Digital Media

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIGITAL MEDIA AND SCIENCEBLOGS.COM FORM STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

2009-12-04

WASHINGTON / NEW YORK (Dec. 3, 2009)--National Geographic Digital Media (NGDM) and ScienceBlogs.com today announced that they have formed a strategic partnership spanning technology, advertising, business and content development.

Through this partnership, Nationalgeographic.com and ScienceBlogs.com will create and exchange content through connected social media features, as well as work together to create new multimedia programming for both sites. ScienceBlogs.com will feature content from National Geographic bloggers and National Geographic explorers. The site also will have access to National Geographic's news resources and will significantly increase its exposure through NGDM's worldwide audience. NGDM in turn will feature content from ScienceBlogs.com and renowned SB bloggers on its award-winning site Nationalgeographic.com.

In addition, NGDM will lead advertising sales -- headed by Jim Hoos, VP of Digital Media Sales -- on ScienceBlogs.com, adding a vibrant social media platform to the portfolio and giving advertisers access to an audience of more than 2 million young, educated and digitally savvy readers. Under the terms of the agreement, NGDM will acquire a minority stake in ScienceBlogs, LLC, parent company of ScienceBlogs.com.

"ScienceBlogs.com shares our mission to create a fully comprehensive Web destination that allows users to explore, engage and exchange," said John Caldwell, NGDM president. "This partnership not only allows National Geographic to strengthen its leadership in the science and technology space, but it also allows NG.com to reach an extensive community of young and engaged users who are deeply immersed within it."

"We are thrilled to be teaming up with National Geographic, a brand we greatly admire and an organization that shares the values of the ScienceBlogs community. This partnership highlights SB's standing in social media and lays the foundation for growth and greater reach and recognition in the future," said Adam Bly, chairman of ScienceBlogs, LLC.

NGDM and ScienceBlogs.com's initial rollout will feature blog content and applications that highlight green, science and technology subject matter.

About ScienceBlogs
ScienceBlogs.com is the leading social media site in the science and technology category, with more than 130 acclaimed blogs, 11 content channels, a jobs platform and a fast-growing audience of 2.4 million unique visitors a month. ScienceBlogs.de, a German-language edition, launched in 2007 in partnership with Hubert Burda Media, and a Portuguese-language edition, ScienceBlogs.com.br, launched in 2008. ScienceBlogs, LLC, is a privately held company majority-owned by Seed Media Group (www.seedmediagroup.com).

About National Geographic Digital Media
National Geographic Digital Media is the multimedia division of National Geographic Ventures, the wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of the National Geographic Society, one of the world's largest educational and scientific nonprofit organizations, reaching more than
375 million people worldwide. At the forefront of the digital media revolution, NGDM publishes Nationalgeographic.com, delivering multimedia content to digital consumers. Nationalgeographic.com is the award-winning Web site of the National Geographic Society and attracts 13 million unique visitors a month. Nationalgeographic.com combines National Geographic's video, photography and maps with in-depth information and interactive features about animals, nature, destinations and cultures. Nationalgeographic.com's news service, National Geographic News, publishes daily stories about science and discoveries.

National Geographic Adventure Magazine Names 2009's Adventurers of the Year

2009-11-12

WASHINGTON (Nov. 12, 2009)--National Geographic Adventure magazine has selected 16 individuals as 2009's Adventurers of the Year, recognizing extraordinary achievements in exploration, conservation, action sports and humanitarian work. The honorees are featured in the December 2009/January 2010 "Best of Adventure" issue of the magazine (on newsstands Nov. 24). A robust and interactive Best of Adventure Web portal with more than 100 pages of content also highlights the 2009 Adventurer of the Year honorees with in-depth feature profiles, exhilarating videos and photo galleries. This year, for the first time, readers can cast a vote online for the honoree they believe best embodies the spirit of adventure. The winner will receive the first-ever "Adventurer of the Year: Readers' Choice Award." Voting, at www.ngadventure.com, begins today and ends Jan. 15, 2010. The Readers' Choice winner will be announced online on Jan. 19, 2010.

A group of 30 explorers, scientists, journalists and luminaries in the world of adventure served on an advisory board for the nomination of this year's top adventurers. The class of 2009 includes a BASE jumper, military veterans, an explorer, road trippers, a surfer, an astronaut, an ultra runner, an educator, a filmmaker and a scientist. They are:

-Khadija Bahram, supported by the aid organization International Rescue Committee, guided an educational program that stretches across five provinces in war-torn Afghanistan reaching more than 10,000 pupils, mostly girls, as well as disabled children.
-Stephen Bouey and Steven Shoppman crossed 69 countries and racked up more than 77,000 miles during a two-and-a-half-year road trip that circumnavigated the globe by road.
-Maya Gabeira, the only sponsored female big-wave surfer in the world, surfed the largest wave by a woman ever, landing a 45-footer at South Africa's Dungeons break.
-John Grunsfeld, known as NASA's "Hubble Repairman," braved hurtling space debris to pull off the repair to end all repairs: Working at zero gravity some 350 miles above the surface of the Earth, the astronaut restored sight to a half-blind Hubble.
-Marc Hoffmeister, an injured Iraq veteran, organized a team of climbers, including his wife, Gayle Hoffmeister, his friend, Bob Haines, and injured vets Jon Kuniholm, Matt Nyman and David Shebib, to attempt the dangerous West Buttress route of Denali in Alaska.
-Albert Yu-Min Lin organized a high-risk, high-stakes project into Mongolia's "Forbidden Zone" to search for the lost tomb of Genghis Kahn, using state-of-the art, cutting-edge mapping technologies.
-Dean Potter recorded the longest BASE jump ever -- 2 minutes and 50 seconds -- while wearing a wingsuit that allowed him to cover some 9,000 vertical feet and nearly four horizontal miles in distance.
-Louie Psihoyos assembled an "Ocean's 11"-esque crew to expose and end the annual slaughter of hundreds of dolphins for meat in Taiji, Japan, a story told in the award-winning film "The Cove."
-Diane Van Deren, survivor of a successful lobectomy, became the first and only woman to complete the Yukon Arctic Ultra, a 430-mile run across frozen tundra in the dead of winter.
-Katey Walter Anthony mounted an expedition to Siberia to seek out and measure beds of thawing permafrost -- a major source of methane gas, a greenhouse gas that is 25 times more potent than CO2, yet is not factored into most climate change models.

The National Geographic Adventure Adventurers of the Year feature is presented and sponsored by South African Tourism, South African Airways and Budweiser American Ale.

About National Geographic Adventure
National Geographic Adventure, winner of four National Magazine Awards, is the fastest-growing magazine in the outdoor category and the ultimate guide to the adventure lifestyle. Published eight times a year, with a rate base of 625,000, National Geographic Adventure has
2.8 million readers. It is available by subscription (800-NGS-LINE) and on newsstands in the United States ($4.99) and Canada ($6.99). Its editorial mission supports National Geographic's mission to inspire people to care about the planet. The magazine's Web site is www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure.

Young talent recognized in global photography competition

2009-11-12

Airbus rewards young talent with the announcement of the winners of its international biodiversity photography competition, "See the Bigger Picture." Eight youngsters were chosen from 2,597 entries from 99 countries and took inspiration from surrounding nature for their unique shots.

The international competition, launched in July through a partnership between Airbus, National Geographic and the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), part of the United Nations Environment Program, encouraged young people to engage in nature and consider the global loss of biodiversity. The competition was developed as part of Airbus' support for The Green Wave, a youth engagement program of the CBD to encourage young people to learn about the complexity of life on earth and its role in their future.

The winning images were captured by budding photographers from countries as widespread as Canada, Pakistan, Kenya and Estonia, and though divided by geography, all entrants showed a common love of photography, a passion for their natural environment and concern for their futures. Children of Airbus employees were also encouraged to enter and three internal prize winners were selected alongside the five global winners. A further 20 young people were awarded honorable mentions for their entries.

