Sea Bags Launches 9th Annual ‘Cure Campaign’

Breast Cancer Awareness Collection Now Available at Seabags.com

Sea Bags, designers and manufacturers of handmade items from recycled sails, will once again sell its popular Breast Cancer Awareness or ‘Cure’ accessories to raise money for breast cancer research. This year represents the company’s ninth year running a ‘Cure Campaign’ and raising thousands of dollars for cancer research in the process. Founded in 1999, Sea Bags started by making fun, functional and stylish totes from reclaimed sailcloth in the historic Old Port district of Portland, Maine. Today, the company makes a diverse line of totes, bags, and home goods, all featuring material from sails that were once actively used.

Pink Lobster Cure Envelope Clutch

Pink Lobster Cure Tote

Pink Lobster Cure Wristlet

Available online at www.seabags.com, the ‘Cure’ collection this year comprises a Pink Lobster Cure Tote ($150-$190), a Pink Lobster Cure Wristlet ($30) and a coordinating Pink Lobster Cure Clutch ($45). From October 1- December 31, Sea Bags will contribute 20% of proceeds of the sales of all Sea Bags ‘Cure’ items to the American Cancer Society. *

Beth Shissler, President at Sea Bags, said: “We all know someone who has been touched by cancer. The pink lobster design represents the best of Sea Bags and our Maine roots. By offering a limited collection with a generous gift to the American Cancer Society designated for research, we know we can make both an emotional and financial impact.”

“We are so grateful to the folks at Sea Bags for their support,” said Peg Camp, Executive Vice President and Operating Officer of the American Cancer Society’s New England Division. “We are proud that a New England-based company with a national mission recognizes the impact of our cancer research and the ongoing needs of patients and families around the country.”

The extensive use of reclaimed sailcloth is unique to Sea Bags. Signs of hard sailing can be seen in every Sea Bags creation, making them as individual and unique as their owner. Sea Bags products are available online at www.seabags.com or at one of its five retail locations in Portland, ME, Freeport, ME, Cape May, NJ, Rockport, MA and Chatham, MA.

Drag Queens Celebrated with Exhibit at Key West Art & Historical Society’s Custom House Museum

Key West’s glitzy and glamorous drag queens have gained applause above and beyond the cabaret stage with “What a Drag!”, an exhibit at Key West Art & Historical Society’ s Custom House Museum in Key West, Florida. More than 300 people gathered for the opening Gala reception on September 18 for a “backstage” look at the talented entertainers and their inspirations, finery, lives, and role in the island’s culture at the exhibit which continues until December 2.

The colorful, zoomed-in view of Key West’s famed queens and the men who embody them features costumes, wigs, shoes, and other finery on loan from the local men who create and portray the flamboyant female characters, carefully curated by Exhibitions Curator Cori Convertito, PhD.

Key West prides itself on being one of America’s most artistic and bohemian cultural centers. Numerous writers, artists, actors and performers have found the island to be a hub of creativity. While many people focus on the well-known works of Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Mario Sanchez, Judy Blume, and the like, many have overlooked the artistic contributions of some of the most recognized performers – Key West’s famed drag queens.

On any given night in Key West, several establishments offer performances known as ‘Drag Shows’. A troupe of men, dressed in ornate women’s attire, perform dance routines in a cabaret setting, sometimes emulating famous vocalists such as Cher, Bette Midler, Madonna and Barbra Streisand. Performers spend hours preparing their makeup, hair, costumes and routines which reveals their artistic qualities.

What a Drag! will explore the place of drag queens in Key West’s community, where they are seen as both celebrities and curiosities. It will also highlight the role they play in community events, with emphasis placed on their frequent participation in local philanthropic and charity events where they donate their time and talents to raise funds for those in need. Exhibition topics will include the queens’ preparations for their daily performances, the cabaret theaters, the famous people that appear in their routines and how the audience perceives the role of drag queens in Key West

Topics include a peek into drag artists’ daily glamour rituals, the cabaret theaters where they perform, and how the audience perceives the role of drag queens in Key West. Also featured are distinctive photographs and the iconic, glittering red shoe from which world-famous drag queen Sushi rings in each New Year by dropping two stories at the stroke of midnight to the delight of throngs on Duval Street and millions of viewers via annual CNN coverage.

“The drag queens are central to the life of the LGTB community in Key West but also to local philanthropy,” says Convertito. “There are several charitable events that take place throughout the year, and the queens are always present. Their fundraising efforts-historically and present-day-benefit local non-profits including AIDS Help, the Hospice and Visiting Nurse Association, Helpline, Metropolitan Community Church, the Leukemia Society, Wildlife Rescue of the Florida Keys, and the local SPCA.”

Chopard Celebrates The Opening Of Its First Texas Boutique At River Oaks District In Houston

Venerable Jewelry And Timepiece House To The Stars Releases The Chopard ‘Happy Texas’ Limited Edition Timepiece

Chopard, the independent Geneva-based brand synonymous with red carpet glamour and famous for its longstanding ties with the world of classic automobiles, is proud to announce the opening of its first-ever boutique in the State of Texas, at River Oaks District in Houston.

Chopard (PRNewsFoto/Chopard)

“Over the past years, Houston has developed into a primary luxury market, which is only confirmed by the opening of the brand new River Oaks District,” says Ralph Simons, CEO Chopard North America. “As part of our brand’s expansion strategy, and in response to the increase in demand for our products, we are delighted to launch the first-ever Chopard Boutique in the State of Texas. We look forward to welcoming our clients – known and new – and to guide their discovery of the extraordinary World of Chopard, at our new home in the River Oaks District.“

The 1,230 square foot retail location (4444 Westheimer Road, Suite E140, Houston, TX 77027, 713.396.7200 us.chopard.com) features wooden floors, plush carpets, wood paneling and various seating areas, all designed to create a luscious, warm and welcoming environment to instantly make customers feel at home. There, the creations of this 155 year old Swiss jeweler and watchmaker are ready to be discovered, including pieces from the High Jewelry, Happy Diamonds, Happy Sport and Imperiale collections for ladies, as well as technical, sophisticated and sports timepieces for men from the L.U.C, Mille Miglia and Superfast collections.

