One-of-a-kind Baume & Mercier Capeland Shelby® Cobra Up For Auction At Antiquorum December 9, 2015

In March 2015, Baume & Mercier announced its partnership with Carroll Shelby International Inc. to create two exclusive, limited edition watches born from the DNA of Shelby’s most revered creations. Following the success of this launch, Baume & Mercier announces a second installment in its collaboration: A one-of-a-kind Capeland Shelby® Cobra timepiece that will be auctioned at Antiquorum in New York City on December 9, 2015, with all proceeds going to the Carroll Shelby Foundation. Bids may be placed online, over the phone or in person.

Baume & Mercier logo. (PRNewsFoto/Baume & Mercier)

“We are very proud to partner with the Carroll Shelby Foundation. Our agreement is nurtured by a similar philosophy. The elegance of the lines, the attention to high quality, and commitment to humanism are some of our common characteristics,” stated Alain Zimmermann, CEO of Baume & Mercier.

One-of-a-kind Capeland Shelby® Cobra 18K red gold Flyback Chronograph
In keeping with the design of the two Baume & Mercier Capeland Shelby® Cobra chronographs released earlier this year, Baume & Mercier has designed a truly unique version of this watch inspired by the graphic identity codes of the Shelby Cobra racecar. This precious and sporty one-off chronograph is distinguished by the extreme subtlety of its Haute Horlogerie finishes: an off-white dial with sky blue stripes picking up those on racing cars, blue accents on the dial and hands, a 44 mm polished/satin-finished 18K red gold case, a finely grained black calfskin strap with round-scale blue alligator lining and gray stitching, and an 18K red gold pin buckle. The inscription “Shelby Cobra 1965-2015, Unique Piece” is engraved on the case back, framing a sapphire crystal bearing Carroll Shelby’s signature.

A one-of-a-kind Capeland Shelby® Cobra timepiece that will be auctioned at Antiquorum in New York City on December 9, 2015, with all proceeds going to the Carroll Shelby Foundation.

A one-of-a-kind Capeland Shelby® Cobra timepiece that will be auctioned at Antiquorum in New York City on December 9, 2015, with all proceeds going to the Carroll Shelby Foundation.

In keeping with tradition and with the high-precision reputation of Baume & Mercier watches, this flyback chronograph is driven by a Swiss-made mechanical self-winding movement from the Manufacture La Joux-Perret. The exclusive presentation box will also house an additional black leather alligator strap with round-scale blue alligator lining and gray stitching.

Proceeds from the auction will go to the Carroll Shelby Foundation, an organization that raises funds to help families and children affected by heart diseases. It also provides schooling and education for underprivileged young people in the US.

“Shelby and Baume & Mercier have earned an international reputation for quality, precision and craftsmanship,” said Neil Cummings, CEO of Carroll Shelby Licensing and co-CEO of Carroll Shelby International. “Our shared pursuit of perfection has made both companies legendary. We’re honored that Baume & Mercier has created a one-of-a kind watch to benefit the Shelby Automotive Museum, which was designed to inspire a new generation of enthusiasts worldwide.“

“It is a pleasure for Antiquorum to offer Baume & Mercier’s unique Capeland Shelby® Cobra Flyback Chronograph commemorating Carroll Shelby‘s most celebrated automotive creation, the legendary Shelby Cobra in our December auction,” said Evan Zimmermann, President & CEO of Antiquorum. “We are honored to support the Carroll Shelby Foundation and help raise funds to assist families of children with major heart ailments.”

Baume & Mercier will produce only one exemplar of this significant collector’s piece. The highest bidder in the auction will also receive an exclusive VIP package experience, valued at $10,000. It includes a visit to the Shelby World Headquarters in Las Vegas, an original illustration of the Cobra signed by the Cobra driving legends, a Cobra driving experience, two custom-made racing suits, a VIP factory tour, a personal item of Carroll Shelby and a photo opportunity aboard an historical Cobra CXS2000.

For more information or to register for the auction, visit www.antiquorum.com. To view the Baume & Mercier Capeland Shelby® Cobra Collection as well as current styles, please visit www.baume-et-mercier.com.

Holiday 2015: Gifts for Every Crafter in the 2015 Digital Holiday Catalog from ConsumerCrafts

Crafters Can Start Their Holiday Shopping Earlier This Year. The Launch Of The ConsumerCrafts Digital Holiday Catalog Comes With An Exclusive Coupon Code To Save On Supplies And Gifts.

Crafting in America has increased in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to a renewed interest in both DIY projects and handmade crafts. The growth of Pinterest, Etsy and a multitude of craft blogs has also offered crafters of all skill levels the opportunity to explore new interests.

Gifts for Every Crafter in the 2015 Digital Holiday Catalog from ConsumerCrafts (PRNewsFoto/ConsumerCrafts)

ConsumerCrafts is ready to kick off the 2015 holiday season by releasing its annual holiday lookbook. The digital gift catalog features hundreds of brand new products and gift ideas at every price point. Plus, there’s an exclusive promo code to use on a purchase. Last year was the first time the company sent out an entirely digital holiday catalog and customers responded positively to the easy-to-shop layout. The lookbook is designed to be compatible with tablets and smartphones for shopping on the go.

This year’s holiday gift catalog makes shopping interactive. Since ConsumerCrafts is a fully online craft retailer, every featured product is linked back to https://www.consumercrafts.com/. Plus, there are links to project ideas, videos and craft tutorials.

“As an online craft supplies retailer, our customers are used to interacting with us digitally,” said Brian Pacetti, Director of Operations for ConsumerCrafts. “We want to make it easier for our customers to shop, learn about new products and find holiday projects, all in one easy-to-use format.“

Customers will love the selection of brand new craft products featured in the 2015 Holiday Craft Catalog. The Cleveland Vintage Lighting collection features Edison style bulbs, coordinating lampshades and accessories. The Heidi Swapp™ Minc Machine, the Silhouette® Mint and the iLoom™ Bracelet Loom are ideal for both teens and adults. The catalog also features a brand new collection of Darice® embossing folders and some of the season’s other latest trends including adult coloring books.

Loyal customers will also benefit from the digital version of the catalog by enjoying an exclusive coupon code they can use during the 2015 holiday season.

ConsumerCrafts is an online-only craft supplies retailer that offers everything craft related at competitive price points. Established in 2007, ConsumerCrafts is a privately owned company based out of Wilmington, DE. www.ConsumerCrafts.com offers more than 13,000 products in home decor, basic craft supplies, yarn, jewelry making supplies, kids’ crafts, baking and candy making supplies, scrapbooking supplies, and more.

Crystal Cruises Recognized As Best Cruise Line By Conde Nast Traveler Readers

Crystal Named No. 1 Midsized Cruise Ship Line for 22nd year in a row

For a record 22^nd consecutive year, Crystal Cruises has been named the No. 1 “Midsize Cruise Ship Line” in Conde Nast Traveler magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards. The world’s most awarded luxury cruise line earned a final score of 90.456, which was the highest of all small and midsize cruise lines. Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry, commonly known as “the best of the best of travel.”

Crystal’s Six Star Service (PRNewsFoto/Crystal Cruises)

The 2015 Readers’ Choice Awards will appear in the November issue of Conde Nast Traveler, available October 28 on newsstands nationwide. The full list is published exclusively online, at www.CNTraveler.com/rca.

“We are extremely grateful and honored to once again be named the No. 1 Midsize Cruise Ship Line by the sophisticated readers of Conde Nast Traveler,” said Edie Rodriguez, president and CEO, Crystal Cruises. “This recognition validates the commitment and passion for service our team at sea and on land demonstrate, particularly as it is awarded by a distinguished group who are incredibly savvy about global luxury travel. We look forward to providing them with the same six-star service and luxurious experiences in the next chapter of Crystal experiences in yachting, river, air and ocean.”

Crystal Serenity in Sorrento, Italy

Crystal continues to enhance its overall guest experience to ensure the highest level of satisfaction that the line is lauded for during the last 25 years. In 2015, Crystal introduced new features on board Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity – themselves frequent recipients of the lauded travel magazine’s “Best” awards – including free Wi-Fi to all guests for 60 minutes per day, new spa services including Medi-Spa, upgrades to the in-room amenities to the well-known ETRO luxury brand, and the introduction of new ports into the line’s versatile and immersive itineraries.

Crystal Serenity Stateroom with Balcony

In continuing to provide guests with the best luxury experiences, Crystal announced plans to expand beyond its two ships within the next three years with the introduction of Crystal Yacht Cruises, Crystal River Cruises, Crystal Luxury Air, and the Crystal Exclusive Class ocean vessels which will feature Crystal Residences.

The Glenlivet® Presents Its First Peated Expression in Over a Century

Joining its Award Winning Nadurra® Range: The Glenlivet® Nadurra® Peated Whisky Cask Finish

The Third Expression in The Glenlivet Nadurra Portfolio Comes to the US Market

The Glenlivet reveals its latest innovation and first peated flavor in over one hundred years: The Glenlivet Nàdurra Peated Whisky Cask Finish. As with the recent release of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, the iconic Speyside distillery continues to bring new flavor experiences to whisky enthusiasts, while honoring its legacy of distilling high quality Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

To inspire this latest release, The Glenlivet looked to its past. In the early 1800s, The Glenlivet distillers used peat smoke to dry the malted barley and The Glenlivet whisky would have had a rich, smoky

The Glenlivet Nàdurra Peated Whisky Cask Finish

flavor. Reinterpreting this historic tradition, while bringing an original twist to the flavors of the range, this new expression is matured in casks which have previously held heavily peated Scotch Whisky to bring forth a subtle, aromatic smoky flavor.

This new release embraces the craft of whisky making in the same way as its predecessors, The Glenlivet Nàdurra Oloroso Matured and The Glenlivet Nàdurra First Fill Selection. Each bottle of The Glenlivet Nàdurra Peated Whisky Cask Finish is bottled and released in small batches with no chill-filtration to offer the complex, full bodied texture of a whisky that has just been drawn from the cask.

“The Glenlivet Peated Whisky Cask Finish is a really exciting addition to The Glenlivet range. It’s inspired by our historic traditions of distilling high quality whisky and yet is a contemporary innovation providing an unparalleled flavor experience, as enjoying Nàdurra is like drinking straight from the cask at the distillery,” said Laurent Cutier, Director of Scotch Portfolio at Pernod Ricard USA. “We continue our proud heritage of setting standards within the Single Malt category and with this new addition bring new depth of flavor to our drinkers.”

The Glenlivet Nàdurra Peated Whisky Cask Finish has an elegant, aromatic smokiness complemented by rich, spicy fruits thanks to its finish in American oak casks that previously held heavily-peated Scotch Whisky. The delicate smokiness is perfectly juxtaposed with the classic smooth, fruity house style for which The Glenlivet Single Malt has been famous since 1824.

The Glenlivet Nàdurra Peated Whisky Cask Finish will be available in CA, DC, FL, GA, IL, MA, MI, NY, TX, WA markets at a suggested retail price of $84.99. For additional information please visit www.TheGlenlivetCask.com.

THE GLENLIVET® NÀDURRA® Peated Whisky Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky. 53% Alc./Vol.-62% Alc./Vol. (106 Proof to 124 Proof).

Beauty.com Debuts the Ryan Roche Nudie Beauty Bag

Beauty.com®, a division of drugstore.com, inc., is excited to introduce the exclusive Nudie Beauty Bag from lauded designer Ryan Roche as a complimentary gift this fall. Beginning October 20th, customers will receive the product-filled nude pouch when they spend $125 or more at Beauty.com®, a prestige beauty retailer.* The Ryan Roche Nudie Beauty Bag can be found at www.Beauty.com/RyanRoche and is available while supplies last.

Beauty.com, Inc., inc. is a leading online destination for prestige beauty products. The web store provides a highly personalized shopping experience and offers more than 350 brands from widely recognized to niche, hard-to-find products.

With fall in full swing, the sleek Ryan Roche Nudie Beauty Bag is perfect for toting beauty essentials while keeping it classy for those cooler autumn evenings. “It was so lovely to collaborate with Beauty.com on a beauty bag,” says designer Ryan Roche. “The bag is a pared back simple half circle shape in my favorite shade of nude pink with a cool fringe zip tassel. It reminds me of a makeup bag my mom had when I was a child that I always loved. I am so often inspired by the colors found in make up so this was a super fun project to work on, it came very naturally for me!” The half circle style bag makes it compact and easy for shoppers to store items of different sizes from makeup brushes and tools to cosmetics and skin care on the go while the nude pink design makes this a great makeup bag accessory for any outfit.