The eight talented winners will receive a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Washington, D.C., headquarters of National Geographic in December. The winners are Anthony Avellano, 12, from La Crescenta, California., USA; Chad Nelson, 12, from Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic; Alex Marttunen, 11, from Vantaa, Finland; Clemence Bonnefous, 8, from Tournefeuille, France; Vinzent Raintung, 8, from Halstenbek, Germany; Julia Kresse, 15, from Jork, Germany; Patryk Majchrzak, 16, from Ostrow Wielkopolski, Poland; Prerona Kundu, 11, from Lawrence, Kansas, USA.

Commenting on the competition, Tom Enders, CEO and president, Airbus, said: "The standard of entries from every corner of the world has been extremely impressive and a great reminder of the variety of living species we have around us. At Airbus, we are working with the CBD and using our global outreach to raise awareness of the need to preserve the variety of life on earth. Acknowledging our responsibility for the world of tomorrow, we are relentlessly pursuing eco-efficiency through innovative technologies, processes and products."

Executive Secretary of the CBD, Ahmed Djoghlaf, said: "We are delighted Airbus and National Geographic are working with us to inspire the next generation about the importance of protecting the rich biodiversity of the world we live in. This competition is helping to deliver that commitment, engaging and educating today's children in the task of safeguarding the planet."

The world is losing biodiversity at an ever-increasing rate as a result of human activity. "This is a global problem that needs to be addressed today if we want to retain the diversity of the natural world for the generations of tomorrow. It is about the food that we eat and the air that we breathe," said See The Bigger Picture ambassador and world-renowned National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore.
Sartore was a member of a global panel of judges who were impressed by the range of subjects that engaged the entrants. Photographs featuring insects, animals, plants and landscapes were submitted by photographers as young as 6 years old.

To view the winning entries and learn more about how to get involved in The Green Wave, visit www.seethebiggerpicture.org. A gallery of the winning photographs can also be viewed at the ftp site http://ftp.nationalgeographic.com/pressroom/see_bigger_picture.

username: press | password: press

-- ends -

Notes to editors

"See The Bigger Picture" honorable mentions:
Afton Carpenter, 14, Gilbert, Arizona, USA
Julian Kiesel, 12, Nyack, New York, USA
Samantha Shapiro, 14, Chappaqua, New York, USA
Alex Sorensen, 14, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
Joshua Hartmann, 12, S. Surrey, British Columbia, Canada
Chaitra Godbole, 14, Pune, India
Arjun Shankar, 16, Chennai, India
Sachin Vijayan, 13, Thodupuzha, India
Vince Ellison B. Leyeza, 11, Laguna, Philippines
Eleanor Bennett, 13, Stockport, United Kingdom
Malik Babi, 6, Beauzelle, France
Lénaїg Allain-Le Drogo, 12, Saint Luce Sur Loire, France
Richard Guerre, 9, Blagnac, France
Zoe Hamelin, 16, Paris, France
Diego Adrados, 13, Tarifa, Spain
Sara Cuenca Uñac, 13, Alicante, Spain
Mariló Moreno Ruz, 15, Cádiz, Spain
Jonas Harms, 16, Norderstedt, Germany
Marvin Pulter, 14, Germany
Tobias Abrahamsen, 16, Sarpsborg, Norway

Competition statistics:
Total of 2,597 entries from 99 countries. This includes 247 entries from children of Airbus employees in 6 countries.
Over half of the photographs taken were of land-dwelling animals, and the greatest proportion of these were insects.
Some children experimented with underwater shots requiring a high level of skill.
Just over 40% of entrants took photographs at home, showing awareness that biodiversity can be found in our own back yard.

The Green Wave:
The Green Wave is a global biodiversity campaign to educate children and youth about biodiversity.
The CBD is a United Nations treaty promoting the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity
2010 is the United Nations' International Year of Biodiversity. On May 22, 2010 (The International Day of Biodiversity), as part of The Green Wave initiative, young people are invited to plant a tree at 10 a.m. to celebrate biodiversity. This will create a wave of tree planting as the activity passes through each time zone across the world.
Photos and stories from the moment can then be uploaded to The Green Wave website to create a virtual wave on the Internet
Visit http://greenwave.cbd.int.

Airbus specific notes:
Airbus believes that growth in air travel is a global need and that the essential social and economic benefits derived from a more connected world can still be unlocked and deliver a greener world, if everybody plays their part
Airbus acknowledges the 2% that aviation contributes to global man-made CO2 emissions, but believes that it also has a responsibility to support others in tackling the remaining 98% of CO2 emissions. Deforestation alone, for example, generates nearly 20% of man-made CO2, so Airbus is working with the CBD, and using its global outreach to raise awareness of the importance of the need to preserve the variety of life on earth
This is why it has committed to support the CBD's The Green Wave initiative

November 2009: National Geographic Adventure — The 25 Best New Trips in the World

2009-10-20

Twenty-Five Best New Trips — Somewhere out there is a continent you can cross on horseback, and a Sherpa city where treks are led by the strongest hikers on Earth. Perhaps you want to track wolves in Slovakia's Carpathian Mountains or navigate Class V rapids in rural Bolivia to deliver aid to local communities. Impossible? Hardly. National Geographic Adventure's 10th annual trip guide maps the 25 best new trips for 2010, putting the world's far corners well within reach. And after contacting more than 200 travel companies, writer Claire Martin discovered one time-honored truth time and again: Trips that give back often yield the coolest travel experience. "Companies are starting to 'get' voluntourism, and to do it in a way that is much more authentic and goes deeper," says Martin. Even better, "These are often the trips with the most bang for your buck." Page 49.

Nepal's New Path — A strong case can be made for Nepal as the birthplace of the adventure travel movement. Nowhere else on the planet boasts such dramatic mountain scenery (Everest and Annapurna) and such a crazy confluence of religions and cultures (Hinduism mixed with Buddhism mixed with a variety of local isms). National Geographic Adventure Contributing Editor James Vlahos returns from a five-week trek on the newly developed 1,600-mile Great Himalaya Trail — your everyday hiking path, if you consume a diet of red meat, anabolic steroids and nails. And the trail, stupefyingly grand and astounding to even the most well-traveled visitors, just might help unify a country healing from 10 years of civil war. Page 58.

Here Be Dragons — Strictly speaking, there are no rules against camping in Indonesia's Komodo National Park. It's just that most people think twice about pitching a tent on an island patrolled by marauding, man-eating lizards. National Geographic Adventure Contributing Editor Tom Clynes sleeps out — and lives to tell of the last place on the planet where reptiles still rule. Page 66.

Norway Takes Off — Watch your back, Chamonix. There's a new European action mecca in the making: Norway. National Geographic Adventure West Coast Editor Steve Casimiro tackles the Scandinavian hotbed one heli-bike, climb, paddle, dogsled and surf at a time. Page 72.

Next Weekend: The Snow Report '10 — If you're now just sharpening your edges and heating up the wax, chances are you've already missed the first turns of the 2010 ski/snowboard season. But fear not, this winter is shaping up to be a fierce one. National Geographic Adventure's annual snow report rounds up 16 places where the perfect powder day awaits. Plus: Powder, crud, groomers or bumps. This year's hottest skis and boards can handle anything you throw at them. Page 30.

Adventure on the Web (ngadventure.com) — Hone your outdoor skills with Adventure's new how-to videos featuring National Geographic correspondents. Find dozens of products field-tested by Adventure editors and hundreds more in our Gear Guide. Get the latest news on adventure travel destinations, trips and trends. Learn West Coast Editor Casimiro's photography secrets in a technical tutorial online. Page 12.

*Contact Ethan Fried if you have questions, need additional information or would like to schedule an interview with a National Geographic Adventure expert.

