EXPANSION plans for men's gift and accessories company Menkind Stores certainly created the right impression with the Royal Bank of Scotland, when it agreed to help fund the company's plans to open five new stores.

The high street bank decided that Menkind could benefit from a little 'grooming' if its plans to expand beyond its original single store and launch a cutting-edge new website were to take it to the next level.

So Menkind Stores' founder, Paul Kraftman, went to his bank manager, Robert Laurie, with his plans, and was put in touch with the administrators of the government's Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) scheme.

And the bank helped Menkind secure £987,000 of EFG cash which has gone a long way to funding the buying and fitting out of the five new stores.
The funding boost has certainly had the desired effect on the business's fortunes.

'Our new store openings were fitted out in a new concept, which has proven to be a great success in driving sales,' said Mr Kraftman.

'We are grateful to Robert and the team at RBS for arranging the finance package we needed.'

One thing Mr Kraftman is only too well aware of is the seasonal nature of the men's gift market, but he believes Menkind's growth has been achieved because of, rather than in spite of, this.

'Our flexible operating model allows us to manage and align costs so effectively with the seasonality of our market,' he added.

Menkind opened its first store in 2001 in the Lakeside Shopping Centre, Essex. The five new stores are in Aberdeen, Cardiff, Nottingham, Liverpool and Manchester.

Its new-look website, www.menkind.co.uk, is now live in good time for Christmas, and is crammed with thousands gift and novelty ideas for men (and big boys) of all ages to suit every pocket.

ENDS

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BASF now offers a new and patented version of the foam Neopolen® P (EPP: expanded polypropylene) for devices used in heating, ventilation and sanitary systems. The metallic-gray Neopolen P 9335 mg is noted for its thermal insulation which is 10 percent better than standard EPP. Thanks to the versatile properties of the new product, foamed Neopolen P molded parts are able to perform several functions at the same time: The foam serves as efficient shock-absorbing packaging for transportation, supports the device as constructive carrier and replaces the metal housing because it can be processed into thermally insulating housings with an aesthetic surface. Neopolen P 9335 mg thus helps to meet the energy standards of low-energy houses and for the renovation of older buildings.

Several functions in one

This presents new design options for devices such as heat exchangers and solar storing units. Neopolen P 9335 mg can be used to foam highly resilient, elastic molded parts which replace conventional metal or injection-molded housings. Without any elaborate mold design, undercuts can be produced in the foam component easily and cost-effectively. This provides new options for integrating additional functions into the housing such as airflow channels or assembly fixings. As a result, the required number of components can be reduced to a minimum. The thermal and electronic units are fastened directly into the viscoplastic Neopolen P housing. Thus, they cannot be damaged during transportation.

When in use, the device is also thermally insulated in an efficient way. The polymer matrix of Neopolen P 9335 mg contains infrared absorbers which reflect thermal radiation like a mirror and thus considerably reduce the heat transfer compared to conventional EPP. Neopolen P is temperature-resistant from -40°C to +100°C.

Designed surfaces

Thanks to new tooling technologies, the foam can be processed in such a way that high-quality surfaces are produced without the typical particle foam look and without nozzle imprints. The foam beads which expand uniformly adapt to the modified mold surface and as a result generate a homogeneous, aesthetic designed surface, for example with a leather look.

Neopolen P – versatile and environmentally friendly

Neopolen P 9335 mg is a specialty foam from the tried-and-tested Neopolen P product range. The expanded polypropylene (EPP) is noted for its very good shock absorption characteristics, low weight and high temperature resistance. The particle foam combines high energy absorption – even after several impacts – with excellent resilience and isotropic deformation performance. This interesting combination of properties, which also includes low water absorption and good resistance to chemicals, opens up a broad range of applications: from vehicle construction, packaging and transport containers to sports and leisure applications. Neopolen P is 100 percent recyclable. It is manufactured and processed without any CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons).

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Better online delivery services, limited choice of goods and long distances to stores have encouraged 94% of people living in rural areas to shop online. In 2009, 4.4 million people living in rural communities have increased their online shopping. The online discount site, www.grabvouchercodes.co.uk reported an increase of visitors from the UK countryside searching for a variety of goods including food & drink, electronics & appliances, DIY equipment, and health & beauty products.

16% say their nearest shops do not offer them the things they need
10% say their nearest shops are too far away
10% say they have increased the amount they shop online to avoid driving to their nearest high street
17% say greater reliability and convenience in home delivery has been the key reason they have increased their online spending
66% say they expect to get delivery for free
35% say they expect next day delivery

Carl Scheible, the managing director of PayPal UK, said: "The internet has brought the high street to the countryside, and as many rural communities struggle without any shops at all, online shopping will play an increasingly bigger role as a lifeline for many communities. "

"It's alarming that up to 33 village shops are closing a month, however the extraordinary choice of goods and services available online means that people living in rural Britain need not be stranded. The internet may not yet be able to meet all our shopping needs — such as a pint of milk the moment you need it — but we expect more people to join the 4.4 million in the countryside who have increased their reliance on online shopping this year alone. "

About Grab Voucher Codes
GrabVoucherCodes.co.uk makes it easy for consumers to grab deals including discount codes, promotional offers and voucher coupons, making online shopping affordable.

