The Hispanic Heritage Foundation (HHF) announced on August 04, 2022, that Victoria Alonso, a powerful Latina presence in Hollywood and an executive producer of Marvel Studios’ biggest global film releases, will receive the 2022 Vision Award during the 35th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards. The historic program, which was created by the White House to commemorate the establishment of Hispanic Heritage Month in America, is among the highest honors by Latinos for Latinos and supported by 40 national Hispanic-serving institutions. Presented by TARGET with Official Broadcast Sponsorship by Nationwide, the 35th Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards. will air Friday, September 30th on PBS stations and stream on pbs.org and the PBS Video app. Alonso will be honored alongside recently revealed Arts Honoree Los Lobos, and additional celebrated Latino artists and visionaries to be announced shortly.
“The Hispanic Heritage Foundation is thrilled to honor Victoria Alonso’s incredible career as an executive for Marvel Studios, but, moreover, as an actionable leader in ensuring the industry’s representation looks and sounds like what the world looks and sounds like in an authentic way,” said Jose Antonio Tijerino, president and CEO, HHF. “Her elevated position as a Latina in Hollywood and corporate America cannot be overstated as our stories are told at a global level. It’s our turn to tell her story and celebrate our community’s accomplishment, cultural pride, and great promise.”
A native of Buenos Aires, Victoria Alonso moved to the U.S. on her own at the age of 19. She worked her way up through the film and TV industry, beginning as a PA before working at the VFX powerhouse Digital Domain. She served as VFX producer on a number of films, including Ridley Scott’s Kingdom of Heaven, Tim Burton’s Big Fish, Andrew Adamson’s Shrek and Marvel’s Iron Man. She won the Visual Effects Society (VES) Award for outstanding supporting visual effects/motion picture for Kingdom of Heaven, with two additional nominations shared for Iron Man.
Victoria joined Marvel as the company’s executive vice president of visual effects and post production, doubling as co-producer on Iron Man, a role she reprised on Iron Man 2, Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger. In 2011, she was upped to executive producer on the blockbuster hit The Avengers, a role she has maintained on all Marvel Studios’ releases since then, including Iron Man 3, Captain America: Civil War, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Strange,Spider-Man: Homecoming, Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War, Captain Marvel, Avengers: Endgame, Spider-Man: Far From Home, Black Widow, Spider-Man: No Way Home and, most recently, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Thor: Love and Thunder. During her tenure at the studio, Marvel films have amassed over $27 billion in global box office. In addition to executive producer, Alonso also serves as the studio’s President, Physical and Post Production, Visual Effects, and Animation Production.
Alonso has become an important voice in Hollywood as a producer, a Latina, and a senior female executive. She was honored with the Visionary Award at the 2021 Outfest Legacy Awards. In both 2019 and 2020, she was named one of People en Español Magazine’s top “Poderosa” Most Influential Hispanic Women. On multiple occasions, she has been named to Variety’s Power of Women L.A. Impact Report and The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Power 100. With numerous other industry awards to her credit, 2019 also saw Alonso become the first woman ever to receive the key to La Plata, the capital city of Buenos Aires, where she was born.
Alonso is now joining Arts Honoree Los Lobos, A small sampling of previous HHA winners across the last 35 years include Rita Moreno, Celia Cruz, Tito Puente, Gloria Estefan, Justice Sonia Sotomayor, Martin Sheen, Ricky Martin, Rubén Blades, Fania All-Stars, José Feliciano, Los Tigres Del Norte, Anthony Quinn, Juanes, Diego Luna, Juan Luis Guerra, and right up to the continued relevancy of recent winners such as Carlos Santana, Linda Ronstadt, Bad Bunny, Ivy Queen, Zoe Saldana, Residente, Selena Gomez and more inspiring figures ranging from essential farmworkers to pioneering NASA engineers.
Vaughn Lowery, the president of 360 MAGAZINE, has always strived for positive social change. He graduated from Cornell University‘s ILR School. From there, he became active in modeling, acting and publishing.
A decade or more, Vaughn Lowery became notable when he appeared in Kmart’s smash commercial – Joe Boxer. It helped the retailer roughly sell 20 million dollars per week. By becoming an exclusive spokesperson, he appeared with Leeza Gibbons on Extra, Katie Couric on Today Show, and Jay Leno on The Tonight Show.
At the culmination of college, he relocated to New York City; and thus, Vaughn began a career as an actor and model. It was there where celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine set him up with a fashion photographer, Fadil Berisha. Above Joe Boxer, he worked as a successful print model for many companies such as GAP, Old Navy, as well as a runway model for Tommy Hilfiger, Phat Farm, and Karl Kani. He has graced the pages of Elle, Cosmopolitan and Glamour. Additionally, he flipped the Houston Chronicle.
Years back, ABC News Primetime aired a segment chronicling his life, along with the tragic John Ritter story. Vaughn has also filmed a Super Bowl commercial, completed a high-profile Dasani Water billboard ad campaign, appeared on America’sNext Top Model, guest-starred on the comedy, Scrubs, and screened his controversial 35mm festival film, The Young & Evil, at Sundance 2009. Having been represented by major industry players such as NEXT, he was also named Seventeen Magazine’s 17 Hot Guys. His hindmost project TheCompany We Keep boasts director Roy Campanella II along with comedic co-star Leslie Jones. At present, Vaughn wrote a short, Chasen Life, which won a writing competition. He adapted audiobook Say Uncle into a feature-length film, pitched a reality series and is in the process of architecting an immersive design experience.
