2015 Gary’s Grand Wine Experience October 24-26: Three Days of Wine, Food & Philanthropy

Get Your Tickets Now!

Thanks to the enormous success of previous Grand Tastings—and with overwhelming support from top Napa Valley vintners—this year, Gary’s Wine & Marketplace is expanding their annual fall fundraiser into a three-day event: GARY’S GRAND WINE EXPERIENCE. (Tickets & Packages Starting at $80, www.garyswine.com/gwx)

Founded in 1987, Gary’s has grown to one of the largest fine wine businesses in the United States, with four locations in New Jersey (Wayne, Madison, Bernardsville and Hillsborough) and an online store offering shipping to 37 states. The premier source of top Napa wines in the U.S, Gary’s is committed to attentive service, unparalleled selection and myriad wine & food events for the public. Innovation is one of the many reasons Gary’s was named 2014 Retailer of The Year (Market Watch Magazine) and received a 2015 Great Oak Award from New Jersey Monthly magazine for corporate social responsibility.

This year’s event offers more opportunities for food & wine lovers to explore their passion, meet top Napa vintners; taste exclusive Napa Valley wines at a symposium moderated by Karen MacNeil, author of The Wine Bible and attend wine pairing dinners with special guest vintners at New Jersey‘s top restaurants.

A bigger celebration means more chances to support beneficiaries, for whom Gary’s Wine & Marketplace has raised more than $700,000 over the company’s lifespan.

COMPLETE EXPERIENCE PACKAGE: $295, Includes Hotel Wine Symposium + Wine Dinner (Choice of Venue) + Grand Tasting VIP Admission + one copy of The Wine Bible (2nd Edition) by Karen MacNeil

SUNDAY PACKAGE: $225, ncludes Hotel Wine Symposium + Wine Dinner (Choice of Venue) + one copy of The Wine Bible (2nd Edition) by Karen MacNeil.

SUNDAY DINNER: $150, Choice of Venue — The Bernards Inn / The Ryland Inn / Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen

GRAND TASTING VIP ADMISSION: $125, Beat the crowd and taste exclusive wines during VIP hour— Enter at 6:00pm. VIP ticket includes one copy of The Wine Bible (2nd Edition) by Karen MacNeil.

GRAND TASTING GENERAL ADMISSION: $80, Taste hundreds of wines from around the world! — Enter at 7:00pm

SATURDAY, 10/24 & SUNDAY, 10/25 noon – 4 pm
IN-STORE TASTINGS WITH VINTNERS AND WINEMAKERS – FREE
Gary’s Wine & Marketplace (Madison, Bernardsville, Wayne, Hillsborough, NJ)

SUNDAY, 10/25, 4 pm
NAPA VINTNERS SYMPOSIUM AND TASTING: Wine Symposium & Tasting with Napa Valley Vintners
The Madison Hotel (Morristown, NJ), 4 PM

Discover and taste exclusive Napa Valley wines with the vintners: Panel discussion moderated by Karen MacNeil, Author of The Wine Bible and Gary Fisch, CEO of Gary’s Wine & Marketplace with:
Bruce Philips/Vine Hill Ranch
Kathy Simpson/Barbour Vineyards
Miles MacDonnell/Round Pond Estate
Hugh Davies/J. Davies & Schramsberg
Lindy Novak/Spottswoode Winery
Mike Reynolds/Hall Wines

Arts News: QUEER/ART/MENTORSHIP Announces Its 2015-2016 Fellowship Winners

ELEVEN EMERGING ARTISTS SELECTED FOR YEAR LONG PROGRAM

Queer/Art/Mentorship, the multi-disciplinary, inter-generational arts program that pairs and supports mentorship between emerging and established LGBTQI artists in NYC, has announced today the eleven Fellows accepted for its 2015-2016 Annual Mentorship Cycle.  

Each of the Queer/Art/Mentorship Fellows selected (above) is paired with an established New York-based artist within their creative field for the yearlong mentorship. The relationship that develops aims to support the artistic and professional practice of the Fellow, as well as to develop community-wide conversations about what it means to generate and curate queer work in New York City and beyond.

