2018 Holiday Gift Ideas!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, yes, the holiday season. Time to eat, drink, enjoy some wonderful family time and buy holiday gifts for your loved ones, or yourself. Here are few unique recommendations from us

A CUSTOM TAILORED SUIT by MOHAN CUSTOM TAILORS: You have to agree that any man looks great in a well fitting suit. Now a custom tailored is not a luxury item only for the riches. With Mohan’s Custom Tailors, you can get a custom tailored suit starting at just few hundred dollars. And they have some amazing holiday special deals as well. This will be a gift to last for years!

SKATEBOARDS by BEASTIE BOARDS: You may not be feeling the urge to spend a few hundred dollars and may not need a suit. How about a skateboard? Even if you are not a skateboarding enthusiasts, these beautiful skateboards adored by beautiful art, will make a great and unique decoration piece for any wall. A unique gift for that unique person in your life!

• Designer Glasses and Mugs by ROOT7: We all need and use mugs and glasses, but why not get something really unique and special? They have many cool things but her are 2 specific suggestions that I loved.

  • Shots of Himalayan salt. Yes, you can do your shots in shot glasses made of Himalayan salt.

  • Root 7 Geo Glasses are unique geometrical shapes and great quality. Forget about boring round glasses, try something geometric and unique!

  • Your morning cup of coffee will feel even better with a colorful Ombre Mug. It also feels really good to hold, seriously!

While we are talking about mugs, this cute color changing UNICORN mug is just adorable. For kids or for yourself!

• Theater tickets for kids and family: If you’re in NYC, why not take your kids and family to a kid-friendly theater show, in Manhattan. The NEW VICTORY THEATER is a perfect place for that.

Keep an eye here for more gift suggestions to be coming in upcoming days/weeks.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

32nd National Equal Justice Awards Dinner Hosted by the NAACP LDF

(NEW YORK) – November 2, 2018 – Last night, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc (LDF) hosted their 32ndNational Equal Justice Awards Dinner (NEJAD) at the Ziegfeld Ballroom where they celebrated the achievements of several distinguished civil and human rights leaders and raised over $2 million to help further the mission of the LDF. 

In front of an audience of 650, Marian Wright Edelman (Founder/President of the Children’s Defense Fund) and Judge U.W. Clemon (Alabama’s first African-American federal judge) received the Thurgood Marshall Lifetime Achievement Award, while theNational Equal Justice Award went to Bryan Stevenson (Founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative) and philanthropist couple Dr. P. Roy Vagelos (Chairman of the Board, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) and Diana Vagelos (Vice Chairman of Barnard Board of Trustees and Vice President/Treasurer of the Marianthi Foundation, Inc.).

Honoree Marian Wright Edelman speaks onstage at the NAACP LDF 32nd National Equal Justice Awards Dinner at The Ziegfeld Ballroom on November 1, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for NAACP LDF)

Honoree Bryan Stevenson speaks onstage at the NAACP LDF 32nd National Equal Justice Awards Dinner at The Ziegfeld Ballroom on November 1, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for NAACP LDF)

Kenneth Frazier and Robyn Coles speak onstage at the NAACP LDF 32nd National Equal Justice Awards Dinner at The Ziegfeld Ballroom on November 1, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for NAACP LDF)

Sherri Brewer, Marian Wright Edelman and U.W. Clemon attend the NAACP LDF 32nd National Equal Justice Awards Dinner at The Ziegfeld Ballroom on November 1, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for NAACP LDF)

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Honoree Bryan Stevenson, LDF president Sherrilyn Ifill and Kendrick Sampson attend the NAACP LDF 32nd National Equal Justice Awards Dinner at The Ziegfeld Ballroom on November 1, 2018 in New York City.

Additional attendees included author Ta-Nehisi Coates, “Insecure” actor Kendrick Sampson, Women’s March co-chair Linda Sarsour, Miss Haiti 2014 Christie Desir, and writer Jamilah Lemieux. TV and radio personality Jacque Reid served as emcee.

With the mid-term elections just five days away, voting was on everyone’s mind. LDF president and director-counsel Sherrilyn Ifillpresented a short documentary (produced by filmmaker Crystal McCrary McGuire) that chronicled the work of the LDF and the challenges they face in today’s political climate. The video featured commentary from LDF associate director-counsel Janai Nelsonamong others and underscored the evening’s theme of “Justice. Equality. Democracy.” 

In keeping with that theme, Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist Renee Elise Goldsberry performed the inspirational song “People Get Ready,” once sung by Aretha Franklin whose music was highlighted throughout the dinner.

“I’m standing on the shoulders of people who did so much more with so much less,” said Stevenson during his acceptance speech. “My grandfather realized that slavery didn’t end in 1865, it evolved. So he taught his daughter – my grandmother – that she had to fight. We cannot celebrate civil rights if we’re not willing to fight. We’ve got to fight!”

Special thanks to National Equal Justice Awards Dinner honorary chairs Kenneth and Andrea Frazier, co-chairs Angela Vallotand Kim Koopersmith and the entire LDF staff.

For video highlights from #NEJAD18, visit naacpldf.org.

About the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.

Founded in 1940, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF) is the nation’s first civil and human rights law organization and has been completely separate from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) since 1957—although LDF was originally founded by the NAACP and shares its commitment to equal rights. LDF’s Thurgood Marshall Institute is a multi-disciplinary and collaborative hub within LDF that launches targeted campaigns and undertakes innovative research to shape the civil rights narrative. In media attributions, please refer to us as the NAACP Legal Defense Fund or LDF.

VISIT INDIA for FREE: Government of India's initiative 'Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz', the date for submission of application has been extended till Oct 15

Government of India's initiative is 'Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz', the date for submission of application has been extended till Oct 15. You can win a chance to visit India and win other prizes. Check below fro details.

https://www.bharatkojaniye.in/

Independence Day Celebrations 15 August 2018 at Consulate General of India, New York

72nd Independence Day of India - 15 August 2018

On the occasion of 72nd Independence Day of India, Consul General, Sandeep Chakravorty hoisted the National Flag at the Consulate premises in the morning of 15 August. It was followed by the playing of the National Anthem. Consul General read out President’s Address to the Nation delivered on the eve of the Independence Day.

2. More than 200 people including prominent members of the Indian community and local dignitaries including Congresswoman Grace Meng, Assemblyman David Weprin, Assemblyman Raj Mukherjee, Senator Vin Gopal and also Bollywood actor Anupam Kher attended the ceremony.

3. A short cultural program was held by Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan, which included singing of patriotic songs and poetry recitation.

4. At the initiative of local Indian community organizations, iconic monuments in New York and surrounding areas were lit up on the occasion with the colors of the Indian flag. These included the Empire State Building, Niagara Falls among others.

5. This year, on the occasion of India's Independence Day, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) sponsored a seven member group consisting of acclaimed Kathak dancers - Sandip Mallick & group with Anuj Mishra and group to present Kathak! A short glimpse of their performances were shown during the morning ceremony.

6. The team in collaboration with this Consulate & Battery Dance Company will be performing at Robert F. Wagner Park this evening; Saraswathi Hall, The Hindu Temple Society of North America on August 16 and finally at Navatman's Drive East Festival on August 17 before heading to Dallas for other scheduled performances.

7. PTC Broadcasting did a live telecast of today's event; link: https://www.facebook.com/USAPTCPunjabi/videos/244289326412218/

15 August 2018 New York

Dhai Akhar ~ a Letter Writing Campaign for Indian Diaspora

Here's the information and terms/ conditions on  "Dhai Akhar”, a Letter Writing Campaign for Indian Diaspora on the topic “Letter to My Motherland ” inspired by Rabindranath Tagore’s “Amar Desher Mati".  This competition is open for all age groups.

