After spending a summer full of outdoor festivals, pool parties and beach trips, it’s time to repair the wear and tear the season has done on skin and hair. Even though you applied sunscreen according to directions and blow-dried your hair less, you still notice a few extra freckles on your cheeks and shoulders and slightly frizzy, damaged hair. Here are some tips, both using over-the-counter products and natural remedies, to help minimize and undo the damage and get your skin and hair ready for fall and winter.

Skin

To address discoloration from photo (sun) damage or the help brighten skin tone, use a three product approach to ensure consistent results and to help maintain melanin distribution. Use a weekly exfoliating product, either one with a round (polyethylene) micro bead or a non-physical cleansing wash with glycolic acid, to help remove dead skin cell build up and to continuously push forward new skin cells. Use once a week for dry or normal skin and twice a week for combination and oily skin. For daily use, lightening serums will do the majority of the work, since they are more concentrated and sit closest to skin under moisturizers. Various formulas are available, but look for ones with ingredients such as citrus or vitamin C, peptides (proteins), mulberry, raspberry, blueberry, licorice or grape seed. If these types of ingredients are not effective enough, consider upgrading to formulas with retinol, hydroquinone or 10% glycolic, which are to only be used at night and accordingly to skin type. Since these ingredients are highly recommended for nighttime use only (to prevent photosensitivity), continue the lightening process in the day by using a serum without one of these three mentioned products. Most importantly, always use a daily SPF, preferably a minimum of SPF 30 (especially when using retinol, hydroquinone or 10%) so as not to undo the lightening process.

For a natural approach, use a weekly treatment of rubbing a slice of fresh peach on clean, dry skin and letting the juice set for 20 minutes. Rinse with water and follow with a lightening serum and moisturizer. This can be repeated 2-3 times a week for all skin types.

Hair

Nothing beats a detox treatment, especially for hair. To help remove a summer’s worth of chlorine, salt water, product and dead skin cell build-up, use a clarifying shampoo and conditioner regularly. Clarifying products promote shine by allowing your regular shampoos, conditioners and styling products to work better and help maintain the pH of the scalp. For fine or oily hair, use a clarifying shampoo once a week, while thick, dry, color treated or curly hair should use once every two weeks.

A natural way to clarify is to use apple cider vinegar. After using and rinsing out your regular shampoo, pour ¼ cup of vinegar, let sit for 2-3 minutes and rinse out. Or mix equal parts shampoo and vinegar, let the mixture sit in the hair for 2 min and rinse out.

For thick, dry, color treated and curly hair types, consider a weekly pre-shampoo oil treatment, both to repair strands and to help prevent dry scalp. A natural recipe is to use equal parts camellia oil (found either online or in Japanese markets) and jojoba oil (found in vitamin shops or natural markets), rub the mixture in both scalp and strands, let sit for a minimum of 20 minutes (or longer for dry, coarse hair) and shampoo out and condition as regular. Use 1-2 times a week.

A photogragh should not just be taken for a particular occasion but as a way to celebrate life and beauty. And that is just what Mariana Maya had in mind when she created her Femme Fatale boudoir session. These photo sessions capture women with a classic look.

“My Femme Fatale sessions came to be from a need to portray women in their natural beauty. Enhancing what we were born with, through the lens with the help of a great make-up artist and beautiful natural lighting” says Mariana.

There are so many reasons that spark women to book a Femme Fatale boudoir session. Sometimes women want a special gift to give to your husband on their wedding night or as an anniversary gift.

“I am also beginning to see many women coming to me as they begin a new life due to a recent divorce and some as a result of surviving breast cancer. As a celebration of life” says Mariana.

But for many of women the thought of wearing something sexy and baring yourself in front of a camera can be intimidating. In order to help her clients feel comfortable in front of the camera, Mariana creates an easy going atmosphere. She interacts with her clients but tries to capture the moment by giving minimal direction.

“I always joke around and talk to my clients. I try to share something personal with them, since they are sharing so much with me. Sometimes I will even show one or two in camera images to assure the client they look great!” says Mariana.

Many times the photo sessions turn into a way for a woman to overcome their insecurities and embrace their natural beauty. Mariana recalls on particular woman who requested no close-up shots because she as very conscious of her wrinkles on her face.