Reflected in all of Chopard’s products is the company’s deeply-rooted passion for the creation of luxurious, unique and contemporary designs, which are produced in-house with traditional craftsmanship and innovative technologies, and with a strong commitment to sustainability.

CHOPARD ‘HAPPY TEXAS’ LIMITED EDITION
The Happy Sport watch, one of the brand’s most iconic designs, was created by Caroline Scheufele, Co-President of Chopard, in 1993. Ever since, Happy Sport has grown into the brand’s most successful collection. Resolutely original, consistently elegant, purposely playful and very Chopard, various creative interpretations have been launched over the years, including Happy Beach, Happy Spirit, Happy Stars… and now: Happy Texas. In celebration of the opening of the River Oaks District boutique, Chopard has redesigned the famous Happy Sport watch with floating diamonds – one of the most fascinating jewelry and timepiece innovations in recent decades – to create a unique, limited edition timepiece that pays homage to the Lone Star State.

“Happy Texas” Timepiece (PRNewsFoto/Chopard)

The new ‘Happy Texas’ Limited Edition features seven floating gems – three bright red rubies, three blue sapphires and one white star-shaped diamond – which whirl and twirl freely just above the exquisite watch dial. Emphasizing its exclusivity, only twenty-five numbered pieces of the Chopard ‘Happy Texas’ Limited Edition will be produced.

“Happy Texas” Timepiece and Gift Box (PRNewsFoto/Chopard)

On the reverse side of the watch, the sapphire crystal is etched with a Texas star and provides a chance to admire the timepiece’s mechanical self-winding movement, adorned with a straight Côtes de Genève motif. The 36mm diameter steel case is water-resistant to 30 meters, and is engraved with the unique limited edition number. In line with the Red-White-Blue theme, the ‘Happy Texas’ Limited Edition comes with a selection of three different straps in three different materials: bright red alligator, crisp white rubber, and night blue satin. Finally, the watch and wristbands are presented in a luxurious wooden Chopard gift box, with a hand-engraved, commemorative plaque.

The Peninsula Hong Kong Is Pretty In Pink As It Hosts The Glittering Inaugural Pink Tie Fundraising Gala

Funds Raised Will Support the Work of The Hong Kong Hereditary Breast Cancer Family Registry

THE PENINSULA HONG KONG Entrance

Guests at THE PENINSULA HONG KONG were tickled pink on Tuesday, 29 September 2015 as the hotel hosted the inaugural PINK TIE FUNDRAISING GALA in support of the HONG KONG HEREDITARY BREAST CANCER FAMILY REGISTRY. An evening of high glamour and big-hearted generosity, the lavish affair saw many of Hong Kong’s influential society figures and best-known personalities stepping out to raise awareness and funds for this worthy cause.

Christie’s Asia Pacific Chairman, Francois Curiel

Part of PENINSULA IN PINK, a charitable initiative in support of breast cancer charities that is now in its sixth year, the event was themed “The Art of Pink” and included an exclusive auction hosted by Christie’s Asia Pacific Chairman, François Curiel. This featured works of art, specially arranged VIP experiences and other enticing lots donated by generous sponsors, raising a total of HK$ 735,000 for the Hong Kong Hereditary Breast Cancer Family Registry.

Established in 2007, THE HONG KONG HEREDITARY BREAST CANCER FAMILY REGISTRY (hereinafter called “The Registry”) is a non-government charity organization dedicated to support the high risk breast cancer programme (HRBCP) in providing free access of genetic screening and consultation for the underprivileged, high-risk breast , ovarian and Prostate cancer patients and their families. The aim of The Registry is to advance and standardize clinical care for this high risk cancer group, in particular of the younger pre-menopausal age group, by formulating preventative measures through data collection, research, public education, counseling and supportive care services in Hong Kong.

Dr Ava Kwong, Chairman of the Hong Kong Hereditary Breast Cancer Family Registry

Genetic counseling is an important aspect of genetic test. The Registry is dedicated to support health care professionals to be trained in genetic counseling so that guidance and coping skills could be shared with high risk individuals and families. Genetic test results will provide useful information about an individual’s cancer risk. The Registry is keen to support the underprivileged and their families in the HRBCP to undergo genetic testing for BRCA mutations with subsequent aim for intensive screening and to provide advice on preventive measures.

Olivier Thibault

There is increasing data suggesting that certain clinicopathlogical and genetic features of breast cancer is ethnic specific. Research specific to Chinese/Asia population is designed to help improve the management of breast cancer in Asia by tailor-making it specifically to their needs. Collaborative research with international genetic registries will increase understanding of the ethnic differences in hereditary cancers. Through the public educational programs, The Registry promotes and strengthens the understanding of BRCA gene mutation in the local community. Vital information leaflets are produced and distributed to the public and health care professionals on hereditary breast cancer.

Michael Wong

Over 80 guests attended the event, joining Dr Ava Kwong, Chairman of the Hong Kong Hereditary Breast Cancer Family Registry, and Ms Rainy Chan, Regional Vice President of The Peninsula Hotels and General Manager of The Peninsula Hong Kong. Among those lending their support was special guest of the evening, the dashing actor Mr Michael Wong, who set the tone for the evening with a Sinatra-worthy performance of songs.

During the evening’s live auction, guests bid on the following eight exclusive, curated lots, which were generously sponsored by a select band of highly charitable donors.

LOT #1: PERRIER-JOUËT BELLE EPOQUE 1996 JEROBOAM

Renowned Champagne house Perrier-Jouët has been crafting wines of exceptional quality for more than two centuries. The Belle Epoque 1996 combines maturity and freshness in a surprising and exceptional illustration of the Perrier-Jouët style, while the jeroboam bottle is decorated with enameled anemones designed by Emile Gallé, one of the pioneers of the Art Nouveau movement of the 1900s.

