A Little Pink Does a Lot of Good: Lands’ End’s Pink Thread Project to Raise Awareness and Funds For The Breast Cancer Research Foundation

The Lands’ End Pink Thread Project will once again prove that a little pink can do a lot of good. The company is raising awareness and funding for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) through the annual campaign, which was created to further support the organization’s mission to be the end of breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research.

Lands’ End (PRNewsFoto/Lands’ End, Inc.)

“At Lands’ End, we are proud to partner with and support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation through the annual Pink Thread Project,” said Joe Boitano, Co-Interim Chief Executive Officer, Lands’ End. “This impactful campaign proves that a little pink truly does a lot of good, and together with our customers we look forward to helping make a difference.”

Lands’ End’s Pink Thread Project Raises Awareness and Funds For The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. For every Pink Thread monogram or embroidery added to Lands’ End apparel, accessories or home goods, Lands’ End will donate $4.50 of the $6.00 fee to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Supporters can take part in the Pink Thread Project by ordering online at http://www.landsend.com  now through October 31, 2016. (PRNewsFoto/Lands’ End, Inc.)

The Pink Thread Project is a simple, beautiful way to raise funds for breast cancer research by adding any monogram or embroidered icon using pink thread to Lands’ End apparel, accessories or home goods ranging from totes and towels to cardigans and shirts. For every Pink Thread monogram or embroidery, Lands’ End will donate $4.50 of the $6.00 fee to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Supporters can take part in the Pink Thread Project by ordering online at landsend.com from now through October 31, 2016. (View campaign video here.)

“Our goal is to accelerate the breakthroughs bringing us closer to a cure and to speed up the progress that will improve survivorship and quality of life for breast cancer patients today. But that research relies on us all—by uniting with the highest rated breast cancer organization in the country, Lands’ End will undoubtedly propel research forward, faster. Together, we can be the end of breast cancer,” said Myra J. Biblowit, President & CEO, Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Additional Pink Thread Project Initiatives

The Pink Thread Project will also feature other initiatives to support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation now throughout the month of October, which include:

Purchase Pink Styles – From inspirational warm socks and lovely scarves to handy totes, purchase select pink Lands’ End merchandise and 25 percent of the net purchase price (excluding sales/use tax and shipping and handling fees) from the sale will benefit BCRF.

In Stores – Lands’ End will donate 10 percent of the retail purchase price of select pink women’s apparel and accessories sold in Lands’ End Shops at Sears to the BCRF during the campaign.

New Styles Give Back – In addition to core merchandise, select pink items from the Canvas by Lands’ End collection have been chosen for the campaign, and the sales of these select items will contribute 15 percent of the net retail purchase price (excluding sales/use tax and shipping and handling fees) benefitting BCRF.

Lands’ End Outfitters – Lands’ End is even giving businesses and organizations a way to raise funds for BCRF. Lands’ End Outfitters will feature a curated collection of 21 pink products that will be offered as part of the Pink Thread Project, with 5 percent of the net retail purchase price (excluding sales/use tax and shipping and handling fees) benefitting BCRF.

The Council Of Fashion Designers Of America And Fabletics Join Forces For the 2016 Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Initiative

Actress and Fabletics Co-Founder Kate Hudson is the Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Ambassador for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer 2016.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) is partnering with the stylish, high-quality and accessible activewear brand Fabletics for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer (FTBC) 2016. Iconic actress, fashion tastemaker, mother of two and Fabletics co-counder Kate Hudson is serving as the FTBC ambassador for October.

As part of the partnership, Fabletics launched an FTBC-branded outfit on September 28, “National Women’s Health & Fitness Day,” which will dovetail into October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The 3-piece look will feature a tank, sports bra and capri, with proceeds benefitting Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. Fabletics also hosted an FTBC event at all its locations that day with a percentage of sales donated to FTBC. Hudson follows an impressive list of previous FTBC Ambassadors including Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and Karolina Kurkova among others.

Kate Hudson Pictured in the FTBC Branded Outfit (PRNewsFoto/Fabletics)

The Fashion Targets Breast Cancer® (FTBC) name and symbol were created by Ralph Lauren and subsequently entrusted to the CFDA Foundation. In 2011, FTBC began working with The New York Community Trust to develop a focused grantmaking program covering the critical areas of breast cancer screening, treatment, and survival. It established the Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Fund, which is guided by an advisory committee of fashion industry representatives, experts in the content area, and Trust staff, to make grants to New York City organizations that assist women with breast cancer. Specifically, grants from the FTBC Fund help low-income, minority, and immigrant women, with screening, treatment, and support services to help them cope with their cancer.

(PRNewsFoto/Fabletics)

Fabletics is a high-performance lifestyle brand co-founded by Kate Hudson in 2013. Established to offer high-quality activewear at an accessible price, Fabletics was designed with the modern woman’s busy lifestyle in mind; every piece is intended to fit seamlessly into every moment of her day—from desk to dinner and workout to weekend. The brand offers a full selection of apparel and accessories to over one million VIP members across eight countries via its eCommerce website www.fabletics.com and thirteen U.S.-based retail stores.

Hudson has a passion for motivating and supporting women to lead healthy and active lives, and being the face of FTBC allows her to further her passion. “I feel so honored to be an ambassador for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. As a longtime supporter of the cause, I believe being given the opportunity to lend your voice and creativity to empower, support and spread awareness is a beautiful thing,” she said.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc, (CFDA) is a not-for-profit trade association founded in 1962 with a membership of over 500 of America’s foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry, and accessory designers. In addition to hosting the annual CFDA Fashion Awards, the organization owns the Fashion Calendar and stages New York Fashion Week: Men’s. It also offers programs which support professional development and scholarships, including the CFDA {Fashion Incubator}, the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, the Geoffrey Beene Design Scholarship, the Liz Claiborne Design Scholarship Award, the Kenneth Cole Footwear + Accessory Innovation Award, and the CFDA/Teen Vogue Scholarship. Member support is provided through the Strategic Partnerships Group, a group of high-profile companies offering designers strategic opportunities. The CFDA Foundation, Inc. is a separate, not-for-profit organized to mobilize the membership to raise funds for charitable causes. Through the Foundation, the CFDA manages the worldwide Fashion Targets Breast Cancer initiative and raises funds for HIV/AIDS organizations, among others programs.

“We couldn’t be more excited to have Kate join the history and legacy of Fashion Targets Breast Cancer. It’s a meaningful cause to the CFDA and one that we work year-round to help fundraise for. With Fabletics‘ focus on health and fitness, Kate is a perfect Ambassador to the cause and understands the importance of how fashion can support philanthropic endeavors,” said CFDA President and CEO Steven Kolb.

For more information, please visit www.CFDA.com, www.facebook.com/cfda, www.twitter.com/cfda, www.cfda.tumblr.com, and www.youtube.com/cfdatv

Official Launch of Wedspire Revolutionizes Wedding Industry

Each year, couples in the United States spend $100 Billion on wedding products and services, yet the stress on both professionals and consumers had yet to be resolved. That is, until Wedspire came into fruition. Wedspire, a new and unique two-sided, curated marketplace for the wedding industry, is officially launching on Sunday, October 2. Wedspire will be having its official public launch in Las Vegas at Wedding MBA October 3-5, at The Las Vegas Convention Center.

Wedspire is a platform to source, and purchase items from wedding professionals all in one spot. Through the platform, couples are offered wedding services and products through an extensive style quiz that results in an overall personalized experience for every user. With both the wedding professionals and consumers in mind, Wedspire has combined innovative features to create the most user-friendly and all-inclusive wedding marketplace available online.

The website brings the interaction between wedding professionals and couples into the ever-changing era of high technology. By catering to the millennial ideal of on-demand service, this innovative marketplace has combined information, inspiration, and the ability to purchase services all in one beautifully packaged platform.

Newly-engaged couples enjoy a curated Neflix-style feed of shopable items – from wedding cakes to that perfect dress and more. Comprehensive style and preference quizzes filter wedding needs based on style, budget and location into a unique ‘dream feed’ of items that are actually available for purchase. In addition to innovative planning tools, Wedspire allows the couple to shop while their budget dynamically updates based on their purchases. Throughout the entire process, from inspiration to check out, the website allows and encourages collaboration between family, friends and wedding professionals.

For wedding professionals, Wedspire has innovative manager tools that make it seamless for wedding professionals to fulfill orders and provide first class service to their customers. Tools such as synced appointment calendars, customizable billing options and integrated shipping allows the pro to focus on what they do best: deliver their service or product to the Bride and Groom on the happiest day of their life.

THE First KENZO X H&M Campaign Images by Jean-Paul Goude Are Revealed

H&M is proud to reveal the first KENZO x H&M campaign images by the iconic fashion and music image maker Jean-Paul Goude, featuring Chance The Rapper, Iman and rapper Suboi.

Model, Humanitarian and Beauty Business Icon Iman starring in the new Kenzo X H&M Campaign (Image provide by H&M Media)

Suboi starring in the new Kenzo X H&M Campaign (Image provide by H&M Media)

Chance The Rapper starring in the new Kenzo X H&M Campaign (Image provide by H&M Media)

The campaign stars seven globally celebrated personalities from fashion, music, arts and activism, with Chance, Iman and Suboi as the first campaign ambassadors revealing pieces from the KENZO x H&M collaboration. For the campaign, Goude has used his signature hand-made cut-up style, slicing and reassembling the prints to express the exuberance and character of the collection.

Image from The Kenzo X H&M Collection Lookbook

Accompanying the first revealed campaign images are three films by Swedish director Max Vitali, featuring interviews with the campaign ambassadors:

Cure Diva, Cancer Lifestyle Store, to Launch “30 Days of Breast Cancer Reality” for October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month

“We are a stylish, feminine environment, uniting a one-stop-shop and community site offering holistic answers to all the non-medical needs.”

Breast cancer gets lots of attention in October. Pink ribbons has already start popping up on merchandise in September, along with puppies and kittens with funny sayings. And this does only so much for the cause of breast cancer awareness. But it misses the mark when it comes to a different kind awareness – the reality of life before, during, and after breast cancer.

That’s where Cure Diva comes in…

With CureDiva, you’re never alone. Whether you were just diagnosed, or are a long-term survivor, one of the most immediate and direct impacts of being diagnosed with breast cancer is the way it can negatively affect your perception of your own femininity and appearance–your self-esteem. They know what’s it like, have been there themselves, and figured it was time to make a change… CureDiva is here to revolutionize the lifestyles of women coping with breast cancer and it’s after-effects, including the side effects caused by treatments.

This October, Cure Diva presents “30 Days of Breast Cancer Reality” where they will:

Encourage education, screening, and detection. Help women find resources and the benefits of being more assertive in the screening process.

Share a realistic picture of what life is like for women with breast cancer during treatment and beyond. Showcase some ways to make their lives easier and more comfortable.

Educate about long lasting effects of treatments, surgeries, and recurrence risk are just a few ways that being “cancer free” is misleading. Many women get rid of her cancer, but that isn’t necessarily the end of her breast cancer journey.

Educate people about metastatic breast cancer, with a special focus on October 13th, Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day.

Cure Diva is an online store for women with cancer, focusing on products to make their lives easier, more comfortable, and more stylish. It features lifestyle products, such as mastectomy bras, breast & nipple prosthetics, clothing, books, and beauty products developed for women with cancer. Many of these products were developed by women with breast cancer when they found no existing solutions. Cure Diva also offers stylish products that solve medical problems, such as lymphedema, post-surgical compression & draining, treatment planners, cooling accessories, and more.

