The Latest and Greatest to Make it Into the New GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS 2014 Book, Out Today

Including:

 – Fastest crossing of a tightrope by a dog – from the UK!

        – World’s largest motorcycle

        – Lowest limbo skater

        – Largest collection of vacuum cleaners – from the UK!

        – Farthest Distance Skateboarded by a goat

        – World’s smallest dog

        – Largest collection of Star Wars memorabilia

        – Fastest 100m in high heels

GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS, the global authority on record-breaking achievement, today announce the greatest new records to have made it into the latest edition of the world’s best-selling book: GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS 2014 [http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/2014/index.html ]. GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS (GWR) is the universally recognized global authority on record-breaking achievement. First published in 1955, the annual GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS book has gone on to become one of the biggest-selling copyright titles of all time, selling over 2.7 million copies a year. Since its launch nearly 60 years ago over 130 million copies – including 400,000 ebooks – have been sold in 20 languages, in more than 100 countries. The internationally renowned brand is also available across a number of platforms; GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS global television shows are watched by 750 million viewers annually, over 390,000 users subscribe to GWR’s two YouTube channels, the global website receives 12 million viewers annually and the brand has 1.25 million fans on Facebook. In 2013, OFFICIALLY AMAZING became the registered trademark of Guinness World Records Limited.

Austin Coulson – Smallest Roadworthy Car: This is an image from the new Guinness World Records 2014 book, out today.

The iconic publication, out today, recognises an incredible array of international record-breakers including 12-year-old Rohan Kokane, the Lowest Limbo Skater, and Italy’s Fabio Reggiani, creator of the world’s Largest Motorcycle. The UK’s strong representation includes Nottingham’s James Brown, who lays claim to the world’s Largest Collection of Vacuum Cleaners, and Ozzy the dog from Anglesey, North Wales, who is recognized for the Fastest Crossing of a Tightrope by a Dog.

Guinness World Records Editor-in-Chief, Craig Glenday, said: “This eclectic and fascinating selection of record holders perfectly demonstrates the breadth – and the peculiarity – of this year’s book. Where else would you find a vacuum-cleaner collector, a tightrope-walking dog and an oversized motorcycle all in one place? Only in GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS 2014! As a Brit, I’m also proud that UK record-holders are so well represented this year with such eccentric and charming record holders.”

Rohan Kokane – Lowest limbo skating: Photo Credit: India’s Rohan Kokane celebrates his inclusion in the new Guinness World Records 2014 book, out today, for being the lowest limbo skater. The 12 year-old achieved a roller-skating height of just 25cm over a distance of 10m
Photographer: Paul Michael Hughes/Guinness World Records

Lowest Limbo Skater: Rohan Kokane (India) – Skated 10 m at height of 25 cm (9.84 in)

One of the youngest new record-breakers to make it into the new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS book is 12-year-old Rohan Kokane from Belgaum in Karnataka, India. The year-7 student at St Xavier’s High School is recognized for being the Lowest Limbo Skater, achieving a roller-skating height of just 25 cm over a distance of 10 m.

Rohan began roller-skating at the age of 8, harnessing his extreme flexibility early on to specialize in limbo-skating. This skill involves roller-skating under a bar set at a height of just 25 cm, which is shorter than the height of the actual GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS book. Since then, his extraordinary talents have made him local celebrity and seen him perform on TV shows around the world. A member of the Belgaum Roller Skating Academy, he has participated in various skating rallies organized to create awareness of social, educational and health issues.

ABSOLUT TUNE® Partners With Pop Duo Icona Pop

ABSOLUT® and Icona Pop Encourage Party-Goers to Flaunt their Sparkle and Unleash their Spirit with New ABSOLUT TUNE

The blend of two amazing talents invariably creates something truly compelling and no one knows this better than ABSOLUT®. The premium vodka brand is partnering with Icona Pop – the pop sensation from Sweden behind the hit single ‘I Love It’ ft. Charli XCX – to launch ABSOLUT TUNE® nationwide, a bubbly blend of crisp white wine and premium vodka.

