by Fred Willis | Feb 15, 2018 | Lifestyle, People
Macy’s welcomes local change makers at eight stores nationwide, highlighted by special appearances by Issa Rae in Los Angeles and Laverne Cox in New York City
This February, Macy’s (NYSE:M) celebrates Black History Month by welcoming a host of innovators in fashion, entertainment, art, music, literature and technology, who are pioneers in their industries. Innovation is one of the cornerstones of Black culture, helping to propel trends, widely influencing pop culture, and changing the face of history. From music to science, Black culture has created a wave of change that has helped drive the country to new heights. With innovation comes an extraordinary opportunity to push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and make unprecedented waves. This year, Macy’s special guests will discuss how they blazed their own paths and how the connection to their heritage helped inspire their success. Macy’s will also celebrate those making a difference and impacting their local communities, while helping to pave the way for future generations.
As part of Macy’s Black History Month celebrations, actress, writer and producer Issa Rae will appear at Macy’s Baldwin Hills in Los Angeles. Macy’s will also welcome Emmy® -nominated actress and equal rights advocate, Laverne Cox, at Herald Square in New York City. Both will participate in moderated conversations about Black history, their inspirations and innovation in showbiz.
“These upcoming Black History events serve as wonderful opportunities for Macy’s to bring bold, ground-breaking Black innovators into our stores and to our communities,” said Kristyn Doar-Page, Macy’s vice president of Diversity & Inclusion Strategies. “As a retailer committed to celebrating trailblazers, Macy’s is thrilled to open a space where our community can engage with these artists as they share their life stories and inspirations.”
Issa Rae’s rise from web series creator to one of Hollywood’s It-girls is nothing less than remarkable. Rae’s content has garnered millions of views online and two Golden Globe® nominations for Best Actress for her hit show, HBO’s Insecure. Issa’s web series, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl was the recipient of the coveted Shorty Award for Best Web Show, and her first book, a collection of essays, is a New York Times Best Seller. Issa has graced the cover and pages of major national media outlets including Essence, The Hollywood Reporter, Vanity Fair, The New York Times, CNN, VOGUE and TIME with appearances on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, The View, and more.
“I am excited to be working with Macy’s during Black History Month to celebrate those young and old whose innovation and talents are transforming American culture and making undeniable contributions to art and entertainment,” said Rae.
Laverne Cox is a two-time Emmy-nominated actress and Emmy-winning producer best known for her work on the critically acclaimed Netflix original series Orange Is The New Black, where she plays the groundbreaking role of Sophia Burset. Her work as an actress and advocate landed her on the cover of TIME magazine as well as two Emmy nominations, back-to-back SAG Awards for “Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series,” a Critic’s Choice nomination, and consecutive NAACP Image Award nominations. Cox is a renowned speaker and has taken her empowering message of moving beyond gender expectations to live more authentically all over the country. Her work as an advocate landed her a coveted spot as one of Glamour magazine’s 2014 Women of the Year. She is the recipient of the Dorian Rising Star Award, the Courage Award from the Anti-Violence Project, The Community Leader Award from the LGBT Center of New York City, was named one of The Grio’s 100 Most Influential African Americans, one of the Top 50 Trans Icons by the Huffington Post, one of Out magazine’s Out 100, was ranked number 5 on the 2014 Root 100 list and is a part of Ebony’s Power 100.
“I am grateful to be working with Macy’s during Black History Month to contribute to powerful conversations about the transformative work being done by young innovators,” said Cox. “There is never a better time to discuss the contributions made by the Black community, and what an inspiration it is to be among those fighting for change.”
At each of the Black History Month events, Macy’s customers will have an opportunity to meet and greet with event special guests. For additional information on Macy’s Black History Month festivities and special guests, please visit macys.com/celebrate.
Macy’s Black History Month events will be held at the following stores:
Macy’s Herald Square (New York City) – Wednesday, Feb. 7 at 6 p.m.
Macy’s Baldwin Hills (Los Angeles) – Saturday, Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. with Issa Rae
Macy’s State Street (Chicago) – Thursday, Feb. 15 at 5:30 p.m.
Macy’s Metro Center (Washington, D.C.) – Thursday, Feb. 15 at 5:30 p.m.
Macy’s Culver City (Los Angeles) – Thursday, Feb. 15 at 6 p.m.
Macy’s Center City (Philadelphia) – Thursday, Feb. 22 at 5:30 p.m.
Macy’s Herald Square (New York City) – Thursday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m. with Laverne Cox
Macy’s Union Square (San Francisco) – Thursday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m.
Macy’s Lenox Square (Atlanta) – Thursday, Feb. 22 at 6:30 p.m.
Macy’s Herald Square (New York City) – Saturday, Feb. 24 at 1 p.m.
Macy’s Aventura (Aventura, FL) – Saturday, Feb. 24 at 2 p.m.
Macy’s Herald Square (New York City) – Wednesday, Feb. 28 at 6 p.m.
About Macy’s
Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 670 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores – including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California – are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $54 million each year, plus 180,000 hours of volunteer service, to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.
