Ravensburger Puts Pieces in Place for Non-Stop Family Fun with Expansive New 2014 Collection

Kids nationwide are in store for tons of fun when Ravensburger, the leader in top-quality puzzles and playthings, unwraps its latest line-up of  “picture-perfect” puzzles, engaging multi-player games, ex-sci-ting Science X® kits, and more. Ravensburger’s full slate for 2014 will be showcased at the American International Toy Fair, February 16-19, 2014, Javits Convention Center, Booth #451.

Puzzles
Puzzle fun takes on a new dimension with these latest additions to Ravensburger’s best-selling 3D Building assortment:

• Light-Up Empire State Building – The dazzling new 216-pc 3D Building puzzle lights up the night with LED rainbow of colors – red, orange, yellow, green and purple – to resemble the world-famous building’s ever-changing light show!
• Tula Moon – Colorful and whimsical Tula Moon artwork adorns these 216-pc stunners, Tula Moon: Pisa Tower, Tula Moon: Big Ben and Tula Moon: Eiffel Tower.
• Complete Puzzle Set – Everything needed for a display-worthy piece of puzzle art comes “complete” in this new line! Each puzzle features a box that starts as an assembly surface and then transforms into an integrated frame. The new 500-pc offerings – New York Colors, South Seas Flair, Colorful Oceanand Boutique Street – include puzzle glue and even picture hangers!

Games
Family game night will be more memorable than ever with these new offerings to help everyone “get into the game”:

• Spy Tag – Kids and families will take off on an exhilarating race to spot and tag the spies before time’s up! Players quickly draw spy cards and slap them on the matching agent cards laid out in front of their teammates in this super-fast-paced game. Anyone caught with a match when the timer goes off, draws from the secret pile to find out who is safe.
• Dream Cakes – Players work on multiple cakes at once and judge finished creations to earn blue ribbon points in this bakery-inspired competition. Thousands of possible designs mean different delicious outcomes every time!
• Scotland Yard – In this redrafted covert game of cat and mouse set on the streets of London, a team of detectives attempts to catch escaped criminal mastermind Mister X. Players use taxis, buses, and the underground to track down the elusive Mister X before he disappears into the London fog! Now with an exciting version for two players.

Science X®
Ravensburger adds to its sci-sational, award-winning Science X line of success-based science discovery kits with these exciting debuts:

• Dinosaurs – Young archaeologists create their own fossils, excavate a Megalosaurus tooth, build a T-Rex skeleton, and more with this dino discovery adventure they’ll really “dig!” The activity set includes the supplies needed to complete six science-centered adventures.
• Fueling Future Cars – This new automotive engineering kit will get kids’ minds racing! The high-revving set comes with all the tools they need to build their own mini electric Mercedes-Benz and “steer” their way through nine science-based activities.

Arts & Crafts
New kits in Ravensburger’s popular Aquarelle® range of watercolor painting sets will “draw” out young artists’ creative side. Available in three different sizes, each kit includes paints and outlined canvases along with useful tools and instructions. They include:

• Fish and Turtle – Perfect for beginner artists, children can select from two underwater-themed canvases. Each set includes one canvas and three paint colors.
• Monet – This artist-inspired series of well-known water lily scenes includes three different canvases and five watercolor paints.

Mandala-Designer® Kits
Ravensburger gives children the power to transform an ordinary sidewalk into an awesome work of art with itsOutdoor Mandala-Designer kits, and create gorgeous new designs anywhere with its Original Mandala-Designer offerings. Among the newest sets are:

• Outdoor Mandala-Designer, Happy Ocean – Kids will be happy as clams making their own under-the-sea world with the stencil and sidewalk chalks included in this kit!
• Original Mandala-Designer, Fashion – Budding fashionistas can create the designs of their dreams with this fashion-focused set, which includes a frame, large and small stencil, paper, felt-tip pen and colored pencils.

Newton, NH-based Ravensburger is the U.S. subsidiary of Ravensburger Spieleverlag GmbH, a German toy and game manufacturer with a 130-year history of tradition. Founded in Ravensburg, Germany in 1883, Ravensburger is a leading producer of toys loved the world over and celebrated for its meticulous commitment to detail, high production standards and superior quality control. In addition to Ravensburger-branded puzzles, games, science kits and arts & crafts, the company holds licenses for well-known brands such as Thomas & Friends™, Mike the Knight™, The Hobbit™, and more

Revolutionary Kick Scooter Solves the Five Most Common Scooter Challenges and is Primed to Debut at Toy Fair 2014

The winter weather’s about to heat up with the introduction of the Sbyke A20—a radically different kick scooter that solves the top five headaches posed by other popular scooters—when this new product debuts at the 2014 American International Toy Fair in New York.

The Sbyke family of scooters is an entirely new category of boardsport that’s catching fire. Kids and adventure-seeking adults haven’t let this year’s slick ice and snow mounds spoil the fun. In fact, when Shenaya Shannon of MindWare received a Sbyke for review she said, “My son loves it!  He rode around the office; too bad it’s below zero outside. If only I could keep my co-workers off it!”

Sbyke USA’s innovative line of kick scooters is a cross between a bicycle and a skateboard. Riders most often describe the experience as similar to the sensation of skiing or surfing, but without ever leaving the sidewalk. The Sbyke A20 is the third model in this popular line of kick scooters.

Sbyke is engineered to overcome the five most common challenges posed by other kick scooters. Here’s how:

• BMX front tire rolls easily over cracks and ruts unlike the small front wheels on other scooters and skateboards that can sometimes cause riders to flip or wipe-out
• Wide maple skateboard deck offers plenty of room for side-by-side foot placement so riders have better balance, control and comfort
• Self-standing design means no more fallen scooters at risk of being run over in the driveway
• The quick action of the hand-brake provides added safety and control
• The maneuverability provided by Sbyke’s patented rear-steering enables riders to execute a 360-degree turn within the width of most sidewalks

These five solutions make riding a lot more fun while allowing moms around the world to breathe a sigh of relief.

The new Sbyke A20 offers all the fun of the original Sbyke Pro20 at less than half the price. The appeal of the A20 struck a chord with Walmart, which is offering this fun new ride that carves like a skateboard and coasts like a bike at more than 200 stores in the U.S. According to Bart Wilson of Sbyke USA, “We listened to the marketplace. People of all ages are nuts about Sbyke, but many moms expressed the need for a value-priced model that still offered all the fun. We’ve achieved that with the Sbyke A20.”

Sbyke USA, LLC was formed in the boardsport mecca of San Clemente, California by beach locals Brad Wernli and brothers Bart and Steve Wilson. The Wilsons’ legendary history of motorsport products and Wernli’s vision of a quick-carving beach cruiser came together as the patented sbyke^® rear-steer^™ platform. This category of compact sports transports will support designs from kick scooters to electric runabouts. The company is headquartered at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway in Nevada. Learn more at www.sbyke.com.

ISAAC MIZRAHI PARTNERS WITH THE MADAME ALEXANDER DOLL COMPANY FOR THE DESIGNERʼS FIRST EVER DOLL COLLECTION

The Madame Alexander Doll Company is honored to collaborate with Isaac Mizrahi, one of the top names in fashion, on a new collection of dolls, doll apparel and accessories. Since Madame Alexanderʼs first collection, fashion has always been integral in the creation of the brandʼs iconic dolls. For decades, the dolls have captured the chic trends from Paris to New York, and now continue the long-honored tradition of working with famous designers with a new partnership with Isaac Mizrahi New York.

“Dolls have a special place in my heart. In a way, I began my design career with dolls. When I was a young, I would use my dadʼs sewing machines to create little puppet dolls. Now, itʼs coming full circle by working with Madame Alexander. They have always represented the highest-quality and most beautiful dolls in the world,” says Isaac Mizrahi.

