Posts made in May 2021

Bolstering Brands and Products Through Innovative Live Productions

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These days, even products that have remained largely the same at their core for decades need to explore the ways in which new technology can assist them in connecting to customers. Right now, the tech proving to be a game-changer for brands and products across several industries is live streaming.

Having been widely adopted by the general public through the likes of Facebook Live, Instagram Live, and Twitch, companies now feel comfortable using it as a means to showcase or advance their offering. For the uninitiated, a live stream isn’t much more than a video stream, but when applied correctly, the fact that it’s live makes all of the difference.

From a new way to experience online products to luxury brands offering an innovative way to captivate potential customers, live-streamed productions look to be the way forward.

Making the experience even better

Perhaps the most profound way in which live streaming is being applied is to products that rely a great deal on the experience. When online, people can find just about anything that they want, but for an online-based product to become better, it can build into a live stream, offering real-time engagement with the brand and the product. The best way that this works is when a live stream is a two-way event, with those watching being able to influence or engage with those hosting the stream.

The furthest that live streaming has developed in this sense is in the advancement of online games, specifically online game show and table games. Take live roulette, for example; it’s played in rounds with the players wanting to bet on numbers for each spin. So, the game streams the real table and croupier to the player, with OCR technology set up to read the table while the player bets through the UI on their phone or computer. Suddenly, roulette isn’t a video-simulated online game, it’s real, live, and offers that same bricks ‘n mortar casino experience at the convenience of the users.

The same can be seen in the way that music is evolving its online presence. For decades, aspiring artists have posted their covers on video platforms like YouTube, but now there’s a surge of people staging live shows rather than just offering on-demand content. Data analysis of a popular live music platform has found that not only are viewers overwhelmingly positive about the live-streamed experience, but they’re also very likely to buy into products as a direct result of the live experience.

Building into live commerce

The idea of truly organized and direct live commerce isn’t a concept that’s overly well adopted in western markets. Sure, so-called influencers have been paid to sling promoted items over videos on social media, but in China, the likes of Taobao Live and Baidu have crafted full channels dedicated to shoppable live streams. They work similarly to the influencers, but the streams from the likes of fashion site MOGU are specifically designed to showcase products, help customers, answer questions, and more: offering shopping and entertainment all in one.

Luxury fashion brands are starting to explore the potential of live streams, too. There’s Rihanna’s Fenty Social Club on Instagram, which offered a form of escapism while also raising brand awareness, and even informal meets from Marc Jacobs to connect to consumers. As it stands, live streaming fashion shows is the primary use of the technology at the luxury end, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see some fast fashion outlets explore the live streaming techniques that have been so successful in China.

There’s so much that companies can do with live streaming, from offering interactive options to live chat windows, that just about any brand can benefit from exploring the technology.

Lamborghini Debuts Private, VIP Lounge In NYC

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Inviting in guests to the luxurious world of Lamborghini, the company is proudly announcing the debut premier of their new, VIP lounge in New York City. This ultra-luxe private space is located on Manhattan’s west side, conveniently positioned beneath The High Line elevated walking path. The 5,400 square-foot lounge also functions as Automobili Lamborghini’s NYC flagship.

Reminiscent of Lamborghini’s facilities in Sant’Agata Bolognese, the new NYC lounge keeps with Lamborghini’s prestigious brand ethos and DNA. Inside, guests can view never-before-seen vehicles, enjoy authentic Italian culinary experiences, and observe bespoke exhibitions. Enveloped by Lamborghini–from sneakers, to Supreme skateboards, and even the wallpaper– guests are surrounded by high class, elevated elegance in the lounge. The company’s new private space invites in guests to the breathtaking world of all that Lamborghini has to offer.

President and Chief Executive Officer of Automobili Lamborghini, Stephan Winkelmann, remarked on Lamborghini’s exciting new NYC Lounge venture: “We are opening the doors to a private space our customers and friends can call their own with exclusive access… Following the success of our Lamborghini Lounge venues across the globe, this new flagship in Manhattan will create a vibrant and personal connection to share the Lamborghini lifestyle, a true reflection of our fine Italian heritage. I look forward to visiting our Lamborghini customers and friends in New York soon.”

The new Lamborghini flagship location exudes excellence and innovation. Keeping with the company’s Italian history and luxurious lifestyle, the two-story gallery venue features several private spaces for guests to quietly enjoy their time. Exclusive concierges are provided to best enjoy the space. Additionally, there is an As Personam design studio that lets customers configure their own, customized Lamborghini vehicle. The design studio has infinite color palette and materials selections, so customers can personalize their vehicles to their exact specification and liking. The New York Lamborghini Lounge also features a driving simulation so guests can experience what it’s like to truly ride in style.

Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of Automobili Lamborghini, Federico Foschini, commented on the remarkable NYC Lamborghini Lounge: “This unique space will serve as Lamborghini’s outpost in one of the world’s greatest cities…The Ad Personam studio provides an extension and personal touchpoint, which could previously only be found at our home in Sant’Agata, and we look forward to offering this and access to never-before-seen limited-edition models to VIP visitors of the Lounge NYC.”

Venturing further into the lounge, meeting spaces and a full-service kitchen are provided by luxury kitchen manufacturer, La Dolce Vita. Both designed and constructed in Italy, La Dolce Vita’s custom-made contemporary interiors promise the highest quality in home space living. Granite backsplash and countertops, emblazoned with the Lamborghini logo, furnish the kitchen with a modern, chic flair. Both of these spaces can be utilized for private gatherings, and feature a dedicated, private Italian chef at guests’ disposal. After a long flight, the last thing travelers want is airline food. Lamborghini clients, friends, and partners can skip the complimentary airline meal and instead indulge in the fine cuisine of their private chef.

