Blog Archives

Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President Interview

No one works harder for all 2.6 million Brooklynites than Marty Markowitz. Since entering Borough Hall in January 2002, Marty has reinvigorated the office of borough president, serving as the tireless chief advocate for Brooklyn’s economic, social and cultural interests, while initiating and promoting efforts to improve Brooklynites’ quality of life. Born and raised in Crown Heights, Marty graduated from Wingate High School in 1962. He received his B.A. in Political Science after attending evening sessions at Brooklyn College from 1962 to 1970.

Marty’s efforts to stimulate and grow Brooklyn’s economy include revitalizing Coney Island, re-zoning Greenpoint-Williamsburg and Downtown Brooklyn, lowering auto insurance rates, cleaning up Newtown Creek, encouraging development of the Brooklyn Cruise Ship Terminal, wooing regional corporate headquarters, large manufacturers and retailers, startups and green businesses, and lobbying on behalf of Brooklynites for the affordable housing and jobs attached to the Atlantic Yards project. Just as important are programs like Shop Brooklyn, the Lighten Up Brooklyn and Take Your Man to the Doctor campaigns, Camp Brooklyn, the jobs-for-youth Summer HEAT program, Dine in Brooklyn restaurant week, the Brooklyn Book Festival, the smART Brooklyn Gallery Hop and Brooklyn Tourism, all of which have helped make Brooklyn a better place to live, work, and raise a family.

Vision Expo New York-2024

The Vision Council and RX, co-organizers of Vision Expo, are thrilled to bring compelling accredited continuing education offerings to the industry at Vision Expo East 2024.

The comprehensive VisionEd optometry and opticianry program kicks off Thursday, March 14, one day prior to the celebratory exhibit hall opening on Friday, March 15 and runs through Sunday, March 17.

VisionEd at Vision Expo East 2024 promises to be an enriching educational experience for ODs, opticians and allied health professionals that will allow each to gain meaningful knowledge that can seamlessly be incorporated into their practices.

The entire program will feature approximately 200 sessions made up of 300 hours of content presented by 100 of the industry’s finest and most sought-after speakers offering conferees the very best eyecare education.

“The VisionEd program at Vision Expo East 2024 is a testament to our commitment to advancing the eyecare industry through a strong education program that has been created by industry, for industry,” said Fran Pennella, Vice President, Vision Expo at RX.

“This year’s OD education program will feature new, dynamic and fun custom-designed clinical courses that will challenge the mind and provide engagement such as, “Ask The Experts,” and “Two Truths & A Lie,” where cases will be shared from conferees and our experts will offer their clinical acumen.

The program is also rich with courses for every mode of optometric care, including business, contact lenses, aesthetics, and much more,” said Vision Expo Education Planning Chair, Dr. Marc Bloomenstein, OD, FAAO.

Taking place on Thursday, March 14, Vision Expo East will also offer the complimentary Global Contact Lens Forum developed by Dr. Melissa Barnett, OD. This ‘meeting within a meeting’ provides conferees with practical, timely tips in both clinical and business processes to help take their specialty contact lens practice to the next level.

Respected, highly successful contact lens practitioners will share what’s new and sexy in contacts.

Support the above vendors by learning more about their companies and brands or purchasing them from their respected websites. Thousands of people in attendance, over the Three-day period, wonderful debuts of glasses from all over the world, it was World Liberty TV, Teams, 20th Annual appearance covering The Vision Expo East. To see more about Vision Expo East 2024, click here for more information.

International Beauty Show & IECSC NY Shows NYC-2024

Questex’s International Esthetics, Cosmetics, & Spa Conference (IECSC New York) and International Beauty Show (IBS New York) return to the Javits Convention Center March 3-5, 2024.

Co-locating to offer beauty and wellness professionals nearly 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, where hundreds of brands will be selling at professionals-only prices.

 IECSC and IBS are planning for unprecedented events in 2024, including expanded educational opportunities and new and revitalized onsite experiences.

Plus, attendees can experience both shows at no additional cost, enabling them to walk both exhibit show floors, and attend any of the free classes at either event.

“We are pleased to introduce fresh classes and experiences to this year’s co-located New York Shows, featuring our new Master Class education series, the What’s New for You Zone, and the Say Yes to You Hub,” says Elizabeth Fantetti Trevorrow, partnership and event director, Questex’s Beauty & Spa Group.