National Geographic Adventure, winner of four National Magazine Awards, is the fastest-growing magazine in the outdoor category and the ultimate guide to the adventure lifestyle. Published eight times a year, with a rate base of 625,000, National Geographic Adventure has 2.5 million readers. It is available by subscription (800-NGS-LINE) and on newsstands in the United States ($4.99) and Canada ($6.99). Its editorial mission supports National Geographic's mission to inspire people to care about the planet. The magazine's Web site is www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure.

SINA CORPORATION AND NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO DEVELOP CHINESE WEB SITE

2009-09-01

WASHINGTON (Sept. 1, 2009)—National Geographic Digital Media (NGDM) and Sina.com announced today they have formed a partnership to cooperatively deliver National Geographic-branded content, including photographs and news stories, translated into Chinese and tailored specifically toward a Chinese audience, through Sina Corporation's online audience at www.sina.com.cn.

NGDM and Sina are jointly developing the Chinese-language Web site http://geo.sina.com.cn. National Geographic will provide content covering wildlife, natural history, travel and culture, science, space and the environment. Through the Web site, Chinese audiences will have access to National Geographic material that highlights local Chinese conditions and customs around the world.

"China surpassed the U.S. in Internet-enabled households last year, making it the largest country of Web users in the world," said John Caldwell, president, NGDM. "We welcome the opportunity for National Geographic's content and its mission of inspiring people to care about the planet to reach this audience, which is hungry for compelling and quality stories and images from around the world. National Geographic's partnership with Sina is a powerful complement to the Society's existing media endeavors in both television and print, and we look forward to working with Sina to bring to the Chinese audience content that fuels interest, excitement and caring about our world and all that is in it."

Chen Tong, chief editor of Sina.com, said "The launch of the jointly developed Web site with NGDM will not only offer high-quality global geographic information to Internet users in China but also further consolidates Sina's advantages in content resources. Sina.com will continue to provide Chinese Internet users with the best content and Internet experience."

National Geographic magazine is published by Trends in China, and the National Geographic Channel program "Global Geographic" is broadcast on Chinese television.

National Geographic Digital Media is the multimedia division of National Geographic Ventures, the wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of the National Geographic Society, one of the world's largest educational and scientific nonprofit organizations. At the forefront of the digital media revolution, NGDM publishes Nationalgeographic.com, delivering multimedia content to digital consumers. Nationalgeographic.com is the award-winning Web site of the National Geographic Society, and attracts 13 million unique visitors a month. Nationalgeographic.com combines National Geographic's video, photography and maps with in-depth information and interactive features about animals, nature, destinations and cultures. Nationalgeographic.com's news service, National Geographic News, publishes daily stories about science and discoveries.

Sina is a valued information provider serving Chinese communities and Chinese speakers worldwide. Sina owns several local Web sites, and its aim is to best serve Chinese people, whether they are within or outside of China. It has five main businesses: providing news and content (SINA.com), providing added-value services and wireless service (SINA Mobile), providing Web 2.0 services and games (SINA community), Sina search and enterprises service (SINA.net), and an online shopping service (e-commerce). The above services include local Web sites that add value through search engine and content searches, interest-based and community-building channels, free and paid e-mail service, blogging, video and film, Web games, information channels, pay services, e-commerce and enterprise IT solutions. Sina's main revenue comes from advertising sales and distributing added-value services, as well as revenue from search engines and other services.

National Geographic Kids — September 2009

2009-08-27

The Secret of the White Lion -- Exotic and majestic, white lions are beloved by many people around the world. But these big white cats -- merely a color variation of regular lions rather than a separate species -- are controversial. White lions are the result of a rare color gene mutation. Not many lions carry the mutation, and in the wild, white lions are extremely rare. However, breeders interested in the animals' moneymaking potential know how to create more white lions, which is causing concern and debate. White lions continue to exist only because people inbreed close relatives, which can result in serious health problems -- problems that could spread to other captive lions or wild lions they may breed with. Plus: Free white lion pullout poster. Page 14.

Twenty Cool Facts About Money -- National Geographic Kids shares 20 cool things about American money and its history, including: A quarter's edge has 119 grooves; the Bureau of Engraving and Printing produces approximately 38 million bills a day with a face value of more than $274 billion; if you placed $2.2 million in pennies side-by-side, they'd stretch from New York City to San Francisco; when the first U.S. Mint opened in Philadelphia, it was guarded by a dog the government bought for $3 in 1793; and only two current U.S. bills do not feature presidents -- $100 (founding father Benjamin Franklin) and $10 (Alexander Hamilton, the first treasury secretary). Check out all the fun facts. Page 12.

National Parks Trivia Challenge -- The United States is home to 58 national parks that are visited by more than 61 million people every year. National Geographic Kids tests your national park knowledge with an eight-question, multiple-choice trivia challenge. What funny name is used for the bizarre, totem-pole-shaped rock formations found at Bryce Canyon? According to legend, what Everglades animal did early sailors mistake for a mermaid? What Grand Teton animal would win a 50-yard dash? See how many answers you know. Page 26.

Space Vacation -- Thrill seekers have long traveled the Earth in pursuit of unforgettable vacations. But those who crave the ultimate in extreme adventure will soon be able to leave the Earth behind. National Geographic Kids explores five out-of-this-world vacations that scientists believe will be possible someday. Play zero-gravity laser tag on an orbital resort. Ride an elevator 22,000 miles straight up to space. Take a planetary sightseeing cruise. Scale Mars' Olympus Mons, the highest mountain in the solar system. Go beyond our solar system on an alien planet safari. Page 20.

National Geographic Kids, a multitopic, photo-driven magazine for 6- to 14-year-olds, empowers its readers by making it fun to learn about the world. Its numerous industry awards include Periodical of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from the Association of Educational Publishers. Published 10 times a year, National Geographic Kids has a circulation of 1.2 million and is available by subscription for $19.95 a year and on newsstands for $4.99 a copy. Its Web site is at kids.nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LITTLE KIDS LAUNCHES ONLINE littlekids.nationalgeographic.com

2009-08-19

WASHINGTON (Aug. 19, 2009)—The award-winning magazine National Geographic Little Kids today launches a digital extension of the publication at littlekids.nationalgeographic.com. Like the magazine, the companion Web site is aimed at preschoolers ages 3 to 6 and their parents, and is packed with age-appropriate ways to digitally interact with young children and excite them about the natural world.

In addition to games, crafts, recipes, science experiments and videos, the site, debuting in time for back-to-school, features a variety of fun and engaging resources to help parents talk to their children about the first day of school. Special content includes seven video clips where mommy and daddy animals "teach" young animals important skills. Helpful tips for mom and dad on how to ease preschool jitters are provided.

The parents' companion feature includes "Parent Tips" to help guide curious preschoolers toward safe and fun exploration of the world. As the site grows, the Little Kids team plans to create a vibrant online community for parents to share ideas and resources.

"We're excited about the launch of our Little Kids Web site," said Michelle Sullivan, NG Kids digital media executive producer. "Our goal is to build on the great success of National Geographic Little Kids magazine by creating an age-appropriate online experience for preschoolers and parents, where they can play, learn and explore together. We want to help develop skills to create a generation of active and engaged digital learners."

Littlekids.nationalgeographic.com is the second National Geographic kids magazine Web site. Kids.nationalgeographic.com is the Web site for National Geographic Kids magazine, a publication for the elementary school-aged set. Aimed at 6- to 12-year-olds, this Parents' Choice Recommended Site Winner contains hundreds of videos, interactive features, games, activities, blogs and current-event feature news bites. It also features authentic kid-to-kid storytelling by real kids across the globe, bringing the world to kids' laps via their laptops.

Littlekids.nationalgeographic.com and Kids.nationalgeographic.com are the online destinations for all the quality kids content produced by National Geographic and tied to the mission of inspiring kids to care about the planet — and the people, places and animals on it. From a brand trusted by both parents and educators, littlekids.nationalgeographic.com and kids.nationalgeographic.com are two of the only true content-based Web sites for kids.