The Ryan Roche Nudie Beauty Bag – includes 14 prestige beauty samples in both deluxe and full sizes. The pouch and its contents have an approximate combined retail value of $152. The contents include offerings from some of the beauty world’s top beauty and skin care brands:

1. L’Occitane Divine Cream (.27oz)
2. Caudalie Hand & Nail Cream (.5floz)
3. CLEAN Fragrance, White Woods VOCs (.34oz)
4. BareMinerals 5-in-1 BB Advanced Performance Cream Eyeshadow, Barely Nude (1ml)
5. Macadamia Nourishing Moisture Oil Treatment (.34oz)
6. Paula’s Choice Hyaluronic Acid Booster(.67oz)
7. ClariSEA Rapid Detox Charcoal Exfoliant (1oz)
8. Cane & Austin Miracle Pad 20% Glycolic (1)
9. Jurlique PAD Firming Face Oil 10ml OR PAD Firming & Tightening (15ml)
10. Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream to Brighten and Depuff (5ml)
11. Londontown Nail File (1)
12. Nuxe Minis Crème Fraiche Normal Skin Moisturizer (1.5oz)
13. de-luxe Shea Butter 100% Pure (3.5oz)
14. Jack Black Supreme Cream Shave Lather (.5oz)
15. Beauty.com $10 offer card

While looking to achieve the $125 or more hurdle to receive the Nudie Beauty Bag, customers can shop an assortment of new-to-store skin care brands including Patchology, Christie Brinkley Authentic Skincare, and LATHER. For new rich scents, shoppers will find offerings from Paris Hilton, Jay Z, and Tommy Bahama. With temperatures cooling down, Beauty.com also has several products customers need to combat winter skin like SKIN&CO Roma Citrus Amora Facial Oil, Marula Pure Beauty Oil Pure Marula Facial Lotion and NUXE Huile Prodigieuse Oil.

For exclusive seasonal beauty content, beauty fans will find fall make-up and hair tutorials on the Beauty.com Advice & Trends page. Viewers can watch Beauty Director-at-Large Romy Soleimani demonstrate how to get the most on-trend make-up looks for fall in the Beauty.com Video Library. On the Beauty Close Up, Romy continues to share her favorite product picks for the season. Other Beauty.com fall features include nail art tutorials, Skin Care Advice and the New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2015 Runway Recap loaded with product suggestions, gorgeous photos, and live backstage videos.

Beauty fans can continue to look to the Beauty.com social media channels Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest to find featured products spanning makeup, skin-care, hair care and fragrance. Other benefits include “Everyday Complimentary Shipping,”** 5% back on every purchase with drugstore.com dollars™**, speedy shipping, the complimentary sampling center, 100% satisfaction guarantee***, and a shared online shopping cart with the Beauty.com partner site, http://www.drugstore.com. Beauty fans can also get the latest tips, trends, and promotions sent directly to their email by signing up for the complimentary weekly Beauty Bulletin on the Beauty.com site.

*While supplies last. This Nudie Beauty Bag from Ryan Roche is available at www.Beauty.com with any purchase totaling $125or more. Offer may be applied only once per household. May not combine with anyother offers. Complimentary gift has an approximate value of $152. Complimentary gifts cannot be returned for refund, credit, or exchange. The complimentary gift will be added to your shopping bag when you reach the minimum purchase threshold of $125. Gift cards/certificates, backordered items, out of stock items, and items marked “This item requires special handling” are not eligible for this offer. A minimum purchase does not include shipping charges applicable tax, backordered items, out of stock items, or specially handled products. Void where prohibited by law. Beauty.com may make changes to or terminate this offer at any time. Use of this site shall be deemed as your acceptance of Beauty.com’s Terms of Use.

**Complimentary standard shipping is available only on purchases of $35 or more, and does not apply to gift cards/certificates, bulk orders, or orders over 20 pounds. With drugstore.com dollars™, customers receive a credit to their account equal to 5% of any eligible purchase. Customers cannot earn or apply drugstore.com dollars™ to gift certificates, gift cards, discounts, complimentary items, past purchase, or non-shipped, undeliverable or returned items. drugstore.com dollars™ cannot be redeemed for cash. These offers are only available on the http://www.drugstore.com and http://www.Beauty.com web sites. These offers are not available on partner sites such as Walgreens.com and VisionDirect.com.

***All Beauty.com purchases are backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied with an item you have purchased from Beauty.com, you may return it within 30 days of the date it was delivered and receive a refund or in-store credit. Certain items, such as jewelry, purses, and intimate apparel, can only be returned for refund or credit if unworn, are in original packaging and have any original tags still attached.

Adele Album “25” Released Globally November 20th

Debut Single “HELLO” Available October 23rd

“HELLO” Video Revealed October 23rd

Adele is set to release “25,” her highly anticipated new album, which will be available globally on Friday, November 20th and is the first new music from her since her Oscar winning single ‘Skyfall‘ in 2012.

Adele Album “25” Released Globally November 20th (PRNewsFoto/XL Recordings / Columbia Records)

“My last record was a break up record and if I had to label this one I would call it a make up record. I’m making up with myself. making up for lost time. making up for everything I ever did and never did.”

“Hello,” the debut single from “25,” will be available to buy and stream on Friday, October 23rd. The cinematic video for “Hello” will also be revealed on Friday, October 23rd. It was shot in the countryside surrounding Montreal and is directed by the celebrated young Canadian director Xavier Dolan (Mommy, Tom at the Farm).

TRACKLIST

1. Hello

2. Send My Love (To Your New Lover)

3. I Miss You

4. When We Were Young

5. Remedy

6. Water Under The Bridge

7. River Lea

8. Love In The Dark

9. Million Years Ago

10. All I Ask

11. Sweetest Devotion

Healthy ‘Aging with HIV’ Strategies Focus of Federal Grant to Pitt Public Health

As the U.S. reaches an important milestone this year in the fight against HIV (35 years and counting….) with more than half the people living with the virus older than age 50, the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health is launching a study to determine ways to promote health among aging gay and bisexual men, who make up about two-thirds of the people aging with HIV.

In an effort to create strategies for use in public health outreach nationwide, the research team will be taking an innovative approach to the study by looking for protective factors – called “resiliencies” – that are helping keep some men with HIV healthy and could be extended to other men, rather than simply fixing health problems as they arise. This research is funded with a three-year, $2.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This research is funded by NIH grant R01 MD010680.

“We celebrate that medications now exist to enable people with HIV to live well into old age,” said study principal investigator Ron Stall, Ph.D., M.P.H., director of the Center for LGBT Health Research at Pitt Public Health. “But we also need to recognize that the health complications that come with aging – both mental and physical – are compounded when you’re living with HIV. It is critical that we develop research-based programs to support HIV-positive people as they age.”

The project will regularly survey 1,850 HIV-positive and -negative men participating in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS), an ongoing research study that has enrolled thousands of men in Baltimore, Chicago, Pittsburgh and Los Angeles over the past 30 years to participate in research on HIV/AIDS. The Pittsburgh arm of the study is the Pitt Men’s Study.

The study aims to tease out why some gay and bisexual men remain healthy well into later life, even with multiple risk factors for conditions such as depression and substance abuse. The research team will then determine strategies that could help all gay and bisexual men adopt resiliencies – whether it’s strong friendships, positive family ties, good coping skills or something else – that will give them a better shot at healthy aging, particularly when living with HIV.

The research team also will look at whether changing rates of resiliencies over time are associated with changes in substance use and other psychosocial health problems, as well as HIV-related health outcomes and medication adherence.

“Aging can be hard even when you have very few health risks,” said Dr. Stall. “A gay man who came of age in a much less accepting era and is positive for HIV has the odds stacked against him. He’s at greater risk for depression and substance abuse; he might not have prepared for retirement because he didn’t expect to live to reach it; and he may eventually need long-term care because he’s at greater risk for complications from diabetes and heart disease. And yet there are men facing all these risks who are defying the odds and leading healthy, happy lives. We could – and should – all learn from them.”

Additional core investigators on this project include Michael Plankey, Ph.D., of Georgetown University; and James Egan, Ph.D., Mack Friedman, Ph.D., and Dan Siconofli, Ph.D., all of Pitt Public Health.

The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, founded in 1948 and now one of the top-ranked schools of public health in the United States, conducts research on public health and medical care that improves the lives of millions of people around the world. Pitt Public Health is a leader in devising new methods to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases, HIV/AIDS, cancer and other important public health problems. For more information about Pitt Public Health, visit the school’s Web site at http://www.publichealth.pitt.edu.

“AWWWESOME!” – Toys”R”Us® Introduces 2015 Holiday Marketing Campaign

Dual Approach Features Clever TV Spots That Capture What Really Goes on When the Toy Store is Closed, While Ads that Tug at the Heartstrings Showcase the True Spirit of the Season of Giving

This week, Toys”R”Us® will begin to roll out its 2015 holiday marketing campaign with a fully-integrated program that encompasses television, digital and print advertising. At the center of the campaign is the notion of “AWWWESOME,” which is used to punctuate the company’s value offerings, competitive advantages and emotional connection with its customers. Key holiday messages are conveyed through a series of clever advertisements that reveal what goes on in toyland after store closing, while a number of poignant spots capture the spirit of the season and intimacy of special moments with loved ones.

Toys”R”Us® Introduces 2015 Holiday Marketing Campaign

“AWWWESOME is central to this year’s campaign because it speaks not only to our breadth of selection and expertise, but it is exactly what kids see when they walk wide-eyed into a Toys”R”Us store,” said Rich Lennox, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer, Toys”R”Us, U.S. “As consumers begin to make decisions on where to shop this holiday season, we wanted to clearly convey the unique value proposition we are offering through strong promotional messages – but ones that are delivered in a fun and engaging way. And, as a brand that is truly synonymous with the holidays, we wanted to take pause and reflect on those special moments that are at the heart of what Christmas is all about.“

Witty “Shelf-Talker” Spots Put Toys On Center Stage

Barbie & Ken Chair

To illustrate the company’s breadth of products and unique services, Toys”R”Us is imagining what happens in toyland when no one is looking through a series of more than a dozen “Shelf Talker” spots. The 15- and 30-second ads, which will begin to air this week, reveal a whole new world where hijinks and drama ensue among the varied personalities of toys found in the store. One demonstrates the company’s vast selection of toys as everyone’s favorite power couple, Ken® and Barbie®, lost, drive through the store aisles in their pink convertible. Ken is in the driver’s seat – and, in that all-too-true scenario – he is convinced they are headed in the right direction and refuses to ask for help in finding their destination. In a second spot, which reinforces the company’s Price Match Guarantee, Optimus Prime learns a tough lesson as a baby doll inadvertently lets it slip that he is but one of many tough Transformers® on the shelf, sending him into hysterics. New “Shelf Talker” spots will be introduced throughout the holiday season featuring popular toys while delivering customer benefits, such as current deals and services available at Toys”R”Us.

Capturing the True Spirit and Heart of the Season

In a series of beautifully filmed 30- and 60-second spots, Toys”R”Us seeks to place a spotlight on those moments of giving, surprise and wonder that make Christmas so special.

In a series of beautifully filmed 30- and 60-second spots, Toys”R”Us seeks to place a spotlight on those moments of giving, surprise and wonder that make Christmas so special. The first ad, which will begin airing on November 1, unfolds as a young child notices her elderly neighbor has the only house on the block left undecorated for the holiday season. The girl decides to make this gentleman’s holiday merrier by enlisting the help of a friend to trim a large tree in his front yard. Her efforts appear to go unappreciated, and she is crestfallen. On Christmas morning, however, the little girl awakens to find a note at her front door and is amazed to discover that her neighbor has left mountains of gifts under the tree. As she and her friends run to unwrap the presents, the little girl notices the gentleman peering out his window, and they smile at each other knowing each has been given the best possible gift of the season.

Additional ads, which demonstrate the spirit of Christmas, will be unveiled throughout the holiday season. They will air on TV and be featured in cinemas across the country.

Created in partnership with BBDO Worldwide, an international, award-winning creative agency, the spots will air on all major networks and cable stations, including ABC, CBS, CW, FOX and NBC, as well as ABC Family, Animal Planet, A&E, BET, Bravo, Discovery Family, E!, Food Network, Hallmark, HGTV, Lifetime, OWN, Oxygen, TBS, TLC and TNT, among others. Top national morning and syndicated talk shows, including TODAY, Live with Kelly & Michael, ELLEN, Rachael Ray, The Dr. Oz Show, The Fab Life and Steve Harvey, will air the commercials throughout the holidays.

Extending the Campaign with Unique Digital Content

To extend the reach of the “AWWWESOME” campaign, Toys”R”Us will feature brand new, exclusive content on the company’s social media channels including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube. Continuing all season long, Toys”R”Us will have an exciting playlist on YouTube, combining the wit of “Shelf Talkers” with the concept of the immensely popular unboxing videos. Fans can watch as their favorite playthings release each other from their packaging, while showcasing the unique features and personalities of these toys. Kids and kids at heart can also check out www.YouTube.com/ToysRUs for fun, time-lapse videos and behind-the-scenes content of the campaign, as well as to replay the magical moments of the commercials.

Additionally, now through mid-December, Toys”R”Us promotional activity will be seen across the Web. The strategy includes premier placements on high-impact homepages, including YouTube and Hulu.com, among others. And, as a digital extension of the retailer’s broadcast promotions, www.ABC.com, www.CBS.com, www.FOX.com and www.NBC.com will feature Toys”R”Us ads online as part of a larger partnership with the networks.

Citizen Watch Company of America: Time, Space and Innovation

Company Celebrates Launch of Two New Timepieces

On Tuesday evening, October 20th, Citizen Watch Company of America celebrated the launch of a new technologically advanced satellite timepiece: the Satellite Wave-World Time GPS. Alongside its companion, the Satellite Wave F900, the Satellite Wave-World Time GPS features the fastest GPS sync time to date, with worldwide reception.

