PrimeRunway.com Announces New Look for the New Season

The PrimeRunway.com team is happy to announce the official opening of July 2011, the month of summer festivities and designer clothing. An entirely new look for the PrimeRunway.com website is about to be presented in the next couple of days along with many new items that are now being added to the impressive PrimeRunway.com selection of designer clothing and footwear.

Alfred Azzopardi of PrimeRunway.com says “This will be an entirely new look for the site; more glamorous than ever, of course, but most importantly, much more convenient to use. We’ve added several new features and o women’s jackets online ptimized the shopping cart and check out to make our clients’ experience even more enjoyable and effortless.” The new layout will feature a different menu structure as well as a new item display for more efficient browsing.

An exquisite collection of swimwear is being updated with items by such world-renowned designer clothing icons as Versace, Armani, D&G, Prada, Gucci etc. Sandals and flip-flops by some of the leading fashion labels will be added shortly.

Perfect for luxuriating on the beach, designer shorts for men and women are the latest hot item of the season. The PrimeRunway.com Grand Summer Sale is just about to start. So don’t be late to grab a pair of stylish shorts at up to 35% off.

The inventory has also been receiving some amazing designer dresses by Gucci, Christian Audigier and Roberto Cavalli. Some of these will also enter the Grand Summer Sale along with all t-shirts, tops and polos in stock.

Designer clothing enthusiasts of both sexes will certainly be pleased with the new collections of designer jeans. All major Italian designer brands are extremely well represented. PrimeRunway.com catalogue holds denim items from the 2011 spring-summer collections by Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Gucci, Armani, Prada and Roberto Cavalli. As always, PrimeRunway.com takes special pride in the extraordinary selection of designer jeans. Don’t miss an amazing opportunity to own these beautiful denim pieces. The grand Summer Sale will include most of this season jeans, some of which will be reduced by as much as 39%.

Recent collections of flamboyant designer clothing by Christian Audigier and Ed Hardy have also made their way into the PrimeRunway.com catalogue. Amazing printed t-shirts, dresses and tops by these labels will be added to the catalogue shortly. These extravagant and garish garments are certain to appeal to the most uncompromising customer. The prints are more entrancing and intricate than ever and of course there is the usual top quality of fabrics, stitching and detailing. Some new Christian Audigier and Ed Hardy head wear is also expected to be added shortly.

The new site layout is expected to launch in early July but no official date has been announced by PrimeRunway.com. Any further details concerning the new site design launch will be revealed shortly on the shop’s blog or in their newsletter. For more information on upcoming events, promotions and sales please don’t hesitate to visit PrimeRunway.com.

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Save on Fall Fashion Trends and Help Your Community During the Bon-Ton Goodwill® Sale

Top designers are heading to New York for Fashion Week, so follow their lead. Head to your local Bon-Ton Stores to stock up on affordable fall fashions – and while you’re at it, donate what you no longer need to Goodwill?. The Bon-Ton Store’s semi-annual Goodwill Sale takes place September 14 – 28, and when you donate your gently used clothing and textiles at any 275 Bon-Ton Stores locations or furniture galleries you will receive a discount coupon toward new merchandise. Your donations will be sold at Goodwill stores and revenues will fund job training programs and other services in your community that help people earn jobs, be independent and care for their families.

Shoppers will receive a discount coupon for each item of cl women’s coats othing or textile they donate. The coupon can be used at any Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s, Younkers or Parisian stores to purchase apparel, shoes and accessories at a 20 percent discount; and cosmetics, fragrances and home store or luggage merchandise at a 15 percent discount.

Those who donate during the Goodwill Sale can take pride in knowing that their Goodwill donations are helping people with disabilities, those who lack education or work experience or others who face challenges to finding employment. Goodwill trains people to work in fields with high demands for skilled workers including healthcare, green industries, financial services and retail. In addition to job training and career development programs, Goodwill offers services that strengthen local communities, such as youth mentoring, financial planning and family strengthening.

“Each donation to Goodwill helps our friends and neighbors, many of whom are still struggling to find work in this difficult economy,” said Jim Gibbons, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. “Our donors, including those who participated in the Goodwill Sale, helped Goodwill agencies serve more than 2.4 million people last year—a 26 percent increase from 2009.”

Customers who donate at Bon-Ton Stores during the Goodwill Sale are contributing multiple “Acts of Goodwill.” Shoppers may also pledge their support for Goodwill’s mission and register their donation on http://www.millionactsofgoodwill.com to receive a coupon for a 25 percent discount to use at the Bon-Ton Stores. They will also be able to play the “Spin-to-Win” game for a chance to win a $100 gift card instantly and be entered into a sweepstakes for a chance win $1000 shopping spree.