Nationalgeographic.com is the award-winning Web site of the National Geographic Society and attracts 13 million unique visitors a month. Nationalgeographic.com combines National Geographic's video, photography and maps with in-depth information and interactive features about animals, science, nature, the environment, destinations and cultures. Nationalgeographic.com's news service, National Geographic News, publishes daily stories about science and discoveries around the globe.

National Geographic Digital Media Appoints Robert Michael Murray Vice President of Social Media

2009-08-10

WASHINGTON (Aug. 10, 2009)—Robert Michael Murray has been named vice president of social media, National Geographic Digital Media (NGDM). His appointment was announced by Ted Prince, COO of National Geographic Ventures and executive vice president of operations for National Geographic Global Media. Murray, who reports to NGDM president John Caldwell, is responsible for developing strategies that harness all existing and emerging social media platforms to effectively engage with NationalGeographic.com users and to transmit National Geographic-curated stories and the mission of the society across all digital mediums.

"All media is social in the current climate and media-consumption culture," said Caldwell. "National Geographic is an inherently social company with an ongoing goal to connect people with stories and visuals. Robert will bring clarity to that effort and amplify the Society's voice when it comes to creating a cohesive and engaging user experience across myriad platforms and international audiences."

An accomplished digital media strategist, Murray joins NGDM with more than 15 years of experience blending strategy, creative storytelling and emerging technologies to help commercial, political, nonprofit and higher-education entities meet institutional objectives, create brand loyalty and build meaningful relationships with global audiences.

Murray's previous work includes building breakthrough emerging technology and social infrastructure for Georgetown University, leading creative and technical production for live and VOD Web casts of high-profile events for such world leaders and politicians as then-Sen. Barack Obama, former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair, then-Chairman of the Interim Administration of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai, former first lady Laura Bush and Sen. John Kerry.

Murray was also a lead architect of the development and branding of a public Web site and media extranet for the 2000 Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles and has served as technical liaison for television programs including "West Wing," "Hardball" and "Mad Money."

About National Geographic Digital Media
National Geographic Digital Media is the multimedia division of National Geographic Ventures, the wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of the National Geographic Society, one of the world's largest educational and scientific nonprofit organizations, working to inspire people to care about the planet. Holding many top industry awards, NGDM publishes Nationalgeographic.com; produces short-form video for broadband markets; manages marketing and content partnerships across broadband, mobile, gaming and other consumer digital platforms; and provides video and film footage to commercial, theatrical, educational and other digital footage markets.

National Geographic Announces Fourth Annual International Photography Contest

2009-08-06

WASHINGTON (Aug. 6, 2009)--National Geographic readers around the world are invited to take part in the 2009 National Geographic International Photography Contest. Readers of National Geographic's English-language editions in eight countries as well as readers of 20 of the magazine's international local-language editions are eligible to participate. The international grand-prize winners will receive a trip to National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C., and their winning entries will be published in all participating editions of National Geographic magazine. Winning entries from each territory will be featured in their local editions of National Geographic magazine.

English-language-edition readers in Australia, Canada, India, New Zealand, Republic of Ireland, South Africa, the United States and the United Kingdom are eligible to enter up to a total of six photographs across three categories: People, Places and Nature. Entries should be submitted electronically to www.ngphotocontest.com. The contest began Wednesday, Aug. 5, and ends Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, 11:59 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time (ET). Photos can be black-and-white or color, shot with a digital camera or with conventional film, and must be submitted digitally. Each entry consists of an entry form, a single image and an entry fee. The entry fee is U.S. $12 per photo for entries received before 11:59 p.m. ET Oct. 15, 2009, and $22 per photo for entries received between Oct. 16 and Oct. 31. For details and official contest rules, visit www.ngphotocontest.com. Void where prohibited.

English-language-edition entries will be judged at National Geographic headquarters by a panel of three judges: National Geographic staff photographer Mark Thiessen; design editor of the international editions of National Geographic magazine Darren Smith; and White House photo editor Jenn Poggi. First-place category winners of the English-language-edition competition will win a digital camera kit.

The participating international local-language editions will submit their winning entries in each category to National Geographic headquarters to be judged alongside the winning English-language entries by Thiessen, Smith and Poggi. The judges will announce three international grand-prize winners in December 2009.

"We are thrilled to continue our annual photography contest," said David Griffin, National Geographic's director of photography. "The work we have been seeing in recent years is truly astounding and speaks to the truth that photography is a worldwide, universal language — one that everyone can appreciate and enjoy."

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 370 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

National Geographic Adventure Survival Guide '09 -- August/September 2009

2009-08-03

On Newsstands August 4, 2009

Eight Black Swans -- When the unexpected happens, it pays to be prepared. For an adventure-style "Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook," National Geographic Adventure came up with eight colossal disasters -- a tsunami hitting the Northwest; the West running dry; an avalanche striking inbounds; megafires burning hotter and longer in the backcountry; being trapped overseas by a pandemic; America's power grid crashing; getting caught in bandit cross fire; the GPS system winking out -- and asked the experts what to do to get out of harm's way. See how any one of these "black swans," low-probability, high-impact events, could happen, and how to survive. Plus: Adventure interviews John Hillcoat, director of "The Road," the end-of-days thriller due in theaters this fall, based on Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Page 56.

One Rogue Wave -- What started as a weekend fishing trip in ideal conditions quickly turned from bad to worse. Already clinging to an overturned boat, seven fishermen watched as the ocean rose up in a way no one could have predicted. For the next 18 hours, adrift in the Atlantic, the men waged a desperate battle against time, hypothermia and the ocean itself. National Geographic Adventure pieces together the story of this survival epic. Page 48.

Going Back In -- Twelve years ago, two strangers formed an unlikely bond during a wilderness course in Wyoming. Then their friendship was cut short by a fatal accident. Actor Andrew McCarthy returns to the scene of the tragedy that changed his life forever. Page 66.

The Wild Bunch -- The National Wild and Scenic Rivers network protects the United States' most pristine waterways -- and its greatest river trips. It's an entire park system that can be explored by boat -- 166 national parks flying under the radar. Paddle in hand, National Geographic Adventure rafts one of the best, Oregon's Rogue River. Plus: Five more not-to-be-missed whitewater rides on the Salmon River (Idaho), Rio Chama (New Mexico), the Kern (California), the Chattooga (Georgia and South Carolina) and the Wolf (Wisconsin). Page 72.

Special Report: Everest Overshadowed -- "Everest season" is the time when all eyes zero in on the world's highest mountain to see what records, hijinks, tragedies and personal bests will ensue. Yet the most striking feature of this Everest season is that the most notable climbing did not happen there. Instead, many of the world's top climbers quietly eschewed Qomolangma's well-trodden routes for desperately hard first ascents on peaks far from the fray. Page 14.

The Big Trip: British Columbia -- The 2010 Winter Olympics will make British Columbia a superstar, but savvy adventurers know the Canadian province has already taken the gold as an outdoors outpost. National Geographic Adventure details an action plan north of the border. Page 40.

*Contact Ethan Fried if you have questions, need additional information or would like to schedule an interview with a National Geographic Adventure expert.

National Geographic Adventure, winner of four National Magazine Awards, is the fastest-growing magazine in the outdoor category and the ultimate guide to the adventure lifestyle. Published eight times a year, with a rate base of 625,000, National Geographic Adventure has 2.5 million readers. It is available by subscription (800-NGS-LINE) and on newsstands in the United States ($4.99) and Canada ($6.99). Its editorial mission supports National Geographic's mission to inspire people to care about the planet. The magazine's Web site is www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC INTRODUCES DUET TRAVEL PHONE WITH DUAL SIM CAPABILITY

2009-06-17

WASHINGTON (June 17, 2009)—National Geographic has introduced the National Geographic Duet Travel Phone, designed specifically for the needs of the international traveler. The new handset supports two SIM cards and offers additional features useful for travelers, such as Bluetooth, a camera, FM radio, television and 1GB storage card. The Duet comes loaded with National Geographic content, including ringtones, wallpapers and travel-related videos from the National Geographic Channel.