Details of Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Campaign to be organized at International Level are as under: -

I. Theme: The theme of the Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Campaign will be “

Letter to my motherland

/ मर दश क नाम खत” inspired by Rabindranath Tagore’s “Amar Desher Mati”. The letter is to be written in English/Hindi or any of the official languages mentioned in 8th Schedule of the Constitution of India. The categories for International Level Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Campaign are as follows:

(i) Up to 18 years (ii) Above 18 years.

II. Proof of age: The participants have to give a certificate of their age on the letter such as “I certify that I am Below/above the age of 18 as on 01/01/2018” along with one copy of proof of date of birth so that the age of the writers of winning entries can be verified with proof of their date of birth.

III. The campaign will start from 01-07-2018 till 30-09-2018. The letter can be written on plain A-4 size paper with a word limit of not more than 1000 words and is to be sent to Assistant Director General (Philately), Department of Posts, Room No. 108, Dak Bhawan, Sansad Marg, New Delhi - 110001. Only handwritten letters posted by 30-09-2018 will be accepted. A scanned copy of the letter can be submitted on the MyGov portal by 30-09- 2018 (23:59 IST); however, it is compulsory that a hard copy of the letter bearing dispatch postmark of not later than 30-09-2018 be sent by post. Letters uploaded on the MyGov portal on 30-09-2018 but bearing a postmark after 30-09-2018 will not be entertained.

IV. All Non-resident Indians and Persons of Indian Origin living outside India can participate in the International Level Dhai Akhar Letter Writing Campaign. The participants have to give a certificate on the letter saying “I certify that I am Non-resident Indian or Person of Indian Origin (as applicable) residing in ________ (country’s name)”.

V. Evaluation: All the letters received from the Indian diaspora residing in other countries

will be evaluated by constituting Committees at the Postal Directorate level.

VI. Prizes: The top three letters in each category will be awarded prizes in the following way:

Prize to be given to top three Letters in each category at International Level:

Prize Category Prize Amount First Prize in each Category Rs. 50,000/- (Rs. Fifty thousand only) Second Prize in each Category Rs. 25,000/- (Rs. Twenty five thousand only) Third Prize in each Category Rs. 10,000/- (Rs. Ten thousand only)

6 Gift Ideas for Father's Day

Father's Day is right around the corner, on June 17th, and you most probably are looking for a gift. Either you are a father, or you're looking for a gift for your father, it's never easy to find the right thing. Here are a few interesting suggestions:

• Custom tailored suit from Mohan's Custom Tailors: A suit can completely change how a man looks, in a good way. And a custom tailored, perfect fitting suit, is what can take it to the next level. Designer suits are not just luxury of the rich elites. At Mohan's custom suits, starting at just $699, you can get an amazing custom tailored suit, designed and made just for you, with a monogram and several amazing options. It's money well spent, for something very precious that will last for years.
• Designer sunglasses from PRIVE REVAUX: If $699 seems too much, how about amazing designer sunglasses, backed by Jamie Foxx, for just $29.95. Yes, you can get high quality designer brand polarized sunglasses for under $30 from Prove Revaux. Checkout the collection and you can pick one for the dad and one (or more) for the son/daughter too.
• TIMEX watch: How about something classic? Like the new MK1 Stainless Steel Chronograph carries a tough look and feel. The MK1 Steel Chronograph delivers a strong profile to attain distinction and quality, with an acrylic domed crystal it is complimented by a premium Italian oxford weave cotton strap and brushed steel finished eyelets to ensure a durable fit. Or the Timex SupernovaTM is a new way to experience our INDIGLO® Night – Light technology. A thin layer of metal is placed on top of the dial and using precision laser cutting techniques, the top layer is perforated to allow for the light to pass through, creating a new and unique way to illuminate the dial. Both priced at only $119, available at timex.com.
• A Cosmetics gift-set from RITUALS: All men can use some shower gel, shampoo, soap, shaving cream etc. But why not get them something special, something cool. You cannot go wrong with for only RITUALS The Ritual of Samurai - Refreshing Ritual Gift Set $45, or RITUALS The Ritual of Dao - Calming Collection for only $65.
• Perfume spray from CLEAN: Try something new and unique with CLEAN Reserve Sueded Oud. It is a fresh and creamy approach to a traditional oud fragrance. It is a discovery of natural textures and an exploration of the fluid movement between the brighter and darker facets of fragrance. Price & Availability: $95 at Sephora. Or CLEAN Reserve Acqua Neroli which combines the best of summer into one bottle, blending Acqua Musk with a sparkling freshness from bergamot, mandarin and orange Sicilian into a scent inspired by the Mediterranean sea. Price & Availability: $95, Sephora.com
• A Broadway Show: TONYs just finished and if you are in New York City, there's noting better than checking out a TONY winner, TONY nominated or just any damn broadway show. From classics like LION KING, THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, WICKED, to spectacular hits like HAMILTON, BOOK OF MORMON, ALADDIN to newcomers like HARRY POTTER, FROZEN and many many others. Check them out!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!

Samsung Unveils the Galaxy S9 and S9+

Today in Barcelona, Samsung announced the new Galaxy S9 and S9+at Unpacked. Designed for the ways we communicate and express ourselves with images, videos and emojis, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ feature Samsung’s most advanced camera ever. Redesigned with a new dual aperture lens that powers an innovative low light camera, Super Slow-mo video capabilities and personalized AR Emoji, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ ensure you never miss a moment and make your everyday epic.

Highlights include:

·         Samsung’s most advanced camera ever has a new Super Speed Dual Pixel sensor and dual aperture lens for even better low-light shots, Super Slow-mo video capabilities.

·         With AR Emoji users can create an emoji that looks, sounds and acts just like them for true personalization. AR Emoji uses a standard AGIF file format, so users can share their emojis across most third-party messaging platforms.

·         Bixby, Samsung’s intelligence platform, is integrated into the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ camera and uses augmented reality to provide helpful information. New Bixby features include Live Translation for real time foreign language translation, Food calorie counter and Makeup with Sephora and CoverGirl. New shopping partners, include Walmart and Sam’s Club.

·         Enhanced entertainment experience with powerful stereo speakers tuned by AKG and supported by Dolby Atmos and a refined edge-to-edge Infinity Display 

·         The new SmartThings app that brings together Samsung’s existing IoT services into one single smart experience

The Galaxy S9 and S9+ will be available in the U.S. starting March 16, 2018. Pre-orders begin March 2, 2018. Staring March 2, consumers who pre-order a Samsung Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S9+ can save up to $350 with qualifying trade-in.

Available through Samsung.com and the Shop Samsung app, the Unlocked Galaxy S9 is $719.99 or $30/month for 24 months financing, and the larger Unlocked Galaxy S9+ is available for $839.99 or $35/month for 24 months financing.

Built for the Way We Communicate Today: Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ 

The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ fuel new discoveries with Super Slow-mo video, best-in-class low light camera and AR Emoji for a more personalized way to express yourself

 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. introduces the Samsung Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+, the smartphones that reimagine the way we communicate, share and experience the world. Made for the ways we increasingly communicate and express ourselves with images, videos and emojis, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ drive innovation with Samsung’s most advanced camera ever. Redesigned with a new dual aperture lens that powers an innovative low light camera, Super Slow-mo video capabilities and personalized AR Emoji, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ ensure you never miss a moment and make your everyday epic.