For more information please visit: http://www.grabvouchercodes.co.uk/

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The agreement sees Vodat become BroadVision's Master Partner and the only UK reseller for its eMerchandising SAAS solution. The technology works independently from the retailers web site and makes it easy to set up incentives, promotions, cross selling, recommendations, bundles, offers, companion deals and shipping discounts which can increase a retailers AOV up to 40%. This solution will be hosted by Vodat who have been selected as a strategic BroadVision® partner in the United Kingdom due to the company's extensive retail expertise.

The eMerchandising™ solution is a low-cost, low risk solution that enables retailers to support their online efforts at a minimal investment and a percentage revenue share for the increase in sales.

For more details about eMerchandising please visit http://www.vodat-int.com/emerchandising-shopping-cart-incentives.asp

Mike Bielinski, CEO at Vodat International, said, "This is an exciting partnership for our business. There are many retailers who are still without an online presence or are in the early stages of offering an online store. This solution presents an affordable and exciting piece of technology that will help retailers not only understand their customers better but also help them to grow their business and increase the average order value within a customer's shopping basket."

Ian Heggs, NEMEA Regional Manager at BroadVision, said, "We selected Vodat as our strategic partner due to the company's extensive retail experience. Vodat is a forward-looking business keen to embrace new technology to help retailers develop further and we're looking forward to working together in the UK. This low-cost investment can help retailers develop and make a big difference to growing their online efforts."

For more information please visit http://www.vodat-int.com/news_article.asp?ID=28

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The new special edition Guess collection features signature looks with a modern twist. The Guess Pink 25th Bling ladies watch is exclusive to H.Samuel and offers customers a real taste of Guess glamour, featuring a pink strap and large round crystal set dial with Guess logo.

Guess Watches has also created three new styles in ten variations for the Guess Girl - all with a specially designed 25th anniversary case back.

Also amongst this new line of watches is the ever-popular and iconic Guess logo and Guess triangle with glitz bezels as well as crystal-studded dials and cases. These styles are highlighted in an array of colourful leather straps suitable for every woman's fashion wardrobe.

Guess was founded in 1981 by the Marciano brothers. One of the most widely recognisable brands in the world, Guess is known for its ground breaking and innovative style. Through their design, marketing and distribution of fashion lifestyle products, Guess has become one of the fashion leaders in young contemporary markets across the globe and consistently produces designs that are fashion-forward and trend setting.

Guess is also famous for spotting up and coming talent. Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, Laetitia Casta, Eva Herzigova, Charlize Theron and a host of today's top celebs, models and actresses have taken part in Guess campaigns in the past.

About H. Samuel:
H.Samuel has almost 400 stores nationwide and is part of the Signet Jewelers Ltd. Firmly established as the UK's favourite high street jeweller, H.Samuel brings together an unsurpassed range of quality products at exceptional value. Customers can find an extensive collection of diamond, gold and silver jewellery, as well as the most popular watch brands. There's also a large range of the top collectibles and an inspiring selection of gifts for every occasion and budget. Every in-store purchase is supported by expert advice from H.Samuel's experienced staff, together with a comprehensive range of after-sales services.

Signet is the world's largest specialty retail jeweller by sales, with stores in the US, UK, Republic of Ireland and Channel Islands.

For further H.Samuel media enquiries, please contact:
Tim Lundberg
Copywriter E-Commerce Marketing
H.Samuel
Imperial Place
3 Maxwell Road
Borehamwood
Herts
WD6 1JN
0208 207 8312
www.hsamuel.co.uk

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The Silverstone Grand Prix Challenge offers the winner the opportunity to drive a Ferrari 360, Porsche 911, Lotus Exige and a Land Rover around the world famous track, experiencing the thrill and excitement first hand. Customers will also take part in an auto-test in a Caterham 7, Peugot 206 GTI or Ford Fiesta, spinning and driving a car at speed through obstacles and around bollards.

With a full briefing and expert instructors to ensure maximum safety and enjoyment, this is a once in a lifetime chance for consumers to live out their petrol dreams. Breakfast and lunch is also included and participants will receive a trophy and presentation pack so that the lucky winners can remember their big day.

Citizen Eco-Drive watches are renowned for their style, design, innovation and quality. Featuring the Eco-Drive solar power system which powers the watch from any light source, Citizen watches rank among the finest on the high street. Available in a wide range of styles from sporty chronograph watches to dress watches, the Citizen watches range features watches for men and watches for women.

To enter the competition, consumers simply have to go to the H.Samuel website and click on the Citizen competition link on the Homepage, where they can sign up to receive the H.Samuel newsletter and be entered into the draw automatically. The closing date is 24 December 2009. The draw takes place within ten days of the closing date and winners will be notified within 28 days of the draw. After the draw date entrants are free to unsubscribe to the email newsletter.

About H. Samuel:
H.Samuel is the nation's favourite High Street Jeweller with over 350 stores and a retail website. Featuring an incredible range of branded watches H.Samuel also has a stunning range of jewellery, collectibles and gifts for all occasions, offering something for every taste and style. H.Samuel is part of the Signet Group, the world's largest speciality retail jeweller.

PR contact:
Tim Lundberg
Copywriter E-Commerce Marketing
H.Samuel
Imperial Place
3 Maxwell Road
Borehamwood
Herts
WD6 1JN
0208 207 8312
www.hsamuel.co.uk

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Because employers cannot be expected to always know exactly what it is each and every one of their staff would like to receive as a gift, SayShopping Pass – the multi retailer gift vouchers – can be spent in over 60 outlets from much-loved high street stores such as HMV and Boots, to experiences, restaurants and holidays. So employers are offering their staff the choice of tens of thousands of products.