The Fellows chosen in five artistic disciplines are Monstah Black, Eva Peskin and Justine Williams in Performance; Jacob Matkov and Brendan Williams-Childs in Literary; Rodrigo Bellott, Erin Greenwell and Mylo Mendez in Film; Caroline Wells Chandler and Doron Langberg in Visual Arts; and Hugh Ryan in Curatorial.

The Mentors they will be working with for the 2015-2016 Fellowship year are Arthur Aviles and Talvin Wilks in Performance; Jaime Manrique and Sarah Schulman in Literary; Thomas Allen Harris, Silas Howard and Stacie Passon in Film; Angela Dufresne and Avram Finkelstein in Visual Arts; and Shannon Michael Cane in Curatorial.

The 2015-2016 Queer/Art/Mentorship Fellows are:

Rodrigo Bellott was born in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. His breakout film, Sexual Dependency, won over 15 awards in over 65 film festivals around the world and was also Bolivia’s first film competing for “Best Foreign Language Film” at the 2004 Academy Awards. VARIETY magazine named Bellott as one of the “TOP TEN Latin American Talents to Watch”. Bellott will be working with Mentor, filmmaker Silas Howard on the film adaptation of his play Tu Me Manques, that explores contemporary queer identity in the moment of historical change in contrast with the current situations in other parts of the world.

Monstah Black is a multi-disciplinary performing artist and educator and has accumulated numerous awards including the Tom Murrine Performance Award and the BRIC Media Arts Fellowship. He has taught and performed internationally with various dance companies as well as with his own work. He is currently working on a dance film project called “Cotton” sponsored by the New York Foundation for the Arts. Monstah will be working with Mentor, dancer and choreographer Arthur Aviles on a performance project entitled HYPERBOLIC!.

Caroline Wells Chandler is a MFA recipient in painting at the Yale School of Art where he was awarded the Ralph Mayer Prize for proficiency in materials and techniques. With shows nationally and internationally, Chandler’s latest body of work entitled “The Best Little Whore House in Texas” opens this fall at the Roberto Paradise Gallery in San Juan, PR. Chandler will be working with Mentor, visual artist Angela Dufresne on a series of crocheted figurative works and resin paintings.

Erin Greenwell wrote and directed the feature film My Best Day, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2012. Her other directing endeavors include Oh Come On, a punk DIY performance video for Kathleen Hanna’s band The Julie Ruin and The Golden Age of Hustlers,  featuring Justin Vivian Bond‘s remake of the iconic song written by legendary punk chanteuse Bambi Lake. In 2006, Greenwell formed Smithy Productions, a production company, with the aim of cultivating talents from the queer/independent art community under the umbrella of narrative and documentary storytelling. Greenwell will be working with Mentor, director and screenwriter Stacie Passon to develop her narrative feature length script, The Flight Deck, based on the butch/femme lesbian bar scene in Buffalo, NY during the 1950s.

Don’t Miss The Signature Tastings At This Year’s Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival Presented By Food & Wine

The Big Apple’s 8th Annual Gourmet Gathering Returns October 15-18

2014 Food Network New York City Wine & Food Festival Presented By Food & Wine Raised $1 Million To Help Fight Hunger

Approximately 55,000 Attended the 7th Annual Festival to Eat. Drink. End Hunger

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 18: Volunteers wait to greet guests at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring KitchenAid® culinary demonstrations presented by MasterCard during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Pier 94 on October 18, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

The eighth annual Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE (NYCWFF) returns October 15–18, 2015. With more than 100 events taking place from Wall Street to Harlem, the Festival presents a variety of ways for people to sip, swirl and savor their way through offerings from some of the world’s best chefs and culinary personalities. Tickets are still available to the Festival’s signature tasting events taking place at its culinary campus on Piers 92 & 94 throughout the weekend. Approximately 55,000 passionate gourmands and aficionados helped raise $1 million for the nation’s leading hunger-relief organizations in 2014.

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE takes place October 15 – 18, 2015. (PRNewsFoto/Food Network & Cooking Channel..)