Madame Alexander/Isaac Mizrahi Classic Iconic – Limited Edition $199.95

The doll collection will consist of both limited-edition collectibles and 18-inch play dolls. True to both brands, this iconic collection illustrates that the “love is in the details.” The dolls will be available in June 2014 at specialty and department stores as well as select websites including http://www.madamealexander.com.

Isaac Mizrahi Modern Iconic – Limited Edition $999.95
This fully articulated 21″ collectible iconic “Cissy” doll is dressed in a modern iconic dress inspired by one of Isaac’s recent designs, an elegant red and pink satin dress with self belt. An outfit is incomplete without the perfect accessories – this doll is styled head to toe with sunglasses, a watch, bracelet and clutch that are based on accessories from the Isaac Mizrahi New York Collection. If you peek under Cissyʼs skirt, she is wearing polka dot panties and crinoline. The doll comes with an illustration card drawn by Isaac Mizrahi.

Isaac Mizrahi Classic Iconic – Limited Edition $199.95
Based on a classic lsaac Mizrahi runway look, 16″ “Alex” doll is dressed in a white ribbed tee shirt and long “Isaac pink” taffeta ball skirt with a pink tulle underslip. Topped with a short orange and pink striped puffer jacket and brown faux fur trapper hat, this classic is completed with black motorcycle boots. The doll comes with an illustration card drawn by Isaac Mizrahi.

Isaac Mizrahi Glamour in Lace $69.95
This 18″ Isaac Mirzahi designed doll has light skin, blue eyes, long silky blonde hair pulled back with a fancy black satin headband, perfect for hours of styling fun, plus she has a soft huggable body for lots of hugs! She is ready to play and arrives wearing a gold metallic dress and coordinating golden brown metallic jacket with a leopard plush belt with matching black ballet flats.

Isaac Mizrahi Hooray $69.95
This 18″ Isaac Mirzahi designed doll has light skin, brown eyes, long silky brown hair with side bangs styled in a loose up ‘do for hours of playtime fun, plus she has a soft huggable body for lots of hugs! She is ready to play and arrives wearing a “HOORAY” pink and golden knit sweater hoodie over a pink shiny party dress, golden ballet flats and is sporting a pair of iconic Isaac Mizrahi logoed black sunglasses.

Isaac Mizrahi Cutie $69.95
This 18″ Isaac Mirzahi designed doll has light skin, blue eyes, long silky blonde hair pulled back with a metallic silver ribbon, perfect for hours of styling fun, plus she has a soft huggable body for lots of hugs! She is ready to play and arrives wearing a “CUTIE” blue cropped shirt over a blue and white gingham button-down, paired with a navy and white polka-dot skirt with coordinating blue sparkly sneakers plus she is sporting a pair of iconic Isaac Mizrahi logoed black sunglasses.

Isaac Mizrahi Wild About Leopard $69.95
This 18″ Isaac Mirzahi designed doll has dark brown skin, brown eyes, curly black hair pulled back with a metallic gold bowed headband, perfect for hours of styling fun, plus she has a soft huggable body for lots of hugs! She is ready to play and arrives wearing a leopard knit print shirt and skirt trimmed in gold with a black and gold lined stretch velvet hoodie and gold Mary Janeʼs, plus she is sporting a pair of iconic Isaac Mizrahi logoed black sunglasses. Your girl will love this new fun fashion doll..

About Isaac Mizrahi
Isaac Mizrahi has been a leader in the fashion industry for almost 30 years. Since his first collection in 1987, Mr.Mizrahiʼs designs have come to stand for timeless, cosmopolitan style. He has been awarded four CFDA awards, including a special award in 1996 for the groundbreaking documentary “Unzipped.” Mr. Mizrahi recently launched the Isaac Mizrahi New York collection at better retailers in Fall 2012 and Spring 2013. Previously, in December 2009, Mr. Mizrahi launched his exclusive lifestyle collection, ISAACMIZRAHILIVE! on QVC. In addition, television audiences have come to value Isaacʼs media presence through his roles on “Project Runway All Stars” for Lifetime, “The Fashion Show” for Bravo and his own series for both Oxygen and the Style Network.
http://www.isaacmizrahi.com.

Since the companyʼs inception in 1923 by Madame Beatrice Alexander in New York City, the vision of this talented and entrepreneurial woman to engage a childʼs imagination through doll play has been upheld to inspire girls of all ages across generations to have fun, develop, learn, and imagine. The Alexander Doll Company and Madame Alexander brands of dolls today uphold that vision and encourage girls of all ages to enjoy a lifetime of doll related fun, gifting, and collecting with products that include baby, fashion, play, and limited-edition dolls that are beautifully designed and age-appropriate keepsakes of quality and craftsmanship. Madame Alexander today also continues the tradition of licensing collaborations with classic literary characters including Disney®, Wizard of Oz®, Gone with the Wind®, Fancy Nancy®, Pinkalicious®, Angelina Ballerina®, and other partnerships. In 2012 Madame Alexander became an affiliate of Kahn Lucas Lancaster, Inc.

Madame Alexander dolls and related accessories are available in all tiers of retail distribution in the US and select markets internationally as well as directly online. To learn more about the new Issac Mizrahi Collection, Madame Alexander brands and The Alexander Doll Company, visit www.madamealexander.com

RED ROOSTER TOY COMPANY LAUNCHES NEW BEACH STAMPS TOYS

The newly founded Red Rooster Toy Company, LLC debuts Beach STAMPS, a new brand of patent-pending, ingeniously designed beach toys at the 111th annual American International Toy Fair at Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City (February 16-19).

Beach STAMPS is the creation of Red Rooster’s Founder and CEO, Gary Fallowes, a successful consumer products inventor who brought to market the world’s original and highly popular BeaterBlade® – a breakthrough, patented mixer attachment for electric stand mixers that automatically scrapes the bowl for thorough mixing results. Established in 2013, Red Rooster Toy Company is based in Duncansville, PA and has offices in New York City.

Red Rooster Toy Company Beach Stamps

Made in the U.S.A., Beach STAMPS are cleverly designed, square-shaped impression stamps in a variety of creative designs that can be strapped to hands or feet for endless fun at the beach. Targeting children ages 4-10 years old, Beach STAMPS allow kids to stamp pictures, create patterns, play interactively and design their own unique scenes on the largest canvas in the world – a shoreline’s beach – as well as their favorite play area sandbox.

“It’s estimated that one billion people go to the beach annually,” says Gary Fallowes, Founder and CEO of Red Rooster Toy Company. “We’re tapping into a huge cultural pastime with a unique toy that’s extremely appealing to our target age group. The benefits of Beach STAMPS to both kids and their parents are truly multi-fold, and we’re thrilled to offer the toy industry a breakthrough line that is meticulously designed, with attractive packaging and accessible pricing.”

Beach STAMPS utilize the principal of “negative line art” to allow children to easily create precise images on moist sand with full mastery and satisfaction. Highly rewarding to young children, each sturdily designed stamp attaches quickly and comfortably to hands or feet using latex-free, UV-resistant EPDM rubber bands that are included in each pack. For added creativity and design exploration drawing thin or thick lines, a safe, double beveled wooden sand stylus comes with each pack. All products are made in the U.S.A.

Durable, non-toxic, comfortable, and easy to clean, Beach STAMPS encourage young minds to explore their “inner Picasso” with toys that are lightweight, easily transportable in beach bags, economical, and highly collectible. Interactive games like Tic-Tac-Toe and Rock/Paper/Scissors keep kids busy for hours.

Beach STAMPS launches with seven theme packs featuring 6-8 stamps in a rainbow of bright colors, along with a larger 15-stamp Variety pack. The seven themes include: Fantasy, Cowboy, Space, Interactive, Animals, and Fun Shapes. Pricing is $12.95 each theme pack, and $15.95 for the Variety pack.

New Beach STAMPS will be available at retail nationwide in April 2014. For information and sales orders, please call the company’s toll-free customer service number: 1-800-624-1526. For more information on Beach STAMPS, please visit: www.beachstamps.com.

Calling All Kids: Get Ready For The Happy’s™! Amazingly Adorable, Remarkably Real Pets That Really Play With You!