Hunterlodge is the name of the advertising and publicity agency behind the campaign. Account Director Paul Mellor says: 'We're delighted to be working with Sodexo to develop such an innovative piece of creative advertising that moves away from the typical Christmas mailer. The essence of our 'Everyone's Different' proposition is that it sums up the dilemma that businesses face each year when rewarding employees.'

'The corporate Christmas incentive market is worth over £400m but I wonder how much of that is wasted on gifts that people just don't want or need,' says Kevin Harrington, Director of Sodexo. 'It's a fact that panic and confusion set in when employers are set with the task of choosing gifts for staff and clients. Yet, by giving someone the option of choosing a gift for themselves with a voucher, you're not only offering choice but also giving yourself peace of mind that your gift will be appreciated!'

More details about the full product range can be obtained by calling 0800 0856238 or by visiting www.everyonesdifferent.co.uk.

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The Christian Siriano Mini Starbucks Card will be available in participating stores nationwide and in Canada on November 17, 2009. All U.S. and Canadian registered Mini Starbucks Cards are eligible for Starbucks Card Rewards. For more information about the Mini Starbucks Card, visit www.starbucks.com/card.

Inspiring Children Through Art and Fashion…
As part of this collaboration Starbucks made a donation in honor of Christian Siriano to The Art of Elysium - a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization founded in 1997, which encourages working actors, artists and musicians to voluntarily dedicate their time and talent to children who are battling serious medical conditions. In addition to the one-time donation, Starbucks is supporting Christian's workshop with five lucky girls to help design and create dresses for them to wear to the charity's annual gala in January.

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'Macy's Believe effort really inspired people last holiday, and customers and communities across the country responded in a big way,' said Peter Sachse, Macy's chief marketing officer. 'Not only did we collect more than a million letters and hit our $1 million goal for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, but we saw wonderful and unexpected examples of schools and communities coordinating letter drives to help support this effort. To build on that excitement this year, Macy's Believe campaign will layer on new elements including taking Macy's Santa on tour, designating a special Believe Day to celebrate the holiday spirit, and premiering a new animated holiday special that tells the 'Yes, Virginia' story. This holiday, America will be inspired to Believe again.'

Beginning on November 6, 2009, believers of all ages are invited to drop off letters – stamped and addressed to Santa At The North Pole – at any Macy's store in the Santa Mail letterbox. For each letter received, Macy's will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, up to $1 million, to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

'The Make-A-Wish Foundation is proud to join with Macy's to make wishes come true through the Believe campaign,' said David Williams, President and CEO of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. 'It inspires people to embrace the generosity of the season and think hopefully about the future. Believe ties in perfectly with our mission to grant the heartfelt wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions, and we appreciate the support of Macy's and everyone who takes part in the campaign.'

New Believe elements this year include:

Macy's 'The Trek' TV Commercial (breaks Nov. 6) – The Believe advertising campaign will break on Friday, November 6, with a new national television spot featuring Macy's star Queen Latifah. The spot, called 'The Trek' features Virginia making the trip from her home to Macy's, where Queen Latifah helps her mail her letter to Santa. A Spanish-language version will feature Carlos Ponce.

Macy's National Santa Tour (Kicks off Nov. 28) – A new and exciting element to the Believe campaign is Macy's Santa Tour. Following his celebratory kickoff of the holiday season in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Santa will embark on a whirlwind tour across America, greeting young boys and girls and spreading holiday joy. Stopping in 25 cities across the U.S., Santa's National Tour will give children the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet the man himself. Visit www.macys.com/believe (site goes live Nov. 6) for scheduled stops and to track Santa's latest location.

National Believe Day / 'Yes, Virginia' Animated Special (Dec. 11) – On Friday, December 11, Macy's will celebrate the first National Believe Day to recognize and reward acts of kindness and generosity from coast to coast. Also that day, CBS will premiere a new original animated special called, 'Yes, Virginia.' Building on the story of 8-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon's letter to the editor of the New York Sun in 1897, the holiday special takes us on a charming adventure about the existence of Santa Claus and the curiosity amongst believers. During the creation of 'Yes, Virginia,' a special wish was fulfilled for 10-year-old Wish kid Taylor Hay – whose voice and likeness were captured for one of the characters. The new half-hour holiday program will air on CBS on Friday, December 11, at 8 p.m. ET. 'Yes, Virginia' was created and produced by Macy's and JWT in conjunction with The Ebeling Group and MEC Entertainment, a division of Mediaedge:cia.

macys.com/believe (Site is live on Nov. 6)

* 'Believe' Activity Guide – Based on the enormous response from schools and teachers last year, Macy's and the Make-A-Wish Foundation have created a downloadable online toolkit to facilitate interest from teachers and schools that would like to use 'Believe' as a writing lesson or activity during the holiday season. The toolkit – including a Santa letter template, coloring sheet and 'I Believe' bookmark cut-out – can be found on macys.com/believe.
* Tell Us Why You Believe – Also new on macys.com/believe is a 'Tell Us Why You Believe' contest that invites visitors to submit either a short essay or video telling the world why they believe. People can vote on the entries, with the two winners (one essay and one video) enjoying a very special VIP trip to the 2010 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. To measure activity, the site will feature a working Believe Meter map that inches higher every time an essay or video is submitted. Voters have a chance to win a sweepstakes too!
* Santa Tour Tracker – Macy's Believe microsite will also feature a map with Santa's whirlwind tour schedule. All Santa stop details will be listed here for believers of all ages wanting to meet the man himself.