ABSOLUT VODKA has been committed to developing innovative flavors since the introduction of ABSOLUT PEPPAR in 1986, its first flavored vodka.  Since then, ABSOLUT has continued to bring a unique twist to common flavors with products such as ABSOLUT® MANDRIN®, ABSOLUT® CITRON, ABSOLUT® KURANT®, ABSOLUT® VANILIA, ABSOLUT® RASPBERRI, ABSOLUT® APEACH®, ABSOLUT® RUBY RED, ABSOLUT® PEARS, ABSOLUT® MANGO, ABSOLUT® BERRI ACAI, ABSOLUT® WILD TEA, ABSOLUT® ORIENT APPLE, ABSOLUT® GRAPEVINE and ABSOLUT© CHERRYKRAN.

Previously only available in select markets, ABSOLUT TUNE can now be enjoyed whether it’s a birthday brunch or night on the town. The sophisticated drink delivers well integrated aromas and flavors that are well-balanced, rich, floral and fruity — met by a premium vodka note at the end. With vodka engrained in its DNA, ABSOLUT TUNE’s blend is perfect for adding a splash of juice or liqueur to create a simple and refreshing cocktail.

ABSOLUT TUNE’s dramatic bottle design epitomizes the brand’s unique offering. The white outer layer, filled with bright gold accents, unzips down the side to reveal a shiny black and gold interior. After the uncorking, a chilled flute glass of ABSOLUT TUNE ensures the perfect toast and start to any occasion.

NESCAFE® Dolce Gusto® Partners with Fiorucci on New Single-Serve Machine

NESCAFE® Dolce Gusto®, known for its design-conscious line of at-home coffee machines, is giving new meaning to the fashion phrase “Fall Collection” with the September introduction of its first couture Dolce Gusto Genio machine, designed by iconic Italian label Fiorucci. The avant-garde collaboration between the two distinctive brands was a match made in heaven, pairing the unconventional brainchild from global coffee leader Nestle® NESCAFE with the outgoing and original design house known for its artistic flair and fun with fashion. The stylish single-serve gadget ushers in a new trend in kitchen appliances, saying goodbye to the boring black boxes featured on so many countertops across the country. Even if you don’t have a lot of counter space, you can enjoy a gourmet-style coffee made to order with our technologically advanced Genio®.

Fiorucci Dolce Gusto® Genio machine

Fiorucci Dolce Gusto® Genio machine 4

Fiorucci (www.fiorucci.it) is an Italian brand with an outgoing and unmistakable style that has left its mark in the history of Italian fashion and the world over the last forty five years. For over four decades Fiorucci has been setting trends with provocative and colorful designs, infused with a young and unconventional style. In 1967 Fiorucci opened its first shop in Milan and then others followed in London, Paris, New York and Los Angeles. In the 1990s, Fiorucci was acquired by the Japanese Edwin Company Ltd., a leader in jeans made in Japan, beginning a diversification strategy of the brand through numerous licenses in Italy and in the world. Their unique perspective on the art of fashion is now expressed through the bold new NESCAFE Dolce Gusto Genio machine, adding a dose of color and creativity to kitchens nationwide.

Introducing the Stardust Collection by Rosita Missoni for MissoniHome

Stardust Collection by Rosita Missoni for MissoniHome

The MissoniHome Stardust Collection draws inspiration from its fashion house predecessor and serves as a celebration of the Missoni fashion brand’s 60th anniversary. Designed by Rosita Missoni, the collection offers a perfect set of hues and materials for fall. When combined, the patterns and fabrics for bed, bath and living products evoke harmony and nostalgia.

Stardust Collection by Rosita Missoni for MissoniHome

Stardust Collection by Rosita Missoni for MissoniHome

A theme of natural camouflages runs through the Stardust Collection. Soft tones commingle with piping textures, knit weaves, shading sequences, patchworks and evanescent floral patterns. In this world of elaborated neutrals, the introduction of a leather element stands out. The soft, top-grain Italian leather has an almost vintage overtone that mimics the delicate softness of the textile motifs.