Meet The Happy’s™, the amazingly adorable and remarkably real new line of interactive motorized plush pets introduced this week at the 111^th annual American International Toy Fair®. Appealing to both girls and boys, The Happy’s are the only line of interactive puppy and kitty special feature plush pets that play, can be trained to perform tricks and make 25+ silly sounds. Play “keep away” or roll The Happy’s ball and watch them chase after it. Hold the Happy’s treat and they’ll come running. Each treat prompts your pet to perform a different trick like beg, pounce, follow, chase tail or spin. All Happy’s treats work with any Happy’s pet – so the more treats, the more tricks the Happy’s will do! From the imagination of ZhuZhu Pets® toymaker Cepia, LLC, The Happy’s are scampering onto shelves this spring, just in time for Easter.

The Happy’s™ – 4 pups on white

“With The Happy’s, we wanted pets that would really play with you and these little guys do that and more,” said James Russell Hornsby, CEO of Cepia LLC. “We captured the playful unpredictability of a puppy, a ball and a treat and multiplied it! The Happy’s play with you and with one another – get them in a group and witness a pet-palooza of pure magic.”

“Heeere Happy’s™”
Featuring the playful charm of a real puppy or kitty, The Happy’s give boys and girls the pet they’ve always wanted with a magical twist. Just like a real pet, they can be trained to perform tricks and their play is unpredictable. Their world is magical, a little silly and, most of all, lots of fun.

Grammy® Winner Alicia Keys To Introduce New Interactive Storytelling App “Mookey” At The 111th American International Toy Fair

Keys Combines Music with Imaginative Play in The Journals of Mama Mae & LeeLee’s Latest Series App

Grammy Award-winning artist Alicia Keys attended the 111th American International Toy Fair on Sunday, February 16th, 2014 to cut the ceremonial ribbon and take part in a press conference following the opening ceremony.  The press conference included a question and answer session and introduced the new interactive storytelling app “Mookey,” the latest extension of her magical children’s property The Journals of Mama Mae & LeeLee.

Singer/songwriter/producer, entrepreneur, humanitarian and app co-creator Alicia Keys, along with Jessica Walton, have teamed up with Bento Box Interactive to develop a series of storytelling app experiences for tablet and mobile devices under the The Journals of Mama Mae & LeeLee franchise. The apps engage children 4+ on an interactive journey through stories, journaling, games and beautiful, original music scored by Keys instilling important values for the target audience.

Mama Mae, voiced by Della Reese, is a grandmother who guides her granddaughter LeeLee through each vibrantly illustrated story.  Through the strength of her personality, Mama Mae and her stories inspire and enlighten children of all ages.  The important and special bond between grandparents and their little loved ones is emphasized in this family oriented app.

“Mookey” is the newest installment in the Mama Mae series, and this particular story touches on self-acceptance and bullying in a meaningful way.  In the story, children will be introduced to Bali, an imaginative boy, his not-so-imaginary-friend, Mookey and his pushy cousin, Ankita. As they follow along, children will learn about courage, acceptance, and forgiveness in the face of bullying.  The app has the ability to facilitate conversation on the issue among families, children, as well as teachers. Thought-provoking and empowering, the Mookey” app is a tool that uses creative play to help youth positively express themselves through a range of interactive activities. 

RESTAURATEUR EXTRAORDINAIRE SIRIO MACCIONI NAMED 2014 JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNER

The James Beard Foundation announced that Sirio Maccioni, one of New York’s  most celebrated restaurateurs, will be the recipient of the 2014 James Beard Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award. The annual honor is bestowed upon a person in the industry whose lifetime body of work has had a positive and long-lasting impact on the way we eat, cook, and think about food in America. Sirio Maccioni will be honored at this year’s James Beard Foundation Awards, the culinary industry’s most prestigious

James Beard Foundation Awards

recognition program, on Monday, May 5, 2014 at Lincoln Center in New York City.

The 2014 James Beard Foundation Awards Ceremony and Gala Reception will take place at Lincoln Center in New York City on  Monday, May 5, 2014. During the event, which is open to the public, awards for the Restaurant and Chef and Restaurant Design categories will be handed out, along with special achievement awards including Humanitarian of the Year, Lifetime Achievement, Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America, and America’s Classics. A gala reception will immediately follow, featuring top chefs and beverage professionals from across the country.

“Our Foundation is delighted to be honoring Sirio Maccioni whose hospitality is legend,” said Susan Ungaro, president of the James Beard Foundation. “Charming guests and indulging their palates for nearly half a century, Sirio has not only set a precedent for fine dining but helped launch the careers of some of the country’s most talented chefs. The James Beard Foundation looks forward to celebrating Sirio Maccioni ‘s continued legacy on our culinary world,” she added.

Born and raised in the Tuscan town of Montecatini Terme, Sirio developed a love for the culinary world while attending restaurant and hotel training programs in Paris and Hamburg. After a series of apprenticeships in Montecatini and Paris, he held various positions at hotels and restaurants in Italy, France, and Germany before moving to the United States. Once in New York, he quickly settled in and developed a loyal following at the historic Wall Street eatery Delmonico’s. From there he made his way to the renowned Colony restaurant where, as maître d’, he became an institution amongst the who’s who of New York. In March of 1974, Sirio achieved his life-long dream of opening his own restaurant, Le Cirque, in the Mayfair hotel. Le Cirque was the first privately owned hotel restaurant in the city and quickly became the hub of café society in New York. In 1997, the restaurant moved from the Mayfair to the gilded setting of the New York Palace Hotel and the landmark Villard Houses, under the name of Le Cirque 2000, where it remained until 2004. In May 2006, Sirio re-opened Le Cirque in its current home at One Beacon Court.

The James Beard Foundation announced that Sirio Maccioni, one of New York’s most celebrated restaurateurs, will be the recipient of the 2014 James Beard Foundation Lifetime Achievement Award.

A love for the restaurant world runs in the Maccioni family and Sirio’s three sons have followed their father into the restaurant business. In 1996 the family opened a casual version of Le Cirque called Circo in New York City; this was soon followed by the 1998 opening of Circo and Le Cirque in Las Vegas’s Bellagio Hotel. In 2009 Sirio, along with his sons, opened their third Las Vegas restaurant, Sirio Ristorante at the Aria Resort and Casino Las Vegas. In addition to three Las Vegas restaurants, the Maccioni family has expanded globally, opening restaurants in the Dominican Republic (La Cana Restaurant & Lounge by Il Circo and the Beach Club by Le Cirque both at the exclusive Casa de Campo Resort) and India (Le Cirque at The Leela Palace New Delhi and Le Cirque Signature at The Leela Mumbai). Later in 2014, they will be opening their first restaurants in the Middle East with Circo at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi and Le Cirque at The Ritz Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre, both in the United Arab Emirates). The Maccioni family has also partnered with Holland America Line cruises to offer “An Evening at Le Cirque” in the Pinnacle Grill aboard its fleet of 15 world-class ships, and, in October 2012, Sirio opened the eponymous restaurant, Sirio Ristorante at The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York. 

MATT HALEY, DEDICATED RESTAURATEUR AND PHILANTHROPIST, NAMED 2014 JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR

The James Beard Foundation has announced that Matt Haley, a Delaware-based chef, restaurateur and global philanthropist, has been named the recipient of the 2014 James Beard Foundation Humanitarian of the Year Award. This esteemed award is given to an individual or organization whose work in the realm of food has improved the lives of others and benefited society at large. Matt Haley will be honored at this year’s James Beard Awards, the culinary industry’s most prestigious recognition program, on Monday, May 5, 2014 at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City.