“Food Network was honored to once again partner with the amazing culinary talent and television personalities who generously gave their time to make the 2014 Festival weekend a success. Eradicating hunger, both here in New York and across the country, is something we know we can always count on our talent and fans to support and we are excited to see what Lee Schrager and his team curate for next year’s Festival,” said Brooke Johnson, President of Food Network & Cooking Channel.

The Food Network & Cooking Channel New York City Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE is hosted by and benefits the Food Bank For New York City and No Kid Hungry®, with 100% of the Festival’s net proceeds helping fight hunger. Southern Wine & Spirits of New York is the exclusive provider of wine and spirits at the Festival.

The Food Bank For New York City has been the city’s major hunger-relief organization working to end hunger throughout the five boroughs for more than 30 years. Nearly one in five New Yorkers relies on the Food Bank for food and other resources and the organization takes a strategic, multifaceted approach that provides meals and builds capacity in the neediest communities, while raising awareness and engagement among all New Yorkers. Through its network of more than 1,000 charities and schools citywide, Food Bank provides food for more than 63 million free meals for New Yorkers in need. The Food Bank For New York City‘s income support services, including food stamps (also known as SNAP) and free tax assistance for the working poor, put more than $100 million each year into the pockets of New Yorkers, helping them to afford food and achieve greater dignity and independence. In addition, Food Bank’s nutrition education programs and services empower more than 275,000 children, teens and adults to sustain a healthy diet on a low budget. To learn more about how you can help, please visit foodbanknyc.org.

No child should go hungry in America, but 1 in 5 kids will face hunger this year. Using proven, practical solutions, No Kid Hungry is ending childhood hunger today by ensuring that kids start the day with a nutritious breakfast and families learn the skills they need to shop and cook on a budget. When we all work together, we can make sure kids get the healthy food they need. No Kid Hungry is a campaign of national anti-hunger organization Share Our Strength. Join us at NoKidHungry.org.

The 135,000-sq. ft. gourmet centerpiece at Pier 94 will house the GRAND TASTING PRESENTED BY SHOPRITE FEATURING SAMSUNG® CULINARY DEMONSTRATIONS PRESENTED BY MASTERCARD taking place on Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18. New York’s newest and best restaurants and businesses will delight attendees with their dishes, as guests sip on the most notable wines and spirits from the Southern Wine & Spirits of New York portfolio. Everyone’s favorite Food Network and Cooking Channel culinary personalities and more celebrities will take to the Samsung® Culinary Demonstration stages presented by MasterCard to share some of their favorite recipes with fans. The schedule for the weekend includes:

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 18: Shaw-Ross International Importers pouring wine Chateau D’Esclans at The Lobster Place Presents Oyster Bash sponsored by Negra Modelo hosted by Tyler Florence during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at The Standard, High Line, Biergarten & Garden on October 18, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Mireya Acierto/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 18: Absolut Vodka on display at CHOPPED! Best Bloody Mary Brunch Perfected By ABSOLUT during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at New York Hilton – Grand Ballroom on October 18, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 18: TV Personality Andrew Zimmern runs a presentation at KitchenAid stage at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring KitchenAid® culinary demonstrations presented by MasterCard during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Pier 94 on October 18, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for NYCWFF) *** Local Caption *** Andrew Zimmern

Saturday, October 17
Anne Burrell, Giada De Laurentiis, Alex Guarnaschelli, Carla Hall, Katherine Heigl, Emeril Lagasse, Masaharu Morimoto, Rachael Ray, Marcus Samuelsson, Aarón Sánchez & John Besh, Tiffani Thiessen and Geoffrey Zakarian

Sunday, October 18*
Valerie Bertinelli, Bobby & Jamie Deen, Haylie Duff, Tyler Florence, Duff Goldman, Robert Irvine, Patti LaBelle, Katie Lee, Debi Mazar & Gabriele Corcos, Marc Murphy & Ted Allen, Michael Symon and Andrew Zimmern

*Guests attending the Samsung® Culinary Demonstrations on Sunday, October 18 will have the chance to win one of 12 pairs of tickets being given away to the movie premiere for BURNT on Tuesday, October 20.