“We are grateful for the many donors who continually support our Goodwill Sale and help people in their communities build their careers with Goodwill’s help,” said Bud Bergren, president and chief executive officer of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. “We are very excited about the merchandise assortments for this event and believe our customers will respond enthusiastically. We are also very pleased with our successful partnership with Goodwill which demonstrates our commitment to being positive participants in the communities we serve.”

About Goodwill Industries International
Goodwill Industries International is a network of 165 community-based agencies in the United States and Canada with 14 affiliates in 13 other countries. Goodwill is one of North America’s top five most valuable and recognized nonprofit brands as well as a leading social services enterprise (Source: Cone Nonprofit Power Brand 100, 2009). Goodwill agencies are innovative and sustainable social enterprises that fund job training programs, employment placement services and other community-based programs by selling donated clothing and household items in nearly 2,600 stores and online at shopgoodwill.com. Local Goodwill agencies also build revenue and create jobs by contracting with businesses and government to provide a wide range of commercial services, including packaging and assembly, food service preparation, and document imaging and shredding. In 2010, 2.4 million people in the United States and Canada benefited from Goodwill’s career services. Goodwill channels 84 percent of its revenues directly into its programs and services. To find a Goodwill location near you, use the online locator at http://www.goodwill.org , or call (800) 741-0186. Twitter: @GoodwillIntl

About The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc.
The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc., with corporate headquarters in York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, operates 275 department stores, which include 11 furniture galleries, in 23 states in the Northeast, Midwest and upper Great Plains under the Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s and Younkers nameplates and, in the Detroit, MI, area, under the Parisian nameplate. The stores offer a broad assortment of national and private brand fashion apparel and accessories for women, men and children, as well as cosmetics and home furnishings. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. is an active and positive participant in the communities it serves. The Goodwill Sale event is long-standing charitable partnership the Company developed to support and build strong communities. For further information, please visit the investor relations section of the Company’s web site at http://investors.bonton.com. Twitter: @thebonton Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Bonton

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San Francisco Kid’s Clothing Boutique Announces, Little Gi rl Princess, Snow White and Little Red Riding Hood Costumes Available at Gigi + Rose

Gigi + Rose, a San Francisco kids clothing boutique located in Ghirardelli Square’s premier fashion boutique, provides Bay Area women’s jackets online residents with feminine day dresses, super chic sweaters and clothing, an abundance of lighthearted gift items and children’s clothing and kid’s toys.

For Halloween, Gigi + Rose is filled to the brim with little girl gowns and all the accessories.

“Little girls love to dream and I love seeing the light in their eyes when they see themselves in the mirror,” said designer and owner Kristina De Pizzol. “Our dress up section is amazing. It is filled with truly beautiful gowns in gold and starlight blue, right out of a fairytale. Last week one dad had to take his little girl out for a few minutes to calm her down. Her eyes were huge and she was so excited. Girls love it here.”

San Francisco women’s clothing, Gigi + Rose is eye candy for Mom as well. While the girls shop and delight in the fun “I Dream of Genie” corner – Moms can browse and enjoy the tasteful selection of clothing and home items for them. She can check out the stylin’ hats from Japanese Designer Grace, super soft angora hats from Kangol, and hip fedora’s from SF’s own Goorin Bros. as well as clothing from Free People, Tulle and Ryu.

For more information on Gigi + Rose and their products, contact them at (415) 765-9060 or visit them on the web at http://www.gigiandrose.com. They are located in Ghirardelli Square 900, North Point Ste. #H103 San Francisco, CA 94109. The entrance is located on Beach Street.

About Gigi + Rose

Gigi + Rose a San Francisco fashion boutique carries a wide selection of women’s accessories, bags, and jewelry — much of it made by local artisans and designers. In addition, there is a little girl dreamland filled with tutus, dress up and Hello Kitty. Fun, pretty and not too serious. Just right.

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The NAPW Minneapolis Local Chapter Discussed Social Media at Their Networking Meeting for Professional Women in November

The NAPW Minneapolis Local Chapter met for a professional networking meeting and breakfast at the Sofitel Minneapolis Chez Collette restaurant in Bloomington, Minnesota on November 3rd.

Sabra Brown kicked off the meeting by welcoming attendees and encouraging the members to introduce themselves.