Stardust Collection by Rosita Missoni for MissoniHome

Stardust Collection by Rosita Missoni for MissoniHome

The collection is composed of a variety of styles, from the elements of small and larger living accessories to bedding, bath and throws. Some of the items include the versatile Oxford pouf in a combination of hide-colored leather and velvet shag patchwork; the digital-printed Osaka linen-cotton upholstery fabric with a vintage patch effect; the Oleg bedspread in a jacquard knit; the light and delicately woven Odoardo and ribbed cashmere Oki throws; and soft and precious Odino towels in a micro and macro weave texture with lurex fringing finish. (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Missoni-Home-Milano/169060569779779)

Kahlua® Serves Up Fall In A Glass With New Kahlua® Pumpkin Spice

Spicing up Fall Cocktails and Festivities Kahlua’s Latest Seasonal Offering will be Available at Retailers for a Limited Time

Just in time for fall, Kahlua® Pumpkin Spice is the newest seasonally-inspired liqueur to join the Kahlua portfolio. Adding a twist of pumpkin and delicious autumnal spices to the much loved 100 percent Arabica coffee and sugarcane rum blend, Kahlua Pumpkin Spice is a must-have for any quintessential fall moment; and whether it’s shared among family at a festive gathering, given as the perfect hostess gift at any holiday party, or added as a seasonal kick to a coffee break at home, Kahlua Pumpkin Spice is sure to spice things up this autumn.

“Seasonal pumpkin editions have become a celebrated turning point to ushering in the fall. From flavored coffee drinks and baked goods, to scented candles and even hand lotions, autumn sparks the start of an unavoidable ‘pumpkin craze!,'” said Michelle Sanders, brand director for Kahlua at Pernod Ricard USA. “With this popularity of seasonal offerings and entertaining during the fall season, we’re excited for Kahlua Pumpkin Spice to become the cocktail of choice for celebrating the season.”

To add a warming, seasonal surprise to your next celebration, try the following signature recipes:

KAHLUA PUMPKIN MARTINI

• 1 ½ parts KAHLUA PUMPKIN SPICE
• 1 ½ parts ABSOLUT® VODKA

Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, shake and strain into a chilled martini glass.

Garnish with orange zest.

KAHLUA PUMPKIN SPICE WHISKY COCKTAIL

• 1 part KAHLUA PUMPKIN SPICE
• 1 ½ parts JAMESON® Irish Whiskey

Serve in an old-fashioned glass with a large ice cube.

Pernod Ricard USA is the premium spirits and wine company in the U.S., and the largest subsidiary of Paris, France-based

PERNOD RICARD USA KAHLUA: KAHLUA SERVES UP AUTUMN IN A GLASS WITH NEW KAHLUA PUMPKIN SPICE. (PRNewsFoto/Pernod Ricard USA)

Pernod Ricard SA, which employs more than 18,000 people worldwide. The company’s leading spirits and wines include such prestigious brands as Absolut® Vodka, Chivas Regal® Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet® Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Jameson® Irish Whiskey, Malibu®, Kahlua® Liqueur, Beefeater® Gin, Plymouth(TM) Gin, Seagram’s Extra Dry Gin®, Martell® Cognac, Hiram Walker® Liqueurs, Pernod®, Ricard® and Avion(TM) Tequila (through a joint venture with Tequila Avion); such superior wines as Jacob’s Creek® and Brancott Estate®; and such exquisite champagnes and sparkling wines as Perrier-Jouet® Champagne, G.H. Mumm(TM) Champagne and Mumm Napa® sparkling wines.

In addition to classic Kahlua, Kahlua Pumpkin Spice joins the other seasonally-available favorite, Kahlua® Peppermint Mocha, which are both available for a limited time from September through December 31. Available at major retail locations, Kahlua Pumpkin Spice is 20% Alc./Vol. (40 proof) and retails for a suggested price of $16.99 per 750 ml bottle.

A Queer History of Fashion: From the Closet to the Catwalk, New Exhibition at The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (MFIT)

The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (MFIT) will present the groundbreaking exhibition, A Queer History of Fashion: From the Closet to the Catwalk, the first museum exhibition to explore in depth the significant contributions to fashion made by LGBTQ (lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgender-queer) individuals over the past 300 years. Opening on September 13, 2013, A Queer History of Fashion will feature approximately 100 ensembles, from 18th-century menswear styles associated with an emerging gay subculture to 21st-century high fashion.

