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JAPAN NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION

Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) will be celebrating the U.S.-Japan Tourism Year with a commemorative “May the Force Be With You in Japan” float at the third annual Japan Parade in New York. The festivities will kick off at 1pm, with the parade route stretching from 81st Street to 67th Street along Central Park West.

The float will include costumed fans who have been officially invited by Lucasfilm, in conjunction with Japan Parade and members of Japan Society. Star Wars Celebration, the ultimate Star Wars fan event, will be held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan from April 18-20, 2025. In honor of that, JNTO will roll out a sweepstakes to win a free trip to Japan, which will run until September 30, 2024. Further details of the sweepstakes will be announced online on May 11. Wheelchair tennis star and four-time Japanese Paralympic gold medalist Shingo Kunieda has been named this year’s Grand Marshal, and the parade will also feature a live performance by the cast of Demon Slayer: The Stage, the musical stage adaptation of the popular anime and manga series, Demon Slayer. The parade will also feature performances from taiko bands, bon-odori dance troupes and martial arts groups.

Alongside the Japan Parade, Japan Street Fair will be held on West 72nd Street, with over 20 food tents serving authentic Japanese street cuisine. The street fair will also feature a JNTO tent, highlighting the best of travel to Japan, and cultural activities including calligraphy, water balloon yo-yo fishing, origami and a photo opp with Hello Kitty. A charity tent will collect donations for Noto earthquake victims, providing a free Japan Parade tote bag as a thank-you gift. In addition, JNTO has recently released a special video message from Boston Red Sox player Masahiro Yoshida, whose hometown in the Hokuriku region was affected by the earthquake.

For more information on the Japan Parade, please visit https://www.japanparadenyc.org/.

ABOUT U.S.-JAPAN TOURISM YEAR

2024 will mark the first time both the United States and Japan have developed this kind of union, which seeks to promote increased travel, mutual tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two countries. The Tourism Year agreement is a project of Japan National Tourism Organization(JNTO), the Japan Tourism Agency (JTA) and the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA), in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Travel and Tourism Office and U.S. Commercial Service, the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo and Brand USA. For more information, visit https://www.japan.travel/en/us/us-japan-tourism-year-2024/.

ABOUT JAPAN NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION (JNTO)

As the official tourism board, JNTO seeks to inspire international travelers to visit Japan. Focusing on sustainability, diversity and preservation of its history and culture, JNTO encourages travelers to explore the country while supporting local businesses, learning about indigenous cultures, and helping conserve its natural sites.

For more information about travel to Japan, visit https://www.japan.travel/en/us or the JNTO pages on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube. To contact the New York office of the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) directly, please e-mail us_media@jnto.go.jp.

ABOUT STAR WARS CELEBRATION

Star Wars Celebration is the ultimate fan experience focused on the galaxy far, far away…

The event is filled with major announcements, immersive exhibits, an interactive show floor, screenings, exclusive merchandise, celebrity guests, panels, autograph sessions, fan-inspired activities, costumes, and other surprises celebrating all things Star Wars! Star Wars Celebration is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience where memories are made, families are brought together, old friends are reunited, and new friendships forged — all in the setting of the ever-evolving Star Wars universe.The event is produced by Lucasfilm in cooperation with ReedPop, the organizers of New York Comic Con, C2E2, PAX, and many more events all over the world. The event will be held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan April 18-20, 2025.

6TH FRFF

Scheduled from May 17-18, 2024, the sixth annual French Riviera Film Festival (FRFF), celebrating short film and short-form content from around the globe, is pleased to unveil the finalist shorts of the 2024 competition, the announcement was made today by festival co-founders Nicole Goesseringer Muj and Gotham Chandna.

First launched in 2019, FRFF recognizes and celebrates short-form content created for film, television, web, and all digital platforms. Scheduled during the time period of the Festival de Cannes, FRFF invites filmmakers from around the globe to participate in the two-day event that includes screenings, 7th annual Global Entertainment Showcase (to be announced shortly), VIP receptions, and closing gala awards ceremony.

The first day’s schedule will be highlighted with a special out-of-competition screening of the new short psychological thriller Quimera by Tomas Vergara, starring Argentine actor Martin Rodriquez (star of Netflix’s Griselda) and Gadea Jimenez. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with the film’s actors and director.  

“2024 will mark a very exciting edition for our boutique short film festival,” comments Ms. Muj. “We’re delighted to be spotlighting the short film genre and recognizing the talented filmmakers and industry creatives from around the globe once again during the time of the Festival de Cannes.”