The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ deliver an enhanced entertainment experience with powerful stereo speakers tuned by AKG, surround sound supported by Dolby Atmos and a refined edge-to-edge Infinity Display – a key staple in Samsung’s design heritage. In addition, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ will come with the new SmartThings app, which unites Samsung’s existing IoT services into one single, smart experience.  

“The way we use our smartphones has changed as communication and self-expression has evolved,” said DJ Koh, president and Head of IT & Mobile Communications Division, Samsung Electronics. “With the Galaxy S9 and S9+, we have reimagined the smartphone camera. Not only does the Galaxy S9 and S9+ enable consumers to shoot the best photos and videos anywhere, it’s a smartphone that’s designed to help them connect to others and express themselves in a way that’s unique and personal to them.”

Camera Reimagined

Today’s cameras are for more than taking pictures – they’re for connecting and communicating. Consumers want a smartphone camera with state-of-the-art technology, so they can express themselves with high-quality images and tools to tell their own, unique story. The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ cameras are built with these consumers in mind, with a Super Speed Dual Pixel sensor with dedicated processing power and memory that can combine up to 12 distinct images into one amazing, high quality photo. The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ camera features include:

• Super Slow-mo: Make every day moments epic with dynamic, slow-motion video that captures 960 frames per second. The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ also offers automatic Motion Detection, an intelligent feature that detects movement in the frame and automatically begins to record – all users have to do is set up the shot. After capturing the Super Slow-mo video, users can select background music from 35 different options. 
   
• Low Light Camera: Good lighting is the secret to any great photo. But often, photos are taken in less-than-ideal lighting conditions and most smartphone cameras have a fixed aperture that can’t adjust to low or bright lighting environments resulting in grainy or washed out pictures. Similar to the way the iris of a human eye expands and contracts, Samsung’s Dual Aperture[1] (F1.5 – F2.4) automatically lets in more light when it’s dark and less light when it’s too bright, taking photos that are crisp and clear anytime, anywhere. 
   
• AR Emoji: Samsung lets users create an emoji that looks, sounds and acts just like them. AR Emoji uses a data-based machine learning algorithm, which analyzes a 2D image of the user and maps out more than 100 facial features to create a 3D model that reflects and imitates expressions, like winks and nods, for true personalization. AR Emoji uses a standard AGIF file format, so users can share their emojis across most third-party messaging platforms. 
   
• Bixby: Samsung’s intelligence platform, integrated into the camera, uses augmented reality and deep learning technologies to provide helpful information about a user’s surroundings.[2] With real-time object detection and recognition, Bixby instantly generates information directly on top of the image that the camera is pointing at. Users can translate foreign languages and currency in real time with Live Translation, learn about their surroundings, purchase products seen in the real world from retailers such as Walmart and Sam’s Club, or track calories throughout the day.[3]

Entertainment Reimagined

Smartphones are often our go-to choice for entertainment, which is why Samsung created a device that offers premium sound experiences with stereo speakers tuned by AKG. Whether users are watching their favorite movie or streaming their favorite artist’s latest album, sounds are clear, crisp and rich in quality. The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ also support Dolby Atmos enabled surround sound, giving the effect of 360-degree sound. 

The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ audio experience is complemented by Samsung’s revolutionary Infinity Display. First introduced on the Galaxy S8, the bold, bright Super AMOLED Infinity Display blends right into the phone with virtually no distracting bezels. With an adaptive contrast enhancement, users can use their device even in direct sunlight.

A Device that Fits with the Connected Lifestyle

As the first smartphone to support the new SmartThings app, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ are the central hub to manage every facet of the connected lifestyle at home, at the office or on the go. The SmartThings App will be introduced with S9 and Galaxy S9+ and will connect to other Samsung and non-Samsung devices.

For those constantly on the move, the next-generation Samsung DeX empowers a mobile lifestyle by bringing a large, full-screen experience to the mobile handset. With DeX Pad, a new docking system, users can easily connect the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ to a larger monitor, keyboard and mouse to expand the mobile experience with enhanced document editing or even full-screen gaming. Users can transform the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ into a Touch Keyboard[4] and Touch Pad with the DeX Pad.[5] 

The Best Comes Standard with the Galaxy Foundation
Samsung sets the gold standard for smartphones including IP68 water and dust resistance, and fast wireless charging. The Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ go a step beyond. The devices now support expandable memory of up to 400GB and are equipped with the latest premium application processors offering powerful performance, fast network speeds and sophisticated image processing.

In addition, the Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ give users the peace of mind knowing that their phone is protected by Knox 3.1, Samsung’s latest defense-grade security platform. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ support three different biometric authentication options – iris, fingerprint, and facial recognition – so users can choose the best way to protect their device and applications. The devices support Intelligent Scan, a new verification mode that intelligently fuses the collective strength of iris scanning and facial recognition technology to quickly and conveniently unlock a user’s phone in any environment. The Galaxy S9 and S9+ introduce Dedicated Fingerprint, giving users the option to use a different fingerprint to access Secure Folder than the one used to unlock the phone.

Preorder and Availability

In the U.S., Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ will be offered in Lilac Purple, Midnight Black and Coral Blue for carrier and Unlocked by Samsung versions. Preorders begin March 2, 2018. AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular, Verizon Wireless and Xfinity mobile will carry Galaxy S9 and Galaxy S9+ in stores beginning March 16, 2018, as well as at Best Buy stores and BestBuy.com, Amazon, Costco, Sam’s Club, Target and Walmart. Cricket Wireless and MetroPCS will offer Galaxy S9 and S9+ in Midnight Black. Samsung Galaxy S9 Enterprise Edition will be available in Midnight Black. The new devices will be available beginning March 16, 2018.  

Available through Samsung.com and the Shop Samsung app, the Unlocked Galaxy S9 is $719.99 or $30/month for 24 months financing, and the larger Unlocked Galaxy S9+ is available for $839.99 or $35/month for 24 months financing[6].

Starting March 2, 2018, consumers who pre-order a Samsung Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S9+ can save up to $350 with qualifying trade-in[7]. The promotion will last for a limited time and is available at Samsung.com, the Shop Samsung app and select retailers. Visit samsung.com/us/trade-in for more information. 

Samsung Premium Care

With Samsung Premium Care, you get more than just protection for your device, you get a team of Samsung pros ready to come to you. Just pick the time and place, and they’ll provide one-on-one technical support and assistance for everything from the setup of your device, to troubleshooting, to hand delivery of a replacement should anything happen to your phone. Premium Care is part of Samsung’s commitment to ensure that your location is our location, anywhere in the U.S. Enroll your new Galaxy S9 or Galaxy S9+ and get one month of protection free. For more information, please visit:http://www.samsung.com/us/support/premium-care/.

 For more information about the Galaxy S9, visit http://www.samsungmobilepress.com/, news.samsung.com/us/galaxy-s9/ or www.samsung.com/galaxy.

 About Samsung Electronics America, Inc.

Headquartered in Ridgefield Park, N.J., Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (SEA) is a recognized innovative leader in consumer electronics, mobile devices and enterprise solutions. A wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., SEA is pushing beyond the limits of today’s technology and providing consumers and organizations with a portfolio of groundbreaking products in appliances, home entertainment, Internet of Things, mobile computing, smartphones, virtual reality, wireless infrastructure and wearables, in addition to offering leading content and services related to mobile payments, 360-degree VR video, customer support and more. Samsung is a pioneering leader in smartphones and HDTVs in the U.S. and one of America’s fastest growing home appliance brands. To discover more about Samsung, please visit www.samsung.com. For the latest Samsung news, please visit news.samsung.com/us and follow us @SamsungNewsUS.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, digital appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at http://news.samsung.com.