The Lamborghini NYC Lounge is perfect for travelers looking to get some R&R during a layover, or to feel refreshed after a long day on the move. With soothing amenities like a shower, guests can come to the lounge to look and feel their best again. Lamborghini also offers refreshments and spirits for those needing a little pick-me-up. Crisp white walls border the lounge’s stylish, geometric art décor and lush house plants. Surrounded by the utmost quality of craftsmanship and design, guests can effortlessly unwind with the reassurance that they are fully being taken care of. Sleek black furnishings in the lounge provide an aesthetically-pleasing contrast to the walls and allow for a spotlight to be shown on the vibrant, true star of the show– the Huracán STO.

The premiere of the Huracán Super Trofeo Omologata (STO), a road-homologated super sports car, is taking place in the Lamborghini NYC Lounge. This limited-series, super sports car was crafted expertly, keeping in mind the company’s racing heritage of Lamborghini Squadra Corse’s one-make Huracán Super Trofeo EVO race series, as well as its three-time 24 Hours of Daytona-winning and three-time 12 Hours of Sebring-winning Huracán GT3 EVO. Impressively, the Huracán STO model features a V10 naturally aspirated 640 HP engine. With this, the rear-wheel drive of the luxury vehicle offers the emotional appeal of track driving experience on every road drive.

Other brand partners will be activated and featured throughout the Lamborghini NYC lounge in the coming month. These exhibitions will be exclusive to guests of the lounge.

The newest timepiece from Roger Dubuis–the Excalibur Huracán STO– will also be premiering in NYC at Lamborghini’s new lounge. The innovative watch will be exhibited by levitation in the watchmaker’s Gravity Window. The watch is extremely limited edition, with only 88 units produced. Channeling the same exhilarating feelings as its automobile namesake, the 45mm Excalibur Huracan STO is powered by innovative technology, developed in close partnership with the Lamborghini Squadra Corse.

Bang & Olfsen’s premium Advanced 3D Sound System turns up the decibels of Lamborghini’s NYC space. The 3D Sound System, acclaimed inside the Lamborghini Super SUV Urus, is now bringing life and an array of premium audio systems to the Lamborghini lounge. The state-of-the-art sound experience is ideal for hosting both private events and gatherings.

Guests come to the lounge to sit down, relax, and revitalize– and what better place to do so than in Trademark Italian furnishings from Living Divani. Living Divani and Lamborghini are both members of Altagamma–the foundation that gathers Italian companies with international recognition and operating at the highest segment of the market as it pertains to innovation, quality, service. The NYC lounge mixes Lamborghini’s design ethos and super sports cars with Living Divani’s modular Extrasoft sofa and other latest novelties. This combination of Lamborghini and Living Divani in one space makes for a sophisticated and inspirational space imbued with a true Made in Italy experience. As of Spring 2021, the exclusive Lamborghini Lounge NYC is open by invitation only to clients and Lamborghini friends and partners.

Location: Chelsea, Manhattan

Hours: By appointment only

Caliwater Escape

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Vanessa Hudgens and Oliver Trevena host a Caliwater Escape in Joshua Tree At The Mojave Moon Ranch. The event was presented by Outdoorsy to launch their new cactus water beverage. The event was filled with VIPs and wellness activities.

By: Joanne Dunn

The Caliwater Escape was hosted by brand co-founders, Vanessa Hudgens and Oliver Trevena. The event was held in Joshua Tree at the Mojave Moon Ranch (a gorgeous estate designed by Morgan Brown) to celebrate the official launch of their new cactus water beverage, Caliwater.

Guests at the weekend-long desert retreat experienced life under the stars while staying in airstreams, campers, and RVs from Outdoorsy.

Timeless Vapes were also on hand in a customized RV, offering their clean and effective cannabis medicine vapes to the VIP attendees.

Talented attendees at the exclusive #CaliwaterEscape included actor Ross Butler (Caliwater Investor/Ambassador) along with his fellow “13 Reasons Why” co-stars Alisha Boe, Justin Prentice, Anne Winters, Brandon Flynn, and Brandon Larracuente. Ashlee Simpson Ross and Evan Ross also attended the desert getaway along with Bazzi, Kyra Santoro, Bria Vinaite (“The Florida Project”), Carmela Zumbado (“You”), Dean Geyer and Jillian Murray, Derek Hough and fiance Hayley Erbert (DWTS), Serinda Swan (HBO “Ballers”), Natalie Alyn Lind (Big Sky/ABC), Zelda Williams, Kat McNamera, Emeraude Toubia, Jazmin Garcia, Alexander Deleon, Hudson Thames, Haley Reinhart, Luke Baines, Bar Malik, Emma Zander, Giden Adlon, Kristina Kane, Ajay Nwoso, Courtney Deitz, Maximilian Acevedo, Amelia Zerbe, Aaron Dominguez, stylist Natalie Saidi, Loreen Hwang, David Brackett, as well as Vanessa’s sister Stella Hudgens, and her mother in attendance to support along with many more VIPs, influencers, and industry notables.