The festival will feature the works of filmmakers from more than 20 countries. The full list of finalist and honorable mention films in the award categories of Drama, Comedy, Documentary, Sci-Fi/Horror, Animation, Experimental, Fashion, Music Video, Micro Short, Student, and Activism is listed on the festival’s official website HERE.

At the official opening reception and closing awards ceremony, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Audience, Rising Star and Industry Excellence awards will also be presented (more details to follow). FRFF festival attendees and participants include filmmakers, industry executives, celebrities, media and influencers.

Festival screenings are free to attend and will be held live over two days from 10 am to 3 pm at the Eden Hotel & Spa (133 rue d’Antibes), with special ‘by invitation only’ receptions and awards events planned after each day’s screenings at the Bel-Air Fine Art Gallery and Eden Hotel.

The festival finalists and special mention films will also screen online beginning May 17 and 18th on Entertainment Oxygen’s eoFlix platform.

Event partners include Eden Hotel and Spa, Beverly Hills Hotel, Bel-Air Fine Art, Entertainment Oxygen, Lamborghini Champagne, Cardinal du Four, The Good Gin, VOGA Prosecco, filmfestivals.com, Indie Entertainment Media, and Just Cinema Magazine.  Gift bag partners include Bionova, Calessia Jewelry, Scruples Haircare, Velvet Eyewear, with bags by Shiki Wrap.

FRFF’s Advisory Board includes Michael Benoraya, founder, International Film Trust; Joan Burney Keatings, chief executive, Cinemagic; Bruno Chatelin, COO, filmfestivals.com (also on festival jury), Emmy Award-winning actor Vincent De Paul; Larry Namer, president/CEO,  Metan Global Entertainment Group, Ana B. Remos, vice president, editorial director & founder, azureazure.com (also on festival jury), Dr. Laura Wilhelm, founder/principal, LauraWil Intercultural (also on festival jury), and Daphna Edwards Ziman, president, Cinémoi USA.  Jury members include Rehna Azim, awards editor, Movie Marker; Lena Basse, journalist, Golden Globes; Claude Brickell, filmmaker, screenwriter and educator; Anna Marie de la Fuente; Kate Elfatah, HoM Consulting; Giovanni Menicocci, Mauxa/Daily Bloid; James Prestige, publisher, Close-Up Culture; entertainment attorney Tshombe Sampson; Eileen Tasca, managing director, Alien Films & Task Films; and Sue Vicory, founder, Heartland Films and womendocumentaryfilmmakers.com.

French Riviera Film Festival Founders  Gotham Chandna of Cloud 21 PR International and Nicole Goesseringer Muj of Kultura PR International have produced numerous industry special events, including the annual “Global Entertainment Showcase” during the Cannes Film Festival and Marché du Film, the annual “Production Without Borders” event during AFM, the annual Indie Entertainment Showcase in Park City, Utah, and “A Salute to Akira Kurosawa” with China’s Jinke Entertainment in Cannes. The companies have co-produced events and worked with top entertainment and technology brands, including Cinando, Creative Coalition, Davines North America, E! Entertainment Television, ECU Film Festival, Eurocinema, Euromed, FlixSnip, Maverick Entertainment, Metan Global Entertainment Group, Oculus, Sony Interactive, Vesilind, 8K Miles Media Group, FanVestor, plus many others.

Lamborghini HYBRID URUS

Automobili Lamborghini opens a new chapter in its history with the Urus SE, the first hybrid plug-in version of the Lamborghini Super SUV, unveiled at the Volkswagen Group Media Night ahead of the public premiere at Auto China Beijing 2024 on April 25 at 11 AM local time. Featuring a new design, optimized aerodynamics, unprecedented on-board technology and an 800 CV hybrid powertrain, the PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) version moves on Urus S in terms of comfort, performance, efficiency, emissions and driving pleasure. Thanks to its “two hearts”, thermal and electric, the torque and power values are the highest ever, giving the SE a unique place in its category and boasting an 80% reduction in emissions. 

“With the Urus we changed the paradigms of the SUV world, ushering in a new segment,” commented Stephan Winkelmann, Lamborghini Chairman & CEO. “In just a few years, the Urus has become our brand’s bestseller, enabling Lamborghini to attract new customers and strengthen its position in the most important markets. With the Urus SE, we’ve taken another step towards the future in line with our Direzione Cor Tauri strategy, moving ahead with the electrification of the range and the path toward decarbonization that began with the introduction of the Revuelto super sports car in March 2023.”

Automobili Lamborghini opens a new chapter in its history with the Urus SE, the first hybrid plug-in version of the Lamborghini Super SUV, unveiled at the Volkswagen Group Media Night ahead of the public premiere at Auto China Beijing 2024 on April 25 at 11 AM local time via 360 MAGAZINE.
Urus Hybrid via 360.