[1] The Dual Aperture supports F1.5 mode and F2.4 mode. Dual Aperture is installed on the rear camera (Galaxy S9) and rear wide-camera (Galaxy S9+)

[2] Bixby service ability may vary by country or carrier. Samsung Account log-in and data network (wifi or internet connection) required to fully operate Bixby features. Voice Command recognizes English (U.S.), Mandarin Chinese and Korean. Not all accents, dialects and expressions are recognized. Voice Command works with a select, growing list of Samsung and third-party apps. See “Apps with Voice” in Bixby for a list of compatible apps.

[3] Samsung Account log-in and data network (wifi or internet connection) required. Translation speed may vary depending on internet connection and word count. This function is limited to selected languages. For the full list of languages please visit www.samsung.com/galaxy

[4] Touch Keyboard function to be included in the upcoming software update.

[5] DeX Pad will come with HDMI cable, wall charger and data cable. Use of original HDMI cable and charger included with DeX Pad is recommended. Accessories including monitor sold separately. To utilize DeX (Galaxy Desktop), either DeX Station or DeX Pad is required. Both are sold separately. Certain apps may not run or may require license (for purchase) on Samsung DeX. DeX Pad supports Galaxy S9/S9+ only. (Galaxy S8/S8+ and Galaxy Note8 may be supported later with OS update.)

[6] Subject to credit approval from Samsung Financing Program Account issued by TD Bank, N.A.

[7] Terms and conditions apply and vary by retailer.

[8] Screen measured diagonally as a full rectangle without accounting for the rounded corners

[9] Default resolution is Full HD+ and can be changed to Quad HD+ (WQHD+) in Settings

[10] Carrying an IP68 dust and water resistance rating. Based on test conditions of submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for up to 30 minutes

[11] May differ by market and mobile operator

[12] User memory is less than the total memory due to storage of the operating system and software used to operate the device features. Actual user memory will vary depending on the operator and may change after software upgrades are performed.

[13] Galileo and BeiDou coverage may be limited

Jamie Foxx bringing “shade” in Manhattan, with Privé Revaux Eyewear

I was strolling in Manhattan and minding my own business, and I ran right into a sly Foxx!

Academy Award-winning and all over “good guy” Jamie Foxx stepped into the eyewear industry, teaming up with Privé Revaux Eyewear a company that’s describe as being “built on a shared passion for style and quality with the goal of making it accessible in ways never seen until now. “

Mr. Foxx, one of the company’s brand partners stopped by the mid-town Manhattan location, which has a subway car prop in the rear, and the party started.  He “literally” entered to the sounds of salsa music being played by a popular Bronx band. Sporting a Louis Vuitton backpack that just might be a custom design, the gifted funny, funny, funny Foxx flirted as he moved through the crowd.

Foxx was loaded with jokes but when it came to talking about the frames on his handsome face, he was all about the business.  

“Every one of the Privé Revaux sunglasses is just $29.95. That’s like nothing, you can lose...like three, and come back and buy three more,” Foxx joked. “Here’s the thing, I mean, you don’t have to spend a billion dollars to look great. Right?  I thought what if we do an affordable eyewear under $30? Even though it’s inexpensive, we’ll make sure we don’t spare any cost when it comes to making the product.”

He continued:  "Anything I wear and I post on Instagram, people automatically think it's high end.  That gave me an idea. I picked up the phone. I made 'that call' and bam affordable hotness."

The connection that Foxx was referring to was with “serial” entrepreneur David Schottenstein whose idea is to simply “disrupt” the eyewear market. To do that, and to ensure the brand’s success he turned to Foxx, as well as Hailee Steinfeld and Ashley Benson, who are all style ambassadors. 

There are over 100 handcrafted and polarized designer frames (each costing $29.95) and it’s about the Privé Revaux Eyewear quality.   Each of the 100+ Privé styles is named to evoke a persona, from The Artist and The Socialite to The Boss and The Godfather, all to show that everyone can be anyone when you reframe yourself with Privé Revaux.

“What I love, what I really love,” said Foxx as he danced through the crowd, “is giving people quality and style. Style and quality. Quality…and style…and at a price that won’t lean on their wallets and that’s Privé Revaux Eyewear."

Lunch Box Pioneers Prepd Launch Two New Colors

Slimline, stylish and durable, each Prepd Pack is handcrafted from high-quality, natural bamboo. The case has a secure enclosure that keeps everything that keeps everything in place.

Available from the 5th of February 2018, the new sleek Peach and Mint color options are bright alternatives to Prepd Pack’s classic turquoise design, and promise to brighten up the saddest of desk lunches.
 

Prepd recipes are meticulously tailored to fit Prepd Pack’s containers perfectly.

Designed with convenience and wellness in mind, a Prepd Pack ($69) encourages users to create vibrant, diverse and healthful meals with its unique modular design

Prepd, pioneering makers of refined lunch boxes for adults, have launched two trendy new colors in celebration of the brand’s second birthday. Available 5 February 2018, the new sleek Peach and Mint color options are bright alternatives to Prepd Pack’s classic turquoise design, and promise to brighten up the saddest of desk lunches.

Designed with convenience and wellness in mind, a Prepd Pack ($69) encourages users to create vibrant, diverse and healthful meals with its unique modular design and complimentary Prepd App, which features over 85 easy-to-make recipes that include a comprehensive nutritional breakdown for each dish. Prepd recipes are meticulously tailored to fit Prepd Pack’s BPA free containers perfectly, allowing for easy upload of nutritional data to the iPhone health app.

“The average American dine-out lunch costs an eye-watering $11.14 and food waste is common due to oversized portions. The average Prepd lunch only costs $6.30 — an almost 200% saving, and smart meal planning can prevent quality ingredients from ending up in the trash. Our app provides meal inspiration and helps users track both calorie intake and daily nutrition at the touch of a button,” says Co-Founder Chris Place. “We couldn’t be happier about the positive impact that the Prepd Pack has had on so many. Not only is our growing community taking healthy lunches more regularly and saving money doing so, together we are also making a huge reduction in the amount of disposable packaging waste.” 

Having been featured on Oprah Winfrey’s coveted Oprah’s Favorite Things list 2017 and collaborating with home-cooking icon Blue Apron to help their users pack their meal kits for lunch, Prepd’s success is set to continue through 2018 with two new fun colors joining the family. Equipped with a full-set of containers and magnetic cutlery, all that is left to do is choose a recipe. Supplementary containers ($29) and cooling Cool Sticks, all of which slip seamlessly into the Prepd Pack, can be purchased for even greater flexibility, along with a premium neoprene Prepd Sleeve ($19) for added protection and wrist carrying.

Slimline, stylish and durable, each Prepd Pack is handcrafted from high-quality, natural bamboo. The case has a secure enclosure that keeps everything in place.

About Prepd

Say goodbye to the sad desk lunch! The Prepd Pack is equal parts stylish and functional.

Prepd is the creation of designers Chris Place and Will Matters. Formed in 2015 with a goal of making healthy living easier through good design, Prepd Pack is the brand’s first product.. 

Prepd's first Prepd Pack was originally brought to life through Kickstarter in January 2016 and raised just under $3M through crowdfunding. 2 years on the Prepd community has grown to over 50,000 users who take 529,000 meals to work in their Prepd Packs every month, potentially saving up to 6.35 million sets of single-use disposable packaging from take out restaurants each year.

Built to last, Slimline Prepd Packs are handcrafted from high-quality natural bamboo, and come with three premium leak-proof containers that can be arranged in multiple configurations to suit whatever is on the menu that day. An integrated placemat and a set of magnetic silverware means you can open up and enjoy your meal anywhere without rummaging around for utensils or worrying about making a mess. Lunch is served!