“I told her she was beautiful and had a great smile she shouldn’t cover up. Reluctantly she let me photograph more of her face. When she viewed her proofs she was smiling ear to ear! She loved her images and much to my surprise choose to have printed ONLY images where her face was not covered by her hair,” recalls Mariana.

That particular client loved how she came out in the photos.

If you are ready to celebrate your natural beauty with a Femme Fatale and Boudoir photo session by Mariana Maya. Whether you want a special gift to give to your husband on your wedding night or as an anniversary gift, the photos are sexy, timeless, and classic. Mention Modern Latina and receive 20% discount off regular price portrait session (Sessions must be booked by Sept 30, 2010). Visit http://www.marianamaya.com, email info@marianamaya.com or call (408)916-3474 to reserve your photo session.

Tinisima by Elena Poniatowska is an exquisite masterpiece that holds you captivated by its beauty created in one’s imagination. It is one of those books that keeps you wanting more, more knowledge of the era, the people, the history and the “facts”.

You become enveloped and seduced by Tina and many of her lovers. This graceful wondrous history radiates from the pages of the novel. She lives the history and struggles of many countries she makes her home for periods in her life. The essence of the book allows you to go back in time and reflect upon your childhood and see how far you have come; what discoveries decisions, changes have you made in your life for the betterment of society as a whole. Tinisima is small treasure found among mounds of books. It Zaps you into the reality of humanistic revolution life is and the critical views and struggles for an equality among humans.

Mexico-In-Film Series | September 7

2010 marks 100 years since the Mexican Revolution and 200 years since the movement for Independence. Cine+Mas SF is presenting this “Mexico In Film Series: ¡Vive el Cine Mexicano!” as part of the celebrations taking place in Mexico and around the world commemorating these events. This series celebrates Mexico’s contribution to cinema since the early years of film in conjunction with the San Francisco Public Library and the Consulate General of Mexico in San Jose and San Francisco. 12:00 -7:00 Location:Koret Auditorium, 100 Larkin St. San Francisco http://sfpl.org/index.php?pg=1002740101

Omar Rodriguez-Lopez ft. Le Butcherettes | September 13

Omar Rodriguez-Lopez from Mars Volta will be performing in a few cities. 8:00pm-10:00pm. Location: Great American Music Hall 859 O’Farrell St.  San Francisco, CA 94109. http://www.gamh.com/

Fiestas Patrias Festival | September 12

The rapidly growing and best known Fiestas Patrias Festival returns to Guadalupe Park in downtown San Jose. Fiestas Patrias Parade is a San Jose favorite and family tradition. Join us! 38,000 attendees expected. The celebration commemorates Mexico’s independence. Location: Discovery Meadows, San Jose. http://www.sjgif.org/

Fiestas Patrias | September 16

A celebration of many Latin countries! This is a free community celebration! Kids and families will love the hands on arts crafts area; everyone will enjoy trying authentic Mexican food from local restaurants, and even an authentic Flag Ceremony. Fiestas Patrias commemorates the independence from Spanish rule, and is celebrated by the following Latin America Countries: México, Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Chile, and Brazil (from Portugal). Traditionally, the celebration begins at midnight on September 15th with El Grito de Independencia. Location: Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway Street, Redwood City 94063 http://www.redwoodcity.org/events/cultural.htm

Gaytino! | September 16

Teatro Visión opens its 27th season with a one-night, special performance of Gaytino! -  the touching and hilarious father and son journey through decades of Chicano history. Son of famed composer and singer, Lalo Guerrero, Dan Guerrero’s story of courage and emergence takes the audience from East L.A. to Broadway musical theater stages and is a celebration of Gay Chicanismo. Teatro Visión co-presents this production at the Mexican Heritage Plaza with the Mexican Heritage Corporation. 8pm. Location: Mexican Heritage Plaza Theater, 1700 Alum Rock Avenue, San Jose 95116 http://teatrovision.org/teatrohome/

Pete Escovedo Latin Jazz Band | September 17

Escovedo, along with such seasoned bandleaders as Eddie Palmieri, Poncho Sanchez and Ray Barretto, is today viewed as one of the standard bearers of Latin jazz. “There are so many great young players who are carrying on the tradition,” he says happily. “My job, as I see it, is to keep on doing what Tito, Mongo, Cal, Willie and others would be doing if they were still with us today. At the same time, we need to experiment and expand the genre.” The younger guys will see to that. But for Escovedo right now things couldn’t be better. “The audience is there, and it’s worldwide,” he enthuses. Ticket Information: $30 2 alcoholic drink/appetizer minimum. Location: Angelica’s Bistro, 863 Main Street, Redwood City 94063 http://www.angelicasbistro.com/entertainment.htm