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 19: Chef Anne Burrell poses with her book “Own Your Own Kitchen” conducts a culinary presentation on KitchenAid stage at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring KitchenAid® culinary demonstrations presented by MasterCard during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Pier 94 on October 19, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for NYCWFF) 

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 19: Chef Tyler Florence signs copies of his book “Fresh” at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring KitchenAid® culinary demonstrations presented by MasterCard during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Pier 94 on October 19, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for NYCWFF) 

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 19: Chef Marcus Samuelsson gives a cooking demonstration at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring KitchenAid® culinary demonstrations presented by MasterCard during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Pier 94 on October 19, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NYCWFF) 

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 19: View of the audience at the Grand Tasting presented by ShopRite featuring KitchenAid® culinary demonstrations presented by MasterCard during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Pier 94 on October 19, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 19: Chefs prepare food at Meatopia X: The Carnivore’s Ball Presented By Creekstone Farms Hosted By Michael Symon during New York City Wine & Food Festival at Esurance Rooftop Pier 92 on October 19, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by John Parra/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

Its next-door neighbor, Pier 92, will transform during the weekend as the platform for five signature Festival tastings. Beginning on Thursday, October 15, the pier will offer a taste of Italy from more than 30 of the nation’s best trattorias, slice-slingers and meatball shops at GIADA DE LAURENTIIS’ ITALIAN FEAST PRESENTED BY RONZONI SPONSORED BY THE NEW YORK POST. On Friday, October 16 America’s best burger maestros will battle it out to be crowned this year’s Blue Moon People’s Choice Award-winner or Pat LaFrieda’s 2015 NYCWFF Burger Bash® Champion at the iconic BLUE MOON BURGER BASH PRESENTED BY PAT LAFRIEDA MEATS HOSTED BY RACHAEL RAY.

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 16: Chefs Aaron Sanchez (L) and John Besh pose at the Johnny Sanchez Dinner hosted by John Besh, Aaron Sanchez and Katy Sparks as a part of the Bank of America Dinner Series during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Tavern On The Green on October 16, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Mireya Acierto/Getty Images for NYCWFF) *** Local Caption *** Aaron Sanchez; John Besh

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 16: Dead Rabbit cocktails being served at Cooking Channel Presents Chicken Coupe hosted by Whoopi Goldberg during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at The Loeb Boathouse on October 16, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 16: View of the Santa Cristina Wine station at Ronzoni’s La Sagra Slices hosted by Bongiovi Brand pasta sauces & Adam Richman presented by Time Out New York during the New York City Wine & Food Festival at Esurance Rooftop Pier 92 on October 16, 2014 in New York City. (Photo by Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for NYCWFF)

Uncork the World’s Greatest Champagnes with Champagne Masters

A Multi-Media Champagne Education Tool produced by Moet Hennessy USA

Just in time for the end-of-year holiday party season, Moët Hennessy USA announces the launch of ChampagneMasters.com, a mobile-ready education portal that teaches wine lovers the finer points of Champagne by examining five of the most esteemed Champagne houses in the world. 

Champagne Masters (PRNewsFoto/Moet Hennessy USA)

Taking a cue from how sommeliers are classically trained, the website is organized into three sections: Think Like a Master, Taste Like a Master and Serve Like a Master:

• Think Like A Master: Features a Champagne overview, reading resources and deep conversations between top sommeliers and world-class cellar masters.
• Taste Like A Master: Learn the art and science of tasting with five legendary wines:
  • Moët & Chandon: The Champagne of Success & Glamour since 1743. It delights with bright fruitiness, a seductive palate, and elegant maturity.
  • Veuve Clicquot: Each Cuvée is true to the Veuve Clicquot style and spirit, faithfully maintained to the standards of Madame Clicquot: “only one quality – the finest.”
  • Dom Pérignon: A vibrant, living, perpetually renewed homage that evokes Dom Pierre Pérignon, the spiritual father of Champagne.
  • Krug: Since 1843, six generations of the Krug family have cultivated the markedly individual character of their exceptional Champagne.
  • Ruinart: The oldest producer of Champagne, officially founded in 1729 by Nicolas Ruinart, who was the nephew of the monk Dom Thierry Ruinart.
• Serve Like A Master: Select, open and pour Champagne like a pro with a comprehensive glossary of terms, food pairing ideas and a step-by-step guide to opening a bottle.
  

