This was a big week here at Discovery, with the launch of a new video network, some fun new residents inhabiting 1 Discovery Place and more. Below is a roundup of some of the comings and goings here at Discovery this week:
Built With Love in Atlantic City
One of the perks of working at Discovery often means getting to check out a sneak peek of some of our best work before it hits the airwaves – or in this case, the web. A month or so ago, I had the pleasure of seeing the work in progress that was TestTube , so I am thrilled that today we can finally announce the launch of this awesome new digital video network.
Earlier today, Discovery Communications & Revision3 announced the launch of TestTube, a digital video network designed to satiate the incurably curious.
TestTube fearlessly takes viewers into unexplored territory with all-new series that feature some of the Internet’s top hosts and stars and original programs, including “Pick Your Poison,” which explores what happens to the human body when it comes in contact with different toxins, “Stuff of Genius,” which shares the stories behind everyday inventions, and “Stuff Mom Never Told You,” which dives deep into the business of womanhood.
Get your curiousity on at TestTube.Com and with the samples below – we’ve learned you can’t just stop at one!
Last night, Destination America’s King of BBQ, Myron Mixon, celebrated his new restaurant, book and season of BBQ Pitmasters as any BBQ King would – with a smokin’ party! Last night, Myron hosted guests for a proper BBQ feast at his new Pride and Joy Barbecue in New York City. Guests were treated to two whole smoked hogs, ribs, pulled pork sliders, short ribs, and mac n cheese – and to wash it all down, three specialty cocktails, featuring, of course, bourbon and whiskeys.
For BBQ lovers, the party didn’t end last night. Next week, Destination America celebrates Meat Week, a week of sizzling new shows honoring backyard warriors who share their passion for All-American meat. The meat bonanza, which kicks off on Memorial Day with Smoked, the ultimate BBQ competition, includes Epic BBQ Pits, United States of Bacon, and concludes on June 2 at 9 PM ET/PT with the season premiere of BBQ Pitmasters. Next week, we’ll bring you more mouthwatering details on Meat Week, but until then, satisfy your BBQ tastebuds with the photos below.
BBQ Pitmasters Judge Tuff Stone, Myron Mixon, and network executives Henry Schleiff and Mark Etkind
Myron with the whole hog
Over the past five days, I’ve loved sharing my incredible experience on Discovery’s Rebuilding Atlantic City trip. Now, as we all return to our desks and daily routines, Atlantic City seems worlds away. In our offices today, however, stories are shared over and over again, and it’s clear #ourimpact will continue to grow from Atlantic City. I’ve included coverage from local news organizations below, and you can visit our Facebook album for a gallery of images from the week. We hope you’ll continue to share our experiences in your own communities and help us ensure all New Jersey families are able to return to their restored homes soon.
Thank you for joining us on this amazing journey!
Governor Christie Visits Ventnor, Thanks Volunteers
Christie Visits Ventor Home Slammed by Sandy
Governor Christie, Cable TV Show Visit Ventnor, NJ to Help With Post-Sandy Rebuild
Homeowners Richard and Richard, Jr. in their restored home
Is it really over?
We just wrapped up day three of Rebuilding Atlantic City yesterday, and I’m still in disbelief that so much has been accomplished in just three days. While each home started at different points – without a floor, without walls, without insulation – great progress was made in each one. More importantly, however, an impact was made both for the families we worked with and within ourselves.
Today, my team (Team Elizabeth!) met our homeowner for the first time, and within seconds, we knew all of our sore muscles, sweat and frustration was more than worth the sacrifice. Elizabeth shared with us her story: she has lived in her same home since 1967, and when the storm hit, she evacuated with her three cats. When she returned, little but a structure was left.
With insurance funds, Elizabeth hired a contractor to help rebuild her home, but just after he started work, he left town, leaving her with a nearly demolished home and little savings. Her son was able to begin the rebuilding process, and we continued his work throughout the past three days. Today, when Elizabeth visited, her deep gratitude and hope brought us all to tears. “You’ve given me hope for mankind and our future,” she told us. In seeing her home for the first time, Elizabeth’s face lit up as she shared her dreams for a pale yellow living room and a small cat door out back. While she kept expressing a desire to do more to thank us, we all felt so grateful to have the opportunity to help someone who had lost so much and to give this woman hope for a brighter future.
While all of the families had different backgrounds and stories, they all showed great resilience and instilled in each of us a deeper appreciation for our own homes and families. As we return to the office, I know each of us will feel more empowered to find ways to give back and support our own communities.
As always, I’ve included a few snapshots of today below, and for more images and stories from Rebuilding Atlantic City, follow us on Twitter, Instagram (#ourimpact on both!) and Facebook. Stay tuned for a recap of the rebuild next week!
Discovery Volunteers
Team Elizabeth, with Elizabeth in Center
Leaving #OurImpact
Education and Animal Care Staff from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo speak to students about the diverse wildlife in North America.