Reinvigorating Tulsa’s Black Wall Street with sneakers

Venita Cooper shares her journey that led her to Tulsa, her sneaker shop, and her award-winning tech startup.

Join correspondent Tom Wilmer for an insightful visit with Venita “Coop” Cooper at her trendy Silhouette Sneakers & Art in the heart of Tulsa’s Black Wall Street, Greenwood District.

Listen now and experience Coop’s story

Coop’s Silhouette Sneakers & Art is a curated retail experience that brings limited and authentic sneakers and streetwear to Tulsa.

Coop also shares fascinating insights about her brilliant startup, Arbit. Succinctly, it’ a pricing algorithm that empowers both buyers and sellers in the sneaker resell market. Coop says. “It’s not a marketplace. It’s an unbiased pricing B-to-C tool that informs buy and sell decisions in all sneaker marketplaces.”

“Our boutique features an art gallery showcasing a rotating selection of street-inspired art. We also deliver programming that links sneaker culture enthusiasts and cultivates a new generation of sneakerheads”.
– Venita Cooper, Owner/Founder of Silhouette Sneakers & Art

Silhouette Sneakers & Art located in Tulsa’s Historic Greenwood District showcases everything from custom and high-end shoes to vintage apparel and modern streetwear.

Shop for a unique pair of Yeezys, Nike Air Force Ones or Jordans while admiring the art gallery of rotating, street-inspired art. Other brands featured at Silhouette are Adidas, Converse, Fear of God, John Geiger, New Balance, Off-White, Saucony, Supreme and Vans. Meet other sneaker culture enthusiasts or add an exclusive set to your collection when visiting Silhouette Sneakers & Art.

Coop’s Sneaker shop is located in the exact spot where a shoe store reposed before it was arsoned in the 1921 Tulsa race massacre.

A central theme in Coop’s mission is to revitalize the Greenwood District and this is why she located her shop in the heart of the neighborhood—on the same footprint as the shoe store that was destroyed during the 1921 massacre.

Excerpt from a May 24, 2021 New York Times article about the terror attack on the Greenwood neighborhood:

Brick and wood-frame homes dotted the landscape, along with blocks lined with grocery stores, hotels, nightclubs, billiard halls, theaters, doctor’s offices and churches.

Greenwood was so promising, so vibrant that it became home to what was known as America’s Black Wall Street. But what took years to build was erased in less than 24 hours by racial violence — sending the dead into mass graves and forever altering family trees.

Hundreds of Greenwood residents were brutally killed, their homes and businesses wiped out. They were casualties of a furious and heavily armed white mob of looters and arsonists. One factor that drove the violence: resentment toward the Black prosperity found in block after block of Greenwood.

The financial toll of the massacre is evident in the $1.8 million in property loss claims — $27 million in today’s dollars — detailed in a 2001 state commission report.

For two decades, the report has been one of the most comprehensive accounts to reveal the horrific details of the massacre — among the worst racial terror attacks in the nation’s history — as well as the government’s culpability.

Silhouette storefront, Greenwood District
Photo credit: Thomas Wilmer
Downtown skyline, Tulsa, Oklahoma
Photo credit: Thomas Wilmer
Experience more travel stories on his award-winning podcast, Journeys of Discovery with Tom Wilmer.
Available wherever you listen to your podcasts.

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LUDMILLA + COACHELLA

BOUNDARY PUSHING BRAZILIAN STAR LUDMILLA MAKES IMPRESSIVE U.S DEBUT AT COACHELLA 2024

BECOMES THE FIRST AFRO-LATINA FEMALE ARTIST TO PERFORM ON COACHELLA’S MAINSTAGE

PREMIERED NEW SINGLE “PIÑA COLADA” LIVE FOR THE FIRST TIME ALONGSIDE SPECIAL GUEST RYAN CASTRO

From Brazil to the world! The boundary pushing Brazilian star LUDMILLA made her biggest U.S performance debut at Coachella last night with a personalized audio introduction from Beyonce and stellar pagode and funk-pop infused set. The show stopping performance radiated Brazilian energy and culture by taking the audience on a trip of some of her biggest chart topping songs that include “Rainha Da Favela,” “Amor Dificil” “Favela Chegou” and “Maliciosa,” in addition to her newest global hits such as “Macetando,” “No_Se_Ve.mp3” and “Maldivas.” Additionally, the Latin GRAMMY award winning artist’s performance made her the first Afro-Latina female to grace the festival’s main stage.