Founded in 1986, the James Beard Foundation‘s mission is to celebrate, nurture, and honor America’s diverse culinary

James Beard Foundation Awards

heritage through programs that educate and inspire. A cookbook author and teacher with an encyclopedic knowledge about food, James Beard, who died in 1985, was a champion of American cuisine. He helped educate and mentor generations of professional
chefs and food enthusiasts, instilling in them the value of wholesome, healthful and delicious food. Today the Beard Foundation continues in the same spirit by administering a number of diverse programs that include educational initiatives, food industry awards, scholarships for culinary students, publications, chef advocacy training, and thought-leader convening. The Foundation also maintains the historic James Beard House in New York City’s Greenwich Village as a “performance space” for visiting chefs. In September of 2012, the Foundation launched the Diplomatic Culinary Partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Protocol and helped create the American Chef Corps as a way to champion American chefs abroad, promote American food

“We are delighted to announce that Matt Haley has been selected as our 2014 Humanitarian of the Year,” said Susan Ungaro, president of the James Beard Foundation. “Matt has an admirable passion for interweaving his culinary work with philanthropic initiatives,” Ungaro noted. “His efforts, both on a local and global scale, are helping to educate disadvantaged children and improve the agricultural conditions of countries around the world. His story and charity are an inspiration and we’re excited to see what Matt will continue to do for the culinary world in the future.”

“I am incredibly grateful to the James Beard Foundation for this award. It is an honor and a privilege,” said Matt Haley.” “On behalf of the state of Delaware, the Matt Haley Companies, and all of our community members both in and out of the food and beverage business, we say thank you.”

Haley’s story of entering into the hospitality industry, during a difficult time for him personally, not only shaped his career but his determination to pursue impactful charity work. Recovering in a rehabilitation facility in his early thirties from drug and alcohol abuse, Haley learned to cook as a vocational skill. When released, this newfound talent allowed him to work his way up through several restaurants and eventually land a management position at a friend’s beachfront spot in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Having developed a passion for the industry, he opened his own eatery, Bluecoast Seafood Grill, in 2001. Over the next decade, Haley opened six more restaurants in Delaware resort towns – Fish On, Lupo di Mare, Matt’s Fish Camp, Northeast Seafood Kitchen, Catch 54, and Papa Grande’s. In 2009, the restaurants’ umbrella company, SoDel Concepts, was named to the Inc. Magazine list of the fastest-growing food and beverage companies in the nation.

The James Beard Foundation Announces The 2014 James Beard Foundation Awards Restaurant and Chef Semifinalists

The announcement took place in Orlando, one of Florida’s burgeoning culinary hubs. The James Beard Foundation Awards Ceremony and Gala Reception will take place at Lincoln Center in New York City on  Monday, May 5, 2014. During the event, which is open to the public, awards for the Restaurant and Chef and Restaurant
Design categories will be handed out, along with special achievement awards including Humanitarian of the Year, Lifetime 
Achievement, Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America, and America’s Classics. A gala reception will immediately follow, featuring top chefs and beverage professionals from across the country.

James Beard Foundation Awards

The announcement for the final Restaurant and Chef Award nominations, as well as the nominations for our Book, Journalism, Broadcast, and Restaurant Design Awards, will be made at the Publican in Chicago on Wednesday, March 19.

The 2014 James Beard Foundation Awards Restaurant and Chef Semifinalists

Best New Restaurant
The 404 Kitchen, Nashville
Aragona, Seattle
Ardent, Milwaukee
Asta, Boston
Bar Sajor, Seattle
Betony, NYC
Brindille, Chicago
Carbone, NYC
Casa Rubia, Dallas
The Cavalier, San Francisco
Chi Spacca, Los Angeles
Connie and Ted’s, West Hollywood, CA
Coqueta, San Francisco
The Elm, Brooklyn, NY
Estela, NYC
Fish & Game, Hudson, NY
Izanami at Ten Thousand Waves, Santa Fe
Laurel, Philadelphia
MilkWood, Louisville, KY
MW, Honolulu
Nico Osteria, Chicago
Pêche, New Orleans
Pinewood Social, Nashville
Ribelle, Brookline, MA
Rose’s Luxury, Washington, D.C.
Serpico, Philadelphia
Tosca Cafe, San Francisco
Trois Mec, Los Angeles
Uncle Boons, NYC
Virtù, Scottsdale, AZ

Outstanding Bar Program
Anvil Bar & Refuge, Houston
Arnaud’s French 75 Bar, New Orleans
Bar Agricole, San Francisco
The Bar at the NoMad Hotel, NYC
The Broken Shaker, Miami Beach, FL
Butcher and the Rye, Pittsburgh
Canon, Seattle
Clyde Common, Portland, OR
Columbia Room inside the Passenger, Washington, D.C.
Cure, New Orleans
The Dead Rabbit, NYC
The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co., Philadelphia
Hard Water, San Francisco
The Hawthorne, Boston
Kimball House, Decatur, GA
Maison Premiere, Brooklyn, NY
Marvel Bar, Minneapolis
The Porter Beer Bar, Atlanta
Rivera, Los Angeles
Rogue 24, Washington, D.C.
Taste, St. Louis
Trick Dog, San Francisco
The Varnish, Los Angeles
The Violet Hour, Chicago
Williams & Graham, Denver

Crayola Reveals Innovative Activities that Spark Kids Creativity and Originality at 2014 American International Toy Show in New York City

Brand Debuts Unique Customization, Virtual and Mess-Free Activities

Crayola, a colorfully innovative brand for over 100 years, showcased its 2014 line-up of innovative holiday products and unique creative play activities at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, Feb. 16-19.

Encompassing a variety of exciting tools and mediums, the Crayola portfolio of products provides superior experience in color and creativity and inspires kids to let their imaginations run free. Kids can now mix and shake their own customized paint and create bright, bold and magical creations with a mess-free airbrush. A new drawing system enables kids to draw 2D and 3D images from smartphones, tablets or photographs. A new line-up of virtual products allows kids to bring their fashion and car designs to life on virtual runways and racetracks.

“At Crayola, we are all about kids and providing them with the highest quality products that inspire learning and creativity. We are dedicated to developing products that embrace kids’ originality and empower their creative spirit,” said Mike Perry, president and chief executive officer, Crayola LLC. “This year, we have developed an innovative portfolio that provides kids with new and exciting creative play experiences and activities.”

Highlights from the Crayola 2014 lineup of new creative activities include:

Crayola Brings America’s Favorite Color to Colored Bubbles Line Bright Bold Ka-Bluey Blue Comes to Life in Outdoor Bubble Line
America’s favorite Crayola – blue – is back in a brand new hue!
Introducing new Ka-Bluey™ Blue Colored Bubbles – the newest addition to the line of the only colored bubbles available. Crayola colored bubbles empower kids to go outside and fill the air with color. The colored bubble solution is specially designed to instantly rub off skin, spray away with water, and easily rinse out of clothes with only water. All color even just disappears with time, making colored bubbles worry free for parents. Ka-Bluey™ Blue joins the existing color family of Purple Pizzazz™, Unmellow Yellow™ and Fuchsia. More variety equals more fun with Crayola Colored Bubbles! For ages 4 and up. Suggested retail price $2.99 (per 4oz. Bottle)

Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk 48 Count

Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk 24 Count

Chalk Build Your Box

Ka-Bluey™ Blue Colored Bubbles

Color Wonder Air Brush

Color the Sidewalk with Bright, Crayola Colors: Crayola Introduces Customizable Colors and Grab and Go Games to Chalk Line
Crayola’s Washable Sidewalk Chalk is the first sidewalk chalk featuring 48 classic Crayola crayon colors. This year, kids can enjoy the bright and vibrant colors combined for different outdoor themes and draw to be active with grab and go game packs!

The New Crayola Chalk Build Your Box program uses Crayola color equity to build 18 different themes that inspire kids to color their outdoor world with amazing results. Use “Stars & Stripes” to color the perfect patriotic picture, “Martian Moon” for a cosmic creation, or use “Camouflage Barrage” to draw a concealed “base” for outdoor tag or hide-n-seek! Kids have the power to pick and choose the theme packs they like and want to build their own box of chalk.