Pepa and Edgar from Mucho Axe – South American World Music | September 17

Enjoy vibrant melodies with mesmerizing lyrics sung by the gorgeous Pepa Quiroga to the fine guitar work of Mucho Axe band leader Edgar Macchiavello. The duo plays a broad range of genres, including Tango, Samba, Bossa Nova, Mambo, Reggae, Ska and more. Location: Morocco’s Restaurant, 86 N Market Street, San Jose 95113 http://www.moroccosrestaurant.com/events.html

Bark in the Park 2010 | September 18

When you take a dog for a walk, is the dog taking you for the walk? The answer to this question will be evident when dogs and their owners attend Bark in the Park 2010, the largest dog festival in the US. When over 3,700 dogs and 15,000 humans have enjoyed this family oriented, all-day event, it is clear who is taking the lead. Located in an expansive, tree-lined neighborhood park, this fun day features contests, music, celebrities, demonstrations, dog-related vendors and services and kids activities. Plus dogs. Lots of fun loving dogs. Location: Naglee Park Campus Community Association, San Jose. http://www.barksanjose.org/

San Francisco Giants presents: Fiesta Gigantes / Latino Heritage Night | September 18

An all-day celebration of Latino Culture. When you purchase a ticket for this special event, you get a seat in the Latino Heritage Section, access to special VIP sections during the pregame cultural festivities and a Jonathan Sanchez bobblehead. Location: AT&T Park San Francisco 24 Willie Mays Plaza San Francisco, California 94107. http://mlb.mlb.com/sf/ticketing/special_events/latino_heritage.jsp

The Mexican Heritage Corporation 19th Annual San José Mexican Heritage & Mariachi Festival | September 16 – 26

The Festival’s concerts will include artists such as: Los Tigres Del Norte, Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano, Intocable, Ozomatli, Los Tex Maniacs. The event will also present films, and cultural and educational events for the family. This celebration will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Mexican Revolution, with a special tribute to civil rights activist and Latino cultural icon, Dolores Huerta. Location: 365 South Market St. San José, CA 95113-2818. http://www.sanjosemariachifestival.com/

Adelita! The Women of the Mexican Revolution – A Musical Adventure of Mexico | September 25

This musical adventure is a dazzling theatrical piece created and directed by Dan Guerrero, named “One of the 25 Most Powerful Latinos in Hollywood” by Hispanic Magazine. Mr. Guerrero was selected to direct the production by Grammy Award winner Linda Ronstadt, who is the Festival’s Artistic Director. ¡Adelita! tells the gripping story of the women who fought in the Mexican Revolution — a story of bravery, loyalty, courage, love and passion that weaves music, dance, and historic visual projections to create a magical fable. This new musical features live performances by Mexico City chanteuse Eugenia Leon, and the world class Mariachi Cobre and Mariachi Los Camperos de Nati Cano. The event will also include a special celebrity tribute to civil rights activist and modern-day “soldadera” (female soldier) Dolores Huerta, who will be in attendance at this performance commemorating her 80th birthday. Ticket Information: $40-$125 Location: San Jose State Event Center Arena, 290 S 7th Street, San Jose 95192-0201 http://www.sanjosemariachifestival.com/

3rd Annual Redwood City Salsa Festival | September 25

Redwood City is going to be hot during its 3rd annual Salsa Festival! Three stages featuring Latin, Salsa and DJ Salsa music, plus a Family stage for kids and adults, will fire up Redwood City with music and dancing (including free Salsa lessons) all day long. Amateur and professional Salsa chefs will compete for fun, prizes, and Salsa Glory at the mouth watering and exciting Salsa Tasting & Competition, where the public takes part in the judging. Along with tasty salsa, local restaurants will also offer their delicious fares throughout the day. Featuring public Tequila tasting, heirloom tomato tasting, exciting hands-on art projects, chalk art and more, this family festival also hosts Art on the Square, where artists and artisans exhibiting their inspirational work will transform the streets surrounding Courthouse Square into an outdoor gallery. Redwood City’s Salsa Festival guarantees a fun-filled day of tongue-tingling salsa, great activities, music, entertainment, food, beverages, and a wonderful time for the entire family from noon until 8pm. Location: Courthouse Square, 2200 Broadway Street, Redwood City 94063 http://www.redwoodcity.org/events/salsafest.html