  Champagne Masters (PRNewsFoto/Moet Hennessy USA)

“We built ChampagneMasters.com to help wine lovers better understand, appreciate and enjoy Champagne. We hope that the website’s rich conversations and educational tools will help grow the category and inspire a new generation of consumers to dive deeper into this storied beverage,” said Jon Potter, Chief Marketing Officer & Executive Vice President Brands at Moët Hennessy USA.

ChampagneMasters.com will continue to evolve over time, becoming an indispensable tool for every aspiring champagne master. It will also be supported by a national advertising campaign in print, digital and social media channels.

Link:  http://www.champagnemasters.com

Add to Home Screen Instructions: Follow these instructions to place a Champagne Masters icon on your phone’s home screen.

• Open your smartphone’s web browser and visit: http://www.champagnemasters.com
• iPhone: Tap the center button at the bottom nag of your browser. Then select ‘Add to Home Screen‘
• Android: Tap the menu button on either your device or the browser. Then select ‘Add to Home Screen‘

 

MOËT HENNESSY USA is the leading importer and marketer of luxury wines, spirits and champagnes in the U.S. The Moët Hennessy portfolio includes renowned brands such as: Hennessy Cognac; Moët & Chandon, Dom Pérignon, Krug, Veuve Clicquot and Ruinart Champagnes; Belvedere vodka; Grand Marnier; Glenmorangie and Ardbeg single malt Scotch whiskies; and fine wines, including Chateau d’Yquem, Cape Mentelle, Cloudy Bay, Newton Vineyard, Numanthia, Terrazas and Domaine Chandon California sparkling and still wines. Moët Hennessy has a strong consumer focus with an uncompromising commitment to building luxury brands.

Helzberg Diamonds Presents New Collection, TRULY Zac Posen

Helzberg Diamonds presents TRULY™ Zac Posen, a new collection of wedding jewelry from designer Zac Posen. Known for taking what is classic and elegant and giving it a contemporary flair, the New York City-based designer (and Project Runway judge) now brings this same approach to a sophisticated collection of engagement rings and wedding bands. (See the collection on helzberg.com or by visiting Helzberg stores nationwide.)

“This fashion-forward collection redefines today’s style and offers women everywhere access to luxurious designer wedding jewelry.” said Beryl Raff, Chairman and CEO of Helzberg Diamonds.

The artisanal collection of designs features classic, art deco and modern looks, each set with a signature yellow gold finger rest inside the shank of the engagement ring. Each ring coordinates with a matching band to complete the look. This collection is designed for the bride who desires the perfect mix of modern American glamour and timeless, romantic femininity.

“I’m excited to be introducing my Truly Zac Posen Collection for Helzberg Diamonds. Truly is my love note to a bride on her most beautiful day. Here’s to love!” said Posen.

Helzberg Diamonds®, a retail and online jewelry store focused on customer service, was founded in 1915 and has more than 230 stores nationwide, featuring a wide selection of fine jewelry, including diamond engagement and wedding rings, precious gems and watches. Helzberg Diamonds is based in North Kansas City, Mo., and is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Inc. For the locations nearest you, call 1-800-HELZBERG (800-435-9237) or visit Helzberg.com.

Holiday Entertaining 2015: Johnnie Walker® Scotch Whiskey Introduces Johnnie Walker(TM) Select Casks Series with the Rye Cask Finish

For nearly 200 years, the driving force behind the world’s leading Scotch whiskey brand, Johnnie Walker, has been its pioneering and innovative spirit. Johnnie Walker is the world’s number-one selling Scotch whiskey brand, representing the many people who enjoy it in more than 180 countries worldwide. John Walker pioneered blending when he founded the business in 1820 and never looked back, growing it from a grocer’s own Scotch whiskey into a stylish, global icon. It’s that same forward-looking perspective that drives the brand, and its consumers, today. The U.S. range of award-winning whiskies includes Johnnie Walker® Red Label®, Johnnie Walker® Black Label®, Johnnie Walker Double Black®, Johnnie Walker® Gold Label Reserve®, Johnnie Walker Platinum Label® and Johnnie Walker® Blue Label®.