LOT #2: A private, archeologist-led tour of the Tod’s Group-sponsored Colosseum restoration in Rome, and a pair of made-to-order Gommino Club custom men’s driving shoes. As part of its commitment to preserving Italian culture, Tod’s Group has pledged 25 million euros to finance the complete restoration of Rome’s historic Colosseum, and the brand donated this exclusive private tour of the architectural wonder, led by an experienced archeologist. As well as gaining a unique insight into one of the world’s oldest and most famous buildings, Tod’s also sponsored a made-to-order pair of their Gommino Club signature moccasin driving shoes.

LOT #3: SOVEREIGN ART FOUNDATION: LOVE ME TENDER BY DONGI LEE (2014)

Peninsula – Pink Tie Gala 2015 SAF Dongi Li, Love Me Tender, 2014, Acrylic on canvas, 70x70cm

Donated by the Sovereign Art Foundation, a Hong Kong-based charity dedicated to helping disadvantaged children though art, this abstract painting by Korean pop artist Dongi Lee was inspired by the Elvis Presley song, Love Me Tender.

LOT #4: Supremely luxurious accommodation for two in the Marco Polo Suite at The Peninsula Hong Kong, including Rolls-Royce transfer, helicopter tour, pink Champagne breakfast and “Pretty in Pink” spa treatment

The city’s Grande Dame, The Peninsula Hong Kong has been setting the bar for luxurious hospitality since 1928, and this remarkable package gives two lucky guests the chance to experience the hotel at its very best. With highlights including accommodation for two in the plush Marco Polo Suite, transfers in one of The Peninsula’s famous Rolls-Royces and a spectacular helicopter tour of the city, this is Hong Kong’s high life at its most blissfully indulgent.

LOT #5: Two-day educational experience at L’ECOLE Van Cleef & Arpels on the Place Vendôme and high jewelery atelier tour, including Cathay Pacific business class return flights for two to Paris and accommodation at The Peninsula Paris.

Founded by legendary jewellery maison Van Cleef & Arpels in 2012, L’ECOLE Van Cleef & Arpels was set up to offer an unrivaled firsthand insight into the secretive worlds of jewelery and watchmaking. This two-day educational tour of the Place Vendôme institution allows visitors to experience firsthand some of the highly specialized techniques and exceptional craftsmanship that goes into creating the maison’s exquisite pieces, as well as the opportunity to sample the impeccable hospitality at the newly opened Peninsula Paris.

LOT #6: RALPH LAUREN PINK ALLIGATOR RICKY BAG

Peninsula – Pink Tie Gala 2015 – Ralph Lauren Pink Alligator Ricky Bag

Named in honor of Ralph Lauren’s wife, Ricky Lauren, the elegant Ricky Bag is one of the iconic American brand’s most sought-after accessories. Crafted by hand over 12 hours, the bag is fashioned from high-quality materials such as python, burnished calf, ostrich and alligator, and is instantly recognizable thanks to its signature lock.

The Museum Of Modern Art Appoints La Frances Hui Associate Curator In The Department Of Film

The Museum of Modern Art announces that La Frances Hui will join the Museum as Associate Curator in the Department of Film, beginning October 13. In this role, Ms. Hui will serve as a strategic collaborator in driving the department’s extensive calendar of programs, exhibitions, collections and scholarship under the leadership of Rajendra Roy, the Museum’s Celeste Bartos Chief Curator of Film. She joins MoMA following 15 years at the Asia Society in New York, where she served as Film Curator and Associate Director of Cultural Programs. During her tenure, she curated film series covering a wide spectrum of Chinese cinema, from silent classics to propaganda films to contemporary mainstream cinema and independent films. With expertise in a variety of Asian cinemas, she has also organized series featuring Japanese documentaries, New Wave Japanese cinema, contemporary Thai films, New Wave Iranian cinema, and popular Korean filmmaking.

La Frances Hui (PRNewsFoto/Museum of Modern Art)

“MoMA’s commitment to cinema has always extended beyond North American centers of production to include work from innovative international filmmakers,” said Mr. Roy. “La’s rich knowledge of Asian cinema, combined with her unique professional experience in program development and implementation, will afford us with critical opportunities to engage with a spectrum of moving image artists in ever more essential ways.”

At Asia Society, Ms. Hui presented retrospectives of directors Tsai Ming-Liang, Jafar Panahi, Midi Z, and Shohei Imamura. In addition, she curated a series of independent Chinese documentaries for Film Southasia, Kathmandu and was co-curator of the 36th Asian American International Film Festival (2013), a festival dedicated to Asian and Asian American film and media.

The Museum of Modern Art‘s Department of Film marks its 80th anniversary in 2015. Founded in 1935 as the Film Library, it holds one of the strongest international collections of motion pictures in the world—totaling more than 30,000 films between the permanent and study collections—and is a leader in film preservation and a discoverer of emerging talent. Playing an essential role in MoMA‘s mission to collect, preserve, and exhibit modern and contemporary art, the Department of Film was awarded an Honorary Academy Award in 1978 “for the contribution it has made to the public’s perception of movies as an art form.”

Los Angeles LGBT Center To Honor Jane Fonda, With Award Presented By Lily Tomlin at 46th Anniversary Gala Vanguard Awards

Screenwriter Ron Nyswaner to be Presented Award By Frances McDormand

Los Angeles LGBT Center’s 46TH Anniversary Gala Vanguard Awards Saturday, November 7, At The Hyatt Regency Century Plaza

The Los Angeles LGBT Center is proud to announce that two-time Academy Award winner Jane Fonda and Academy Award nominated screenwriter Ron Nyswaner will be honored at the Center’s 46^th Anniversary Gala Vanguard Awards on November 7 at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza in Los Angeles. Fonda will receive the award from the incomparable Lily Tomlin, her co-star in the hit show, Grace and Frankie. Nyswaner’s award will be presented by Frances McDormand.