Futher, 360 MAGAZINE was named Business of the Month by the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce [NGLCC]. The NGLCC is the business voice of the LGBT community, the largest advocacy organization dedicated to expanding economic opportunities and advancements for LGBT people, and the exclusive certifying body for LGBT-owned businesses. It possesses deep affiliations with FORTUNE 100 Fastest Growing Companies.
the Human Rights Campaign (HRC)—the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization—launched the Reality Flag campaign: An ambitious, nationwide public awareness campaign to highlight the many basic freedoms missing for LGBTQ+ people in states across the country, and to galvanize public support for the Equality Act—historic federal legislation that would ensure comprehensive nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people everywhere. At the heart of the campaign is the evocative Reality Flag—an altered version of the American flag with 29 of its stars removed, representing each of the 29 states lacking comprehensive protections for LGBTQ+ people, underscoring the ‘reality’ that millions of LGBTQ+ people lack a number of protections and basic freedoms.
The Reality Flag campaign aims to bring its message and powerful imagery to audiences both on and offline: As the campaign debuts HERE and across a number of national media platforms, an 85-foot-long banner featuring the “Reality Flag” will be unfurled and fanned out across the front of the Human Rights Campaign’s iconic headquarters in Washington, D.C., just six blocks from the White House. But the campaign’s most compelling content launches in a series of powerful video ads created by Emmy Award-winning director, producer, and creator of Amazon’sTransparent, Joey Soloway, who showcases the real stories and lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people impacted by discrimination—using the video vignettes to not only underscore the urgent need for the Equality Act but to also inspire and move audiences to take action.
“The Reality Flag campaign is designed to point out the inequalities LGBTQ+ individuals face every day—in our own voice,” said Joni Madison, Interim President at the Human Rights Campaign. “From housing and educational discrimination to denial of government and health services, LGBTQ+ people are confronted by hurdles to simply exist every day. Something is seriously wrong when state legislatures around the country are attacking LGBTQ+ rights for political purposes, forcing families to pack up their homes and move to another state so their children can have equal rights and legal protections. This needs to change. The Reality Flag not only calls out the 29 states where basic freedoms are still missing for millions of people but stands as a symbol of hope that communities can rally behind to enact meaningful change.”
Nearly two-thirds of LGBTQ+ people have reported experiencing discrimination in their personal lives. The Equality Act would provide consistent and explicit federal non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people across key areas of life—including housing, credit, education, public spaces and services, federally funded programs, and jury service. Millions of LGBTQ+ people in the United States remain vulnerable to being evicted from their homes, kicked out of a business that’s open to the public, surcharged unnecessarily for goods and services, or denied health care, home loans, taxis/car-sharing, and government services in a majority of states simply because of who they love or who they are.
“When I was approached about partnering with HRC on this campaign, I jumped at the opportunity and immediately signed on—not only because of the important opportunity to help lift up stories and amplify the voices of LGBTQ+ people across the country but because I believe this campaign has the potential to fundamentally shift the conversation around equality in a way that brings more people together than ever before to ensure we are all equally protected and represented under the law,” said Joey Soloway. “Just meeting and working with the amazing LGBTQ+ people who shared their stories of discrimination in front of the camera meant so much to so many of us behind the camera—especially since a majority in our production crew identify as LGBTQ+ and could relate to the experiences of the brave storytellers we worked with. It’s an honor to be able to do this work, and to be a part of this important campaign.”
The Campaign: Showcasing LGBTQ+ Stories, Reaching Tens of Millions
The Reality Flag campaign, produced in partnership with a team of agencies from worldwide marketing communications leader WPP, will roll out over the course of several weeks, which will include limited production of printed flags as well as compelling content debuting across traditional and social media platforms. While the campaign seeks to galvanize public support for the Equality Act—and driving audiences to take action—it also underscores the importance of lifting up and showcasing the real stories and lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people impacted by discrimination. These stories (primarily featured in the video vignettes created by Soloway) will be amplified through both anadvertising campaign (including partnerships with 20 national media platforms, achieving an anticipated 30 million-plus impressions during launch, including TV, print, display, video, audio, cinema, OOH, social, and search) and an influencer activation campaign (working with major national influencers committed to amplifying campaign content and videos across networks reaching tens of millions of followers).
Several of the LGBTQ+ people introduced to audiences in the campaign—and whose stories of experiencing discrimination are showcased in the video vignettes created by Soloway—include:
Staci J (Indiana): Staci is a proud Navy veteran who served to protect the freedoms and rights of others at all costs. But, despite that pledge, a doctor in Minnesota refused to treat her or even touch her because she found out Staci is a lesbian. Staci did everything the U.S. asked of her, and more, yet was still denied healthcare simply because of who she loves.
Queen (Georgia): Queen is a transgender woman who experienced a denial of freedom at the hands of a North Carolina landlord. Queen called the landlord to make a repair, and once inside Queen’s home, he spotted a transgender flag. The two had a conversation about the flag, and he then proceeded to berate Queen for, “not living according to traditional American values.” Shortly after, he asked Queen to move out. Queen was denied the ability to keep housing simply because of gender.
Sara and Parker Cunningham (Oklahoma): Sara Cunningham is an author, activist, and founder of the non-profit, Free Mom Hugs, an organization that seeks to empower the world to celebrate and fight for the LGBTQ+ community through visibility, education, and conversation. Sara and her gay son, Parker, live in Oklahoma where he could be denied the freedom to live a life free of discrimination. Today, in his town, a business could deny him service simply because he is gay.
The Need for the Equality Act
In February 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Equality Act The Act ensures LGBTQ+ people can live free from fear of harassment and discrimination by guaranteeing the same federal anti-discrimination protections and basic freedoms that others have enjoyed for decades—and expands protections for women, people of color, and people of all faiths.