Johnnie Walker Keep Walking (PRNewsFoto/Diageo)

Today, the Johnnie Walker brand continually strives to create new blends of the highest quality. It is in this tradition that Johnnie Walker will introduce its newest Scotch whiskey: Johnnie Walker Select Casks – Rye Cask Finish, a 10-year-old, 46%-ABV (92 U.S. proof), chill-filtered blended Scotch whiskey. This will be the first in a series of limited edition wood-finished Scotch blends that will be released over the coming years. Each will feature a different wood finish crafted for today’s whiskey enthusiast.

Johnnie Walker Select Casks – Rye Cask Finish (PRNewsFoto/Diageo)

Johnnie Walker Select Casks—Rye Cask Finish is a Scotch whiskey blend that showcases the best of Scottish blender’s Master Blender Jim Beveridge used whiskies matured for at least ten years in first-fill American Oak casks. He finished the Scotch in ex-rye whiskey casks, creating a complex new whiskey with rich layers of flavor starting with creamy vanilla notes and transitioning to a more spicy finish.

“From the early days when John Walker first blended whiskies in 1820 to the unique blends created today, Johnnie Walker has always thrived on experimentation. I believe that whiskey is ever evolving and experimental in nature and I am pleased to present the first rye cask finished blended Scotch whiskey,” said Beveridge. “Johnnie Walker Select Casks is a unique style of Scotch that blends the flavor characteristics of bourbon and rye with some of the classic signature notes and smoothness of Johnnie Walker.“

Naturalizer Shoes Fall Marketing Campaign Features Real Mother and Daughter Pairs, Showcasing Style at Any Age

Naturalizer Shoes Are Designed With The Best Of Each Season’s Trend-Right Looks, Details And Materials That Women Will Love For Work, Play And Every Day.

Naturalizer captures the essence of style at any age in its new marketing campaign. The brand engaged New York-based mother and daughter pairs to show how true style transcends generations. For more than 80 years, Naturalizer has understood how truly comfortable shoes can help women move energetically through their day and live life to the fullest. Naturalizer remains committed to designing beautiful shoes that feel as good at the end of the day as they do at the beginning.

Hannah, Martha & Emily Baker wearing the Naturalizer Jordie (PRNewsFoto/Caleres, Inc.)

“For almost 90 years, Naturalizer has celebrated the beauty and individuality of women through its commitment to delivering feminine, stylish and comfortable shoes,” said John Malpiedi, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Naturalizer. “Collaborating with real mothers and daughters was the perfect opportunity to show how Naturalizer transcends and connects generations and empowers women to express their unique sense of style.“

Naturalizer is honored to feature the special bond between mother and daughter in this campaign, as seen through the Durso, Sambucini and Baker families. Each family styled a different Naturalizer shoe – with mother and daughter adding their own twist – showcasing the timeless appeal of Naturalizer’s collection. The ladies also shared sweet reflections about their relationship and style, including:

Jill & Marilyn Durso wearing the Naturalizer Michelle (PRNewsFoto/Caleres, Inc.)

• Mother, Marilyn Durso: Being part of the Naturalizer campaign opened my eyes to the joy of relating to each other in such a personal way. Fashion and style can be another language between us now.
• Daughter, Jill Durso: My mother’s style has influenced mine quite literally in that I steal her clothes and shoes all the time! I don’t think I’ve purchased formal wear in a decade. Her wardrobe is ageless so it’s easy to mix and match things from each of our closets.
  

  Johanna & Johanny Sambucini wearing the Naturalizer Maureen (PRNewsFoto/Caleres, Inc.)

• Daughter, Johanna Sambucini: Naturalizer shoes are very stylish, comfortable and feature quality workmanship. These are things both my mother and I look for in a pair of shoes. I love the fact that we can both look good wearing Naturalizer shoes, no matter how old we are.
• Mother, Martha Baker: As my daughters were growing up, I advised them to choose classic pieces over trendy pieces, and discover a style that really highlighted their personality and worked for their body type.
• Daughters, Hannah and Emily Baker: We have always appreciated our mom’s ability to keep things classic while adding an unexpected accent piece to her look – such as statement jewelry or a funky hat.