“Ready, Set, Color!” The game is on with new Chalk Grab & Go Games, the latest way for kids to color and be active outside. Each game includes chalk, unique game play accessories and game rules and recommendations. Kids simply draw the play area as big or as small as they like, color it how they want, then stay outside playing and being physically active. The whole family can play along with great classics like Bean Bag Toss, Foot Hockey, Chip Shot Golf, and even an Obstacle Course. Grab & Go Games are perfect activities for summertime outdoor parties for both kids AND adults! For ages 4 and up; suggested retail price $4.99.

Beauty and Grooming: Oils for Soft Skin in Harsh Times

AVON INTRODUCES THE NEWLY REVAMPED AVON SKIN SO SOFT COLLECTION AND ENHANCE SKIN’S RADIANCE WITH NEW JERGENS® SHEA BEAUTY OIL

It doesn’t seem to be getting any warmer outside–in fact it’s turning out to be one of the worst winters we have had in as many years– and the dryness in the air continues to wreak havoc on our skin. Luckily for everyone, body oils have emerged as a trend and these multi-taskers are the perfect solution to get you through the rest of the upcoming winter months. Providing radiance, hydration and nourishment, body oils are the ultimate cure to dry, cracked winter skin.

Skin So Soft Original Oil

A deeply hydrating beauty oil for lustrous and visibly radiant skin and the latest addition to the Jergens® Shea Butter Collection, new Jergens® Shea Beauty Oil ($9.99, available at grocery, mass retailers and drugstores nationwide) delivers amplified radiance you can see plus indulgent moisture and coveted sheen. This unique body luminizer leaves your skin with six times more radiance, sheen, and hydration. Now, all the skin-loving benefits of intensely hydrating Shea Butter are paired with the exclusive sheen of body oil. This lightweight, fast absorbing beauty oil for the body harnesses the nourishing and sheen enhancing ingredient, Argan Oil, and the conditioning and illuminating ingredient, Shea Butter. Skin is left lush, illuminated and deeply conditioned with a beautiful sheen. Try Jergens® Shea Beauty Oil on its own to brighten your skin, or use it together with your favorite Jergens® Shea Butter Moisturizer for the optimum combination of radiance and hydration.

For decades, Avon‘s Skin So Soft has been a beloved and integral part of the Avon range. Generations of women have soothed and pampered their skin with the lush, nourishing formulas in the collection. Now reformulated with replenishing, softening oils, the newly enriched Skin So Soft line is more luxurious than ever. In the same original fragrances that customers love, the Skin So Soft collection has expanded to include indispensible new additions to every regimen, including Creamy Body Wash and two new scents of America’s #1 Bath Oil.

Avon’s Skin So Soft classic collection, this original range is now formulated with Jojoba Oil to soften and condition skin all day. The scent of crisp botanicals and fresh herbals energizes as the formula surrounds skin in nourishing softness. Includes:
Shower Gel ($6)
Gelled Body Oil ($7)
Body Lotion ($8)
Bath Oil Spray ($6)
Creamy Body Wash ($7)
Bath Oil 16.9 fl. oz. ($13)
Bath Oil 24 fl. Oz. ($16)

Skin So Soft Soft & Sensual: Blanket your skin in rich hydration with this Argan Oil-infused regimen, formulated to restore skin’s essential moisture. Scented with lush florals and jasmine, the collection turns your bath into a retreat.
Shower Gel ($6)
Creamy Body Wash ($7)
Ultra Moisturizing Body Lotion ($8)
Bath Oil ($13)

Skin So Soft Firm & Restore: Transform your skin to feel firmer and younger with this toning regimen. Now with Babassu Oil, the collection stimulates the cell renewal process while improving skin’s texture and elasticity. Notes of delicate blossoms and sheer florals scintillate and uplift.
Age-defying chest &neck cream SPF 15 ($12)
Body cleanser ($7)
Body lotion ($10)
Age-defying corrective hand treatment ($6)

Skin So Soft Signature Silk: Uncover your skin’s radiance with this gardenia and exotic woods-scented collection. Now formulated with Argan Oil, the regimen boosts radiance and illuminates skin.
Shower Gel ($6)
Gelled Body Oil ($7)
Ultra Moisturizing Body Lotion ($8)
Bath Oil 16.9 fl. oz. ($13)
Creamy Body Wash ($7)
Replenishing hand cream ($5)
Perfecting oil ($12)

Skin So Soft Hair Fresh & Smooth: Take care of hair from head to toe while smoothing and calming skin with Meadowfoam Oil. New Cherry Blossom fragrance makes hair removal an indulgent experience.
Facial Hair Removal Cream ($6)
Hair Removal Cream ($8)
Silky Stay Shave Gel ($5)
Hair Minimizing Body Lotion ($9)
Facial Wax Strip Kit ($12)

Skin So Soft Deodorants: Stay fresh, smooth and dry all day with these skin-pampering deodorants and includes:
All-Day Protection ($1.25)
Fresh & Smooth Moisturizing Hair-Minimizing Anti-Perspirant Deodorant (Cherry Blossom)  Antiperspirant Deodorants ($.99 Each)
Signature Silk (Jasmine & Sandalwood)
Original (Citrus & White Musk)
Soft & Sensual (Florals & Vanilla)

All Skin So Soft products are available exclusively through Avon Representatives. To locate an Avon Representative call 1-800-FOR-AVON or visit http://www.avon.com.

GRAMMY® Festival At Sea: Women Who Rock To Set Sail Nov. 4 – 8, 2014

The Recording Academy® Will Partner with Themed Cruise Company Sixthman to Produce Music Festival at Sea

Hot on the heels of the 56th Annual GRAMMY Awards®, The Recording Academy® (internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards) and marketing and travel company Sixthman are partnering to produce the first GRAMMY® Music Festival at Sea, which will set sail Nov. 4 – 8, 2014, in conjunction with Norwegian Cruise Line, the official cruise line of The Recording Academy. Departing out of Miami on Norwegian Pearl, the GRAMMY® Festival at Sea will offer guests the opportunity to celebrate GRAMMY-winning and/or -nominated women who rock, while sailing to Grand Bahama Island and Nassau. Joining guests at sea will be Shawn Colvin, Estelle, Skylar Grey, Emmylou Harris, Heart, and Indigo Girls, with more artists to be announced throughout 2014.

In addition to all of the activities and entertainment offered aboard the GRAMMY Festival at Sea, guests will take advantage of Norwegian Pearl’s 13 bars and lounges, 19 dining experiences, outdoor pool, hot tubs, expansive spa and fitness center, and so much more. In addition, guests can test their strength on the outdoor rock climbing wall, bowl a few frames in the ship’s bowling alley, or try their luck in the Pearl Club Casino. Norwegian Pearl features a wide range of stateroom categories to fit all lifestyles and budgets, from the perfectly appointed inside staterooms to luxurious penthouse suites in the Haven.

Pre-sale signups for the GRAMMY Festival at Sea: Women Who Rock opened today and guests wishing to sail onboard this exciting event can reserve their spot for as little as $200 per person for an Interior or Oceanview, and $300 per person for a balcony or suite. This highly anticipated music experience goes on sale to the general public on Feb. 28. For additional information, please visit www.grammyfestivalatsea.com.

Maserati Debuts the All-new Ghibli and 2014 Line-up in 50th Anniversary Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue

Maserati continues to celebrate the North American roll out of the all-new 2014 Ghibli, Quattroporte and GranTurismo lines with a 7-page pictorial feature titled “Beyond the Swimsuit” in the introduction part of America’s most anticipated magazine issue.

Maserati strikes again just two weeks after its successful Super Bowl spot with a special 7-page feature in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 50th Anniversary Issue. The story of Maserati’s introduction to the North American market with its new car line-up is one of beauty, hard work, dedication and an element of surprise. Maserati brings this story forward with Emmy Award Winning actress and Super Model Heidi Klum in a salute to all the women who achieved great things – “Beyond the Swimsuit.”