The Believe campaign is rooted in a letter to the editor written by 8-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon in 1897 asking if there is a Santa Claus. The New York Sun newsman Francis P. Church responded with a poignantly worded essay on the importance of believing, including the famous line 'Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist…'

The Believe campaign launches on November 6 and runs through December 24. For Believers who want to help make a difference, just look for the Believe Stations in every store that feature a Believe Meter, letter-writing station and an official R.H. Macy's Santa Mail letterbox.

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From violet berries to rich plums, purple is this season's new red. To celebrate this purple reign of colour, Clinique has introduced the New Black Tie Violets 2009 colour collection. This sweetly feminine, yet bold line features a range of girly violet tones that mirror the festivity and allure of the season.

A full-face party look draws inspiration from Clinique's best-selling Different Lipstick in A Different Grape and for an extra touch of glamour, key items are elegantly housed in luxurious, silver packaging.

Shimmering Stripes Blusher leaves a pearly, luminous look in rich plum shades. For application, the limited edition Powder Brush made of natural hair is available with a festive, shimmery, metallic handle especially for Christmas. The large dome allows for easy application of powder for smooth, even delivery. As with all Clinique brushes it utilises a unique anti-bacterial technology that protects the brush to ensure a high level of hygiene. It's the perfect beauty tool to help make the festive season glow.

Colour Surge Eyeshadow Quad creates looks ranging from subtle and soft to a sexy and sophisticated smokey eye. Clinique eyeshadows build quickly and blend easily offering effortless sheen and luminosity. The perfect eye makeup can be finished with Brush-On Cream Liner an ultra smooth, creamy gel liner that provides the precision of a liquid liner enabling it to be laid on thick or thin, subtle or dramatic. Either way, this fast-drying, non-smudging, waterproof eye liner delivers a precise line every time.

Lips are treated to the must-have party lip gloss with Full Potential Lips Plump & Shine. A multi-purpose, high-shine lip gloss which instantly and over time makes even the most modest lips appear fuller, softer and more contoured. Layered over Clinique's Different Lipstick in A Different Grape or High Impact Lip Colour SPF 15, a sophisticated lipstick that delivers superior colour and moisturising benefits from the moment it's applied.

Finally the look can be finished with High Impact Mascara to deliver intense, glamorous, dressed-up lashes in a flash.

New Black Tie Violets is available in-store and online at Clinique.co.uk from October 30th 2009.

About Clinique
Introduced in 1968, Clinique was the first ever dermatologist-created, prestige make up brand. Today, Clinique's mission remains what it was from the beginning: to provide the highest quality and most effective collection of products to enhance every skin type and tone. The brand's customised approach and quality products - all meticulously tested and carefully formulated with the latest science - have made Clinique one of the leading skin care authorities in the world. All makeup and skin care products are allergy-tested and 100% fragrance free. Clinique offers products for men and women of all ages and ethnicities. Clinique is sold in more than 130 countries and territories, and over 16,000 sales locations.

Clinique PR contact:
Mary Kate Trevakis
Clinique Communications Coordinator
73 Grosvenor Street
London
W1K 3BQ
0870 034 6951
www.clinique.co.uk

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HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., October, 2009 – Simone and Son, Orange County's premier fine jeweler, ushers in a new era of custom engagement rings, combining the client's input from the very start. As a distinctive alternative to ready-made engagement rings and wedding bands, Simone & Son opens up the creative process, allowing customers to infuse their own personalities and sense of style to their rings to create lasting symbols of matrimony.

'Today, couples are waiting longer to get married and something they deliberate upon, often quite painstakingly, is the process of selecting engagement and wedding rings,' said Shant Dakessian. 'For those who seek something different from mass-produced jewelry, we offer a once-in-a-lifetime chance for couples to participate in designing their own rings. Brides and grooms write their own vows; designing their own rings is a natural evolution.'

Whether the idea comes from an old family heirloom, a sketch or in the mind's eye, Simone & Son's experienced artist sketches a hand drawing of the ring. A prototype is created, using the most sophisticated prototyping machines. High-tech equipment enables Simone & Son to create designs with incredible detail, at a faster pace than traditional methods.

In the casting stage, molten metal is poured into a perfect negative impression (a unique mold), which is cooled and then removed. A good casting produces metal that is free of air bubbles. What remains is a scaly but detailed shape that must be finished. Hand craftsmanship lends to the beauty of the finished piece. Watch a video clip to learn more at http://www.simoneandson.com/cms/custom_design.asp.

Few jewelers still manufacture in-house, but this distinction allows Simone & Son to control every step of the process, which produces simply stunning results. Their exacting standards and impeccable attention to detail combined with years of mastery in stone setting, fabricating, hand engraving and finishing techniques—make Simone & Son a trusted source among celebrities and local clientele alike.

