Veterans Day Premiere For “Along Recovery”, A Documentary About Traumatic Brain Injuries In The Military

DOCUMENTARY NOW WIDELY AVAILABLE ACROSS NORTH AMERICA ON VIDEO ON DEMAND

PRODUCED AND DIRECTED BY A TWO-TOUR VETERAN OF THE IRAQ WAR, ALONG RECOVERY IS AN AUTHENTIC AND COMPELLING FILM ABOUT THE IMPACT TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES HAVE MADE ON A GENERATION OF AFGHANISTAN AND IRAQ VETERANS. 

In honor of Veterans Day, over 100 VOD operators are offering Along Recovery (www.alongrecovery.com)  Produced and directed by an Iraq War veteran, Along Recovery chronicles the two-year recovery of four US soldiers evacuated from combat with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), the signature wound of Afghanistan and Iraq. The film is now available across North America on leading VOD platforms including Apple iTunes, Amazon VOD, AT&T U-Verse, Charter, Dish, Google Play, Hulu, Microsoft Xbox, Rogers Cable, Shaw, Sony PlayStation, Verizon FiOS, and Vudu.

Along Recovery is an award-winning documentary that provides an unprecedented perspective of a soldier’s medical treatment.  The film was produced and directed by Justin Springer, a former Army Officer who served two tours in Iraq with the First Infantry Division.  Mr. Springer was compelled to produce the film after witnessing the impact brain injuries had on his colleagues and his unit altogether.  Concerned about the state of military medical care following the 2007 scandal at Walter Reed Medical Center, Mr. Springer endeavored to produce a film that would feature a soldier’s perspective throughout the difficult recovery process. The Department of Defense granted Along Recovery unrestricted access to film inside their flagship hospital, the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas.

Along Recovery chronicles the recovery of four US Army soldiers; two wounded in Afghanistan, two wounded in Iraq. Equipped with an HD movie camera, Mr. Springer shadowed each of the soldiers daily for nearly two years while they received treatment at the hospital and depicts the exhaustive regimen of therapy and mind altering medications that each soldier is prescribed during treatment.  Away from the hospital, each soldier readjusts to post-combat life under the foggy haze of a brain injury.  Relationships with family and friends are tested as each soldier struggles with headaches, cognitive deficits, and other symptoms of their injuries, including post traumatic stress.  Following months of treatment, a medical review board determines each soldier’s fate; return to military service or reintegration into civilian life. With the aid of his military background, Mr. Springer was able to build a rapport with each soldier that elicited unfiltered commentary throughout the recovery process.

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY IN AFGHANISTAN AND IRAQ

In over ten years of war, traumatic brain injury (TBI) has emerged as a signature wound for Veterans of Afghanistan and Iraq.  Vast improvements in armored vehicles, body armor, and battlefield medicine have made it possible for soldiers to survive the destructive blasts of improvised explosive devices and other battlefield explosions.  But the pressurized shock wave created in a blast can violently impact vehicles and soldiers exposed in the open, often causing concussions, also referred to as traumatic brain injuries (TBI.) 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

TBI can affect several areas of brain function, to include impaired cognition, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and other behavioral disturbances.  Because of the stigma attached to mental health in the military and the acute nature of diagnosis, particularly in a combat environment, the Department of Defense estimates that fewer than half of those afflicted with a TBI receive appropriate treatment.  Beyond a difficult screening process, evidence-based treatment for combat related TBI are limited.  US casualties in Afghanistan and Iraq have a 300% improved rate of survival compared to previous wars. A consequence of modern combat’s high rate of survival is that our nation is now tasked with the care of thousands of Veterans with a complex and often invisible injury.

Netflix Adds Award-Winning Film “The Short Game” to Its Original Documentary Slate

Netflix will launch “The Short Game” on Thursday, December 12th at 12:01 AM PT.  The documentary, which will be the first original documentary available on the service, follows eight of the most competitive golfers around the globe, all who happen to be under the ripe age of seven years old, as they train for and compete in the World Championship of Junior Golf. The Netflix original documentary will be available to stream in all territories where Netflix is available – U.S., Canada, the UK, Ireland, Latin America, the Nordics and the Netherlands.

Emmy® award-winning director Josh Greenbaum’s feature debut premiered at South by Southwest (SXSW) and won the 2013 Audience Award.  It was Academy qualified in a limited theatrical release through Phase 4 Films and Samuel Goldwyn Films.

“‘The Short Game’ provides a highly entertaining, family friendly and joyful vantage into a unique world that most people fantasize about: being the best in the world at something.  The fact that this dream is pursued by children playing a grownups’ game is intriguing and inspiring,” says Lisa Nishimura, Netflix VP of Original Documentary and Comedy.  “We seek to provide the very best storytelling within the documentary filmmaking category and ‘The Short Game’ is the rare example of a beautifully told and heart-warming tale which appeals to all generations.”