The Duet includes National Geographic's pay-as-you-go National Geographic Travel SIM card, allowing affordable calling in 185 countries, free incoming calls in more than 80 countries and 30 minutes of outgoing call credit (for most countries). Users have the option of inserting another SIM card in the phone and having a secondary number and service. This option is perfect for those who need to retain their current phone number while overseas or who want a secondary number dedicated for business or family. The service also offers 24/7 toll-free U.S.-based customer service directly from the handset via a three-digit access number.

The National Geographic Travel SIM card can be purchased separately from the Duet phone for those travelers who already own a cell phone that is compatible for international use.

"Our service offers comparable international coverage to carriers such as Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T, but at a fraction of the cost. In today's economic environment, there is good reason to utilize National Geographic's international cellular service when traveling," said Sebastian Harrison, president of Cellular Abroad Inc. "The unique features of the new Duet handset perfectly complement the equally unique qualities of the service."

The National Geographic Travel Phone is available online through CellularAbroad.com, Amazon.com, Expansys-usa.com and other select retailers.

About National Geographic
The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 360 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program promoting geographic literacy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

About Cellular Abroad
Cellular Abroad has been operating since 2001 and has become the most popular choice among international travelers for cellular service. With offices in Playa del Rey, Calif., and in Italy, Cellular Abroad has helped tens of thousands of travelers obtain affordable and reliable cellular service while traveling abroad. Cellular Abroad has an outstanding record of customer service and is committed to making international cellular service available to everyone. Visit Cellular Abroad at www.cellularabroad.com or call (800) 287-5072.

National Geographic Adventure Explores Top National Parks

2009-06-16

WASHINGTON (June 16, 2009) -- National Geographic Adventure: June / July 2009 issue on newsstands June 16, 2009.

America's Ultimate National Parks -- The grandest canyon, the hottest desert and the tallest forest -- all storied landscapes protected by America's National Park Service. National Geographic Adventure Editor at Large Robert Earle Howells lays out tips, tricks and detailed action plans for nine of the country's greatest wildlands that are sure to make for an unforgettable summer. Hike the High Sierra Camps of Yosemite; enjoy crowd-free camping on the Grand Canyon's North Rim; wander through groves of virgin deciduous forest and seas of wildflowers in the Great Smoky Mountains; set up a base camp to explore Death Valley, the hottest, driest, lowest and largest national park in the contiguous United States; embrace true Alaskan backcountry -- think glaciers, coastal forests, tundra and mountain ranges -- at Lake Clark; enjoy heart-stopping scenery and alpine inspiration at Glacier National Park; go on an American safari through the 2-million-plus acres of Yellowstone; stand in awe of the planet's tallest trees in Redwood national and state parks; and feel the sobering power of surf, fog and waves, with gray whales, bald eagles, sea otters and sea lions as companions, in Olympia National Park. Plus: Adventure heads out on the trail with Ken Burns, director of the upcoming PBS series "The National Parks: America's Best Idea." Page 48.

Cat Fight -- Squeezed for space and targeted by poachers, India's tigers have reached a tipping point. When 22 tigers were discovered missing from Ranthambhore National Park, the forest service denied there was a problem. But deep in the world's most celebrated tiger sanctuary, an unlikely hero has emerged. Adventure Contributing Editor Paul Kvinta tracks the smart, driven, God-fearing vegetarian with Jack Bauer tendencies. Page 60.

The Longevity Expedition -- Dan Buettner, former world-record cyclist and author of the best-selling book " The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who've Lived the Longest," is traveling the globe gleaning longevity secrets from the world's healthiest humans. One lesson the adventurer didn't expect to learn: Living long may mean staying put -- and planting a garden. Page 76.

More Adventure, Less Money -- The economic crash changed everything -- including the landscape of adventure travel. Now more than ever, outfitters and lodge owners will work to deliver the trip of a lifetime at an affordable price. Play it smart with 10 ways to capitalize on the new economy of adventure. Page 71.

iPhone Travel Apps -- West Coast Editor Steve Casimiro sorts through the more than 2,000 available apps for the travel inclined to find the eight best handheld-helpers that are changing the way travelers interact with the world. Page 22.

*Contact Ethan Fried if you have questions, need additional information or would like to schedule an interview with a National Geographic Adventure expert.

National Geographic Adventure, winner of four National Magazine Awards, is the fastest-growing magazine in the outdoor category and the ultimate guide to the adventure lifestyle. Published eight times a year, with a rate base of 625,000, National Geographic Adventure has 2.5 million readers. It is available by subscription (800-NGS-LINE) and on newsstands in the United States ($4.99) and Canada ($6.99). Its editorial mission supports National Geographic's global mission to inspire people to care about the planet. The magazine's Web site is www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GAMES ANNOUNCES LINEUP FOR CONSOLE, PC, ONLINE AND MOBILE PLATFORMS

2009-05-30

WASHINGTON (June 1, 2009)—National Geographic Games (NGG) is unveiling a slate of new, high-quality, branded games for the PlayStaion3, Xbox and Nintendo Wii consoles, online, mobile and virtual world markets, via partnerships with premier game publishers and developers Black Bean Games, Smart Bomb Interactive and RealGamesTM, the casual games publishing arm of RealNetworks®, Inc. The announcement was made today by Paul Levine, senior vice president, National Geographic Interactive Platforms Group, and senior vice president, corporate strategy and development, National Geographic Global Media.

"Our Interactive Platforms division continues to field a broad array of highly engaging and entertaining consumer products with universal appeal across multiple platforms, incorporating the best of National Geographic's mission, brands and franchises," said Levine. "Millions of families and gamers of all ages around the globe are playing our games on consoles, handhelds, mobile phones and online, and we are thrilled to work with such creative and innovative partners to deliver next-generation 'AAA' titles and virtual experiences to our global audiences."

The new National Geographic partnerships will play an integral role as the Society, known for its documentation and exploration of the natural world, continues to evolve as an organization through the creation of new, family-friendly consumer experiences and means of storytelling that inspire people of all ages to explore their world.

Based on National Geographic's core themes and media properties, these branded games will further enhance National Geographic's mission of inspiring people to care about the planet and will allow gamers of all ages to explore the natural world through play.

Black Bean Games — Black Bean Games, an Italian-based publisher of console, handheld and PC-based games and best known for its Superbike franchise, is partnering with NGG to develop eight games that incorporate themes of ancient and lost worlds, wildlife, geography and natural wonders. Available on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Nintendo Wii, each game will include National Geographic's award-winning HD photography and video content. The games also will include fun peripherals to enhance game play. The first game is scheduled to release by Q2 2010.
Smart Bomb Interactive — Through its partnership with Smart Bomb, best known for its character-based racing games and the forthcoming aerial adventure "Snoopy Flying Ace," National Geographic introduces its first global-scale virtual world, "National Geographic's Animal Adventures,"™ which focuses on animals, geography and exploration. Kids ages 5-11 will be able to explore this online world with animal avatars they choose, customize and outfit for exploration adventures. Along the way they'll play games with friends, design habitats for their animals and uncover the mysteries of this new world in a series of multiplayer quests and expeditions. Young explorers and their families also will have access to a vast multimedia library created from National Geographic's world-renowned content libraries and will be able to participate in ongoing virtual "live events" on a multitude of topics, allowing them to learn more about the natural world and its animal inhabitants. "Animal Adventures" is scheduled to launch in Q2 2010.
RealGames* — NGG is working with RealNetworks* to develop and publish five casual PC and online games globally via Real's extensive distribution channels. Beginning release later this year, the first two games will be part of major National Geographic cross-platform global event launches. Through this collaboration, Real and NGG aim to take casual online gaming to the next level through a combination of highly immersive storytelling, exploration-based game play and rich visual content.