For an extra layer of protection, check out our Prepd Sleeve. Looking for more containers? Check out our extra Prepd Container Set. To keep your food extra cool and fresh for longer, try our Cool Sticks.

Key features of Prepd Pack include:

· Slim and durable Bamboo carry case.
· Food Safe, Leakproof Tritan containers.
· Stackable modular containers system.
· Ice packs that neatly fit into the side of the lunchbox

Free shipping world wide. 

UNIQUE HOLIDAY GIFT CHOICES, with STYLE!

Here are a few ideas to shake up the coming holiday season.

Stocking stuffers suggestions:  Just Zip It (www.just-zipit.com).  They have googly-eyes but these pouches from ZIPIT rock.  Made from 100% polyester, with large, “grip” teeth, the pouch can hold up to 30 pencils, collectibles, change and more. It’s machine-washable and comes in four different colors: black, blue, pink and purple.

Decal for the Day is new rub-on decals from OMY (omy-maison.com). There are different themes, like Paris, NYC, and even letters. Over 120 designs transfer easily. There’s no commitment because these decals wear away naturally and wash off clothes, too!

Finger Friends (landofnod.com) This cool fingernail kit comes with 25 animal stickers that are perfectly sized for little digits. Tigers, pandas, monkeys and more!

Made By us and For Us. Send the right message to the kids in your life. 

Kimberly Jesika’s network and doll empire must be seen to be believed. She’s the savvy CEO behind the KidPire TV NETWORK (English and Spanish). Her Kimy fashion dolls with their cool bun— signature hairdo are popular! Jesika also cartoons on the Kidpire TV network. and books available on Amazon. @kidpiretvnetwork @dollfaceanimatedfilms @kimyfashiondoll

https://www.amazon.com/Kimberly-J.-Bowles/e/B008EEU0M2

The joy of reading can be achieved in this fast, mobile society.  

iTunes offers Donna Beasley’s KaZoom Kids Books.  Created and illustrated by creatives of color, the library of interactive, multicultural books are designed to inspire children ages 3-8 to love reading. These are fun stories, featuring diverse characters, beautifully illustrated and with read-along narration. Designed so kids can use independently. Get 2 books free, and then subscribe to access all titles. 

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/kazoom-kids-books/id1267330218?mt=8

Coding is more than fun, it's essential education.  Kids with basic coding fundamentals give an edge to students.  Finding the right way to motivate your child can make all the difference, so here are selections are broken down by age group.

Ages 5 – 8:  Ozobot robot does not use a smartphone or remote control, children draw lines with different colored markers to ‘program’ Evo. It can also be controlled with a phone or tablet, and it supports a drag and drop programming language, but the tactile sensation of ‘coloring’ with markers is a fantastic way to relate logic problems to children.

Wonder Workshop’s Cue will get a lot more mileage out of Cue’s personalities than preteens and teens, but it’s still a premium quality robot toy for any age. Kids can learn programming skills and create routines for their robot complete with sounds and lights.

Ages 8 – 12: Kamigami: Insect-like robots that kids assemble by folding plastic together. These fully-functional robots teach kids several STEM skills – and if you get a couple of these robots together they interact. These are fine for smaller kids too.

Code: Board games from ThinkFun don’t require any apps or screens to play. They come in several options and are popular with educators who want to introduce the fundamentals of code to children. Hour of Code website lists hundreds of educational games and activities. 

Beauty Products make great gifts and Hollywood Pro Makeup Artist, Daurisa Tessier (daurisatessier.com) recommended these choices for the Holiday season.

Fenty Beauty by Rihana Gloss and the Kiawatt Freestyle Highlighter Duo.  From MAC the paint pots eyeshadow primers and the Nude lipstick Razzledazzler. From Hourglass the Veil Mineral Primer,  Ambient® Lighting Palette and the Hourglass. Vanish™ Seamless Finish Foundation Stick. From Marc Jacob its the Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara and for full coverage you can’t get better than Marc Jacobs Re (Marc)able Foundations. 

5 Amazing Holiday gifts for 2017!

Holiday season is time for celebrations, joy, fun and gifts! Giving gifts to your family & friends, and sometimes just yourself is just essential. But picking a good gift can be challenging in the times like these. There's just too many options out there. So here are some unique and amazing holiday gift suggestions from us.

• Do you love music? Do you like to hear every beat and sound crystal clear? Are you an audiophile? Then the usual earphones that your phone came with, or even the ones you buy online for $20-$30, is just not going to cut it. You know that. But if you are ready to spend just little more money, there are these amazing headphones from ECHOBOX. I tried both Finder and Traveller, and they are AMAZING. I'm nothing to give you a lot of technical jargon, you can go to their site and check the details. But I'll tell you that they sound amazing. And they DO NOT TANGLE. That's big for me. I have had $200 earphones, that tangled. These are just amazing. Sound is just superb. And right now, you can grab these on some amazing discount this holiday season. Checkout more on their site.

• Candles have become the easiest and most common gift to give these days. But it's not really easy to find some exceptional candles. The market is filled with all sort of products, and finding something good can be very very hard. Hence we recommend candles from ToBeCalm Frangrences. There collection is amazing, and you'll definitely find something you love. Just give them a try. They even have holiday special candles! Checkout their fragrances, essential oils and other products as well.

• It's getting cold outside, and your feet probably feel that cold. There's a beautiful and super comfortable way to keep your feet warm - TIME Slippers. I tried my first pair last year, and I have been a fan since. They make everything from slippers to boots, for both men and women. Available in several colors and designs, you will definitely find something that you and your feet would love. Get them for yourself, or the special one around you. Check them out now!

• Either you wear them for sun, for vision or just for fun, glasses are always cool, all year round. My favorite place to get some amazing glasses happens to be CoastalDotCom. They have amazing selection, with some exclusive designs as well. The prices are great and so is the service. From prescription eyewear, to fashionable sunglasses, to a mix of both, this is s great place to get whatever eyewear you are looking for. With their holiday special, this would be a great time to collect some wonderful glasses for the entire year.

• You like computers and coding? Or do you want to get into computers and coding? And amazing gift for any youngling or even adults KANO. What's KANO? Kano is a DIY "computer kit designed to help people of all ages assemble a computer from scratch, and learn basic coding skills". They have something for people of all ages, and once you get into building these computer kits, there's no way you won't fall in love. Make sure you get a your hands on one this holiday season.

So this is our list of some unique holiday gift/shopping ideas. I have personally tried each of these products, and I'll say I'm in love. All of these are on my gift list, one quantities of more than one. You may want the same. Go, get them now!

We will bring you another list of stocking stuffers as well. Enjoy the holidays and have a wonderful time. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

Your Face Deserves High End this Holidays, TRY HourGlass!

Whatever you do, please don’t get turned off by the words “high end” — especially when it comes to your pretty face, ladies.

Something happened to me, recently inside a Sephora store. I met a woman with ebony-hued skin and a specular glow — so fantastic, that I thought, perhaps, she had stepped from the pages of a very modern fairytale.

The makeup on the woman’s face was HourGlass cosmetics, and she was a representative from the company.  After a few well placed phone calls to their public relations team, I received a gift package and began my journey to learn more about the products.  

To assist me in this task, I enlisted professional makeup career, Daurisa Tessier, a “sister” with over 10 years experience as a professional makeup artist. Her work is featured in many notable publications and global ad-campaigns, including Vogue, Berta Bridal, MAC, Chanel, Nars, Victoria Secret, and much more.

Here’s what make up artist Miss Daurisa Tessier had to share about using HourGlass.

