. Collect them all: 4 Orange styles, Pear, Midget Apple, Marshmallow and Passion Fruit.
Talking Kitchen Crew Clip-Ons
Each member of the kitchen crew is perfectly reflected in these 1.5” talking Clip-Ons. Attached to a metal clip-on, you can take them anywhere & let them speak for themselves! Includes TRY ME feature “Hey…Hey Apple!” Collect this Kitchen Crew assortment: 4 Orange styles, Pear, Midget Apple, Grandpa Lemon, Marshmallow and Passion Fruit.
Talking Fresh Squeezed Clip-Ons
These 2.25” fresh squeezed Annoying Orange Clip-Ons are soft, easy to clip-on and take on the go! With a quick squeeze, you’ll hear the most annoying sounds…wherever you go! Includes TRY ME feature “Hey! Who cut the cheese?” Collect this fresh squeezed Clip-on crew: 4 Orange styles, Pear Midget Apple and Marshmallow. SRP: $7.99 Available at Toys R Us and ToysRUs.com
Mini Kitchen Crew Collectibles
These 1.25” Mini Kitchen Crew Collectibles are adorably cute…and addicting to collect! Don’t be an apple! Collect them all in Orange styles and the rest of the Kitchen Crew; Pear, Midget Apple, Grandpa Lemon, Marshmallow and Passion Fruit.
Annoying Orange T-Shirts
T-shirts based on The Annoying Orange featuring classic jokes and themes from the popular web series. The short-sleeved, cotton crewnecks are available in Men’s and Junior’s sizes S – XXL and feature a variety of designs including “Hey Apple, Knife!,” “Wasabi,” “100% Pure Annoying!” and “Big Face.”
Annoying Orange toys available at toysrus.com
Annoying Orange t-shirts available at JCPenney.com
Video Games for the Whole Family
New Hits from THQ
Voltron: Defender of the Universe
Get ready to activate interlock! Dynotherms connected! Infracells up! Mega thrusters are go! The Voltron you remember from the 1980s TV series is back! THQ's Voltron: Defender of the Universe invites you to live out your childhood fantasies, or introduce a new generation of fans to the epic space saga now available on PlayStation®Network and Xbox LIVE® Arcade!
Trailer Preview
Revisit the most defining moments from the classic series, including the discovery of the Lions and the very first time the Space Explorers form Voltron. Battle King Zarkon’s evil forces and journey across the universe, exploring a variety of environments – including planet Arus. It is up to you to restore justice and galactic peace. Play as the Space Explorers, Lions and Voltron himself!
Specialized Lions: Take advantage of each Lion’s unique weaponry and strengths based on your own personal play style and preferences. Select based on tanking capabilities, swiftness, ranged elemental attacks, and a wide range of other characteristics.
Annihilate Familiar Foes: Rip up the planet surface or fly in any of the five Lions as you battle fierce Robeasts and other enemy combatants including several memorable classic villains.
Strategize Carefully: Familiarize yourself with the Lions’ individual strengths and resistances to maximize effectiveness. Pick your Lion wisely based on a number of circumstances – the success of the team depends on it!
Classic Cutscenes: Immerse yourself in the nostalgia of Voltron with a number of classic scenes from the 80s TV series, incorporated throughout the gameplay.
LET’S GO, VOLTRON FORCE!: In 1-2 player offline co-op or seamless 1-5 player online co-op, adventurers must control the individual Lions’ weaponry and work together to wield Voltron’s Blazing Sword.
Voltron: Defender of the Universe will be available on Xbox LIVE Arcade (800 Microsoft Points) and PlayStation Network ($9.99). For more information, visit www.thq.com
Spongebob Surf & Skate Roundtrip
Grab your board. Carve it up! Hit the sand and surf with SpongeBob and his best pal, Patrick, for some super boarding escapades! Ride mondo waves and winding waterways, and skate gnarly seaside streets and ramps for hours of challenges that’ll test your awesome boarding skills.
Trailer Preview
SpongeBob’s Surf & Skate Roadtrip is non-stop action! SpongeBob and his bodacious Bikini Bottombuddy jump on surfboards and skateboards to explore a brand new, never-before-seen world!
Key Xbox 360 Kinect Features: For the first time ever, you can BE SpongeBob Augmented reality—move your hand through the water and watch it splash! Compete and play with friends – show off your awesome tricks and mind-blowing stunts in head-to-head play (2-player split-screen) 12 awe-inspiring environments – 6 for each sport—and unlimited ways to perfect your board skills 7 different challenges including Gate, Timed and Score runs Express yourself with a variety of righteous boards – earn even more awesome boards, the better you ride Strike a pose: use your camera to show off gnarly moves and tricks
Key DS Features: Surf and Skate across more than 24 maps 2-player multi-play with Single and Multi-card gaming Grab some air in 5 different victory conditions – Score, Collectible, Combo Mayhem, Win the Race, Untouchable More than 150 ways to play for unlimited hours of boarding action Customize your boards with colors, stamps, wheels, fins and decks Bonus Sport: Full Snowboarding level with 10 maps unlocked upon game completion
For more information, visit www.thq.com
Reverb Communications Recommendations
Click image to buy on Amazon.com
Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked
Based off the movie in theaters next month, available on Kinect, Wii and DS. Sing and dance along to everyone’s favorite holiday characters
For more visit: www.chipwreckedgame.com
Click image to buy on Amazon.com
Grease
Based off the original musical hit Grease, head back to Rydell High and sing and dance to all the original music from the movie, as characters from the movie. Available on Kinect and PS3 Move.
For more visit: www.greasethegame.com
Click image to buy on Amazon.com
Twister Mania
Available on Kinect, twist, contort and move your body in this fun game that gets everyone up off the couch and playing the new spin of the classic board game Twister.