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by Fred Willis | Feb 14, 2018 | Fashion, Lifestyle
Men’s Fashion Brand Goes Uptown For Spring 2018
Actor Jay Hunter In Steven Land (PRNewsfoto/Steven Land Clothing)
Steven Land, the men’s fashion brand, launches its Spring Collection, Harlem Stories. The collection captures the spirit of Uptown’s rich fashion history. For decades, Harlem has set trends and influenced fashion globally. This seasons’ line took inspiration from the “Dapper Dan’s” and has something for both dress up and casual days. The marketing campaign features talented actor Jay Hunter from Max Payne, If Loving You Is Wrong and soon to be released Acrimony. “Hunter is the perfect fit to showcase the new fashion renaissance and tell the Steven Land, ‘Harlem Story.’ He is a former athlete, fitness buff, amazing actor and fashion enthusiast,” says Steven Landman.
Spring 2018 has raised the fashion bar for Steven Land. The fashion brand will highlight a new casual line as well as new shoe collection. The casual line focus is on colorful inspirations that can be worn daily. The shoe collection will also feature new styles and soft bottoms to compliment the casual side of Harlem Stories. The line will hit stores in early March and available on line at www.stevenland.com now.
The Steven Land line which has been mostly known for its’ fabulous shirts and ties has expanded its offering to include suits, shoes, socks, hats and watches. The pop-up concept store in Harlem is open 7 days from 10-8pm, complete with an in-store stylist and tailoring services. You can also find the entire line at www.stevenland.com.
Steven Landman came to America in 1986 from Israel and began selling ties for his brother at New York City flea markets. The marketplace was a haven for immigrants. It was a cornucopia of interesting individuals who brought with them their own unique cultures, backgrounds and styles. Landman interacted with them on a daily basis and developed an affinity for what the public liked regardless of gender, race or color. When Landman’s brother opened a New York haberdashery called “Tie One,” Landman became a buyer and a few years later he launched Steven Land.
SOURCE:
Steven Land
by Fred Willis | Jan 27, 2018 | Health & Beauty, Lifestyle, Local
Dr. Marc Dunbar introduces an innovative chiropractic and wellness clinic to the people of Southern Dallas. With over 10 years as a results-driven medical professional he has coupled his expertise as an entrepreneur and opened the first clinic of its kind in this area.
In-Touch Cryo will highlight therapeutic services that will appeal to a diverse clientele. Offering a full staff of professionals and affordable membership packages athletes, gym enthusiasts and patients will be able to receive upscale services in their own neighborhood. For a full list of services please visit the website at www.intouchcryo.com
The groundbreaking festivities will include a blue carpet, catering by Simply Soul and Fine Foods and an open bar. Attendees will also have the option to enjoy complimentary services.
Gospel Recording Artists and Reality stars David and Tamela Mann along with Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price will be among many honored guests that have confirmed their attendance.
About Dr. Marc Dunbar
A native of Shreveport, LA Dr. Dunbar has owned a myriad of businesses’. Settling in Desoto, TX he has built his work ethic on healing and helping. Now filming his second season of the reality show ‘The Dallas Moguls’ the grand opening of In-Touch Cryo is just another stepping stone along his journey.
About Nicole Paradigm Media
Nicole Paradigm Media is a Boutique PR Firm in Dallas, TX that specializes in protecting, enhancing, and building the reputations of its clients through media. Offering a team of
professionals, NPM is striving to sustain leadership in media outreach, planning, marketing
and special communications for all types of businesses.
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by Fred Willis | Jan 24, 2018 | Family, Lifestyle
Post-holiday giving! Children in Metro Detroit receive the give of warmth from a Black organization that has collaborated with UAW-Ford Local 600!
People are quick to give and donate in the month of December but what happens when Christmas is over? On January 18, UAW-Ford Local 600 and Jackets for Jobs partnered to deliver coats to at-risk and poor children. January 2018 has been recorded as one of the coldest winters that Michigan has seen in a long time. The timing to give kids coats was perfect. Hundreds of children received durable, high-quality, fleece-lined coats that came in a multitude of colors.
“We work closely with schools and other organizations to make certain that coats go to children who need one. We do this to positively impact each child’s self-image,” states Eric Sumler, UAW-Ford Local 600 Union representative.
“Children living in poverty are accustomed to receiving second-hand clothing. By providing a new coat, a child is not only provided with warmth, but also a boost in joy and self-esteem,” states Alison Vaughn, founder & CEO of Jackets for Jobs. “This initiative would not be possible without the support of Jimmy Settles, UAW Vice President and Director of the National Ford Department,” Vaughn added.
JFJ has been assisting clients with employment for nearly 18 years and has assisted 25,000 plus individuals with employment etiquette and professional interview clothes. The organization has been supported and applauded by ABC’s The View, NBC’s Today Show, and Oprah’s O Magazine. The organization has also rung the closing bell on NASDAQ twice. JFJ is funded by Detroit Employment Solutions Corporation and is charitable arm of TJ Maxx. For more information, visit www.jacketsforjobs.org
Ford and the UAW are leaders in developing a broad range of approaches to worker involvement and labor-management cooperation.