Members in attendance included Sabra Brown (president), Chief of Public Affairs for the 934th Airlift Wing; Kris Pearson, Realtor Senior Advisor for Keller Williams Integrity Realty Lakes; Sherri Roseen, Partner in the Business Advisory Services group at Froehling Anderson, Ltd.; Melodie Neff (new member), Technical Staffing Supervisor at Superior Group; and Kathy Scherer, Accounting Manager at Titan Energy S women’s coats ystems. Guests in attendance included Terri Rea (guest of Sabra Brown), who is an independent business owner of Simply You jewelry. She is in the process of joining NAPW.

Sabra described the networking and continuing education opportunities NAPW offers and passed out a list of seminars offered by Star 12 in the upcoming months in the Twin Cities area. She also discussed the various member benefits of being a part of NAPW.

The Minneapolis Chapters events are now listed on EventBrite.com to better track RSVPs and attendance. Members were encouraged to use this site to sign up for meetings.

Melodie Neff gave a presentation on effective social media skills and how to properly use professional social media sites like Linked In. There was quite a bit of interest from all attendees on the matter of using Facebook as a personal site versus using it as a professional tool to garner new customers or hightlight services and products.

Social networking is an important topic for business professionals, said Sabra. The chapter was excited that Melodie was able to provide tips and insight into effectively using social media.
The chapter expressed intrest in hosting a womens career fair in August to encourage women to showcase their services and products. More information will be available on this topic beginning next year.

Some of the NAPW Minneapolis women will enter the Walk to End Hunger, November 24th at the Mall of America in Bloomington. All NAPW Minneapolis members and guests are welcome to join the walk. The cost to participate is $25 for each adult.

The group will collect clothing for Dress For Success at the next meeting, so members were advised to bring gently used, clean business attire and accessories to donate.

Members discussed the need to keep meetings free of costs as that could be a deterent for some women to attend the monthly get-togethers.

The next meeting will be held on December 6th at the historic Cedarhurst Mansion in Cottage Grove at 3:30 p.m. Those who would like to join in a formal Christmas High Tea can do so at 3 p.m. at the same location. The cost for the tea is $25 each. A white elephant gift exchange will take place at this meeting. All attendees are encouraged to bring a gift from home to exchange with other attendees.

Sabra Brown thanked everyone for attending and encouraged women to bring a friend to the next meeting.

For additional information regarding the NAPW Minneapolis Local Chapter and/or NAPW please visit http://www.napw.com.

Follow NAPW on Facebook and Twitter.

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GBK Will Host Celebrity Gift Lounge Honoring Nominees and Presenters of 2012 Golden Globes

GBK, the luxury lifestyle gift lounge and special events company will feature its sponsoring luxury gifts, services and charity fundraising on January 13th & 14th from 11AM to 6PM at the L’Ermitage Hotel in Beverly Hills.

GBK, the recipient of multiple BizBash Awards for “Best Gift Bag,” will present to its private list of invited celebrities, VIPs, and media an opportunity to enjoy an elite environment with gifts, beauty services and hors’derves while tending to its charitable causes.

GBK’s 2012 Golden Globes Lounge rsvp’s include nominees, presenters and guests such as Alexander Payne
“The Descendants” (Best Director – Motion Picture and Best Screenplay – Motion Picture),
Callie Thorne “Necessary Roughness” (Best performance by an Actress in a TV series – Drama) Damian Lewis “Homeland” (Best performance by an Actor in a TV series – Drama). Ben Schwartz “Parks and Recreation”
Betsy Brandt “Breaking Bad”, Glynn Turman “House of Lies”, Janina Gavankar “True Blood,”
Joe Mantegna “Criminal Minds”, Laura Prepon “Are You There, Chelsea?” Lauren Bowles “True Blood”
Mayim Bialik “The Big Bang Theory” and many more…..

GBK’s sponsors include a wide range of creative, luxurious and select companies who will share their products and accomplishments with industry tastemakers and celebrities while giving back to a greater causes such as poverty and education.

Sponsors include:

Crizal?- No-Glare Lenses Designer Sunglasses with Crizal SunShield? No-Glare Lenses. Brands include Fendi, Prada, and Burberry.

Sandra Brooks Collection- Handcrafted one-of-a-kind gemstone and pearl jewelry for men and women, creating juxtapositions of organic elements and glitz, modern and traditional, casual and formal elegance.

Air Pacific- will be giving a round trip ticket for two for all Nominees and Presenters to FIJI. They will be staying at one of the exclusive 5 Star Island Resorts, including: Yasawa Island Resort and Spa, Vomo Fiji Island Resort, or Tadrai Fiji Island Resort.