For more visit: majescoentertainment.com
Click image to buy on Amazon.com
Country Dance 2
Featuring over 30 chart topping hits from today’s hottest country artists including CMA award winners and male and female vocalists of the year Miranda Lambert and Blake Shelton. Available on Wii, simple to pick up and play, simply move the wii remote along to the dance moves seen on the screen.
For more visit: game-mill.com
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Hulk Hogan's Main Event
Hulk Hogan's Main Event is an Wrestling game exclusive for Xbox 360 which combines the in-game mentoring of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan and the controller-free capabilities of the Kinect Sensor for Xbox 360 (required for play and sold separately) to turn you into a world-class professional wrestler. The game features dozens of moves and attacks that are instantly recognized and unleashed by Kinect, nine in-game venues, a deep wrestler customization system, multiple modes, 2-player game support including tag team matches, the ability to use chairs and other objects.
For more visit: www.hulkhogansmainevent.com
For a Good Cause
The following charity organizations are in no way affiliated with EnterTeenment News. We just hold them close to our hearts. Making a donation in a family member or friend's name is a great gift that will make both you and them feel great. Some of the organizations even have cool shirts, buttons and wrist bands you can purchase to show your support or hand out to others.
LGBTQ Foundations
NOH8 Campaign
An organization founded by celebrity photographer Adam Bouska and his partner Jeff Parshley in the aftermath of California's passing of Proposition 8, in which voters ruled to take away marriage rights of LGBT people in the state. Countless celebrities from every walk of life have taken part in the campaign, lending their faces to photos you can purchase for a low price. Also available on the site are t-shirts, wristbands and buttons.
Find out more: www.noh8campaign.com / Facebook / Twitter
Straight But Not Narrow (SBNN)
Founded by "Victorious" star Avan Jogia, this unique organization brings straight allies together with LGBTQ youth to say "I get you." Messages from Avan and his friends, like "Glee" star Cory Monteith and "Hunger Games" cutie Josh Hutchinson speak volumes in the fight for equality, the end to bullying and give hope to those thinking no one will be in their corner. The SBNN campaign also has t-shirts, wristbands and buttons to share.
Find out more: www.wearesbnn.com / Facebook / Twitter
The Trevor Project
A national organization that helps prevent teen suicide for the LGBTQ community.
Find out more: www.thetrevorproject.org / Facebook / Twitter
Health and Well-Being Organizations
Talk About It Foundation - Epilepsy
Actor Greg Grunberg (Alias, Felicity) started this organization in honor of his son who suffers from Epilepsy. The foundation's goal is to get people talking about the disease, to inform those who are not aware of the issues faced by those either dealing with it or family and friends of sufferers.
Find out more: www.talkaboutit.org / Facebook / Twitter
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital - Children's Health and Cancer Research
Finding Cures. Saving Children.
Find out more: www.stjude.org / Facebook / Twitter
American Red Cross - Disaster Relief
Providing relief to those who have suffered from disaters such as hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes, the Red Cross has been helping the world for over 200 years.
Find out more: www.redcross.org / Facebook / Twitter
Susan G. Komen For the Cure - Breast Cancer
Founded by Susan's sister Nancy G. Brinker in honor of the courage and determination to beat the disease Susan showed throughout her breast cancer fight. The Susan G. Komen For The Cure Foundation raises money to find a cure to this disease which affects thousands of women, and even many men.
Find out more: ww5.komen.org / Facebook / Twitter
Lupus Foundation of America - Lupus
The Lupus Foundation of America, Inc. (LFA) is the foremost national nonprofit health organization dedicated to finding the causes of and cure for lupus and providing support, services and hope to all people affected by lupus.
Find out more: www.lupus.org / Facebook / Twitter
American Heart Association - Heart Disease
Our mission is to build healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. That single purpose drives all we do. The need for our work is beyond question.
Find out more: www.heart.org / Facebook / Twitter
ONE and (RED)- HIV/AIDS
A worldwide organization started by U2 lead singer Bono, this foundation is trying to find a cure for HIV/AIDS and help those suffering from the disease all over the world get funding for food, clothing and medicine.
Find out more: www.one.org / Facebook / Twitter
TJ Martell Foundation - Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS
"Where Music Brings Hope" reads the tagline. In 1973 music producer Tony Martell's son TJ was battling Leukemia and asked his father to raise money to help find a cure "so that no one else has to suffer the way I do." Tony agreed. Two years later TJ passed away at age 19 and Tony vowed to continue to raise money for research in his son's honor.
Find out more: www.tjmartellfoundation.org / Facebook / Twitter
Pets and Wildlife
The Humane Society
A national organization which raises money to protect the well-being of our pets and other animals who live in the wild. Their goal is to make sure there are laws in place to help keep all animals safe from any harm.
Find out more: www.humanesociety.org / Facebook / Twitter
Pets Alive Animal Santuary
A no kill animal shelter that raises money to help house stray pets until they can be adopted by loving families.
Find out more: www.petsalive.com / Facebook / Twitter
World Wildlife Fund
Building a future in which people live in harmony with nature.
Find out more: www.worldwildlife.org / Facebook / Twitter
Close to Their Hearts...Celeb Suggestions
Drake Bell : The Thirst Project
An organization to help people without drinkable water get what they need for purifying water and donating water to regions without any means to do so.
Find out more: www.thirstproject.org / Facebook / Twitter
AnnaSophia Robb : There With Care / Dalit Freedom Network
There With Care : Provides fundamental support services to families and children facing critical illness during medical crisis.
For more: www.therewithcare.org / Facebook / Twitter
Dalit Freedom Network: An organization founded to help prevent and stop human trafficking.
For more: www.dalitnetwork.org / Facebook / Twitter