The festive weekend in the desert included DJ sets by Ruckus, Zen Freeman and GG Magree, presented by Resorts World Las Vegas. An incredible performance by Barns Courtney closed out the festivities. Guests danced the night away under the stars and hung poolside all day long. They enjoying delicious cocktails at the Resorts World bar such as the ‘JAJA Caliwater Escape’ from JAJA Tequila, ‘Socali Mojave Mojito’ by SoCal Rum, Calamity Gin and Nue Vodka, and ‘Cali Style’ Desert Mule by Dos Hombres Mezcal. Refreshing white, rose and sparkling rose wines were offered by Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards. The weekend kicked off with a beautiful poolside picnic by The Gypsy Picnic, along with superfood bowls by VitaBowl.

Poolside, attendees changed into eco-friendly fashion-forward footwear styles from Cool Planet. Cool Planet is the new sustainable line by Steve Madden that was made with the earth in mind, and is perfect for the desert vibe.

Caliwater is also officially partnered with No Kid Hungry in their fight to end childhood hunger. Caliwater has pledged to donate $1million by April 2022. Every can sold makes a difference.

The weekend also featured a bevy of wellness and beauty activations such as massages by Artha, featuring transformative skin products and lotions from MIAGE Skincare, group yoga and Cryotherapy Facials also provided by Artha (wellness sanctuary), tarot reading/reiki, sound baths by Mystic Starseed, and more.

Each morning kicked off with coffee by Dragonfly Coffee Roasters, Mean Green juice by VitaJuice, Essentia. There was also a a breakfast burrito bar by Chef Shane Fatemian of Soho House, who catered the entire weekend with delicious food spreads for lunch and dinner. Friday night’s dinner included Shamen Raman’s organic ramen. Craig’s Vegan ice cream cart was also on hand to keep guests refreshed. At the end of the night, Stuffed Puffs provided late-night marshmallow roasting.

The RVS and airstreams by Outdoorsy for weekend guests were fully stocked with Caliwater, snacks by Candy Pop, Take Out Puffs, Vegan Pig Out Pork Rinds, Good Fish, DragonFly Coffee, Volition Beauty SPF, MOBOT, Lasso custom Caliwater socks, MIAGE skincare, Resorts World bar sets, Outdoorsy lanterns, and Plein bath products.

Caliwater is defined by a drive to create innovative, fresh, functional beverages that connect us to the Earth and to one another. Inspired by the lush and varied landscapes of California, Founders Oliver Trevena (Actor/Host/Entrepreneur) and native Californian Vanessa Hudgens (Actress/Music Artist/Influencer and now Entrepreneur) looked to their own desert regions to locally source prickly pear cactus fruit. Their vision is for consumers to sip on Cali in a can. Prickly Pear Cactus Fruit, known for its rare and potent healthful properties, is brought to life in their first, brand new, canned beverage product. Caliwater is not only delicious and organic, but super hydrating, refreshing, and filled with rare antioxidants and digestion benefits. Additionally, from every can sold five cents will be donated up to one million dollars to nonprofit No Kid Hungry.

Caliwater is a functional beverage. The functional benefits of cactus water include being high in antioxidants (which is great for the skin), reduction of cholesterol levels, natural elimination of hangovers, regulation of blood sugar levels, and possession of antiviral properties. Only 25 calories per can, Caliwater is organic, vegan, Kosher, and non-GMO.

The Benefits: Prickly pear is full of antioxidants, which research shows provide a myriad of health and wellness benefits. Early studies have shown evidence of a decrease in cholesterol, specifically LDL (bad) cholesterol. The study showed overall levels dropping significantly. Some research also indicates that prickly pear may provide a complementary solution to regulating blood sugar levels by decreasing regular blood sugar. Prickly pear cactus has natural antiviral properties. Research has found that it has antiviral activity against viral and respiratory diseases, as well as protects nerve cells.

Proven hangover release
Refreshing and delicious
Naturally occurring electrolytes to support hydration
Locally + fairly wild-harvested
Anti-inflammatory properties
Skin revitalizing antioxidants
Half the calories and sugars of coconut water
Decreases “bad” cholesterol
Regulator of blood sugar levels

Head over to their website to order Caliwater for delivery and join their Cali Club for subscription deliveries!!

*The VIP weekend followed all Covid-19 guidelines with pre-testing of guests and on-site protocols.

Caliwater image via Alexandra Lasky (President + Founder of The influence), all images coutesy of Caliwater. For use by 360 Magazine

Summer Tips for Melanoma Prevention

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Protect yourself from melanoma without becoming deficient in vitamin D

By Leah Johnston, RDN

Don’t be so quick to overlook concerns around melanoma just because it’s often viewed as preventable. Melanoma is one of the most common cancers and the deadliest form of skin cancer. However, there is a conflict between how we prevent melanoma and how we ensure we are getting enough vitamin D. Sun exposure is the main source of this essential vitamin, but it’s also the primary culprit in the formation of melanoma. With May being Melanoma Awareness Month, it’s time to take notice and learn how we can protect our skin while still absorbing enough vitamin D.

The Stats

Cases of melanoma have been rising over the last few decades, especially among young adults, as it’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer among people aged 25 to 29. According to the Melanoma Research Alliance, one person dies from melanoma every hour of every day. The American Cancer Society reports that the risk for getting melanoma is approximately 2.6% (1 in 38) for whites, 0.1% (1 in 1,000) for Blacks, and 0.6% (1 in 167) for Hispanics. While fair skin poses a higher risk, darker complexions are also at risk.