The only online store dedicated to helping women with breast cancer find the right products for their needs, Cure Diva carries most major brands like Amoena, American Breast Care, AnaOno, Nearly Me, Classique, Anita, LuisaLuisa, Nouvelle, Top Secret Society, Trulife and more. In addition, Cure Diva has boutique product lines developed by women who had breast cancer, like Red Fern, Brittanie’s Thyme, Infusion Breast Care, June Jacobs, and more.

A Royal Visit from Great Britain: Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Lends 22 Paintings From The British Royal Collection to the Mauritshuis in The Hague

Lady at the Virginals with a Gentleman (“The Music Lesson“) by Johannes Vermeer Returns to the Netherlands for First Time in Twenty Years.

The Mauritshuis to Highlight Masterpiece in Landmark Dutch Masters Exhibition

Timed Tickets for Exhibition, At Home in Holland: Vermeer and his Contemporaries from the British Royal Collection

Lady at the Virginals with a Gentleman (“The Music Lesson”) by Johannes Vermeer, the highlight of At Home in Holland: Vermeer and his Contemporaries from the British Royal Collection, on display at The Mauritshuis (also known as The Mauritshuis Royal Picture Gallery) in The Hague, The Netherlands; September 29, 2016 – January 8, 2017. Photo Credit: Ivo Hoekska

From September 29, 2016 to 8 January 2017, The Mauritshuis (also known as The Mauritshuis Royal Picture Gallery) in The Hague (The Netherlands) will exhibit a selection of the most important Dutch genre paintings from the British Royal Collection. The renowned British Royal Collection, held in trust by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, includes highlights by famous painters such as Gerard ter Borch, Gerrit Dou, Pieter de Hooch, and Gabriël Metsu.

Gerard ter Borch (1617-1681) A Gentleman pressing a Lady to drink, ca. 1658-1659. Oil on canvas, 41 x 32 cm. Purchased for George IV, 1812. Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2016

The exhibition, At Home in Holland: Vermeer and his Contemporaries from the British Royal Collection, covers a broad selection of the best Dutch genre paintings from the British Royal Collection, including 22 paintings from the Collection and one from the collection of the Mauritshuis, The Young Mother by Gerrit Dou. This painting was part of the British Royal Collection until about 1700, and came into Dutch ownership through King and Stadholder William III. The highlights of the exhibition are Johannes Vermeer‘s ‘The Music Lesson‘ and Jan Steen‘s A Woman at her Toilet. Also featured are significant works by other grand masters of Dutch genre painting, such as the artists mentioned above and Willem van Mieris.

Gabriël Metsu (1629-1667) Self-Portrait standing at a Window, ca. 1655-1658. Oil on panel, 38 x 31 cm. Signed lower right: G. Metsu. Purchased by George IV, 1814. Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2016

Adriaen van Ostade (1610–1685), An elderly Couple in an Arbour, ca. 1670. Signed: Av. Ostade. Oil on panel, 23 x 19 cm. Acquired by George IV, 1814. Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2016

The exhibition At Home in Holland: Vermeer and his Contemporaries from the British Royal Collection is a collaboration between The Royal Collection Trust and the Mauritshuis. The exhibition was first held at The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, London, under the title Masters of the Everyday: Dutch Artists in the Age of Vermeer from November 13, 2015 to February 14, 2016. It then traveled and was on display at The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh until July 17, 2016. From Thursday September 29, 2016, the paintings will be on view in the Mauritshuis in The Hague.

Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675), Lady at the Virginals with a Gentleman (The Music Lesson), early 1660s. Oil on canvas, 73 x 65 cm. Signed on the bottom of the frame of the painting on the wall to the right: IVMeer (IVM in monogram). Acquired by George III, 1762. Royal Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2016

Lady at the Virginals with a Gentleman (“The Music Lesson”) by Johannes Vermeer returns to the Netherlands this fall for the first time in twenty years. This masterpiece, part of the British Royal Collection, was last on display in the Mauritshuis in 1996, as part of the major Johannes Vermeer exhibition and will be the highlight of this fall’s exhibition At Home in Holland: Vermeer and his contemporaries from the British Royal Collection.

“The Music Lesson” is one of the rare 36 surviving works by Johannes Vermeer. This painting dates from 1660-1662, and shows a woman and a gentleman beside a virginal. Above the instrument hangs a mirror, which reflects the foot of Vermeer’s easel. The painting was acquired by King George III of England in 1762, when it was attributed to Frans van Mieris the Elder. Only later was it recognized as a masterpiece by Vermeer.

(The Mauritshuis itself has three works by Vermeer – Diana and her Nymphs, View of Delft and Girl with a Pearl Earring – but its collection lacks a genre piece by the artist. That’s why the museum is delighted to have the opportunity of showing a fourth Vermeer for a time.)

National Aids Memorial in San Francisco Commemorates 25 Years Of Remembrance, Healing And Hope With Ceremony Honoring Long-time Supporters

Volunteers gather for Community Volunteer Workday; Pay tribute to friends and loved ones lost to HIV/AIDS

Twenty-five years ago a small group of San Francisco residents representing a community devastated by the AIDS epidemic gathered in a dilapidated grove in Golden Gate Park to restore it and create a serene place where people seeking healing could gather to express their collective grief through a living memorial, an AIDS Memorial.

This past week, hundreds of supporters, volunteers and community leaders came together in “The Grove” to commemorate the 25th anniversary of what is now the National AIDS Memorial. A special ceremony paid tribute the original founders and honored supporters, including the City of San Francisco, who have helped in its mission to provide, in perpetuity, a place of remembrance so that the lives of people who died from AIDS are not forgotten and their stories are known by future generations.

“Twenty-five years ago our community was ravaged by AIDS and we came together here in this Grove to heal and remember our lost friends and loved ones,” said Jack Porter, a 25-year volunteer who lost his partner Stephen Marcus to AIDS and was honored with the “Heart of the Grove” award for his years of dedication and service. “Today, this memorial has evolved into a national treasure for our entire country to remember, seek comfort and ensure that we always keep their memory alive in our hearts.”

Circle of Friends: Volunteers and supporters gather in the “Circle of Friends” at the National AIDS Memorial following a special 25th anniversary commemoration event and Community Volunteer Workday to pay tribute to lost friends and loved ones to HIV/AIDS.

The 25th anniversary tribute began with hundreds of volunteers helping landscape and plant trees and shrubbery on the grounds of the memorial, followed by a ceremony in the Circle of Friends in honor of those lost to HIV/AIDS and an emotional performance by members of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus. Community leaders in attendance included State Senator Mark Leno, San Francisco Supervisor Scott Wiener, Phil Ginsburg, General Manager, San Francisco Recreation and Park Department and Christine Pelosi, former National AIDS Memorial Board member & long-time supporter.

Unveiling of Boulder: Senator Mark Leno joins Christine Pelosi; Phil Ginsburg general manager of the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department; John Cunningham executive director of the National AIDS Memorial; Mike Shriver, chair of the board of the National AIDS Memorial; and San Francisco Supervisor Scott Wiener unveil a commemorative boulder at the National AIDS Memorial honoring the City of San Francisco as part of the 25th anniversary of the National AIDS Memorial.

Since 1991, nearly 25,000 volunteers have donated more than 150,000 hours participating in monthly Community Volunteer Workdays and other events to support the National AIDS Memorial. Every third Saturday from March to October, volunteers ranging from the very young to the elderly come together to help maintain the Grove, clearing overgrowth, reintroducing native species and planting new trees, plants and shrubs.

NAM 25th Anniversary Ceremony: (L to R) Christine Pelosi, State Senator Mark Leno, San Francisco Supervisor Scott Wiener, and John Cunningham, executive director, National AIDS Memorial.

That dedication, commitment and support set in motion passage of legislation spearheaded by U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi and signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1996 making the Grove this nation’s sole federally-designated National AIDS Memorial.

HIV: The Long View Initiative Launches With Advocates Urging Actions To Address Barriers To Long-Term Health Among People Living With HIV

A Coalition of U.S. Advocates Explores Future Health Trends and Announces Calls to Action for HIV Education, Prevention and Care in New Evidence-based Report

Last week, a Coalition of leading HIV/AIDS advocacy groups and stakeholder organizations announced the launch of HIV: The Long View with the release of an evidence-based report that examines the potential implications of future healthcare trends on HIV care and management in the United States. Members of the Coalition include the American Academy of HIV Medicine, Gay Men’s Health Crisis, HealthyWomen, National Council on Aging and National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS. In the report, the Coalition recommends several key actions necessary to help improve the outlook for the long-term health of people living with HIV. Gilead Sciences is a partner and sponsor of the initiative.

“HIV is perhaps the most ruthless public health crisis the world has ever faced, and while the most immediate, life-threatening challenges have evolved in developed nations, we cannot lose sight of the fact that the epidemic continues to grow, even in well-resourced areas,” said Kelsey Louie, Chief Executive Officer, Gay Men’s Health Crisis. “If we are going to meaningfully advance HIV education, prevention, treatment and care, it will be due to multidisciplinary collaborations like HIV: The Long View that identify and strive to help work through the complex socioeconomic and healthcare factors that currently deny a long-term healthy future to many people living with and at risk for HIV.”

The report is a result of an in-depth research process collaboratively reviewed, scrutinized and translated by the HIV: The Long View Coalition to determine a potential future state of HIV healthcare in the United States over the next two decades. The method allowed the Coalition to develop corresponding calls to action to help HIV stakeholders support the long-term health and well-being of people living with and at risk for HIV, including:

Gourmet Foods: Victoria Fine Foods Launches Four New On-Trend Sauces This Fall

Victoria Fine Foods (VFF), the #1 slow kettle-cooked premium pasta sauce manufacturer in the U.S., demonstrates their commitment to innovation and dedication to their Read Your Label campaign with the launch of four new on-trend, clean label sauces this fall.

Victoria Fine Foods Launches Four New On-Trend Sauces This Fall (PRNewsFoto/Victoria Fine Foods)

Brooklyn-based Victoria Fine Foods, founded in 1929, is committed to using only the finest ingredients and the most authentic slow kettle-cooking process for a true homemade taste. In keeping with the brand’s philosophy of Ingredients Come First(TM), they were the first major pasta sauce company to put their ingredients on the front of their premium sauce label.

Victoria’s newest sauces include:

Chef Collection – Gourmet Pasta Meals – Introducing Victoria’s restaurant-quality, delicious, healthy, cooked pasta in premium sauce. Made with clean label ingredients, you can simplify your life without compromising quality. These heat and serve meal solutions deliver all the taste you expect from Victoria, without the time. Available in two delectable varieties: Penne Marinara & Penne Alla Vodka. Sold in 24 oz Jars.

Marinara made with Avocado Oil – Victoria is launching a new premium marinara sauce with the same great taste as the original, but made with antioxidant and omega rich avocado oil. Avocado Oil provides essential fatty acids and unsaturated and Omega 6 fats. Sold in 24 oz Jars.

Pizza Sauce – Victoria is launching a new sauce made exclusively for pizza! This premium sauce features a clean label and is slow kettle-cooked with fresh, high-quality ingredients you can trust. Made without tomato paste or added sugar, it has an authentic, homemade flavor and is perfect for making pizza at home! Sold in 14 oz Jars.

“Victoria is inspired by the energy and authenticity of our hometown of Brooklyn and continues to strive to stay ahead of the latest culinary trends. What makes us different is our combination of genuine and ambitious – Italy Born. Brooklyn Raised (TM),” says Tim Shanley, CEO, Victoria Fine Foods. “These four new delicious sauces continue the Victoria tradition of using only the best, high-quality ingredients and feature the authentic homemade flavor that sets us apart. We know our consumers are looking for clean, on- trend ingredients and these sauces fit that criteria.”