The Ford and UAW joint initiatives are national and local. At both levels, they address matters of common concern in areas such as product quality, education and development, employee involvement, team structures, work technical skills redesign, health and safety, ergonomics, employee assistance, apprenticeship, and labor-management studies. For more details, visit www.uaw.org
SOURCE:
BlackNews.com
by Fred Willis | Jan 24, 2018 | Beauty, Hot Products, Lifestyle
Koils By Nature coming to a Target store near you on January 28th
Koils By Nature, a hair and skincare brand that blends the essence of beauty with the purest of nature, will now be available at select Target stores beginning Jan. 28.
“The natural hair care industry is extremely competitive, so we’re proud that we’re able to continue growing our footprint,” said Chief Executive Officer Pamela Booker. “While we’re currently in 600 beauty supply stores and customers can buy online, we’re excited to offer another, convenient way for them to get the products they love at their local Target store.”
Booker, a U.S. Army veteran and former network engineer, founded Koils by Nature in 2009. Discouraged by the lack of affordable, all-natural products for her hair, she created her own mixtures. She has steadily grown the brand from her basement to a thriving manufacturing facility. The Koils by Nature brand includes an array of conditioners, cleansers, butters, oil treatments, styling gels, accessories and recently added a line of men’s grooming products.
“We’ve been very intentional about our growth and our assortment of products. Nature is in our name, because we carefully select ingredients you can actually find in nature. It’s not just a tagline,” added Booker. “We are a vegan certified and cruelty-free company.”
As the natural hair care industry continues to boom, and experience rapid change, Koils by Nature’s approach reflects the desires of its customers. According to a recent Nielsen report, the number of Black women “going natural” is increasing and 46 percent of them use natural or organic beauty products often. This milestone by Koils by Nature is a testament to the brand’s high quality products and loyal fans.
“I love these products,” swoons one YouTuber about her recent purchase. Her video is one of many raving about the line, pointing to Koils by Nature’s commitment to keeping customers satisfied. Now, millions more women will have access to the moisture-rich cleansers, conditioners and styling products inspired by nature.
Across the U.S., 49 Target Stores will carry some of Koils by Nature’s most popular products including:
Moisturizing Shealoe Leave-In Conditioner: This herbal-infused creamy conditioner and detangler smooths the cuticle and removes knots, snarls and tangles.
Refreshing Anti-Dandruff Tea Tree Mint Cleanser: Its effect is all in the name. This sulfate-free foaming cleanser soothes, purifies and stimulates, while removing dandruff.
Herbal Curl Defining Gel: Whether flaunting a two-strand twist or smooth edges, this nourishing, alcohol-free gel provides excellent hold and soft, lustrous definition.
Ultra-Moisturizing CocoAloe Deep Conditioner: For those who color and/or apply heat to their hair, this conditioner helps retain moisture, prevent breakage all while adding luster, body and manageability.
To learn more about Koils by Nature or to check the availability at your local Target store, visit our store locator or www.KoilsByNature.com
SOURCE:
BlackNews.com; Koils by Nature
by Fred Willis | Oct 21, 2017 | Celebrity, Lifestyle, People, Sports
Power Couple Donates Home to National Domestic Violence Organization
LaTroy Hawkins and wife Anita
Former Major League baseball player, LaTroy Hawkins and his wife, Anita Hawkins recently donated a home to be used as a domestic violence shelter to Women Called Moses, a non-profit organization created to be an “underground railroad” for victims of domestic violence. The house can accommodate up to twelve families and will include a relaxation room where the residents can journal, meditate and reflect, dedicated to Find One Reason to Smile, the non-profit organization founded by Anita Hawkins.
Anita Hawkins, a survivor of domestic violence herself, has raised nearly $20,000 through Find One Reason to Smile to support Women Called Moses. When Debra Bowles, the founder of Women Called Moses, mentioned the overcrowded shelters throughout the United States and the enormous amount of money she spends to safely place domestic violence victims in hotels monthly, Anita knew right then that she wanted to help in a larger way.
“I have supported Women Called Moses for a number of years because of the life-changing work they’re doing,” said Anita Hawkins. “However, they were limited because they didn’t have a safe place to house them. LaTroy and I decided right away to purchase a house to provide a safe environment for domestic violence victims and their children.”
The Hawkins’ purchased the home in the southern sector of the Dallas Metroplex for around $200,000 and partnered with Antioch Fellowship Church, who is sponsoring the renovations to the house. The house is expected to welcome its first residents before the end of the year. “We are so grateful to LaTroy and Anita Hawkins for donating this home to us,” said Debra Nixon-Bowles, founder and president of Women Called Moses. “The shortage of safe housing causes many women to have to return to their abusers. This house is uber important as it will help us expand our services and save lives by providing a safe haven to many, many families from all across the country.”
Women Called Moses seeks to prevent and end the cycle of violence against women through education and advocacy services provided to individuals, families and community agencies throughout the United States of America. Women Called Moses hosted its annual fundraising gala, themed “Heels 2 Heal” on Sunday, October 22 at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden and featured national recording artist, Michel’le, who recently shared her experiences with domestic violence in the movie, “Surviving Compton.” For more information on Women Called Moses, visit
www.womencalledmoses.org.