“As a filmmaker, you hope your work will reach as many people as possible and that’s what’s so exciting about partnering with Netflix, who are presenting some of the most original and cutting edge programming on the planet right now,” said director Josh Greenbaum.  “The idea of people all across the world being able to watch the film is a dream come true.”

“The Short Game” is produced by Rafael Marmor, Christopher Leggett, and Josh Greenbaum, and executive produced by Jessica Biel, Justin Timberlake, Timm Oberwelland, John Battsek and David Frankel.

 

Major Model Debuts and Much More Set for The 2013 Miami International Auto Show

AUTO AFICIONADOS WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GET A FIRST LOOK AT HUNDREDS OF 2014 MODEL CARS, TRUCKS, CROSSOVERS, AND SUVS WHEN THE MIAMI INTERNATIONAL SHOW RETURNS TO THE MIAMI BEACH CONVENTION CENTER FOR ITS 43RD ANNUAL RUN

WHERE: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL

WHEN: Friday, November 8th through Sunday, November 17th, 2013

HOURS: Friday, November 8th 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Saturday, November 9th 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Sunday, November 10th 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Monday, November 11th (Veterans Day)11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Tuesday, November 12th 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Wednesday, November 13th 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Thursday, November 14th 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Friday, November 15th 2:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Saturday, November 16th 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; and Sunday, November 17th 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

THE MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW is the first major auto exhibition of the season and is produced by the SOUTH FLORIDA AUTOMOBILE DEALERS ASSOCIATION, a four-county group of 190 new car dealers from The Keys to the Palm Beaches. The 43rd edition of the Miami International Auto Show will be held November 8-17, 2013.

Models from more than 40 manufacturers will be displayed throughout the nearly half million square foot floor along with many of the same special features and exhibits that have made the auto show one of the keynote events of South Florida’s fall season. Miami is considered among the top five in attendance nationally among auto shows.

“South Florida is a top market for introducing new automotive products,” said Mario Murgado, show chairman of this year’s 43rd annual event. “Today’s engineering and technology are adding to efficiency, safety, reliability and value. These cars really offer something for everyone.”

Two vehicles will be making their national auto show debuts in Miami. The CADILLAC ESCALADE, which set the standard for luxury SUVs when it was introduced as a 1999 model, is all new for 2015 as it enters its fourth generation. The 2014 MASERATI GHIBLI SEDAN, first seen as a coupe in the 1960s, is set to spearhead the Italian manufacturer’s ambitious plans to become a fine-line automaker by 2015.

The 2014 CHEVROLET CORVETTE STINGRAY, the Great American sports car that is entering its seventh generation, is the OFFICIAL SHOW CAR FOR THE MIAMI AUTO SHOW. It’s a treat for the eyes and, with an active exhaust system that tunes tone to fit the driver’s mode setting, the ears as well.

It is over 60 years old and moving into its seventh generation, but, like fine wine, quality cheese, and Sophia Loren, the Chevrolet Corvette just gets better with age.

Chevy gave the iconic American sports car a complete makeover for 2014, and show attendees can see the result for themselves when they visit the 43rd annual Miami International Auto Show.

How does the 2014 model stack up to its predecessors? Well, when designers and engineers were finished with it, they gave it the hallowed Stingray badging.

“We didn’t set out to build a Stingray,” says John Fitzpatrick, Chevrolet Performance Cars Marketing Manager. “We set out to build the greatest Corvette we could. It wasn’t until we got done with that that we said, ‘You know, this really does remind everybody of the ’63, in terms of not only in the look of the car but how the car feels and how it reacts.’

“We thought it was natural to add the Stingray name at that point.”

With a new 6.2-liter V8 engine, the 2014 model is the most powerful standard Corvette ever with 455 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque delivered to the rear wheels through either an all-new seven-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. With EPA ratings of 17 miles-per-gallon city and 29 highway, Chevy claims this as the most efficient sports car on the market.

Yet when equipped with the Z51 PERFORMANCE PACKAGE, the 2014 ’Vette will zip from zero-to-60 mph in 3.8 seconds, run the quarter-mile in 12 seconds at 119 mph, and stop from 60 mph in 107 feet.

It’s not just in performance that the 2014 Corvette stands out, however. This is the most-advanced Corvette in technology with five driving modes — Tour (default), Sport, Track, Weather (rain and snow) and Eco (shutting down four cylinders for enhanced fuel economy while highway cruising) — and also the most refined.

Designers wrapped the cabin with premium materials, including carbon fiber, aluminum, and rich leather throughout. The smallest detail is attended to, like precise stitching on the smaller, leather-wrapped steering wheel for a more consistent feel.