Hear more from the three families and shop the shoes in their look at Naturalizer.com.

Naturalizer shoes, handbags and accessories are available at Naturalizer stores, Naturalizer.com and select retail partners. Follow Naturalizer on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and its In Your Shoes blog to see new collection additions, special offers and style tips.

In 1927, Naturalizer had the revolutionary idea of creating stylish and comfortable shoes made just for women. The brand became known as “the shoe with the beautiful fit.” And because of this commitment, Naturalizer shoes feature their exclusive N5 comfort system – five essential features that are proven to provide all day comfort: extra cushioning, breathable linings, balance with every step, flexible soles and lightweight material. Naturalizer is still one of the few brands in the marketplace that women can turn to for hard-to-find sizes and widths, and wide shaft boots, because we believe that shoes can only be comfortable when they are a perfect fit. Today, Naturalizer is inspiring women to live their lives and love their shoes in 60 countries around the world.

‘Photo Ark’ Exhibition to Open Nov. 5 at National Geographic Museum in Washington, D.C.

Multimedia Exhibition Showcases Photographer Joel Sartore’s Project Documenting World’s Animal Species

“Photo Ark” is a multiyear National Geographic project with a simple goal — to create portraits of the world’s species before they disappear and to inspire people everywhere to care. National Geographic will showcase this important project through multiple platforms, including an exhibition that opens at the National Geographic Museum in Washington on Thursday, Nov. 5. Featuring the work of photographer, speaker, author, teacher and National Geographic Society Fellow Joel Sartore, the exhibition will be on display in the museum until April 2016.

The “Photo Ark” exhibition will highlight nearly all of the more than 5,000 images that comprise Sartore’s decade-long Photo Ark collection to date. Incredibly, that number doesn’t quite mark the project’s halfway point — Sartore estimates the completed Photo Ark will include portraits of over 12,000 species representing several different animal classes, including birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. In what will be the largest single archive of studio-quality photographs of biodiversity ever, Photo Ark continues to move toward its goal of documenting these 12,000 species in captivity, thanks in part to Sartore’s enduring relationships with many of the world’s zoos and aquariums — institutions dedicated to preserving and caring for species of all kinds.

“Photo Ark” exhibition visitors will also get a behind-the-scenes look at Sartore’s methodical process for shooting these stunning photos, oftentimes with comedic mishaps that go along with working with his occasionally temperamental “models.” Video and still portraits throughout the exhibition will capture the essence of these animals, while a cacophony of animal sounds will further bring these precious creatures to life right in downtown Washington. In addition to gripping imagery, the exhibit includes compelling stories about the dedicated people and organizations working to help these animals in an aptly named “Hall of Heroes.” Visitors will also walk through a heartbreaking gallery dedicated to some of the world’s most critically endangered and even extinct species.

Hands-on, interactive elements include video screens, a field station and photo tents that give guests the sense that they are on a shoot with Sartore. Visitors will also learn how they can help support the continuing work of the Photo Ark project as well as the National Geographic Society’s ongoing conservation efforts.

“Photo Ark will inspire millions around the world with the message that it is not too late to save some of the world’s most endangered species,” said National Geographic’s vice president of exhibitions, Kathryn Keane. “That is the power of photography — and the perfect way that National Geographic can contribute to this global challenge.”

Winter Travel 2015: Langara, The Penthouse at Sandy Cove Barbados Joins the Blue Sky Luxury Caribbean Villa Portfolio

Blue Sky Luxury has added LANGARA, THE PENTHOUSE AT SANDY COVE BARBADOS to their select Flagship Caribbean villa portfolio. The holiday home rental experts at Blue Sky Luxury now represent over 250 of the finest properties in Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Barts, St. Martin/St. Maarten and Saint Lucia.

Blue Sky Luxury represents over 250 of the finest properties in Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Barts, St. MartinSt. Maarten and Saint Lucia

Four-bedrooms with an exclusive address on the Platinum Coast, the Penthouse boasts a private pool with a stunning view, a staff of four including a butler and private chef, “smart home” technology and a private yacht, the ultimate in an attainable luxury vacation.