“Many LGBTQ+ people across the country are still missing the basic freedoms that millions of others enjoy,” said JoDee Winterhof, Senior Vice President, Policy & Political Affairs. “Too many people—both those directly affected and those who aren’t—are not fully aware of the true scope of the disparities. The Reality Flag is intended to be a wake-up call for the country. By bringing attention to the stories of those whose rights are being curtailed, the campaign will build support for action to bring an end to those disparities.”The Equality Act has been endorsed by more than 630 organizations, including civil rights, education, health care, and faith-based organizations. It is backed by more than 500 companies employing more than 15.3 million people across 33 U.S. states with a combined annual revenue of $7.2 trillion. It has overwhelming support among business and corporate leaders, which includes more than 60 business associations—including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Business Roundtable, and the National Association of Manufacturers—and more than 160 Fortune 500 companies, including Coca-Cola, General Electric, Harley-Davidson, Home Depot, Honeywell, Kraft Heinz, Levi Strauss & Co., and Target, among many others.
The GOOD DESIGN® awards recognize the top new products bestowed annually by The Chicago Athenaeum in cooperation with the European Centre for Architecture, Art, Design, and Urban Studies. Founded in Chicago in 1950, GOOD DESIGN® is the oldest and most respected program awarding design excellence worldwide. This year, the museum received a record number of submissions from an international roster of top manufacturers and industrial and graphic design firms representing 50 countries.
“We are honored to receive these accolades for our work–a real measure of excellence–and we thank the distinguished judges and the design community as a whole,” said Lauren Rottet when referencing the Artis Chair, a sculptural swivel chair that exemplifies function and relaxation.
The Dichroic Table, Powerful Table Collection, Montauk Upholstered Guest, and Wood Float Chair and Sofa were also celebrated by the New York Product Design Awards. Rottet’s continued exploration of light, color, and reflection is highlighted with her Dichroic Table while her Powerful Table Collection elegantly promotes both beauty and function. The Montauk Upholstered Guest Chair embodies stability and comfort with a lively twist while the Wood Float Chair and Sofa explore the amalgam of solid walnut and clear acrylic.
About Lauren Rottet
Lauren Rottet is the Founding Principal and President ofRottet Studio, an international architecture and interior design firm, which has been recognized as one of the Top 3 Most Admired Design Firms in the World. The firm has an extensiveportfolioof corporate, hospitality, residential, and maritime projects for the world’s leading companies and brands, including Goldman Sachs, Disney, BGC3, New York Stock Exchange, Target, Four Seasons, Langham, Dorchester Collection, Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt, Hilton, Belmond, Naftali Group, Extell Development’s Central Park Tower, Viking Ocean Cruises, and more. “I am not sure I have seen someone who is as skilled in such a wide vernacular of design styles from contemporary minimal to elegantly traditional in such an authentic manner,” said critic Paul Goldberger. Rottet’s product designs have earned many accolades, including Interior Design’s Best of Year, four gold medals for Best of NeoCon, and seven Chicago Athenaeum GOOD DESIGN Awards.
Emmy-nominated actor, comedian, pastor and author Kel Mitchell released his new book Blessed Mode on December 14, 2021. Blessed Mode currently is the #1 new release and #1 best seller in youth Christian ministry. The book follows Kel’s moving 90-day challenge where he believes that when you place focus your faith and trust in God, blessings will follow.
Starring in Nickelodeons’ Kenan & Kel, All That and feature film Good Burger, Kel has had a vast career in the entertainment industry. Now, in his new book, Kel shares his spiritual side with the world. Kel personally knows the battles of depression and addiction, but aims to communicate that power he found through God’s presence. Kel trusts in the freedom and blessings that he believes comes from his relationship with his faith in God. Kel aims to share his testimony of hope with the next generation, and even serves as a youth pastor at Spirit Food Christian Center.
In Blessed Mode, Kel offers 90 strong devotions to support his audience, including:
Find freedom in God’s life-changing presence.
Experience God’s power through prayer.
Recognize God’s many gifts in your life.
Share the blessings you’ve received with others.
Kel speaks on the book, stating, “As you read through the pages of Blessed Mode, you will learn that in every emotional wall there is a blessed way out! You will be breaking through these walls widening that crack of light a little bit, day by day, so you can discover God’s blessings on you. I hope this book can inspire others to embrace their blessings and find strength spiritually, mentally and physically! Life is a beautiful blessing giving to us by God! I cannot wait to show the world this side of me and how to activate BLESSED MODE!!”
Set for release on Nov. 19 from Walt Disney Records, the Encanto Original Motion Picture Soundtrack features eight original songs by Tony and Grammy-winning songwriter/composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”) with score by award-winning composer Germaine Franco (“Dora and the Lost City of Gold,” “Little,” “Tag”). Sebastiaĭn Yatra performs the original song “Dos Oruguitas” in Spanish in the film, as well as “Two Oruguitas,” the English language version of the song, in the end-credits. Previously announced artist Carlos Vives performs “Colombia, Mi Encanto.” The soundtrack is available now for pre-order. The physical soundtrack will be available on Dec. 17. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto” opens in theaters November 24, 2021.
Born in Medellin, Colombia and raised in Miami, Latin GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter Yatra said, “It’s always been a dream of mine to be a part of a Disney movie and it really hits the heart when it’s a Disney movie about my country and showing the best of what we have to offer, which is love and family and miracles.”