Altar Making Workshop | September 25

Prepare for Dia De Los Muertos 2010 by going to an Altar making workshop. There is $10 cost. All materials will be provided. It is Open to middle school youth and older (unless accompanied by an adult). 10:00am-12:00pm. Location: Mission Cultural Center 2868 Mission Street San Francisco, CA 94110-3908. www.missionculturalcenter.org

Taste of Morgan Hill | September 26 – 26

Enjoy the flavors of local restaurants, wineries, breweries, musicians and artisans in an exciting festival atmosphere. There will be two stages of live music; a Kids’ Zone with rides, crafts, and children’s entertainment; a custom and classic car show; a quilt show, and more! 10 am- 6pm. http://www.morganhill.org/tasteofmh/taste.htm

Lineas: New Modes of Contemporary Urbanism recent work by Tanya Aguiñiga and Teddy Cruz | Now – October 16

This two-person exhibition explores a triangulation of global borders, local resources, and sustainability. It features recent work by Tanya Aguiñiga and Teddy Cruz. This exhibition is held in conjunction with the 2010 01SJ Biennial — themed Build Your Own World — which takes place September 16-19. Location: MACLA, 510 S 1st Street, San Jose 95113. http://www.maclaarte.org/site/?cat=4

I remember my friend Maria Isabel preparing healthy snacks for her children. I was 20 years old and sometimes to make an extra buck I used to baby sit Sebastian and Gabriela.

Every time I was in her house, Maria Isabel used to say, “remember to give the kids these snacks.” Small plastic containers with all kinds of vegetables, and some dry fruit and some cereal. They were always happy and they grew up as normal kids without diabetes or any of those diseases that kids in America have nowadays.

Here are some tried-and-true methods for making kids shout, “Hooray for healthy SNACKS!”

Fruit Sticks: Stick melon balls, berries, pineapple chunks, and cubed peaches, pears or apples onto frilled toothpicks.

Sandwiches: Use crackers or cut-up bread or give the kids’ lunchmeat, and cheese, and a couple of miniature cookie cutters to make tiny, fun-shaped sandwiches.

Pizza Pita: Who can resist pizza. Use a whole pita as a pizza crust. Let them smear on a bit of bottled tomato sauce, add a light sprinkle of mozzarella cheese (or soy cheese), and then top with a bit of lean meat. Heat for a few minutes in the toaster, then cut into triangles for extra kid-appeal.

Dip/Dip/Dip: Kids love anything they can dip! A baggie full of carrot and celery sticks, cucumber and bell pepper slices, sugar snap peas and cherry tomatoes will disappear like magic if there’s a tub of dip to go with them. 


Baked Goods: Sneak fruits or vegetables into her diet when you bake them into yummy muffins or breads. Banana bread, zucchini muffins, and carrot bars are a few of our favorites for kids.

Laura Termini is the creator of the Natural, Organic & Latina concept. She has spent many years testing recipes, investigating and developing products and mixtures that all aim at helping each person live life well. Laura shares advice on losing weight, how to clean your home without damaging the planet, and much more in her website, blogs, and magazine columns.  http://www.naturalorganicaylatina.com

by Ariana Garcia

As U.S. Latinas we regularly have to negotiate our bi-cultural identities and find understandable ways to assert these to our communities. This was particularly challenging for me (and for countless others I’m sure) when I was a teenager. My 13 year-old, recently immigrated self was torn between demonstrating pride in where I came from and wanting very badly to blend in with my classmates. Thankfully the desire to blend in slowly waned as I started high school. I reconnected with Spanish and my adoration of Selena’s music and as the year progressed there was talk of the cornerstone of a Latina’s entrance into womanhood – the Quinceañera. I had the gist of the Quinceañera celebration: the birthday girl in a princess dress with a court of damas and chambelanes dancing the waltz in a big hall. In retrospect, I had only grazed a centimeter of the iceberg.