In 2011, Citizen was the first watch brand to create a light powered satellite timekeeping watch, the Eco-Drive Satellite Wave, with capabilities of syncing to satellites in space to display accurate time anywhere in the world. Since then, the brand has focused on developing a better Eco-Drive Satellite Wave model. In 2013, Citizen introduced the Satellite Wave Air, with a three-layered dial inspired by jet engines and the first light powered satellite timekeeping watch in a full metal case. In 2014, Citizen launched the thinnest and fastest satellite watch, the Satellite Wave F100. The launch of the Satellite Wave F900 and World Time GPS in 2015 takes this technology and innovation to a new level, for not only CITIZEN, but the entire watch industry Once again, the brand continues to build on the “Better Starts Now” brand statement with inspiring new offerings.

Satellite Wave World Time GPS Timepiece

A truly technologically advanced satellite timepiece, the Satellite Wave-World Time GPS model includes worldwide reception, with a 3-second reception time, in 27 cities (40 time zones). One of the most significant advantages of the Satellite Wave-World Time GPS is once fully charged it will stay powered for up to 2 years. “The driving goal at Citizen is always to do things better and to make technology more accessible to everyone,” said Jeffrey Cohen, President of Citizen Watch Company of America. “This new timepiece will bring satellite technology to a broader market of watch enthusiasts.”

Citizen Eco-Drive Satellite Wave F900

To celebrate the launch of these remarkable timepieces, Citizen this evening hosted a historic “Time, Space and Innovation” event in their Flagship store located in the heart of Times Square, NYC.

Event highlights included:

Brian Greene is a professor at Columbia University, and the Cofounder and Chairman of the World Science Festival joined us to speak about “Time and Einstein”. (PRNewsFoto/Citizen Watch Company of America)

Brian Greene kept the audience rapt with his perspective on “Time and Einstein.” He is a professor of physics and mathematics at Columbia University, and is recognized for a number of groundbreaking discoveries in his field of superstring theory. His books, The Elegant Universe, The Fabric of the Cosmos and The Hidden Reality, have collectively spent 65 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list; and were the basis of two award-winning NOVA mini-series, which he hosted. Professor Greene co-founded the World Science Festival in 2008 and serves as Chairman of the Board.

Oded Aharonson joins us from the Weizmann Institute of Science along with New Jersey Center for Teaching and Learning to honor “Science Star of the Future” Michelle Baird. Michelle is a senior at Bergen County Technical School. Oded also gave us an up-to-the minute perspective on telling time in space. (PRNewsFoto/Citizen Watch Company of America)

Oded Aharonson, Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel, provided an illuminating up-to-the-minute perspective on telling time in space. Professor Aharonson has served as an investigator in many NASA flight missions including the Mars Exploration Rovers and the Cassini Mission to Saturn.

Images by award winning photographer, writer, curator and filmmaker Michael Benson. We are honored to be able to premiere his latest photo before it is shipped off to appear in the Great Hall of the London Museum of Natural History in December. (PRNewsFoto/Citizen Watch Company of America)

Michelin Stars Light Up Bay Area in 10th Edition of Famed Restaurant Guide

Manresa Earns Three Stars, Commis And Campton Place Move Up To Two Stars

Michelin today announced its highly regarded star selections for the 10th edition of the MICHELIN Guide San Francisco Bay Area & Wine Country.

In the latest and 10th anniversary edition of the storied restaurant Guide, another restaurant joins the elite group of three-star designations; two restaurants move up to two stars; and 15 new restaurants earn one star.

Michelin Stars Light up San Francisco and Bay Area in 10th Edition of Famed Restaurant Guide (PRNewsFoto/Michelin)

At the top, Manresa becomes the first three-starred restaurant in East Bay where Chef David Kinch is a master of farm-driven seasonal cooking. Manresa joins fellow three stars The French Laundry and The Restaurant at Meadowood, which have held the honor perennially. Additionally, Benu and Saison retain their distinction of three stars, having earned them in the previous year’s guide. Worldwide, only about 100 restaurants hold three stars.

In the two-star category, seven restaurants across the region offer “excellent cuisine, worth a detour.” Moving up in the ranks are Campton Place and Commis. At Campton Place, Chef Srijith Gopinathan is serving a menu that highlights the Indian and South Asian flavors of his heritage. Chef James Syhabout’s contemporary establishment, Commis, is the first two-star restaurant in the East Bay and continues to impress Michelin inspectors with his flavors and technique.

With more one stars than ever, 38 Bay area restaurants offer diverse yet quality cuisine. Standouts include new hotspots from distinguished Michelin chefs: Chef Mourad Lahlou’s eponymous Mourad joins Aziza in offering delicious Moroccan cuisine worthy of a star and Chef Melissa Perello (Frances) is impressing diners with bold and fun flavors at her new spot, Octavia. Also new and noteworthy is The Lazy Bear, a popular former pop-up, and Kin Khao, a Thai Bib Gourmand that is being promoted to one star. The list also welcomes newly located All-Spice, as well as Al’s Place, Aster, Californios, Commonwealth, Lord Stanley, Nico, Omakase, Rasa, Sushi Yoshizumi and Wako.

“The number of new restaurants in all categories, including Bib Gourmands, demonstrates the growth and fortitude of the level of cuisine found on the West Coast,” says Michael Ellis, international director of the MICHELIN Guide. “Over the last 10 years, our inspectors continue to be more impressed with the level of cooking that can be found across the entire region.”

The MICHELIN Guide San Francisco Bay Area & Wine Country 2016 goes on sale Wednesday, Oct. 27, for $18.99. A total of 505 restaurants representing 53 different cuisines are listed.

San Francisco MICHELIN Guide 2016 Starred Establishments

Three Stars

Exceptional Cuisine, Worth A Special Journey

Restaurant	Area	District	City	Chef
Benu	San Francisco	SoMa		Corey Lee
French Laundry (The)	Wine Country	Napa Valley	Yountville	Thomas Keller
Manresa	South Bay		Los Gatos	David Kinch
Restaurant at Meadowood (The)	Wine Country	Napa Valley	St. Helena	Christopher Kostow
Saison	San Francisco	SoMa		Joshua Skenes

Two Stars

Excellent Cuisine, Worth A Detour

Restaurant	Area	District	City
Acquerello	San Francisco	Nob Hill
Atelier Crenn	San Francisco	Marina
Baumé	South Bay		Palo Alto
Campton Place	San Francisco	Financial District
Coi	San Francisco	North Beach
Commis	East Bay		Oakland
Quince	San Francisco	North Beach

One Star

Best Western Hotels & Resorts Adds First North American Hotel to Its Growing Roster of BW Premier Collection Hotels

Best Western Hotels & Resorts has announced the first North American hotel to join the BW Premier Collection®—The Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa in Puerto Rico. The BW Premier Collection, Best Western’s soft brand, consists of carefully selected high-quality hotels in primary and destination markets.

Hotels within the BW Premier Collection are not part of the official Best Western membership but they are listed, and can be booked through bestwestern.com. Guests will be able to earn and redeem Best Western Rewards points at all BW Premier Collection hotels.

As a BW Premier Collection Hotel, independent hoteliers in primary and destination markets will lock in the advantages of The World’s Largest Hotel Chain® with over 4,000 hotels located in more than 100 countries and territories around the world. BW Premier Collection hotels benefit from:

1) Access to Best Western’s $4.1 billion global reservation system

2) Participation in Best Western Rewards, our award-winning and fast growing loyalty program

3) Powerful mobile, eCommerce and technology resources

4) Pay-for-performance business model

5) Short term contracts

6) Low fee structure that will improve your profitability

7) Reduced reliance on third party distribution channels

8) Optional á la carte services such as design services; access to over 500 endorsed suppliers with special pricing; state-of-the-art revenue management services; industry-leading education programs; customized eCommerce and digital marketing programs, and more

“We are delighted with the addition of the AAA 3 Diamond Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa to the growing number of properties under the BW Premier Collection brand. The BW Premier Collection is beneficial for our guests and independent hoteliers. Best Western guests have more choices for city center and resort hotels at which to earn and redeem Best Western Rewards points and independent hoteliers will benefit from the powerful $4.1 billion global distribution channels of Best Western International,” said David Kong, Best Western president and CEO.

The Copamarina Beach Resort & Spa is located on the southwestern side of Puerto Rico in Caña Gorda, Guánica, 90 miles away from the City of San Juan. This unique beachfront property is surrounded by the Dry Forest in the north and Caribbean Sea in the south, stretching over 20-acres of tropical lush gardens.

Each of the 106 resort rooms and suites features a furnished balcony or patio for enjoying beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea or our lush tropical gardens. Copamarina Beach Resort accommodations are all nonsmoking.

Deluxe Hotel Rooms – Deluxe Garden and Ocean View rooms feature top value without sacrificing style or comfort. Deluxe Garden rooms are available with one king-size bed or two queen beds. Deluxe Ocean View rooms are furnished with one king bed and a sleeper sofa or two queen beds.

Alexandra, the award-winning fine dining experience, is open from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m on weekends. Alexandra offers Puerto Rican Nouvelle Cuisine prepared by our internationally-acclaimed chefs, as well as a complete wine list. Menu highlights include Caribbean Seafood Paella, Crabmeat and Pumpkin Risotto, Lobster Tail in Mustard and Mango Sauce, Filet Mignon with Burgundy Sauce over Spinach. Inventive vegetarian and kids’ menus are available nightly as well.

The 106 room resort has undergone a $1.6 million renovation of its public spaces, facilities and guest rooms. The ocean-front hotel’s amenities include two resort-style pools and two children’s pools, an al fresco restaurant and an indoor fine dining restaurant both featuring the best of Puerto Rican Cuisine.

The resort also has a full-service spa, tennis courts, exclusive access to Gilligan’s Island on a private boat from the hotel’s dock, non-motorized aquatic sports including, kayaks, hobby cats, paddleboards and diving. In addition it has over 4,000 SQ. FT of indoor space for events and weddings.

Discover exciting things to do in Puerto Rico when you vacation at Copamarina Beach Resort in Guánica. With convenient access to Puerto Rico activities and famous attractions in Puerto Rico, there is always something fun to do near Copamarina Beach Resort.

Arid and dry, Guánica State Forest is a stark contrast from the lush rainforests of Puerto Rico. The forest is the largest of its kind in the world and is designated by the United Nations as a Biosphere Reserve. Guánica State Forest is home to rare and endangered plants and animals, including bird species that are native to Puerto Rico and found only in this forest. Guánica State Forest offers 36 miles of hiking trails, stunning views, and beach access. Visit http://gopuertorico.about.com.

Ponce Museum of Art Collection – Museo de Arte de Ponce features an impressive permanent collection of more than 4,500 objects from around the world. While the works of world cultures are represented in the museum’s collection, Museo de Arte de Ponce is best known for 19th century English paintings and Baroque paintings from the 17th century. Also represented are important works by Puerto Rican and Latin American artists. In addition to the museum’s permanent collection, Museo de Arte de Ponce hosts traveling exhibitions throughout the year.

Bioluminescent Bay – A Bioluminescent Bay tour tops the list of must-do activities for guests staying at Copamarina Beach Resort. This popular attraction is a favorite for children and adults, offering a rare glimpse into a natural phenomenon found few places in the world. Copamarina is twenty minutes away from the Bioluminescent Bay and directions can be provided at the front desk. Reservations for the Bay are not necessary.

The Wall at Playa Santa – Experience the most famous scuba diving spot in Guánica at The Wall. A continental shelf dropping more than 1,500 feet, The Wall supports a diverse ecosystem of stunning marine life. Large deep sea fish, black coral, neon reef fish and other sea life are abundant along The Wall. Dolphins, eels and turtles are also commonly seen. Consult the Copamarina Beach Resort diving experts for more information.

Centro Ceremonial Indígena – On the outskirts of Ponce, Centro Ceremonial Indigena is one of the largest and most important archeological landmarks in Puerto Rico. Discovered in the 1970s, Centro Ceremonial Indigena is a compound of plazas believed to date back as far as 400AD. Archeological data indicate that the site was occupied primarily through 1,000AD, with the most recent inhabitants being the Taino people. A museum is located on the grounds. Visit http://www.puertoricodaytrips.com.

Holiday 2015: Festified.com Offers New Christmas Movie-Themed Sweaters and Design-Your-Own Custom Sweaters

Festified.com has announced a host of new Christmas sweaters and apparel that will make the 2015 holiday season “more festive than ever” according to company founder and CEO John Kaplar.

Movie-themed sweaters will feature more new designs for “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and “A Christmas Story,” plus a new line of “Elf (The Motion Picture)” sweaters. “Elf” designs will include “Son of a Nutcracker,” “Cotton Headed Ninny Muggins,” and “Buddy the Elf” among others.

“ELF” Lighted Vest Sweater

Also new this year is the Custom Sweater Generator, which lets the customer add text and graphics to several Festified sweater designs to create a custom look. This online tool makes it easy to design one-of-a kind ugly Christmas sweaters. The customer selects the product, adds clip art and text, and adjusts the design as desired. Festified will create the custom sweater and ship it directly to the customer’s doorstep. http://www.festified.com/custom-ugly-christmas-sweaters/

Festified’s online sweater design tool can also be used to create Custom Hanukkah Sweaters, Custom Thanksgiving Sweaters, and Custom New Year’s Eve Sweaters. http://www.festified.com/custom-ugly-christmas-sweaters/

Festified is also introducing several new Lighted Christmas Sweaters, a proven hit at holiday parties and Ugly Christmas Sweater events. (The wearer controls the tiny LED lights for maximum “wow” effect.)