“Dos Oruguitas” marked a first for Miranda. “This is the first song I ever wrote beginning to end in Spanish,” he says. “It’s about the journey of Mirabel’s grandparents, their realization that sometimes you have to let go, you have to do the impossible.” The song is performed in the film in Spanish by Yatra.
On diving into the music of the Colombian-set story, Miranda said “A lot of the rhythms are familiar to me, but the instrumentation and orchestration is different and often unique to Colombia. One of the most fun things is that the accordion is so central to the music. It was really a joy immersing myself in artists I didn’t know and doing deeper dives into those I’ve grown up loving like Carlos Vives, who we’re lucky enough to work with on this movie. This entire process has been about falling in love with Colombian music and culture and getting to play in that space.”
The Encanto Original Motion Picture Soundtrack features eight original songs and a full original score, plus one reprise and one end-credit version of a song from the film. The digital version of the soundtrack also includes instrumental versions of the songs.
The Songs of Encanto
“The Family Madrigal” – performed by Stephanie Beatriz, Olga Merediz & Cast
“Waiting on a Miracle” – performed by Stephanie Beatriz
“Surface Pressure” – performed by Jessica Darrow
“We Don’t Talk About Bruno” – performed by Carolina Gaiten, Mauro Castillo, Adassa, Rhenzy Feliz, Diane Guerrero, Stephanie Beatriz & Cast
“What Else Can I Do?” – performed by Diane Guerrero & Stephanie Beatriz
“Dos Oruguitas” – performed by Sebastiaĭn Yatra
“All of You” – performed by Stephanie Beatriz, Olga Merediz, John Leguizamo, Adassa, Maluma & Cast
“Colombia, Mi Encanto” – performed by Carlos Vives
“Two Oruguitas” – English language end-credit version of “Dos Oruguitas” performed by Sebastiaĭn Yatra
Award-winning composer Germaine Franco is behind the original score for “Encanto.” Franco worked closely with filmmakers and Miranda to create a signature score that complemented the songs and story.
“Encanto” is directed by Byron Howard (“Zootopia,” “Tangled”) and Jared Bush (co-director “Zootopia”), co-directed by Charise Castro Smith (writer “The Death of Eva Sofia Valdez”) and produced by Clark Spencer and Yvett Merino. Bush and Castro Smith are screenwriters on the film.
In the film, the magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal every child except one, Mirabel. But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope. The voice cast includes Stephanie Beatriz, Maria Cecilia Botero, Wilmer Valderrama, Adassa, Diane Guerrero, Mauro Castillo, Angie Cepeda, Jessica Darrow, Rhenzy Feliz and Carolina Gaitaĭn.
Looking for Halloween costumes can be difficult, especially when there are so many costumes and places to choose from! It’s hard to know where to look, especially since so many of the year’s most popular costumes require either a high knowledge of sewing or high a payment at a costume shop. Chances are you might be able to find a Bridgerton dress in your grandmother’s attic, but a Harley Quinn bat or a Cruella wig might be harder. So, I’ve examined a list of over twenty different online retailers to find the best places to buy from, considering price, quality, and selection. I’ve done my research and looked at all the biggest costumes for 2021, including Wanda Maximoff and Loki from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, to determine the best overall options. Here are the best outfits for…
Your Wallet
Overall, Amazon and Party City have the lowest costs. Because of Amazon’s wide selection, you’re likely to find inexpensive stuff and a wide variety if you just do some digging. You may spend more at Party City, but shipping is from a store location and not an individual seller, so shipping in this case can be cheaper. If you don’t want to support either of those large businesses, you may be out of luck. Shopping on smaller online shops like Candy Apple may provide you with cheaper goods, but you’ll have to do a bit of digging and might not get attire in the condition that you’re hoping for. Another solution is to consider thrifting your Halloween costume. While it is unlikely that you will find a brand new, full, cost-effective costume, thrifting can be a great way to find several pieces at a good price over time if you are planning on being a more modern character.
Your Specific Taste
Obsessed with dressing like a Squid Game character after your latest binge watch? Although the show just came out, there are already retailers who’ve designed the show’s iconic jumpsuits and mask for costumed purposes. Amazon again is the most reliable deliverer with its wide user base, having the full Squid Game outfit. But Walmart has a decent selection as well. Furthermore, I’ve found is the best place to buy black gloves for an Olivia Rodrigo “Good 4 u” inspired look. You can find some bizarre stuff on Etsy, including unique, well-made garments, jewelry, or period pieces. For sexy getups, check out Yandy. They have a hot and steamy selection for the holiday.
Your Need for the Best Quality
On every site, the caliber will differ, besides a few retail stores with online options (i.e. Party City, Spirit Halloween) where the worth will be consistent but not necessarily the best quality (particularly Party City). Again, Amazon takes the cake in terms of value just from the selection they have and the large number of reviews, proving them as a reliable option. Other stores can be a gamble as they tend to not have the best reviews, and pictures can only say so much.
Your Kids
One of my favorite stores for kids’ selection is Target, which offers different apparel for different age groups, making it easier for parents to know whether an outfit will fit their child. Target is a relatively cost-efficient option as well. For a bit pricier but higher quality option, the Disney store can also be a great fit for those wanting an Elsa dress/wig, or any other Disney or Marvel character for your little prince, princess, or hero!
Conclusion
Halloween is a wonderfully fun holiday and there are many great places to buy party garbs for spooky season. Amazon is probably still the most reliable and consistent due to their high volume of product movement, but there are many great places to check out for those who, understandably, don’t want to support Jeff Bezos. Happy shopping, and happy Halloween!