“Our objective is to equip members of the beauty and wellness communities with the necessary tools and support for success.

Whether it’s access to top-tier education and instructors, cutting-edge products and techniques, or competitive prices on client essentials, our shows are crafted to elevate attendees and foster their professional growth.”

IECSC NY will have its curated Conference Education — a diverse range of paid classes featuring speakers with unique expertise, all aimed at providing the essential knowledge and insights to elevate and grow businesses, as well as the free Product Focused Education offerings — informative sessions and workshops led by top exhibitors and offering a deep dive into a specific product or service.

All attendees from either event may participate in product focused sessions for no additional fee.

Say Yes to You Hub – Located on the IBS NY Show floor, the Say Yes to You Hub is an area for attendees to relax and recharge, with a schedule of offerings that focus on enriching their personal well-being.

On Sunday, complimentary headshots and chair massages will be offered. On Monday and Tuesday, enriching content on mental health, gut health, emotional intelligence, body alignment, spiritual energy, and more will be featured.

What’s New for You Zone – Located on both the IBS and IECSC NY Show floors, is a place to check out an exciting collection of first-time exhibitors.

This is a great opportunity try a new line, engage with a company new to the show floor, or be the first to test a product new to the market.

The Powerhouse Pavilion: Celebrating Black Beauty Entrepreneurs has been revitalized for 2024! The pavilion will feature stage presentations by iconic Black beauty entrepreneurs such as Faatemah Ampey, Keya Neal, and Monae Everett, plus new panel discussions, hosted by elite industry educators. Highlights of those panels include:

Quest Zero: As part of Questex’s Quest Zero initiative, the company’s ongoing commitment to be Net Zero by 2050, IECSC and IBS are collaborating with GLO™ (Green Life Organization) Salon Recycling, which provides zero-landfill recycling solutions for the salon industry, as a Recycling Partner to reduce salon and spa waste on site at the show.

Attendees will notice strategically placed GLO Recycling bins throughout the show to collect various forms of waste including hair, plastic bottles, electronics, soaps, brushes, hair color, foil, gloves, nail polish, perfumes, aerosols, and other flammable materials.

IECSC New York 2024 exhibiting brands include: Celluma, Circadia, Dermalogica, Eminence Organic Skin Care, HydraFacial, Face Reality Skincare, FarmHouse Fresh, Glymed Plus, LightStim, Silhouet-Tone USA, Procell Therapies, Repechage and more!

See Many more product debuts at International Beauty Show and International Esthetics, Cosmetics and  Spa NY Show-2024, in our World Liberty TV, Health, Beauty and Wellness Channels.

 

Devin Haney VS Ryan Garcia Mega Fight , NY Press Conference-2024

A dangerous rivalry that has been brewing since their days in the amateur boxing scene has finally hit a fever pitch as undefeated, former undisputed lightweight champion and current WBC Super Lightweight Champion Devin “The Dream” Haney (31-0, 15 KOs) will defend his title against international PPV star “King” Ryan Garcia (24-1, 20 KOs).

The 12-round fight is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Haney Promotions, KingRy Promotions, and Matchroom Boxing. The mega-event will take place at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday, April 20, exclusively live on DAZN PPV.

“Facing Ryan Garcia on April 20, 2024, is another step in my pursuit of greatness and cementing my legacy as one of the sport’s greatest champions,” said Devin Haney. “I don’t need to say much. My track record speaks to my ability in the ring to overcome any challenge thrown my way, and rise to the top.

I will place everything in the Lord’s hand. I pray that Devin comes out healthy and safe, and that everyone is entertained.”

“The Golden Boy mantra is the best fighting the best, and it’s hard to remember a better example of that than when Ryan Garcia and Devon Haney square off on April 20,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya.

“Championship gold, bragging rights over a long, intense rivalry and the status as the face of American boxing will all be on the line with no catchweight, rehydration clauses or other nonsense. This is a can’t miss fight that fans can’t afford to miss.”

“We are incredibly excited to be broadcasting this mega fight live on DAZN PPV,” said Jared Kass, SVP North America DAZN.

“Devin and Ryan are two next superstars of US boxing but only one can be crowned come final bell on April 20.