Since 1969 the Los Angeles LGBT Center has cared for, championed and celebrated LGBT individuals and families in Los Angeles and beyond. Today the Center’s more than 500 employees and 3,000 volunteers provide services for more LGBT people than any other organization in the world, offering programs, services and global advocacy that span four broad categories: Health, Social Services and Housing, Culture and Education, Leadership and Advocacy.

Frances Mcdormand

Lily Tomlin

Ron Nyswaner

One of the nation’s premier LGBT charity events, the Center’s Anniversary Gala Vanguard Awards will bring together more than 1,200 LGBT people and their allies to enjoy cocktails, dinner, and entertainment, while celebrating inspirational honorees who exemplify courage, compassion, and a relentless tenacity for creating positive change in the world. The evening also features an extensive silent auction that includes high-end items, packages, and experiences.

“This honor means a lot to me. The work that the Center does for the LGBT community, its children, and extended families is profound and essential,” said Fonda, who will soon appear in director Paolo Sorrentino’s Youth.

Fonda became a friend and ally to the LGBT community at a time when celebrities advocating for LGBT rights was almost unthinkable. She campaigned with Harvey Milk against California’s anti-LGBT Briggs Initiative, fought Anita Bryant – the notorious activist who demonized LGBT with a campaign to repeal an anti-discrimination ordinance in Florida – and has been a lifelong supporter of the LGBT community and champion for human rights.

“Since long before I worked with Jane, I was in awe of her energy, activism, and generosity,” said Tomlin. “Three decades later, I am still in awe of her and feel truly privileged to bestow this well-deserved honor. She has earned this over and over and over in her lifetime.“

Nyswaner is an openly gay writer, producer, documentary filmmaker, activist and pioneer in LGBT-related films. He’s the Academy Award-nominated screenwriter of Philadelphia, the first major studio film to address homophobia and AIDS, and is the winner of a Peabody Award for his film Soldier’s Girl, which tells the true-life story of transgender heroine Calpernia Addams. More recently he wrote Freeheld—starring Julianne Moore and Ellen Page—the groundbreaking story of a woman’s struggle to win her lesbian partner’s pension benefits after she’s diagnosed with terminal cancer. He is also the co-creator of the Nyswaner/Salzman Film Archive, the fourth largest LGBT film archive in the United States.

Sponsors of the Center’s Anniversary Vanguard Awards include DIAMOND SPONSOR: Wells Fargo; PLATINUM SPONSORS: AT&T DirecTV and The Palette Fund; GOLD SPONSORS: Anita May Rosenstein Foundation, American Airlines, Comcast NBCUniversal, Nordstrom, Bloomberg Philanthropies, General Motors, U.S. Bank, Van Fletcher & Skip Paul, Southern California Gas Company, Barry McCabe, PacFed, Greg Fullmer/Danny Hawkins/Douglas Dyakon, Curt Shepard & Alan Hergott, and Lionsgate; SILVER SPONSORS: The Huntington, Ralphs/Food4Less, Union Bank, Target, Out@WB, The David Bohnett Foundation, Johnson Controls, The Hyatt Regency Century City Plaza, LabCorp, Rose Greene, Nihon Kohden, UTA Foundation, and JPMorgan Chase & Co.; IN-KIND SPONSORS: Pride.com & The Advocate, LA Pride, Stoli, Pasquini Coffee, and Lesbian News; and OFFICIAL WINE SPONSOR: Kobler Estate Winery

Additional participants and attendees will be announced in the coming weeks. Please visit www.lgbtvanguardawards.org for additional information including details on how to purchase tickets.

Delta Celebrates 11th Annual ‘Breast Cancer One’ Survivor Flight

Airline Kicks Off BCRF Fundraising Campaign With First-Ever International Route And Updated Livery

Delta Air Lines‘ annual “Breast Cancer One” employee survivor flight took flight October 1^st, kicking off the airline’s month-long campaign to generate awareness and raise funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This year marks Delta’s 11^th annual survivor flight, which carried more than 140 employee breast cancer survivors on board Delta’s newly painted pink plane on the flight’s first international route from New York City to Mexico City.

Delta recently repainted its iconic “Pink Plane” in advance of the airline’s 11th Annual “Breast Cancer One” survivor flight. (PRNewsFoto/Delta Air Lines)

Since 2005, Delta employees, customers and their friends and family members have raised more than $9.2 million for BCRF, including last year’s efforts of $1.3 million. The collective contributions have also funded the vital work of 37 different research projects over the years.

“As Delta continues to focus on expansion in Latin America and the Caribbean, we are proud to showcase on a global scale, our commitment to finding a cure,” said Sandy Gordon, Delta’s Vice President – In-Flight Service. “Our 80,000 employees worldwide look forward to this campaign each year and rally together to find new, innovative ways to generate awareness and funds for BCRF. We are grateful for our employees and customers for their continued passion and support as we work together to eradicate breast cancer.”

Delta Air Lines and the Delta Connection carriers offer service to nearly 370 destinations on six continents. For more information visit news.delta.com. (PRNewsFoto/Delta Air Lines)

Delta’s international Boeing 767-400ER, the “Pink Plane” which has adorned a pink-themed livery since 2010, was due for a repaint this year. As a result, teams in Delta’s Marketing department as well as those in Delta’s TechOps division worked together to design a refreshed look while taking advantage of a unique paint formula to wrap the fuselage in a pink ribbon. In 2012 the aircraft was formally dedicated to the memory of Evelyn Lauder who founded the Breast Cancer Research Foundation in 1993. The aircraft flies international routes and will raise awareness for BCRF around the world this year. Delta’s first pink plane was a Boeing 757 that flew between 2005 and 2010 throughout the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean to generate awareness for the cause.