Looking for the best baby present? Wondering what to gift a friend’s or family member’s baby is hard for most people, especially if you haven’t had kids. The best baby gift can be tricky, especially if it’s past the baby shower or if no information is given. But the best gift would be something thoughtful and useful and may be even better with touches of personalization. At 360 Magazine, we’ve put together a list of the best new baby gifts and useful baby gear.
Bumkins
Bumkin’s mission is to create fun, smart, and responsibly made products that support the developing needs and milestones of littles and make life simpler for moms, dads, and caregivers.
Bumkins was honored to partner with Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation for their annual #BeKind21 challenge. By participating, we pledged to be kind to ourselves and our community for 21 days as we commit to making kindness a habit. The collaboration includes bibs for all sizes that are quick, adjustable, and lightweight.
Gorgeous fall finery from the Feltman Brothers: their clothing is the perfect gift to give a new family or to get for your own children. With impeccable attention to detail in every piece, these outfits make a statement about the importance of quality. Get the vintage look while keeping warm.
Since 1916, Feltman Brothers has been providing the world with authentic and timeless clothing for babies and young children. This reputation is the result of a strong commitment to quality, incomparable fabrics, exclusive designs, and attention to detail. Feltman Brothers designs reflect the elegance of heirloom vintage styling for children, perfect for all occasions. Their pieces reflect a level of workmanship that has no equal. Feltman Brothers is, and always has been, a family business, three generations deep and continuing strong.
Shop Feltman Brothers latest fall collection here.
Geomag
It’s not always easy to make learning interesting but Geomag’s new range of Supercolor sets makes certain that children and adults alike will continue to nurture that curiosity to explore and create and above all else, have fun whilst doing it. The Geomag Supercolor sets, available in 35, 52 or 78 pieces, contain a mixture of panels, magnetic rods and metal spheres offer an explosion of new colors to allow building bigger and brighter stable structures.
Even the most demanding of creative spirits will not fail to be challenged inventing and building endless numbers of three-dimensional structures. The Geomag Supercolor 114 Piece Set can be found at Target.
Little Medical School
Children are cognizant of the medical world now more than ever because of the Pandemic. Whether it’s taking care of family, friends or pets, children have developed a greater passion for helping and healing this year.
Little Medical School, a national franchise offering hands-on interactive programs to stimulate interest in medical science recently developed a new product line just in time for the holidays.
The birth of a baby is a milestone event in a family’s life. And, what better gift to celebrate the memorable occasion than the beautiful Pointelle Wrap Set and Knit Blanket from Feltman Brothers.
A timeless, vintage style knit set for your baby. This white 3-piece set features a classic pointelle design for an heirloom style – great as a take-me-home outfit, gift set, or for special occasions. Retails at $89.99.
Super convenient for quick changes – separate top and pants, and opens down the side.
Footies will keep baby’s tiny toes nice and cozy.
Includes a matching knit bonnet to finish off that adorable, timeless look!
Matching Blanket not included and can be purchased separately.
If you tend to use your tools a lot, you’ll know that they can become dirty and damaged after a while. However, a lot of people know that if you take care of your tools they will take care of you.
Below you will find a few tips that can help you to look after your tools so they last longer:
Use the Right Tool for the Job
If you want to keep your tools in good condition you will need to use the right tool for the right job. This may seem obvious, but you’ll be surprised at how many people don’t do this. If you use the wrong tool, there’s always a chance that you could damage it and even injure yourself.
Keep Them Organized
One of the best ways to look after your tools is to keep them organized. Again, this may seem obvious, but it’s a great way to keep them in good condition. It also helps to prevent you from using the wrong tool.
Imagine not keeping your tools organized, they could end up sitting in a pile on the corner of a worktop. When tools aren’t organized they can break under the weight of others or fall on the floor and become damaged.
Repair Your Tools Right Away
If your tools become slightly damaged, you should repair them right away. You can do this with a good metal adhesive. If you leave your tools to become even more damaged they won’t work as well as they should. In addition to this, they could even cause injuries.
If you don’t think you can repair your tool because it’s completely broken, invest in a new one. Just make sure you take good care of the replacement so that it lasts longer. Your bank account will thank you for this.
Don’t Drop Your Tools
While you might think that your tools are tough, they can become damaged if they are dropped. It’s all too easy to drop your tools on a hard floor after you’re done using them. However, this can damage them. Tools can still break no matter how tough they may be. Treat them with care and they will look after you. If you have to drop your tools, do it carefully and onto a surface that isn’t too hard. However, you should avoid dropping them completely if you can.
Keep Your Tools Clean
You don’t need to clean your tools after every time you have used them. However, you do need to keep them clean. The cleaner your tools are, the less likely they are to work well. Give your tools a clean to get rid of the grime, dirt, and dust. Sometimes just a quick wipe with a damp cloth can make a lot of difference. Just be sure that your tools are completely dry before you put them back in your toolbox.
Use the above tips to help you to take care of your tools so they continue to work well for you.
“Jaguar Century: 100 Years of Automotive Excellence” by Giles Chapman
“Jaguar Century” is a lavishly illustrated large-format retrospective examining 100 years of Jaguar, one of the most acclaimed marques in automotive history. Established in 1922 by William Lyons and William Walmsley, the Swallow Sidecar Company transformed into one of the auto industry’s most revered car brands, synonymous with performance and luxury. “Jaguar Century” chronicles this company and its remarkable vehicles, from the 1935 Jaguar SS sporting saloon to today’s F-Type sports cars, F-PACE SUV, and X-Type sedans—filled with images, history, and in-depth analyses of the incredible cars Jaguar has created year after year.