5Star Responder- is a first-of-its-kind wireless, portable device that is an easy, convenient, and affordable way to better protect yourself or those closest to you, at home or on the go. By simply pressing the button on the Responder, users are immediately connected to highly-trained Certified Response Agents who will identify them and their location, conference in family or friends, dispatch 9-1-1 emergency services, access a nurse, or provide any additional assistance, if needed.

Adult Chocolate Milk – is a premium, pour-and-serve vodka-based cocktail with a unique taste and retro-chic appeal that was launched in 2009 by busy moms and lifelong friends Tracy Reinhardt and Nikki Halbur.

Beyond The Rack- is North America’s premier online shopping club, offering men and women top designer brand clothing, accessories, beauty, home décor and consumer electronics up to 70% off retail. Gifting clothing for men and women by some of Beyond the Rack’s great brands including Dex, Coupe, Triple 5 Soul, and My Tribe.

Bota Box- are premium, award winning wines in 3L box and 500ml tetra pack, convenient, portable and environmentally friendly packages.

Bread Basket Cake Company- Chocolate fudge and French vanilla cream filled dessert topped with a raspberry.

Ajinomoto North America, Inc.- Glysom? is a safe, effective, scientifically-proven and physician-distributed dietary supplement for deeper, sounder and more satisfying sleep without morning drowsiness* that leaves you fully refreshed for the day ahead.

eos Products- Hig women’s coats hly moisturizing, delightfully packaged skin care products, including lip balms, hand lotions, body lotions, and shaving cream.

Centerville Pie Co.- A Centerville Pie Company signature Chicken Pie made with over a pound of chicken meat, covered in savory gravy & wrapped in a hand-rolled flaky crust.

Cocopotamus Chocolate- Handmade Cocopotamus dark chocolate fudge truffles.

DNA Imprints- A canvas print transformed from a celebrities DNA and married to stunning colors

Earths Berries – An environmentally friendly, organic cleaner that helps keep your whole home clean and safe

G Wear- Eclectic, hand-sewn, one of a kind woman’s tee shirts and scarves with design appliqués made from recycled tee shirt materials

Glymed Plus ? Advanced Aesthetics- The GlyMed Plus FOR MEN Essentials Travel Kit & DNA Reset Face & Neck Cream

Haan Therapeutics- Latest innovation in Anti-Aging skin care.

HAYARI PARFUMS- First French Fragrance Floral Oriental for women by Hayari

Little Black Dress Vodka- Just like its namesake, new Little Black Dress Vodka is designed specifically to capture the essence of what women want in a cocktail: fuss-free, burn-free, and flavorful but with an eye toward calorie count. Little Black Dress Vodka is available in classic and three deliciously natural flavors – pineapple honey, blueberry pomegranate, and black cherry-vanilla.

Macadamia Natural Oil- Stylish canteen shoulder bag containing Healing Oil Treatment, Deep Repair Masque, Rejuvenating Shampoo and Oil infused comb, all you need to quench your hair needs

Mojo Boost International/Gentech Pharmaceutical- Mojo Boost & Mojo Chill; PhenTabz, weight loss pills; fast, effective, safe weight loss

NVEY ECO- A collection of high performance, long lasting pure organic makeup, formulated without the use of chemical ingredients such as petrochemicals or synthetic fragrances.

Q Handmade- Custom jewelry specializing in hand-stamped necklaces

RevitaLash ADVANCED- Newly formulated RevitaLash ADVANCED; eyelash conditioner that lengthens and thickens eyelashes. Introducing a new hair product; Hair by RevitaLash a conditioner that gives you thicker and fuller hair. Also RevitaLash Mascara and Perfect Primer that helps mascara adhere better to eyelashes and enhances eye color.

Sparkling ICE- Naturally flavored sparkling mountain spring water, zero calories with essential vitamins and antioxidants

Voskos Greek Yogurt & YoGreek- Award winning Greek yogurt presenting YoGreek which is a mix of delicious Voskos Greek yogurt & crunch!

TC Intimates- Today’s shape wear for today’s activities, work, play or an evening out. Shaping that leaves you looking sleek, smooth and comfortable.

The Artisan Group- All handcrafted jewelry, stationery, photography, art and other products

The Comphy Co.- The chosen favorite for micro-fiber bedding; by leading resorts, spas and celebrities nationwide.

Robert Graham- Presenting X Collection by Robert Graham, the newest men’s sportswear line by Robert Graham.

Tweezerman- Preview of the new Fashion Color Slant Tweezer – in Geranium (launching in May) and their beloved ProCurl Curler

VIE? magazine- sets itself apart as a high-gloss publication focusing on human interest stories and celebrating the “people and places.”