Yet even with the improvements, the 2014 Corvette has a starting MSRP of under $52,000 in coupe form with the convertible starting at under $57,000, including destination and delivery charges. All in all, it’s one car you don’t want to miss on your visit to the MIAMI INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

In addition to being able to pore over the vehicles at their leisure, show goers also will be able to get behind the wheel of selected new models from manufacturers like Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Chrysler, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, Scion, Mazda, and Toyota during the show’s Ride & Drive opportunities on weekend hours and Veterans Day (November 11).

Ride and Drive 2012

“There’s no better backdrop at any other auto show in the U.S. than Miami Beach’s famed Ocean Drive,” added Murgado.

Camp Jeep, offering attendees the opportunity for an off-road experience as Jeep experts take riders around a special layout just outside the center, returns and will recognize its one-millionth rider during the course of the show.

Also back will be the nostalgic Havana Classics presented in part by Telemundo 51. Cars that once toured the Cuba’s picturesque roads and backstreets will transport you back in time to the 1950s. A rare, 1936 Ford Cabriolet originally owned by Academy Award winning actress Katharine Hepburn will be among the featured vehicles.

Netflix Makes First Major Acquisition for Its Original Documentary Initiative With “The Square”

JEHANE NOUJAIM’S GRIPPING FRONT-LINE PORTRAIT OF THE EGYPTIAN REVOLUTION PREMIERES IN ALL NETFLIX TERRITORIES IN EARLY 2014

Netflix original documentary “The Square,” a riveting, deeply human chronicle of the Egyptian protest movement from director-producer Jehane Noujaim (“Control Room“; “Startup.com“; “Rafea: Solar Mama“) and producer Karim Amer (“Rafea: Solar Mama“), will premiere exclusively on the world’s leading Internet TV network in all territories where Netflix is available in early 2014 to its over 40 million global members.

Winner of this year’s Toronto International Film Festival Documentary People’s Choice Award, “The Square” is an epic documentary that tells the behind-the-headlines story of the Egyptian Revolution through the eyes of young activists who have sought for the last two years to build a better Egypt. An earlier version of “The Square” won the Audience Award at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival.  The film was also an Official Selection at the 2013 New York Film Festival.

The film captures the immediacy and intensity of the protests in Tahrir Square from the 2011 overthrow of military leader Hosni Mubarak through the ousting of Mohammed Morsi in 2013, providing a kaleidoscopic, visceral portrait of the events as they unfold before Magdy, a member of the Muslim Brotherhood, Khalid Abdalla, an Egyptian actor who played the lead in “The Kite Runner” and the charismatic Ahmed, whose poetic storytelling carries the narrative. Armed with nothing more than cameras, social media, deep consciousness, and a resolute commitment to change, these young revolutionaries give us a front-line perspective of the ongoing struggle fought with new weapons.

“We are thrilled to be presenting an amazing film that brings to life in such a deeply human way one of the most important events of our time,” said Lisa Nishimura, Netflix VP of Original Documentary Programming.  “‘The Square’ is documentary filmmaking at the highest level – a beautifully constructed chronicle of brave people struggling against insurmountable odds to make their country a much better place.   One knows that history is unfolding on the screen before you when watching ‘The Square’. ”

“Our dream for ‘The Square’ is to inspire the hearts of as many people as possible and by working with Netflix, we can insure the film reaches a wide and diverse audience. Nothing about the making of this film has followed the norms and that’s what makes it exciting. It is crucial for us as filmmakers, who have shot a documentary about people risking and losing their lives for their beliefs, to create a spirit of possibility,” said Noujaim. “We see the deep value that Netflix places in this story of a very alive moment in world history and are thrilled they understand the power of this film to move, disrupt and inspire audiences worldwide,” said Amer.

Porsche Macan to Debut at 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show

All-New SUV Model Brings Typical Porsche Qualities to Fastest Growing Market Segment

Porsche (www.porsche.com) is celebrating two world premieres and three North American debuts at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show in a few short weeks. The much anticipated Porsche Macan Compact SUV, the automaker’s fifth model line, will be unveiled to an international audience at the L.A. Convention Center in Petree Hall during the Porsche press conference on Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 11:35 a.m. PST.

Porsche Macan Compact SUV

Additional world debuts include the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet and Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet models. These top-of-the-line, open air 911 sports cars accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.3 and 3.1 seconds respectively, reaching a top track speed of up to 195 mph.

Additionally, the Porsche 918 Spyder will be shown for the first time at an auto show in North America.  This plug-in hybrid super sports car carries the traditional Porsche DNA into a ground-breaking sports car concept. Designed from the start to be a high-performance hybrid, the 918 Spyder offers an unprecedented combination of performance by combining the 887-hp output of a super sports car and the virtually silent propulsion of an electric vehicle. The 918 Spyder is able to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 2.8 seconds and offers extraordinary low fuel consumption.