It turns out Quinceañera celebrations can be traced back to Aztec and Mayan ceremonies that marked the beginning of adult life for young men and women. Rather than eliminating the ritual completely, the colonization of Latin America fused it with European debutante balls. The European counterparts of the celebration were a chance to showcase a young woman’s eligibility for marriage, her virtues of innocence and purity and the social status her family held. What resulted was an elaborate tradition that begins with a thanksgiving mass followed by a party that includes a contingent of padrinos as well as various objects that commemorate the last instance of childhood (i.e. the last doll and the last flat shoes).

In retrospect, my Quinceañera was far from the traditional. Instead of a pastel colored dress, I wore a one-shouldered gold dress. I didn’t have a mass, nor did I have contingent of courtiers and padrinos. I did, however, have a mariachi, a waltz with my father and a night full of dancing to cumbias and hip-hop. Over time I’ve encountered many other Quinceañeras. Many were much more traditional than my own. I’ve also had acquaintances go as far as to tell me that I didn’t have a real Quinceañera – which led me to this investigation.

What determines the authenticity of our Latin customs in this country? This is always a daunting question because the truth is that while I was born in Mexico and lived there a good deal I am not the same type of Mexican as my cousins who have lived there all their lives. Moreover traditions are observed differently in each Latin American country so to assume that there is a precise template for celebration seems over the top. I prefer to see the changes that are made to a Quince as an evolution of culture rather than a faux pas.

One such evolution is Manuel Romero – an emerging singer and song-writer (soon to be superstar) in the Bay area. Manuel is an accomplished musician at 21 and one of his many skills is the ability to create a musical montage of both his Latino and American cultures. A telling example of this is his single: “Como Hace Quince Años,” a song he and his father wrote for his sister Chelsey’s Quinceañera. The lyrics to this song capture the true sentiment of that day: a family has watched their little girl grow up and they are now presenting her as a young woman. The message rings true to so many listeners, in fact, that Quinceañeras in the Unites states and even abroad are choosing Manuel’s song as part of the evening’s festivities.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Manuel and was quite curios to know what his point of view of a Quince is as a male and an older brother. He replied: “I think it’s cool … sometimes people don’t know exactly why they’re doing it but I think that just the fact that they respect the tradition. It’s something important you know. It’s something that definitely keeps your culture alive and I think that’s something you don’t want to ever lose value of because if you don’t know who you are then what are you going to do? Who are you if you don’t know? And also that it’s a positive thing to celebrate, becoming a young lady…”

He expressed my exact sentiments. It’s true often the Quinceañera is unaware of why certain things are included in a Quinceañera. What does stand true is the premise for the celebration. A Quinceañera is still our community’s way for a family to present their daughter as a young woman and for the celebrated young lady to assert herself as a Latina. The ceremony as we see it now in the U.S. (whether it’s with the d.j’s, hip hop routines, untraditional attire; or lacking all of the above) say, “Hello world, nice to meet you. I’m a U.S. Latina and this is how I like to celebrate my identity. Personally to me embracing the two cultures is a sign of womanhood in itself. Now just think how amazing it is that this celebration has survived the ravages of colonization, immigration, and acculturation – survival of the fittest at its best to say the least.

Ariana Garcia lives in San Jose, CA. Her passions are languages, good books and anything sweet. She currently works in the online advertising industry. She holds a B.A. in Communication from Saint Mary’s College of California.

Bibliography
Quinceañera: A celebration of Latina womanhood. (2002). Voices:The Journal of New York Folklore.

Caissie, R. M. (n.d.). Quinceaneras. Retrieved from Bellaonline.com: http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art40429.asp

Fiesta de Quince Años . (n.d.). Retrieved from Wikipedia: http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quincea%C3%B1era

La fiesta de quince años en México. (n.d.). Retrieved from Wikipedia: http://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/La_fiesta_de_quince_a%C3%B1os_en_M%C3%A9xico

Thoele, K. (2005). Children of the Aztecs. Retrieved from Historia Online: A Publication of the Epsilon Mu Chapter of Phi Alpha Theta and the Department of History at Eastern Illinois University: www.eiu.edu/~historia/archives/2005/Thoele.pdf

It’s always refreshing to see younger Latino generations live out their dreams. This statement is particularly true in regards to local sensation Manuel Romero. This dapper young man is an accomplished singer and songwriter; and he’s only twenty-one. Manuel’s love for music has been developing from a very early age (two-years old to be exact). Spurred by his family’s support and local success, Manuel is making strides to what will undoubtedly be a very successful performance career.