In addition to custom jewelry design, Simone & Son carries an exclusive collection of award-winning jewelry designs including men's wedding bands, jewelry and accessories to ladies rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. Simone & Son specializes in Ideal Cut Diamonds, Cut by Tolkowsky Diamonds, Firemark Princess Cut Diamonds and Cushion Cut Diamonds, and precious gemstones such as Tanzanites, Tourmalines of varying colors, Sapphires and much more.

About Simone & Son
Recognized as one of the premier Orange County jewelry design houses, Simone & Son's family tradition of making fine jewelry dates back to 1945, in the South of France. Today, the award-winning design team produces exquisite fine jewelry, specializing in custom engagement rings. Simone & Son works with clients one-on-one to produce the most distinctive engagement rings and wedding bands Orange County clients will find. Any concept or design can be brought to life in the company's full service showroom, which stocks G.I.A. certified diamonds that also are certified conflict free. Simone & Son's staff can locate diamonds and gems from anywhere around the world, assuring the final piece will be a cherished heirloom for years to come. For more information, please visit www.simoneandson.com or call 714-964-4012 for a free design consultation.

# # #

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Fairey to unveil a new art mural at a live installation and appearance at the Levi's® Store in Times Square

SAN FRANCISCO .– This October, the Levi's® brand – the name responsible for the invention of the blue jean – continues its ever-evolving relationship with acclaimed street artist Shepard Fairey by unveiling Obey x Levi's®, a collection of co-designed, street-inspired styles for men. Obey x Levi's® is a celebration of the renegade spirit embraced by both pioneering partners and features denim silhouettes, distress details, and finishes inspired by Fairey's personal collection of Levi's® jeanswear and collaboratively developed by Levi's® and Fairey.

The highly-collectible Obey x Levi's® capsule collection will be carried exclusively at select Levi's® Store locations in New York City, San Francisco, Chicago and Santa Monica and at www.levi.com. A limited number of pieces will also be available at www.obeyclothing.com. The collection will be available beginning October 29 and will range in price from $34.50 to $148. To commemorate the launch of the collection, on October 29 Fairey will unveil a series of four new poster designs at a live art installation outside The Levi's® Store in New York City's Times Square. Once Fairey completes the installation, he will meet-and-greet event participants while autographing free museum-quality reproductions of his new posters.

The series of four limited-edition Shepard Fairey posters will be given away as a free gift, while supplies last, with the purchase of any item from the Obey x Levi's® collection in the following Levi's® Store locations: Times Square and Soho in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, Santa Monica and Chicago. The front side of each of the four double-sided posters features artwork that exists as a stand-alone piece. The reverse side of each poster also includes one piece of a oversized mural image specially designed by Fairey.

'I've always felt that keeping my art bold, simple and refined was a way to cut through the clutter, and it's a formula that Levi's® has been using for decades that keeps them accessible and populist yet stylish and relevant,' said Shepard Fairey. 'The posters I created for Levi's® are returns to the roots of my style: one side with an industrial propaganda poster feel that connects with the heritage of Levi's® as a brand for workers, and the reverse side reflecting my other biggest influence, punk rock, and the connection of Levi's® to punk and rock in general.'

'Shepard Fairey is a groundbreaking innovator who has changed the way art is perceived and consumed in our world today. His revolutionary work uniquely reflects the optimistic, pioneering spirit of the Levi's® brand, making Obey x Levi's® a truly authentic collaboration,' said Doug Sweeny, vice president of Marketing for the Levi's® brand. 'As fans and loyal supporters of Shepard's pioneering art, we are proud to introduce this special clothing collection rooted in Shepard's favorite Levi's® styles.'

A graduate of the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design, Shepard Fairey was catapulted to super stardom last year when his 'Hope' poster became the predominant image of President Obama's successful campaign. But it was Fairey's 'Obey' guerilla art campaign that first gained mass attention nearly a decade ago. His now infamous 'Obey' images of Worldwide Wrestling Federation star Andre the Giant continue to appear on public canvases worldwide today and inspired Fairey to create OBEY Clothing – a collection of street and skate-inspired apparel he introduced in 2001.

Fairey's unique art and view of the world captured the attention of many fans at Levi's® and in 2002, the brand proudly sponsored Authentik – one of Fairey's first art shows. The show, which was held at the Levi's® Vortex Gallery in the San Francisco Levi's® Store, marked the beginning of the relationship between Fairey and his favorite denim brand. Since then, there have been several collaborative projects including a series of one-of-a-kind 'Obey' 501® jean art pieces, a timeline portrait collection of punk and rap music trailblazers and a silk-screened image of Levi Strauss that Fairey created to pay homage to Levi's® jeans founder. Earlier this year, the Levi's® brand proudly sponsored Fairey's first-ever, career retrospective museum exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston. Levi's and Fairey® also created a co-designed denim tote bag that was sold exclusively at the ICA Boston's museum shop to commemorate the show and benefit the museum.

The launch of the Obey x Levi's® collection is the latest result of the ongoing collaborative relationship between Levi's® and Fairey relationship. The line consists of a tightly-edited assortment of eight essential menswear pieces that showcase fits, finishes, rips, patches and design details selected by Fairey and inspired by his personal collection of Levi's® denim. Each piece is a hand-customized original, punctuated by 'spray paint' drip details, stenciled art imagery, pins and 'wear and repair' finishing touches. The collection is replete with exclusive branding details including an 'Obey' Giant tab-device that lives alongside the iconic Levi's® Red Tab and a 'Two-Horse' rear waistband patch that also includes a stylized 'Obey' Giant face.