Images of the BCRF plane on Septeber 20, 2015. © 2015, Chris Rank, Rank Studios

Images of the BCRF plane on Septeber 20, 2015. © 2015, Chris Rank, Rank Studios

Images of the BCRF plane on Septeber 20, 2015. © 2015, Chris Rank, Rank Studios

Images of the BCRF plane on Septeber 20, 2015. © 2015, Chris Rank, Rank Studios

Images of the BCRF plane on Septeber 20, 2015. © 2015, Chris Rank, Rank Studios

The next day, it was a Pink Power party in the Big Apple. The women from Delta’s 11th annual “Breast Cancer One” employee survivor flight were featured this morning on NBC’s “Today” show – branded as #PinkPowerToday. Dressed in pink, of course, survivors spoke with special correspondent and breast cancer survivor Joan Lunden, along with hosts Hoda Kotb – a fellow survivor – and Savannah Guthrie as part of the network’s coverage of breast cancer awareness.
The employee survivors, along with Delta leaders and BCRF executives, traveled from New York City’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to the Mexico City International Airport. Survivors were celebrated and honored during a gatehouse event in New York and an event in Aeromexico’s hangar in Mexico City. In Mexico, survivors was treated to an overnight stay which included dinner and a meet-and-greet with Dr. Sofia Merajver, one of BCRF’s world-renowned researchers. Nearly 80 percent of the Delta employees involved are first-time participants.

Colleagues from Delta’s partner airline Aeromexico will took part in this experience, showcasing the international scope of the effort to end breast cancer.

For the second year in a row, select Delta customers who are breast cancer survivors or currently under treatment for the disease and their guests also joined the flight. Delta customers were encouraged to share stories of the person who provided tireless support during their journey through the airline’s Unsung Hero social media contest. As a result, two customers and their unsung heroes were chosen to join Delta employees on this year’s flight.

In addition to the Unsung Hero contest, Delta also held a SkyMiles Experiences online auction, where three customers donated a total of 263,071 miles, which will go directly toward BCRF and its efforts. The three customers, along with their guests, will also be a part of the flight, totaling 10 total customers on board.

“Delta has been instrumental in advancing the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s mission to be the end of breast cancer,” said Myra Biblowit, President of BCRF. “Their passionate and dedicated employees worldwide are a driving force in the eradication of this disease. Delta’s commitment is clear: over the last decade, they have solidly moved the dial on raising awareness and saving lives through research.”

To further raise awareness and support for breast cancer research, Delta employees will wear pink uniforms and sell pink products, including pink lemonade and pink headsets, on board and in Delta Sky Clubs throughout the month of October. Proceeds from the airline’s pink products will benefit BCRF. Additional information, including how to donate, is available on delta.com/bcrf.

Eddie Bauer Limited Edition by Ilaria Urbinati Collection Now Available

This past week, Eddie Bauer announced the launch of the highly anticipated Eddie Bauer Limited Edition by Ilaria Urbinati collection. Designed by the leading fashion stylist, the collection is marked by uncompromising quality, value and performance with a nod to Eddie Bauer‘s iconic heritage and styling rooted in the outdoors. The collection is now available at select Eddie Bauer and Nordstrom stores as well as online at www.eddiebauer.com and www.nordstrom.com.

Eddie Bauer (PRNewsFoto/Eddie Bauer)

Ilaria Urbinati has an extensive background in the fashion industry and is one of Hollywood’s most sought-after stylists today. She began her career as a buyer at some of Los Angeles’ top fashion boutiques before opening her own store in 2008 called Confederacy, which catered to many prominent celebrities and musicians. There she collaborated with Albert Hammond, Jr. of The Strokes on a limited edition line of suits that were most notably worn by Ryan Gosling in Crazy Stupid Love. Urbinati has become renowned for her ability to style clients with distinction while taking into consideration their personality, body type and desire for timeless quality. She has since collaborated with many top designers, including Gucci and Ferragamo, on custom designs for her clientele. By 2014, she was listed as one of the top “25 Power Stylists” by The Hollywood Reporter, dressing leading men such as Bradley Cooper, Ben Affleck, James Marsden and Ryan Reynolds for red carpet and press events.

“I’m known more as a men’s stylist than a women’s stylist, and I think part of the reason for that is I don’t go for a lot of bells and whistles. I really aim for a timeless, iconic look. I look to guys like Paul Newman and Marlon Brando and Steve McQueen. Fifty years from now, their photos will still feel modern and current” said Urbinati. “I try and adhere to that ethic with my clients now, and make sure they look timeless and masculine. I think sometimes people feel when they’re styling that the result has to look styled. But I actually try and make it look like I wasn’t there. My favorite book is The Fountainhead, which always talks about how, in a home, every single piece should have a purpose. I think of clothes in that way. I don’t like random tabs and things that are there just for the sake of being cute or something. Especially with menswear, I like the idea of everything having a little bit of a purpose.”

1936 Modified Skyliner Bomber Jacket, Eddie Bauer Limited Edition by Ilaria Urbinati (PRNewsFoto/Eddie Bauer)

“One thing I’ve heard a few times is that they [my male clients] all look like themselves,” she continues. “like individuals. They don’t look like a stylist dressed them. I really try and bring out their personality. Some of them are preppier, some are more rugged, and some are more elegant. It’s all different. I want to make sure that they always feel like they look like themselves.”

The limited edition collection features a full suite of outerwear, apparel, accessories and gear and fuses modern style and fit with iconic Eddie Bauer heritage to create the ultimate sportswear line, marked by uncompromising quality, value, and performance. Anchored by modern updates to classic Eddie Bauer pieces, Urbinati has created a collection for the modern adventurer. New styles include a modern interpretation of Eddie Bauer’s 1936 Skyliner Jacket and 1953 Kara Koram Down Parka, as well as Fair Isle sweaters, buffalo-check flannel shirts, and chino pants with a custom-designed camouflage print using the brand’s iconic goose logo.

