Ghost, goblins, jack-o’-lanterns, costumes and candy are all symbols of Halloween, a holiday children in many countries observe. In the United States it is celebrated each year on October 31. Festivals, parties and trick-or-treating all create the fun and sugar-high collection kids accumulate from mall stores handing out candy to neighbors dispensing treats into plastic pumpkins and Halloween bags.
Each Halloween, moms are busy helping the little ones select just the perfect costume. Ballerinas, cowboys, politicians, celebrities, witches and others adorn the night landscape as little munchkins go door-to-door in search of sweets.
Houses are decorated with carved pumpkins, spider webs, ghosts and witches. Spooky lightening and scary music, haunted houses and carnivals all contribute to the fun of the holiday for kids, and many grown ups as well. Parties, and traditions such as bobbing for apples, have existed for decades.
According to some historians, Halloween had a religious beginning and trick-or-treating did not become a widespread practice until the 1930s. The first U.S. printed appearance of the term was in 1934, and the first use in a national publication didn’t occur until 1939. Haunted attractions in the United States, many operated as fund raisers by philanthropic organizations, bring in an estimate $300–500 million each year, and draw some 400,000 customers.
Nancy Brinker, founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, was inspired by her sister’s struggles, concern for other women and losing battle with breast cancer. Founded in 1982, it is now the global leader in the breast cancer research and awareness movement. From its annual race in numerous cities, generous corporate contributions and individual donators, Susan G. Koman for the Cure® has invested nearly $1.5 billion with doctors and institutions.
lid it receives back during its specially marked containers’ campaign. This effort has resulting in contributing $25 million.
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Women leaders turn to many organizations to foster their personal and professional growth. One such organization is the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), which was founded in 1975. It is the voice of more than 10 million U.S. women-owned businesses. Its roster boasts over 7000 members and 70 chapters across the country. NAWBO’s mission is to propel women owned businesses into more economic, social and political power worldwide by providing insightful commentary on issues important to them. By focusing on the unique attributes that women business owners bring to the table, NAWBO joins female entrepreneurs from a wide range of businesses into a more-influential voice and helps them achieve dynamic leadership roles.
professionals who would have easy access to each other’s skills, talents, knowledge and resources. eWomenNetwork supports, promotes and showcases members’ products and services to help them achieve their professional objectives by providing multiple venues including online support, monthly meetings, coaching, publishing, a speaker’s bureau and annual national conventions. The eWomenNetwork.com philosophy is to give and serve others before focusing on ourselves.