How Melanoma forms

Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin and give skin its brown or tan color. It’s when melanocytes start to grow out of control on the skin’s top layer that cancer can develop and then spread to other parts of the body. Usually appearing as a brown or black spot or mole, melanoma is most commonly found on the chest and back for men and legs for women. It’s best not to ignore any irregular spots you may find on your skin because this cancer can also appear in other colors or patterns. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds can damage DNA in cells and significantly increase the risk of melanoma. Early detection is important for effective treatment.

Tips for melanoma prevention:

Use a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen all year when outdoors. This will help protect against sun damage, which can occur even when the sun might be hiding behind a cloud.
Limit sun exposure during the middle of the day when the UV rays are at their peak. Instead, plan outdoor time for the morning or later afternoon to lessen the risk.
Opt for a spray tan over laying out by the pool. If you love to have a tan, spray tans are a safer option and will help protect the longevity of your skin.
Schedule annual skin exams with a dermatologist. This is especially important if you have fair skin or immediate family members who have had melanoma, such as a parent or sibling.

The importance of Vitamin D

What doesn’t vitamin D do? Known as the sunshine vitamin, the human body absorbs an inactive form of vitamin D from the sun, food, or supplements and converts it into an active form of vitamin that it can use. In its active form, vitamin D plays many roles in the body.

Bone Health: Vitamin D and calcium work together to maintain bone health and density. Calcium cannot be absorbed into bones without the help of vitamin D. A vitamin D deficiency can result in bone softening, known as osteomalacia, and muscle weakness. Osteoporosis can also be associated with vitamin D deficiency due to the lack of calcium absorption. Both osteoporosis and melanoma affect older adults making it essential to couple melanoma prevention strategies with vitamin D supplementation.

Immunity: Recently, researchers have been investigating a possible link between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of COVID-19 symptoms. While this research is still in its infancy, scientists have been finding that low vitamin D status may result in the increased severity of symptoms and higher mortality rate. More research is needed in this area.

Inflammation: Research has shown an association between vitamin D status and inflammation-related autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, and type 1 diabetes. Vitamin D also helps to regulate insulin levels for diabetes management.

Depression: People with depression are more likely to have low vitamin D levels. A 2011 study found that women who ate more foods rich in vitamin D had a lower risk of depression than women who got less vitamin D in their diets. Vitamin D has also demonstrated the ability to improve the symptoms of depression.

The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for vitamin D is 15 mcg (600 IU) for most children and adults up to the age of 70, according to the National Institutes of Health. Adults who over 70 need 20 mcg (800 IU) daily.

Tips for getting enough Vitamin D:

Get outside but be strategic. As previously discussed, the best time to be in the sun is in the morning or later afternoon. Plan your days to limit your exposure to the midday sun.
Add at least one vitamin D rich food into your daily diet. These may include fortified dairy and non-dairy beverages such as milk or orange juice, fortified cereals, salmon (wild caught contains more than farmed), sardines, and egg yolks. Wild mushrooms or those that have been treated with UV light are a good plant source of the vitamin.
Take a daily Vitamin D supplement. This may be particularly important if you live in regions of the world that are further from the equator, such as the Midwest. If you struggle to remember or don’t enjoy taking pills, NB Pure has a Vitamin D3 supplement in the form of a spray for the utmost convenience.
Have your doctor check your vitamin D levels at least once a year. Getting an annual physical is important for your long-term health. Ask your doctor to make sure they check your vitamin D levels at that visit.

The sun may be the main reason for the increasing rates of melanoma, but it’s also our number one source of vitamin D. It is possible to protect yourself from developing melanoma and ensure that you are obtaining ample amounts of vitamin D to prevent the consequences of a deficiency.

Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim Reopening

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Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim will open for the 2021 season on May 15. Offering extraordinary views from its position just above the canyon, the lodge is currently fully booked through Aug. 1. The lodge will begin accepting reservations at its Western, Pioneer and Frontier cabins for Aug. 1 through Aug. 31 on March 6; reservations for Sept. 1 through Oct. 15 will be available starting April 9.

Sitting at an elevation of more than 8,000 feet, the tranquil North Rim receives just one-tenth of the visitation of the South Rim and is known for its recreational activities including hiking trails, mule rides and exploring the local flora and fauna.

The gift shop and dining room will also open for the 2021 season with limited seating on May 15. For breakfast, the lodge will offer a served breakfast buffet featuring a gourmet egg station from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Reservations will be required for dinner service open daily from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. In addition, the deli will be open daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. for grab-and-go items for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Grab-and-go breakfast options will include baked goods, breakfast burritos and barista-brewed coffees; lunch and dinner options will include salads, pizzas and sandwiches.

Reservations for the 2021 summer season are strongly recommended. Online reservations can be found HERE.

About Grand Canyon Lodge – North Rim

Grand Canyon Lodge – North Rim is the only lodging inside the National Park on the North Rim. Located at Bright Angel Point, the Lodge was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987. The original Lodge was constructed in 1928 and burned in 1932. The current Lodge was rebuilt in 1937 using as much of the original structure as possible. Here guests may enjoy the quiet serenity of the North Rim while enjoying comfortable guest rooms and cabins. Our cabins were constructed in the 1930’s and 1940’s. While restrooms and showers have since been added, these cabins retain their original rustic charm. To this day, not one of the cabins has a television or radio. The Lodge Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. It features regional cuisine; all-natural beef and poultry products are antibiotic and hormone free and the wine list showcases American organic selections available by the glass. Meanwhile the Gift Shop purveys Grand Canyon souvenirs, clothing and accessories. Free self-parking, bus, truck and RV parking are available. For more information about the lodge, click HERE.