From Christian Dior to Yves Saint Laurent to Alexander McQueen, the importance of gay men as fashion designers is undeniable in the 20th century. But scholars have demonstrated that, as early as the 1700s, men who loved other men were pioneers in challenging sex and gender roles. Drawing on this research, A Queer History of Fashion: From the Closet to the Catwalk will be organized chronologically, beginning with the 18th century, when cross-dressing “mollies,” foppish “macaronis,” and “men milliners” created controversy.

Exhibition curators Fred Dennis, senior curator of costume, and Valerie Steele, director and chief curator of The Museum at FIT, spent two years researching and curating the exhibition. They worked with an advisory committee of eminent scholars, including professors George Chauncey (author of Gay New York), Shaun Cole (author of Don We Now Our Gay Apparel), Jonathan Katz (author/curator of Hide and Seek), Peter McNeil (co-editor of The Men’s Fashion Reader), and Vicki Karaminas (co-editor of the forthcoming Queer Style), as well as FIT faculty and fashion professionals.

Dr. Valerie Steele, , director and chief curator of The Museum at FIT

“This is about honoring the gay and lesbian designers of the past and present,” said Dennis. “By acknowledging their contributions to fashion, we want to encourage people to embrace diversity.”

“We also hope that this exhibition will transform our understanding of fashion history,” added Steele. “For many years, gays and lesbians were hidden from history. By acknowledging the historic influence of gay designers, and by emphasizing the important role that fashion and style have played within the LGBTQ community, we see how central gay culture has been to the creation of modern fashion.”

Oscar Wilde was a key 19th-century figure with regard to both the history of homosexuality and the history of style. Known for his influence on aesthetic dress, Wilde was also identified with a flashy sort of dandyism associated with the most visible urban homosexuals. Although it has not been possible to find clothing actually worn by Wilde or other gay men and lesbians from this period, styles similar to what they wore will be on display.

butch-chanel-wigstock-nyc-1992-photograph-by-michael-james-obrien-c-2013

Elite menswear looks became an important stylistic signifier for lesbians in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The garçonne look of the 1920s brought lesbian style into high fashion. Several extraordinary menswear looks worn from the 1930s on by the great bisexual actress Marlene Dietrich have been made available for this exhibition by the Berlin Film Museum. Also featured will be Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic Le Smoking, which was inspired by Dietrich’s tuxedo.

However, not all lesbians and bisexual women gravitated toward tailored suits. Also on display will be a lavender dress worn by lesbian actress Katherine Cornell and a body-worshipping dress designed by the great couturiere Madeleine Vionnet, who told Bruce Chatwin, “They always said I loved women too much.”

By the 1930s, identifiable gay or bisexual male designers played a significant role in fashion. Designers from the early- to mid-20th century featured in the exhibition will include Adrian, Cristóbal Balenciaga, Pierre Balmain (in collaboration with Bébé Bérard and Jean Cocteau), Christian Dior, Norman Hartnell, Charles James, and Edward Molyneux. The exhibition will contextualize these designers’ lives and work by showing the societal homophobia and discriminatory laws that they faced. For example, the sight of women in Dior’s New Look gowns or Balenciaga’s Velasquez dresses threw Coco Chanel into a rage. Director and producer Franco Zeffirelli describes her hissing at girls: “Look at them. Fools dressed by queens living out their fantasies.”

Facing the very real danger of exposure and arrest, many gays and lesbians adopted a style best described as discreet and invisible. By the 1960s, however, a more openly gay look began to influence “mod” menswear styles, as gay designers such as John Stephen of Carnaby Street and the tailor Tommy Nutter introduced colorful, decorative, body-conscious styles. Rudi Gernreich was a founding member of the pioneering gay liberation group Mattachine Society and advocated unisex styles such as caftans. In New York City, the Stonewall riots that took place on June 28, 1969, marked the beginning of a more open movement. Drag queens were among the leading participants in the riots, and the first gay pride parades took place the next year.