Explore Santa Barbara County on a California Wines Road Trip

Wine Institute Series Offers Tips on How to Sip, Stay and Play in Wine Country

California’s beautiful wine regions offer a wide variety of wines and experiences to enjoy and are a key reason that many travelers choose the Golden State as a vacation destination. To help visitors learn more, The Wine Institute’s California Wines Road Trip series highlights different regions. This month, consider taking a trip to Santa Barbara County, a region with a 200-plus year history that was put in the spotlight by the indie hit film, Sideways, and travel magazines worldwide. Santa Barbara’s “mountains meet the sea” picture-postcard geography produces diverse micro-climates, making it possible for winegrowers to grow dozens of winegrape varieties – especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

California’s Santa Barbara County wine region, put in the spotlight by the movie, “Sideways,” is home to nearly 200 wineries. (PRNewsFoto/Wine Institute)

Santa Barbara County contains six American Viticultural Areas (AVA) and is part of the larger Central Coast AVA. Located about 90 miles north of Los Angeles, this wine region hugs the Pacific coastline and visitors can enjoy sun, scenery, excellent restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries and outdoor activities as they explore the region’s wineries.

SIP: Nearly 200 wineries call Santa Barbara County home. Browse this list of Santa Barbara County wineries or use the discovercaliforniawines.com interactive map to search wineries by amenities such as tours, gardens, picnic areas, food for purchase, concerts, art and more. The Santa Barbara County Vintners Association also features an in-depth wine country touring guide and two-for-one tasting passes for purchase online, as well as free tasting route maps to nine wine trails. These include downtown Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone urban wine trail, a dining, nightlife and arts scene where entertainment in the waterfront district is within walking distance of more than two dozen tasting rooms. Movie buffs can follow in Miles’ and Jack’s footsteps along the Sideways Wine Trail. Other wonderful wine routes include the Santa Ynez Wine Trail and Foxen Canyon Wine Trail —with beautiful estate wineries—and the town of Los Olivos, boasting 20-plus tasting rooms as well as charming shops and artisanal eats.

STAY: Those looking to stay in the Santa Barbara County wine region can choose from charming inns in the historic Danish town of Solvang or upscale boutique hotels in downtown Santa Barbara to luxurious beach resorts. Notable wine-centric hotels include Bacara Resort and Spa, The Landsby and Santa Ynez Valley Marriott.

PLAY: One “must see” is Old Mission Santa Barbara, a picturesque mission where wine was originally made by Franciscan monks two centuries ago. The site, considered one of California’s grandest missions, is the 10th of 21 built along the state’s “mission trail” and features a museum, docent-led tours and 12 acres of gardens. Stearns Wharf offers seaside restaurants, a fishing shop, old-fashioned candy store, wine tasting and shops, close to the beach where visitors can surf, play volleyball, rent bicycles, paddleboard and more. Or you can visit the historic Danish village of Solvang, known for its authentic architecture and bakeries, the latter of which you can explore on the Sweet Treats Trail. Sip and stroll along the Solvang Wine Walk to get a full taste of the town.

MAKE: A fun experience is Santa Barbara’s Market Forays, where every Saturday attendees shop for seasonal local ingredients with a chef and learn how to use them to easily create delicious meals paired with local wines. Creative wine consumers can sip and paint at The Painted Cabernet, an urban studio on State Street where an artist gives one-on-one instruction while guests enjoy local wines. Learn to make great food and wine photos while consuming the subject matter with the Eat This, Shoot That! Tour.

GROW: Santa Barbara County’s geography and climate is unique because of its transverse mountain range that runs east to west rather than north to south. Many of the vineyards sit open-mouthed to the Pacific Ocean. This maritime climate sweeps into the western part of the county with a daily influx of fog and cold ocean wind, while inland brings more sun and warmer temperatures. These diverse micro-climates produce more than 50 winegrape varieties, from Riesling, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in the west to Bordeaux and Rhone grapes in the warmer east.

EAT:  Santa Barbara serves up a good portion of farmer’s markets, celebrity chef restaurants, and wine and food events. In October, visitors can partake in the Celebration of Harvest, where nearly 150 wineries pour at the Santa Inés Mission and food purveyors and winemaker dinners abound. See the best throughout October in local cuisine, libations and culture. Other standouts include the Santa Barbara Vintners Spring Weekend in April and the California Lemon Festival in September

Visit discovercaliforniawines.com for information on wine regions, wines and wineries throughout the Golden State and for planning your trip to California wine country.  California is the number one U.S. state for wine and food tourism with dozens of distinct wine regions, 138 American Viticultural Areas and 4,600 wineries that produce 85 percent of U.S. wine. Established in 1934, The Wine Institute is the public policy association of nearly 1,000 California wineries. wineinstitute.org.

Loretta Lynn’s New Holiday Album, White Christmas Blue, Coming Friday, October 7 on Legacy Recordings

Newly-Written Title Track, “White Christmas Blue” Opens Queen of Country Music’s First Yuletide Collection in 50 Years

Album Features 12 New Studio Performances including Traditional Carols & Seasonal Pop Standards

Loretta Lynn invites you to celebrate the 2016 yuletide season with the release of her new album. White Christmas Blue, on Friday, October 7.

Cover Art (PRNewsFoto/Legacy Recordings)

The album debuts “White Christmas Blue,” a future yuletide classic newly penned by Lynn and Grammy Award winner Shawn Camp (who’s written #1 country hits for Garth Brooks, Josh Turner and Brooks & Dunn, collaborated with the legendary singer since 2007, and provides acoustic guitar and backing vocals on White Christmas Blue).

Lynn’‘s first collection of seasonal songs since 1966 (and her second release this year for Legacy), White Christmas Blue premieres 12 studio performances including new versions of two original compositions (“Country Christmas” and “To Heck with Ole Santa Claus“) which first appeared on her first Christmas album, Country Christmas; soulful interpretations of traditional carols (“Away in a Manger,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “Silent Night“); in-the-moment contemporary takes on seasonal pop standards (“Winter Wonderland,” “Frosty the Snowman,” “Jingle Bells,” “White Christmas”) and the title track. The album concludes with Loretta’s heartfelt recitation of the beloved seasonal story “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

White Christmas Blue is the celebratory successor to Loretta’s first Legacy release, Full Circle (her 40th Top 10 country album and her highest-charting album ever on the Billboard 200). At the time of Full Circle‘s release, in March 2016, it had been more than a decade since Lynn had recorded or released any new studio music. An emotional and personal journey through Christmases past, present and future, White Christmas Blue is an essential addition to any Loretta Lynn library or holiday album collection.

Like Full Circle, White Christmas Blue pays homage to Lynn‘s deepest musical roots and influences and was recorded at the Cash Cabin Studio in Hendersonville, Tennessee, produced by Patsy Lynn Russell and John Carter Cash.

White Christmas Blue is the second volume of the Cash Cabin Recordings and part of a planned multi-album deal with Legacy Recordings (a division of Sony Music Entertainment).

Loretta Lynn: White Christmas Blue Track Listing: White Christmas Blue, Country Christmas, Winter Wonderland, Away in a Manger, Blue Christmas, To Heck with Ole Santa Claus, Frosty the Snowman, Oh Come, All Ye Faithful, Jingle Bells, White Christmas, Silent Night, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas

White Christmas Blue will be released on CD, LP and digitally and is available for pre-order now at: http://smarturl.it/ll_wcb_amzn?IQid=pr.1.

White Christmas Blue is available for pre-order now:

CD: http://smarturl.it/ll_wcb_amzn?IQid=pr.2

LP: http://smarturl.it/ll_wcb_lp_amzn?IQid=pr

Digital: http://smarturl.it/ll_wcb_itns?IQid=pr

45,000 Regis Corp. Stylists Get Ready to Clip for the Cure on October 15, 2016

Company Donates $800,000 to Leading Research Centers

Regis Corporation, a leader in beauty salons and cosmetology education with brands including Supercuts, SmartStyle, MasterCuts, Regis Salons, Sassoon Salon, Cost Cutters and First Choice Haircutters, is pleased to announce its annual Clip for the Cure event will take place on Saturday, October 15, 2016. The day-long haircutting event raises funds for breast cancer research.

Regis Corporation’s Clip for the Cure. (PRNewsFoto/Evans Larson Communications) (PRNewsFoto/EVANS LARSON COMMUNICATIONS)

Guests who visit participating Regis Corp. salons in the U.S. and Canada for a haircut can be part of the effort. Each year more than 200,000 guests and 45,000 Regis Corp. stylists participate, and Regis Corp. donates 10% of proceeds from each haircut to the Regis Foundation for Breast Cancer Research.

The Regis Foundation for Breast Cancer Research funds groundbreaking research at nationally recognized centers. The focus of this research is on prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and finding a cure. In addition, the Foundation supports institutions that assist and treat patients with breast cancer. Since it was founded in 1994, the Foundation has raised more than $11 million. The donations fund ongoing research efforts to support the fight against breast cancer. In August 2016, the Foundation donated $400,000 to the Mayo Clinic and $400,000 to the Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota.

“For more than 20 years, Regis has been dedicated to funding groundbreaking research that fights breast cancer, and we are pleased to support the excellent programs at Mayo Clinic and the Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota,” said Dan Hanrahan, CEO and president of Regis Corporation.

The Foundation also supports regional and national organizations that focus on early diagnosis, prevention, treatment and finding a cure for breast cancer. For more information on Clip for the Cure, participating salons and the Regis Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, visit ClipForTheCure.org.

Geffen/UMe To Reissue Weezer’s First Six Albums On Vinyl

GROUNDBREAKING BAND’S MUCH-LOVED GEFFEN RECORDS CATALOG – WEEZER (1994 – THE BLUE ALBUM), PINKERTON (1996), WEEZER (2001 – THE GREEN ALBUM), MALADROIT (2002), MAKE BELIEVE (2005), WEEZER (2008 – THE RED ALBUM) TO BE RELEASED ON VINYL OCTOBER 28

Few bands emerged as fully formed as Weezer, the Southern California band that would quickly shake the world with its re-imagined vision of rock ‘n’ roll. With 17 million albums sold worldwide, and two LPs on Rolling Stone‘s list of most influential ever made, the L.A. quartet helmed by singer-guitarist Rivers Cuomo proved to be as popular as they are pioneering. Weezer‘s music continues to shape the sound of rock to this day, well after the release of its first album, the triple-platinum Weezer (The Blue Album), one of rock’s most auspicious debuts.

Geffen/UMe is reissuing Weezer’s first six albums on standard 140-gram vinyl on October 28. The quartet’s incredible run of Geffen Records releases – 1994’s ‘Weezer’ (The Blue Album), 1996’s ‘Pinkerton,’ 2001’s ‘Weezer’ (The Green Album), 2002’s ‘Maladroit,’ 2005’s ‘Make Believe’ and 2008’s ‘Weezer’ (The Red Album) – helped redefine the genre, mixing guitar hooks with a sense of geek-smart humor that radiated into the band’s popular live act and multitude of cutting-edge videos and visuals. (PRNewsFoto/Geffen/UMe)

Geffen/UMe is reissuing Weezer‘s first six albums on standard 140-gram vinyl on October 28. The quartet’s incredible run of Geffen Records releases – 1994’s Weezer (The Blue Album), 1996’s Pinkerton, 2001’s Weezer (The Green Album), 2002’s Maladroit, 2005’s Make Believe and 2008’s Weezer (The Red Album) – helped redefine the genre, mixing guitar hooks with a sense of geek-smart humor that radiated into the band’s popular live act and multitude of cutting-edge videos and visuals.