About Forever Resorts

Forever Resorts is an exceptional collection of destinations providing hospitality services throughout the world. The company focuses on properties with access to nature and one-of-a-kind surroundings for vacations. For more information, click HERE.

Emanuel’s New Single “Worldwide”

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JUNO-NOMINATED R&B ARTIST EMANUEL SHARES NEW SINGLE “WORLDWIDE” ALONGSIDE VISUALIZER TODAY, Debut Album ALT THERAPY To Be Released June 16

Listen to “Worldwide” here and watch the lyric video here!

Today Canadian R&B phenom Emanuel has released his new single “Worldwide” via Motown Records and Universal Music Canada. Described by Emanuel as a manifestation mantra, “Worldwide” captures a time when dreams were still dreams – before his music was streamed millions of times around the globe and his talent was admired by fans and critics alike. Listen to “Worldwide” here and watch the lyric video here.

Created in his producer/collaborator Bedroom’s basement, Emanuel recalls that the lyrics “floated up to the surface” as “Worldwide” spontaneously took shape: “During that time, we were really dreaming out loud in the way that we would talk about our futures and in the way that we were trying to summon this grand reality. This song was really born from the deep want to take the music to the world.” Years later, “Worldwide” has morphed from a manifestation mantra into a song of celebration and a prayer for the future.

“This past year has been a great learning experience for what it means to really manifest something and be appreciative of the things you’ve been able to uncover and draw from within yourself and make reality,” says Emanuel. “But even though we’ve manifested certain aspects of the song – and that’s a beautiful thing – it still wants to be seen out in its fullness. ‘Worldwide’ is a song of affirmation and it’s become a prayer to be able to continue until all of those goals are met in their completion.”

The dream to connect with people in the cities and countries he sings about is still very real for Emanuel since the pandemic has prevented him from bringing his music to stages around the world. “It’s wild to me how prophetic music can be. I’m still imagining going to those places, smelling the air, performing in front of crowds, and being able to truly live out what the song is talking about: to be able to take the message, the energy we bring, the light we’ve been blessed with; to be able to share that while also being open to receiving wisdom and exporting that back so we can enrich the places we’re in. That beautiful exchange, that’s the heart of it.”

Mixed by Gary Noble (Amy Winehouse, Nas, Public Enemy), “Worldwide” is the final glimpse into Alt Therapy, Emanuel’s inaugural full-length project, before the album makes its eagerly anticipated debut on June 16.

Earlier this Spring, Emanuel was honored with his first Juno Award nomination. His critically acclaimed debut EP Session 1: Disillusion has been nominated for Traditional R&B/Soul Recording of the Year which will be awarded at the 50th Annual JUNO Awards this June.

About Emanuel

With over 21 million global streams, the first-generation Canadian has had a breakout year establishing his artistry through meaningful, expressive music in a time he describes as a “renaissance of beautiful black art in the world.” Since releasing his debut single “Need You” one year ago, Emanuel has achieved international acclaim for his undeniable talent and introspective, emotionally charged music. Released at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, “Need You” quickly became an early quarantine anthem as people from over 20 countries submitted personal videos and photos for the collaborative music video curated by Golden Globe-winning actor, musician, producer and Executive Producer of Emanuel’s debut album Idris Elba OBE. Before even releasing his debut EP Session 1: Disillusion (shared with the world on Juneteenth), Emanuel was named Apple Music’s New Artist of the Week, one of Amazon Music’s Artists to Watch, a Soundcloud Featured Artist, and a Spotify “On The Radar” Artist. Following the release of the EP, Emanuel became the first ever artist to be chosen for Spotify’s On The Radar program in Canada and was also named the Beats Artist of the Week. In October of 2020, Emanuel released “Black Woman”, the first single from his sophomore EP, alongside a digital portrait series that honoured Black female leaders in Toronto’s artistic and advocacy communities. The portraits towered over Toronto’s Yonge & Dundas Square for the first week of release on a bespoke Spotify billboard, the first ever of its kind. Alongside the December release of his Session 2: Transformation EP, Emanuel announced that legendary Motown Records would be his U.S. label partner. After making several end of year lists (including Earmilk’s Best Songs of 2020, Complex’s 25 Canadian Artists to Watch Out For in 2021 and Rolling Stone India’s Top 100 Songs of 2020), Emanuel’s momentum has only continued into 2021. With the achievement of his first Juno Award nomination for Traditional R&B/Soul Recording of the Year and the upcoming release of his debut full length album Alt Therapy, Emanuel is positioned to have another massive year of artistic growth and accomplishment.

USDA Awards Expansion Grants

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USDA Awards $15 Million in Grants to Expand Wood Products, Wood Energy Markets and Community Forests

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today awarded more than $15 million to fund grant proposals to develop and expand the use of wood products, strengthen emerging wood energy markets and protect community forests. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the announcement in Colorado today while visiting prescribed fire and wildfire recovery areas adjacent to the Roosevelt National Forest Northern Colorado Front Range landscape.

The grant funding, delivered through USDA Forest Service programs, will support 60 projects that cover a diverse range of activities from the development of affordable housing to expanding markets for mass timber, biochar, wood energy and other emerging wood products. The grants also include funds to help tribes, local governments and qualified non-profit organizations permanently conserve working forests that benefit communities.

Forest Service awards will leverage an additional $30 million in matching and partner funds bringing the totals well above $45 million.