The Fresh Diet- Free trials of premium healthy at-home meal delivery service.

Exclusive Sedan Service- A gift certificate worth $100 for chauffeured luxury ground transportation which can be used anywhere in the LA metro area

AquaHydrate- Purified and refreshing, AquaHydrate is uniquely fortified and engineered to replenish the body differently than traditional bottled water. Raised to an alkaline pH of 9+, and then fortified with electrolytes and minerals it is the WATER FOR PEOPLE WHO KNOW THE DIFFERENCE. Gifting gift certificates for 1 year supply of AquaHydrate water.

This season’s GBK Gift Lounge is filled with premium sponsors, supporting celebrities and a wealth of media which will once again support “good will“ while enjoying a true Hollywood experience. “GBK will be making a donation to Clinton Global Initiative for this event and a local education fund in FIJI.” Stated- Gavin Keilly, CEO of GBK Productions.

ABOUT GBK:
GBK, formerly GBK Productions, is a luxury lifestyle gifting and special events company, specializing in entertainment marketing integration. Formed in 2000 by Gavin Keilly, the company’s Founder and CEO, GBK consists of five divisions: GBK Celebrity Gifting, GBK Special Events, GBK Weddings, GBK Charitable Consulting and GBK Marketing/Public Relations. Widely known in the entertainment industry for bringing that little extra something into the Gifting Lounge environment, GBK offers its clients a full range of marketing services. For more information on Gavin B. Keilly (CEO), Carla Domen (VP) or GBK, please go to gbkproductions.com.

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Three Years of Hope Around the World

In Logos Hopes three years of active service, Gods faithfulness has been evident in remarkable ways. On February 19, 2009, the ship sailed from K?ge, Denmark at the beginning of her voyage of hope. Since then over 2.5 million visitors have come on board to get access to educational and Christian literature and many thousands more have benefitted from the service of crewmembers on shore.

I look back with tremendous gratitude at the impact of the Logos Hope ministry, said CEO Peter Nicoll, God has given us opportunities to bring knowledge, help and hope in tangible, life-changing ways to so many people. These have been three years of experiencing Gods faithfulness and provision.

The ship has sailed over 40,000 nautical miles from Europe to the Caribbean, West Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, the Arabian Peninsula, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Singapore. Logos Hope arrived in the Philippines at the start of 2012.

I still vividly remember the day we set sail, said Logos Hope Director Gian Walser (Switzerland). Since then we have had many wonderful opportunities to share the Gospel. On a daily basis the Lord is impacting lives in the countries we visit, the communities we connect with, and of our crew on board.

Opportunities for ministry have been as varied as the cultures and countries the ship has visited. Rural libraries were established through literature do women’s jackets nations in Sierra Leone. In India and Sri Lanka, many people in poor communities benefitted from free medical and dental clinics.

In Malaysia, the newly opened Life-Xperience exhibit on the ships Visitor Experience deck provided a platform to educate and challenge people about HIV and AIDS and their attitudes towards those affected by it. Crewmembers put theory into practice in Port Klang, Malaysia. A team stayed at the Life Shelter home for children and women who have lost their parents or husbands to HIV. A few are themselves HIV positive. The team lived out the love of Christ while they carried out work projects and taught the children valuable practical skills. The team was so touched by the plight of one young boy from Liberia that they raised funds for a much needed operation.

Manila is Logos Hopes 66th port of call. While it is the ships first visit to the Philippines, OMs Ship Ministry is well known through previous ship visits. Ministry to street children and homeless families in Cebu was started during a Doulos visit in 2001 and has developed into a long-term work by OM Philippines.

Such impact is not without its challenges. There is a critical need for additional qualified marine personnel, as well as openings for many others to serve on board. Significant additional funding is needed in 2012 for the Power Up Logos Hope project to replace two of the vessels generators and install a heat recovery system. These vital upgrades will lay the foundation for future ministry by making the ship more efficient and reducing fuel consumption.

For latest news, further information, port schedules and opportunities to participate visit http://www.omships.org.

Logos Hopes global impact is dependent on the financial partnership of individuals and churches around the world. To support the ongoing ministry of Logos Hope, please contact your local OM office or give online at http://www.omships.org/donate

OM Ships International
Marketing & Communications

ABOUT OM SHIPS INTERNATIONAL
OM Ships International (OMSI) exists to transform lives by bringing knowledge, help and hope to the people of the world. OMSI pioneered the concept of using ships to transport literature, humanitarian aid and people resources. The organisations ships are well known for their work providing educational and Christian literature in ports around the world.