The hero product for the collection is a modern interpretation of Eddie Bauer’s 1936 Skyliner Jacket – the first down jacket to be patented in America. Fusing contemporary style and fit, the 1936 Modified Skyliner Bomber Jacket features 700 fill Premium Goose Down, a DWR finish to shed moisture, quilted stich detailing and a rib-knit collar, cuff, and hem. Other noteworthy styles include the Modified Kara Koram Down Parka, Deer Valley Fair Isle Cardigan, Woodhacker Heavy Twill Shirt-Jacket, and the Arrowhead Modern Slim Chino Pants featuring a custom Eddie Bauer goose camouflage.

What drew her to the timeless character of the Eddie Bauer brand? “I think because I’m from Europe, I have a “grass is greener thing” about America being great. So I’ve always been really drawn to Americana and the timeless all-American appeal. When I sat down with my team to talk about my next step, I thought about a men’s collaboration. They asked me for a list and the first one on my list was Eddie Bauer. I wanted a brand that had heritage that was all-American, that was iconic, but that needed a little bit of sprucing up for a younger, more hip clientele—a little more tailored. I loved the heritage of Eddie, the history of Eddie. I felt like we could bring that to a cool young guy.”

“We are excited to partner with Ilaria on this collection. We hold a high level of respect for what she has accomplished both in her career and with this capsule collection,” said Mike Egeck, Chief Executive Officer for Eddie Bauer. “Ilaria came into the partnership with a strong appreciation for Eddie Bauer’s heritage. Together, we were able to create a timeless collection that represents the modern outdoorsman.”

How do you see this line evolving? “I would love to do another collection again. I hope that this sells out and we do another one. There have been rumors, whispers, of maybe adding a women’s collection at some point, which would also be really fun. I’d love to do a women’s line as well, and to be able to do both would be fun. But I definitely hope to do more. And keep evolving the line—seeing what the customer response is and keeping an ear out for needs and wants. The collection is really styled the way I see the pieces being put together, and the collection is designed for every piece to work together. It actually made the styling for the launch event at Sundance hard because there were so many options of how things could have gone together. Ideally, you should be able to buy a few pieces and they all work together.”

The limited edition collection joins Eddie Bauer’s premium product series including award-winning technical outerwear and gear from First Ascent, active wear from Motion, field apparel and gear from Sport Shop, travel-ready apparel from Travex, and active lifestyle apparel.

Clement At The Peninsula New York Announces Fall Lineup For 2015 Color Room Wine Dinner Series

This fall, The Peninsula New York will welcome back its Annual Wine Dinner Series beginning this October. Taking place in the Color Room of Clement, the hotel’s signature restaurant, the three scheduled events will showcase the talents of some of the world’s most renowned winemakers from the United States and Europe, while guests enjoy the culinary delights of Clement’s contemporary dining experience.

The splendour of nature and city is unleashed upon the walls of the Color Room with a dramatic etching entitled “Wild New York. (Photo Credit: newyork.peninsula.com)

The wine dinner series will kick off with its first event this October, with the hotel’s new Executive Chef, Sam Linder serving up a four-course menu utilizing local meat, fish and produce for guests. Those with a passion for fine wines will enjoy sampling five hand-picked wines from three world-renowned vineyards, while learning moThe Peninsula New Yorkre about the art of winemaking alongside the brand’s most notable individuals. Together with Clement’s Director of Wine, Jared Fischer, the individuals will share extensive knowledge surrounding each winery’s history and culture while personally guiding guests through the tasting.

The following lineup will take place this fall:

Soliste Barrels (Photo Courtesy of The Peninsula New York)

Soliste Cellars Bottle Line up (Photo Courtesy of The Peninsula New York)

October 6: Soliste Cellars, Sonoma, CA; hosted by Claude Koeberle, Owner

A collaboration between long-time friends Claude Koeberle, a former Three-star Michelin Chef turned winemaker and Donald Plumley, the mission of Soliste Cellars is simple: to craft the best possible Burgundian-style wines. The Soliste wines are precise, focused, high-tone aromatic and vibrant, combining the purity of California fruit with the sensitivity and finesse of Burgundian winemaking, creating wines of great complexities and length.

Soliste Vineyard (Photo Courtesy of The Peninsula New York)

Two-Time Oscar Winner Robert De Niro to be Honored with the Hollywood Career Achievement Award at the 19th Annual Hollywood Film Awards®

The 19th Annual Hollywood Film Awards will take place Sunday, November 1, 2015 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel

The 2015-2016 Awards season has officially begun. dick clark productions announced that two-time Oscar-winning actor Robert De Niro will be honored with the “Hollywood Career Achievement Award.” The awards ceremony will take place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, on November 1, 2015.

Hollywood Film Awards (PRNewsFoto/dick clark productions)

The Hollywood Film Awards®, founded in 1997, were created to celebrate Hollywood and launch the awards season and recognized excellence in the art of cinema and filmmaking for 18 years, honoring some of the world’s biggest stars. The recipients of the awards are selected by an Advisory Team for their body of work and/or a film(s) that is to be released during the calendar year. Honorees have gone on to garner many Oscar nominations and wins. Past honorees of the “Hollywood Career Achievement Award” include Glenn Close, Harrison Ford, Richard Gere, Dustin Hoffman, Michael Keaton and Robin Williams among others.

Robert De Niro is currently starring in Warner Bros. Pictures‘ “The Intern” and will appear next in 20th Century Fox‘s “Joy,” coming out December 25, 2015. He will next be seen in the upcoming boxing film “Hands of Stone,” Lionsgate‘s “Dirty Grandpa” and Grindhouse Entertainment‘s “Bus 657.” Currently, he is filming HBO’s “Wizard of Lies,” in which he is starring as Bernie Madoff and co-producing.