“To manage wildfire and address climate, we need to manage our forests. Today’s investments underpin USDA’s commitment to address the climate crisis with a market-based approach that begins to move us toward a clean energy economy, led by production of renewable fuel and energy and biobased products grown and manufactured here in the U.S.,” said Vilsack. “The American Jobs Plan and USDA’s budget request for 2022 make sure the Forest Service can prioritize forest management and restoration.”

“We are placing emphasis on assisting wood energy facilities in economically challenged areas to retool or add advanced technology to replace systems that are inefficient or fueled by fossil fuels.” said Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen. “The grants will also expand markets for cross-laminated timber in commercial and multi-family housing, which supports the important connection to healthy forests and manufacturing in rural communities.”

Wood Innovations Grants

Forest Service Wood Innovations Grant program awards for fiscal year 2021 include $8.9 million for 44 projects across 23 states and Puerto Rico. Twenty-one of the projects focus on mass timber and cross-laminated timber. These projects will support critical needs for expanding markets and species options (hemlock, ponderosa pine, white fir), improve structural performance, increase education and outreach, and promote design and construction of highly visible buildings.

Seven of the projects will focus on developing affordable housing using mass timber as a major building component to support equity, economic opportunity, and climate change priorities. Additional projects focus on developing markets for emerging wood products like biochar and cellulose nanomaterials, and support installation of new wood energy systems. A complete list of Wood Innovations Grant recipients is available now on the Forest Service website.

Community Wood Grants

Forest Service Community Wood Grant program awards for fiscal year 2021 include $2.1 million to support six shovel-ready projects in six states. Initiated in the 2018 Farm Bill, the grant program helps to fund the costs of installing wood energy systems and building innovative wood product facilities in rural communities nationwide. Awardees will use locally sourced wood to reduce energy costs and fossil fuel use while supporting sustainable forest management.

These grants also support innovative wood products manufacturing facilities that make products like building components and other products made from low-value or low-quality wood.

Two of the Community Wood Grants are awarded to DCI Furniture, Inc. in New Hampshire and Arizona Log & Timber Works, LLC in Arizona. DCI Furniture will use the funds to install a new wood boiler to generate heat and electricity at a furniture plant. Arizona Log & Timber Words will use the funds to build a biochar plant, firewood kiln, and pole peeler to expand a forest products facility. A complete list of Community Wood Grant recipients is available now on the Forest Service website.

Community Forest Grants

Forest Service Community Forest Program awards for fiscal year 2021 include $4 million to support 10 projects across nine states. The grants include financial assistance to local governments, Indian tribes, and qualified nonprofit organizations to create, expand and enhance community owned and community managed forests. Project work will help communities acquire and conserve forests that provide public access and recreational opportunities, protect vital water supplies and wildlife habitat, serve as demonstration sites for private forest landowners, and provide economic benefits from timber and non-timber products.

Since 2012, the program has supported 88 community-driven projects across 25 states and territories and permanently conserved more than 24,000 acres.

Visit the Forest Service website for a complete list of projects and organizations receiving grants under the Community Forests Program.

Baha Mar Unveils New Luxury Water Park

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Baha Mar, the leading resort destination in The Bahamas and home to celebrated brands Grand Hyatt, SLS and Rosewood, today reveals the upcoming debut of Baha Bay opening July 2, 2021, exclusively available to all Baha Mar guests. Set within a breathtaking Bahamian backdrop, the new luxury beachfront water park will be the latest addition to Baha Mar’s spectacular guest amenities and unparalleled offerings.

This summer, Baha Mar guests will be the first to experience Baha Bay, the $200 million luxury water park. Set on 15 lush oceanfront acres, Baha Bay will feature 24 water slides, a dueling water coaster, group raft rides, the most spectacular wave pool in the Caribbean, an action river winding through exuberant tropical landscape, a first of its kind Surf Simulator and more. Along with Baha Bay’s exciting array of aquatic activities including thrilling water slides and attractions, Baha Bay also includes splash zones for kids of all ages, beachside tranquility, and well-appointed luxurious cabanas ideal for privacy, entertaining and relaxation. The expansive beachfront adventure offers a complete customizable guest vacation.

Enjoy the luxury of choice whether relaxing at one of the Baha Bay Beach Club’s infinity pools overlooking an endless turquoise sea, indulging in multiple al fresco dining options and world-class culinary concepts, or trying your luck at the only outdoor casino gaming pavilion inside a waterpark. Guests of all ages are invited to an experience where pure relaxation and entertainment meets spacious exclusivity and warm Bahamian hospitality.

“We’re thrilled to reveal the launch of Baha Bay, coming to Baha Mar on July 2nd,” says Graeme Davis, President, Baha Mar. “As the latest addition to the resort destination’s collection of celebrated adult and family-friendly offerings, Baha Bay will provide our guests with new exceptional experiences, suitable for all ages, as we continue to redefine the Caribbean vacation.”

Baha Bay will boast a selection of elevated culinary concepts with innovative cuisines at The Market, home to Cleo Grill, Sam’s Crispy Chicken, Plant Nation and Chill. Additional individual restaurants include the famed Sugar Factory, delectable Umami Burger, and Barracuda food trucks.

Simultaneously, Baha Mar will reopen the Baha Bay Beach Club offering spectacular beachfront views of turquoise Bahamian waters. The luxurious Beach Club features 15 full-service private cabanas, daybeds, breathtaking infinity pools and poolside lounge areas for optimal seclusion and relaxation. Baha Bay Beach Club is also home to 25°N restaurant serving coastal California-inspired bites and drinks.