"Finding the right partners is critical in collaborating to develop truly great games. Each of these partners brings with them incredible creativity and proven expertise in developing, marketing and distributing family-friendly 'AAA' titles across multiple platforms to global audiences," said Chris Mate, vice president and general manager for NGG. "These new relationships will further enable NGG to offer unique gaming experiences based on our award-winning storytelling, renowned digital and HD imagery, information and authenticity — the kind of games only National Geographic can deliver."

About National Geographic Ventures
National Geographic Ventures (NGV) is a wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of the National Geographic Society, one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the National Geographic Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. NGV, part of the editorial group National Geographic Global Media, includes National Geographic Television (NGT) production and distribution, National Geographic Television International, Digital Media (including Nationalgeographic.com) and National Geographic Interactive Platforms Group, comprising NGV's Mobile, Gaming, Maps and Digital Publishing business units. NGV creates and distributes content across multiple platforms and media, providing outlets for the hundreds of scientific and expedition-based grants awarded each year. For more information, go to www.nationalgeographic.com.

* RealNetworks and RealGames are trademarks or registered trademarks of RealNetworks, Inc.

JASON SCIENCE CURRICULUM EARNS 2009 CODIE AWARD

2009-05-07

ASHBURN, Va. (May 7, 2009)--The JASON Project has captured its second major educational award of 2009, winning a coveted Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) CODiE for excellence and vision in educational technology and digital content.

Operation: Resilient Planet, JASON's multimedia ecology curriculum, was named Best Science Instructional Solution by a nationwide group of educators, technology specialists and journalists. They also selected the unit as a finalist in the categories of Best Education Solution and Best Online Instructional Solution.

JASON is a nonprofit subsidiary of the National Geographic Society.

"We are delighted with this latest recognition," said Caleb M. Schutz, president of The JASON Project. "Our goal is to deliver a 21st-century educational solution for students and teachers everywhere, and this important award helps validate our progress."

Earlier this year Operation: Resilient Planet garnered a Distinguished Achievement Award from the Association of Educational Publishers. The unit's video game is a finalist in the category of Best Educational Toys and Games, with the winner to be announced in June.

The latest award signals a strong endorsement of JASON's new curriculum line, which launched in September 2007 with the release of the Operation: Monster Storms weather unit and was followed by the ecology unit last summer.

Technology & Learning magazine bestowed its Award of Excellence on Operation: Monster Storms in 2008 for "breaking new ground and demonstrating clear superiority over similar products in the market."

The weather unit also won a 2008 CODiE for Best Online Instructional Solution and was named a 2008 finalist for Best Science Instructional Solution.

JASON is in final development of an energy unit, Operation: Infinite Potential, scheduled for release this summer and developed in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, National Energy Technology Laboratory, the U.S. Department of Energy, Shell International, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Geographic Society.

About The JASON Project
JASON is a nonprofit subsidiary of the National Geographic Society. Since 1989, JASON has worked with leading scientific institutions and other organizations to develop inquiry-based science curricula and professional development. JASON was founded by Dr. Robert Ballard, the oceanographer and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence who discovered the shipwreck of RMS Titanic and who today serves as JASON's chairman and chief scientist. For more information, visit www.jason.org.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC JOINS CALIFORNIA PARTNERS, BLM TO LAUNCH GEOTOURISM PROJECT FOR STATE'S NORTH COAST

2009-05-04

FORT BRAGG, Calif. (May 4, 2009)—National Geographic Society's Center for Sustainable Destinations (CSD) has joined the North Coast Tourism Council, local communities and the Bureau of Land Management to spotlight the world-class natural attractions of the California North Coast. The pilot project, which will launch with the creation of an innovative online map, seeks to contribute to the economic health of communities by promoting geotourism: tourism that sustains and enhances the geographical character of a place — its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage and the well-being of its residents.

Local communities and individuals have one month to nominate their favorite geotourism attractions for inclusion in the National Geographic Geotourism MapGuide for the North Coast region, which stretches from West Marin to Del Norte counties and includes private and public lands. Nominations for landmarks, attractions, activities, events and local businesses that best define the region's character and distinctive appeal may be made through May 31, 2009, at www.northcoastgeotourism.com. The Web-based North Coast MapGuide, to be created by National Geographic's cartographers, will be available in November 2009.

"From Point Reyes to the state and national redwoods parks, the spectacular beauty and abundant recreational opportunities of the North Coast are vast," said James Dion, associate director of the CSD. "The MapGuide will celebrate the area's scenic, cultural and historical attributes from the unique vantage point of those who live there."

Public forums and presentations have been conducted in communities throughout the North Coast to encourage nominations and community involvement.

"Because those who live and recreate here know it best, participation by local residents is critical to the project's success," said Scott Schneider, chair, North Coast Tourism Council. "Our goal is to get nominations from across the region that identify the things people love best — the 'don't miss' places that inevitably become return visits."

Beyond open-to-the-public map point nominations, the MapGuide development process calls for oversight by a regional committee. The North Coast Geotourism Committee, which met for the first time Dec. 2, 2008, represents an assortment of geotourism perspectives, including community leadership, historic preservation, natural resources, public lands management, indigenous peoples, traditional and local arts, agriculture, tourism promotion and local businesses.

"An inherent benefit of geotourism is connecting diverse interests under a common goal," said Dion. The design of the MapGuide process, specifically in forming a regional stewardship council, encourages and builds mutually beneficial partnerships. A primary task for the Geotourism Committee will be to review and sort map nomination submissions prior to sending them to National Geographic, which will have final say on the selected sites and themes for the online MapGuide.

"California is very interested in supporting sustainable rural tourism under its economic development strategies," noted Richard Strom, director of special projects, Mendocino County Promotional Alliance. "The state also acknowledges the sensitive balance between growth and conservation, particularly in the North Coast region. Geotravelers tend to spend more money, stay longer and leave a softer footprint."

According to a 2002 study by National Geographic Traveler magazine and the U.S. Travel Association, more than 55 million adults in the United States could be described as geotourists, who travel to enjoy the distinctive character of places and are willing to help sustain and enhance those qualities for future visitors. These travelers control more than half the household income of all U.S. travelers.

The CSD is providing project direction under Jonathan Tourtellot, the center's director, and James Dion; National Geographic Maps chief cartographer Allen Carroll will head mapping.

The National Geographic Society has worked with community-based alliances to develop similar Geotourism MapGuides in several other regions around the world. MapGuide projects have been completed or are ongoing in Greater Yellowstone, the Central Cascades (Oregon, Washington), the Crown of the Continent (Alberta, British Columbia, Montana), Guatemala, Sonoran Desert (Arizona, Sonora), Romania, Norway, Honduras, Peru, Baja California, Rhode Island, Vermont and Appalachia.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations. Founded in 1888 to increase and diffuse geographic knowledge, the Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. It reaches more than 360 million people worldwide each month through its official journal, National Geographic, and other magazines; National Geographic Channel; television documentaries; music; radio; films; books; DVDs; maps; exhibitions; live events; school publishing programs; interactive media; and merchandise. National Geographic has funded more than 9,000 scientific research, conservation and exploration projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy. For more information, visit nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIGITAL MEDIA UNVEILS NEW IMMERSIVE WEB 2.0 PHOTOGRAPHY APPLICATION -- 'INFINITE PHOTOGRAPH'

2009-04-16

WASHINGTON (April 16, 2009)--National Geographic Digital Media (NGDM) today launches Infinite Photograph, a cutting-edge Web 2.0 photography mosaic application that will allow users to interact with shared online photographs by clicking on color patterns to create an infinite array of stunning mosaics in a variety of themes.