Artfully executed, the Obey x Levi's® collection is aggressively worn to evoke the look and feel of one's favorite pair of jeans. Each pair of jeans, denim jacket and flannel shirt comes with a specially designed, co-branded bandana. The collection consists of:

• Obey x Levi's® 511 Skinny Jean in black over-dyed denim with various distressed 'Obey' patch details.
• Obey x Levi's® 514 Slim Straight Jean –The jeans Fairey wears modernized with a dimensional, textural finish, custom destruction and 'Obey' patchwork.
• Obey x Levi's® 'Spray It' Trucker Denim Jacket featuring spray-paint drip details, a sewn-in black French terry hood, covert interior pockets and custom artwork throughout the interior of the jacket.
• Obey x Levi's® 'Bomb' Trucker Denim Jacket, in a black, top-coated, blue denim punctuated by a tonal black spray-painted surface, 'Obey' patches, herringbone tape inserts, covert and custom, exclusive artwork sewn into the jacket's interior.
• Obey x Levi's® Overdyed Flannel Woven Shirt, featuring pigment, spray paint and bleach drip details and custom surface patches.
• A series of three Obey x Levi's® super soft, aged t-shirts, each featuring collaborative artwork.

The Obey x Levi's® collection is the latest in a number of art and design alliances introduced by the Levi's® brand. Recent collaborations include clothing collections developed with Robert Geller, Engineered Garments, British art sensation Damien Hirst, and The Andy Warhol Foundation for The Visual Arts; a poster series conceived by famed graphic designer Stefan Sagmeister and a series of marketing campaign images captured by acclaimed photographer Ryan McGinley.

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A few examples: A Campbell's Soup Paper Dress, was sold for $1,699; a pair of Vintage 501 Levi's, fetched $4,261; and a rare Hawaiian shirt, collected $6,000.

When WhatSellsBest.com publisher, James Massey, was asked if there was a Vintage Clothing sale that caught his eye. He replied: 'Probably the Vintage Jacket worn by security personnel during the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969, it sold for $12,000 and it was really cool as a historical item."

To see the entire September list (with photos) of the Top 10 Best Selling eBay Vintage Clothing, visit: WhatSellsBest.com

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This collection of save the date cards can be seen at http://www.sanskripts.com/collections/save-the-date

'We previewed these designs recently at a couple of local wedding events and we were extremely encouraged with the feedback from the couples that simply loved this collection. Pretty much everyone unequivocally expressed that our save the date wedding cards were fresh and modern. And they felt relieved they were able to find high end designs at really affordable prices' explained Bree Shah, founder at Sanskripts.com.

Save the Date wedding cards are a great way for the couple to share their happy news and to allow guests to mark their calendars to join them for the big day. While save the date cards don't have to match the wedding stationery, they should let guests take a peek at the theme or style of the wedding. So make a memorable impression with save the date wedding cards, as first impressions do matter.

For additional information on save the date wedding cards, wedding invitations, and matching wedding stationery from Sanskripts, please visit http://www.sanskripts.com/collections/wedding-invitations or call 609.577.1085.

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Redesigned by award winning agency Digital Surgeons, Social Diva has been enhanced both on front end usability for its customers and in the back end info structure for rapid growth.

'Social Diva Media is a classic email business that has so many interesting extra facets which makes it exciting for us to work with, as it is a true lifestyle business', says David Salinas, CEO of Digital Surgeons. 'Not only does Social Diva mainly utilize email marketing, they are hosting offline events, selling books and a digital music CD.'

'Besides finally being able to serve the Los Angeles area, we are delighted with the new site. It not only looks fantastic but the functionality and the back end tools will allow us to scale our growing business quickly,' says Peg Samuel, CEO and Founder of Social Diva Media. 'This is exactly the direction we needed to go in this competitive market and we are happy to be working with Digital Surgeons on execution and strategy.'

The description of a Social Diva Member is independent and social; accelerated lifestyle; internet active; marketing, media, high-tech, corporate, fashion & industry professionals; 21-40 years old; upscale income group 100k+ median HHI; 90% Women, 10% Men; 75% single, 25% married; high entertainment and self-care spending; attentive to on site promotions and grass-roots marketing messages; fun-seeking and adventurous; fashionable and trendsetting; reads music industry or lifestyle magazines; listens to current music; goes to art galleries, restaurants and special events – influencers.

About Social Diva™ Media

Social Diva Media www.socialdiva.com is an email newsletter and lifestyle company. Social Diva has been featured on E! News, MSNBC, Fox Live News, ABC World News, Good Day New York, Entrepreneur, Redbook, Star, WWD, Lucky Magazine, AM New York, and TBS' Sex and the City as a NYC and Atlanta Trendsetter.

CONTACT: Peg Samuel – Social Diva Media peg@socialdiva.com – 212-537-6588

About Digital Surgeons

Digital Surgeons is a cross-media marketing firm of idea generators and innovators that combines creative, online marketing strategy and technology.

CONTACT: David Salinas david@digitalsurgeons.com 203-672-6201

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MENOMONIE, Wis., October 2009 -- SimplyWeddingStuff.com, the ultimate online destination for unique wedding favors, bridal shower favors and gifts today introduced personalized placemats that come in a colorful variety of themes, making them perfect decorations and party favors guests can take home after the festivities have ended.