For more information and to make a reservation, click HERE.

Fire in Little Africa

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“SHINING” THE FIRST SINGLE AND VIDEO FROM FIRE IN LITTLE AFRICA IS OUT TODAY VIA MOTOWN RECORDS/BLACK FORUM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE BOB DYLAN CENTER AND WOODY GUTHRIE CENTER

“Shining” is a celebratory song and video conveying the peak of black excellence that defined the Greenwood District 100 Years Ago. Watch the “Shining” music video here and listen to it here.

Fire in Little Africa, a groundbreaking album of original material, written and recorded by a collective of Oklahoma hip hop artists to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre releases “Shining” today along with a striking visual. It is the first single from the album that will be released on May 28 by Motown Records/Black Forum in partnership with Tulsa’s Bob Dylan Center and Woody Guthrie Center. Watch, post and share the music video here.

“Shining” was produced by Executive Producer Dr. View and features Tulsa area artists Steph Simon, Dialtone, Ayilla and Jerica Wortham. The video was produced and directed by Boomintree Films with Assistant Director avitiuh.

Giving context to the video, Dr. View shares,”’Shining’ is a trip back in time to Tulsa in 1920, just before Black Wall Street was attacked, bombed and burned to the ground in the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The video conveys the peak of Black Excellence that defined the Greenwood district 100 years ago and ties it to the Fire in Little Africa movement that is showing the world how Tulsa still shines today.” He continues, “We know that the story of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre is one filled with pain, darkness and trauma for Black people, but the story of Tulsa in 2021 is about the greatness that rose from the ashes. “Shining” humanizes the victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre, taking them out of the history books and showing them on a night on the town living life joyfully. That is what Greenwood was, is, and will always be about.”

ABOUT FIRE IN LITTLE AFRICA

The 21-track collection gets to the truth of what happened on May 31 and June 1, 1921 when a white mob descended on the streets of Greenwood, then a prosperous Tulsa neighborhood known as Black Wall Street, and burned down the business district, destroying roughly 1,500 homes, killing hundreds, and leaving thousands of Black Tulsans homeless. For years, this historic, albeit dire, chapter was left out of classrooms and textbooks as the city attempted to erase this part of its past. The artists heard on Fire in Little Africa get to the truth through urgent songs, recalling stories told and stories lived in hope to usher in a new era for Tulsa as they help the community process this generational trauma through music.

Motown Records Chairman & CEO Ethiopia Habtemariam said, “Fire in Little Africa is a powerful and timely project that will reward listeners with a sense of discovery. Not only does it examine a largely overlooked chapter in our history, the album also pulls the curtain back on the vibrant hip hop scene that has been Oklahoma’s best-kept secret. Like the citizens who created Black Wall Street, the artists of Fire in Little Africa are driven by creativity, love, and an uplifting, ego-free sense of community. The project aligns perfectly with Black Forum’s commitment to introducing the next generation of game changers.”

Stevie “Dr. View” Johnson, PhD, Manager, Education & Diversity Outreach at the Woody Guthrie Center | Bob Dylan Center and the album’s executive producer added, “Fire in Little Africa has evolved into a communal hip hop movement and we’re excited that we get to share the flavor, history and legacy of Black Wall Street with the world, in collaboration with the amazing leadership of the Motown/Black Forum family. We’re grateful for Ethiopia’s foresight in providing us an opportunity to share our important stories with the world. There are Black Wall Streets across the diaspora and we unequivocally know that Fire in Little Africa will inspire many people. In the words of Steph Simon, everything is us.”

In this feature, Rolling Stones noted, Fire in Little Africa is poised to teach the world about that long-suppressed history, from locals who grew up in a community that still lives with the aftermath of the massacre. Just as important, the artists involved in the project also hope it serves as a launching-pad moment for Tulsa’s hip-hop scene, which has long flown under the national radar

The album was recorded in Greenwood over a five-day period in March 2020. Studios were set up at the Greenwood Cultural Center and other locations, including the former home of 1921 massacre mastermind/KKK leader Tate Brady. The house is now owned by former NFL first-round draft pick and Tulsa native Felix Jones. The Tulsa World was on hand to speak with the artists involved in the historic sessions. Read the article here and check out the accompanying video here.

“Fireside with Dr. View” is a weekly podcast featuring “Dr. View” in conversation with thought leaders in activism, academia and culture, centered on the movement behind the Fire in Little Africa music. Listen to “Fireside with Dr. View” here. Hosts Ali Shaw and Doc Free sit down with Fire in Little Africa artists, Tulsa community leaders and national voices for conversations on music and culture in the “Fire in Little Africa” podcast, which can be found here.

Located in the Tulsa Arts District, the Woody Guthrie Center opened in 2013. The Bob Dylan Center is expected to open on the same block within the next year. Both are projects of the George Kaiser Family Foundation, the primary funder for Fire in Little Africa. The album is chronicled in a documentary film, which will be released later this year.

Fire in Little Africa marks the first new material released by Black Forum since the label’s relaunch earlier this year. Black Forum originally debuted in 1970 with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Why I Oppose The War In Vietnam, which won a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album. The label reissued Dr. King’s influential speech earlier this year.