Sheila C. Johnson’s new Luxurious Virginia Resort, Salamander Resort & Spa, Welcomes First Guests

With a simple snip of her scissors, Sheila C. Johnson cut through the equestrian-inspired ribbon before her and consigned a decade of planning into memory. Salamander Resort & Spa (and the newest member of the Salamander Hotels and Resorts Group) open, and one of the most anticipated hospitality projects of recent memory had become reality. Luxurious accommodations welcome you, reflecting the relaxed elegance of a fine Virginia estate. Salamander Resort & Spa features 168 luxurious rooms and suites, a luxury spa, full-service equestrian center, Virginia Piedmont-inspired dining, a dedicated cooking studio, wine bar, billiards room and a unique array of conference and banquet facilities.

“I am so extraordinarily thankful for everyone’s patience, perseverance, and fortitude,” said Johnson, the resort’s owner, and founder and CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts. “In addition to its courageous traits, the salamander serves as a symbol of renewal, which is especially meaningful to me today.”

Located in the historic village of Middleburg on 340 picturesque acres in the heart of Virginia’s famed horse and wine country, Salamander Resort & Spa (1 Salamander Ln · Middleburg, (540) 687-3600 http://www.salamanderresort.com/) (features a previously unattainable collection of equestrian, spa, culinary, winery, nature and historic experiences for its visitors. The resort is only 35 minutes from Washington Dulles International Airport and only an hour’s drive from downtown Washington, D.C.

An flyover view of the recently opened Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, the newest member of teh Salamander Resorts & Hotels Group.

Designed to blend into the surrounding rolling countryside and respect the traditions of Johnson’s own nearby Virginia farm, which served as the architectural inspiration, Salamander Resort & Spa features 168 luxurious, spacious rooms and suites. Guest rooms measure 545–575 square feet and include a spacious sitting area, dining table for two, executive desk and marble-topped vanity table. All 17 suites and half of the guestrooms feature a beautiful gas fireplace, there are 40-inch flat panel television in each bedroom and a 19-inch LCD television in each bath; and private balcony or terrace for each room with two chairs, a cocktail table and expansive countryside views. Bath includes marble shower with body jets, pedestal tub, dual sinks and enclosed water closet. The plush bedding is accented by the linens and throws that have been personally designed by Sheila C. Johnson, incorporating hints of the seasons and the equestrian life. A refreshment corner with mini bar provides both anticipated favorites and locally unique offerings. Wired and wireless internet allows guests added security or the freedom to connect unencumbered.

All 17 suites and half of the guestrooms feature a beautiful gas fireplace, there are 40-inch flat panel television in each bedroom and a 19-inch LCD television in each bath; and private balcony or terrace for each room with two chairs, a cocktail table and expansive countryside views.

All rooms feature Hypoallergenic duvets and pillows, an Hair dryer, thick terry-cloth bathrobes, Wired and wireless internet access**, Twice-daily housekeeping service, Multi-line telephone(s) with voicemail and conference call capability, All-news cable network, iPod docking station, CD player, Daily newspaper delivery, In-room safe, Mini-bar and refrigerator,  and Coffee and tea-making facilities.

All 17 suites and half of the guestrooms Salamander Resort & Spa features expansive countryside views

There is a full-service equestrian center and an array of programming that includes riding instruction and clinics from the area’s world-class riders. Just a short trot from the property’s 22-stall stable, ThorTurf riding ring and nine paddocks are miles of trails on which riders can easily spend a full day. Equine enthusiast guests even have the opportunity to board their own horses.

There is a full-service equestrian center and an array of programming that includes riding instruction and clinics from the area’s world-class riders

With treatments that incorporate the surrounding area’s rich bounty, the Salamander Spa features 14 spacious treatment rooms with private stone treatment terraces and fireplaces, Exclusive Couple’s Suite with private terrace, whirlpool, steam shower and pedestal tub, Deluxe locker rooms with grand whirlpools, steam room, heated stone lounge chairs and experiential water features, Secluded spa courtyard with infinity edge pool, fire pit, whirlpool and private cabanas, Salon featuring hair, make-up, manicure and pedicure stations, and Advanced fitness center including indoor pool, cardio and weight room and movement studios, sauna and outdoor terraces.

