fbpx
Connect with us

Blog

Hard Rock International Encourages All to “LOVE OUT LOUD” this Pride Month

Hard Rock Honors Partnership with Multi-Platinum, Genre-Bending Artist Halsey with $250,000 Donation to LGBTQIA+ Causes via the Hard Rock Heals Foundation

Published

on

with New Limited-Edition Retail and Series of Global Events Throughout June with HALSEY

HOLLYWOOD, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — Hard Rock International is celebrating its ongoing support of the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride Month, bringing to life the brand’s core founding mottos, “Love All, Serve All” and “All Is One,” while encouraging allies everywhere to “Love Out Loud.” Throughout the month of June, Hard Rock is releasing limited-edition merchandise and participating in special activations and fundraising efforts in support of Hard Rock Heals Foundation®, the charitable arm of Hard Rock®, along with local charities and nonprofit partners that work tirelessly to serve and elevate LGBTQIA+ communities.

Hard Rock International “Love Out Loud” partner Halsey designed two co-branded T-shirts as part of the Pride 2023 retail collection, which will benefit LGBTQIA+ charities such as Outright International and Human Rights Campaign via Hard Rock Heals Foundation. (Photo Credit: Sam Dameshek)

“At Hard Rock, acts of service and authentic inclusion are engrained in our brand DNA and everyday mottos, ensuring that all Team Members and guests at our properties are treated with love and respect,” said Stephanie Piimauna, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer at Seminole Hard Rock. “As part of our commitment, we will continue to demonstrate allyship and amplify LGBTQIA+ voices in our local communities and around the world.”

Partnership with Halsey

To kick off Pride 2023, Hard Rock has announced a partnership with GRAMMY®-nominated, multi-platinum, genre-bending artist, Halsey – known for pushing creative boundaries, while influencing and impacting beyond music by advocating for important causes such as the LGBTQIA+ community. To celebrate the partnership and Pride Month, Hard Rock has pledged a minimum of $250,000 to the Human Rights Campaign and Outright International, via the Hard Rock Heals Foundation.

As part of the Pride Retail Collection, Halsey, who is a queer artist themself, has designed two co-branded Hard Rock x Halsey Signature Series Pride Edition T-shirts. Additionally, as part of the “Love Out Loud” campaign, Hard Rock will be hosting a private performance at Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane, where the brand was founded. This VIP event will include a panel of notable guest speakers and an intimate performance by Halsey. Halsey will also donate special memorabilia to Hard Rock’s celebrated collection of more than 87,000 pieces, live during the event.

Following the private event at Old Park Lane, a special series of Halsey with String Ensemble Hard Rock Live shows will take place at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood (June 24), Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana (June 30) and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sacramento at Fire Mountain (July 2).

Limited-Edition Pride Retail Collection

In addition to the exclusive Halsey merchandise, Hard Rock is releasing a specially designed retail collection in honor of Pride Month, paying tribute to the brand’s “Love All, Serve All” and “All Is One” mottos. The uniquely designed, limited-edition merchandise, includes colorful Hard Rock t-shirts, bandanas, socks, cups, keychains and pins, of which a portion of proceeds will benefit LGBTQIA+ charities throughout the globe. The Pride 2023 retail collection is now available through July in stores and online at Rock Shops®.

Cafe Activations

Pride is a global celebration and declaration of love, which is why participating Hard Rock Cafes worldwide will be hosting a variety of local activations to proudly “Love Out Loud” alongside the LGBTQIA+ community. Activations will range from live performances to local Pride menus, customized playlists and more. Hard Rock Cafe will also participate as a sponsor in several Pride parades across the US and Europe, including those in New York City, London, Copenhagen, and Nice.

Love Out Loud Suites & Hotel Activations

Hard Rock Hotel properties around the world are partnering with notable LGBTQIA+ figures in their local communities to create exclusive experiences including one-of-a-kind curated suites, unique food and beverage offerings, entertainment experiences, Pride playlists, and community fundraising events.

In addition, Hard Rock Hotels is working with street artists known for integrating LGBTQIA+ themes in their art, to create meaningful paintings in select local communities where Hard Rock operates. 

More than 70 percent of the 87,000 pieces of authentic music memorabilia on display at Hard Rock properties are dedicated to LGBTQIA+ artists and iconic moments in music history. 

For additional information on how Hard Rock supports the LGBTQIA+ community and diversity, please visit www.hardrock.com/dei.aspx.  Information on Hard Rock Heals Foundation can be found at www.hardrock.com/heals-foundation.aspx.