Maserati enters this new era backed by strong product and with ambitious sales goals driven by proven growth in the North American market, where the brand experienced triple digit gains in the past year. First unveiled to the U.S. in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the Ghibli is Maserati’s first-ever mid-size four-door luxury sports sedan vehicle. Available with all-wheel-drive and starting at $66,900, the Ghibli is powered by a Ferrari built twin-turbo V6 engine capable of over four hundred horsepower. Advanced suspension, Brembo brakes and extensive use of aluminum ensure comfort, with an ease of performance ready when called upon. Within its striking aerodynamic silhouette, the cabin offers rich Italian leathers, woods and other high quality materials at the heart of the Maserati brand. The Ghibli upholds the tradition, luxury and performance that have marked the brand for a century at a more accessible price point, which is expected to open the brand up to new buyers.

Ghibli, Maserati’s first-ever mid-size four-door luxury sports sedan, available in all-wheel-drive, starts at $66,900 and is powered by a Ferrari-built twin-turbo V6, capable of more than 400hp.

“We started our next 100 years of craftsmanship by kicking off 2014 with the launch of one of the best received Super Bowl commercials, “Strike,” featuring all new Maserati Ghibli, and extending the brand to another massive cultural icon, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 50th Anniversary issue,” said Harald Wester, CEO of Maserati SPA.

Los Angeles Film Festival Celebrates 20th Anniversary With Commemorative Poster By World Renowned Artist Ed Ruscha

The Los Angeles Film Festival, presented by Film Independent, in conjunction with Presenting Media Sponsor the Los Angeles Times and Host Partner L.A. LIVE, today unveiled the Festival’s 20th Anniversary commemorative poster, designed by iconic American artist Ed Ruscha, based on his 1962 painting “Large Trademark With Eight Spotlights.”

Los Angeles Film Festival 20th Anniversary Poster by Ed Ruscha. (PRNewsFoto/Film Independent)

“I’m pleased to have designed the poster in support of the 20th LA Film Festival and Film Independent, and I hope the image reaches as many people as possible,” said Ruscha. Ruscha’s work is collected by museums worldwide, including the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Musee National Jeu de Paume, The Getty Center, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney.

“We’re honored that Ed Ruscha created the artwork for the 20th anniversary poster,” said Josh Welsh, President of Film Independent. “Ruscha’s body of work represents the creative spirit of Los Angeles that is embodied in the Festival.”

The Festival opens Wednesday, June 11, and runs through Thursday, June 19. It will include world premieres of American and international features, documentaries and short subject films as well as conversations, master classes, Music in Film Nights at the GRAMMY Museum, Hollywood studio premieres, and other signature events.

In celebration of the Los Angeles Film Festival‘s 20th Anniversary, Festival Director Stephanie Allain and Film Independent at LACMA curator Elvis Mitchell along with artist/scholar Roya Rastegar will program a special section of films and events that celebrates the cultural wealth of Los Angeles.

“Our mission is to foster a community of artists who embody diversity, innovation and uniqueness of vision and to celebrate the cultural splendor of Los Angeles,” said Festival Director, Stephanie Allain. “In addition to our stellar film programming, the festival produces unique, one of a kind evenings, that illuminate the artistic process and shine light on the creators and collaborators behind today’s most exciting visual storytelling.”

The Los Angeles Film Festival programming team is comprised of Festival Director Stephanie Allain, Artistic Director David Ansen, Associate Director of Programming Doug Jones, Senior Programmer Maggie Mackay, Programmers Jenn Wilson, Drea Clark, Hebe Tabachnik and Jennifer Murphy, as well as Guest Curators Elvis Mitchell and Roya Rastegar.

Festival passes go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, April 22. The full line-up will be announced onTuesday, May 6. Posters will be sold to the public at a later date.

NESPRESSO SET TO REVOLUTIONIZE THE NORTH AMERICAN COFFEE MARKET WITH THE LAUNCH OF VERTUOLINE™

VERTUOLINE™ WILL CREATE PREMIUM LARGE-CUP COFFEE SEGMENT IN U.S.

Nespresso, the worldwide pioneer and reference in premium portioned coffee, today introduced its new VertuoLineTM system in the United States and Canada, the first Nespresso machine that brews both American style large-cup coffee and authentic espresso. Nespresso pioneered the premium portioned coffee market in Europe more than 25 years ago. Today, the brand is set to accelerate its growth in North America and become a major player in the $4.9 billion U.S. portioned coffee market with the launch of VertuoLineTM.

New Nespresso VertuoLine™ revolutionizes the way that coffee is brewed and enjoyed. A game changer in the single-serve market, this new system brews American-style, high-quality large-cup coffee and espresso.

New Nespresso VertuoLine™ revolutionizes the way that coffee is brewed and enjoyed. A game changer in the single-serve market, this new system brews American-style, high-quality large-cup coffee and espresso.

“VertuoLineTM will be a game changer and will revolutionize the most rapidly growing segment of the coffee market in North America,” said Jean-Marc Duvoisin, CEO of Nestlé Nespresso SA. “After pioneering the portioned coffee market in Europe and seeing tremendous growth potential in the North American market, we are confident we can become a major player in the market.”

A Coffee System for the Digital Era
The new Nespresso VertuoLineTM revolutionizes the way that coffee is brewed by introducing CentrifusionTM technology. A world class team of Nespresso engineers and designers have created the most intelligent, elegant and ergonomic system on the market today. The intelligent extraction system provides an extremely high level of precision as the machine recognizes, through barcode technology, each expertly designed Grand Cru and adjusts the extraction parameters to brew each blend in the most optimal way. The result is a new richly aromatic, deeply flavored, crema-topped large-cup coffee (8 ounces) or espresso.

Nespresso’s new VertuoLine™ system with Centrifusion™ technology provides an extremely high level of precision as the machine recognizes, through barcode technology, each expertly designed Grand Cru coffee and adjusts to brew each blend.

he Nespresso VertuoLine™ system custom brews the finest Grand Cru coffees sourced from the top 1-2% of the world’s coffee beans. This is the first and only digitized system that brews a smooth large-cup coffee topped with a silky and generous crema.

For the first time ever, coffee lovers can experience large-cup coffee with crema. The silky, generous crema is the sign of a world-class coffee and represents unprecedented quality.

Beginning this March, Nespresso will take VertuoLineTM on the road for a 108-day tour, inviting Americans nationwide to participate in a revolutionary coffee experience that, along with our retail partners and Boutiques, aims to reach up to 1 million people. Five simultaneous teams will travel the country to 17 different cities where coffee lovers will have a chance to visit a unique installation called the Nespresso VertuoLineTM Pop-Up and experience the revolution of coffee. Tasting venues will include malls across the country as well as major transportation hubs, Union Station in Washington, D.C., and Grand Central Terminal in New York, NY.

VertuoLineTM is available in three colors (red, black and chrome) for $299, or theVertuoLineTM bundle with the Aeroccino Plus milk frother can be purchased for $349.VertuoLineTM will be available for purchase at www.nespresso.com, through theNespresso Club (1.877.964.6299) and at Sur La Table, Williams-Sonoma, Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s starting February 20th, and select fine retailers starting April 1st. VertuoLineTMwill be available at all Nespresso Flagship Boutiques (New York, Miami, Boston, Dallas, San Francisco and Beverly Hills) beginning March 1st.

Neiman Marcus Launches Exclusive Lela Rose Tabletop Capsule Collection

Neiman Marcus has announced the launch of a Lela Rose tabletop collection available exclusively at http://www.NeimanMarcus.com, marking the fashion designer’s first collaboration in the home category.

In partnership with Neiman Marcus, Rose has created a special tabletop collection that includes a white lace and linen napkin and placemat set ($100) as well as a set of four assorted dessert plates ($135). Each dessert plate in the set features a unique design inspired by master chef Ferran Adrià’s complex approach to food.