The Porsche Panamera Turbo S and Porsche Panamera Turbo S Executive models will also be on display shortly after their world debut at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show the same day.  The Turbo S models are the fastest, most powerful and most luxurious models in the Panamera range, offering power output of 570 hp and a top track speed of 192 mph, plus a particularly extensive range of technology and luxury features. For the first time ever, an Executive version of the Panamera Turbo S is available with a wheelbase that is extended by 5.9 inches.

The Los Angeles area is not only home to one of the most important auto shows of the year, it is also Porsche’s most important market with 17 percent of all cars sold in the U.S. Given the Los Angeles area’s proximity to such a large number of Porsche customers, the company is currently building a first of its kind experience center in the area.  At the end of next year, the new Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles will offer a world class test track and handling course, including special surfaces which replicate inclement weather conditions where customers and auto enthusiasts can hone their driving skills and try out the latest Porsche models. The experience center, located in Carson, California, will also be the new home of Porsche Motorsport North America, currently located in Santa Ana, California.

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (www.porsche.com), based in Atlanta, Ga. is the exclusive U.S. importer of Porsche sports cars, the Cayenne SUV and Panamera sports sedan. Established in 1984, it is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Porsche AG, which is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and employs approximately 220 people who provide parts, service, marketing and training for 189 dealers. They, in turn, work to provide Porsche customers with a best-in-class experience that is in keeping with the brand’s 63-year history and leadership in the advancement of vehicle performance, safety and efficiency.

Make Epic Holiday Memories with these 4 EPIC Vodka Recipes

Seasonal Sangria, Irish Coffee, and Dessert Martinis Warm Up Holiday Spirits

All recipes and photos are by Stefanie Bundalo, http://www.sarcasticcooking.com/.

The holidays are right around the corner and EPIC Vodka has some recipe ideas to make your season full of epic memories to last through the New Year.

Made with vodka imported from France, EPIC is inspired by centuries-old distilling traditions and is made with hand-selected wheat harvested from the Champagne region in France. The vodka is distilled in the Cognac region and

Sazerac Co. Introduces New EPIC Vodka. (PRNewsFoto/Sazerac Company)

delivers a clean, crisp taste at an attractive price point.

“The holidays are meant to be shared with family and friends, whether at a party, or just having a friend over to catch up over a cocktail,” said Tracey Clapp, marketing director, vodka. “EPIC Vodka gives consumers an affordable option to serve up delicious tasting drinks, giving you time to sit back and relax and enjoy time with your loved ones.”

Introduced earlier this year, EPIC Vodka is named for the great moments found in our lives. “The holidays are a wonderful opportunity to reflect on what makes the ordinary memorable and to define what epic means to us as individuals,” continued Clapp.

 

EPIC recently received a 92/Excellent/Strongly Recommended rating at the 2013 Ultimate Spirits Competition. The brand is available in 1.75 ml, Liter, 750 ml and 50 ml. Suggested retail pricing for EPIC 750 ml is $12.99.

EPIC VODKA COCONUT MINTINI: Make Epic Holiday Memories with EPIC Vodka's Coconut Mintini. Visit http://www.epicvodka.com for recipe. (PRNewsFoto/EPIC Vodka)

EPIC VODKA ALMOND IRISH: Make your holidays merry with an Almond Irish Coffee from EPIC Vodka. (PRNewsFoto/EPIC Vodka)

EPIC VODKA BERRY SANGRIA: Make your holidays merry with Warm Winter Berry Sangria from EPIC Vodka. (PRNewsFoto/EPIC Vodka)

EPIC VODKA APPLE PIE: Make your holidays merry with an Apple Pie Martini from EPIC Vodka. (PRNewsFoto/EPIC Vodka)

EPIC Holiday Cocktail Recipes:

Warm Winter Berry Sangria – Serves 6-8

• 1, 750 ml Bottle of Red Wine (Cabernet Sauvignon)
• 1/2 Cup EPIC Cherry Vodka
• 2 Tablespoons Honey
• 1/2 Cup Frozen Cranberries
• 1/2 Cup Frozen Berry Medley (Cherries, Blueberries, Raspberries)
• 2 Cloves
• 2 Star Anise
• 1 Cinnamon Stick

PREP: Add all ingredients to a crock pot, stir to combine. Cover with lid, set crockpot to low and cook for four hours or set to high and cook for two hours to mull the flavors. Serve warm.

The Novotel Dubai Al Barsha Opens its Doors

The 42-storey property, Novotel Dubai Al Barsha, is open for business, accepting its first guest, Sunday 10 November. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the four-star hotel has an inventory of 465 guest rooms, five food and beverage outlets, ten meeting rooms and a business centre, not to forget a host of leisure facilities.

The Novotel Dubai Al Barsha opens its doors

The Novotel Dubai Al Barsha, is the latest addition to Dubai’s iconic skyline and is fast becoming a recognized beacon in the city. The innovative hanging gardens that can be seen across the hotel’s façade, signals the fresh approach the hotel takes to how it does business and is a core element of the property’s commitment to sustainable development. 