'In this economy, customers are looking for festive ways to keep party costs down, while still creating a memorable and fun event,' says Brenda Knutson, customer service manager, SimplyWeddingStuff.com. 'At about a dollar a piece, these new personalized placemats double as party décor and a favor that guests can take home to reuse. Great for birthday parties, bridal showers and baby showers, anniversaries and baptism, the placemats are a hit with guests and make cleaning up a breeze for the host.'

Bridal shower themed placemats come in elegant, colorful and whimsical themes, from a bride's silhouette to clinking champagne glasses. Baby shower themes include Under the Sea, Ladybug, Baby Boy and Baby Girl and Trendy Mommy. Birthday themes include milestones birthdays such as 1st, 40th, 50th, with designs ranging from elegant, cute, fun and kid friendly. Rounding out the vast selection of placemats are matching invitations, thank you cards and banners and decorations, for a complete party ensemble. The minimum order for placemats is 16, but any quantity above minimum can be ordered.

In addition to the bridal shower theme, placemats for almost any occasion can be found at one of the BigDotofHappiness.com family of shops, which includes BabyShowerStuff.com, SimplyBabyStuff.com, SimplyBirthdayStuff.com and SimplyWeddingStuff.com.

At SimplyWeddingStuff.com, finding just the right wedding invitation, bridal shower favor or wedding gift is an obsession they share with clients. Every bride has her own vision of a dream wedding and SimplyWeddingStuff.com provides all she needs to create a unique and memorable event. From shower invitations to DIY wedding party favors and everything in between, the selection at SimplyWeddingStuff.com is unrivaled. Not merely a party favor warehouse, SimplyWeddingStuff.com's design team creates truly inspired items for that very special day.

About SimplyWeddingStuff.com
The ultimate online destination for unique wedding favors, SimplyWeddingStuff.com is a division of BigDotofHappiness.com. SimplyWeddingStuff.com caters to brides with the most discriminating tastes seeking creative, out-of-the-box ideas for wedding favors, bridal shower favors and bridal shower invitations. SimplyWeddingStuff.com provides all the party planning essentials a couple needs, including bridal shower games, bachelorette party favors and much more. To learn more or to search for products, visit http://www.simplyweddingstuff.com.

About BigDotofHappiness.com
BigDotofHappiness.com began as a hobby in the living room of its founder, Sherri Yukel. Today, the site provides all the imaginable party and event items under one roof. BigDotofHappiness.com is the premier event party company specializing in baby showers, bridal showers, wedding showers, bachelorette parties, birthday parties, party invitations and party favors. Thanks to its creative staff, BigDotofHappiness.com, whose shops includes BabyShowerStuff.com, SimplyBabyStuff.com, SimplyBirthdayStuff.com and SimplyWeddingStuff.com, is the originator of unique games, invitations and themed party supply products known as "Big Dot Originals."

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Dr. Cress allows the Champion Eye Center family to expand its services and hours, making it even more convenient for patients. Starting in November, Champion's south office – located at 300 Julian Lane in Arden – will start seeing patients on Saturday by appointment.

'We are very excited about Dr. Cress joining our eye care family,' Dr. Andy Champion says. 'He is a graduate of Southern College of Optometry and he brings a great deal of clinical experience in pediatric and adult primary care, vision therapy and ocular disease. Our growth is designed with one goal in mind – to better meet the needs of our patients.'

Drs. Andy and Patty Champion began practicing optometry in Asheville in 1995 and opened eye care centers in Asheville and Sylva in 1997. They realized the need for professional eye care services in South Asheville, so they opened the Arden office in 2006 to meet the optometric needs of patients on the south side of the city.

Dr. Cress said that joining the Champion Eye Center family is the culmination of a lifelong dream. 'Drs. Andy and Patty Champion have built their eye care practice the right way, by treating their patients like family members,' explains Dr. Cress.

Champion Eye Center is the exclusive carrier of Chanel frames for all of Western North Carolina. Champion also carries fashionable frames for all styles from Giorgio Armani, Calvin Klein, Burberry, Polo Ralph Lauren, Ray-Ban and Vera Wang.

Champion Eye Center is also the only eye care outlet that features Varilux Ipseo progressive lenses. These cutting-edge Ipseo lenses are the only progressive lenses on the market that can be personalized to meet the unique visual behavior of each patient.

Dr. Cress's extensive knowledge of contact lenses allows Champion Eye Center to treat even more patients who need multifocal or specialty lenses. Dr. Cress also brings with him a comprehensive background of preventive eye maintenance. Over the past 18 months, Dr. Cress performed clinical work in ocular disease treatment and management of glaucoma, corneal disease and macular degeneration.

To schedule an appointment, call Champion Eye Center at 828-236-0099 or visit www.championeyecenter.com.

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Champion Eye Center
Patty Champion
Arden: (828) 650-2727
North Asheville: (828) 236-0099

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The selections of watches are crafted in steel or gold and in styles to suit both men and women. The collections available at Ernest Jones include the Classima Executive, which reinterprets Baume & Mercier watch-making tradition using mechanical movements enriched with small embellishments and refined finishes, and the Riviera collection, which revolutionised watch-making with a dodecagonal case. Ernest Jones also features the refined rectangular Diamant and Hampton ranges which offer a blend of elegance and modern design.

Also available at Ernest Jones is the iléa collection, a feminine range with sensual curves and flowing lines.