MyNewYorkEye: How can a woman of color match her skin to get a natural look with HOURGLASS?

Daurisa Tessier : Hourglass foundation sticks are absolutely beautiful for women of color. With 26 beautiful shades, there is a color for every woman and ethnicity.  Not only is the Hourglass stick a foundation, but the coverage conceals under eyes and any imperfections of the skin, leaving you with a beautiful finish that feels like it was set with powder. When I tried the foundation for myself, I must say I was very impressed with the coverage and how long the makeup lasted throughout the day. The benefits are that it is something you can carry in your purse or travel with because it is only .25 OZ.  I used it with the Vanish seamless foundation brush, which made the foundation go on as if it was silk. I was never a fan of stick foundations but I must say I was impressed how the color I chose was perfect for my skin tone which was honey, and how effortlessly it was to put it on. Everyone wants skin that looks perfect, and Hourglass foundation sticks by far are the closest to getting a flawless application and beautiful skin.

MNYE: How important is a primer for women of color?

DT:  Primer for a woman of color is the canvas before the art. let me explain: Here are so many benefits to using a primer the first one is that is blurs out imperfections in the face and minimizes pores in the skin before putting on the foundation. The other amazing reason for using primer is it helps with oil and it makes your makeup stay fresh and last all day. I definitely recommend a primer to all women of color. We all know the saying “black don’t crack” but we all know it can get some creases (smiles). One of the primers I recommend is by Hourglass, and it is the Veil Primer. Some of the benefits are that it smooths out the skin, its oil-free, and it makes the makeup last all day long. It helps with making pores, wrinkles and lines in the face look very minimal, and it even has SPF 15 to protect from the sun and last but not least its vegan. So yes ladies, before we paint our face, lets prime it first.

MNYE: ourglass's Lip Color stays on long and keeps the lips moisturized. How does a woman add that extra sparkle for the holiday season?

DT:  Using Hourglass Femme rouge velvet creme lipstick is the way to go for the holidays. One of my favorite shades is Muse which is a beautiful coral color. The lipsticks are very creamy and are infused with vitamin E. To give it a more sparkly look for the holiday, I would add their Extreme Sheen High Shine lipgloss in the color reflect which will give the lips a nice glossy pout.

MNYE: How can you get a Sparkle Holiday look?

DT:  When I think of a Holiday look I think of highlighting and contouring the face and glitter. Combining all of these wonderful Hourglass products and adding a touch of glitter on the lips and eyes gives off a sparkle to the face that is absolutely beautiful.  Hourglass makes a beautiful highlighter and one of my favorites is the Ambience Strobe Lighting powder in Eurphoric. Brush this powder delicately on your forehead, down your nose, cheekbones, and browbone to give your skin a beautiful glow. A holiday looks also need lashes and of course a winged out eyeliner on the top lid in black.

www.daurisatessier.com

Top Notch Cinema Triumphs Using Video Technology

Owners of Top Notch Cinema, James Orfanos and Greg Parker

Bonobos has been offered a lucrative $310,000,000 deal from Walmart.
Dollar Shave Club was acquired for $1,000,000,000by Unilever.
Albertsons purchased Plated for $200,000,000.
What one single similarity do all three corporations share? Each one had a branding video that was designed and distributed by a New York corporate video production company, Top Notch Cinema. A short time after these videos were publicly shown, these start up organizations received their profitable solicitations.

In an ever-changing environment saturated with an abundance of information, it is essential to stand out in the crowd. Video production and distribution creates a unique niche for brands looking to capture the attention of all audiences, both small and substantial in size. A quality promotional and/or event video creates necessary brand awareness. It also helps the consumer feel personally connected to the brand, which creates brand loyalty and increases referral rates.

A quick Google search reveals that the top video production firms focus mostly on news and entertainment. It is evident that virtually everyone ignores videos for business. According to the owners of Top Notch Cinema, James Orfanos and Greg Parker, videos allow a brand to “personally connect with their audience, leading to a higher level of lead generation and higher conversions rates”. By adopting this focus, Top Notch Cinema has been able to secure top clients, including the famed luxury stay brand The Four Seasons, the digital wallet Venmo, andonline news source Elite Daily, among others. The work of Top Notch Cinema essentially guarantees a significant return of investment, which their clients have confirmed.

Top Notch Cinema focuses on enhancing the essence of every brand by creating a series of short and succinct videos. The content is both comprehensive and compelling, designed to engage all ages. Once completed, a strategic and schematic distribution is done through particular platforms and creative channels. All done within one day.

Take a second to schedule an in-depth consultation with Top Notch Cinema. For further information, visit their website at www.topnotchcinema.com.

Celebrate Diwali with Indian food, dance & cultural program, Nov 4th in Stony Brook, NY!

Diwali – the festival of Lights is one of the most avidly celebrated religious events in the Indian sub-continent. Celebrated by many religions and cultures, this festival depicts the driving off of evil and ushering in the good times of peace, joy and happiness by lighting lamps, dressing in colorful clothes, meeting friends and feasting.

To commemorate this festival, Diwali Stony Brook Cultural Program will be organized on November 4th at JFK Middle School, Port Jefferson Station, NY. The cultural program was initiated in 2008 as a way to bring the local Indian community together to celebrate the festival of Diwali. What started as a small gathering several years ago became a highly anticipated event and is currently one of the largest Indian cultural shows in Suffolk County. This program is focused on the younger generation, giving them a venue where they can showcase their talent. Children dance in colorful traditional costumes, encompassing Bollywood, Classical Kathak and Bharatnatyam and popular and energetic Bhangra performances.

Performed by Ayush Mojumdar, Anushka Roy, Arunima Roy and Aditi Tawde - Song Radha from movie 'Student of the Year'

Over 450 people attended the cultural program last year, and 130 children served up a multitude of performances, culminating in a sumptuous feast. Children of ages from 5 to 18 will participate in the show and many have been performing at this show year after year.

“Bringing the community together to showcase the talent of the children is the main purpose of this event along with celebrating the festival. This program reveals the vibrant nature of the Indian community and also gives an opportunity to the children as well as adults to remember their roots and exhibit their culture” states the organizer, Mr. Harbinder Singh.

The 10th annual Diwali Stony Brook Cultural Program will be held at JFK Middle School, Port Jefferson on Nov. 4, 2017 from 2:30 pm to 8:00 pm. This year, the performances of children will be complimented by a photo booth, henna tattoo artists, a pre-event Indian snacks and a post-event sumptuous vegetarian Indian dinner adding further enjoyment to the festivities. Tickets are $24 for adults (14 and older) and $21 for children (ages 4 to 13). To purchase tickets, visit www.diwalistonybrook.com.

Diwali Stony Brook 2013 Bhangra ! www.diwalistonybrook.com

Date of Event: Saturday November 4, 2017
Location: JFK Middle School, 631-306-4291 200 Jayne Blvd, Pt Jefferson St, NY
Time: 2:30 PM

CONTACT: Harbinder Singh
diwalistonybrook@hotmail.com
www.diwalistonybrook.com
facebook.com/diwalistonybrook

Carline Smothers creates Zoe Beautee and the Little Reader’s Collection, Multicultural children’s book series introduces children to the richness of the Haitian Culture

"Necessity is the mother of invention" is an old English- language proverb which means, roughly, that the primary driving force for the new invention is a need. That’s the energizing thought that drove Carline Smothers, the mother of three young Haitian American children ( a nine- year-old son and two daughters, ages seven and three) to create and self-publish her two books: “Fanmi Mwen (My Family)” written in Haitian Creole and English, and “Mmmmm! Soup Joumou,” a children’s book series that highlights their Haitian heritage.    