I had the pleasure of meeting Manuel and his family as he prepared to perform at San Jose’s Children’s Discovery Museum’s yearly candelaria event. He is no stranger to this event or others of its kind. His first competition took place during a 16th of September celebration in San Jose; where he won first place and opened many doors for his career. Since then Manuel has released three albums, the self-titled Manuel Romero (2002), Santa Maria (2007), and Orgulloso de Ser (2008). He was also a contestant and made it to the top 20 in NBC’s America’s Got Talent. He has and undoubtedly impressive resume and what’s all the more interesting is his unique performance style.

One need only watch Manuel perform to know that music is the air he breathes. His energy is contagious and truly unique. What really blew me away was his ability to blend not only different genres of music but also switch from English to Spanish in a seamless fashion. Manuel’s latest project is to give the traditional quinceañera song a face-lift. “Como Hace Quince Años” a song he and his father wrote for his sister’s quinceañera has gained Manuel recognition from Quinceañera magazine and Latina teens across the U.S.

I asked Manuel how he felt the rest of his music is revolutionizing the industry today. He responded:

“I think the diversity of my music. The ability to be able to combine, both cultures and styles of music that come from the Latin culture and music that comes from the culture here in America. Being able to combine that and go back and forth is important. Not a lot of artists can do it the way that I do it. I think that’s the most important thing, bringing something new to the table.”

AG: You’re also working on a new album correct?
Manuel: Yes, right now I’m writing new material for it. It’s going to be in Spanish and something new and different. I think the young crowd is going to be very into it but I think even the older crowd can enjoy it.

AG: Are you heading toward a pop feel?
Manuel: Yeah it’s a little bit of pop but not all electronic, you know, like modern radio. It’s crazy because I’m influenced by so many different genres. I can be singing mariachi and next thing I know I’m singing a country song. I haven’t’ really seen that versatility within a lot of artists and I’m hoping to bring something like that to the table. Sometimes it’s not the easiest thing to do to bring something so different out but slowly but surely it becomes your style and people like what you’re doing. I’m having fun with it.

It’s this fun and whole-hearted devotion to his art that make Manuel a performer to keep on your radar. How can we best help this up-and-coming star? By spreading the word about his talents; especially his song “Como Hace Quince Años.” You can find more information about Manuel and contact him through his website www.Manuel-Romero.com or by calling 408-942-7464. His music is also available for download through iTunes and DigStation.

Ariana Garcia lives in San Jose, CA. Her passions are languages, good books and anything sweet. She currently works in the online advertising industry. She holds a B.A. in Communication from Saint Mary’s College of California.

Salma Hayek Pinault/Dora the Explorer PSA for Nickelodeon’s “Beyond the Backpack” from NickPress on Vimeo.

She did it! She did it! Nickelodeon  celebrates the landmark 10th anniversary of the world’s most beloved Latina heroine, Dora the Explorer, with a brand-new, hour-long primetime TV movie, “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure,” premiering Sunday, Aug. 15, at 8:00 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon.  The TV movie, which follows Dora and Boots on a whirlwind journey through Magic Storybook Land and guest stars Rosie Perez as La Bruja (the witch), John Leguizamo as the Flying Monkeys and Hector Elizondo as the Wishing Wizzle.

Following the TV movie, at 9:00 p.m. (ET/PT), Nickelodeon will premiere the first-ever Dora 10th Anniversary documentary, a special 12-minute tribute executive-produced by Academy Award®- nominated Brett Morgen (The Kid Stays in the Picture) and directed by Debra Eisenstadt.  The documentary explores the series’ cultural and educational impact and features appearances by Dora and her friends, commentary from creators Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh Valdes and Eric Weiner, industry experts, real-life kids and celebrities including Anderson Cooper, Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Rosie Perez, Salma Hayek Pinault, Shakira, Soledad O’Brien, Sherri Shepherd and more.

“For the past 10 years, Dora the Explorer has been a pioneer – a symbol of empowerment, diversity and education,” said Brown Johnson, President, Animation, Nickelodeon. “She has captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world and will continue to inspire and entertain preschoolers for many years to come.”