OMSI began in 1970 as part of the global Christian training and outreach movement, OM International. On board Logos Hope the crew and staff of 400, including professional seafarers, are all non-salaried volunteers. With over 45 different nationalities represented, the onboard community is a fascinating expression of cross-cultural living and understanding that reflect the church around the world. Crewmembers are unified by their faith and goal to share Gods love as they serve in port communities. The ship remains in port for several weeks and opens to thousands of visitors every day.

Over one million visitors come on board each year to browse the hallmark of the Ship Ministrya large floating book fair with over 5,000 titles in stock, including books for university studies, professional and career interests, history, science, economics, language learning, hobbies, novels, children’s stories, biographies, dictionaries, atlases and a wide variety of Christian resources, including Bibles, study materials and books on Christian living.

The ships also bring aid and relief to needy people and places around the world. Crewmembers go ashore to provide medical aid, help construct schools, orphanages and homes, and give gifts of food, clothing and books. Teams also visit hospitals, orphanages and prisons to share Gods compassion and love.

Since 1970, over 42 million people have visited the ships during more than 1,400 port visits in over 150 nations. People from all walks of life, from presidents and prime ministers to street children and the homeless, have been welcomed on board.

OMSIs operational costs are met by sponsorship of onboard personnel, general donations and gifts, reductions and waivers of fees by civic and port authorities, book sales, and corporate support in each port of call.

Logos Hope is operated on behalf of OMSI by GBA Ships e.V. (formerly Good Books for All), a private, non-profit, entity registered in Germany.

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Tom James Company Introduces Lessons on Luxury

Tom James Company, the world’s largest manufacturer and retailer of custom men’s clothing, announces they will host seven Luxury Trunk Shows in 2012.

Tom James, which celebrated 45 years in business in fall of 2011, is reacting to renewed interest in luxury menswear. Their business was up 10% in 2011, as well as up 9% in the first 10 weeks of 2012.

“This is clearly an event that offers ‘privileged access’ to those clients who seek a fuller understanding of what goes into making a finely constructed garment,” said Dougal Munro, President of Holland and Sherry.

“It begins with the cloth. And certainly all cloth is not created equal.”

Munro has spent a lifetime in the textiles industry.

“At Holland and Sherry, we literally go from the wool off the sheep’s back to the finished suit,” said Munro. View Video

His company, Holland and Sherry, is known as maker of the world’s finest cloth. He, and Don Deisch of Oxxford Clothes, will present a program entitled “Lessons on Luxury” at these trunk shows. They are designed to explain the craft behind their products.

Oxxford Clothes, of Chicago, IL, is an iconic American brand that creates custom suits for the most discriminating customer. Their product is considered to be a ‘bespoke’ garment.

“There is a lot of talk about ‘made-to-measure’ these days,’” said Todd Browne, President of Tom James Retail, “but there is confusion on what made-to-measure really is.”

“We feel, as the world’s largest manufacturer and retailer of custom men’s (and women’ women’s coats s) clothing, that we owe it to the public to understand the difference,” said Browne. “There is bespoke, custom and made-to-measure. That’s created a lot of interest in learning the real craft of luxury.”

Browne explains made-to-measure is the option just above ‘off the rack.’ Tom James does offer ‘off the rack’ or ready-made products at a lower price point, but as you move up they skip made-to-measure and go straight to custom suits. That’s where a clothier takes measurements and creates a pattern from those measurements. All garments are made from that pattern and the pattern is kept on hand for future purchases.

“Often people think when they purchase made-to-measure they are purchasing custom,” said Browne. “Not true. Typically made-to-measure starts with a stock pattern of that size and makes slight adjustments. A custom garment will take all the client’s measurements into account. It’s a more advanced process and it’s more exacting.”

Tom James also sells a true bespoke garment. “That’s an area of confusion for people, as well,” states Browne. “Some people think any custom garment is a bespoke garment, but that’s not the case.”

“Bespoke means ‘spoken for.’ What distinguishes the construction of a custom garment from a bespoke is that the bespoke garment has the highest level of meticulous detail, particularly achieved by hand sewing. A custom garment is likely to have more machine sewing.”

This insures the greatest possible shaping and suppleness in the finished garments as well as the refinement of style and fit that provides truly luxurious comfort.
An Oxxford Clothes bespoke suit, for example, has over 1000 hand stitches in the lapel alone.