Other new products for 2015 include the Retro Humping Reindeer Sweater (a catchy new take on a classic), the classy Chanukah cardigan, and new Sweggings (Sweater Leggings) designs. http://www.festified.com/new-products/

Men’s Retro Humping Reindeer Sweater (Navy)

Naughty Christmas Sweaters are still a specialty of Festified. This year the company is offering a new Reindeer design featuring a front pocket that allows the wearer’s finger to control the reindeer’s “Candy Cane.” http://www.festified.com/mens-frisky-rudolph-naughty-sweater-green/

Festified customers will continue to find favorites like the Lighted Fireplace Sweater – and much more. Festified also offers scarves, hats, leggings, pants, and crazy accessories to complete the festive look. And sweaters are offered in big and tall sizes, including 3XL, 4XL, and 5XL.

Men’s Frisky Rudolph Naughty Sweater (Green)

Festified offers high-quality, well-made sweaters and apparel that will last for years. That focus on quality has made Festified the industry leader for Christmas sweaters and accessories. (Jimmy Fallon has featured Festified sweaters in his “12 Days of Christmas” skits for several years.) And Festified is known for its legendary, no-hassle customer service that makes shopping easy and satisfying.

The complete line of Festified sweaters, apparel, and holiday items can be found at the company’s website, www.Festified.com.

Brooks Brothers Group, Inc and Walton Brown Group Announce Joint Venture Partnership To Accelerate Growth of Brooks Brothers in Greater China

Brooks Brothers Group, Inc and Walton Brown Group, a subsidiary of The Lane Crawford Joyce Group, Asia’s premier fashion retail and brand management group, today announced the establishment of a joint venture that will drive Brooks Brothers’ market expansion throughout the region. Brooks Brothers today operates more than 460 stores worldwide including over 130 retail stores in the Asia Pacific region, 90 of which are in Greater China.

The 50/50 joint venture, with an initial term of 10 years commencing January 2016, will leverage the strengths and capabilities of Walton Brown in strategic retail brand management in Greater China and the global appeal of Brooks Brothers, one of America’s most iconic clothing brands, augmenting its dynamic growth across the Greater China region.

The joint venture will take over the management of Brooks Brothers’ existing retail network of 90 stores in the territory and will activate a strategic expansion plan to open more than 10 points of sale in the first two years across key cities in China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. In addition to freestanding stores, the joint venture partnership will see a deep investment in a multi-channel distribution platform providing wholesale, outlets, travel retail and e-commerce channels to bolster brand presence and fuel business growth in the region.

Building on the success of Brooks Brothers‘ ready-to-wear menswear and accessories collections, the product offerings within its women’s collection and accessories lines will be enhanced with the appointment of Zac Posen as the Creative Director for women’s wear. His highly anticipated first women’s collection will debut in Spring/Summer 2016 and will be available worldwide.

Claudio Del Vecchio, Chairman and CEO of Brooks Brothers, stated, “We are thrilled to be partnering with Walton Brown on this exciting joint venture which enables us to develop long-term growth strategies across multiple online and offline distribution channels especially in China, one of our most important growth markets for our global business. We are confident in China’s growth prospects in the premium sector for the coming years and this is the optimal time for us to position Brooks Brothers for long term sustainable growth.”

Mr. Del Vecchio added, “With Walton Brown’s in-depth local market insights and extensive distribution capabilities and network in retail, we believe we can capture new opportunities to further deepen our relationship with Chinese consumers.”

Thomson Cheng, President of Walton Brown, said, “In the 12 years Brooks Brothers has been operating in China, the brand has built a strong following of customers who subscribe to its unique heritage and rich history of design and quality craftsmanship. With the foundation in place, we believe the brand has enormous potential with the new generation of sophisticated and prosperous consumers in China and with the launch of the online business in 2016 we will be able to significantly increase reach with this consumer segment.”

Following the formation of the joint venture, Brooks Brothers and Walton Brown will establish a corporate office and showroom in Hong Kong in early 2016.

Walton Brown primarily is a full service strategic retail platform which partners with large-scale international brands to grow their businesses in Greater China by providing total geographic and channel coverage of the market including retail, wholesale, e-commerce, travel retail and outlets. Walton Brown manages the Juicy Couture and Kate Spade New York brands in Greater China. Walton Brown also currently operates the chain of flagship luxury Maison Mode in Chengdu, Changsha and Urumqi with more than 800 brands across 800,000 square feet. Its portfolio also includes an outlet business with large retail complexes totaling more than 600,000 square feet, offering off-season fashion merchandise from more than 200 brands, in Chengdu under the Times Outlets banner, and Qingdao. A 1.3 million square foot site is under development for an outlet in Changsha to open in 2016, with more outlets to follow across Tier 1 to Tier 4 cities in China.

The Lane Crawford Joyce Group is Asia’s premier fashion and brand management group, which includes iconic, luxury department store Lane Crawford, cutting edge fashion boutique Joyce, fashion footwear, handbags and accessories specialist Pedder Group, retail, brand management and distribution company ImagineX and full service retail management business Walton Brown.

The Lane Crawford Joyce Group operates luxury department stores and boutiques, free-standing branded stores and e-commerce and omni-channel operations. It has leadership positioning in designer women’s wear, menswear, shoes and accessories, cosmetics, home and lifestyle, and fine jewelery. It works with more than 1,500 international fashion brands – including 35 brands under exclusive distribution partnerships.

With more than 165 years of trading experience in the region, each of The Group’s companies is acknowledged as a pioneer in its space, being first to market with designer and luxury brands, and building brands’ businesses through dynamic partnerships and collaborations. The Group currently operates 620 points of sale across 50 cities in Greater China and South East Asia, with a total retail space of more than 1,600,000 square foot.

Visit Pensacola Invites the Public To Step Back in Time While Touring El Galeon

The 16th Century Spanish Tall Ship Sails Into Pensacola on October 21.

After sailing more than 40,000 nautical miles and visiting dozens of countries, El Galeon, a Colonial-era Spanish galleon replica, will sail into Pensacola Bay on Wednesday, Oct. 21, and dock at Plaza de Luna in Downtown Pensacola. The historic two-masted tall ship is owned and operated by the Nao Victoria Foundation, a Spanish non-profit organization.

El Galeon originally came to the United States from Spain in 2013 to celebrate Florida’s 500th birthday and has been traveling around the country ever since. The ship has made more than 25 ports of call since its arrival in 2013. The ship is set to depart Pensacola on Monday, Nov. 2, depending on weather and sailing conditions.

El Galeon is a full-scale reconstruction of the popular 16th Century sailing cargo vessel. Built by the Nao Victoria Foundation in 2009, the ship measures 170-feet long by 125-feet-tall, has a 30-foot beam, weighs 495 tons and draws 10.5 feet of water. The ship is commanded by Capt. Rosario Fernandez Rodriguez and maneuvered by 22 crewmembers. The galleon is similar to the one that Tristan de Luna, governor of Florida in the 16th Century, sailed when he arrived to what today is called Pensacola Bay.

EL GALEON will be open to visitors daily from 10 AM. to 7 PM starting on Thursday, Oct. 22, and ending Sunday, Nov. 1. Five of the six decks will be available for tour. Admission cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-12. Children five and under are free. School groups are welcomed and invited to tour the ship with advanced arrangement.

“The Port of Pensacola is so happy to be a part of bringing another Spanish tall ship to Pensacola for a visit,” said Amy Miller, Port Director. “Our city’s rich nautical history is rooted in our deep ties to Spain and our Spanish ancestors who first settled this region more than 450 years ago. It’s exciting to be able to bring a piece of history to our downtown waterfront.”

“Pensacola represents the mutual history of Spain and the United States,” said Maria Davis, honorary vice consul of Spain in Pensacola. “Spain was the superpower of its day and in 1559 the Spanish made their first settlement in Pensacola. Even though that settlement was destroyed, Pensacola persisted being a Spanish colony.”

“An example of the importance of Pensacola to Spain is King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia’s visit here in 2009 to commemorate the 450th anniversary of Pensacola’s first settlement,” she further added.

For more information on El Galeon or to purchase tickets, visit www.elgaleon.org.

Visit Pensacola leads the effort of economic development through tourism in Escambia County. Comprised of over 200-member businesses, Visit Pensacola’s mission is to position the Pensacola Bay Area as a premier year-round travel destination through tourism marketing, communications, meetings and conventions, reunions and group tour initiatives. For more information about Visit Pensacola, call 1-800-874-1234 (toll-free) or go to VisitPensacola.com.

Heineken And RSVP Gallery Debut Exclusive Cap For “#Heineken100” Program

HEINEKEN USA® today released the third of its five 2015 #Heineken100 product collaborations: a custom jersey knit and lambskin strap-back cap by innovative Chicago fashion space RSVP Gallery. The ultra-limited offering, designed by RSVP Gallery Operator and Buyer Isimeme “Easy” Otabor, features a chrome buckle and subtle #Heineken100 branding on its interior. The piece will be unveiled tonight (October 19^th) at a launch event at RSVP Gallery, where five attendees will have the opportunity to take home the one-of-a-kind accessory.

Heineken and RSVP Gallery debut exclusive lambskin and jersey knit cap for #Heineken100 program. (PRNewsFoto/HEINEKEN USA Inc.)

Now in its sixth year, the #Heineken100 program, which celebrates the brand’s hyper-influential consumers with custom collaborative products, is partnering with legendary men’s fashion outposts in five of its consumers’ favorite U.S. cities. These include KITH in New York City, Union in Los Angeles, RSVP Gallery in Chicago, Alchemist in Miami and Concepts in Boston. Each partner is creating a custom product that will be unveiled at a VIP launch event and seeded to 100 national influencers.

Heineken and RSVP Gallery debut exclusive lambskin and jersey knit cap for #Heineken100 program. (PRNewsFoto/HEINEKEN USA Inc.)

RSVP Gallery is a Chicago-based conceptual menswear boutique offering merchandise that doubles as art. The name RSVP comes from the French phrase, “Répondez s’il vous plaît,” serving as an invitation for guests to visit the store, participate, become inspired and ultimately respond. All apparel, footwear, accessories, and reading materials are carefully curated and reflect RSVP Gallery‘s identity as a true lifestyle brand. For more information, visit the company’s online store at www.rsvpgallery.com.

Heineken and RSVP Gallery debut exclusive lambskin and jersey knit cap for #Heineken100 program. (PRNewsFoto/HEINEKEN USA Inc.)

“We were excited to be chosen as a #Heineken100 collaborator,” Easy said. “The program’s jersey knit theme inspired us to create a classic Chicago-style cap – an icon that, much like Heineken, will never go out of fashion.”

For the first time ever, the program has expanded to include a #Heineken100 City Guide, along with local activations in each of the five markets, for ages 21 and over. Created by the #Heineken100 retailers and HighSnobiety, the #Heineken100 City Guide highlights the favorite locales of its culturally connected partners.

Heineken logo (PRNewsFoto/Heineken)

“Heineken’s goal for this year’s program is to continue connecting with influencers around the world, in the cities they call home,” said Ralph Rijks, Senior Vice President, Heineken. “We partnered with RSVP Gallery because they are truly at the forefront of Chicago’s art and fashion spheres.”

The first 2015 product, a custom basics set designed by KITH NYC‘s founder Ronnie Fieg, dropped in August, followed by the September debut of Union Los Angeles founder Chris Gibbs‘ limited-edition sports coat. The next product collaboration is set to drop in November with a launch event at Alchemist in Miami. Boston’s Concepts will round out this year’s collection with the launch of its collaborative product in December.

Watch the #Heineken100 hashtag for more information.

HEINEKEN USA Inc., the nation’s leading upscale beer importer, is a subsidiary of Heineken International BV, the world’s most international brewer. European brands imported into the U.S. include Heineken, the world’s most international beer brand, Strongbow Hard Apple Ciders, Desperados, Amstel Light, and Newcastle Brown Ale. HEINEKEN USA also imports the Dos Equis Franchise, Tecate Franchise, Sol, Indio, Carta Blanca and Bohemia brands from Mexico. For the latest information on the company and brands, follow on Twitter @HeinekenUSACorp, or visit www.HEINEKENUSA.com.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® And More Than 70 Leading National Brands Kick Off The Season Of Giving With Annual St. Jude Thanks and Giving® Campaign

Kmart, Best Buy, ANN INC., Kay® Jewelers, Domino’s, Williams-Sonoma, Inc., HomeGoods and Others Unite To Help End Childhood Cancer

Now in its twelfth year, the St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign has transformed the holiday season into a time of giving thanks by raising awareness and funds for the ongoing battle to end childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The campaign unites celebrities, media, retail and corporate partners in asking consumers to donate while they shop and support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Founded by the late actor/entertainer Danny Thomas, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It is the only NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE-designated COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to 80 percent since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude is working to drive the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to 90 percent, and they won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude freely shares the discoveries it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.

What began as a holiday-focused fundraising effort by St. Jude has now grown into an annual tradition that has raised more than $588 million. These funds support St. Jude’s mission to provide cutting-edge treatment and pursue visionary research.

Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, helps kick off St. Jude Thanks and Giving, an annual campaign that has transformed the holiday season into a time of giving thanks by raising awareness and funds for the ongoing battle to end childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. (PRNewsFoto/St. Jude Children’s Research…)

“We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support we receive year after year during the St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign,” said Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Throughout the holiday season people open their hearts to the children of St. Jude and as a result, our doctors and scientists can continue their groundbreaking research and pioneering procedures that help us achieve our landmark survival rates. And, we are able to continue to ensure that no family pays St. Jude for anything – not for treatment, travel, housing or food – because we believe all a family should worry about is helping their child live.“

Beginning in November and running through the end of December, consumers can support St. Jude while they shop at a variety of businesses representing a cross-section of premier brands in retail, restaurant, travel, hospitality, media and beyond. Top returning campaign partners include Kmart, Best Buy, ANN INC., Kay® Jewelers, Domino’s, Williams-Sonoma, Inc.; HomeGoods, New York & Company, AutoZone, Brooks Brothers, GNC, Dollar General, Claire’s, Carnival Cruise Line, Justice, HSN, Marshalls, Chili’s® Grill & Bar; and Mazda, to name a few.

“Kmart’s long history of success in supporting charitable causes is due to the generosity of our Shop Your Way members, customers and associates. We’re proud of the impact our results have made for the families of St. Jude and thankful to St. Jude for its tireless work to defeat cancer and other diseases in children. St. Jude made holiday shopping at Kmart more rewarding and we’re excited to support an organization that clearly means so much to our members,” said Alasdair James, President and Chief Member Officer at Kmart.

This year, St. Jude partners are expanding and supporting the campaign in a variety of ways – from in-store fundraising to unique cross-promotions, events and online/mobile features.

“It is Best Buy’s privilege to partner in the St. Jude Thanks and Giving campaign, by making it convenient for our customers to give back while shopping in stores and online during the holidays,” said Sharon McCollam, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Best Buy. “By adding options to give through our credit card signature pads last year, we made it easier for customers to contribute during the checkout process. As a result of their generosity, we were able to contribute $9.7 million last year, and hope to do even more this year to support the children and families served by St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.“

OTHER PARTNER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Several partners are offering merchandise products during the holidays to benefit St. Jude including

– Ann Taylor, Brooks Brothers, HomeGoods, HSN, Kmart, New York & Company, The Limited, TUMI, Westfield, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. and their portfolio of brands; to name a few.

– Kay® Jewelers will once again offer its popular plush animals benefitting St. Jude, this year featuring Travis and Trey.

– AutoZone, returning for its 10th year as a St. Jude Thanks and Giving partner, will continue to ask consumers to donate at checkout via the credit pad.

– Customers will be able to donate through a fully integrated online shopping cart at Best Buy, Ann Taylor, LOFT, Claire’s and ICING. In addition, customers will now be able to donate via the pin pad at the register at GameStop, The Limited, Crazy8 and Janie and Jack locations nationwide.

– eBay is giving its customers the opportunity to give at checkout during the week of December 7. During this time, customers can also bid on celebrity items that will benefit St. Jude.

– Domino’s will ask consumers to donate to St. Jude via walk-up, telephone, online and mobile orders, as well as the opportunity to purchase a St. Jude Meal Deal during the campaign timeframe. For each Meal Deal purchased, Domino’s will donate $1 to St. Jude.

– Stage Stores and St. Jude will be featured on the Balancing Act on Lifetime TV this holiday season.

– Party City has joined the campaign this year and customers can make a donation at nearly 600 stores nationwide or donate online during checkout.

Hawaiian Airlines ‘Time Is Precious’ Partnership Promotes Breast Cancer Awareness

Proceeds From New Hawaiian Airlines Branded Fossil Watch Benefit ’Imi Hale, the Native Hawaiian Cancer Network

Hawaiian Airlines is honored to promote breast cancer awareness and raise funds for education and research through a new ‘Time is Precious’ partnership with watchmaker Fossil to support ’Imi Hale, the Native Hawaiian Cancer Network.

In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, co-branded Hawaiian Airlines/Fossil watches featuring a pink ribbon design will be available for purchase from October 15 to October 31 aboard Hawaiian flights between Hawai‘i and North America, Australia and New Zealand. The limited-edition watches may also be purchased through the Hawaiian Airlines online logo store. Sales proceeds will be donated to ’Imi Hale, a community-based health network dedicated to cancer prevention and healthcare access among native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

The watches, offered in pink or gray for $95, are housed in a custom tin case adorned with an airplane graphic, along with the word Hihahiwa (precious)

The co-branded Hawaiian Airlines/Fossil watches featuring a pink ribbon design will be available for purchase from October 15 to October 31 aboard Hawaiian flights between Hawai‘i and North America, Australia and New Zealand.

“We are extremely proud to help raise awareness of a life-threatening disease that touches the lives of so many people in our community,” said Debbie Nakanelua-Richards, director of community relations at Hawaiian Airlines. “In doing so, we couldn’t think of better partners than Fossil, a champion of cancer awareness nationally, and ’Imi Hale, which has worked tirelessly to help our ‘ohana, the larger family of our island home.”

The idea for the partnership originated from Hawaiian Airlines employees, some of whom have been personally affected by breast cancer, as a way to raise awareness about the disease and support research. The watches, offered in pink or gray for $95, are housed in a custom tin case adorned with an airplane graphic, along with the word Hihahiwa (precious) – a reminder of the beauty of time and that every moment should be treasured.

Sales proceeds will be donated to ’Imi Hale, a community-based health network dedicated to cancer prevention and healthcare access among native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

The ’Imi Hale Native Hawaiian Cancer Network has trained over 200 people to serve as “Cancer Patient Navigators” who assist patients with timely access to education, treatment and support services, said JoAnn Trask, ’Imi Hale project director.

“I lost my parents, grandmother and aunt to cancer and as a cancer survivor myself, I know how hard it is to get through the healthcare system,” said Jacqueline Nalani Perreira, cancer survivor and cancer patient navigator. “Every cancer patient should have someone to help them through the rough waters of cancer care and I am now privileged to be that helper, supporting patients and their families.”

Hawaiian’s partnership with Fossil and ’Imi Hale is among a host of company initiatives to support worthy causes throughout the state of Hawai‘i. The Hawaiian Airlines Foundation annually presents grants in three categories: education, culture and environment. In 2014, corporate giving supported 128 organizations, while more than 1,700 employees volunteered at events sponsored by 48 organizations. Additionally, Hawaiian matches miles (up to 500,000) donated to 10 designated charities, including the American Cancer Society Hawai‘i Pacific.

Hawaiian® has led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for each of the past 11 years (2004-2014) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Consumer surveys by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and Zagat have all ranked Hawaiian the highest of all domestic airlines serving Hawai‘i.

Now in its 86th year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawai‘i’s biggest and longest-serving airline, as well as the largest provider of passenger air service from its primary visitor markets on the U.S. Mainland. Hawaiian offers non-stop service to Hawai‘i from more U.S. gateway cities (11) than any other airline, along with service from Japan, South Korea, China, Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa and Tahiti. Hawaiian also provides approximately 160 jet flights daily between the Hawaiian Islands, with a total of more than 200 daily flights system-wide.

Toys“R”Us® Kicks Off Its Annual Holiday Fundraising Campaign To Benefit The Marine Toys For Tots Foundation

Shaquille O’Neal, Affectionately Known as Shaq-A-Claus, Enlists Customers to Support Toys for Tots and #PlayItForward

Toys“R”Us® has announced the launch of its Annual Nationwide Fundraising Campaign to benefit the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Now through Sunday, December 6, customers can spread holiday joy to some of the 15.5 million U.S. children living in poverty by donating new, unwrapped toys at any Toys“R”Us or Babies“R”Us® store across the country and online at www.Toysrus.com/ToysforTots. The company will also collect monetary donations in-store and online through Christmas Eve. As the largest retail partner in the history of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Toys“R”Us has raised nearly $42 million and collected more than 4 million toys since the partnership began in 2004.

Help @ToysRUs & @SHAQ -A-Claus spread #holiday cheer to millions of kids in need. #PlayItForward

NBA Legend, philanthropist and entrepreneur, Shaquille O’Neal once again joins the company’s campaign as his alter ego Shaq-A-Claus, to encourage shoppers to donate to Toys for Tots. Throughout the campaign, Shaquille will also invite social media users to #PlayItForward, an initiative designed to further spread awareness of the millions of children living in poverty and to inspire families to donate to the cause.

Shaq-A-Claus is back to partner with Toys“R”Us and the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation for another year to help spread holiday joy to some of the 15.5 million U.S. children living in poverty and is encouraging customers to #PlayItForward.

“Making wishes come true around the holidays is especially important to me, as I know how much one toy and one act of kindness can matter. When I was a kid, I was given my very own Dr. J autographed basketball, inspiring me to believe I could grow up to be a basketball star,” said Shaquille O’Neal. “For years, I would shop for presents at Toys“R”Us and distribute them to underprivileged children on Christmas morning. Now, in partnership with Toys“R”Us and the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, I’m making it my mission as Shaq-A-Claus to give back and spread holiday cheer to the millions of needy kids in the U.S. I encourage everyone to join me this year and remember – every toy counts!”

Shaq and Geoffrey Team Up to #PlayItForward: To help Twitter followers give the gift of play to kids in need on #GivingTuesday, the Toys“R”Us Children’s Fund will donate 1 toy to Toys for Tots, up to $125,000 worth, for every retweet of Shaquille’s #PlayItForward tweet on December 1.

#PlayItForward with Shaq-A-Claus and #GivingTuesday

Throughout the 10-week holiday giving campaign, fans and followers of Toys“R”Us on social media will enjoy exclusive content, including special messages from Shaq-A-Claus, fundraising updates and more. To motivate his own followers to #PlayItForward, Shaquille will also tweet and Instagram (@SHAQ), as well as post on Facebook at Facebook.com/Shaq.

And, Shaquille will make it even easier for Twitter followers to give the gift of play to kids in need this holiday season with a special tweet on #GivingTuesday. For every retweet of Shaquille’s #PlayItForward tweet on December 1, the Toys“R”Us Children’s Fund will donate one toy to the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, up to $125,000 worth of toys.

#PlayItForward with Shaq-A-Claus and #GivingTuesday

Time for Toys & Time for Cheer! #PlayItForward

“We are thrilled to partner with the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation once again to provide toys to children who might otherwise go without one this holiday season,” said David Brandon, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc. “We are honored to have Shaquille O’Neal back in his Santa suit, helping us #PlayItForward, and value his ongoing commitment to join us in spreading the joy of Christmas to kids in need around the country. Together, we’re enlisting the help of our team members and customers to donate more toys and dollars than ever before.”

Toy Industry Names Disney’s Bob Iger as 2016 Inductee into Esteemed Hall of Fame

The Toy Industry Association (TIA) announced it will induct Robert A. Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company, into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. Mr. Iger was selected by members of TIA in recognition of his significant contributions to the industry and the impact his work has had on the lives of children worldwide.

Robert A. Iger, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company (Courtesy of the Walt Disney Company)

Mr. Iger joins an impressive roster of 70 toy industry luminaries, including Jim Henson and George Lucas, who have been inducted into the Hall since it was established in 1984. The Toy Industry Hall of Fame is housed with the National Toy Hall of Fame at The Strong museum in Rochester, NY.

The 2016 ceremony honoring Mr. Iger will take place at the 16th Annual Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards on Friday evening, February 12, 2016 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. The ceremony will kick off the 113^th North American International Toy Fair, February 13-16, 2016 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

In 1984, the Toy Industry Hall of Fame was established to recognize the people who have brought the value of play to the lives of children and adults. Every year for the past three decades, members of the industry have proudly nominated hundreds of men and women — from toy inventors to toy retailers — who have made their mark on the industry and created a love of play in the hearts of children of all ages.

Mr. Iger is the steward of the world’s largest media company and some of the most respected and adored brands around the globe. He has grown Disney‘s portfolio of beloved brands with the acquisition of Pixar (2006), Marvel (2009), and Lucasfilm (2012), three of the entertainment industry’s greatest storytelling companies. Always one to embrace new technology, Mr. Iger has made Disney an industry leader through its creative content offerings across new and multiple platforms.

“Just about every child around the globe has been touched by the magic of Disney,” said TIA President & CEO,Steve Pasierb. “Mr. Iger has done an impressive job of building on Disney’s rich history and growing their storytelling portfolio, creating new experiences and unforgettable memories for generations of kids to come.”

The Toy Industry Association™, Inc. (TIA) ( www.toyassociation.org / www.thegeniusofplay.org) is the not-for-profit trade association representing all businesses involved in creating and bringing toys and youth entertainment products to kids of all ages. TIA’s 750+ members account for an estimated 90% of the annual $22 billion U.S. domestic toy market. The Association serves as the industry’s voice on the cognitive, social, emotional and creative benefits of play, and promotes play’s positive impact on childhood development to consumers and media. TIA also has a long history of leadership in toy safety, having helped develop the first comprehensive toy safety standard more than 30 years ago, and remains committed to working with government, consumers and industry on ongoing programs to ensure safe and fun play.

Stoli® Vodka Unveils First Complete Packaging Re-Design In More Than Eighty Years

Pioneering Vodka Brand Introduces New, Contemporary Bottle; Design – Inspired by Bartenders – Features Improved Pouring Control and On-shelf Visibility

The New Bottle Is An Evolution Of The Original Iconic Version That Has Remained Unchanged For Nearly 80 Years.

For the first time since the brand’s inception more than eighty years ago, Stoli® Vodka has revealed a completely re-designed bottle and packaging for the full range of Stolichnaya® Premium Vodka products. The new bottle design features new elements that contemporize the brand for the millennial audience, while remaining true to Stoli’s longstanding heritage as an iconic vodka pioneer. The re-designed packaging was unveiled today during the 2015 TFWA World Exhibition and Conference in Cannes.