Founded in Switzerland in 1830, Baume & Mercier is a luxury watch brand that combines the finest watch making traditions with contemporary design and high quality components. In keeping with its pursuit of excellence, all Baume & Mercier watches bear the Swiss Made label and feature signed and numbered case backs. All movements are accredited by the Richemont Group. Baume & Mercier uses only stainless steel or 18ct gold bracelets and genuine alligator straps and all watches in these collections are water resistant with a two year international warranty.

Contemporary, classic and modern Baume & Mercier watches offer a unique style that reflects the taste and requirements of an aesthetically minded clientele. By valuing innovation, creativity and authenticity Baume & Mercier manufacture quality, first-class watches that are among the finest in watch making.

About Ernest Jones: The Diamond and Watch Specialist
Celebrating 60 years as the nation's leading high street Diamond and Watch Specialist, Ernest Jones, has over 200 stores and a retail website at www.ernestjones.co.uk. Featuring a wide range of leading brand watches and high quality jewellery, Ernest Jones also has a stunning selection of gifts for all occasions. Ernest Jones is part of Signet Jewellers Limited, the world's largest speciality retail jeweller.

From modest beginnings in 1949, Ernest Jones has grown from a single store in London's Oxford Street to the a highly reputable national chain - bringing to suburban and provincial locations the quality, range, presentation and high standard of customer service once only available in London's West End.

Contact Details:
Tim Lundberg
Copywriter E-Commerce Marketing
Ernest Jones
Imperial Place
3 Maxwell Road
Borehamwood
Herts
WD6 1JN
0208 207 8312
www.ernestjones.co.uk

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Just like any other online retail business, Cloggs relies completely on the UK postal service to deliver shoes and boots to its customers on time. With Royal Mail strikes posing a real threat to online traders, Cloggs.co.uk didn't want its customers to worry unnecessarily, especially in the run up to Christmas. Cloggs' proactive, forward thinking attitude has ensured that this will not be the case.

Even though Cloggs only use Royal Mail 'Tracked' services (which they have been assured by senior management at Royal Mail will remain unaffected by the strike - even if senior managers have to hand deliver them themselves), Cloggs wanted to completely reassure customers and offer them alternative delivery methods.

Instead of customers wondering when their top brand shoes and boots like the latest UGGs would show up once they have ordered, Cloggs is offering people the choice, at checkout, to opt for a Priority free delivery service via HDNL (the UK's largest home delivery service).

It's easy to opt for the free 1-2 day priority service via HDNL on the Cloggs.co.uk website. Whether purchasers want to buy a pair of UGG Boots like the latest UGG Bailey Button, Fitflop Boots, Dr Martens Boots and Timberland Boots, or even a pair of winter Crocs, this delivery option is selected as standard on the order summary page. All buyers have to do is fill out the details required and let Cloggs do the rest.

Nick Thomas, Cloggs.co.uk Director, said:

"As we primarily conduct business online, it is vital to us that the shoes that we sell are delivered to customers in a timely manner, whatever the cost to our business. We have always offered a free delivery service to our customers via Royal Mail, but as strikes are unnerving buyers, we wanted to offer an alternative that was still free. That is why we are now promoting our 1-2 day delivery service via HDNL. It's a simple alternative that offers our customers choice, and the chance to get their top brand shoes fast."

Royal Mail strikes are a serious concern to online shoe retailers like Cloggs. With recent surveys indicating that postal strikes could cause serious damage to E-commerce sales (which are set to top £50bn in 2009), Cloggs has acted fast to avoid any negative impact on customer experience in its online store.

About Cloggs:
With over 35 years of trading experience, Cloggs has long been at the forefront of cutting edge British shoe retail. With a focus on in season fashion footwear, quality customer service, competitive prices and extensive selection, Cloggs.co.uk stocks over 20,000 items including its popular range of UGGs like Classic Short UGG, Classic Tall UGG and the brand new design for this winter, the UGG Bailey Button.

Cloggs PR contact:
Tricia Williams
Cloggs
Online Marketing Manager
110-114 Corporation Street
Birmingham
West Midlands
B4 6SX
0121 237 5528
www.cloggs.co.uk

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This year's auction features items and jewelry from artists with disabilities as well as a plethora of unique gift packages. Bidders will have opportunities to obtain Blackhawks box seats, Bulls tickets, or enjoy a Dinner Cruise on Free Spirit Yacht. Ample chances remain to win $1,000 in cash with raffle tickets going for $10 each or 6 for $50, and purchasers need not be present to win.

Entertainment for the fun-filled afternoon will include a fashion show of casual business wear provided by Carson's and J. Jill's of Orland Park. Join us as we cheer our amateur models of Garden Center participants with disabilities and their family members! A performance by the Garden Center choir is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face, and Fun-Fun-Fun DJ's will provide dance music as we celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of adults with disabilities living independent lives.

All proceeds generated from this stellar event will benefit Garden Center Services in their mission to provide living and working opportunities for individuals with cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, and other developmental disabilities.

Garden Center grows dignity and independence by providing homes and work opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. The 53rd Annual Fashion Show Luncheon will take place on Sunday Nov 1, 2009 from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm, at the grandiose Lexington House located at in Hickory Hills. Luncheon reservations are accepted anytime. Come and be a part of one of the year's most exciting benefits while helping individuals with disabilities live and work in the community.

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