Clients will have the opportunity to see the construction behind a bespoke garment as well as to have the opportunity, through Holland and Sherry, to actually participate in the design of their own fabric or choose from an extensive array of luxurious and exclusive fabrics, some of which are only available at the Lessons on Luxury shows.

“We know there are gentlemen who’ve always wished for a certain color of fabric, in a certain width of stripe or in a certain plaid. We have the capability of doing that.” said Munro. “If a gentleman wants the finest of bespoke garments, why not also allow him to choose the most exclusive cloth, one of his own design?”

What makes this offering unlike others is the fact Tom James owns all its tailoring facilities and factories. “Being vertically integrated,” said Browne, “means we have more options than any other custom clothier. We offer more fabrics, more options, plus we have the ability to manage the crafting process every step of the way.”

There are seven cities chosen to participate in these shows, including Chicago, San Francisco, St. Louis, Houston, Dallas, Philadelphia, and New York. Schedules will be posted at http://www.tomjames.com in the coming weeks. Though these events are invitation only, interested parties can contact Michele Stephens, Director of Marketing at m(dot)stephens(at)tomjames(dot)com for more information.

Tom James operates 105 offices in 36 US states and 5 countries, internationally. It owns and operates 3 worsted woolen mills, 8 tailoring facilities and factories and is proud to say 80% of its finished clothing products are made in the USA.
For more information, consult http://www.tomjames.com.

Safe Drinking Water Finally Flows for Suffering Community

The village of Injaram now has safe water to drink. A water well was drilled after this poor farming communitys local water source dried up in this years extreme heat and drought along the east coast of India. This is one of 12 wells bored so far this year by Childrens Hope International Foundation for people living in extreme poverty who are suffering from a polluted water supply.

Several women and children gathered at the well site after sunset Monday to watch the clear water gushing from the hand-pumped well. This gives the 1500 residents a much safer source of drinking water than the disease filled drainage pond where the villagers also bathe, wash their clothes, and water their farm animals.

Since the beginning of 2010, Childrens Hope International Fo women’s coats undation donors have completed 84 wells for slum villages in eastern India through Mission to the Nations. But there are still over 170 farming communities and fishing villages in the southern reaches of Andhra Pradesh that are on the waiting list for a new water well.

The heads of many villages are approaching me almost every day for help boring a water well for their village, said Paparao Yeluchuri, Mission to the Nations Director.

The requests multiply as the drought lingers for this area around Kakinada. Because of the location near the Bay of Bengal, it only requires an inexpensive shallow well to deliver palatable water to hundreds of people. Each well costs $650.

Now, with your compassionate help, the village people have safe drinking water, Yeluchuri said.

Voss Foundation Hosts Second Annual Women Helping Women Event in Boston to Provide Clean Water Access in Africa

The Voss Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing access to clean water to communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, will host its Second Annual Women Helping Women Boston event on Wednesday, June 20th at L’Espalier, 774 Boylston Street at the Mandarin Oriental in Back Bay from 6-8 pm. A worldwide network of grassroots action, Women Helping Women is an international campaign that unites women in an effort to improve the lives of mothers and children across the globe. Voss Foundation’s Women Helping Women, or “Kvinner hjelper Kvinner” in Norwegian, is a campaign that has brought together more than 400 champions of clean water in eight countries, raising nearly $200,000 for water projects.

“We are thrilled to be working in Boston again, joining our other Women Helping Women efforts in New York, San Francisco, and throughout Europe, to raise vital funds and awareness for the water crisis in Sub-Saharan Africa,” says Kara Gerson, Executive Director of the Voss Foundation. “We are so lucky to have Patti’s support – she truly embodies female empowerment and strength of sharing.”

“The Voss Foundation’s mission caught my immediate attention,” adds Patti Austin.
“My organization (Over My Shoulder Foundation) and I celebrate the hard work of organizations like the Voss Foundation that enable others to improve their own lives around the world.”

Patti is co-founder of the Over My Shoulder Foundation, a unique media-based project whose goal is to raise awareness of the impact of mentoring both cross-culturally and cross-generationally. Additional information can be found at overmyshoulderfoundation.org.

Women Helping Women Boston will also feature the Voss Foundation’s celebrated African bazaar, an on-site market with beautiful, handcrafted jewelry and clothing from the countries and the regions where the Voss Foundation builds wells and water systems. Tickets for Women Helping Women Boston can be purchased on the Voss Foundation’s website at http://www.thevossfoundation.org. General admission costs $100.