Considered a trailblazer in the vodka industry, Stolichnaya vodkas are bottled in Latvia and define the benchmark for quality with meticulously crafted liquid that meets the highest Alpha Spirit standard.

Stoli will roll out this striking new design for the Stoli portfolio worldwide, including the flagship Stoli Vodka and the full range of category-leading flavors in the U.S., beginning in November 2015 with full

Stoli(R) Vodka Unveils First Complete Packaging Re-Design In More Than Eighty Years (PRNewsFoto/Stoli Group USA, LLC)

distribution by early 2016. Significant upgraded features include:

— SLEEK BOTTLE PROFILE – A taller and more elegant bottle shape with an embossed brand “Stoli” logo on the neck. The new design improves both pouring and control for bartenders with the use of anti-slip embossing on the neck and base.

— ENHANCED ON/OFF PREMISE VISIBILITY – A new craft label texture, bold upgrade of the main Stolichnaya logo and subtle nuance details throughout the design better stand out to customers at point of purchase. The Stoli flavored products are also now color-coded on the neck to match the flavor for easier on-shelf product identification.

— RE-DESIGNED LABEL – A revised premium paper front and back label highlighting Stoli’s heritage and quality credentials including its qualification as a Certified Alpha Grade spirit, the highest quality level a spirit can reach.

“Any well-known brand of status and longevity should regularly update packaging to stay relevant to modern design trends and consumer tastes,” said Lori Tieszen, Chief Marketing Officer, Stoli Group USA. “We want to ensure that the extraordinary vodka we have inside of our bottle is supported by a packaging that’s equally as extraordinary. The new design celebrates Stoli’s authentic and pioneering heritage while making a bold visual statement reflecting our status as THE Vodka.”

Added Tieszen, “In redesigning our packaging, we sought input from some of the world’s top bartenders to ensure that the bottle was not only aesthetically pleasing, but included practical enhancements for our partners within the trade.”

“THE Vodka,” is a title celebrated by Stoli as a brand that has pioneered the vodka category since its inception in 1938. Stolichnaya was the original premium imported vodka in the United States, the first vodka brand in space, and the first brand to launch flavored vodkas in the 1960s.

Stoli Group® USA, LLC is the North American subsidiary of SPI Group, recognized globally for pioneering heritage and the outstanding Stolichnaya® brand of premium vodkas. Since its inception in 2014, Stoli Group USA already boasts one of the largest domestic distribution networks in the U.S. and is a growing distributor of premium spirits, led by the flagship Stoli® Vodka Brand, its category-leading flavors including Ohranj®, Razberi®, Vanil®, Citros(TM), and the ultra-premium luxury vodka elit(TM) by Stolichnaya®. In October 2015, Stoli Group USA announced an exclusive distribution partnership with the best-selling American craft rum, Bayou Rum®.

kate spade new york Unveils Expanded, Comprehensive Home Furnishings Collection

Iconic Lifestyle Brand Debuts Furniture, Lighting, Rugs and Fabric at High Point Market

Building on its success in the home category, kate spade new york announces significant expansion in the home furnishings category with the introduction of furniture, lighting, rugs and fabric. The comprehensive collection, comprised of 325 pieces across four categories, launches to the trade at the fall 2015 High Point Market in North Carolina (Ocotober 17-22), with a complete assortment of offerings for every room in the home.

kate spade new york launches a complete assortment of offerings for every room in the home, with furnishings, lighting, rugs and fabrics. (PRNewsFoto/kate spade new york)

The new kate spade new york home furnishings collection builds upon the brand’s successful offerings in tabletop, linens, bedding, stationery and giftware with Lenox, Town & Country Living, DWI Holdings and Lifeguard Press, respectively. Created in collaboration with best-in-class manufacturing partners, each category incorporates sophisticated design details and luxurious fabrications:

— Furniture (EJ Victor): colorful upholstered seating, dining, bedroom and occasional tables and mirrors featuring details ranging from hand-painted spots to a burl wood finish. E. J. Victor was founded by Edward W. Phifer III, Joseph B. Manderson and John Victor Jokinen in January 1990 to pursue the art of creating furniture excellence. To this day, E. J. Victor maintains an unwavering commitment to preserving time -honored quality construction methods used to create exquisite furniture for the home and offers several collections including Ralph Lauren, Kelly Wearstler, Aerin, Allison Paladino, Berber Kammlah, Jack Fhillips and Randall Tysinger.

— Lighting (Visual Comfort): brilliant sconces, table lamps and pendants with brass bows, spotted detailing and jewel-encrusted sputniks. Visual Comfort & Co. is the premiere resource for signature designer lighting, collaborating with the most influential names in design. Using authentic materials honed to meticulous standards, Visual Comfort delivers unparalleled quality and value.

— Rugs (Jaipur): timeless flat weave, hand-tufted and hand-knotted rugs in iconic animal, floral and geometric prints. Founded in 1978, Jaipur revolutionized the rug industry by creating an entirely new business model – working directly with artisans and uplifting their lives and communities as a result. Since then, the company have grown to become a global, award-winning brand, sharing our unique point of view through our range of rugs, textiles and other home decor products.

— Fabric (Kravet): clever fabrics and wallpapers in bright colors and signature motifs. Kravet Inc., established in 1918, is the industry leader in to-the-trade home furnishings. This fifth generation family business distributes fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. The family’s commitment to innovation has helped the company transform from a small fabric house to a global leader, representing brands and designers from all over the world. In 2015, Kravet Inc. introduced CuratedKravet.com, a to-the-trade only e-commerce site offering designers unique furniture and accessories curated from around the globe.

The full home assortment will be available in spring 2016. The brand also accelerated nearly 60 signature items from the collection, which will be available for immediate purchase and shipping within the U.S. beginning October 16, 2015 on katespade.com. These select items range across categories and retail price points and include an iconic 9-x-12′ hand-knotted rose print rug ($14, 210), tufted pale aqua sofa ($5,950), a playful ampersand side accent table ($675), and a brass ribbon sconce ($380), among others.

“Each piece in our extensive collection reflects traditional and modern influences, but with a unique kate spade new york twist. We translated iconic kate spade new york designs like subtle bow accents, as well as signature colors and fabrics, such as shocking pink linen and turquoise velvet, into stylish and unique home items,” said Deborah Lloyd, President and Chief Creative Officer of kate spade new york. “We cannot wait to see how our customers layer our pieces into their homes to express their own interesting, personal style.“

Kate Spade & Company designs and markets accessories and apparel principally under two global, multichannel lifestyle brands: kate spade new york and Jack Spade. With collections spanning demographics, genders and geographies, the brands are intended to accent customers’ interesting lives and inspire adventure at each turn. The Company also owns the Adelington Design Group, a private brand jewelry design and development group that markets brands through department stores and serves jcpenney via exclusive supplier agreements for the Liz Claiborne and Monet jewelry lines. The Company also has a license for the Liz Claiborne New York brand, available at QVC, and Lizwear, which is distributed through the club store channel.

Discover Adventure! New Animated Build-A-Bear Float To Debut At 89th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®

New Giant Character, Angry Birds’ Red, Is Set To Take Flight in Celebration of Next Summer’s Columbia Pictures/Rovio Entertainment’s “THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE”

The 89th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Airs Nationwide On NBC-TV, on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2015, from 9 AM – Noon; In All Time Zones.

With more than 50 million viewers across the country and more than 3.5 million spectators that line up along the streets of New York City each year, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a national icon that has grown into a world-famous holiday event. For almost 90 years, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has marked the official start of the holiday season. Growing in size and scale, the Parade proudly marches down a more than 2-mile route in New York City with more than 8,000 participants in tow including Macy’s employees, their families, celebrities, athletes, clowns and dance groups spreading holiday cheer. The Parade also features America’s best marching bands, fabulous floats and Macy’s signature giant helium character balloons.

On Nov. 26, a new float from Build-A-Bear, a global brand kids love and parents trust, will roll through Manhattan during the 89th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®. The latest Build-A-Bear float in the annual spectacle will feature a variety of scenes and of course, bears – all with one mission in mind: Discover Adventure! A part of the Macy’s Parade family since 2002, this year’s latest floating wonder marks the third Build-A-Bear float for the Parade which is sure to delight the more than 3.5 million spectators lining the Parade route on Thanksgiving Day.

Build-A-Bear is a multi-generational brand that will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2017. Since the company was founded in 1997, more than 145 million furry friends have been made. Build-A-Bear has approximately 400 stores worldwide where guests can create customizable furry friends, including company-owned stores in the United States, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Puerto Rico, and the United Kingdom, and franchise stores in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Mexico and the Middle East.

“Making memories and celebrating life’s moments are at the heart of everything we do, and countless memories are made every year when the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, one of America’s most anticipated events, takes place,” said Gina Collins, chief marketing officer, Build-A-Bear. “We worked closely with the talented team at Macy’s to create exciting scenes that evoke a sense of adventure and incorporate teddy bears – the icons of our brand – into one incredible new float.”

The engineers and craftspeople at Macy’s Parade Studio began working with Build-A-Bear on the new concept in early 2015, and construction took approximately five months. The front view of the float begins with two bears playfully riding ocean waves, while a sailboat captained by a Sailor Bear rocks gently overhead. A castle featuring Build-A-Bear’s icon, Bearnard, serves as the centerpiece, complete with a friendly, smoke-breathing dragon climbing up to see a Princess Bear, who showers the crowds with confetti. The sides of the float feature different scenes of wonder and adventure including a classic teddy-bear tea party, as well as a trip to outer space on a rocket ship manned by an Astronaut Bear, who turns his head to gaze upon the world as he flies into the air with bouncing stars.

“For nearly 90 years, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has brought generations of families together to enjoy the wonder and magic of the official kick off to the holiday season,” said Amy Kule, executive producer, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “Once again, we enthusiastically welcome Build-A-Bear and their new float to our glorious procession as together we celebrate the childlike spirit in everyone.”

More than 50 million viewers tune in to watch the magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade each year. The latest design from Build-A-Bear is one of only five new floats that will take part in this year’s event.

“As we look ahead to our upcoming anniversary, we recently unveiled a fresh look and feel through our new Discovery concept stores, so it was important to reflect that into the design of our newest float in the Macy’s Parade,” added Collins. “On Thanksgiving Day, our float will allow millions to get a peek at the fresh face of Build-A-Bear.”

In addition to the Parade experience, this holiday season, Build-A-Bear is once again teaming up with Macy’s to offer shop-in-shops at seven Macy’s locations nationwide so that shoppers can take part in the full Build-A-Bear Workshop experience inside a Macy’s store.

Build-A-Bear Workshop will also bring its wildly popular Merry Mission story to life with the return of everyone’s favorite eight reindeer, along with a brand-new face, to stores this season. Glisten, the strongest, fastest reindeer of all time will light the night and help Santa and his team deliver toys to everyone on the nice list. Her special medallion unlocks the Merry Mission app and its features, and additional outfits and accessories are sold separately. Fans can download the updated Merry Mission app on iTunes and Google Play starting Nov. 1.

A giant bird also takes to the sky in a mad dash down Manhattan streets as THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE’s Red debuts as a colossal character balloon in the 89th Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®. Known to 3 billion fans as the hero of the blockbuster “Angry Birds” mobile game franchise by Rovio Entertainment, Red will transform into a helium giant ready to protect a precious egg during his inaugural flight in the famed holiday spectacle. Before hitting the big screen next summer in Columbia Pictures/Rovio Entertainment’s “THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE,” Red will migrate to New York City to celebrate the start of the holiday season during the annual Thanksgiving Day march.

Luxury Travel: The Ritz-Carlton Set To Debut In Mexico City In 2019

Legendary Luxury Hotel Brand To Introduce Stunning New Hotel On Avenida Reforma

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. has announced plans to open its first hotel in Mexico City in 2019. Upon completion, the 153-room Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City will operate under a long term management agreement with Thor Urbana Capital and Heldan Hotels & Resorts. The hotel marks a significant milestone for Ritz-Carlton development in the Caribbean and Latin America, representing its entrée into one of the region’s most prominent capital cities.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Thor Urbana Capital and Heldan Hotels & Resorts to expand our presence in the Caribbean and Latin America, particularly in Mexico City – an epicenter of commerce and culture,” said Herve Humler, president and chief operations officer for The Ritz-Carlton. “Mexico remains one of the largest and most important international markets for our company, and we are confident that our legendary Ritz-Carlton service and culture is a perfect match for this vibrant, exciting destination.”

The hotel will be part of the Chapultepec Uno mixed use project, prominently located at the intersection of Avenida Reforma and Circuito Interior in the heart of the city’s financial center. Once completed, the stunning structure will include 58 floors and 1.1 million square feet of space, rendering it one of the tallest buildings in the city. KMD Architects and Taller GLOBAL are leading the design and architectural efforts for the project.

The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City will occupy floors 36-47 of the building, featuring unobstructed views of Chapultepec Park. The hotel will include signature Ritz-Carlton luxury services and amenities including a Club Lounge and spa.

“Mexico City is the country’s economic, industrial and cultural center,” said Jaime Fasja, chief executive officer of Thor Urbana Capital. “We are so proud to be a part of this extraordinary project that we know will bring a new level of luxury hospitality to the city.”