Library at the Salamander Resort & Spa

Billiards room at the Salamander Resort & Spa

Living Room area in one of the 17 suites at the Salamander Resort & Spa

The culinary program is equally in tune with the surroundings. With Todd Gray, owner and Executive Chef of the acclaimed Equinox Restaurant in Washington, D.C., serving as Culinary Director, the dining experience at the Salamander Resort & Spa is equally as impressive. At Harrimans Grill, which features a soaring 42-foot-high ceiling and a panoramic view of the Bull Run Mountain Range, the cuisine celebrates Virginia’s Piedmont region, including a robust selection of steaks, chops, fruits and vegetables. The Gold Cup Wine Bar, designed like a winery tasting room with brick floor and wood-beamed ceiling, features wines from around the world and a creative menu that offers ( (and serves) an extensive menu of locally-inspired small plates throughout the day inspired by the Italian Piedmontan  and an extensive wine list.

Market Salamander provides gourmet picnic baskets for dining on the Resort grounds, in the nearby vineyards and at local equestrian events. There’s outdoor 28-seat dining terrace with hilltop views and private dining room for up to 16. Afternoon tea and evening cocktails are served in The Living Room with piano entertainment. There’s also 24-hour In-Room Dining, a State-of-the-art Cooking Studio featuring daily culinary classes; and just a few short steps away from the kitchen is a two-acre culinary garden.

The pool area at the Salamander Resort & Spa

Amenities, Activities and Programs include  an Equestrian Program with 22-stalls, practice ring, riding trails and instructional classes; Horse drawn carriage rides and shopping in the Village of Middleburg; Miles of walking and biking trails, Nature-based activities including bird watching and a sustainable garden, an outdoor pool area for families, Exclusive golf privileges at nearby Jack Nicklaus Signature Course  at nearby Creighton Farms Estates, falconry, Bocce,

Sheila C. Johnson is the owner of Salamander Resort & Spa, and the founder and CEO of Salamander Hotels & Resorts (Photo credit – Janet Hitchen)

croquet, putting green and other lawn games; Tennis courts with outdoor pool complex, the Sundlun Library with a wide collection of current and historic books available, as well as board games and quiet areas, Tours of 50 Virginia wineries within 60 minutes of the resort, over 400 annual equestrian-related activities, including steeplechases, polo events, and some of the country’s most celebrated horse shows, Shopping and dining in the historic village of Middleburg, Historic area tours including Journey Through Hallowed Ground, cultural tours and activities in Washington, D.C., and Whitewater rafting, sporting clays and raceway within 45 minutes of the Resort.

For Conference & Event Spaces purposes, The Salamander Resort & Spa is already ahead of the pack and include the luxurious 5,000-square-foot-divisible Middleburg Ballroom, the 1,800-square-foot-divisible Bluemont Ballroom, the 1,000-square-foot Hospitality Suite with outdoor terrace, executive Boardrooms and breakout rooms, the 2,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom Foyer area that opens to a large outdoor terrace with spectacular countryside views, unique function spaces including the Stallion Barn, Equestrian Barn, Grand Lawn, outdoor terraces, poolside settings, Culinary Gardens, Library and Billiards Room; the 2,000-square-foot Presidential Suite with large entertainment balcony and Dining Room exclusively for group luncheons.

Guest Services includes–but is not limited to– Overnight Valet Parking ($15), Daily Valet Parking ($5), Self-Parking and for your convenience, a $25 per day resort fee that covers area transportation, internet access, fitness center access and much more. (Please see website for the full list.)

The Salamander Hotels & Resorts (www.salamanderhotels.com) is a privately owned and operated company based in Middleburg, Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C. Founded by noted entrepreneur and philanthropist Sheila C. Johnson in 2005, the company owns, manages and develops hotels, resorts and inns that reflect the authenticity and character of their surrounding environment.