This stacked night of boxing joins an already packed spring schedule which sees Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou fight March 8, the Undisputed Heavyweight Title between Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk May 18 and countless domestic matchups all live and only on DAZN.”

Devin Haney, widely known as “The Dream,” is an undefeated and accomplished professional boxer with a perfect record of 31 wins and 0 losses who has taken the boxing world by storm. With his lightning-fast hands, exceptional boxing skills, and unyielding determination, Haney has emerged as one of the sport’s most exciting and promising talents today.

The two-division champion left no doubt when he was elected Sports Illustrated 2023 ‘Fighter of the Year.’ In a remarkable feat, he has attained the title of the youngest undisputed world champion and the first undisputed lightweight world champion in the modern four-belt era by dethroning then-champion George Kambosos.

“King” Ryan Garcia has become one of the biggest names in boxing, and at only 25-years-old has broken into the mainstream. Garcia has proven that he is a supreme, pay-per-view attraction, having generated one of the top 5 best boxing gates in Nevada boxing history.

Haney vs. Garcia is a 12-round fight for the WBC Super Lightweight World Championship that is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Haney Promotions, KingRy Promotions, and Matchroom Boxing. The event will take place on Saturday, April 20 on DAZN PPV live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

The Other Press Conference Participants included: Chris Mannix , Emcee of the event, Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions, Bernard Hopkins, Boxing great,

Eddie hearns, chairman of Matchroom boxing, Bill Haney Father and Trainer of Devin Haney, Mauricio Suliman, President of WBC, and representatives from DAZN Boxing .

See More about Haney VS Garcia in our World Liberty TV, Boxing Channels by clicking here.

NY NOW Winter Market Show Feb-2024

The NY NOW 2024 Winter Market is gearing up for an iconic return to the Jacob Javits Center in New York, captivating global attendees from February 4 to 7, 2024.

Renowned as the premier gift and home wholesale market show, this bi-annual event continues to serve as the ultimate hub for brands, buyers, and designers in the heart of New York City. NY NOW represents a beacon for the wholesale community and offers a space for exploration and innovation, where a diverse array of products including gifts, accessories, global design, home design, luxury lifestyle, toys, stationery, and more will take center stage.

Designed to showcase the ever-evolving landscape of retail and commerce and offer attendees a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the industry, NY NOW will feature content and expert perspectives, engaging product installations, and immersive experiences.

This year, attendees can anticipate a multifaceted program that goes beyond traditional event offerings.

“We’ve curated an immersive environment that not only honors our rich history but also introduces new and dynamic elements,” said Kim Mancuso-Telford, General Manager of NY NOW.

“Our focus remains centered on advancing the future of the industry while continuing to foster meaningful connections with our vibrant community. From captivating product showcases to thought-provoking seminars, we’re embracing the excitement and discovery that has defined and will continue to define NY NOW for another century to come!

We are honored to bring this iconic event back to NYC, and we can’t wait to share this momentous occasion with new and familiar faces.”

Celebrating a century of excellence, the Winter Market promises a variety of insightful discussions, hands-on workshops, and interactive demonstrations that will continue to push the boundaries of innovation and set the standard for shows to come:  

It was very well attended show, buyers and vendors in attendance from all over the World in attendance.

About NY NOW: NY NOW is the largest gift, home, and accessories wholesale trade show in New York, where brands, buyers, and designers come twice per year to make the game-changing connections that supercharge their businesses. NY NOW and online wholesale marketplace partner, Bulletin, connect 4,000+ independent brands with 40,000+ U.S. and international buyers from independent stores, museums, department stores, bookstores, galleries, general gift shop, art & entertainment venues and many more.

With 3 core sections across 35+ product categories, NY NOW encompasses home décor and tableware, gifts, accessories, jewelry, and so much more. Attendees can explore an extensive range of offerings, from stationery, eclectic gifts, and trending home décor to aromatherapy and fragrance, skincare, wellness, and fine jewelry, and even emerging categories such as sexual wellness and cannabis and psychedelics. The show promises the unrivaled thrill of in-person connection and endless discovery, and NY NOW Online, the integrated wholesale platform, makes ordering a breeze for thousands of buyers in attendance. It’s a true hybrid wholesale experience.