Automotive historian Giles Chapman showcases how company visionaries developed the brand in the trying economic times leading up to World War II before resetting Jaguar during England’s bleak postwar years. “Jaguar Century” will make a great addition to any holiday gift list, just in time for the marque’s 100 anniversary next year.
Publishing September 28, 2021 by Motorbooks ∙ Hardcover, 224 pages ∙ $75.00 US, $99.00 CAN ISBN: 9780760368664
“DAMANHUR Social Alchemy, Magical Temples and the Superindividual” by Jeff Merrifield
What is Damanhur? It is an alternative way of life. A societal model for the betterment of humanity, an experiment in human consciousness. A collective of people devoted to the sustainability of communal living; an ecovillage and spiritual community based in Northern Italy. Founded by Falco Tarassaco in the mid-70s, Damanhur has grown from humble beginnings to become a prime mover in spiritual-artistic standing and research and the ecological protection of the planet.
In Jeff Merrifield’s book, he writes with reverence about this community that has fascinated him for over two decades. His book is an introduction to the intricacies, philosophies and structures of the seemingly closed-off Damanhur, the guide to the lessons of this community.
DAMANHUR Social Alchemy, Magical Temples and the Superindividual by JEFF MERRIFIELD (10th August; Watkins/Penguin Random House; £18.99/$29.95; 9781786783707
“Move Like Water × Be Fluid” is a stunning memoir documenting the author’s journey from a childhood in the Detroit’s subsidized, section 8 housing to a successful career in fashion and media. The arc of this remarkable passage twists and turns in surprising ways, ensuring readers will believe in the concept that this life truly is what you make it. The text will debut as an exclusive multi-volume installation within 360 MAGAZINE and marks the inception of the brand’s foray into publishing.
This provocative coming-of-age story explores the power of branding strategy, a technique the writer developed at an early age and carried with him throughout his lifetime. Lowery, from the time he was a young child, is able to comprehend that one’s innate, individual self is their greatest commodity in life. Through the highs and lows that inform his experience, he stays true to that ideal. Lowery puts forward a raw and compelling narrative of a child, and later a man, who repeatedly picks himself up, reimagines his life, and finds innovative ways to move forward.
Move Like Water x Be Fluid is available in PDF format on Blurb.
Signed copies of Vaughn’s memoir, Move Like Water × Be Fluid, are available in ourshop.
“Bodega Cat” by Louie Chin
Already a recipient of starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, Louie Chin’s “Bodega Cat” has been selected by the Junior Library Guild as a Spring 2020 Gold Standard in the City Elementary category. Referred to as “the subscription box for the modern librarian,” the Junior Library Guild plays a pivotal role in stocking library inventories nationwide with the highest caliber of books for children. Of the thousands of applicants, only 3% receive this annual distinction and over 95% of JLG Gold Standard books go on to win other book awards. Congratulations to Louie Chin, and to editor Jordan Nielsen!
Born and raised in New York, Louie Chin is an illustrator who creates commercial and editorial content. He has always been an animal-lover, and there is one family pet in particular from which he drew inspiration for “Bodega Cat”: a spirited and feisty orange tabby cat named Simba. His favorite bodega order is coffee and an egg and sausage sandwich on a toasted roll. “Bodega Cat” is the first book that he both wrote and illustrated. He currently resides in Brooklyn, New York.
Animals & Cats / City & Town Life / People & Places, Hispanic & Latino Hardcover, 10.5 x 10.5 Inches, 32 Pages ISBN: 978-1-57687-932-0, $17.99 US/$23.99 CAN
“The Fragile Skin of the World” by Jean-Luc Nancy
The world is everything that passes between us – ourselves and everything that happens to us, everything that becomes of our contacts, our gazes, our movements; and through referrals from skin to skin, from the fleeting to the immemorial, you reach without even knowing it the entire actuality of the world: the act of its existence. This act is made up of works and disasters, splendors, horrors, and catastrophes. As long as it is ours, it is the act of an infinite emergence that is all the sense there is: a sense that incessantly goes from skin to skin and is itself never enveloped by anything.
The texts in this volume are all oriented by the concern for what is currently happening to us – we, late humanoids – when we arrive at an extremity of our history, whether this extremity should turn out to be a stage, a rupture, or quite simply a last breath.
Jean-Luc Nancy is Professor Emeritus of Philosophy at Université Marc Bloch in Strasbourg and teaches Political Philosophy and Media Aesthetics at the European Graduate School in Saas-Fee.“The Fragile Skin of the World” will be published in November 2021.
“Passion for Practice with Musings From Music Masters” by Becky Chaffee
Becky’s new book for anyone playing an instrument, Passion For Practice With Musings From Music Masters, is an imaginative visual presentation expressing music practice concepts. Whether you take private lessons or you learned an instrument in grade school and need to take some lessons to get started again, this book will encourage you. The better you are, the more fun you’ll have. Regular practicing can be rough, but Ms. Chaffee’s book helps you to practice smarter, making it more of a fun challenge than rote practice.
Both an art book and a practice reference book, Passion For Practice With Musings From Music Masters contains personal practicing stories and suggestions from musicians around the world, including famous musicians, Grammy award-winning musicians, and principals of sections in major orchestras on all instruments. You might also enjoy her first book, Have Fun With Your Music to inspire young musicians to make practicing their own. Buy this book to inspire music practice or as a gift for a music teacher’s studio.
Becky Chaffee grew up in a musical household and raised two musical children. She has degrees in civil engineering from UC Berkeley and Cornell University. She enjoys playing flute for her music club. Through her music gifts company, Becky raises funds for music education and has distributed $1,000s to youth. Much of the artwork in her books is presented on note cards, prints and Tee shirts that sell in music stores and symphony gift shops such as the Brevard Music Center, Nashville and San Francisco Symphony Gift Shops, SW Strings, and so on.