Gearing up for Earth Day, the first Infinite Photograph theme debuts April 16 at www.ngm.com/infinite, featuring mosaics created from user-submitted photos of the natural world as part of National Geographic's My Shot "As Seen on Earth" hub, found at http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/myshot/infinite-photograph/earth.

An Infinite Photograph digital mosaic is composed of 200 to 500 photographs culled from National Geographic's user-generated My Shot photography database. NGDM will roll out more functionality for Infinite Photograph over the next few months, including features that allow users to select search terms from the entire My Shot database of tagged photos, build Infinite Photographs from their own catalog of digital photography and interact with the program through such social networking sites as Facebook.

"Infinite Photograph taps into avid social media users and photography enthusiasts
in a way no Web technology has done to date," said Rob Covey, NGDM's senior vice president of content development and design for online material. "National Geographic has long been known as a leader in stunning photography and for its commitment to preserving our planet. Infinite Photograph supports that longstanding identity and simultaneously represents a significant leap forward into using advanced technology to increase engagement with the brand."

National Geographic launched My Shot last year, generating an online destination where viewers can build their own photo-based National Geographic Web page as well as create and share albums, puzzles and games with fellow users. To date, My Shot has garnered more than 50,000 members, who have uploaded more than 250,000 photos featuring images of people and places around the world.

About National Geographic Digital Media
National Geographic Digital Media (NGDM) is the multimedia division of National Geographic Ventures, the wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of the National Geographic Society, one of the world's largest educational and scientific nonprofit organizations, which works to inspire people to care about the planet. Holding many top industry's awards, NGDM publishes Nationalgeographic.com; produces short-form video for broadband markets; manages marketing and content partnerships across broadband, mobile, gaming and other consumer digital platforms; and provides video and film footage to commercial, theatrical, educational and other digital footage markets.

Pearl Jam, R.E.M. and U.S. Olympic Swimming Champs Dive In to Save Sea Turtles

2009-04-15

Arlington, VA (April 16, 2009) - Conservation International (CI) today announced the launch of the "Great Turtle Race," a virtual "race" that follows 11 real leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) on an epic journey from feeding areas in chilly waters off Canada's Atlantic coast to breeding areas in the warm tropical waters of the Caribbean. Race fans can see the action online at www.GreatTurtleRace.org, created in partnership with NationalGeographic.com, which puts the spotlight on one of today's most iconic animal species and what can be done to protect them.

As the turtles ride the waves to be the first to reach the finish line by April 29, they will be cheered on by celebrity sponsors including rock bands Pearl Jam and R.E.M., and 'coached' by Olympic swimmers Amanda Beard, Aaron Peirsol, Janet Evans, Jason Lezak, Cullen Jones and Eric Shanteau, who will also provide race commentary. NBC announcer and Olympic athlete Rowdy Gaines, "The Voice of Swimming," will serve as official commentator and will be "calling" the race in daily online updates issued by CI. The eclectic group of Great Turtle Race supporters also includes surfers, schools, sea turtle biologists and nongovernmental groups.

"The magic of the Great Turtle Race is that it puts actual data from migrating sea turtles into a captivating, fun-filled format that draws attention to important biological research and inspires people to act on behalf of ocean conservation," said CI Vice President Roderic Mast.

"The fate of sea turtles, the global marine environment and humanity itself are inextricably tied to the choices we make today," said Pearl Jam guitarist Stone Gossard, an advocate for saving turtles and their marine habitats. "Pearl Jam is happy to be a part of the Great Turtle Race, and we are encouraging all our fans and friends to join the fun, cheer on our turtle, Backspacer, and help save the seas."

National Geographic will host the race at www.GreatTurtleRace.org in collaboration with CI. The Great Turtle Race site will feature a "race" map that follows the real journey of each turtle during the two-week race. Daily updates will feature guest bloggers, such as swim and surf champions, marine scientists and conservationists. Visitors can also play the Great Turtle Race online game and compete to dominate each week's leaderboard. The Great Turtle Race coincides with the release of National Geographic magazine's May issue, which contains a feature article on leatherback turtles by National Geographic Executive Editor Tim Appenzeller, with photos by award-winning photographer Brian Skerry.

This year's Great Turtle Race event builds on the success of the first Great Turtle Race in 2007 that featured 11 female leatherbacks making their way from Costa Rica to the Galápagos Islands. This year, both male and female turtles are on the official race roster competing in what Rowdy Gaines reports "will be a grueling marathon of more than 6,000 km. But the event is more than just a race to the finish line; the turtles will also face off in a series of mini-challenges such as the Deepest Dive competition. Even more to the point, this race extends far beyond the April 29 finish — the true race is one for survival, one that we all impact and one that has no certain end."

Leatherbacks are spectacular animals that have been swimming Earth's oceans since dinosaurs roamed the land. They can weigh more than half a ton, can dive more than a half a mile deep, and have the widest geographic range of any reptile. Currently, leatherbacks, like all sea turtles, are threatened by human actions such as incidental capture in fisheries (termed "bycatch"), consumption of their eggs, coastal development and ingestion of plastic debris. Leatherback populations have declined dramatically in some parts of the world, such as the eastern Pacific, where their numbers have decreased more than 90 percent over the past two decades.

The data providing the realistic basis to the racing turtles come from satellite transmitters that were put on each turtle by experts from the Canadian Sea Turtle Network based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. These devices are providing data to help conservationists better understand how turtles use different marine environments across their basin-wide range. The Great Turtle Race will raise funds to protect important nesting and feeding habitats and will raise awareness about what we can all do — no matter where we live — to help protect sea turtles and their habitats.

"Although it remains to be seen whether the old adage about turtles, that 'slow and steady wins the race,' will hold in this case, we are optimistic that the event will convey that leatherbacks are going faster than we think," said Mast. "There's no time to waste in making responsible decisions that will ensure healthy oceans full of leatherbacks for generations to come."

Photos for use with coverage of the race are available at:
http://bitly.com/18dUK

Conservation International (CI) applies innovations in science, economics, policy and community participation to protect the Earth's richest regions of plant and animal diversity and demonstrate that human societies can live harmoniously with nature. Founded in 1987, CI works in more than 40 countries on four continents to help people find economic alternatives without harming their natural environments. For more information about CI, visit www.conservation.org.

Nationalgeographic.com is the award-winning Web site of the National Geographic Society, and attracts more than 12 million unique visitors a month. Nationalgeographic.com combines National Geographic's video, photography and maps with in-depth information and interactive features about animals, nature, destinations and cultures. NationalGeographic.com's news service, National Geographic News, publishes daily stories about science and discoveries. Information about advertising on Nationalgeographic.com is at nationalgeographic.com/advertising.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIGITAL MEDIA PROMOTES PRIYA BANDISODE TO VICE PRESIDENT OF STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT & OPERATIONS

2009-04-13

WASHINGTON (April 13, 2009)—National Geographic Digital Media (NGDM) President John Caldwell has named Priya Bandisode vice president of strategic development & operations. Under her direction, the strategic development & operations team will be responsible for identifying and implementing business strategies that maximize revenues for the division, while building new partnerships both domestically and internationally to extend NGDM's audience and reach.

"Since joining NGDM, Priya has played an integral role in defining new strategies and initiatives that will increase both our audience and profitability," said Caldwell. "Her business strategy experience and passion for quality media content will greatly benefit National Geographic as we aggressively extend our mission to reach global audiences across digital platforms."

Bandisode previously served as director of strategic development for NGDM, responsible for business planning and performance improvement. She served as a liaison on cross-divisional initiatives and led international partnership discussions in Europe and the Middle East.

"National Geographic has always provided consumers with a truly rich content experience," said Bandisode. "I look forward to working with the NGDM management team to help us further engage audiences and extend our digital presence around the globe."