Choice Hotels’ Ascend Hotel Collection Welcomes Downtown Grand Las Vegas Hotel and Casino to the Family

FIRST NEW HOTEL IN DOWNTOWN LAS VEGAS TO CELEBRATE RIBBON CUTTING ON NOVEMBER 12

The Ascend Hotel Collection (www.ascendcollection.com) from Choice Hotels International, Inc. (www.choicehotels.com), one of the world’s largest hotel companies, added Downtown Grand Las Vegas Hotel & Casino (www.DowntownGrand.com) to its impressive list of upscale hotels.  The Ascend Hotel Collection membership program made its debut in late 2008 and now has 118 hotels open throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, Central America, Australia and the Caribbean.  The eclectic portfolio of upscale, independent hotels appeals to the growing number of people who like to immerse themselves in the destination and live like the locals when they travel.

On October 27, a small group of guests wined, dined and gambled at the new hotel and casino. Las Vegas casino mogul Steve Wynn and his wife Andrea showed their support by placing the first bets.

On November 12, 2013, the hotel’s two towers and casino hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Mayor of Las Vegas and other local dignitaries, and on November 16, local residents and visitors will continue the celebration with a street party “Downtown 3rd presents: Rock the Block” that will include five diverse musical acts on 3rd street and inside the hotel.

The Downtown Grand Las Vegas Hotel & Casino is the anchor and crown jewel of Downtown3rd, the new metropolitan center of Las Vegas. The 18-story Casino Tower and 25-story Grand Tower feature 634 guest rooms ranging in size from 350 to more than 1,200 square feet with high-definition flat-screen televisions, presidential pillow-top mattresses and high-thread count linens, setting a new standard for luxury, sophistication and style in downtown Las Vegas. The exterior design of Downtown Grand blends multiple storefronts with a brick and granite façade and includes multiple indoor/outdoor experiences.  The “industrial chic” interior features the raw energy of a factory juxtaposed with ornate fixtures and canopies.  Downtown Grand offers 25,000 square feet of gaming space: nearly 600 new slot machines and 30 table games and a fully-featured sports book powered by William Hill.

Downtown Grand boasts a variety of unique bars and restaurants providing a wide variety of cuisines and price points. PICNIC, an urban rooftop pool experience, is the property’s signature entertainment/dining venue encompassing more than 35,000 square feet and featuring an infinity-pool,  full restaurant & bar, private cabanas, a fire pit and a grass seating area.  Downtown3rd is just steps away from the world famous Fremont Street Experience and The Mob Museum, within walking distance of Fremont East Entertainment District, and less than one mile from the Las Vegas Premium Outlets and The Smith Center for the Performing Arts.  Downtown Grand Las Vegas is owned by CIM Group and managed by DTG Manager Las Vegas, LLC.  Fifth Street Gaming is the property’s gaming license holder and casino operator.

This hotel became the largest member in the Ascend Hotel Collection, a network of one-of-a-kind upscale properties. Each Ascend hotel is a unique reflection of the distinct character of its host city, yet all offer the same high standards of hospitality and comfort.  Downtown Grand Las Vegas Hotel and Casino does all that and more.

Going Green with LED Fiber Optic Trees

As the Christmas season begins to approach and tree buying season starts to hit full swing, LED FIBER OPTIC CHRISTMAS TREES are gaining in popularity. The site http://www.LEDtrees.com offers many sizes of LED fiber optic Christmas trees. According to the site, users of LED artificial Christmas trees are able to save up to ten times as much energy as traditional trees with incandescent lights would cost.

High quality LED powered Fiber Optic Christmas Trees. (PRNewsFoto/LEDtrees.com)

Shoppers visiting http://www.LEDtrees.com are provided with a variety of options FOR FIBER OPTIC LED ARTIFICIAL CHRISTMAS TREES that range from 2 ft. to 9 ft. in height. Costs range from $49.99 for the 2 ft. tree to $499 for the 9 ft. tree. This tree with matching wreath and garland is as affordable as it is eco-friendly. As the movement to save our planet from environmental hazards continues to grow, shoppers are eager to seek out green products that offer an environmentally sound solution to common problems. With artificial fiber optic trees and LED pre-lit Christmas trees shoppers can make a real difference in their daily carbon footprint. Even scientists are finding that LED pre-lit Christmas trees like the fiber optic trees found on LEDtrees.com are leaving owners with major savings on energy usage.

“I did a little shopping for supposed energy efficient trees. The smallest miniature light found in most stores consumes .4 Watts. That means 12 of these single lights exceeds the total energy of all the LED lights on one of your 4 ft. trees. This calculates to more than 10 times the energy consumption of your LED trees,” notes Lawrence A. Horn, an electrical engineer with a degree from Syracuse who analyzed the new fiber optic LED tree.