About Emerald: Emerald’s talented and experienced team grows our customers’ businesses 365 days a year through connections, content, and commerce. We expand connections that drive new business opportunities, product discovery, and relationships with over 140 annual events, matchmaking, and lead-gen services. We create content to ensure that our customers are on the cutting edge of their industries and are continually developing their skills. And we power commerce through efficient year-round buying and selling. We do all this by seamlessly integrating in-person and digital platforms and channels. Emerald is immersed in the industries we serve and committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. As true partners, we create experiences that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results.

See more of NY NOW Winter 2024 Market, A Showcase of Innovation and Trends, in our World Liberty TV, Gift and Houseware Channels by clicking here.

CANELO VS CHARLO Mega Fight in Las Vegas-2023

Undisputed Super Middleweight Champion Álvarez Defends Titles Against Undisputed Junior Middleweight Champion Charlo Saturday, September 30 Headlining SHOWTIME PPV® From T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Canelo Promotions Presents a Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View.

NEW YORK – August 15, 2023 – Boxing superstars Canelo Álvarez and Jermell Charlo faced off for the first time on Tuesday at a kickoff press conference in New York to preview their blockbuster showdown that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) on Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View.

The undisputed super middleweight world champion Canelo will take on the undisputed junior middleweight world champion Charlo in a historic matchup that will pit two reigning undisputed champions against each other for the first time in the four-belt era.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from Palladium Times Square:

CANELO ÁLVAREZ: “Thank you to Jermell for taking this fight. I’m very happy to be in this position and to be in big fights. Jermell is a great fighter who takes on big challenges just like I do. I always take risks.

“Jermell is a great fighter and this is a fight that’s been out there as a possibility for a long time. Now is the correct time for this fight. “I’m gonna put everything into the ring. My experience, my power and my skills. It’s going to take everything to win this fight. It’s going to be a great night for the fans.

“It’s good that people are saying I’ve lost a step. It’s fine. I know why I didn’t look as good in my last two fights. I know why and I’m different now. I’m preparing now for a different type of fighter.

“I’m 100% focused on this fight. Then we’ll see what happens after. Everyone wants drama and for us to fight on this stage, but when two fighters are 100% focused like we are right now, it’s gonna make it a great fight in the ring.

“I have everything that he says he has as well. I have experience and I’ve been in this position a lot of times. That’s why we’re here. We’re going to find out if he’s got enough on September 30.

“I love being in these kinds of fights. Stay tuned on September 30 because this is gonna be a great night for boxing.”

JERMELL CHARLO “This is a long time coming. Canelo and Eddy are legends in the game of boxing. They’ve put on great shows and I want to be the one that gets in there and takes it all away from them.

“Me and my brother Jermall have been putting on for boxing and it’s our time now. A lot of people are worried about the wrong things. When you want to win something this big, you have to risk it all.

“I just want to quiet my haters and doubters and turn non-believers into believers. I’ve watched a lot of great people in the sport of boxing and now I think this is the best moment for me to leave my mark. With two great fighters in there, you get nothing but fireworks. When this fight presented itself, it was a no-brainer to make this happen.

“I’m gonna train my ass off and be intelligent. I know I’m moving up in weight, but who cares? That won’t stop me from getting in there and doing it the way I do it. I’m excited for this moment.

“My heart, desire and determination will give me what I need to win. I guarantee a great night and that you’re gonna hear some lions roaring.

“I don’t have any excuses. Whatever happens happens. I came here to win this fight. I’m not laying down. I don’t care what anyone says.

“I’m so proud to be one of the fighters who’s able to get in there and step up and fight the best. I’m gonna be training my ass off. Tune in on September 30. Be there or be square. We’re gonna turn this into a whole new ball game.”

EDDY REYNOSO, Canelo’s Trainer and Manager “Here we are in New York, once again announcing what will be one of the best fights in recent memory. Styles makes fights, and I believe that both Charlo and Canelo possess the kind of contrasting styles that fans will love to see in a fight.

“Charlo is a great champion and has a great trainer in as Derrick James. He is a great fighter with a big heart that has gotten up off the mat after losing, and that makes him even more dangerous. He lost, but he also redeemed himself and showed that you can redeem yourself to earn big fights like this one.