A businesswoman with a higher purpose, Carline stared Zoe Beauty in 2011, offering a line of t-shirts that sport the Creole phrase Bèl Fanm (Beautiful Woman) in order to celebrate the beauty of the Haitian language. “My goal is to help build confidence and self-love,” says Carline. All
products are available for purchase at www.zoebeautee.com

Here’s what Smothers, the children’s book author and owner of www.zoebeautee.com, had to share about the richness of her Haitian heritage and why she wrote “Fanmi Mwen (My Family)” (Haitian Creole and English) and “Mmmmm! Soup Joumou.” 

Q: What are African-Americans missing about the Haitian culture?  
Carline Smothers: There are so many negative stereotypes about Haitians. When I was younger, my family and I were constantly teased for being Haitian in school. As I would look at the American children who teased us, their skin, eyes, and hair looked like ours. I did not understand why we were treated so cruel. Some kids would even fight and throw things at the Haitian students. They told us we ate cats and dogs. That all Haitians are dark-black, ugly, and dirty.  I would get offended when I was told I did not look Haitian, which insinuated that Haitians are not beautiful people. Of course, everything stated above is completely false. We are beautiful people who come in all shades, as everyone else around the world. I had no idea where these kids
were getting their information from, or if that is what was being taught in their homes. 

My parents are immigrants from Haiti and instilled in my siblings and I values, empathy, respect, and compassion. They came to America to give us a better opportunity to grow and prosper. I do not see it being any different from others who move from state to state, for such growth. My
parents did not leave Haiti because they didn't like it there; in fact, they told us all the time how beautiful Haiti is, with amazing beaches and mountains. Haitian culture is reaching in food, language, music, art, and so much more. If we all took the time to learn about other cultures, this
world would be a better place! 

America recognizes May as Haitian Heritage Month. We are proud of who we are and our African roots. I have noticed others embracing Haitian culture through the language, food, and displaying the flag. For an example, the Haitian flag is seen waving in the opening of DJ Khaled and Rihanna’s  video. We have come a long way from how Haitians were viewed when I was growing up.

Q:
Why did you feel the need to start www.zoebeautee.com and self-publish two children books that focus on the Haitian culture?
CS:
I started my Zoe Beauty brand to celebrate the beauty of the Haitian culture and its people. By first creating Bèl Fanm (Beautiful Woman) Fashion Tees. I was inspired by my three young children to create the children's book series. My husband is African American and I did not want
them to lose the culture.  When we watch television shows, movies, and read books for children, we are open to learning other languages and cultures. However, I couldn't help but noticed the lack of Haitians and my children need to be able to relate to the characters. This is why I am passionate about what I have created. Every child deserves to be represented and see a reflection of themselves. I saw a need and have been working tirelessly to bring my vision to life. 

To learn more go to: "Expressing Beauty Through Language"

Founder and CEO Carline Smothers
Instagram zoe_beautee
Facebook Zoe Beautee
Twitter Zoe Beautee
www.zoebeautee.com

Google's Made With Code program has joined with Snap Inc to host a contest for teens to code a geofilter Deadline is October 6

 Do you love the young people in your life?  If you do, would you make effort to share information that could positively impact their future?

Suspecting that the answers to both of the questions are a resounding—yes—then please make note that until October October 8, teens can go to MadewithCode.com to code a geofilter and submit a 100-word statement about the future they envision.

This is a contest. Do not panic.  They don’t need any prior coding experience to give it a try. What they do need is a sense of adventure and a thirst for knowledge. Google's Made With Code program has joined with Snap Inc to host a contest for teens to code a geofilter (ie, a creative overlay that shows where you and what you're doing) that will go live nationally in the Snapchat app.

The contest, called #MyFutureMe, launched yesterday and five finalists will be sent to the TEDWomen conference in New Orleans in November to work with Google and Snap engineers to create lenses for the Snapchat app. They’ll also receive a trip to Los Angeles, CA, for a private, VIP tour of the Snapchat and Google offices.

The great news is that for the five finalists they will receive mentoring sessions from Google engineers and work with Snap engineers to create a lens (for the non-teens: this is augmented reality technology that adds animations to your selfies, general photos, and the world around us).

This is a very big deal and the panel of amazing people who will judge the lenses from the five finalists includes Ruth Porat (SVP and CFO of Google and Alphabet), Evan Spiegel (CEO of Snap), Malala Yousafzai (student, activist and Malala Fund Co-Founder), Joanna Coles (Chief Content Officer at Hearst), Laurie Hernandez (Olympic gymnast), Victoria Justice (actress and singer), Lilly Singh (YouTube personality, entertainer, and founder of Girl Love) and Dr. Yvonne Cagle (NASA astronaut).

How we share the things we see around us is part of what motivated the creation of this contest.  With this contest, Made with Code and Snap will help teens nationwide see that the things they love, like Snapchat, are made with code. Teens are already Snapping. Let’s get them coding, too.
Read more here: https://www.blog.google/topics/education/oh-snap-teens-are-coding-future/

Ballet Hispánico Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month w/ Dance - September 15 to October 15, Free performances, a Block Party, and more!

Ballet Hispánico will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, 2017 with free events, performances, exhibitions and dance lessons for children and adults. Events include a Salsa Extravaganza, an "A la Calle" Block Party, an Instituto Coreográfico dance showing and discussion, an intimate Tablao flamenco performance, and an exhibition of visual artwork at the Ballet Hispánico's headquarters, The Arnhold Center, at 167 W. 89thStreet.

"No other Latino organization can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month like Ballet Hispánico, because we will do it with dance!" said Eduardo Vilaro, Artistic Director and CEO of Ballet Hispánico. "We've been bringing individuals and communities together to celebrate and explore Latino cultures and the shared human experience through dance for more than 45 years. Our Hispanic Heritage Month events and activities will bring the celebration to the Upper West Side neighborhood, which has been our home from the very beginning of Ballet Hispánico."

• The celebration begins on Friday, September 15, 2017* with the PBS broadcast of Lincoln Center at the Movies presents Ballet Hispánico at 9 pm. The program opens with CARMEN.maquia, a modern take on Bizet's passionate opera featuring physically charged and sensual choreography by Spaniard Gustavo Ramírez Sansano. The second part of the program, Club Havana, is a virtuosic reimagining of a sizzling nightclub by Cuban-born choreographer Pedro Ruiz. Originally filmed as part of the Lincoln Center at the Movies: Great American Dance series, the PBS broadcast will draw the largest national audience in Ballet Hispánico's history. (* check local listings) 
  http://www.livefromlincolncenter.org/broadcasts/lincoln-center-at-the-movies-presents-ballet-hispanico
• On Saturday, September 23 from 5:30-7:30pm, Ballet Hispánico will host a Salsa Extravaganza, giving New Yorkers the opportunity to revel in the music and dances of Latino cultures.This free, two-hour event will offer lessons for all ages in three dance genres: salsa, merengue and bachata, followed by a celebratory dance for all, with refreshments.  Both experienced dancers and first-timers are welcome to join in this joyous celebration. Refreshments will be provided by Calle Ocho/Bodega 88. https://fs18.formsite.com/BalletHispanico/HHMfree/index.html
• "A la Calle" Block Party on Sunday, October 1 from 2-6 pm,  a four-hour celebration of Latino dance, music, art, food and community, will take place on West 89th Street (between Amsterdam and Columbus Avenues),  Ballet Hispánico's home for more than 45 years. The event will include dance performances by our internationally renowned Company, School of Dance students, and BHdos as well as a musical performance by Los Hacheros, free half-hour dance classes for adults and children, and a variety of activities for children and families. A special free raffle will include items donated by 89th Street NY Kids Club and Preschool, Blu Dot, Book Culture, Children's Museum of Manhattan, Flywheel Sports, Macaron Parlour, Modell's Sporting Goods, Rachel Realty, SoulCycle, and The Vitamin Shoppe. https://fs18.formsite.com/BalletHispanico/HHMfree/index.html
• This year's Instituto Coreográfico on October 5 at 7 pm will feature the work of acclaimed Spanish choreographer Carlos Pons Guerra. Moderated by Ballet Hispánico Artistic Director & CEO Eduardo Vilaro, the program will include a showing by Guerra, as well as a lively discussion with the choreographer and the dancers. https://fs18.formsite.com/BalletHispanico/HHMfree/index.html
• On Saturday, October 14 from 8-10 pm, Ballet Hispánico will offer the inaugural performance of the Ballet Hispánico Tablao series. Headlined by internationally celebrated dancer Nelida Tirado, thistwo-hour intimate performance will bring the Flamenco nightclub scene to the intimate Penthouse Studio of Ballet Hispánico. Tickets are $20 and there will be refreshments. https://fs18.formsite.com/BalletHispanico/Tablao/index.html
• Throughout the month, Ballet Hispánico will curate an on-going exhibition of visual artwork from celebrated and emerging artists on the first floor of the West 89th Street carriage houses, transforming our home into a beautiful, emotionally moving gallery. 