Since launching on Nickelodeon Aug. 14, 2000, Dora the Explorer has emerged as a pop culture phenomenon and is currently the number-one rated preschool show on commercial television year-to-date. (Source: NMR, Live+7 Blended with Live+SD from 12/28/09-7/20/10).  Dora the Explorer, which can be seen in 151 markets and is translated into 30 languages, has been honored with awards including the Peabody, NAACP, Alma, Imagen, Latino Spirit, Gracie Allen, Parents’ Choice Award, the Television Critics Association Award and has received 16 Daytime Emmy nominations.

In “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure,” a twisting wind has blown Dora and Boots into Wizzle World, a land located in the Magic Storybook.  Dora and Boots can’t jump out of the Magic Storybook without first taking Dora’s crystal to the Wishing Wizzle (Hector Elizondo) so he can wish them back home in time for Dora’s birthday party with all her family and friends.  They set off an adventure to Wishing Mountain, but they better watch out for La Bruja (Rosie Perez) and her Flying Monkeys (John Leguizamo) who don’t like wishes and try to stop Dora and Boots.  In order to overcome the obstacles, Dora and Boots reflect back on past adventures to guide them along the way.

The premiere of “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure” will simulcast on Nick Mobile on Sunday, Aug. 15.  Additionally in August, a selection of fan-favorite Dora the Explorer episodes will be available on Nick on Demand and celebratory-themed episodes of Dora will be released across Nickelodeon’s Download-to-Own partners.  Fans can also visit www.nickjr.com for a sneak peek of “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure” on Monday, Aug. 2.  Created by Nickelodeon Home Entertainment and distributed by Paramount Home Entertainment, the “Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure” DVD will be available on Aug. 3, 2010.

Nickelodeon also is marking the 10th anniversary of Dora the Explorer, with a multi-year, multi-platform pro-social campaign titled “Beyond the Backpack.”  Named for Dora’s iconic backpack, “Beyond the Backpack,” champions overall school readiness for preschoolers as they prepare for the important adventure of starting school. 

In partnership with National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and other experts and leaders in school readiness, “Beyond the Backpack” provides parents with tools and resources that can help kids prepare for a well-rounded, positive experience as they enter kindergarten. The components of “Beyond the Backpack,” include dedicated PSAs; a web site (www.dora.beyondthebackpack.com) with customized resources and learning activities including a curriculum-focused checklist for parents to determine if their child is ready for kindergarten, links to partner organizations, financial resources and grants; fundraising activities; and community events.

Also, in support of “Beyond the Backpack,” Salma Hayek Pinault along with other celebrities will be featured in PSAs alongside Dora speaking about the campaign.  Hayek Pinault, Shakira, and Slash along with other celebrities are designing one-of-a-kind, Dora-inspired backpacks to be auctioned globally this summer.  One hundred percent of the U.S. proceeds will benefit the Children’s Defense Fund and international proceeds will go toward childhood education. 

Dora the Explorer, created by Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh Valdes and Eric Weiner, is a play-along, animated adventure series starring Dora (Caitlin Sanchez).  Dora is a seven-year-old Latina heroine whose adventures take place in an imaginative, tropical world filled with jungles, beaches and rainforests.  She explores her world just as preschoolers do everyday, and the show is designed to actively engage its audience in an interactive quest using a variety of learning techniques. 

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 31st year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon’s U.S. television network is seen in more than 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 16 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B).

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Maria Rizzo has been in the radio and marketing industry for several years, but she always had her heart and mind set on starting a cosmetic line. “I always admired makeup as a form of art,” says Maria. With a lot of dedication, commitment, and planning, she has turned that dream into a reality with the launch of Pachuca Cosmetics.

Maria chose the strong and impactful name, Pachuca Cosmetics, because it was reflective of the product line and a source of inspiration. “The line was inspired by this subculture defined by style,” says Maria referencing 1940s subculture that innovated what style should be in defiance of what America thought was acceptable at the time. She notes that a modern day Pachuca has the courage to be herself in a world that is constantly trying to make her something else.