“This will definitely be a challenge. Charlo is capable of ending the fight at any moment, and we must be ready for anything he migh do.

“We know it will be a tough fight, but we are always ready. You will all see a great fight, and you will also see a very different Canelo compared to the one you saw during the last few fights.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer “This is a fight that Jermell Charlo has always wanted. It’s the type of fight he’s needed to put him into super superstardom. Canelo is a great fighter with a great trainer and they’ve been so consistent over the years. It’s hard to do that in boxing.

“It’s gonna take Jermell being the best version of himself. He’s gonna have to be focused in training camp and focused in the fight. He’s gonna get what he needs to get because of the focus he has and because he knows he has to be himself.

“Jermell should be comfortable with the weight on fight night. He’s daring to be great. He’s all about stepping up and taking the challenges. He wants to be undisputed in two weight classes at the same time.

“It’s all about us coming in and doing what we do best. Both guys are gonna try to do whatever they can do to come out successful. It’s gonna be a great and exciting night of boxing.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions “September 30 will be another night of history. It’s impressive what both men have accomplished to become undisputed. And we also have the back-to-back Trainer of the Year winners in Eddy Reynoso and Derrick James up here as well. It’s everything you would want for a mega fight.

“Canelo is truly one of the sport’s best ever. He’s a hero in Mexico and universally respected. He’s a throwback fighter who takes on all challengers and he’s boxing’s biggest star.

“Jermell will bring everything he’s got to this fight. He’s cleaned out the division and beaten every fighter he’s faced. He’s not just convinced he can win this fight, he’s convinced he will.

“This is a classic old school fight with two guys who can really crack. It will come down to who can handle themselves under fire. It’s a super fight you don’t want to miss.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, SHOWTIME SPORTS® “Coming off some of the biggest and most anticipated fights in recent memory, we have a special one on September 30. This is another matchup with historic implications, the first bout in the four-belt era pitting two undisputed champions.

“Regardless of who you are rooting for, these two men are among the elites in boxing. Both have historic achievements. Canelo has defeated 18 world champions in his career. He has fought at least one world champion every year for the last 10 years.

“Jermell Charlo is the first undisputed 154-pound world champion in the four-belt era. He could join Terence Crawford as the only male boxer to become undisputed in two weight classes in the four-belt era.

“This event is a rare opportunity to witness greatness. Greatness means not being satisfied with being the first and only four-belt undisputed super welterweight champion. Greatness is pushing for more; more challenges, more history, continuing to test the limits of your own performance. Greatness is taking tough fights and big challenges when you don’t have to.”

See more in our World Liberty TV, Boxing Channels, Blogs and Who is Who? of the boxing World Photo-Galleries.

New York Travel & Adventure Show -Twenty Twenty Four

NEW YORK TRAVEL & ADVENTURE SHOW RETURNS TO JACOB K. JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER JANUARY 27-28, 2024, Celebrate travel with inspiration from hundreds of exhibitors, trip giveaways and expert tips from favorite travel celebrities including Rick Steves, Phil Rosenthal and Peter Greenberg.

The New York Travel Adventure Show, America’s Favorite Travel Show Series, returns to New York Jan. 27-28 for its third year as New York’s Largest Travel Show. Taking place at the Javits Convention Center, the 2024 Show is featuring more exhibitors, trip giveaways, travel insights and advice from top industry experts, and opportunities to prepare for travel in 2024.

Live entertainment on the Global Beats Stage and take-home mementos courtesy of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma at the green screen photo booth.

The new Outdoor Pavilion will feature the top destinations and tour companies for those seeking new and unique outdoor experiences, presented by OWAA. Beach backdrops, complimentary rum tastings and tasty goodies to sample can be found at the Caribbean Pavilion which this year features even more Caribbean destinations than ever before.

The LGBTQ Pavilion: Back by popular demand! LGBTQ travelers and their allies will find a warm welcome at the LGBTQ Travel Pavilion, where they’ll have the opportunity to connect with expert speakers offering educational, inspiring and entertaining insights on experiences, tours, cruises and travel packages.

Additionally, they can discover truly welcoming hotels and the most LGBTQ-friendly insurance, ensuring safe and confident travel experiences. Sponsored by South African Tourism and Visit Fort Lauderdale, the LGBTQ Pavilion will also host multiple presentations and seminars throughout the weekend.