With a light that shines brighter than halogen and an energy usage savings of 90% over traditional Christmas trees, it is a good bet that shoppers will be going green in a whole new way this holiday season.

The Latest From David Beckham Bodywear: Lounge And Nightwear Pieces

This holiday season, David Beckham is introducing some key lounging and nightwear pieces to his Bodywear range at H&M, perfect for gifting and wearing all winter long.

Grey merino wool is used for cosy hoodies and drawstring pyjama pants as well as grey beanie, while crewneck long-sleeve waffle tops and waffle long-johns provide a modern take on nostalgic menswear style. The accompanying campaign features David in a traditional East London changing room to add to the old-school feel. “These new pieces in my Bodywear range at H&M would make the ideal gift for any man this Holiday season,” says David.

Endangered Black Rhino Conservation Is Newest ‘Boutique Adventure’ On Crystal African Voyage

Exclusive Excursion Offers Rare Close Encounter with Nearly Extinct Animal

Flying in a helicopter high above South Africa’s lush Maputaland, one can’t help but marvel at the black rhino – classified as “critically endangered” – resting below.  Crystal Cruises’ newest Boutique Adventure promises an ultra-intimate and exclusive, hands-on “Rhino Conservation Experience” in Africa, with tales to tell afterward that could rival any Ernest Hemingway novel.  Offered with Crystal Serenity’s March 10 2014 voyage from Singapore to Cape Town, the excursion makes guests a part of the vital local tracking and protection efforts that are fighting to keep the animal from extinction.  From helping locate rhinoceroses to notching their ears while anesthetized (enabling researchers to identify the animal and aide in the repopulation process), participants will assist the expert anti-poaching team from beginning to end.

Africa’s black rhino. (PRNewsFoto/Crystal Cruises)

“How many times in one’s life do you get to stand right next to a one-ton+ wild animal in Africa, and feel its skin, study its valued horn, and know you’re part of an effort that will hopefully help this creature, and its descendants, survive?” says John Stoll, vice president of land programs.  “This is an experience that, both on a personal level and a larger, macro level, promises to be beyond rewarding and memorable – and that has been created exclusively for Crystal cruisers.”

Crystal’s “Rhino Conservation Experience” is available only to guests also participating in Crystal’s mid-cruise, off-ship Overland Adventure to the Phinda Private Game Reserve.  The Overland Adventure, which departs from Durban and returns to Port Elizabeth, features two nights of luxury accommodations and game drives in search of lions, elephants, buffalo and leopards.  The line’s Boutique Adventure collection, first introduced in January, features shoreside experiences that are extremely limited in participation and not available with any other cruise line.

The 21-day sailing departs Singapore for Jakarta, Indonesia; Mauritius/Port Louis, Republic of Mauritius; Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town (overnight), South Africa, with a two-night, inclusive pre-cruise program to Bangkok and Cambodia beginning on March 7.  Cruise-only fares start at $7,520 per person if booked by January 3, 2014.  The “Rhino Conservation Experience” is $1,287 per person. For more information and Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent, call 888-799-4625, or visit www.crystalcruises.com.

Celebrate The Holidays At H&M With A New Campaign And Giving Gift Cards

This holiday, H&M celebrates the season with a brand new campaign which invites the whole family to share the fun of a mansion house party. The campaign stars Christy Turlington, Doutzen Kroes, Liu Wen and Sean O’Pry are all part of the H&M family, dressed for the season in nonchalant glamour for women, or sharp tuxes for men. There’s also looks for party nights out, and the best times spent relaxing with friends and family. This season H&M is also giving everyone the chance to help less fortunate with special giving gift cards for WaterAid.

Paul Simon & Sting: On Stage Together

Live Nation Global Touring announced that Paul Simon & Sting, two of music’s most renowned and enduring artists, will embark on a concert tour throughout North America in February and March 2014. Both of these artists have explored world rhythms and pushed the boundaries of popular music, and through their music, continue to speak to generations of fans. Now, Paul Simon & Sting will perform a series of concerts On Stage Together. Tickets (itinerary below) will go on sale beginning Tuesday, Nov. 12.

Paul Simon and Sting to perform On Stage Together. (PRNewsFoto/Live Nation Entertainment, Theo Wargo/WireImage)

As friends for many years, their collaboration on a tour is a natural fit. At each performance, audiences will be treated to the unique pleasure of experiencing these two innovative musicians On Stage Together, in addition to solo performances with their respective bands, in what will surely be one of the most highly-anticipated concert events of 2014.

“We are thrilled to be bringing together these iconic artists,” said Arthur Fogel, president – global touring and chairman – global music, Live Nation. “As individual artists, Paul and Sting have had a diverse and unique history, and I suspect the challenge for both of these prolific songwriters will indeed be narrowing down the song choices.”