“We are proud to be partnering with Lela Rose on this collection,” said Gerald Barnes, Chief Merchant, Neiman Marcus Direct. “Neiman Marcus has always felt that art enhances the quality of people’s lives and so it seemed natural that we would collaborate with Lela on this collection.”

“Entertaining is woven into my lifestyle, so creating a tabletop collection is a natural extension,” said Lela Rose, designer. “I am inspired by Adrià’s artistic approach to food; each piece I designed reflects the energy and creativity in his masterpieces. This collaboration allowed me to apply my design philosophy of mixing color and texture to tabletop for the first time.”

QVC Delivers Designs On Demand Live From The Red Carpet on 2014 Oscar Weekend

QVC’s Red Carpet Broadcast to Feature Elegant Fashion and Glamorous Beauty Live Broadcast from L.A. to Spotlight Star-Studded Soiree

Celebrating red carpet style for the fifth consecutive year, global multimedia retailer QVC will once again set up shop in Los Angeles to capture the magic of awards season with an exciting three-hour live broadcast. The fifth annual “Red Carpet Style – Live from L.A.” will serve as a unique shopping experience within an exclusive soiree from the Wetherly Gardens at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills. Viewers will be offered specially designed and curated products that are reminiscent of a true red carpet event.

On Friday, February 28 from 9 PM to midnight (ET), red carpet laureate and host of E! Network’s “Fashion Police” Joan Rivers will join fashion designers Lori Goldstein, Dennis Basso, Mark Zunino, Bob Mackie and Isaac Mizrahi, who are all scheduled to present elegant, sophisticated pieces to wow the audience. Nicole Richie and Lisa Rinna along with celebrity stylist Jen Rade will introduce new items as well. Floor-length gowns, hand-beaded and embellished separates, luxurious fabrics and statement details will be prevalent in the impressive designs. Additionally, as part of an ongoing collaboration with Lifetime®’s Project Runway All Stars, season three winner Seth Aaron Henderson will join the lineup. Henderson will present two new styles from his QVC collection, which made an impressive debut in January resulting in three sellouts.

Especially exciting is the debut of Styled by Joe Zee, the brand new collection from the highly regarded fashion industry expert and Creative Director at ELLE magazine, Joe Zee. During “Red Carpet Style,” Zee will present two coordinating pieces that embody his idea of wearable glamour. In addition, the legendary Miss Piggy—fresh off the set of her new movie – “Muppets Most Wanted“—will be in attendance, showcasing Miss Piggy’s Haute Tote, the VIP gift bag she created for the event. A consumer version of the bag will also be available for purchase on http://www.QVC.com.

Viewers of the show can expect to see the best in beauty, jewelry and accessories to accompany the elevated fashion offerings of the night. All new croco-textured styles from JAI John Hardy, diamond pieces from Michael Beaudry and stunning Bronzo Italia® designs will be among the arm candy presented. Plus, tune in for beauty tips, tricks and collections from leading industry brands including Edward Bess, bareMinerals®, Kate Somervilleand Sarah Potempa, whose stylists will collaborate with artists from tarte cosmetics to create the hair and makeup looks for the broadcast.

“We have really enjoyed seeing the evolution of this annual event and are very excited to invite our viewers to experience this year’s broadcast,” said Claire Watts, CEO, QVC U.S. “We’re proud to collaborate with such talented designers and noteworthy brands to offer exciting products that were created especially for this red carpet event.”

The “QVC Red Carpet Style” event has become an anticipated industry favorite. This year, QVC has tapped brand leaders and tastemakers to contribute to the big night. George Kotsiopoulos, co-host of “Fashion Police” will serve as the QVC red carpet correspondent, interviewing celebrities as they arrive and encouraging guests to share pictures using #QVCRedCarpet. Highlights of those images will be displayed throughout the gardens via the DELL InstaGallery, which consists of multiple gallery-style walls featuring digital screens for a unique social sharing experience. Finally, the InstaGlam Suite powered by HALO, a leader in portable power, will be a hub for social networking within the event and will be hosted by fashion personality and television host Jeannie Mai.

For additional information on “Red Carpet Style – Live from L.A.,” visit http://www.qvc.com/redcarpetstyle. Products featured during the broadcast will be available, while supplies last, through QVC at 800.345.1515, the QVC apps and QVC.com.

Neiman Marcus Announces “Be You Be Beautiful”: A SEARCH FOR OUR FALL FACES OF BEAUTY

Neiman Marcus is looking for 6 women to appear in their Fall 2014 beauty campaign. The winners will be flown to Dallas to enjoy a private fitting at the flagship store downtown and a host of other chic treats. Plus, be chauffeured to and from their shoot with a New York fashion photographer and get to keep the wardrobe. Nominate yourself, or someone you believe is beautiful inside and out. We want to hear how the nominee dedicates her time, her charitable efforts, how she is striving to make the world a better place, and other qualities that makes her beautiful in your eyes. Submissions are limited to a paragraph and include a photo.

The entire prize package includes: a day-long photo shoot in Dallas for the Fall 2014 campaign for the Beauty Event. Round trip airfare, lodging, dinner at the Zodiac restaurant, a private fitting at the flagship store and $1,500 in cosmetics and fragrances plus the wardrobe from the shoot. To enter, visit the Neiman Marcus Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/neimanmarcus to submit your nomination, then share with friends.

Yanqi Lake Kempinski Hotel Beijing to be Unveiled in May 2014

European luxury hotel company Kempinski Hotels‘ largest property in China will be unveiled in May 2014. Created in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group and its rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Kempinski now comprises a portfolio of 73 five-star hotels in 30 countries and continues to add new properties in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Each one reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts, and prestigious residences. Each one imbues the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location.

Yanqi Lake Kempinski Hotel Beijing

Yanqi Lake is a beautiful scenic site located at the foot of Yanshan Mountains, eight kilometres north of Huairou County. Spanning 65.78 hectares, Yanqi Lake is surrounded by a variety of trees including pine, poplar and willow. The island is also a natural habitat for various species, including rare migrant birds and geese, especially during spring and autumn. The name, Yanqi Lake literally translates as ‘Swans Dwell on Lake‘. Yanqi Lake draws multitudes of tourists every year. Mutianyu Great Wall, a favourite historical and cultural attraction, welcomed 2.79 million visitors in 2013.

The development, set on 14-square-kilometre grounds in the heart of scenic Yanqi Lake, Beijing, includes a total of 595 guestrooms and suites with 306 rooms at Yanqi Lake Kempinski Hotel Beijing, located on the main land, as well as 111 rooms at the State Guest House and 178 rooms spread across 12 Boutique Hotels, on a private island. The Yanqi Lake Kempinski Hotel Beijing has 14,069 square metres of meeting space, including a 8,277-square-meter Conference Center, and ample out-door event space amidst beautifully landscaped natural gardens, offering meeting planners a brand-new exciting option of a fully-integrated MICE destination in Beijing. The development is located approximately 45 kilometres north of Beijing Capital International airport, 60 kilometers north of Beijing’s city center and 25 kilometres from Mutianyu Great Wall.

The resort’s culinary team is on a mission to provide Yanqi Lake’s local community and travelers a combination of luxurious European hospitality and Chinese tradition. At the venue’s culinary hub of 14 food and beverage establishments including German restaurant and bar, Paulaner Brauhaus, guests will be spoilt for choice by the many cuisines on offer, ranging from various types of Chinese to authentic European recipes, imported cheeses, cold cuts, sausages, traditional and freshly-baked breads, wine and cigars.

Leisure facilities include a marina, 18-hole golf course, Kempinski The Spa, recreational and fitness facilities, and a Kid’s Club. Guests seeking outdoor activities will not be disappointed with various options available. Wedding couples will value the resort’s beauty with its surroundings embraced by views of the Mutianyu Great Wall, Yanshan Mountain, natural gardens and tranquil waters, offering a romantic and nostalgic setting for a majestic wedding.

Be it dining with loved ones, entertaining business associates, hosting a meeting or staging a global summit, celebrating a large or intimate wedding, or a weekend city escape with the family, the facilities at Yanqi Lake Kempinski offer guests a surprising change from their traditional experience at a resort hotel.