Like all Weezer albums – including their critically-acclaimed newest, Weezer (The White Album), released this spring – the songs on these vinyl reissues truly speak for themselves; chances are, you already know quite a lot of them, from Maladroit‘s “Keep Fishin’” (whose video epically featured the band in an episode of The Muppet Show) to Weezer (The Red Album)‘s “Pork and Beans” to Make Believe‘s Aughts-defining anthem “Beverly Hills,” and more. These vinyl reissues serve as a brilliant refresher course for the story of band who are still making an indelible mark on music today.

The news came two days before Weezer‘s dark, conflicted sophomore album, Pinkerton, celebrates its 20^th anniversary on Saturday, September 24. Almost exactly 20 years later, the record has just been certified platinum in the US for sales of 1 million records.

WEEZER (The Blue Album) (1994)

SIDE A: My Name Is Jonas, No One Else, The World Has Turned And Left Me Here, Buddy Holly, Undone – The Sweater Song, Surf Wax America

SIDE B: Say It Ain’t So, In The Garage, Holiday, Only In Dreams

PINKERTON (1996)

SIDE A: Tired of Sex, Getchoo, No Other One, Why Bother?, Across The Sea

SIDE B: The Good Life, El Scorcho, Pink Triangle, Butterfly

WEEZER (The Green Album) (2001)

SIDE A: Don’t Let Go, Photograph, Hash Pipe, Island In The Sun, Crab

SIDE B: Knock-Down Drag-Out, Smile, Simple Pages, Glorious Day, O Girlfriend

MALADROIT (2002)

SIDE A: American Gigolo, Dope Nose, Keep Fishin’, Take Control, Death And Destruction, Slob

SIDE B: Burndt Jamb, Space Rock, Slave, Fall Together, Possibilities, Love Explosion, December

MAKE BELIEVE (2005)

SIDE A: Beverly Hills, Perfect Situation, This Is Such A Pity, Hold Me, Peace, We Are All On Drugs

SIDE B: The Damage In Your Heart, Pardon Me, My Best Friend, The Other Way, Freak Me Out, Haunt You Every Day

WEEZER (The Red Album) (2008)

SIDE A: Troublemaker, The Greatest Man That Ever Lived, Pork And Beans, Heart Songs, Everybody Get Dangerous

SIDE B: Dreamin’, Thought I Knew, Cold Dark World, Automatic, The Angel And The One

All albums are available for pre-order now.

Pre-order via Amazon: https://UMe.lnk.to/WeezerLPs

Pre-order via UDiscover: http://us.udiscovermusic.com/collections/weezer

The American Heart Association Launches +color to Help Transform the American Diet

SUBWAY® Restaurants Joins the American Heart Association to Encourage All Americans To Add One More Cup of Color

In a landmark nationwide effort, the American Heart Association (AHA) has announced a new initiative called +color, focusing on the positive health impact of fruits and vegetables. The health impact of +color may be simple yet significant: It is estimated that if Americans ate the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables every day, approximately 39,900 deaths would be prevented from cardiovascular diseases, stroke and diabetes and $7.6 billion in medical costs could be saved annually.[1],[2]

American Heart Association Launches +color to Help Transform the American Diet (PRNewsFoto/American Heart Association)

The American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association are devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke – the two leading causes of death in the world. The organizations team with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based American Heart Association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. (The American Stroke Association is a division of the American Heart Association.) 

American Heart Association (PRNewsFoto/American Heart Association)

On Friday, Sept. 23, the AHA and SUBWAY® restaurants, with support from Hass Avocado Board (HAB), launched +color in New York City. This on-going initiative is designed to encourage Americans to add more fruits and vegetables to their diet and better understand the critical health benefits this change can mean.

+color is also critical to helping the AHA achieve its 2020 health impact goal of improving the health of all Americans by 20 percent by 2020. According to a 2015 study in Circulation, young adults who eat more than five daily servings of fruits and vegetables may have less atherosclerosis than those who do not. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015-2020, the average intake of fruits and vegetables for adults under 50 years of age is about half of the recommended intake ranges. Adding one more cup of fruits or vegetables per day closes the gap by approximately 50 percent.

The centerpiece of +color is an extensive series of entertaining videos, social media events and digital interactive information that make it easy to adopt these healthy changes. This can be accomplished by watching and sharing +color content, and adding more fruits or vegetables each day. As a national supporter of +color, HAB’s Fresh Avocados – Love One Today® will be a part of the launch as the official “recipe host.” HAB will help expand the initiative’s reach with avocado heart-check certified recipes and tips about the nutrition benefits of avocados.

(PRNewsFoto/American Heart Association)

“Through +color, we’ll empower communities and consumers of all ages, especially millennials, to eat more fruit and vegetables. We want to push the perceived limits and perceptions around what people think is healthy to what is actually going to help them improve their diet. It’s about adding colorful, nutritious and vitamin-packed fruit and vegetables to meals instead of choosing unhealthier options,” stated Rachel Johnson, Ph.D., MPH, RD, Professor of Nutrition, The University of Vermont and Past Chair, American Heart Association Nutrition Committee. “It’s about showing America how easy it is to get more of these vital foods into their diet each day and how easy it is to share this information everywhere they go with everyone they know. This information has the power to help save lives.”

Behr Paint Introduces 2017 Color Currents, The New Standard in Annual Design Forecasting

Inspired by individuality and self-expression, this year’s collection of on-trend colors create a sense of Comfort, Composure and Confidence

Each year, the team of color experts at Behr immerse themselves in an extensive process to curate the latest hues by examining trends in art, product design, fashion and architecture. This forecast, paired with the modern ways in which people live, results in the development of the BEHR Color Currents, an all-new collection of on-trend paint colors. The 20 distinct hues of 2017 are available now at The Home Depot®, along with an exclusive in-store brochure that inspires consumers to incorporate the hues into both their indoor and outdoor living spaces.

“Paint is more than just a color; it is a method of communication. Color conveys emotion and allows people the freedom to express themselves and be who they really are,” said Erika Woelfel, Vice President of Color and Creative Services at Behr. “In today’s busy world, home is a safe haven, a retreat for living in the moment or

The 20 distinct hues of BEHR Color Currents 2017 are available now at The Home Depot®, along with an exclusive in-store brochure that inspires consumers to incorporate the hues into both their indoor and outdoor living spaces.

welcoming guests for a weekend visit. That’s why our 2017 colors are time-honored and heart-warming, just like any homecoming should be.”

Behr takes a non-traditional approach to color forecasting. Instead of choosing just one dominant color of the year, its team of experts create a collection of hues that are curated into separate themes, empowering individuals to choose colors and color combinations that speak to their moods, emotions and personalities. For 2017, the colors center around three overarching lifestyle themes: Comfortable, Composed and Confident.

“We’re constantly innovating from both a product and color standpoint to keep DIYers on the forefront of design,” said Woelfel. “The Color Currents are a collection of new colors that reflect the ways consumers are living, interacting and expressing themselves.”

At The Home Depot, consumers can learn more about the 20 new hues and get inspiration from the BEHR Color Currents 2017 brochure. This brochure features detailed décor themes, as well as design and decorating tips, to help consumers visualize spaces both inside and outside their home. Experienced, friendly associates will also be on hand to assist DIYers with color selection, samples and determining the best product for their unique project.

Behr Color Currents 2017: Palettes Designed to Elicit Comfort, Composure and Confidence

BEHR Color Currents 2017 – Living Room, Comfortable Palette

The Comfortable Palette features soft, tranquil and versatile colors. They work well for small spaces and help open up areas that do not get a lot of natural light. Recently, pastels have transformed from sweet to mineral matte shades. Light blue can effortlessly become the focal point when supported by neutral hues on the floor and furniture. These pale hues can be energized with bright accents of yellow, orange or bold green. Comfortable BEHR colors include

BEHR Color Currents 2017 – Foyer, Comfortable Palette

• Close Knit T17-01
• Gold Hearted T17-02
• Peek-a-Blue T17-04
• Sepia Filter T17-03
• Life is a Peach T17-05
• Everything’s Rosy T17-06
• Balanced T17-07
  

  BEHR Color Currents 2017 – Bedroom, Composed Palette

The Composed palette consists of colors with depth and intensity. Its hues are for those who desire a stronger color experience. Deep, earth-inspired tones and rich jeweled shades provide an excellent background on which other colors can be layered. These robust shades are reminiscent of traditional grandeur, but offer a contemporary look when combined with gray, black and white. Charcoal gray proves it can happily dominate a space, creating a quiet and relaxing mood. Gray can also provide a modern effect when applied as one color to walls, trim and ceilings. Composed BEHR colors include:

BEHR Color Currents 2017 -Dining Room, Composed Palette

• Polished Aqua T17-08
• Laid Back Gray T17-09
• Shades On T17-10
• Silent Sands T17-11
• Wanderlust T17-12
• In the Woods T17-13
• Artful Magenta T17-14
  

  BEHR Color Currents 2017 – Children’s Bedroom, Confident Palette

Baume & Mercier Introduces New Ladies Collection: The Petite Promesse Collection

Stylish, New Watches Give Women More Options In A Small, Feminine Size

Petite Promesse, the newest ladies collection from luxury Swiss watchmaker, Baume & Mercier, is now available in stores and online. Feminine and striking in its design, the 22mm Petite Promesse case features a diamond bezel, mother of pearl dial, and two diamonds at the 6 and 12 o’clock indexes. It is finished with a chic and colorful wrap-around leather or wrap-around steel bracelet. Its petite size blurs the lines between jewelry and watch and is sure to appeal to women looking to make a fashion statement.

Petite Promesse, the newest ladies collection from luxury Swiss watchmaker, Baume & Mercier.

Baume & Mercier introduces the Petite Promesse Collection after the successful launch of the core ladies collection, Promesse in 2014. Fred Martel, President of Baume & Mercier North America shares, “Promesse was an instant best-seller for us and illustrated that the ladies watch market is in need of new, wearable designs in distinctive sizes and fresh colors. Petite Promesse delivers an every day watch that can be worn to the office, but also dressed up with bracelets for the evening. It’s the perfect addition to our current assortment and is a great value for a Swiss made timepiece from a reputable brand such as ours.“

Petite Promesse is available with stainless steel (10289), bright blue leather (10288) or vivid orange leather (10290) straps, offering women bold color options as well. The interplay of oval and round between case and bezel infuses the watch with a subtle beauty to create a unique, modern look. Three watches, each with a strong personality provides many possibilities given your style, character or current mood.

The Petite Promesse Collection ranges in price from $2,450-$3,300 and is available now in stores and online. To view the full Baume & Mercier Collection, visit www.baume-et-mercier.com.