About Hard Rock Heals Foundation®:

The Hard Rock Heals Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization and oversees all philanthropic outreach for Hard Rock International. Music is energy; it stirs emotion, inspires, connects, and restores. The Hard Rock Heals Foundation exists to improve lives through the power of music. Since its inception in 1971, Hard Rock International has brought people together through the power of music. We have developed partnerships with artists ranging from emerging to iconic in support of charitable efforts around the world. The Hard Rock Heals Foundation provides grants and assistance to individuals whose goal is to heal through the power of music. Partnerships with like-minded, music-centric organizations allow Hard Rock Heals Foundation the opportunity to improve lives and promote wellness.

About Hard Rock®:

Hard Rock International (HRI) is one of the most globally recognized companies with venues in over 70 countries spanning 290 locations that include owned/licensed or managed Hotels, Casinos, Rock Shops®, Live Performance Venues and Cafes. HRI also launched a joint venture named Hard Rock Digital in 2020, an online sportsbook, retail sportsbook and internet gaming platform. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia at more than 87,000 pieces, which are displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock Hotels has been honored by J.D. Power’s North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Study as the number one brand in Outstanding Guest Satisfaction for two consecutive years, and among the top Upper Upscale Hotels for four consecutive years. HRI became the first privately-owned gaming company designated a U.S. Best Managed Company by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal in 2021, and has since been honored threefold. Hard Rock was also honored by Forbes among the World’s Best Employers, as well as Best Employers for Women, Diversity and New Grads and a Top Large Employer in the Travel & Leisure, Gaming, and Entertainment Industry. In the 2022 Global Gaming Awards, Hard Rock was named Land-Based Operator of the Year for the second time in four years. In 2021, Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos received first place ranking in the Casino Gaming Executive Satisfaction Survey conducted by Bristol Associates Inc. and Spectrum Gaming Group for six of the last seven years. Hard Rock International currently holds investment grades from primary investment rating agencies: S&P Global Ratings (BBB) and Fitch Ratings (BBB). For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com or shop.hardrock.com.

SOURCE Hard Rock International

Daily News

Unveiling the Mysteries of Comet 12P/Pons Brooks: The Devil Comet’s Rare Celestial Show

Explore the enigmatic beauty of Comet 12P/Pons Brooks, the “Devil Comet,” as it graces our skies with rare eruptions and celestial displays.

Published

on

Comet 12P/Pons Brooks, known as the “devil comet,” is an intriguing celestial visitor that has captured the attention of astronomers and stargazers alike. This comet, with a diameter of about 10.5 miles (17 kilometers), follows a highly elliptical orbit around the sun, completing its journey approximately every 71 years. What sets 12P apart is its cryovolcanic nature – an ice volcano in space.

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks photographed by the Virtual Telescope Project facility in Manciano, Italy on March 2, 2024. (Image credit: Gianluca Masi/Virtual Telescope Project)

The icy shell of 12P occasionally erupts due to solar radiation, releasing a mix of ice and gas known as cryomagma into space. This process significantly expands the comet’s coma, the cloud of gas and dust surrounding its nucleus, making it appear brighter for a few days. In July 2023, astronomers witnessed 12P erupt after nearly 70 years, with subsequent eruptions occurring more frequently.

During earlier eruptions, the comet’s expanded coma gave it a unique appearance resembling demonic horns. However, recent observations show that these horns seem to have vanished, replaced by a distinctive green glow caused by high levels of dicarbon in its coma and tail, a rare phenomenon in comets.

For sky watchers in the Northern Hemisphere, viewing opportunities are optimal before April 21, when 12P makes its closest approach to the sun. Post this date, the comet will become visible to those in the Southern Hemisphere until the year’s end. To catch a glimpse, head to the countryside away from city lights. While visible to the naked eye, binoculars can enhance the viewing experience.


12P has surprised observers with unexpected brightness, including a rare flare that transformed its gas cloud into a horseshoe shape, earning it monikers like the Devil Comet or Millennium Falcon Comet. Additional flares have been detected, hinting at potential future surprises as the comet approaches Earth.

The cause of these flare-ups remains a mystery, with some astronomers speculating about rare volcanic activity on the comet’s surface. When planning a stargazing outing, target days closest to a new moon to avoid moonlight interference. Checking the weather forecast is essential to ensure clear skies for optimal viewing conditions.

Upon arrival at your stargazing spot, allow your eyes time to adjust to the darkness, especially if you’ve been exposed to bright screens. Patience is key, as celestial wonders like Comet 12P/Pons Brooks often reveal themselves gradually, rewarding those willing to wait.