TheFair Trade Handbook, Edited by Gavin Fridell, Zack Gross and Sean McHugh
Framed within the common goal of advancing trade justice and South-North solidarity, The Fair Trade Handbook presents a broad interpretation of fair trade and a wide-ranging dialogue between different viewpoints. Canadian researchers in particular have advanced a transformative vision of fair trade, rooted in the cooperative movement and arguing for a more central role for Southern farmers and workers. Contributors to this book look at the issues within global trade, and assess fair trade and how to make it more effective against the broader structures of the capitalist, colonialist, racist and patriarchal global economy. The debates and discussions are set within a critical development studies and critical political economy framework. However, this book will appeal to a wide range of readers, as it translates the key issues for a popular audience.
Dodge Viper by David Zatz
The story of Chrysler Corporation’s 1990s image-building V10-engined sportscar – now in eBook format! The Viper stunned Americans by showing that Dodge, known for tame cars and minivans, could make a brutal monster of a sports car. At Le Mans, Team Viper showed they could handle turns, too, winning its class at a fraction of the usual cost. This book covers the Viper from concept to rough rocket to world-class supercar.
This is not just a gushing tribute to the Dodge Viper, the author provides an objective view of the full story, using business, historical, and enthusiast perspectives. The book looks at the business case for each generation, the development stories and their outcomes, and describes some of the issues owners may have to watch out for, particularly in the early models.
True Teryn: The Last Lumenian Book 2 by S.G. Blaise
Princess Lilla finds herself tasked with recruiting the biggest and most dangerous army in the Seven Galaxies. However, the Teryn Emperor will not cooperate unless Lilla earns the blessing of the Guardian Goddess Laoise – no simple task! Is she willing to pay the price to bring her people a second chance at a new beginning?
Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo and Emily Skrutskie, this compelling and adventurous tale is set in a rich sci-fi fantasy world. The True Teryn is a captivating coming-of-age story with a diverse cast of characters, a powerful female lead, and a beautiful overarching message: you don’t have to be perfect to be a hero.
“At the heart of The Last Lumenian series, is the story of how young women struggle with today’s critical challenges, including: mental health, personal freedom, self-esteem and managing relationships amidst overwhelming expectations,” says Blaise. “I love hearing from my readers, how inspired they are by Princess Lilla, taking brave action in their own lives.”
True Teryn, (The Last Lumenian, #2) will be available on Amazon and at other booksellers on Dec. 7, 2021.
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story by Nikole Hannah-Jones
The 1619 Project comprises 18 essays, and 36 poems and works of fiction, all revolving around slavery in America, and how it continues to play a role in our society. By exploring America’s long past with slavery, the root of modern racism can be revealed. It’s both a deeply provocative and highly upsetting work. It doesn’t work to display a bright future for America, but instead provides a revealing, if depressing, narrative on the American experience.
This work acts as an expansion of the highly praised New York Times Magazine project, which was highly controversial at the time due to its conceit: that America wasn’t founded in 1776 with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, but in 1619 when the first African slaves were brought to the US and exploited.
A children’s book, presenting aspects of the novel’s contents in a way accessible for children, was also released. Titled, 1619 Project: Born on the Water, the book was written with help from Peabody award-winning author Renee Watson.
Author Nikole Hannah-Jones is a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter, who’s won a Peabody Award, two George Polk Awards, three National Magazine Awards, and the 2018 John Chancellor distinguished journalism award from Columbia University.
The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story by Nikole Hannah-Jones is available via Amazon.
“Ultimate Illustrated Guide to Sewing Clothes” by Joi Mahon
Joi Mahon, esteemed designer and fashion entrepreneur, teaches readers about necessary sewing skills in his new book, Ultimate Illustrated Guide to Sewing Clothes.
Joi simplifies and explains techniques used in sewing such as stich types, fabric qualities and just how to obtain perfect fit of a garment. He speaks on the book, stating, “I created the book to be a complete reference guide and it includes all my tips from over twenty-five years of professional sewing. I believe it will make an excellent addition to any sewer’s library with it’s modern and up to date illustrations and photography that is visually appealing.”
YONDER by Jabari Asim
YONDER is a new novel by Jabari Asim, one of the best writers we out there. And according to Evangeline Lawson’s brilliantly written review in The Washington Post, it is a must-read book for Black History Month, for Americans of all backgrounds, a necessary and different kind of addition to literature.
SENTIENT: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Humans Senses
In SENTIENT: How Animals Illuminate the Wonder of Our Human Senses (Atria Books; Hardcover; On Sale: February 22, 2022; $28.00; ISBN 9781982156558), Jackie Higgins explores the breadth of our capabilities as sentient beings through the lens of the animal kingdom. This book looks to animals to better understand the ways we sense and make sense of the world. Scientific research shows that there is more to unite, than divide us and that all creatures are built on the same foundations—a message of particular importance right now. Through their eyes, ears, skin, tongues, noses and more, we can uncover what it means to be human and rediscover the extraordinary in the ordinary waking moment.
UNSTOPPABLE: How I Found My Strength Through Love and Loss
Chiquis Rivera’s new memoir UNSTOPPABLE: How I Found My Strength Through Love and Loss (Atria Books; Hardcover; On Sale: February 8, 2022; $27.00; ISBN: 9781982180683) is an exploration of her recent triumphs and challenges. Rivera reveals the personal journey she went through after her mother passed, and how she was able to still follow her dreams and become a renowned singer and entrepreneur. Throughout UNSTOPPABLE, Rivera opens up to her audience revealing her life experiences that helped her obtain the strength she has today.