De Niro recently starred in Warner Bros.’ “Grudge Match,” David O. Russell‘s “American Hustle,” CBS Films’ “Last Vegas,” Relativity Media‘s “The Family,” Millennium‘s “The Killing Season,” and Lionsgate‘s “The Big Wedding.” Other recent film credits include Focus Features‘ “Being Flynn,” Grindstone Entertainment‘s “Freelancers,” and “Red Lights,” New Line Cinema‘s “New Year’s Eve,” thriller “Limitless,” “Little Fockers,” the third installment of the highly successful Tribeca Productions‘ “Meet the Parents” franchise, Filmauro‘s Italian romantic comedy “Manuale d’amore 3,” Nu Image Films‘ psychological thriller “Stone,” and 20th Century Fox‘s “Machete.”

“The Hollywood Film Awards is an incredible brand, previewing some of the biggest movies and stars of the year, while launching the award season,” said Allen Shapiro, CEO of dick clark productions. “We are honored to have Robert De Niro as this year’s recipient of the Hollywood Career Achievement Award.”

Mr. De Niro launched his prolific motion picture career in Brian De Palma‘s “The Wedding Party” in 1969. By 1974 he had won the New York Film Critics Award for Best Supporting Actor in recognition of his critically acclaimed performance in “Bang the Drum Slowly” and from the National Society of Film Critic for Martin Scorsese‘s “Mean Streets.” In 1974 De Niro won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of the young Vito Corleone in “The Godfather, Part II.”

In 1980, he won his second Oscar, as Best Actor, for his extraordinary portrayal of Jake La Motta in Scorsese’s “Raging Bull.” De Niro has earned Academy Award nominations for his work in five additional films: as Travis Bickle in Scorsese’s acclaimed “Taxi Driver;” as a Vietnam vet in Michael Cimino‘s “The Deer Hunter;” as a catatonic patient brought to life in Penny Marshall‘s “Awakenings;” in 1992 as Max Cady, an ex-con looking for revenge, in Scorsese’s remake of the 1962 classic “Cape Fear;” and as a father to a bi-polar son in David O. Russell‘s “Silver Linings Playbook.”

In 2009, De Niro received the coveted Kennedy Center Honor for his distinguished acting. He also received the Hollywood Actor Award from the Hollywood Film Festival, which he won again in 2012, and the Stanley Kubrick Award from the BAFTA Britannia Awards. In addition, AARP The Magazine gave De Niro the 2010 Movies for Grownups Lifetime Achievement Award. De Niro was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 2011 Golden Globe Awards. He also served as the jury president of the 64th Cannes Film Festival.

His distinguished body of work also includes performances in Elia Kazan‘s “The Last Tycoon“; Bernardo Bertolucci‘s “1900“; Ulu Grosbard‘s “True Confessions” and “Falling in Love“; Sergio Leone‘s “Once Upon a Time in America“; Scorsese’s “King of Comedy,” “New York, New York,” “Goodfellas,” and “Casino“; Terry Gilliam‘s “Brazil“; Roland Joffe‘s “The Mission“; Brian De Palma‘s “The Untouchables“; Alan Parker‘s “Angel Heart“; Martin Brest‘s “Midnight Run“; David Jones‘ “Jacknife“; Martin Ritt‘s “Stanley and Iris“; Neil Jordan‘s “We’re No Angels“; Penny Marshall’s “Awakenings”; Ron Howard‘s “Backdraft“; Michael Caton-Jones‘ “This Boy’s Life“; John McNaughton‘s “Mad Dog and Glory“;  Kenneth Branagh‘s “Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein“; Michael Mann‘s “Heat“; Barry Levinson‘s “Sleepers” and “Wag the Dog“; Jerry Zaks‘ “Marvin’s Room“; Tony Scott‘s “The Fan“; James Mangold‘s “Copland“; Alfonso Cuarón‘s “Great Expectations“; Quentin Tarantino‘s “Jackie Brown“; John Frankenheimer‘s “Ronin“; Harold Ramis‘ “Analyze This” and “Analyze That“; Joel Schumacher‘s “Flawless“; Des McNuff‘s “The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle“; George Tillman‘s “Men of Honor“; John Herzfeld‘s “Fifteen Minutes“; Frank Oz‘s “The Score“; Tom Dey‘s “Showtime“; Michael Caton-Jones‘ “City By The Sea;” Nick Hamm‘s “Godsend;” John Polson‘s “Hide and Seek“; Mary McGuckian‘s “The Bridge of San Luis Rey“; DreamWorks‘s “Shark Tale” Jay Roach‘s “Meet The Parents,” and “Meet the Fockers,” Barry Levinson‘s “What Just Happened,” Jon Avnet‘s “Righteous Kill” and Kirk Jones‘ “Everybody’s Fine.”

De Niro takes pride in the development of his production company, Tribeca Productions, the Tribeca Film Center, which he founded with Jane Rosenthal in 1988, and in the Tribeca Film Festival, which he founded with Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff in 2001 as a response to the attacks on the World Trade Center. The festival was conceived to foster the economic and cultural revitalization of Lower Manhattan through an annual celebration of film, music, and culture; the festival’s mission is to promote New York City as a major filmmaking center and help filmmakers reach the broadest possible audiences.

Through Tribeca Productions, De Niro develops projects on which he serves in a combination of capacities, including producer, director and actor. Tribeca’s “A Bronx Tale” in 1993 marked De Niro’s directorial debut. He later directed and co-starred in “The Good Shepherd” with Matt Damon and Angelina Jolie. Other Tribeca features include “Thunderheart,” “Cape Fear,” “Mistress,” “Night and the City,” “The Night We Never Met,” “Faithful,” “Panther,” “Marvin’s Room,” “Wag the Dog,” “Analyze This,” “Flawless,” “ The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle,” “Meet the Parents,” “Fifteen Minutes,” “Showtime,”  “Analyze That” and “Meet the Fockers.”

In 1992, Tribeca TV was launched with the acclaimed series “Tribeca.”  De Niro was one of the executive producers. Tribeca Productions is headquartered at De Niro’s Tribeca Film Center in the Tribeca district of New York. The Film Center is a state-of-the-art office building designed for the Film and television industry. The facility features office space, a screening room, banquet hall and restaurant. The center offers a full range of services for entertainment professionals.