As you gaze at this unique cosmic spectacle, reflect on the transient nature of comets and the vast mysteries of the universe they represent. The journey of Comet 12P serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty and unpredictability of celestial phenomena, inviting us to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos and contemplate our place within it.

https://www.space.com/watch-comet-12p-pons-brooks-zoom-past-andromeda-galaxy-livestream

Want more stories 👋
"Your morning jolt of Inspiring & Interesting Stories!"

Sign up to receive awesome articles directly to your inbox.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Continue Reading

Blog

The Controversy Surrounding Guaranteed-Basic-Income in Arizona: A Republican Stance

Arizona Republicans unite against guaranteed-basic-income programs, citing concerns over socialism and unearned payments.

Published

on

Arizona Republican lawmakers have taken a stand against the concept of guaranteed-basic-income programs with the recent passing of House Bill 2375. Despite the state grappling with high rates of homelessness, the Republican majority in the Arizona House of Representatives voted in unison to prohibit such programs. This decision has sparked a debate on the effectiveness and implications of such initiatives in addressing poverty and wealth disparity.

The bill’s sponsor, GOP Rep. Lupe Diaz, equated guaranteed-basic-income programs to socialism, labeling the payments as “unearned.” This perspective aligns with the broader Republican stance on welfare policies and government assistance. The legislation aims to block any scheme that provides individuals with regular cash payments without a prerequisite of work or training.

Basic-income programs have gained momentum nationwide as a potential solution to bridge the wealth gap and alleviate poverty. These initiatives offer financial support to specific demographics, often those living in poverty or near the poverty line, without imposing conditions on how the funds should be utilized. They stand in contrast to universal-basic-income programs, which distribute funds universally regardless of income levels.

The contentious nature of this bill underscores a fundamental ideological divide regarding social welfare and economic policies. While proponents view guaranteed-basic-income as a progressive step towards addressing systemic inequalities, opponents like the Arizona Republican lawmakers raise concerns about dependency, misuse of funds, and the encroachment of socialist ideologies.

As the bill progresses to the Arizona Senate, where Republicans hold a slight majority, the fate of guaranteed-basic-income programs in the state hangs in the balance. The outcome of this legislative battle will not only impact Arizona but may reverberate across the nation, shaping the discourse on poverty alleviation and social welfare policies.

The debate around guaranteed-basic-income programs reflects the broader societal conversation on economic justice and the role of the government in supporting vulnerable populations. While opinions may differ on the efficacy of such initiatives, it is imperative to critically assess their potential benefits and drawbacks in the pursuit of a more equitable society.

Source: Business Insider

https://www.businessinsider.com/arizona-gop-ban-guaranteed-basic-income-programs-homelessness-poverty-2024-2

Continue Reading

Blog

Crisis in the Texas Panhandle: Battling the Devastating Wildfires

“Wildfires ravage Texas Panhandle, prompting evacuations, power outages, and a nuclear facility shutdown. Community resilience shines amid the chaos.”

Published

on

A cluster of wildfires scorched the Texas Panhandle on Wednesday, including a blaze that grew into one of the largest in state history, as flames moved with alarming speed and blackened the landscape across a vast stretch of small towns and cattle ranches. (Feb 28) (AP video by Julio Cortez and Ty O’Neil) (AP production by Javier Arciga)

A series of wildfires wreaked havoc across the Texas Panhandle early Wednesday, unleashing chaos and destruction in their wake. The Smokehouse Creek Fire, now the second-largest wildfire in Texas’s history, has left a trail of evacuations, power outages, and a temporary shutdown of a nuclear weapons facility.

Governor Greg Abbott’s declaration of disaster for 60 counties underscores the severity of the situation. The cause of these ferocious blazes remains a mystery, as they rage through sparsely populated counties characterized by vast plains, cattle ranches, and oil rigs.

In the midst of this turmoil, residents like Adrianna Hill from Borger share harrowing tales of survival. Hill’s account of the fire encircling her town paints a vivid picture of the fear and uncertainty that gripped the community. With roads closed and flames closing in, the resilience of individuals like Hill and the protective force of nature itself offer a glimmer of hope in the face of adversity.

As firefighters battle against the infernos, the weather forecast brings a ray of optimism with cooler temperatures, reduced wind, and the possibility of rain on the horizon. Yet, the immediate reality remains dire in many areas, emphasizing the urgent need for support and solidarity in the ongoing fight against these catastrophic wildfires.

In times of crisis, it is in the unity of communities, the courage of individuals, and the dedication of emergency responders that resilience shines brightest. Let us stand together in support of those affected by this disaster, offering our thoughts, prayers, and assistance as they confront this formidable challenge in the Texas Panhandle.

Source: Associated Press

https://apnews.com/article/texas-panhandle-fire-evacuations-2cad37f14581bac74a3691969aaaf956

Continue Reading

Trending