The 88th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Spongebob Squarepants by Nickelodeon

One of the greatest spectacles in American show business once again came to New York City on Thanksgiving Day.  The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, in its 88th year swept through the streets to a live audience of 3.5 million.  That is in addition to the 50 million watching at home on NBC.  The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade features massive helium balloons, floats, guest musical appearances, marching bands, celebrity appearances, and to top it off, Santa Clause.  This magical event has been going on since 1924 and used to feature lions, tigers, camels, bears, goats, and elephants.  Santa Claus himself has always ended the parade except for one year when he started it off.  In recent times, they have added “Falloons” (float and cold air balloon hybrid), Balloonicles (balloon and vehicle hybrid) and “Trycaloons” (part tricycle part balloon).  The parade strolls through Manhattan, the most densely populated borough of New York.  It starts on the west side of Central Park on 77^th St. and finishes at Macy’s on 34^th St. 

An Inspiring Weekend at Fall LEAF Festival 2014

The Mystical Arts of Tibet performing at LEAF Festival

Photography by David Oppenheimer
Article by Jeremy Chrzan

Once again, the Fall 2014 LEAF Festival came and left with a bang.  October’s event once again featured the best in family entertainment and culture in Western North Carolina.  Located in Black Mountain, NC, about 15 minutes from the cultural mecca of Asheville, the LEAF Festival is nestled beside the serene Lake Eden at Camp Rockmont.  Since its inception in 1995, LEAF has become well known for its diverse cultural atmosphere with family friendly vibes.  LEAF has been voted the best music festival for camping and kids two years running in the local periodical Mountain Xpress.  The event occurs in the spring and fall of every year and typically sells out every time.  Fall LEAF really lives up to its name, with the leaves on the trees on their way to changing into a beautiful palette of reds, golds, and yellows.  Despite the cold, the fall LEAF packed a solid punch of exceptionally good times for all in attendance.