Word Up: The Life of Amanda Gorman
This biography captures the life of National Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman. This is an inspirational read that showcases her journey from her beginnings growing up with a speech impediment and a single mother. Ultimately, she thrived and eventually, at the age of 23, spoke at the inauguration of President Joe Biden.
“It’s a story with a happy ending,” says author Marc Shapiro. “Hollywood couldn’t have scripted it any better. This is real life and an object lesson to all the young women out there who are looking for a role model to inspire them to their full potential. Amanda Gorman is that role model.”
Author Marc Shapiro also wrote New York Times bestseller J.K. Rowling: The Wizard Behind Harry Potter and Justin Bieber: TheFever.
Enamel the Camel
Enamel wishes he were like all the other camels who live in Camel-lot, but his front teeth are bigger than anyone else’s. Enamel has an overbite, which he brushes to a bright, glowing shine. This makes Enamel different from his fellow camels and he’s the only camel who brushes his teeth. Because his teeth are so prominent, he gets teased at school. Despite kind words from Enamel’s friends, the bullying gets him down. After being teased one time too many during a student outing at the Big Palm Oasis, Enamel decides he’d rather be alone. But when an epic sandstorm blows in, Enamel saves the day. Using his teeth in a very “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” fashion, Enamel leads his scared classmates home to their worried parents. The town thanks him with an award for heroism, and everyone starts brushing their teeth and smiling.
Enamel the Camel is an upbeat humorous story for children about sticking out, stepping up, and the importance of good dental care written by Dr. Mike King, a pediatric dentist in New York City since 1986.
In his dental practice, Dr. Mike as he is called, uses jokes, magic tricks, and a calming nature to treat his young patients. Enamel the Camel is his latest book to help children understand and appreciate their teeth. He has pioneered the philosophy or “flossophy” as he likes to call it, that smiling and laughing should be part of a child’s dental experience.
Fierce Love by Susan Scott
Diving deep into the problems that often are imposed within relationships, Susan Scott investigates why relationships in the modern day and age have often been unsatisfactory. Reviewing the leading problems that typically affect the success of a romantic relationship, this book analyzes common mishaps and miscommunications that typically occur between partners. “Fierce Love” offers insight on communication tactics that are critical to a surviving, healthy relationship.
Scott refers to the current situation of relationships in America as a “communication crisis.” She continues by stating, “What gets talked about in a relationship, and how it gets talked about, determines whether a relationship will thrive, flat-line or fail. We often long for deep connection in our relationships, but we don’t know how to communicate well and sometimes withhold what we’re really thinking and feeling. This can lead to fighting, resentment or, worse, complacency where you are just going through the motions … more like roommates than two people in love. Enduring love happens one conversation at a time. Unfortunately, far too many are not innately equipped with the intuition, knowledge and skills to adeptly steer dialogues that way … and modern society reflects those shortcomings.”
The Other Side of Yet
Michelle Hord was no stranger to tragedy, having started her professional career as a producer on America’s Most Wanted, where she came face to face with the unthinkable on a daily basis. But when it happened in her own family, Michelle’s entire life crashed down around her.
One moment, Michelle had a husband, a career that was taking off, and a beautiful baby girl. When her marriage started to deteriorate and she had to fight for a divorce, she found strength in her seven-year-old daughter, Gabrielle. Just as the divorce was nearly finalized, the most important thing in her life was taken away. Her soon to be ex-husband, the man she once loved, murdered their daughter.
InThe Other Side of Yet: Finding Light in the Midst of Darkness (Atria Books; On sale March 15, 2022; $28.00 Hardcover; ISBN: 9781982173524), Michelle Hord expresses how she survived a mother’s worst nightmare, a devastating loss that most cannot even imagine. In her darkest hours, she turned to the bible, with a particular verse she kept coming back to: “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him”(Job 13:15). In the space between before and after, between ruin and recovery, there is “yet.” Michelle found strength in her yet—it meant that there would be an after, that there was more to come.
Cocktail Chemistry
Cocktail Chemistry is a distillation of Nick Fisher’s expertise, expansive knowledge, and passion for mixology. In the book, you’ll find the essential techniques, skills, and finesse needed to create exceptional cocktails at home. But what makes Nick’s book unique, and harkens to experts like Binging with Babish, is his use of cocktails from popular culture as his launching point. Take James Bond‘s classic martini, which then morphs into a lesson on the science of ice and alcohol, and how shaking or stirring your drink affects flavor and consistency, or Don Draper‘s Mad Men Old Fashioned is the entry point to bourbon cocktails and how to complement bourbon’s flavor profile.
Cannabis for Creatives: How 32 Artists Enhance and Sustain Inspiration
Cannabis has long been used and revered for its many benefits, from its widely acknowledged medical applications to its commonly accepted ability to help people relax. And now, with more and more states and countries legalizing marijuana usage for all purposes, we’re finally reaching a tipping point where cannabis is achieving a level of mainstream acceptance and usage, especially among artists. In Cannabis for Creatives: How 32 Artists Enhance and Sustain Inspiration, photographer and cannabis advocate Jordana Wright details what you need to know to take full advantage of cannabis’ potential in your creative work.
Beginning with the basics (how cannabis grows, how it’s ingested, and the nuances of variety), Cannabis for Creatives tells the history of its usage and all the pertinent details of the plant itself—lineage, strains, appearance, flavor, terpenes, and the types of high you can experience. Wright also discusses the neuroscience of cannabis use, including how it affects the brain and how science measures creativity.