Tickets for Paul Simon & Sting: On Stage Together will go on sale to the general public beginning Tuesday, Nov. 12. The artists’ fans will have had access to a pre-sale through their respective official websites, starting Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 10AM local time.  American Express® Card Members will have an opportunity to purchase tickets before the general public

PAUL SIMON & STING: ON STAGE TOGETHER North American Tour Itinerary 2014

Feb. 8   Houston, TX        Toyota Center            On sale Nov. 18            10 a.m.

Feb. 9   Dallas, TX         American Airlines Center On sale Nov. 18       10 a.m.

Feb. 11  Denver, CO         Pepsi Center             On sale Nov. 18               10 a.m.

Feb. 15  Los Angeles, CA    Forum                    On sale Nov. 12              10 a.m.

Feb. 17  San Jose, CA       SAP Center at San Jose   On sale Nov. 12    10 a.m.

Feb. 19  Seattle, WA        Key Arena                On sale Nov. 18               10 a.m.

Feb. 20  Vancouver, BC      Rogers Arena             On sale Nov. 12         10 a.m.

Feb. 23  St. Paul, MN       Xcel Energy Center       On sale Nov. 18         10 a.m.

Feb. 25  Chicago, IL        United Center            On sale Nov. 12              10 a.m.

Feb. 26  Detroit, MI         The Palace of Auburn Hills  On sale Nov. 18                10 a.m.

Feb. 28  Montreal, QC       Bell Centre              On sale Nov. 12                              10 a.m.

March 1  Toronto, ON        Air Canada Centre        On sale Nov. 12     10 a.m.

March 4  New York City, NY  Madison Square Garden    On sale Nov. 12         10 a.m.

March 7  Philadelphia, PA   Wells Fargo Center       On sale Nov. 12    10 a.m.

March 9  Hershey, PA        Giant Center             On sale Nov. 12            10 a.m.

March 13 Washington, DC     Verizon Center           On sale Nov. 18    10 a.m.

March 15 Ft. Lauderdale, FL BB&T Center              On sale Nov. 18   10 a.m.

March 16 Orlando, FL        Amway Center             On sale Nov. 18       10 a.m.

For complete tour and artist information, visit: www.simonandstingtour.com; www.livenation.com; www.sting.com; www.paulsimon.com

Patron Spirits Introduces New Designer Collaboration: Patron Anejo Adorned with David Yurman Limited Edition Bottle Stopper

For the second time in a series of designer collaborations, Patron Spirits (www.patronspirits.com) introduces a limited edition bottle stopper for this holiday season. The new collectible bottle accessory is crafted exclusively for Patron Anejo by Evan Yurman, Chief Design Director for David Yurman men’s and timepiece collections.

Patron Anejo featuring the limited edition David Yurman bottle stopper. (PRNewsFoto/Patron Spirits)

Die-cast in solid metal and electroplated in gun metal and 24K gold, the bottle stopper is an exceptional two-toned sword featuring elaborate metal carvings inspired by those depicted on the hand guards of 18th century Japanese Samurai swords; a reflection of Yurman’s love for unique and rare objects, artwork and artifacts. Like Patron Anejo, Yurman’s bottle stopper is bold, intricate and truly distinct.

“It was a thrill to work with Patron on this unique project,” said Yurman. “Throughout time, armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical ability of the artisans who craft them. For me, there is an inseparable parallel between a finely honed weapon and a beautifully crafted piece of jewelry – they are truly one in the same and a natural extension of the work that inspires me.” This inspiration is unmistakable in the one-of-a-kind, sophisticated design Yurman created to adorn the iconic bottle of Patron Anejo.

Patron tequila is an ultra-premium luxury white spirit that’s delicious on the rocks, and mixes flawlessly into most any cocktail. From the highest-quality Weber Blue agave plants grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, to the centuries-old distillation process, to the handcrafted glass bottles, Patron is produced with unparalleled attention to detail. Imported and marketed by The Patron Spirits Company, brands in the portfolio consist of Gran Patron Burdeos, Gran Patron Piedra, Gran Patron Platinum, Patron Silver, Patron Reposado, Patron Anejo, Patron XO Cafe (coffee liqueur), Patron XO Cafe Dark Cocoa (coffee and chocolate liqueur), and Patron Citronge (extra fine orange liqueur), as well as Pyrat Caribbean rums, and Ultimat ultra-premium vodka.

Patron Anejo is a delicate blend of uniquely aged tequilas, all aged in small white oak barrels for a minimum of 12 months. Similar to winemaking, each vintage of Patron Anejo is carefully blended to produce a smooth and distinctive-tasting tequila. Each bottle of Patron Anejo is handcrafted with recycled glass and produced with unparalleled attention to detail.