Prior to joining NGDM, Bandisode worked for AOL, where she was responsible for strategic and operations initiatives to improve profitability of the company. She also served as a management consultant for 10 years across consumer, media and telecommunications industries.

About National Geographic Ventures
National Geographic Ventures is a wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of the National Geographic Society, one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the National Geographic Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. NGV, part of the National Geographic Global Media editorial group, includes National Geographic Television production and distribution, National Geographic Television International, Digital Media (including Nationalgeographic.com) and National Geographic Interactive Platforms Group, comprising the Mobile, Gaming and Maps business groups. NGV creates and distributes content across multi-platforms and media, providing outlets for the hundreds of scientific and expedition-based grants awarded each year. For more information, go to www.nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PROVIDES AWARD-WINNING CONTENT ON NEW VERIZON HUB

2009-02-09

WASHINGTON and BASKING RIDGE, N.J. - National Geographic's newly launched mobile division, National Geographic Mobile, and Verizon Wireless, the nation's leading wireless service provider, announced today that National Geographic's award-winning video content is available on the Verizon Hub. Available now from Verizon Wireless, the Verizon Hub is an easy-to-use system that puts a communications command center in the home. It bridges wireline and wireless connectivity and runs on any broadband connection - whether supplied by Verizon (FiOS Internet or DSL) or any other high-speed Internet service provider.

The Verizon Hub gives busy families information at their fingertips from an easy-to-navigate touch screen with on-demand access to an array of services. A wide range of National Geographic video content, from the smallest animals to the most fascinating places around the world, will be featured on three Verizon Hub V CAST channels: Kids, Travel and What's New on TV.

"The National Geographic Mobile division was established to provide leading carriers such as Verizon Wireless with entertaining video, music, images and games designed for the mobile platform," said Aaron Kohn, vice president and general manager of National Geographic Mobile. "We are thrilled to be able to bring our acclaimed video content to a new generation of consumers through the Verizon Hub."

Recognized for its powerful videos and stunning photography, National Geographic will leverage its assets to feed the growing demand of Verizon Wireless customers who are looking for compelling, rich media content on the Verizon Hub. Verizon Wireless' current relationship with National Geographic also gives customers access to animal sound ringtones on VZW Tones. Content is available to all customers at the National Geographic Mobile Web site, http://natgeomobile.com, and its online content storefront, http://mobilestore.nationalgeographic.com.

"We are delighted to be able to offer National Geographic's award-winning kids and travel content on the Verizon Hub," said Mike Lanman, vice president and chief marketing officer for Verizon Wireless. "National Geographic's content appeals to a broad range of consumers who are interested in the planet, and its availability furthers our goal to provide engaging entertainment to people of all ages."

Pricing and Availability
Customers need a wireless line of service with Verizon Wireless in order to purchase the communications command center since all billing for the Verizon Hub will be consolidated onto customers' Verizon Wireless bills. In addition, customers need a Verizon Digital Voice plan for the Verizon Hub, which is $34.99 a month and offers unlimited calling in the U.S., Canada, and U.S. Territories, including Puerto Rico, as well as unlimited messaging to and from Verizon Wireless phones.

The Verizon Hub is available in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores across the country for $199.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a two-year agreement; additional cordless handsets, which can be placed throughout the home, are available for $79.99 each. For customers who do not own a wireless router, Verizon Wireless also offers a router to work with the Verizon Hub for $69.99.

For more information on National Geographic, visit www.nationalgeographic.com. For more information on the Verizon Hub, visit www.verizonwireless.com/hub.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and data network, serving more than 80 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

About National Geographic Ventures
National Geographic Ventures (NGV) is a wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of National Geographic Society, one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the National Geographic Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. NGV includes National Geographic Television production and distribution, National Geographic Television International, National Geographic Films and National Geographic Giant Screen Films, Kids Entertainment, National Geographic Home Entertainment, National Geographic Music and Radio, National Geographic Mobile, National Geographic Games, Digital Media including Digital Motion (formerly the Film Library), Nationalgeographic.com and National Geographic Maps. NGV creates and distributes content across multi-platforms and media providing outlets for the hundreds of scientific and expedition-based grants awarded each year. For more information, go to www.nationalgeographic.com.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC LAUNCHES GAMES DIVISION

2008-11-17

WASHINGTON (Nov. 18, 2008)—Ted Prince, chief operating officer of National Geographic Ventures (NGV) and executive vice president of operations for National Geographic Global Media (NGGM), today announced the formation of National Geographic Games (NGG), a division that will publish and develop games across major gaming console, handheld, online and mobile platforms.

NGG will work with premier game publishers and developers to create fun, high-quality games based on National Geographic's core themes and media properties to extend National Geographic's mission of inspiring people to care about the planet and reach a new generation of consumers and families.

NGG is led by a team of industry veterans who will use all of National Geographic's talent, assets and resources from across Mission Programs, Television, Entertainment and Publishing to carve a unique leadership position in the market. Paul Levine, senior vice president, extended platforms group, NGV, and senior vice president, corporate strategy and development, NGGM, will lead the new division as well as NGV's Maps and Mobile businesses. Chris Mate, former Take2 Interactive and Bethesda Softworks executive, with more than 25 years' experience, has joined as vice president and general manager for NGG and will oversee and manage the group's daily global operations.

"The launch of our games division furthers National Geographic Venture's cross-platform strategy of creating and distributing unique consumer experiences and content on multiple platforms and devices," said Prince. "Paul's strong background in cross-platform media, interactive entertainment and business building and development combined with Chris' expertise in the video game industry and product development will ensure that National Geographic Games extends our mission globally and makes the National Geographic brand more meaningful to a broader audience."

NGG also announced it has partnered with Namco Bandai Games America and Sony Computer Entertainment to publish and distribute globally National Geographic-branded titles on major gaming consoles and handheld devices, including the Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS handheld, PlayStation 3 and PS3 Network, PCs and mobile devices such as the iPhone.

"National Geographic Games has brought authenticity to the kind of family gaming we're developing with them," said Andrew Lelchuk, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Namco Bandai Games America Inc. "Our collaboration is enabling us to tailor the content, so we can offer games to our customers that are relevant, entertaining and that bring a unique experience only the National Geographic brand can deliver."

To further celebrate the launch of NGG, National Geographic is introducing "Herod's Lost Tomb," its first game produced in-house, which highlights content from the December 2008 issue of National Geographic magazine as well as its National Geographic Channel feature broadcast on the biblical figure King Herod, architect of the ancient world. The game will be available online in both a flash version fir free at nationalgeographic.com/channel and a downloadable game for PC, Mac and iPhone that includes full features and high production content.

"By leveraging National Geographic's leading family brand, core themes and franchises, and its unique content that drives our mission-forward strategy, NGG will create fun games that allow gamers of all ages to experience and explore their world through play," said Levine. "Our global audiences love to play games, and we plan on creating games in-house as well as working with leading global publishers to develop entertaining games that engage those audiences in a relevant way."

National Geographic Games Release Schedule:

November 2008

"National Geographic — Herod's Lost Tomb"

Namco Bandai — "National Geographic: Panda"

2009

National Geographic — "Sudoku Traveler: China"

National Geographic — "Rain Forests"

National Geographic — "Greencity"
National Geographic — "From the Bottom Up"

About National Geographic Ventures
National Geographic Ventures (NGV) is a wholly owned, taxable subsidiary of National Geographic Society, one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge," the National Geographic Society works to inspire people to care about the planet. NGV, part of the editorial group National Geographic Global Media, includes National Geographic Television (NGT) production and distribution, National Geographic Television International, Digital Media (including Nationalgeographic.com) and National Geographic Extended Platforms Group, comprising the Mobile, Gaming and Maps business groups. NGV creates and distributes content across multi-platforms and media providing outlets for the hundreds of scientific and expedition-based grants awarded each year. For more information, go to www.nationalgeographic.com