ABOUT BALLET HISPÁNICO

Ballet Hispánico, the premier Latino dance organization in the United States, brings individuals and communities together to celebrate and explore Latino cultures through dance. Whether dancing on stage, in school, or in the street, Ballet Hispánico creates a space where few institutions are breaking ground. The organization's founder, National Medal of Arts recipient Tina Ramirez, sought to give voice to the Hispanic experience and break through stereotypes. Today Ballet Hispánico is led by Eduardo Vilaro, an acclaimed choreographer and former member of the Company, whose vision of social equity, cultural identity and quality arts education for all, drives its programs. Ballet Hispánico, a role model in and for the Latino community, is inspiring creativity and social awareness in our neighborhoods and across the country by providing access to arts education.

EDUARDO VILARO joined Ballet Hispánico as Artistic Director in August 2009, becoming only the second person to head the company since it was founded in 1970. In 2015, Mr. Vilaro took on the additional role of Chief Executive Officer of Ballet Hispánico. He has been part of the Ballet Hispánicofamily since 1985 as a dancer and educator, after which he began a ten-year record of achievement as founder and Artistic Director of Luna Negra Dance Theater in Chicago. Mr. Vilaro has infused Ballet Hispánico's legacy with a bold and eclectic brand of contemporary dance that reflects America's changing cultural landscape. Born in Cuba and raised in New York from the age of six, he is a frequent speaker on the merits of cultural diversity and dance education.

Mr.Vilaro's own choreography is devoted to capturing the spiritual, sensual and historical essence of the Latino cultures. He created over 20 ballets for Luna Negra and has received commissions from the Ravinia Festival, the Chicago Sinfonietta, the Grant Park Festival, the Lexington Ballet and the Chicago Symphony. In 2001, he was a recipient of a Ruth Page Award for choreography, and in 2003, he was honored for his choreographic work at Panama's II International Festival of Ballet. In 2016, he was inducted into the Bronx Walk of Fame.

Michaelangelo's Sistine Chapel, Up & Close in New York (June 23 - July 23). #SistineUpClose

You love Michelangelo's work? You've heard of all his beautiful and amazing art work on chapel's ceiling at Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, Rome? You have been wanting to go see it, but haven't had time, or money, or both. Well, you can see that artwork, right here in New York City, that to, up & close, from now until July 23.

The Oculus Mall (Westfield Mall?) at World Trade Center is holding this wonderful exhibition. It does cost $20, which seems a LOT, specially considering its all in open and you can see it just from outside (check out the pics) fro FREE. But if you wanna get closer, you can buy the tickets and go in. Checkout the schedule with more details and buy the tickets here:
https://www.westfield.com/upclose
https://www.westfield.com/westfieldworldtradecenter/events/all-events/up-close-michelangelos-sistine-chapel/41369
https://wl.seetickets.us/Westfield

The exhibition will move to various places all over country. Checkout the dates and details below.
https://www.westfield.com/upclose/tickets

Ten Toes Rejoicing with @timeslippers

My ten toes are celebrating because I cared enough to slide them into time slippers. It might read to good to be true but I suggest that you trust my ten “little piggies” and make your tired feet smile.

TI:ME® Leather Slippers look like hip sneakers, solid doppelgängers but they are a new line of footwear—which began as a Kickstarter project—are actually high-end slippers that are perfectly designed to look like sneakers. Now they are ready for purchase in three styles: lows, mids, and high-tops and to the uneducated, naked eye I look like any other urban, fashionable sneaker-head sporting the latest style but in truth, I am striding in maximum comfort.

The designers created high-performance leather slippers with low-top construction which allows for unrestricted movement. Their top-quality leather upper is ultra-soft and conforms to foot over time with the insoles made out of the same material that’s used on yoga mats. Natural wool lining wicks away moisture, keeping foot warm and dry and does not cause sweaty feet. The flexible construction also features a collapsible heel which provides for a much more agile fit. Sumo-stretch,10mm, laces reduce tension and secure lockdown. They have a lightweight, flexible outsole which is designed for indoor and outdoor use. The Leather however may become discolored or change shape if exposed to snow or rain

The chic TI:ME® Leather Slippers are prices around $100 but since they double as sneakers and slippers it’s a solid bargain both for your wallet and most importantly, for your hard working feet.

Four Star Rating!

Top 5 places to enjoy Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas & Happy New Year, in NYC!

New York City is awesome the year around, but Holidays are even more special here in the city. There's just so much to see and do in the city. Here are the top 5 must see spots this holiday season:

Christmas & Holidays in NYC, at Macy's 34th street Herald Sq.

Macy's 34th Street Herald Square: One of the largest departmental store, that's right here in Manhattan, is also known for some wonderful holiday celebrations etc. And it's not just Thanksgiving and Macy's Thanksgiving parade. This Macy's happens to have beautiful Christmas and holiday themed "display windows" around Holidays. It's definitely a must see!

Christmas & Holidays in NYC, at Bryant Park - Winter Village. Free skiing, shopping & food to enjoy the holidays & winter in NYC

Bryant Park - Winter Village: Walk few blocks north on 6th Avenue and you arrive to Bryant Park. During winter they have "Winter Village", there, which is basically this winter market with tons boutique shops and wonderful food etc etc. And they have a beautiful Christmas Tree as well. However the best thing is the free ice skating rink (provided you have your own skates, else you can rent skates for cheap). Skiing under the stars, in middle of the city, surrounded by iconic NYC buildings. It's wonderful. And again, it's FREE!

Enjoy holidays, winter & New Year's at Times Square, NYC

Time Square, NYC: Walk a block west, and you're at center of the world aka Times Square. Is it special for Christmas or Holidays or even winter? Not really. But IT's special all year round. It's freakin' TIMES SQUARE!

Rockefeller Center: Well, if your'e talking Christmas and Holidays, you can't miss this spot. This is where the famous Christmas Tree of NYC is planted. And there also skiing!

Central Park: Walk few blocks north and you arrive at Central Park. Central park is evergreen place to visit, like Times Square. But it is special in winter with another ice FREE skating rink under the stars, in middle of the city, in the beautiful & magnificent Central Park, NYC.