Furthermore, Ludmilla engraved a space on her set to celebrate the LGBTQ community by adding an impactful message from Erika Hilton, the first Brazilian transgender activist, highlighting their rights and educating the audience on the country’s overlooked political issue. It was definitely a monumental moment for the LGBTQ community and will go down in cultural history for Ludmilla’s audience.

Ludmilla’s Coachella’s debut comes a week after the release of her first ever Spanish single “PIÑA COLADA” alongside Ryan Castro. The hit brings Ludmilla back to her pop roots and follows her RIAA certified gold hit “No_Se_Ve.mp3,” further rising her status in the Latin market outside of Brazil.

For Ludmilla, who is currently the 6th most listened to black female artist in the world, her Coachella debut performance represents a major milestone for her career, further showcasing her U.S domination. The performance adds to her growing global takeover, adding to collaborations with iconic artists Snoop Dogg, Sean Paul and Mr. Vegas.

Next up, Ludmilla is preparing for her second Coachella show on Sunday, April 21st

REEBOK KIDS FOOTWEAR

Hot Wheels Iconic Die-Cast Car Designs
Reimagined in New Reebok Kids Footwear Collection, Available April 25

Reebok, the iconic and irreverent sports culture brand, and Hot Wheels™, the number-one selling toy in the world*, have announced a collaborative kids sneaker collection celebrating the brands’ shared heritage in play. Featuring four unique kids’ footwear styles that each pay homage to an iconic Hot Wheels die-cast car design, the Hot Wheels x Reebok collection is available globally beginning April 25, from Reebok.com and select retailers.

Conceived five decades ago, in 1968, by an innovator, a rocket scientist and a car designer, Hot Wheels high-performance die-cast cars and innovative track systems continue to offer energetic and engaging vehicle play that ignites the challenger spirit in every kid.  In collaboration with Reebok, a historic and irreverent brand whose mission is to inspire human movement, some of Hot Wheels’ most legendary die-cast cars known for their speed and unparalleled vehicular designs are being reimagined in a whole new way.

The Hot Wheels x Reebok collection presents four (4) unique kids footwear styles in which the brand’s historic “Night Shifter™”, “Twin Mill™”, Bone Shaker™”, and “Rodger Dodger” die-cast car designs grace Reebok’s new light-up Classic Leather Step ‘N’ Flash and Zig ‘N’ Glow sneaker silhouettes. Overarching design elements (featured across all models) include Hot Wheels and “Reebok Racing” tongue logos above “68” (1968) and “95” (1895) driver numbers nodding to each brand’s founding year, a Hot Wheels all-over branded collar lining, Hot Wheels heel logo, and an LED light up midsole with on/off functionality.

Classic Leather Step ‘N’ Flash “Night Shifter” (Toddler – $55, 100206925) (Pre-School – $65, 100206923): The unique sneaker featuring a glossy red upper and vamp pinstripes is inspired by the Hot Wheels “Night Shifter”.

Classic Leather Step ‘N’ Flash “Twin Mill” (Toddler – $55, 100206926) (Pre-School – $65, 100206924): The distinctive sneaker design features a stealth black upper with hits of gold and red and a “Twin Mill” inspired flame detail on the quarter panel. 

Zig ‘N’ Glow “Bone Shaker” (Toddler – $55, 100206930) (Pre-School – $65, 100206928): The creative sneaker design includes a smooth red upper with a gold Reebok crosscheck, “Bone Shaker” inspired chrome gold side stripes, and a Zig-shaped outsole. 

Zig ‘N’ Glow “Rodger Dodger” (Toddler – $55, 100206929) (Pre-School – $65, 100206927): The unique sneaker design features a vibrant yellow and black upper, “Rodger Dodger” inspired flame detail on the quarter panel, and a Zig-shaped outsole.

The Hot Wheels x Reebok kids footwear collection is available globally beginning April 25, from Reebok.com and select retailers.

*Source: The NPD Group Inc./Retail Tracking Service/G11/Total Toy Industry/Units/Annual 2017

About Mattel   

Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends™, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Matchbox ®, Monster High®, MEGA® and Polly Pocket®, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies.  

About Reebok

Reebok is an iconic and irreverent sports culture brand with a rich and storied fitness heritage dating back to 1895. Founded on athletic footwear that changed the direction of sport, Reebok continues to introduce innovations that propel the industry forward. Today, Reebok sits at the intersection of active, lifestyle, and sport, offering high quality and modern styles that are adaptable for every occasion. The brand strives to deliver every athlete, from professionals to enthusiasts, with the opportunity, products, and inspiration to reach their full potential. Reebok currently operates in 80 countries with approximately 400 freestanding stores around the world. For more information, visit Reebok.com or for the latest news at News.Reebok.com. Discover Reebok on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

Reebok kids via 360 MAGAZINE.
Reebok kids via 360 MAGAZINE.