“Travel to Mexico continues to grow for both business and leisure travel throughout the Caribbean and Latin America region and for inbound travel to the United States,” said Gabriel Helfon, chief executive officer of Heldan Hotels & Resorts. “This project will play a helpful role in the continued emergence and success of Mexico City as a leading international destination.”

Recently named by highly reputed London-based consultancy, Luxury Branding, as the world’s most popular luxury hotel brand, The Ritz-Carlton currently offers a collection of seven luxury hotels throughout the Caribbean and Latin America including The Ritz-Carton, Santiago, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun, The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan, and Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (Puerto Rico). In addition to The Ritz-Carlton, Mexico City, future locations in the region include Panama City, Panama (2016) and Los Cabos, Mexico (2017). The Ritz-Carlton portfolio currently includes 90 hotels around the world, with expectations for the brand to reach 100 hotels by the end of 2016.

Holiday Travel: Visit Pensacola Invites Travelers to its Snow-White Beaches to Experience a Different Kind of Winter Wonderland this Christmas Season

A Gingerbread City, Boutique Shopping, Surfing Santas, Historic Home Tours and the Annual Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl are Just A Few of the Fun Christmas Events That Make Pensacola One of the Best Beach Destinations for the Holiday Season

Visit Pensacola invites travelers to make cherished holiday memories in the historic Pensacola Bay Area this November and December. Watch Santa parachuting onto the beach, wave hello to Santa at one or all of the area’s numerous Christmas parades, or listen to the sounds of the season at holiday concerts. Take in the classic Nutcracker ballet, ice hockey game or the famous Snowball Derby.

Visit Pensacola leads the effort of economic development through tourism in Escambia County. Comprised of over 200-member businesses, Visit Pensacola’s mission is to position the Pensacola Bay Area as a premier year-round travel destination through tourism marketing, communications, meetings and conventions, reunions and group tour initiatives.

Pensacola is truly a winter wonderland, without the frigid temperatures, offering a myriad of holiday events guaranteed to even get Scrooge in the spirit. Weekends are jam-packed with original island-style, historic and jolly holiday activities. Whether you book a week, or a weekend, pack your camera, spirit of adventure and an ugly Christmas sweater (more below) and head for the white-sand beaches that were just voted Florida’s best. Holiday fun awaits in the Pensacola Bay Area.

NOVEMBER

November 27

Snow Princess Tea

Christmas season kicks off in Pensacola the day after Thanksgiving on Friday, Nov. 27, with an afternoon and evening filled with holiday activities. Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience for your child? Attend the Snow Princess Tea, beginning at 3 p.m. at the Pensacola Cultural Center.

Elf Parade and Lighting of the Greens

Winterfest Christmas holiday celebration in Downtown Pensacola at the foot of the old city courthouse

Following the tea, the annual “Elf Parade and Lighting of the Greens” begins at 4:30 p.m. throughout Downtown Pensacola and anyone may participate. Hundreds of children dressed as elves, adults and holiday characters meet Santa Claus at the Escambia County Courthouse for the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and a blizzard of Southern-made snow.

Winterfest Trolley Tours and Carriage Rides

Pensacola Winterfest offers old-fashioned trolleys and intimate carriage rides throughout Downtown Pensacola beginning on Nov. 27 – Dec. 23. The lively, music-filled Christmas trolley tours provide family-friendly entertainment and the chance to get close to Santa Claus, Frosty, and other classic Christmas characters.

DECEMBER

December 4-6

Snowball Derby

Sports fans won’t want to miss the nationally-known Snowball Derby automobile races at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola that attract big names in short track racing and even top series NASCAR drivers. Preliminary races and car contests lead up to the big event, the Snowball Derby, on Sunday, Dec. 6.

Pensacola Symphony’s “Home For The Holidays”

The Symphony joins forces with Broadway star and Pensacola native Ashley Brown for a melodious Christmas concert on Friday, Dec. 4, at 7:30 p.m. at Pensacola’s historic Saenger Theatre.

the Lighted Boat Parade on Pensacola Beach

Pensacola Beach Lighted Boat Parade and Surfing Santa Parade

Pensacola Beach hosts several coastal Christmas-themed events with Santa sightings including the beautiful Pensacola Beach Lighted Boat Parade on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6 p.m. and the Surfing Santa Beach Parade on Sunday, Dec. 6, at 2 p.m.

Historic Pensacola Lighthouse Christmas Gala

The Historic Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum will officially light “Pensacola’s tallest Christmas Tree” (the lighthouse itself) during its annual Christmas Gala, featuring Santa Claus and hot cider on Saturday, Dec. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m.

HalloweenCostumes.com Reveals 2015 Trends and Popular Costumes

Check Out Some Of The Hottest New Trends In Halloween Costumes For The 2015 Season.

From Donald Trump To Minions To Star Wars, See What Children And Adults Will Be Wearing This Year.

All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints’ Eve, Halloween, whatever you refer to it as, this annual fall celebration has become a behemoth of a holiday. The debate surrounding Halloween’s origins is still being waged, but when you are at a house party surrounded by “sexy” Minions, provenance matter little. This year, like almost every year preceding it, Halloween is becoming more popular, more commercialized, and more outrageous. No longer a holiday just for kids, Halloween has become increasingly popular with adults looking for an escape and the opportunity to dress as their favorite superhero, monster, or meme.

Adult – Katie Perry Left Shark Costume

Boys – White Big Hero 6 Baymax Inflatable Costume

Child – Minions Deluxe ‘Bob’ Jumpsuit

Inside Out ‘Joy’ Classic Costume

Paw Patrol Marshall Child Costume

Squiggly Pig Costume

“Overall, one trend we are seeing among Halloween enthusiasts is no longer thinking of costumes as a ‘one and done‘ throwaway affair. People are looking for costumes made with better (higher quality/more expensive) materials that fit more like “regular” clothing. And rather than those one piece tunic-style costumes, these apparel costumes often have multiple pieces – a vest, jacket, pants, etc.” states a spokesperson for the company.

With Halloween’s popularity skyrocketing in the last few years, expect to see manufacturers creating more elaborate and higher price point costumes for children and adults. With more parties and opportunities to wear said costumes, many adults feel that spending a little more on a costume is justifiable, and with that higher quality, it can be reused year after year. So go ahead and spend $120 on that deluxe Attack on Titan costume—you deserve it.

Popular themes for adult costumes this year range from the political to the cinematic to the flash-in-the-pan topical. Donald Trump, everyone’s favorite political fascination, is going to be showing up at nearly every Halloween party this year. His iconic wig has already sold out once on HalloweenCostumes.com, and has since been restocked – only to sell out again! The biggest blockbuster films of 2015 will also be hot costumes this year, whether it be Chris Pratt’s Velociraptor trainer (or the dinosaurs themselves) from Jurassic World, Mad Max: Fury Road’s Furiosa, or the intergalactic heroes and villains from the soon-to-be released Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Travel America: New Wolves of Yellowstone Photography Safari from Wildlife Expeditions of Teton Science School Announced for 2016

Wildlife Expeditions of Teton Science Schools, known for its exceptional biologist-led tours of Yellowstone National Park, has created a new small-group U.S. safari to experience and photograph the park’s famous wolves. Offering an unparalleled intimate eight-day wildlife adventure for March 2016, the Wolves of Yellowstone Photography Safari includes a scenic flight for breathtaking aerial views of wolf habitat.

A trip-of-a-lifetime opportunity for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, Wildlife Expeditions of Tetons Science Schools‘ exciting new March 2016 Wolves of Yellowstone Photo Safari provides a photographer’s eye view of the Lamar Valley – known as the American Serengeti – and the wolf packs that call it home. Incorporating a scenic flight for breathtaking aerial views of Yellowstone National Park and beyond, the all-new eight-day tour is open to all levels of photographers who wish to see and photograph one of North America’s wildest places. Recently recommended by The New York Times, the new adventure travel experience combines useful tips and techniques from Wildlife Expeditions’ expert photographers with the deep knowledge and wildlife spotting skills of the group’s highly skilled biologist guides. The rare small-group U.S. safari is available to a limited number of people on specific dates from March 6 – 28.

A once in a lifetime opportunity for all levels of photographers, the new Wolves of Yellowstone Park Safari from Wildlife Expeditions promises wight days of adventure. (Photo by Paul Maddex)

Over the course of eight days, small groups of just six people per customized Mercedes-Benz safari vehicle will have the opportunity to discover some of the U.S.’s most remarkable scenery and wildlife – while gaining skills to capture the adventure through a camera lens like a pro. The tour begins in Bozeman, Mont., heading to Yellowstone’s Paradise Valley and on to explore the geothermal features of Mammoth Hot Springs.

Snowboots and poles are supplied for a Yellowstone hike and guests travel in style via a cozy Mercedes-Benz safari vehicle for Wildlife Expeditions March 2016 Wolf Photo Safari. (Photo by Sean Beckett)

Next, guests experience three days in the Lamar Valley, known for its one-of-a-kind wolf-viewing opportunities. In addition to the extensive focus on the wolves, the Lamar Valley leg of the tour will also provide the chance to see and photograph other wildlife that may include bison, pronghorn, elk, eagles, bighorn sheep and bears. Groups will comfortably ride in Wildlife Expeditions Mercedes Sprinter safari vehicles customized with large viewing windows and sunroofs, perfect for photography. Overnights in Montana hotels will be arranged by Wildlife Expeditions, as well as daily meals and snacks.

Big horn Sheep are one of the many species to see and photograph on the new 2016 Yellowstone safari trip from Wildlife Expeditions (Photo by Sean Beckett)

Lunch Tour Winter Yellowstone: Clients eat lunch near Canyon in winter in Yellowstone National Park. Wildlife Expeditions provides snacks, meals and accommodations for safari guests for a unique and comfortable experience while esploring the wild. (Photo by Jay Goodrich)

The seventh day of the new wolf photography safari offers a scenic private flight over wolf habitat in Yellowstone National Park, as well as the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, Old Faithful and possibly the Tetons and Jackson Hole, weather permitting. The tour then returns to Yellowstone for an afternoon hike on snowshoes, followed by an overnight at Chico Hot Springs Resort. Groups will depart from Bozeman on the final day of the tour.

The new Wolves of Yellowstone Photography Safari is offered on three sets of dates in 2016: March 6 – 12, March 13 – 20 and March 21 – 28. Each trip is limited to six people to accommodate photography equipment as well as comfortable riding space in the custom vehicles, and guests will receive expert photography instruction using their own cameras and equipment. The cost of the eight-day adventure is $4,495/person.

Wildlife Expeditions of Teton Science Schools has a well-earned reputation of leading exceptional safari tours and locating wild animals in the wilderness in and around Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. As Jackson Hole, Wyoming‘s premier and original safari provider, Wildlife Expeditions offers family-friendly educational tours year-round in a stunning natural environment. The tour company has been recognized by national media including Conde Nast Traveler and USA Today’s “10 Amazing Adventures under $1,000.” Teton Science Schools is an authorized concessioner of the National Park Service, providing snowcoach tours, ski and snowshoe trips, photography and chartered programs in Yellowstone National Park. For more information or to book a Wildlife Expeditions tour, visit www.tetonscience.org.

Lancôme And St. Jude Partner To Create “Moments Of Happiness”

“Finding a way to bring moments of happiness to children with life-threatening illnesses and their families, with joy and grace, is a delicate balance. I applaud the work that Lancôme is doing with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.” – Lancôme ambassadress Julia Roberts.

Lancôme, a brand devoted to “la vie est belle”, is expanding its commitment to St. Jude to bring moments of happiness to patients and their families by supporting the cause in a bigger way than ever before. For the past five years, Lancôme has partnered with St. Jude through various fundraising efforts and is now elevating and expanding their support. The Moments of Happiness campaign will begin this month and will include regional in-store events with celebrity makeup artist Mickey Williams, an interactive social media “hand heart” campaign and nationwide fundraising efforts that will benefit St. Jude throughout the year.

As Lancôme’s national charity partner since 2010, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its leading work finding cures and saving children. Lancôme respects St. Jude’s passion for research and dedication to making a difference in the lives of millions of families.

Through state-of-the-art research, Lancôme pioneers new concepts in beauty, while always remembering that true beauty lies beyond appearances. Since visionary pioneer Armand Petitjean founded the brand in 1935, Lancôme has epitomized timeless glamour with a quintessential French touch. Lancôme’s ambition is that every woman who comes to the brand to look more beautiful leaves feeling happier.

Today the world’s leading luxury beauty brand continues to inspire with its elusive je ne sais quoi of effortless French chic and the very best in quality, style, and transformative results. With a presence in 130 countries, over 20,000 beauty advisers in as many points of sale relay Lancôme’s message of French excellence, with incredible service and iconic products such as: L’Absolu Rouge, Hypnôse mascara, Dual Finish, Teint Idole, Advanced Génifique, Visionnaire, Absolu L’Extrait, Tresór and La Vie Est Belle.

The brand continues to offer every woman the best in beauty through its Elite Membership Rewards Program, which allows customers access to exclusive offers, products and uniquely indulgent experiences through brand partners. Lancôme’s ambassadresses include Julia Roberts, Kate Winslet, Penélope Cruz, Lupita Nyong’o, Lily Collins, Alma Jodorowsky and Daria Werbowy.

From October 18th to October 24th, the brand will donate $1 directly to St. Jude for every transaction made on Lancome-usa.com and at counters nationwide. This includes bestsellers such as La Vie Est Belle, a fragrance collection that embodies happiness, and two products known for award winning innovation – Définicils Mascara and the Génifique skincare collection. A limited-edition bracelet will also be offered at counters for incremental donations.