For more information, e-mail info(at)thevossfoundation(dot)org.
Facebook.com/vossfoundation
Twitter handle: @vossfoundation

About Voss Foundation
The Voss Foundation is dedicated to providing access to clean drinking water to communities in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Voss Foundation employs a unique approach, which ensures local ownership and long-term sustainability through partnerships with trusted local organizations, use of appropriate technology, and through systems that address the multiple water needs of a community. The Voss Foundation’s primary targets are women and children, with special focus on adolescent girls — an often overlooked and under-serviced demographic that is particularly at risk.

About Patti Austin
Patti Austin is a Grammy award-winning R&B and jazz singer. Patti’s numerous collaborations includ women’s coats e working with Quincy Jones, Luther Vandross, Michael Jackson, Ashford and Simpson, George Benson, James Ingram, Billy Joel, Roberta Flack, James Brown, Harry Belafonte, and her godmother, the late Dinah Washington.

Media Contact:
Mark Traverson
212-725-1900 ex 223
MTraverson(at)stcassociates(dot)com

UC San Diego Extension Digital Arts Center Video and Editing Training Program Proudly Gives Back to Non-Profits in the San Diego Community Year After Year.

UC San Diego Extensions Digital Arts Center Video & Editing Program participates in developing the marketing, communication and fundraising strategies of non-profit companies by providing video production services from pre-production through polished post production. In addition to helping non-profits, the public service announcements, fundraising videos, and testimonials created in the Digital Arts Center also provide students with real-world opportunities and hands-on client based experience.

This year, students are working closely with non-profit clients such as Bullets2Bandages,My Girlfriends Closet and the San Diego Futures Foundation (See the DAC website for a complete list of the non-profit partners from the past ten years.)

When it comes time to work with non-profits, the video production class is divided in to groups of two to three students. The students meet with each client, discuss the company fashion coats s communication needs, and produce a video project that helps each company achieve its specific goals in the marketplace. This is a critically beneficial resource that helps each organization grow while giving back to our local community.

My Girlfriends Closet is an organization that collects quality, gently used clothing, shoes and accessories and distributes them to foster, homeless, and teenage girls in need. This years Digital Arts Center students created videos targeted at a broad general audience with an emotionally uplifting narrative. The video highlights the dedication of the volunteer families and the profound effect that their efforts have on young women in need. To gain practical film set experience, the student filmmakers take on different roles in the production process, all while helping a local San Diego based non-profit organization. These videos will be incorporated into the organizations website in the fall of 2012.

Bullets to Bandages is a socially conscious apparel and unique accessories company that assists veterans, those fighting for our country, and the families who provide them with love and support at home. The accessories are made in America from once-fired bulletsthey transform spent ammunition into wearable art. A portion of the companys profits are used to fund Green Beach, which works to restore independent and productive lives to disabled Veterans, while also promoting energy conservation and a clean environment. The students interviewed veterans and business leaders, and the footage will be incorporated into the websites of both organizations in the fall of 2012.

SD Futures Foundation is an organization that aims to improve the lives of people in San Diego through technology. SDFF provides equipment, software, training, services, and technical support to San Diego non-profits, small businesses, and disadvantaged residents. The Video & Editing program created short videos that showcase the foundations efforts to provide computers to low income families and individuals who do not have adequate access to these critical education and communication tools. Students went on location to SDFF warehouses to film the intake of used computers from donors. Students also shot interviews and images of people who have benefited from the computers and training that they have received from the foundation, telling deeply personal and emotional accounts of lives transformed by the foundation. These videos will be available as promotional tools on the foundations website in the fall of 2012.

Dawn Ford, lead video instructor for the Video & Editing program, teaches students that media production is time consuming and requires agile thinking and attention to detail, but in the end, the hard work pays off. Effective communications pieces are the result of artistic expression, collaboration between people with strong skills in many areas. As the projects come closer to the finish line, Ford is proud of what the students have accomplished: It is very rewarding to see the fruits of their labor and artistry benefiting the community. In fact, as the list of non-profit clients continues to grow, everyone involved with the Digital Arts Center is proud to help important organizations make a positive impact on the community.

For more information about the UC San Diego Extension|Digital Arts Center career focused programs in graphic & web design, casual gaming, mobile applications and video & editing training programs, view the website at dac.ucsd.edu, see a short demo of the video & editing students work on the DAC YouTube channel.

UC San Diego Extension is a division of the universitys Extended Studies & Public Programs, offering 100+ professional and specialized certificate programs in a variety of disciplines. Nearly 50,000 adult learners attend classes each year at its facilities on the UCSD La Jolla campus, the University City Center, and the Mission Valley Center.