Last year’s Hollywood Film Awards® honorees and presenters included Amy Adams, Ben Affleck, Gerard Butler, Steve Carell, Benedict Cumberbatch, Geena Davis, Laura Dern, Johnny Depp, Robert Downey Jr., Robert Duvall, Jonah Hill, Ron Howard, Randy Jackson , Angelina Jolie, Michael Keaton, Keira Knightley, Jared Leto, Jennifer Lopez, Julianne Moore, Janelle Monáe, Jack O’Connell, Eddie Redmayne, Chris Pratt, Channing Tatum, Robert Pattinson, Chris Rock, Kristen Stewart, Hilary Swank, Christoph Waltz, Reese Witherspoon and Shaileene Woodley among others.

Luxury Travel: The Kessler Collection Set to Open First Luxury Boutique Hotel in the State of Alabama

The Kessler Collection, a portfolio of 11 artistically-inspired boutique hotels and restaurants, is excited to debut in Alabama with the opening of Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook on October 23, 2015. Located in the affluent Mountain Brook suburb of Birmingham, Ala., this 100-room boutique hotel will continue The Kessler Collection‘s award-winning commitment to providing superior guest services, Bohemian inspiration and artistic offerings. The highly anticipated property will be the first luxury boutique hotel of its caliber in the state of Alabama, boasting an on-site Grand Bohemian Gallery featuring rare, local and international original artwork, signature Poseidon Spa, grand ballroom and meeting spaces, interactive cooking school, wine blending experience and tasting room with curated selections, vibrant rooftop terrace and restaurant showcasing regional flavors.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, The Kessler Collection Marriott International Autograph Collection

Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook welcomes guests to a European, floral atmosphere through bold colors and oversized chairs, custom designed carpets and lighting that reflect Birmingham Botanical Gardens‘ dynamic and vibrant grounds while remaining true to the Kessler brand. Guestrooms boast rich colored drapery and Mitch Kolbe artwork. The Bohemian Presidential and Vice Presidential Suites feature hardwood floors, extraordinary custom interior textiles and furnishings complemented by beautiful views of the gardens. The Grand Bohemian Presidential Suite touts two balconies, a custom bar, and fireplace for guests who want a comforting respite at the end of the night. Lavish bathrooms are adorned with Calcutta gold marble counters, colorful glass sconces and framed antique glass vanity mirrors.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, The Kessler Collection Marriott International Autograph Collection

Guests looking to mingle can dine at Habitat Feed & Social, the rooftop restaurant for a mouth-watering selection of fresh, regionally inspired cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. The bar serves an assortment of botanically- inspired cocktails, and opens onto the rooftop terrace. The country club chic hotel also offers a cooking school where guests learn about modern cuisine, hands-on or demonstration style. Next to the cooking school, guests play the role of a Vintner with one-of-a-kind Bohemian wine tasting and blending experiences, where guests can taste test 32 different types of wine from a state-of-the-art automated wine dispenser, blend their own custom red varietal during a 90-minute interactive educational class, as well as create a personalized label for their masterpiece.

Room model for Kessler Collection, Bohemian, Mountain Brook, Mountain Brook, Alabama.

Healing the mind, body and spirit, guests are transported to a sea-inspired oasis of relaxation at Poseidon Spa. The spa offers a peaceful, botanical setting featuring a sustainable living wall garden, gorgeous organic wall coverings, stunning custom chandeliers and plush teal velvet seating. Extraordinary treatments at the elegant, full-service spa include herbal poultice massage, lavender peppermint scalp treatment and an aqua gel facial masque. Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook will also offer a 24-hour fitness center equipped with cardio machines, custom-programmed music and outdoor pool.

The Kessler Collection set to open the Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook, the first luxury boutique hotel in the state of Alabama on Oct. 23, 2015. (PRNewsFoto/The Kessler Collection)

Conveniently located adjacent to the city of Birmingham, the previous industrial center of the Southern U.S., Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook has the best of both worlds, as it is a part of the unique architectural charm of Mountain Brook while being close to downtown Birmingham entertainment. Birmingham is home to the nation’s oldest baseball park, Rickwood Field; Birmingham Museum of Art; the Local Wine Trail with vineyards and wineries; and the Sidewalk Film Festival, all which offer visitors a truly exclusive experience.

Grand Bohemian Hotel Mountain Brook will consistently attract visiting couples, family getaways, weddings, college football games and business travelers with sophisticated offerings set in a Southern retreat.

Capturing the classical and unconventional spirit of Bohemian cultures, The Kessler Collection‘s portfolio of passionately created and artistically inspired boutique hotels boast chic design, luxurious accommodations, enriching ambiance and intuitive service. Whether visiting properties in Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Florida, New Mexico, North Carolina or South Carolina, each hotel’s exquisite art, music and cultural influences are deliberately approachable. Designed to inspire mystique and unforgettable experiences, Kessler guests are bathed in re-defined Bohemian luxury, from an 1888 historic hotel, a cutting edge downtown icon and Bavarian-inspired Castle, to a high design southern mansion and elite ski lodge.

The Kessler Collection was the founding member of the Marriott Autograph Collection, introduced with seven Autograph Collection branded hotels. Each property is a boldly, original hotel carefully created with style and the individualist traveler in mind. The Autograph Collection Hotels celebrates a collection of independent leaders in film, art, design and literature by curating one-of-a-kind travel experiences at more than 80 luxury lifestyle hotels found in the world’s most desirable destinations. Exactly like nothing else, each hotel has been hand selected for its distinction as an iconic landmark, for its remarkable design or for its best-in-class resort amenities. Marriott International‘s luxury and lifestyle brands portfolio currently includes The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, EDITION, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, the Autograph Collection, Renaissance Hotels, AC Hotels by Marriott and Moxy Hotels.

For more information about The Kessler Collection and its properties, please visit www.kesslercollection.com or call 888.472.6312, www.autographhotels.com, or explore our social-media channels to learn more about championing the independent spirit:

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