“Our work with St. Jude began in 2010, and every year, it’s becoming bigger and bigger, and better and better,” says Xavier Vey, President of Lancôme USA. “It’s a very important partnership for Lancôme. It was rooted in a strong, shared belief in research and innovation that can transform lives. But that was just the beginning. For these families facing difficult times, we bring a slight moment of happiness. And that’s fundamental for Lancôme, because the brand is all about bringing happiness beyond beauty. We like to say that at Lancôme, you come to a counter to look more beautiful, but you leave happier.”

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Research and treatments pioneered at St. Jude have improved the childhood cancer survival rate from 20% to 80%. No family receives a bill for treatment, travel, food or housing; no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay. The majority of funding for St. Jude comes from individual contributions through programs like this, and helps ensure families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.

“Lancôme has been a dedicated partner of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for the past five years and we are truly grateful for their innovative approach in raising funds and elevating awareness of our life-saving mission through this new campaign,” said Richard Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC/St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Lancôme’s support means St. Jude can continue to freely share its discoveries so that one child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientist worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children.”

Specific retail partners are also supporting the cause. From October 16^th through October 24^th, Lancome and Dillard’s will donate $2 of every transaction to support research and treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. HSN will also be featuring the campaign during the brand’s scheduled appearances on October 24^thand 25^th. In addition, Lancôme invites fans and followers to Instagram or Tweet “hand hearts” with the hashtag #LancomeGivesBack* and the brand will make a $1 donation to St. Jude in their honor.

Celebrity Makeup Artist Mickey Williams will also host makeover events at select Dillard’s and Macy’s counters throughout October. For more information about these events and how to get involved go to lancome-usa.com.

For more information, go to www.stjude.org.

Spend Christmas Getaway At The Excelsior, Hong Kong

With the lead-up to Christmas well underway, The Excelsior, Hong Kong (A Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group property) launches an enticing festive package for those looking to indulge in Hong Kong’s glittering Christmas lights and exciting holiday atmosphere.

The Excelsior, Hong Kong (A Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group property)

Situated in the heart of Causeway Bay, the shopping center of Hong Kong Island, The Excelsior, Hong Kong is only a five-minute drive from the city’s central business district and 40 minutes by MTR from Hong Kong International Airport. The hotel features five exclusive Executive Floors with a private lounge, a fully equipped business centre, a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre featuring advanced fitness equipment and dedicated spa facilities, as well as extensive meeting and banquet facilities.

West Night View

Executive Floor Side Harbour View Room

Book the hotel’s Christmas Getaway Package from HKD 2,180* for a two consecutive nights’ stay to enjoy the following:

• One night’s accommodation in a Superior Side Harbour View Room
• Complimentary daily breakfast for two at Café on the 1st
• Festive welcome amenities and a bottle of red wine upon arrival
• Exclusive The Excelsior Christmas gift
• Complimentary in-room Internet access and local telephone call
• Priority reservations in all hotel restaurants
• A special supplement of HKD 200 for an upgrade to a Deluxe Harbour View Room

Rates are valid from 18 December 2015 to 3 January 2016 and subject to availability. All bookings must be guaranteed by credit card.

In addition, the hotel’s other restaurants will be offering a number of celebratory dining options for guests to choose from.

ToTT’s and Roof Terrace

On New Year’s Eve, ToTT’s and Roof Terrace will be hosting a Countdown Gala Dinner, priced at HKD 2,388*, including one glass of champagne upon arrival and a countdown party with live music entertainment.

Café on the 1st

Guests can savour the Seafood Buffet Dinner starting on Christmas Eve, featuring an array of appetizers, freshly shucked oysters, hot dishes and a sumptuous choice of desserts. Prices start at HKD 588*.

*Prices are subject to 10% service charge.

Room reservations can be made by contacting the hotel’s reservations hotline at +852 2837 6840, by e-mailing exhkg-reservations@mohg.com or through the hotel’s direct online reservations service at www.mandarinoriental.com/excelsior. Restaurant reservations can be made by contacting +852 2837 6787 or e-mailing exhkg-xmas@mohg.com.

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences. Having grown from a well-respected Asian hotel company into a global brand, the Group now operates, or has under development, 46 hotels representing 11,000 rooms in 25 countries, with 21 hotels in Asia, nine in The Americas and 16 in Europe, Middle East and North Africa. In addition, the Group operates or has under development, 16 Residences at Mandarin Oriental connected to its properties.

Modernism Week in Palm Springs Announces 2016 Schedule, Highlights Include Modern Cuba Experience, Fashion, Events Beyond the Coachella Valley

Modernism Week’s Signature February Festival Will Take Place February 11-21, 2016, Highlighting Midcentury Modern Design, Architecture, Art, Fashion And Culture In The Palm Springs Area Of Southern California.

Modernism Week’s signature February Event is an annual celebration of midcentury modern design, architecture, art, fashion and culture. The mission of Modernism Week is to celebrate and foster appreciation of midcentury architecture and design, as well as contemporary thinking in these fields, by encouraging education, preservation and sustainable modern living as represented in Palm Springs.

Julius Shulman and Juergen Nogai, photo 2007, The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands; A. uincy Jones and Frederick E. Emmons, 1966

Modernism Week 2016 Logo

This exciting festival takes place in February in the Palm Springs area of Southern California. Modernism Week features more than 250 events including the Modernism Show & Sale, Signature Home Tours, tours of iconic homes, a world-class lecture & film series, architectural walking, biking, lectures, Premier Double Decker Architectural Bus Tours, tours of the historic Annenberg Estate at Sunnylands, a Palm Springs Walk of Stars dedication for architect Richard Harrison, vintage fashion, classic cars, garden tours, nightly parties and live music, walking and bike tours, fashion, classic cars, modern garden tours, a vintage travel trailer exhibition, Modern Giants – a celebration of the area’s largest collection of midcentury modern commercial buildings at Eisenhower Medical Center and more.

In addition to the events in February, Modernism Week hosts the “Fall Preview” over Columbus Day weekend in mid-October. Partner organizations collaborate to produce a “mini-Modernism Week” to kick-off the active social and recreational season in Palm Springs.

Modernism Week is also a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization, providing scholarships to local students pursuing college educations in the fields of architecture and design; as well as supporting local and state preservation organizations and neighborhood groups in their efforts to preserve modernist architecture throughout the state of California.

“Coming off the tremendous success of Modernism Week’s tenth celebration in February 2015, we’ve expanded this year’s slate of events geographically,” explained Board Chairman, Chris Mobley. “February’s schedule includes exciting tours and activities throughout the Coachella Valley and beyond, and long-time supporters of Modernism Week will be thrilled with the selection of appealing new programs.”

The Kaufmann House designed by architect richard Neutra helped establish the style that became known as Deser Modernism. Completed between 1946-47, the iconic project was built as a winter vacation home. Photo Credit: David A. Lee

A highlight during the first weekend of Modernism Week is “Party at the Yacht Club – An Exclusive Taste, Toast and Tour of Albert Frey’s Historic Masterpiece” (2/12), a celebration of Albert Frey’s North Shore Beach & Yacht Club (1959) being officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). A direct shuttle will depart from Modernism Week’s CAMP headquarters to the Salton Sea, where guests will enjoy an exclusive tour of the yacht club, lunch, the unveiling of the NRHP plaque, and the premiere of the Salton Sea Art Show – a curated collection of paintings, sculptures and photography.

Modernism Week will also take a trip to the Museum of Pinball in Banning, one of the greatest kept secrets of the midcentury modern revival. ‘Retro Pinball Mania’ (2/15) will be an evening of partying in a midcentury modern atmosphere while enjoying unlimited free-play on more than 700 beautifully restored vintage arcade and pinball machines.

theFashionSpot’s Spring 2016 Diversity Report: New York Leads the Charge, Milan Lags Far Behind

Data from 373 International Shows Reveals Industry Slow to Change and Major Designers that Continue to Exclude Models of Color

The numbers are in: TotallyHer Media’s theFashionSpot, the web’s largest fashion-focused community and editorial site, has released its annual Diversity Report on the Spring/Summer 2016 runway shows in New York, London, Paris, and Milan. Surveying 373 shows and 9,926 model appearances, theFashionSpot examined the race, age, size, and gender identity of runway show casts to determine how much diversity in the fashion industry has grown this year. Just over 77% of all models cast were white, and the numbers have been improving gradually—80% white models were reported for Fall 2015, and 83% for the previous spring. While the runways are becoming more racially diverse, plus-size, transgender, and models over age 50 continue to make up a tiny fraction of runway casts.

“Despite slight gains, it’s clear the fashion industry has a long way to go on the road to equality,” said Jennifer Davidson, Managing Editor for theFashionSpot.com, part of TotallyHer, an Evolve Media company.

“Diversity has increased across the board, but some designers are far ahead of others. While Chromat’s runway has a 70% diverse cast, plenty of brands had completely whitewashed shows, and Milan’s Fashion Week featured zero plus-size models, transgender models or models over the age of 50. We hope that by continuing to draw attention to these numbers and shine the spotlight on designers whose ideas about casting are shifting, we’ll encourage others to follow suit.”

Below are highlights from theFashionSpot’s Spring 2016 Runway Diversity Report. The entire report can be found here: http://www.thefashionspot.com/runway-news/651479-runway-diversity-report-spring-2016/

Race:

Of all the shows surveyed, 77.6% of the time models were white. This is slightly better than the 80 percent reported for Fall 2015 and 83 percent from the previous spring shows.

New York shows were the most racially diverse in every category, with 10.7 percent Black models, 8.7% Asian models, and 4.2% Latina models.

Milan was the least diverse on all counts, with the highest rate of white models at 82.8%, and no plus-size models, transgender models, or models over the age of 50.

Chromat had the most multicultural show of Fashion month, with a cast that was 70% models of color.

The top model of Fashion Month was 19-year old Dominican beauty Lineisy Montero, the first model of color to rank number one by walking in 68 shows across all four Fashion Weeks.

Season for season, Asian, Black and Middle Eastern models all saw a minor bump in castings. The only models of color* that decreased were Latinas, who went from 2.9 percent for fall to 2.6 percent for spring.

Size:

Plus-size models accounted for only .1 percent of the total model appearances.

All 14 plus size models that walked this season came out of New York.

Transgender:

Transgender models made up .06 percent of all model appearances.

Half of the transgender model castings were in New York, while one transgender model each walked in the London and Paris shows.

Age:

Only five models over the age of 50 appeared in any shows this season, making up .05 percent of the total. One of these appearances took place at Nehera in Paris; the rest walked in New York. Most notably, two black supermodels re-emerged on the catwalk. Veronica Webb walked for Theallet and Pat Cleveland took a turn down Elie Tahari’s runway. There were also appearances at VFiles and Eckhaus Latta in New York. Collectively, this group of models made up the .05 percent of the total.

And the story has reverberated with The Business of Fashion in a series of Op-Ed pieces written by Bethann Hardison, Reina Lewis, Ben Barry and Helen Pike. Collectively, they and The Business of Fashion has placed the focus, once again, back on the lack of diversity in fashion in way that cannot be ignored. (See links to Op-Ed pieces below.)

Agencies Holding Back Black Models by Bethann Hardison, Founder, The Diversity Coalition

http://www.businessoffashion.com/community/voices/discussions/why-isnt-the-fashion-industry-more-diverse/op-ed-agencies-are-holding-back-models-of-colour

Why isn’t the fashion industry more diverse? By Helen Pike, Professor of Cultural Studies, London College of Fashion

http://www.businessoffashion.com/community/voices/discussions/why-isnt-the-fashion-industry-more-diverse/between-the-catwalk-and-the-consumer-fashions-growing-diversity-gap-2

Fashion Reinforces Racial Hierarchies of Beauty by Reina Lewis, professor of cultural studies at London College of Fashion and author of ‘Muslim Fashion: Contemporary Style Cultures.’

http://www.businessoffashion.com/community/voices/discussions/why-isnt-the-fashion-industry-more-diverse/op-ed-fashion-reinforces-racial-hierarchies-of-beauty

Diversity In Fashion Advertising Does Sell by Ben Barry, Assistant Professor of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the School of Fashion, Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada. http://www.businessoffashion.com/community/voices/discussions/why-isnt-the-fashion-industry-more-diverse/op-ed-diversity-in-fashion-advertising-does-sell

And the story continues……

Originating in July 2001, theFashionSpot (www.theFashionSpot.com) made a name for itself as an invitation-only community of designers, stylists and fashionistas that dissected designer collections, celebrating some and skewering others. Building on the largest fashion-focused community on the web, theFashionSpot.com has grown into a respected fashion editorial site with a strong and active community element and is part of the TotallyHer Beauty and Style Portfolio, reaching nearly 13 million unique visitors (comScore, May 2015). With close to 70,000 invitation-only members playing an active role in the site’s forum, theFashionSpot encompasses the largest community of authentic fashion influencers online. In 2015, theFashionSpot was recognized once again by MediaPost’s OMMA Awards for website excellence in fashion and beauty. Recent brand advertisers include Macy’s, Tresemme, Anne Klein, P&G, Kraft, Coach, Revlon, Weight Watchers, and more. theFashionSpot is part of TotallyHer, an Evolve Media (www.evolvemediallc.com) company.