The bottle stopper, which comes in a special limited edition gift box, will be available at select retailers across the U.S. in November 2013 for a suggested retail price of $59.99.

NICE Laundry Socks: Christmas Every Day for your Feet

Images provided by www.nicelaundry.com

Are you a sock guy? I am. Like Ruffles potato chips and the monthly fashion magazines that come in the mail like clockwork, I can never have enough socks. I live in them 24/7. The crazier the pattern, the more I love them. Easter Bunny sock? Got them. Christmas sock? Ditto. Hanukah socks? Bingo. Let me put this way; I will never, ever run out clean socks. Ever.

Chief Collection

Dreamer Collection

Exec Collection

Also like many of you, I had god-awful relationship with my sock drawer(s); boring colors (too many black and brown dress socks–and not enough places to wear them), missing socks and worn-out pairs (especially white socks) and not enough fun socks that will put a playful step in my day, even if I am the only one who knows it.

Never fear, the folks at Nice Laundry has the Nice Laundry Sock Collection to make it easy for everyone to refresh their sock drawers with just a few clicks– and you won’t have to take out a second mortgage on the house to pay for them. Their socks are badass because they obsess over every detail and meticulously craft each pair from the finest raw materials (a combination of Combed cotton/Nylon/Spandex) with the proprietary Microlast™ process designed to reduce shrinkage from cuff tension to heel pocket depth.  And we haven’t even gotten to the crazy-mad patterns and prints represented within the overall line.

Ladies Man Collection

Visionary Collection

Wild Child Collection

Nice Laundry has six collections ($39 each set of six), consisting of premium cotton blends socks with funky names such as From “LADIES MAN”, “Wild Child”, “Chief”, Visionary”, “dreamer”, and “Exec”. With such a wide selection, every man can embrace inner wild child, Ladies Man and Visionary to his heart’s content. Each pair fits US shoe sizes Medium 7-13 and Wide 8-14.

If you are shopping for your husband, boyfriend or even yourself (because women will love them as well) and don’t exactly know their taste, don’t fret. Give them the gift of choice with a NICE LAUNDRY Gift Card ($25, $75, $100). Gift cards are delivered electronically via email and contain redemption instructions, with no additional processing fees.

Best of all, the company believes in second chances. Every Nice Laundry order is eligible for a prepaid shipping label, on them. Simply send them your old socks in the re-usable mailer your order came in and they take care of the rest. Nice Laundry have partnered with one of the nation’s oldest and largest textile recyclers to make sure your old socks are recycled responsibly and efficiently.

The US is on track to generate 35 billion pounds of textile waste by 2019, one of the fastest growing waste products in the world. Fortunately, textiles are also one of the most recyclable waste products. Recycling a pair of socks can save up to 17 gallons of water and 66 BTU’s of energy. Now imagine what your old sock drawer can do. Once your socks arrive, they undergo a grading process. The top-tier of socks will be cleaned up and sent to areas of need. The balance will either be repurposed as textile or shredded into fibers and turned into things like home insulation, depending on condition.

The sock collections at Nice Laundry are available online at www.nicelaundry.com

Tory Burch Opens Rodeo Drive Flagship: New Boutique Reflects LA’s Easy Glamour

Images Provided by Tory Burch LLC

Tory Burch LLC announces the opening of its first West Coast flagship at 366 North Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills in November. This is the company’s fourth boutique in Los Angeles and its thirteenth in California.

Tory Burch Rodeo Drive Flagship Boutique – Exterior

Reflecting the easy glamour that defines Los Angeles, the three-story, 4700-square-foot space has been custom designed by Tory Burch and architect Daniel Romualdez to create a residential feel. A brass fretwork facade inspired by Chinese Chippendale sets the tone for a beautiful and intimate interior where abaca rugs, brown lacquer walls and cane tables provide a neutral backdrop for seafoam drapes, teal velvet sofas and blue-and-white porcelain.

Tory Burch Rodeo Drive Flagship Boutique – VIP Floor

Decorative elements feel elegant yet laidback — gold leaf peony wallpaper mixed with white coral sconces; a Madeleine Castaing carpet in an oak-paneled room; and a velvet sofa under an antique tile mirror Tory discovered in Morocco. The flagship has several unique spaces as well, from a private VIP room for shopping to a terrace with a working fireplace and living room, blurring the line between indoors and out.

Tory Burch Rodeo Drive Flagship Boutique – Interior

“Rodeo Drive is so iconic to Los Angeles,” says CEO and designer Tory Burch. “From a global perspective, it is also very important for our brand.”

In celebration of the opening there will be a home collection exclusive to the Rodeo Drive flagship, including needlepoint pillows, brass frames, handmade boxes and pieces for entertaining. The entire Tory Burch collection will also be available, including ready-to-wear, handbags, shoes, jewelry, small leather goods, swimwear, accessories and the new fragrance and beauty collection with Estee Lauder.