‘Witness the marriage of beauty and nature by our world renowned designers – DiLeonardo, Wilson Associates, Rockwellgroup and Hirsch Bedner Associates, where sustainability and ecological values remain their core consideration when choosing materials and construction techniques,‘ says general manager Brice Pean. ‘Electricity is supplied from green hydroelectric power, lighting consists of LED systems and eco-friendly products are used throughout our resort.’

Far from monotonous, no two buildings are alike. Yanqi Lake Kempinski Hotel Beijing embodies the shape of the rising sun and symbolizes harmony, unity and infinity whilst the State Guest House is designed with a combination of natural elements and exudes the richness of diverse world culture gathering in one harmonious place. The 12 Boutique Hotels blend contemporary and traditional design with thematic decor, such as Chinese Imperial Gardens of Beijing and ‘Siheyuan’ – a traditional courtyard combined with modern elements.

‘In February 2014, we will begin our mass recruitment where our project will offer employment opportunities to over 1,000 employees in Beijing,’ added Pean. ‘Our commitment to our staff is to train and equip them with the skills they need to reflect Kempinski’s Remarkable European Flair. Our distinction is that Kempinski is the oldest luxury hotel company in Europe. Clearly the history and the heritage of Kempinski is what we deliver to our guests.’

Local authorities will implement air pollution control campaign in the Yanqi Lake area in early 2014. Significant measures range from population control and emission control, to the elimination of ‘yellow label vehicles’ and closing down of high energy-consumption enterprises.

Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotels.

Pharrell Williams To Release New Album “G I R L” Monday, March 3

Global superstar Pharrell Williams has just announced the release of his Columbia Records debut album, G  I  R  L.  Highlighted by his Oscar-nominated hit single “Happy,” G  I  R  L will be released worldwide Monday, March 3. Pre-order the album here: http://smarturl.it/GIRLalbum.

Pharrell Williams To Release New Album “G I R L” Monday, March 3. (PRNewsFoto/Columbia Records)

Redefining cool for a new generation, Williams is a creative force, using music, fashion, and design to express his distinctive style. From his beginnings as a teenage prodigy and multi-instrumentalist in Virginia Beach back in the early ’90s, through enough hits to earn him Billboard’s Producer of the Decade in 2010, to his current status as multi-media superstar, Williams has never stopped creating. Starting his producing career as one half of The Neptunes with Chad Hugo, Williams has helped create such classics as Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky,”Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines,” Nelly’s “Hot in Herre,” Jay-Z’s “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me),” Britney Spears’ “I’m A Slave 4 U,” and Justin Timberlake’s “Like I Love You.”

“When Columbia Records presented me with the opportunity to make an album, three things came to mind,” says Pharrell. “One was the sense of overwhelming honor that I felt when I realized that they were interested in partnering with me on the album that I had always dreamt of making.  Two, it would have to feel festive and urgent.  And three, I instantly knew it would be called G  I  R  L. I hope you like it.”

Pharrell is currently in London, where he will perform “Happy” at the BRIT Awards this evening, and on Sunday, March 2, Pharrell is slated to perform the song on the 86th Annual Academy Awards. Pharrell will also perform on Germany’s Wetten Das and France’s Le Grand Journal later this month. This past Sunday, Pharrell kicked off the NBA All-Star Game with an incredible–and well-received–retrospective performance of some of his greatest hits.

“Happy,” which was first featured on Despicable Me 2 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), has become an international phenomenon and radio smash. Currently #1 on the iTunes’ Songs chart in the U.S., the song has topped the chart in more than 175 countries, selling more than 2.3 million downloads worldwide. In addition to jumping to #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 this week, “Happy” has also become the highest-charting Oscar-nominated song in more than a decade. With more than 120 million in audience, the song is currently charting at seven U.S. radio formats—Top 40, Rhythm, AC, Hot AC, Urban, Urban AC, and AAA. Around the world, “Happy” tops radio charts in 14 countries including Australia, France, Germany, U.K., Belgium, Denmark, Hungary,Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Switzerland, and Poland.

Just last month, Pharrell took home four GRAMMY® awards, including Producer of the Year, Album of the Year for Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories, and Record of the Year as well as Best Pop Duo/Performance for Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky.” Pharrell has won a career-spanning total of seven GRAMMYs

With over 100 million copies of his productions sold, his music sounds like something no one else has thought of just yet. He’s also created a new way of looking at established stars like Snoop Dogg, Madonna, and even the Rolling Stones. Over four albums, Williams and Hugo along with Shae Haley created an unpredictable hybrid as part of the alt-rock/hip-hop group N.E.R.D. His prolific body of work also ranges from designing a sculpture withTokyo-born artist Takashi Murakami to accessories and jewelry for luxury goods brands Louis Vuitton and Moncler. Now, with his latest venture i am OTHER — a multi-media creative collective that serves as an umbrella for all his endeavors, including Billionaire Boys Club & ICECREAM apparel, textile company Bionic Yarn and dedicated YouTube channel — Williams’ vision continues to push pop culture forward.

TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL® INTRODUCES “TRIBECA INNOVATION WEEK” AT THE 13TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL

New Pass Opens the Door to Innovators, Creative Leaders, and Events Celebrating Innovation and Storytelling in the Digital Age

Fifth Anniversary of the Tribeca Disruptive Innovation Awards, in Collaboration with Harvard’s Clay Christensen and the Disruptor Foundation, Will Honor Sputnik Satellite, TEDMED’s Jay Walker, 1968 Olympian Dick Fosbury, and Warby Parker/VisionSpring among others

Aaron Sorkin to Kickoff Future of Film

The 2014 Tribeca Film Festival (TFF), presented by AT&T, announced today the creation of its first-ever “Tribeca Innovation Week” where the worlds of culture, technology, and storytelling will collide. Taking place April 21-26, Tribeca Innovation Week will be a place for coders, screenwriters, hackers, futurists, gamers, directors, engineers, venture capitalists, film financiers, techno radicals, the generally curious, and anyone who has a story to tell. The week will expand on Tribeca’s tradition of connecting the creative and tech communities.  A new innovation pass will offer access to some of the Festival’s newest and most popular programs, some of which were previously closed to the public. The 13th Annual Tribeca Film Festival will take place April 16-27. #TribecaInnovation

“Tribeca Innovation Week will bring together the ever merging communities – creators and innovators – to explore this unique time of convergence in media, movies, art and technology. As the digital and analog worlds continue to blur there has never been more of an opportunity to create and tell stories.” said Jane Rosenthal, TFF Co-Founder and CEO.

The Tribeca Film Festival helps filmmakers reach the broadest possible audience, enabling the international film community and general public to experience the power of cinema and promote New York City as a major filmmaking center. It is well known for being a diverse international film festival that supports emerging and established directors. Founded by Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff in 2001 following the attacks on the World Trade Center, to spur the economic and cultural revitalization of the lower Manhattan district through an annual celebration of film, music and culture, the Festival brings the industry and community together around storytelling.

Image courtesy of the Tribeca Film Festival

Tribeca Innovation Week is anchored by the Fifth Annual Tribeca Disruptive Innovation Awards (TDIA) and five other major events. Full events for the week include TDIA, co-sponsored by Accenture and AT&T, which will honor  innovators, pioneers and game-changers across various disciplines and previously was open only by invitation; the Future of Film Live panel series, which will kick off with a conversation with Oscar® and Emmy®-award winning American screenwriter, producer, and playwright Aaron Sorkin; Storyscapes in collaboration with BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® Gin, a showcase of transmedia projects; Tribeca Hacks <Mobile>, the culmination of a two-day hackathon sponsored by AT&T that unites technologists and content creators; the daylong TFI Interactive summit, an initiative of the nonprofit Tribeca Film Institute with leadership support from the Ford Foundation; and the Games for Change Festival, in its first installment as part of the Tribeca Film Festival.