Universal Music Enterprises To Reissue Beck’s Entire DGC/Geffen/Interscope Catalog On Vinyl

First Releases Include Odelay, Sea Change And Guero On October 28

Multi-Grammy-Winning Masterpiece Odelay Celebrates 20th Anniversary This Year

This fall, UMe will begin to reissue Beck’s entire envelope-pushing DGC/Geffen/Interscope catalog on vinyl, beginning on October 28 with the trifecta of his 1996 GRAMMY(R) Award-winning single LP game-changer, ‘Odelay,’ 2002’s beautiful, brokenhearted, ‘Sea Change,’ and 2005’s tour de force, ‘Guero.’ (PRNewsFoto/UMe)

Since introducing himself to the world in 1994 with his genre-defying, multi-platinum debut, Mellow Gold, Beck has blazed a path into the future while simultaneously foraging through the past. Throughout his singular career he has utilized all manners and eras of music, blurring boundaries and shattering expectations with each album. From the world-tripping atmospherics of 1998’s Mutations and the florescent funk of 1999’s Midnite Vultures through the somber reflections of 2002’s Sea Change, 2005’s platinum tour de force Guero and 2006’s sprawling The Information, no Beck record has ever sounded like its predecessor.

This fall, Universal Music Enterprises will begin to reissue Beck‘s entire envelope-pushing DGC/Geffen/Interscope catalog on vinyl, beginning on October 28 with the trifecta of his 1996 GRAMMY® Award-winning single LP game-changer, Odelay, 2002’s beautiful, brokenhearted, Sea Change, and 2005’s Guero, which saw Beck reunite with the Dust Brothers. Sea Change will be released as a double LP while Guero will be made available for the first time ever as a single LP. Mellow Gold, Mutations, Midnight Vultures,The Information and Modern Guilt will be announced at a later date. Pre-order: Odelay, Sea Change, Guero

Originally released 20 years ago on June 18, 1996 on DGC, Odelay was Beck’s breakthrough follow-up to his platinum bow, Mellow Gold. Selling more than two million copies in the U.S., the double-platinum-certified Odelay featured classics that loom large in Beck’s live sets to this day, including “Where It’s At,” “Devils Haircut” and “The New Pollution.” Odelay won two GRAMMY® Awards in 1997, Best Alternative Music Album and Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for “Where It’s At,” and was Beck’s first album to be nominated for Album of the Year–the top honor his most recent album Morning Phase took home last year. Produced by Beck with collaborators the Dust Brothers, Mario Caldato Jr., Brian Paulson, Tom Rothrock and Rob Schnapf, Odelay continued to demonstrate and expand upon Beck’s eclectic stylistic palette. It was universally praised upon its release, named Album of the Year in both Rolling Stone and the prestigious Village Voice Pazz & Jop critics’ poll, as well as the U.K. New Musical Express‘ critics’ poll, where the album represented Beck’s platinum breakthrough in England. In 1998, Q magazine readers voted Odelay one of the greatest albums of all time, while Rolling Stone ranked it in its 2003 list of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time,” and #9 on its list of the “100 Best Albums of the ’90s.” (Pre-order Odelay: https://UMe.lnk.to/BeckOdelayLP)

Holiday 2016: Country Icons Glen Campbell And Merle Haggard’s Classic Holiday Albums Available Once Again On Vinyl

Campbell’s That Christmas Feeling and Haggard’s Christmas Present Released for the First Time in Decades

Universal Music Enterprises is releasing two classic country Christmas albums on September 23 when it reissues Glen Campbell’s ‘That Christmas Feeling’ and Merle Haggard’s ‘Christmas Present’ on vinyl. Each was recorded at the height of the legendary artists’ popularity and displays all the unique qualities that made each Country Music Hall of Fame members. (PRNewsFoto/Universal Music Enterprises)

No genre captures the holiday season in all its many facets as well as country music. The genre’s storytelling songwriting style is perfect for relaying all the many emotions Christmas and the holiday season can bring, from joy and seasonal cheer to loneliness and sorrow. Especially when that song is in the hands of a master.

Universal Music Enterprises has made two country holiday classics available on vinyl for the first time in decades: Glen Campbell‘s That Christmas Feeling and Merle Haggard‘s Christmas Present. Each was recorded at the height of the legendary artists’ popularity and displays all the unique qualities that made each Country Music Hall of Fame members held in high esteem. Released together, these albums provide a timeless holiday listening experience that will appeal to fans of all ages.

Released in 1968 in the midst of a run of seven straight No. 1 country albums – and around the same time as double platinum Wichita Lineman – That Christmas Feeling captures the earnest Campbell at the height of his powers and popularity (True Grit would be released the next year). Known as a guitarist without peer and a singer with perfect pitch, timing and flair, Campbell helped expand the definition of music and broaden the appeal of the country genre from rural areas to the suburbs. His first Christmas album, available on vinyl for the first time in 40 years, exemplifies all these traits and includes the hit “Christmas Is For Children” and his take on “Blue Christmas” and Willie Nelson’s “Pretty Paper.” (Pre-order That Christmas Feeling: https://UMe.lnk.to/lEsmY)

2016 Holiday: Justin Bieber’s Classic Christmas Album, Under The Mistletoe, Now Available On Vinyl For First Time

Justin Bieber‘s Christmas classic, Under The Mistletoe, is now available on vinyl for the first time ever, just in time for the holidays. Originally released in 2011 as Bieber’s second studio album, the 11-track LP is pressed on standard black vinyl and comes inside a jacket with a matte finish and 12-page booklet. The album showcases Bieber’s unique spin on holiday standards alongside original songs and features Usher, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, The Band Perry and Busta Rhymes. (Order your copy here: http://smarturl.it/UnderMistletoeLP)

Justin Bieber’s Christmas classic, ‘Under The Mistletoe,’ is now available on vinyl for the first time ever, just in time for the holidays. Originally released in 2011 as Bieber’s second studio album, the 11-track LP is pressed on standard black vinyl and comes inside a jacket with a matte finish and 12-page booklet. The album showcases Bieber’s unique spin on holiday standards alongside original songs and features Usher, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, The Band Perry and Busta Rhymes. (PRNewsFoto/Universal Music Enterprises)

Upon its release in 2011, Under The Mistletoe debuted at #1 on the US Billboard 200 Chart and earned Bieber the distinction of having the first Christmas album by a male artist to debut at #1. Coming on the heels of the smash success of his debut album and follow-up EP, the album sold nearly a quarter of a million units its opening week and resulted in his third #1 album and third platinum- selling album. It also made him the first solo artist to have three #1 albums before his 18^th birthday. The album was the eleventh best-selling release of the year and sold 1,245,000 copies in a few short months. The record also debuted within the top 10 in Australia, the Netherlands, Norway and Spain. It has currently sold more than 1.5 million copies.

Produced by Kuk Harrell, the album pairs original songs alongside inspired interpretations of holiday favorites – “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town,” “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)” with Usher, “Drummer Boy” with Busta Rhymes, “Silent Night” and Bieber’s duet with Mariah Carey on her modern classic “All I Want For Christmas Is You (SuperFestive!).” Eight of the 11 songs were co-written by Bieber just for the album, including the hit single “Mistletoe,” co-written and produced by hit making Canadian duo The Messengers (Nasri and Adam Messinger). “Home This Christmas” features The Band Perry while “Fa La La” is a collaboration with Boyz II Men.

SIDE ONE

• Only Thing I Ever Get For Christmas
• Mistletoe
• The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire) ft. Usher
• Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
• Fa La La ft. Boyz II Men

SIDE TWO

• All I Want For Christmas Is You (SuperFestive!) Duet With Mariah Carey
• Drummer Boy ft. Busta Rhymes
• Christmas Eve
• All I Want Is You
• Home This Christmas ft. The Band Perry
• Silent Night

ALEX AND ANI Unveils Exclusive Jewelry Collection Featuring Original Copper Preserved from the 1980’s Restoration of The Statue of Liberty

After nearly 100 years of standing guard over New York City Harbor, The Statue of Liberty underwent a much-needed restoration from 1984-1986. Stainless steel armature bars replaced her original iron frame and copper supports. The original copper was then preserved and stored for over 30 years, awaiting a new purpose. In a history-making unveiling, the copper preserved from the Statue of Liberty‘s centennial restoration is now available to the public through a jewelry and accessory line. ALEX AND ANI announces the groundbreaking launch of its LIBERTY COPPER Collection, supporting the work of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation.

(PRNewsFoto/ALEX AND ANI)

This limited edition collection was created in partnership with The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc., and includes 26 pieces available now. It features an exact replica of Lady Liberty’s torch, made from her preserved copper.

The signature meaning card that accompanies each LIBERTY COPPER Collection purchase reads, “Bearing her torch…we become Lady Liberty’s movement of light and hope. When we CARRY LIGHT, we ignite the light in others, and create one light indivisible.“

(PRNewsFoto/ALEX AND ANI)

“The biggest honor of my life is to take her message and make it literally, physically attached to each and every one of us,” says ALEX AND ANI Founder, CEO, and Chief Creative Officer Carolyn Rafaelian. “LIBERTY ENLIGHTENING THE WORLD. That’s who she is. She holds the torch to light our path.”

With this, ALEX AND ANI encourages consumers to draw inspiration from Lady Liberty, and recognize the light they bring to the world. The company is asking people to answer the question, “What do you CARRY LIGHT for?” — for example, their causes, passions, art, the Earth, loved ones — then share their response via social media, inspiring others to do the same with the hashtag #CARRYLIGHT.

The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded in 1982 to raise funds for and oversee the historic restorations of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, working in partnership with the National Park Service/U.S. Department of the Interior. In addition to restoring the monuments, the Foundation created a museum in the Statue’s base and the world-class Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, The American Immigrant Wall of Honor®, the American Family Immigration History Center® and The Peopling of America® Center completed in 2015. Its endowment has funded over 200 projects at the islands.

“We always knew there was a greater purpose for these preserved materials,” said Stephen A. Briganti, President and CEO of The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation. “This collaboration with ALEX AND ANI will bring the Statue’s message and spirit directly into the lives of people around the world. We couldn’t be more pleased.”

(ALEX and ANI also released a short film celebrating the history of the Statue of Liberty and the collection. You can watch the video here.)

The collection is now available at ALEX AND ANI stores nationwide, as well as alexandani.com, and authorized retailers. For more information about the signature collection, visit alexandani.com. For more information about The Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, visit www.LibertyEllisFoundation.org.

The Paris Visitors and Convention Bureau Releases Promotional Film to Boost Visitor Numbers in Paris

The Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, working in conjunction with with the Paris City Council and the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP), today unveiled a film promoting Paris, which they hope will contribute to boosting tourist numbers. Since the attacks of November 2015, the number of foreign visitors to The City of Lights has fallen to record lows. The City of Paris, the Government and economic players (both private and otherwise) in Paris decided to join forces to put together a recovery plan of more than €2M, which was launched at the beginning of the summer. (Paris is the world’s leading tourism destination and tourism, a vitally important economic sector, accounts for more than 13% of the city’s GDP and 500,000 jobs across the region.)

Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de Paris Logo (PRNewsFoto/Office du Tourisme)

Among the measures implemented is a promotional film, directed by Jalil Lespert, which enables the public to see the many attractions of the capital. It highlights the vibrancy of the city of Paris in 2016 through portraits of Parisians and visitors. It will be shown from next week onwards in France and abroad. It was unveiled this past Thursday by Anne Hidalgo and will be shown from next week onwards in France and abroad, thanks to cooperation of numerous partners across the board. (Watch The Film Here.)

‘When I was told about this project, I was delighted to pay tribute to my city. I was born here, I grew up here and I still live here today’, states Lespert. ‘I wanted to film the city’s streets, shops, cooking but more than anything I wanted to pay tribute to the stories that can be created here. I wanted to show Paris in a different way, a multifaceted Paris that conveys as many emotions and atmospheres as there are districts’, he explains.

The film offers a quick tour of the capital. To the music Just Need Your Love by Nice-based French band Hyphen Hyphen, it reveals Paris through its monuments, shops, gastronomy and also its hidden treasures and Parisians, on cafe terraces and along the Canal Saint-Martin.