Masked Wolf’s New Remix

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MASKED WOLF ENLISTS SUPERSTARS G-EAZY & DDG FOR SPECIAL REMIX OF HIS GLOBAL SMASH

Astronaut in the Ocean (Remix) featuring G-Eazy & DDG arrives today, listen here. The Australian rapper’s breakout single “Astronaut in the Ocean” has already hit #1 in 6 countries around the world with over half a billion streams to date. His world television debut performance was on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, watch here.

Elektra recording artist Masked Wolf has enlisted superstars G-Eazy and DDG for a special re-imagining of his global smash “Astronaut In The Ocean” (Remix) feat. G-Eazy & DDG arrives today at all streaming services. Listen HERE.

Masked Wolf explains, “I’ve always wanted to do a remix of Astro, but it had to be right. The song means a lot to me so I really thought about who I wanted on it. As soon as I heard DDG on “Moonwalking”, I was like, I need this guy. He’s so talented and I knew he would rip a crazy verse. I’m a huge fan of G-Eazy, and, sonically, he fits the song perfectly – he just has that swag about him, but can also talk about real things too.

DDG adds, “The song is so fire. I heard it like 6 months ago and was like, damn, I gotta hop on it. My boy Masked Wolf is going crazy and is the next big superstar up fasho. I’m honored to be a part of such a big record.

The Australian rapper’s breakout single also available now on all streaming platforms – has already amassed over half a billion streams to date, and climbed to #1 in 6 countries around the world. In the U.S., “Astronaut In The Ocean” currently sits at #8 on Billboard’s Hot 100, and is quickly proving to be a multi-format success at radio, hitting the Top 15 at both Rhythmic and Pop, and Top 30 at Hot AC. Meanwhile, the official music video has logged over 100 million views on YouTube alone. Last month, Masked Wolf made his world television debut with an epic performance on NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The collaboration with G-Eazy and DDG arrives on the heels of the release of Brazilian superstar Alok’s remix of “Astronaut In The Ocean.”

About Masked Wolf

Transforming from a mild-mannered man by day into an unrestrained beast in the studio, Masked Wolf (aka, Harry Michael) has unassumingly established himself as a powerful, passionate, and primal hip-hop force. After graduating from school, the Sydney, Australia native tirelessly worked in sales to fund recording. He even took out a loan to build a home studio as he cut hundreds of songs and logged thousands of hours in the lab. In 2018, he dropped his independent debut “Speed Racer”. It gathered millions of streams and turned heads across Australia. Following “Night Rider” and “Water Walkin”, he unveiled “Astronaut in the Ocean”. Awash in airy guitar, jagged 808s, neon keys, and deft wordplay; he submerged himself in honest lyricism, facing depression head-on. That one-two-punch of a recognizable riff and chantable chorus organically caught fire online. It quickly incited 350,000-plus Tik Tok videos, spanning everything from footage of U.S. military Blackhawk chopper crews to welders and ice fisherman (far from your typical Tik Tok fare!). Meanwhile, Kansas City Chief Super Bowl champ quarterback Patrick Mahomes even incorporated the tune into an Instagram post, fueling its explosion in early 2021. Amassing streams in the hundreds of millions and counting , the buzzing rapper and singer unleashes a torrent of personal truths and emotions on his 2021 debut for Elektra Records and more to come.

About G-Eazy

Multi-platinum recording artist and producer G-Eazy has established himself as a leading force in the music and touring world. His third full-length studio album The Beautiful & Damned (2017) debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200, garnered two No. 1 radio hits “No Limit” featuring A$AP Rocky & Cardi B and “Him & I” featuring Halsey and has since been certified platinum by the RIAA. The 5x platinum single “No Limit” has been streamed over 1 billion times worldwide to date. The Beautiful & Damned followed his platinum-certified sophomore album When It’s Dark Out (2015), which featured the 5x platinum single “Me, Myself & I”; with Bebe Rexha

Known for his smooth raps, pristine production and dexterous range, the Bay-area rapper has performed on Saturday Night Live, MTV Video Music Awards, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live! and many more. He has won a People’s Choice Award for “Favorite Hip-Hop Artist”, named one of Forbes “30 Under 30”, and covered publications such as GQ Italia, XXL, Flaunt and Rollacoaster. Additionally, he will continue his partnership with PUMA, recently announcing their first collaborative shoe is in the works. PUMA will also continue to support his philanthropy, The Endless Summer Fund, a non-profit dedicated to helping Bay Area under-served youth reach their full potential and strengthening the community and their joint program, “From The Bay to the Universe”, in which G-Eazy selects a group of developing musicians to support their artistic efforts.

About DDG

DDG’s story remains a rarity for rap. The high school valedictorian turned himself into a self-made multi-millionaire by hustling on YouTube as he simultaneously rapped his way to the forefront of hip-hop. However, he consistently shakes up the status quo with unpredictable and undeniable bangers. After 2018’s “Take Me Serious”, he rose to the top of the hip-hop class on VALEDICTORIAN. Within just a year, the single “ARGUMENTS” scored his first gold certification. Igniting 2020, he achieved a major breakthrough with the gold certified record “Moonwalking In Calabasas (Remix)” featuring Blueface, earning a ubiquitous hit and his second gold plaque in the process. In the aftermath, he appeared in features by the likes of Esquire and more, while Lyrical Lemonade professed him to be a “Rap Star in the Making”. Generating over half-a-billion total streams and views and building a rabid fan base, DDG’s influence proves downright inescapable. His story has only just begun to get really interesting.

Look out for much more to come from Masked Wolf in 2021 and make sure to follow him on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and his website.