Maria had to overcome many hurdles to start the makeup line from breaking into the cosmetic industry to conquering the fear inside of her that she should have started this venture earlier in her career. It has been about three years from the time that Maria started preparing for the business to where it is today. In the beginning, Maria took classes to become a certified make-up artist and also worked as a make-up artist part-time. She also looked at all resources from videos on Utube, reading books and biographies, and connecting with people in the industry. Maria also took about six months off from work to concentrate on market research, building the website, and creating the products.

Because Maria was a consumer first before she became a make-up artist, this perspective helped her create such a unique cosmetic line. Pachuca Cosmetics is a high quality product that is also good for the skin. The make-up has high quality pigment and is long-lasting. And a good majority of the products are mineral based so they are also healthy for the skin.

Pachuca Cosmetics consists of concealer, bronzer, blush, eyeliner, mascara, eye shadow, and much more. In addition to neutral palettes, Pachuca Cosmetics offers vibrant colors. While many women may be daunted by the thought of using bright eye shadow, Maria provides her customers a chance to learn how to use the products.

“People can get scared with bold colors but once they know how to apply the eye shadow people love it. I like to break down the color wheel to see which colors work well, for each individual” says Maria. “The beauty with brown eyes is dark eyes have so many options for color looks.”

Pachuca Cosmetics can be found online at http://www.pachucacosmetics.com/. And you can also book a “Beauty Lounge”. A “Beauty Lounge” is a private party where a make-up artist will show all the guests the techniques to apply make up. “It is a great way to empower the ladies on how to use the product. People leave with a confidence on how to apply the product.”

The past year has been great for Pachuca Cosmetics. In fact, Pachuca Cosmetics eyeliner was featured in the celebrity gift bags for the Latin Grammy Awards in 2009 and this upcoming year is looking even brighter. Maria will be working on a photo shoot in early August for a new Marketing Campaign. With Maria’s creativity and drive as the main force behind Pachuca Cosmetics, we are sure to see Pachuca Cosmetics in boutiques and stores soon.

The members of the grassroots San Jose women’s group Cihuatl Tlatocan have been busy finishing up the last minute preparations for the upcoming 5th Annual Frida Fundraising Event on Friday, July 30.  The event has many special activities and programs including performances by Sol y Luna Folklorico Dance Group, Kalizay Hip Hop, “Son Las Fridas” Jarocho Son and more.  Additionally, at the event the Ni Una Más Ni Aqui Ni Alla!(Not One More, Not Here, Not There) Scholarship for Latina Victims of Violence against Women will be celebrated along with the announcement of the Frida Kahlo Leadership Award. Other programming includes a silent auction, raffle, Frida look-a-like contest, and more.

The event was named after Frida and the first event was held on her birthday because the original organizers of the event identified with her.  “Frida deserves a celebration and Frida is an introduction to other mujeres lideres (woman leaders),” explains Elizabeth, the organizing chair for this year’s Frida event. “Frida is a popular icon that mujeres (women) can gage towards social justice.”

This event is just one of many programs that Cihuatl Tlatocan is responsible for. Cihuatl Tlatocan (Gathering of Women in Nahuatl, an indigenous language of Mexico) is a member organization of the MAIZ alliance whose goal is to develop leaders and use cultural advocacy in order to increase political participation in the San Jose Mexican community specifically among Women, Youth, LGBTQQI. Cihuatl Tlatocan focuses on fostering leadership to change the social conditions of Mexican Women using education, comadrismo, cultural and community action.  Through events and special programs such as the Frida Fundraiser, the organization seeks the liberation of Mexican women at an individual and community level in a collective struggle towards social change.  

 “We are all volunteers and it is really a grass roots organization. This fundraiser is what helps us do the work and sustain the work we have been doing” explains Elizabeth Gonzalez.

In addition to the Annual Frida Fundraiser, Cihuatl Tlatocan is responsible for the Ni Una Mas Scholarship, Hungry for Justice Campaign, International Womyn’s Day March and Festival, and much more. For information about Cihuatl Tlatocan or Maiz and information about how to get involved, visit www.alianzademaiz.org or email cihuatl.tlatocan@gmail.com

 Who: Cihuatl Tlatocan

What: 5th Annual Frida Kahlo Fundraiser $10 Donation at the door and free for children under 18 years old.  The event will take place Friday, July 30 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 pm

When: Friday, July 30  from 6 pm-8:30 pm

Where: Washington United Youth Center, 921 South First St., San Jose Ca 95110