“Langara, the Penthouse adds a new dimension to our Barbados portfolio,” said Kathy-Dawn Burke, Leader-Holiday Home Rentals at Blue Sky Luxury. “This beautiful residence offers an abundance of ultra-modern features effortlessly melded with every luxury. The location is the perfect hub for that Bajan vacation experience from paddle-boarding and fishing to sampling a bounty of local ingredients prepared when, where and how they like it by a private chef.”

Langara Penthouse Terrace, Blue Sky Luxury: Langara’s 6,500 square feet of elegantly appointed indoor spaces open seamlessly to the furnished terraces with views of the Caribbean and the Platinum Coast of Barbados.

LANGARA PENTHOUSE PATIO OFF MASTER BED

A unique vacation option with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, the four-bedroom, four-and-a-half bath Langara spans the top floor of the exclusive Sandy Cove residential development on Barbados’ Platinum Coast. The 6,500 square feet of indoor spaces marry modern design with tropical ambiance, opening seamlessly to terraces furnished for al fresco dining, lounging and swimming in the Penthouse private pool.

Beachfront living at its finest, guests can discover hidden beaches aboard the home’s private yacht, explore the white-sand beach cove and vibrant reef with snorkels and SUP boards, or explore Barbados with a private car and driver. The Langara luxury experience also includes elevator access to the Sandy Cove facilities including a lagoon pool, gym and sauna.

Langara Penthouse Master Suite Terrace, Blue Sky Luxury: Langara’s Master Suite Terrace is a scenic hideaway perfect for private dining and sunbathing.

Langara Penthouse Master Suite and Terrace, Blue Sky Luxury: A unique Barbados vacation option, the four bedroom Langara spans the top floor of the exclusive Sandy Cove residential development on the Platinum Coast of Barbados.

Crystal chandeliers light the master suite which opens to a terrace, sundeck and extravagant en-suite bath with marble rain showers and free-standing tub while the three guest bedrooms, one with a private terrace, feature their own marble en-suite bathrooms. Rooms are all Wi-Fi accessible and feature LED Smart TVs with cable, Apple TV, Blu-ray players and movies and stereo. A “smart home,” Langara is also outfitted with state-of-the-art technology controlling the entertainment centers, lighting, air-conditioning and security features.

Langara Penthouse Pool, Blue Sky Luxury: The Penthouse features a private pool and guests can also opt for a closer look at the Platinum Coast of Barbados on the Langara yacht.

Langara Penthouse, Blue Sky Luxury: A unique Barbados vacation option, the four bedroom Langara spans the top floor of the exclusive Sandy Cove residential development on the Platinum Coast of Barbados.

A staff of four sees to every detail for Langara’s guests including a butler and private chef preparing meals that rival nearby five-star restaurants. In addition to the attention of Langara’s staff, the Blue Sky Luxury Concierge Can Team provides personalized guest services that begin before vacationers ever leave home from arranging tours and personalized experiences to advising the chef on menu favorites and dietary requirements.

Rates for Langara start at US$2,500.00 per night for a minimum 5-night stay and bookings also include a Blue Sky Luxury exclusive offer of miles for the Virgin Atlantic Airways Flying Club or American Airlines AAdvantage loyalty programs. Guests also have the option of Blue Sky Luxury’s exclusive VIP Meet and Greet service including a fast-track through the airport on arrival and transfer to the Penthouse.

Blue Sky Luxury’s portfolio of over 250 Caribbean premiere villa properties includes over 100 of the finest holiday homes in Barbados and another 150 best-in-class vacation homes in Antigua, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Barts, Saint Lucia and St. Martin/St. Maarten ranging from luxurious oceanfront villas to charming and relaxed beachfront apartments. The Blue Sky Luxury “Concierge Can” experts provide personalized service and customized vacations guaranteeing the ultimate luxury vacation experience.

For more information call Blue Sky Luxury at 1-246-622-4466, email experts@blueskyluxury.com and online at BlueSkyLuxury.com, @BlueSkyLuxury and facebook.com/BlueSkyLuxury.