Top 10 Gift Ideas

for Ford Enthusiasts

Are you looking to surprise a Ford aficionado with a gift that truly captures their passion for this iconic brand? Whether they’re into classic Mustangs, rugged F-150 trucks, or simply love the Ford logo, a vast array of Ford-themed gifts are sure to delight. Here’s a detailed list of 10 fantastic gift ideas for the Ford enthusiast in your life.

1. Ford Apparel

Ford apparel is a classic choice for any fan. Consider gifting a high-quality t-shirt, hoodie, or cap featuring their favorite Ford model or logo. The options are endless—choose from vintage-inspired designs celebrating historic models like the Mustang or contemporary styles featuring the sleek lines of the latest Ford vehicles. Look for officially licensed merchandise to ensure authenticity and durability, making these apparel pieces perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.

2. Ford Model Replicas

Miniature replicas of classic Ford models are ideal for collectors or automotive enthusiasts. These detailed models capture the essence of beloved Ford vehicles like the Mustang GT, Thunderbird, or even iconic pickup trucks. Whether displayed on a desk, shelf, or in a glass cabinet, these replicas make eye-catching additions to any collection and serve as a tangible reminder of Ford’s rich automotive heritage.

3. Ford Logo Accessories

Add a touch of Ford flair to everyday items with logo accessories. Consider gifting Ford-branded keychains, phone cases, or even cufflinks for a subtle yet stylish way to showcase their passion for the brand. These accessories make great stocking stuffers or thoughtful additions to any enthusiast’s collection of gear.

4. Ford Garage Decor

Transform their garage or workspace into a Ford enthusiast’s paradise with branded decor items. Think vintage-style metal signs featuring classic Ford advertisements, neon wall clocks adorned with Ford models, or durable floor mats decorated with the iconic blue oval. These decorative pieces create a personalized space that celebrates their love for Ford.

5. Ford-Themed Tools

For the practical Ford fan who loves DIY projects, consider Ford-branded tools. Look for toolboxes, wrench sets, or multi-tools featuring the Ford logo. Not only are these tools functional and durable, but they also add a unique touch to any workshop or garage setup. Whether they’re tackling automotive projects or household repairs, these tools will surely be appreciated.

6. Ford Racing Merchandise

Fuel their passion for speed with Ford racing merchandise. From apparel inspired by Ford’s racing teams to scale-model race cars, these gifts celebrate Ford’s performance heritage and racing victories. Whether they’re a fan of NASCAR or rally racing, there’s a wide range of racing-themed gifts to choose from that will get their heart racing.

7. Ford Books and Magazines

Delve into the history and legacy of Ford with books or magazines that showcase the brand’s evolution over the years. Choose titles covering Ford’s iconic models, engineering innovations, or even biographies of Henry Ford himself. These insightful reads make great additions to any enthusiast’s library and offer fascinating insights into the world of Ford.

8. Ford-Themed Home Goods

Extend their passion for Ford into their home with themed home goods. Consider Ford-logoed drinkware like mugs or tumblers, cozy blankets featuring classic Ford designs, or throw pillows adorned with the blue oval logo. These home decor items add a touch of Ford spirit to their living space, making them feel right at home with their favorite brand.

9. Ford Car Care Products

Help them maintain their Ford vehicle with specialized car care products. Choose from detailing kits, car wax, or seat covers designed specifically for Ford models. Practical and thoughtful, these gifts show that you care about their vehicle’s upkeep and ensure they can keep their Ford looking its best for years to come.

10. Ford Experience

For the ultimate gift, consider a Ford experience package. Many enthusiasts dream of driving a Mustang on a racetrack or exploring off-road trails in an F-150. Look for driving courses, adventure tours, or track days offered by Ford or third-party providers. These experiential gifts create lasting memories and allow them to fully immerse themselves in the world of Ford.

When selecting any of these gifts, consider the recipient’s specific interests within the Ford brand. Whether they’re a collector, a racing aficionado, or simply proud of their Ford ownership, tailor your choice to match their passion. Be sure to shop from authorized retailers or directly from Ford to ensure the authenticity and quality of the merchandise.

In conclusion, finding the perfect gift for a Ford enthusiast is about celebrating their love for this iconic brand. With this diverse list of gift ideas, you’re well-equipped to surprise them with a thoughtful and memorable present that reflects their Ford fandom. From stylish apparel to unique collectibles and experiential gifts, these ideas are bound to rev up their enthusiasm for everything Ford. Embrace their passion and make their day with a gift that speaks to their love for all things Ford.