‘Paris is a unique and magical city for so many reasons, whether because of its culture, fashion, gastronomy … We are resolutely determined to reaffirm Paris’s vocation to welcome visitors from all over the world. Paris, a resilient city, has known how to bounce back and today invites you to come and discover an innovative and vibrant city. Paris will always be Paris’, emphasized Hidalgo.

Her deputy for tourism, Jean-François Martins, outlined the distribution plan: the fleet of Air France planes, Paris airports, and those managed by the brand, Decaux screens in Milan, Shanghai, Tokyo, New York, Galeries Lafayette (in the Haussmann stores), Berlin and Beijing will all notably be showing the film in the next few weeks.

The Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau (Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de Paris) was created in 1971 by the Paris City Council and the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry as a non-profit making association ruled by the French law of 1 July 1901. Its missions, as stated above, are to welcome and provide visitors with information; to promote the capital’s attractions, in France and abroad; and to provide assistance to Paris tourism professionals.

To welcome and provide our visitors with information, the Bureau runs five tourist information centers in the most popular parts of the capital. Some 25 reception staff reply in 12 languages to tourism-related questions about Paris and the Paris region.

The website PARISINFO extends and complements the role of the centers’ reception teams. An international portal for tourism in Paris, this virtual ‘Bureau’ is presented in four languages (French, English, German, and Spanish) and partially translated in seven others. It offers every type of useful information for an enjoyable stay in Paris.

In order to provide a comprehensive service, the Bureau’s information centres and website combine information and advice with commercial products relating to accommodation, transport, culture and leisure.

Working together with Parisian tourism professionals, the Bureau promotes Paris leisure and business tourism to tour operators and the media, advocates of the Paris destination. It develops a range of dedicated tools for them, notably the websites ‘press’ and ‘professionals’.

It elaborates and implements action plans targeted at its established markets and at markets with a high potential. To this effect, the Bureau organizes targeted operations (events, workshops) and takes part in trade shows, in France and abroad. In Paris, it offers familiarization tours for the press and tour operators. It replies to requests for help in the organization of company events. Finally, in synergy with the Paris City Council and the Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIP), the Bureau supports the capital’s candidacies for the hosting of association congresses.

A platform for networking, dialogue and for creating partnerships for tourism sector professionals, the Bureau federates some 1,800 professional members. It promotes their services on the website PARISINFO, and involves them in themed initiatives, which it pilots with its institutional and private-sector partners. It monitors developments in the tourism sector and relays strategic information back to the industry as a whole, notably via its web space ‘Parisian Professionals’.

Travel & Culture: All Eyes Are On The New Parisian Cultural Season

Get Out Your Diaries and Calendars, The List is Long!

New and Major Events are Always Synonymous With the New Parisian Cultural Season and Autumn 2016 has an Expected Stellar Line-up.

While it is true that Paris is gearing up for the Spring/Summer 2017 Paris Fashion Week Shows, The City is more than just about high fashion. It’s a foodie paradise, one of the top cultural centers of the world and one of the top tourist destinations in Europe and the world at large. From Rembrandt at the Musée Jacquemart-André to Hergé at the Grand Palais, the opening of new museums and celebrated shows, Paris pulls out all the stops to charm Parisians and visitors this fall and early winter. The following list was compiled and provided by The Paris Visitors and Convention Bureau (Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de Paris) whose mission it is to welcome and provide visitors with information; to promote the capital’s attractions, in France and abroad; and to provide assistance to Paris tourism professionals.

Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de Paris Logo (PRNewsFoto/Office du Tourisme)

OUTSTANDING EXHIBITIONS

From 14 September to 12 February, Henri Fantin-Latour has top billing at the Musée du Luxembourg – a retrospective that has been eagerly-awaited since the previous one in 1982. At the Musée du Louvre, the public can admire the sculptures, drawings and prints of Edme Bouchardon in a monograph exhibition. More contemporary, the Centre Pompidou will celebrate René Magritte around questions of likeness and realism (September 21, 2016 – January 23, 2017). Belgium will also be under the spotlight with the exhibition Hergé at the Grand Palais (September 28, 2016 – January 15, 2017).

Modern art fans should pencil in a visit to the Musée d’Art moderne de la Ville to see the Bernard Buffet exhibition (October 14, 2016 to February 26, 2017), to the Fondation Louis Vuitton for its key exhibition, Icons of Modern Art. The Shchukin Collection, from the Musée de l’Ermitage – Musée Pouchkine (October 22, 2016 – March 6, 2017), and Cy Twombly at the Centre Pompidou (November 30, 2016 – April 24, 2017). And the Espace Dalí presents a dialogue between the great artist Salvador Dali and Joann Sfar now through 31 March 31, 2017.

Herge exhibition :The Grand Palais pays tribute to Georges Remi, better known as Herge. Considered to be the father of the European comic-strip, the creator of Tintin sold some 250 million comic-strip books during his career and has been translated into one hundred or so languages.This retrospective exhibition with original plates is an opportunity to admire the work of the Belgian artist, but also to find out more about Herge the person, through the many archive images and testimonies. (PRNewsFoto/Office du Tourisme et des Congrè)

NEW CULTURAL VENUES

After 8 months of closure, the Musée Maillol is reopening, under the aegis of Culturespaces, with an exhibition by the famous artist Ben (now through January 15). This should renew the genre and attract a new public. Early October will see the opening of Art 42, the first museum of street art, which will be free and permanent, and which will bring together more than 150 works, in the 17th arrondissement. The opening is an important step towards the promotion of urban art, a subject dear to Parisians, which could gain recognition as a discipline apart.

MAJOR FESTIVE EVENTS 

Staple events of the autumn season unveil their new program and are set to win over numerous visitors again. Towards the end of September, there is the 6^th Fête de la Gastronomie which takes place from 23 to 25 September, and which offers a rich program of special events (cooking classes, walks, new meals, etc.). And on 25 September, the Car Free Day, launched in 2015, takes on a greater dimension this year with an area five times larger! The Grape Harvest in Montmartre livens up the streets of the Butte, from 5 to 9 October, for its … 83rd edition. Not forgetting Nuit Blanche which will celebrate its 10th anniversary on the theme of love on October 1^st. There will be a trail along the Seine with performance art and surprising artistic installations for the public.

Nuit Blanche in ParisAs the days shorten and autumn turns to winter, the Nuit Blanche event in Paris offers an opportunity to see the city in a new light. For once special night, the city’s streets are teeming with people of all ages, lit by moonlight and by strange lights, works of art become the focal point. (PRNewsFoto/Office du Tourisme et des Congrè)

Gilt.com Celebrates Stylish Living with New Fall Brand Campaign, #GiltLife

Gilt.com, the innovative online shopping destination, announces the debut of #GiltLife, a 360-degree brand campaign that captures the thrill of enjoying life in style. As part of the campaign, Alessandra Ambrosio, Kate Bosworth, and Marcus Samuelsson will be featured in custom video spots that capture each living their own #GiltLife. The multi-channel campaign includes four video spots, 17 campaign images, sponsored content, and a dynamic pop-up townhouse in New York City.

Gilt Groupe logo (PRNewsFoto/Gilt) (PRNewsFoto/Gilt)

Gilt (www.gilt.com) is an innovative online shopping retailer offering its members special access to the most inspiring lifestyle merchandise and experiences – all at exceptional prices. Gilt is a daily destination for discovery of the most coveted brands and products, including fashion and accessories for women, men, and children; home décor; and unique activities in select cities and destinations.

“Gilt is a destination for the total life—we offer our members the best of fashion, beauty, home, local activities, and travel. We’ve evolved the flash sale model to more seamlessly showcase unique lifestyle content, merchandise and experiences, so that our members can shop for a stylish life in just a few clicks,” said Jonathan Greller, President of Gilt. “We are thrilled to launch the #GiltLife campaign as a vehicle to present Gilt as an expert curator of an inspiring and colorful lifestyle.“

The first video spot focuses on three young women embarking on a road trip to a country house, where they meet up with friends of all ages to play bocce ball, savor an outdoor dinner, take group photos and enjoy the outdoors. Each person dons a different eye-catching ensemble, showcasing the range of styles and merchandise offered on Gilt.

Additional video spots will be released on a rolling basis starting Thursday, Sept. 29 featuring Actress Kate Bosworth, Monday, Oct. 3 featuring Chef Marcus Samuelsson, and finally on Wednesday, Oct 5 featuring Model Alessandra Ambrosio. Each spot grants an intimate glimpse into their lives. All three tastemakers have also curated collections featuring their favorite fashions, home décor, and local experiences, which will launch in tandem with their video spots, on Gilt and Gilt City.

In New York City, the campaign will come to life through an interactive pop-up space, the #GiltLife House. This luxury, four-story townhouse will showcase the brand’s varied lifestyle offerings through a series of captivating events tied to fashion, food, fitness, family fun, weddings, beauty and wellness, and travel. These intimate experiences, including classes, exhibitions, and performances, will take place from Friday, Sept. 30 through Saturday, Oct. 8. Members can buy event tickets on a first-come, first-served basis on GiltCity.com beginning Tuesday, Sept. 27. Products and experiences highlighted in the space will be available for purchase on Gilt.com beginning Thursday, Sept. 29.

Brands and partners featured within the #GiltLife House include: Bermuda Tourism Authority, BULLDOG London Dry Gin, Crayola, exhale, Fiddler on the Roof, Chef Chris Fischer, The Prisoner Wine Company, Safavieh, SCOPE Art Show, Sony Entertainment & RED Distribution (musical performances), and Chef Michael White and Altamarea Group.

The #GiltLife campaign video spots are running on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, YouTube and in native advertising. The campaign imagery is featured in out-of-home NYC street furniture and on Facebook and Instagram. Sponsored content will run on national and New York-specific fashion and lifestyle digital outlets.

Gilt is part of the Hudson’s Bay Company portfolio of brands.

Annenberg Space For Photography Announces Lectures And Events To Accompany New Exhibition, IDENTITY: TIMOTHY GREENFIELD-SANDERS THE LIST SERIES

The Annenberg Space for Photography announced its complementary programming for IDENTITY: Timothy Greenfield-Sanders The List Portraits, the new exhibit on view at the Photography Space through February 26, 2017. The upcoming Iris Nights lecture series and other special events also explore matters of identity and/or the art of photography. IDENTITY is comprised of 151 photos from the celebrated photographer’s List Series (The Black List, The Latino List, The Women’s List and The Out List) as well as new addition The Trans List. Many of the Iris Nights lecturers were featured in one of Greenfield-Sanders’ lists.

Filmmaker/photographer Timothy Greenfield-Sanders is director and producer of “American Masters: The Women’s List.” Photo Credit: ©Timothy Greenfield-Sanders

Recent events in our nation have amplified conversations about inequality, oppression and prejudice. These issues often relate to the first-hand experiences of the cultural pioneers photographed for Greenfield-Sanders‘ List Series, including those who will speak at Iris Nights events. The series highlights breakthroughs for groups of people that have historically been marginalized and underrepresented. It also celebrates its subjects’ remarkable accomplishments; each is a shining example in their community who serves as an ally and leader for minorities, often in the face of adversity.

Photo Credit: ©Timothy Greenfield-Sanders

Iris Nights offers audiences the opportunity to learn firsthand about the experiences and life journeys of the portrait subjects as well as top photographers, all in the intimate environment of Skylight Studios. Other Skylight programming surrounding the IDENTITY exhibition features similarly themed lectures and hands-on workshops over the next three months, including a photographers’ field trip to capture images of professional dancers. For more information and to make reservations, click here.

PROGRAMMING HIGHLIGHTS

September 23 – Timothy Greenfield-Sanders

The acclaimed portrait photographer discusses the overarching themes of his work and other aspects of his life and career.

September 29 – Alok Vaid-Menon

The dynamic writer/activist explores the implications of visual representation for trans and gender-non-conforming people who use their work as mixed-media performance artists to contemplate what it means to live outside gender.

October 6 – Nick Adams

The longtime-GLAAD representative discusses his experiences as a transgender man working with Hollywood to create more authentic portrayals of transgender people, and explain why improving media images is so critical for the transgender community.

October 8 – #BlaxicansOfLA: Telling Our Story

Photographer and documentary filmmaker Walter Thompson-Hernandez talks about his work on the #BlaxicansOfLA project, which showcases “Blaxicans” – representative of the two largest ethnic minority groups in Los Angeles – and challenges viewers to explore racial identities in more inclusive ways.

October 13 – Art Streiber

This presentation is a look behind the scenes at some of the more complex editorial shoots that the portrait photographer has undertaken for magazines such as ESPN, Vanity Fair, Entertainment Weekly and The New York Times Magazine.

October 20 – Ruddy Roye

Hailed as one of the greatest street photographers working today, Ruddy Roye discusses his career in photojournalism and his editorial and environmental portraits, which often focus on the raw and gritty lives of people in his native Jamaica.

October 27 – Faye Wattleton

The esteemed activist and executive delves into her personal journey and the steps necessary to advance women’s rights and status in society in the 21st Century.

October 29 – iO Tillet Wright Lecture and Book Signing

The artist, activist and TV personality hosts a lecture on his gender-and-identity-oriented photography and book signing to promote Darling Days, his inspiring new memoir about growing up at the intersection of punk, poverty, heroin and art.

October 30 – 15 Things You Can Do to Get Represented by a Gallery

Daniel Miller, director of the Duncan Miller Gallery and founder of YourDailyPhotograph.com, leads a no-nonsense seminar for upcoming artists on developing their careers, understanding the business of selling their artwork and gaining gallery representation.

November 3 – Beverly Johnson

The “Jackie Robinson of modeling” discusses her pioneering career in fashion and expand on powerful stories told in her book, The Face That Changed It All.

November 5-6 – Two-Day Documentary Photography Workshop with Jon Lowenstein

The Postcards from Ferguson and NOOR Images photographer teaches a hands-on workshop on alternative approaches to photography, audience-building and effective social media usage, culminating in a one-on-one evaluation of students’ work.

The Peninsula Beijing: An Imperial Rebirth

The newly unveiled renovation of The Peninsula Beijing marks the latest chapter in The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels’ (HSH) long tradition of hospitality excellence in China. With a front row seat in the capital city, HSH’s hotels have witnessed the remarkable transition of China into an economic superpower.

A History of Excellence in the Chinese Capital

The Peninsula Beijing – Façade

The imperial rebirth of The Peninsula Beijing marks a new beginning for Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels in Beijing. The story began almost a century ago when HSH, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2016, assumed the management of the Grand Hotel des Wagons-Lits in Beijing in 1922.

Later, in 1981 HSH was invited by the Chinese Government to manage China’s first internationally managed joint-venture hotel, the Jianguo Hotel. Originally designed by pre-eminent architect K.Y. Cheung, The Peninsula Beijing opened in 1989 as The Palace Hotel, and was re-branded as The Peninsula Beijing in 2006, always occupying a space as the finest luxury hotel in China and a pioneer of contemporary design and luxury.

The Peninsula Beijing – Forecourt

Among The Peninsula’s many achievements since opening, The Peninsula Arcade was the first luxury shopping arcade in China when it opened in 1990. Many of the world’s most celebrated connoisseurs of the art of luxury, including Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Hermes, opened their flagship China stores here.

Located in central Beijing, just a short walk from Tiananmen Square and the city’s historic cultural venues, The Peninsula Beijing has welcomed the world to Beijing and Beijing to the world for more than a quarter of a century, arguably the most exciting period in the nation’s 5,000-year history.

An Imperial Inspiration

The RMB 890 million (US$123 million) renovation of The Peninsula Beijing was conceived in 2013 by celebrated Hong Kong designer, and long-term Peninsula collaborator, Henry Leung of CAP Atelier. The inspiration behind the rebirth of The Peninsula Beijing is informed by the Middle Kingdom’s opulent imperial palaces and tranquil gardens, which provided a serene oasis for Chinese Emperors and nobility to meditate and relax.

Construction of the new Peninsula Beijing began in late 2015, and the project has been completed in phases to keep the hotel operational throughout the renovation period, making the magnitude of this project larger than any other that the group has undertaken. More than 600 workers were on site at the hotel during peak construction times, and more than 40 suppliers, designers, artisans, engineers and contractors came together to deliver this stunning transformation.

The history of the Middle Kingdom is one of astounding beauty; of scenic landscapes, remarkable architecture, exquisite art and unique cultural traditions. This spectacular and diverse land is the inspiration behind the reinvention of The Peninsula Beijing. Some of China’s finest artisans were commissioned to restyle the hotel using timeless luxury materials that provide guests with an authentic sense of China as a destination.

Whilst modern China continues to develop at breath-taking speed, The Peninsula Beijing remains mindful of preserving local heritage, culture and traditions – a trait that is evident throughout the hotel. By reviving imperial Chinese architecture, design and artisanal expertise from across the centuries, combined with modern Chinese art and proprietary Peninsula technology and service, The Peninsula Beijing upholds China’s noble traditions of artisanship and innovation, providing guests with an authentic sense of destination. The first allocation of restyled rooms became available to guests in August 2016, and the hotel renovation will be fully completed in early 2017.

Presenting the Most Spacious Guestrooms in Beijing

Chinese artistic expression extends across every floor the hotel, including the restyled guestrooms and suites. Designer Henry Leung has adopted a contemporary take on Chinese culture and heritage as the design concept for the new rooms and suites, ranging from the classical shapes and motifs of the furniture to the Chinese calligraphy painting-inspired fish mosaic in the bathrooms.

The Peninsula Beijing – Deluxe Room Living room and work desk

The Peninsula Beijng – Deluxe Room Twin Bed

With guest comfort and convenience being at the center of the reconstruction, the hotel’s original 525 rooms and suites have been reduced and re-imagined to just 230 suite-style rooms, each offering a separate bedroom, living room, bathroom and dressing room. With standard room at an average of 65 square meters, the standard rooms are now the largest in Beijing, and among the most spacious in China. They are also the most personalized guestrooms in the world, with proprietary in-room technology delivering 11 languages at the touch of a fingertip, and paperless hotel and city information and services just a click away. Each room has its own self-contained ample dressing area with a valet box and nail dryer, while guests also have the added benefit of complimentary VOIP calls and WiFi.

The Peninsula Beijing – Beijing Suite Living Room

The Peninsula Beijing – Beijing Suite Living Room

The Peninsula Beijing takes suites to the next level of space and freedom. A collection of 61 suites offers inspired design and technological innovations to become the most sought-after guest accommodations in Beijing. In fact, suites comprise 25 percent of the hotel inventory – the highest percentage in The Peninsula group, and among the highest percentage for a luxury hotel in Beijing. The hotel’s stunning theme suites include The Peninsula Suite – styled after a Chinese aristocrat’s home – and 17 re-imagined Beijing Suites, while the Loft Collection of duplex rooms offers a chic and sophisticated twist on urban living.

The Peninsula Beijing – Beijing Suite Living Room

The Peninsula Beijing – Beijing Suite Master Bedroom

A loft-style collection of duplex rooms on the top floor of the hotel offers a chic and sophisticated twist. Unique in China, the duplex rooms are 69 square meters in size and feature floor-to-ceiling windows, affording expansive views over Beijing from the master bedroom upstairs, and from the entry lobby and living room downstairs.

Marriott International Celebrates The Opening of The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Marriott International, In Partnership With The Smithsonian National Museum Of African American History And Culture Celebrates The Women Who’ve Paved The Way At The EncouragHERS Luncheon Featuring Common, Jazmine Sullivan And Special Guests

Marriott International’s sponsorship of the museum is in commitment to its mission to honor African American history and culture

Marriott International has announced its partnership with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), and its role as the grand opening hospitality sponsor. To kick off the weekend, Friday, September 23, 2016, Marriott International is hosting EncouragHERS, a luncheon recognizing women of character, courage and commitment, hosted by Common, with a performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jazmine Sullivan. The celebratory event will shine a light on the contributions of women to the African American community and their role in making the new museum a reality.

Marriott International, Inc. logo. (PRNewsFoto/Marriott International, Inc.) (PRNewsFoto/)

The National Museum of African American History and Culture was established as the 19th Smithsonian museum by an Act of Congress through legislation signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2003. Groundbreaking occurred in 2012. The museum occupies a prime location in Washington, D.C., on the National Mall at the corner of Constitution Avenue at 14th Street, across from the Washington Monument. Opening Sept. 24, the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum will be the nation’s largest and most comprehensive cultural destination devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and showcasing the African American experience.

“The National Museum of African American History and Culture has been a long time in the making, and all of us at Marriott International are truly honored to be kicking off the weekend with the EncouragHERS luncheon,” said Erika Alexander, chief lodging services officer, the Americas at Marriott International. “EncouragHERS are the women who recognize when their communities need her support, when their protégés need encouragement, when their families need her strength or when friends just need an ear, act as an inspiration to us all, and that’s why Marriott is here to say thank you.”

The EncouragHERS luncheon will recognize the influence and brilliance of women who use their energy to uplift and empower women leaders from across all industries of business, entertainment, sports, politics and more. Each attendee has demonstrated support for the African American community or made impactful contributions to NMAAHC, which reflects Marriott International‘s 80+ year commitment to diversity and inclusion.

“I am looking forward to being a part of this incredible event with Marriott International and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, celebrating the contributions of strong African American women and kicking off such an important and historic weekend in Washington, D.C.,” said Oscar and Grammy winning artist Common. “As the son of a single mother, I am proud to honor the women who came before us, and to do my part to nurture future generations of strong African American women.”

The opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture provides the opportunity for Marriott International to welcome guests traveling from throughout the United States and around the world to witness the historic opening of the Smithsonian’s newest cultural institution. Marriott International looks forward to hosting Washington, D.C. visitors for years to come, as the museum continues to be a sought-after destination. Visit www.marriott-nmaahc.com and follow the Marriott International Twitter and Instagram handles (@MarriottIntl) for additional information about EncouragHERS and Marriott International‘s support for the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Playboy Magazine Unveils Its October 2016 “The Renegades Issue” Featuring Sky Ferreira

The Special Double Cover Issue Hits Newsstands This Week With An Interactive Online Version Now Available Here

http://www.playboy.com/features/renegades-issue-2016

Playboy unveiled today its October 2016 edition – “The Renegades Issue,” starring the unstoppable actress and musician, Sky Ferreira, who graces two different front cover designs that hit newsstands on September 27^th. The double covers, a rarity in the world of Playboy, feature Sky in a more traditional Playboy look and one decidedly more modern. A special interactive teaser of the magazine is available now on Playboy.com.

Playboy Magazine Unveils Its October 2016 “The Renegades Issue” Featuring Sky Ferreira on two separate covers

Sky Ferreira leads a group of eight unconventional men and women who aren’t afraid to break the rules in Playboy’s first-ever “Renegades” issue. Among the cultural trendsetters are retired pro skateboarder Jason Dill on surviving near-death; Stoya, a ballerina turned porn star; Against Me! founder Laura Jane Grace who reveals the challenges of being transgender in punk rock; comedian and Fresh Off the Boat writer Ali Wong on motherhood; Paul Beatty, one of America’s most daring writers who’s known to push societal boundaries; Noor Tagouri, a 22-year-old Hijabi Muslim activist and journalist determined to break down stereotypes; and Sean Murray, founder of Hello Games and its ambitious video game No Man’s Sky, that delivers on the promise of endless exploration and adventure.

The October 2016 issue also features an in-depth, 8-page conversation with the self-proclaimed “comedic rock star,” Kevin Hart. Taking a break from world domination, Hart sat down with Playboy and opened up about his relationship with his father and shared his thoughts on controversial figures such as Donald Trump and Bill Cosby. Hart also discusses his Kevmoji app, currently the #1 downloaded app on iTunes, along with his record-breaking global comedy tour, upcoming tech deals, movies, endorsements and more.

Additional highlights of Playboy’s October 2016 issue include:

• 20Q with Rachel Bloom: the woman behind CW’s hit sitcom and two-time 2016 Emmy Awards winner, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, doesn’t hold back as she discusses comedy, sex and politics.
• No Filter with Sharna Burgess: in its 23rd season, this Dancing with the Stars vet returns with all-new partner, racecar driver James Hinchcliffe.
• Technology will destroy democracy…Alex Halderman: the professor behind hacking voting machines warns that our democracy is threatened by evil hackers.
• Miss October, Allie Silva: featured in a 10-page pictorial shot by notable photographer Henrik Purienne, 27-year-old Miss October uncovers her Norwegian and African American upbringing.
• Francofile: James Franco interviews Maggie Gyllenhaal (co-stars in HBO’s upcoming series, The Deuce) on the science of playing a prostitute, navigating a sex scene, and the brilliance of Heath Ledger.
• Music: Long Beach native Vince Staples on breaking every rule in hip hop and how he fell into rapping by accident.
• Playboy Advisor: monthly advice columnist Bridget Phetasy deftly answers the age old question, “Is it ever okay to send a dick pic?“
• Additional content includes Fiction from Tony Tulathimutte‘s After the Dyerses and original art from Chloe Kovska.
  

  Playboy Enterprises, Inc. (PRNewsFoto/Playboy Enterprises, Inc.)

Playboy‘s double cover of the October 2016 “The Renegades Issue” will be available on newsstands nationwide on Thursday, September 27. To subscribe to Playboy, click here.

Guinness & Co. Debuts Two New Limited-Time Beers From The Brewers Project

Guinness Rye Pale Ale and Guinness Antwerpen Stout Join the Growing Guinness Family in the U.S.

A long-time favorite recipe in Belgium and a small batch ale originally brewed as a holiday gift for a lucky few outside of the Open Gate Brewery led to the two latest Guinness & Co. releases from The Brewers Project: Guinness Antwerpen Stout and Guinness Rye Pale Ale. For a limited time, the two new beers join a growing Guinness lineup that has recently welcomed additions such as Guinness Blonde American Lager and Guinness Nitro IPA conceived by the experimental brewery within St. James’s Gate.

Guinness (PRNewsFoto/Guinness)

The Guinness brand was established in 1759, when Arthur Guinness signed a 9,000 year lease on St. James’s Gate Brewery in Dublin. Brewed using four main ingredients, water, barley (malted & roasted), hops and yeast, Guinness is the world’s most popular stout. The iconic beer is brewed in 49 countries worldwide and sold in over 150 with almost 9 million glasses of Guinness enjoyed every day around the world.

The two beers fit right in at a brewery that’s been doing things differently since day one. In the late 1700s, Arthur Guinness – along with just about every other brewer at the time – was paying the bills with a steady production of ales. That all changed in 1799 when he chose to switch things up from those ales and focus more on darker, stouter beers, including the iconic stout the world knows now. A couple of centuries later, this taste for innovation would also lead to the world’s first nitrogenated beer.

Guinness Antwerpen Stout was brewed for the first time in 1944 for its namesake: the Belgian city of Antwerp. Though known by a different name – Guinness Special Export – it’s still a fan favorite in the European city. The beer won everyone over with its intense roasted malt, smoked wood, raisin and licorice notes and its sweet smells of bittersweet chocolate, coffee and a touch of black currant. In fact, even the brewers within St. James’s Gate have been known to line up for a few bottles before the beer makes its way to Belgium.

“It’s been more than 70 years since we first exported the Antwerpen Stout from Dublin to Antwerp, but its cult following is probably stronger than it’s ever been,” noted Padraig Fox, the General Manager for the Open Gate Brewery Experience. “I guess now the secret is out. Even if it is only for a few months, we’re happy to see this Guinness favorite having its moment in the U.S.”

With an ABV of 8.0% and 52 IBUs, Guinness Antwerpen Stout will be available in the U.S. through December 2016 in four packs of 11.2 oz. bottles for a suggested retail price of $9.99.

Guinness Rye Pale Ale got its start just last year when The Brewers Project cooked it up as a fun holiday gift for their friends and families. Everyone loved the beer so much that Guinness decided to try it out on tap at the Open Gate Brewery in Dublin. There, the rave reviews continued. Guinness decided to move the brewing process to a bigger brew house so even more people could try the surprise hit. The rustic ale has a peppery bite thanks to the rye malt used, but gets a nice balance from the grapefruit and citrus flavor from Mosaic and Cascade hops.

“Beer is obviously something we love, and we wanted to share a little something we were working on with just a few of our closest friends and family and colleagues at the brewery,” explained Peter Simpson, one of the brewers who worked on the original batch of Guinness Rye Pale Ale. “We didn’t expect it to get this kind of reaction, but it just sort of snowballed. Now here we are about to introduce it to the other side of the world.”

Guinness Rye Pale Ale will be available in the U.S. through December 2016 in six packs of 11.2 oz. bottles for a suggested retail price of $8.99. The amber ale has an ABV of 5.0% and 18 IBUs.

The most GUINNESS is sold in Great Britain, Ireland, USA, Nigeria and Cameroon. More information can be found at www.guinness.com.

Whether enjoying a new Guinness Antwerpen Stout, Guinness Rye Pale or any other brew in the Guinness family, please remember to respect the beer and drink sensibly.

2016 Holiday Gift Guide: The Toy Insider Unveils the Hottest Toys for Holiday 2016 with Hot 20, Top Tech 12 and STEM 10 Lists

The Best Toys of the Season Include Pokémon, Paw Patrol, PJ Masks, and Disney Princesses

The Toy Insider unveiled its expert picks for the best kids’ toys and tech in its 11th Annual Holiday Gift Guide (http://www.thetoyinsider.com/2016-holiday-gift-guide/) today. The hottest items for 2016 are broken out into three lists: The Hot 20 (the items expected to top kids’ wish lists), Top Tech 12 (drones, wearables, robotic pets, and more) and STEM 10 (science, technology, engineering and math toys that make learning fun). With lots of options for kids of all ages, these 42 items are sure to wow kids this holiday season, and are expected to be hard to find or sold out by Christmas. This year’s guide is the biggest ever, featuring more than 275 toys from more than 110 manufacturers. Parents and gift givers can easily search by a child’s age (broken out into 0-2, 3-5, 6-8 and 9+ age groups) and interests using the handy skill-development key.

The Toy Insider team of experts reviews toys 365 days a year on thetoyinsider.com. When evaluating toys, the team considers play value, originality, skill building, product integrity and, of course, fun factor.

“At The Toy Insider, we know play, and the toys in our holiday gift guide will have kids laughing, learning and playing in meaningful ways,” says Laurie Schacht, co-publisher and Chief Toy Officer, The Toy Insider. “Playtime is all about bringing the whole family together, and whether it’s an engaging new board game, an interactive play set, or an adorable tech pet, the toys on our list will get everyone having fun all season long and well into 2017.“

The Toy Insider’s 2016 holiday gift guide will appear in the November issue of Family Circle magazine, on newsstands on October 11th, and online at thetoyinsider.com. This year’s guide is the biggest ever, featuring more than 275 toys from more than 110 manufacturers. (PRNewsFoto/The Toy Insider)

The Toy Insider is the go-to source for product information about children’s toys, tech and entertainment. It publishes two annual gift guides—one for summer and one for holiday—and is a trusted online resource for parents all year long. Its content is produced by an editorial team with more than 75 years of combined experience covering the children’s products industry.

The Toy Insider’s Hot 20

0-2 years

Laugh & Learn Crawl-Around Learning Center (Fisher-Price)

Go! Go! Smart Friends Enchanted Princess Palace (VTech)

• Laugh & Learn Crawl-Around Learning Center (Fisher-Price)
• Go! Go! Smart Friends Enchanted Princess Palace (VTech)

Fall In Love With The New Pumpkin Spice Flavor From Baileys™ Irish Cream Liqueur

Limited Time Offering Puts a Seasonal Twist on the Classic Delight

Step up your Java Game and Add Some Baileys Pumpkin Spice to your Coffee or Indulge with a Pumpkin Spice Latte for a Not-So-Basic Caffeine Fix.

Fall is coming, and that means it’s time for cozy sweaters, football games, and all plaid everything, but this year, Baileys™ wants you to spice up your life with the newest addition to the brand’s liqueur collection, Baileys™ Pumpkin Spice Irish Cream Liqueur. It’s the signature delicious balance of Irish Cream and whiskey that makes BAILEYS— and now Baileys™ Pumpkin Spice Irish Cream Liqueur — the perfect little indulgence when you need a break from your daily routine. A seasonal limited time offering, Baileys Pumpkin Spice is only available now through November, so hurry up and #BuyNowOrCryLater.

Baileys Pumpkin Spice Irish Cream Liqueur (PRNewsFoto/Diageo)

As the new must-have autumn accessory, Baileys™ Pumpkin Spice is the best thing to happen to fall since apple cider and cashmere scarves. The unapologetically indulgent liqueur is a modern update on the classic Irish Cream that blends the flavors of sweet cinnamon and baking spices, luscious maple, brown sugar, and baked pie crust with additional hints of vanilla and coffee for a unique Baileys taste experience.

“With the launch of Baileys Pumpkin Spice, consumers everywhere can indulge in the delicious new flavor that brings together two seasonal favorites, and exemplifies the spirit of Baileys,” said Nicola Heckles, Director or Liqueurs at Diageo. “We encourage consumers to celebrate the season responsibly and enjoy Baileys Pumpkin Spice in style.“

Whether you’re tailgating with friends or cozying up by the fire, Baileys Pumpkin Spice is an essential addition to all of your autumn activities. Served alone, over ice or mixed into a cocktail, Baileys Pumpkin Spice is the ultimate way to treat yourself this fall. Just follow the recipe below

Baileys Pumpkin Spice Latte (PRNewsFoto/Diageo)

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Baileys™ Pumpkin Spice
• 1 1/2 oz Brewed Coffee
• 1 oz Milk
• Fresh Grated Cinnamon for Garnish

Preparation:

• Combine Baileys Pumpkin Spice with brewed coffee and milk. Stir well.
• Serve warm or over ice.
• Top with fresh grated cinnamon. Enjoy!

Baileys Pumpkin Spice is now available nationwide wherever spirits-based beverages are sold for a suggested retail price of $24.99 for a 750 ml bottle. For more information on Baileys Pumpkin Spice, please visit www.BAILEYS.com.