“Since its introduction three years ago, the New York Travel & Adventure Show has become the premier event in travel in the most important travel market in the USA,” said John Golicz, CEO of the Travel & Adventure Show Series.

About Unicomm, LLC and the Travel & Adventure Show Series: Unicomm, LLC is an independent business-to-business communications company specializing in originating and managing world-class trade shows and conferences.

Unicomm’s properties include the nation’s largest and longest-running series of travel events, the Travel & Adventure Show in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, New York, Phoenix, San Francisco/Bay Area and Washington, D.C. Unicomm also produces industry-leading conferences including the annual American Traveler Trends Forum.

People from all over the world were in attendance showcasing their destinations, thousands in attendance, see more in our World Liberty TV, Travel and Tourism Channels by clicking here.

 

The Vendors in Partnership (VIP) Awards- NYC-2024

Celebrating Innovation, Empathy and Excellence among the Retail Solution Provider Community.

The Vendors in Partnership (VIP) Awards is an industry celebration for the solution providers that are powering the retail ecosystem. In addition to celebrating great solutions, the recognized companies are those who are willing to adapt to make more meaningful partnerships with retailers, increasing the success for all.

The Vendors in Partnership (VIP) Awards are an industry celebration for the solution providers that power the retail ecosystem, and the new ways that partnerships were formed and challenges were overcome.

We want to acknowledge service to this industry, and will recognize and celebrate a willingness to transform from within, create deep and perceptive partnerships, and great solutions.

Having established these awards for the solution provider community, we are also giving retailers a formal way to support, influence and recognize those partners who integrate business methodologies based on shared success measures and a service level designed for mutual benefit.

Let’s recognize the brave, the innovators, the teachers, the supporters and the agitators…

The Event took place at the Gotham Hall. Located in the iconic Midtown landmark building that once housed Greenwich Savings Bank. The venue features a 9,000 square-foot Ballroom with 70-foot ceiling and an ornate stained-glass skylight.

The Keynote speaker of the night was: Manley’s love of climbing began in college. Invited by a friend to try out a beginner’s rock climb in the hills of Kentucky, he stepped up into the Vertical and was instantly hooked.

He began climbing anywhere and anytime he could. After each adventure, he would reverse-engineer the experience, evaluating what had (or hadn’t) helped him reach the summit.

The lessons he unpacked didn’t just improve his climbing, but his leadership as he helped Build-A-Bear scale from 42 stores to 425 worldwide and increase revenue from $55 Million to $470 Million.

Join Manley Feinberg as he teases the gravity of high-stakes choices amidst life’s sheer cliffs at the VIP Awards North America.

The 2024 VIP Awards Winners were all well deserving of these great iconic awards, which we saw proudly displayed at the NRF 2024, booths by the winning vendors. To see the 2024 VIP Award winners, click here.

See More Coverage of VIP Awards 2024, in our World Liberty TV, Retail Channels by clicking here.

15th Annual ROI Super Saturday Event NYC

The Purpose of the Retail Orphan Initiative (RetailROI) is to raise awareness and provide real solutions for the more than 400 million vulnerable children worldwide.

RetailROI has 3 primary goals: Bring Awareness to the enormous needs of orphans worldwide: There are over 143 Million Orphans in the world, according to UNICEF.

If Orphans were a country, they would be the 8th largest…larger than Russia.A child dies every 5.2 seconds…. that’s over 16,000 children EVERY DAY.

In the NY foster care system, 60% of children who age out end up homeless. More children age out of care systems in 1 week than are adopted in an entire year.

 Encourage companies: (Retailers, Vendors, Manufacturers) to create programs internally for their companies to help with the need:

Be mentors for foster kids in your area    Provide non-paid leave for employees who adopt or who are foster parents, establish grant or no-interest loan programs for employees who want to adopt.

Raise Funds:  through the following ways to help “feet on the street” charities who are making a real difference: Direct donations from companies and individuals.

Making RetailROI a charity that receives matching funds from your company, specially marked packages of toys, cereals, and clothing for kids.

Roundup for Orphans at the point-of-sale where consumers can round up their transactions to the nearest $.

There are several ways for you to get involved in Retail ROI. We’ve broken it down below, depending on your specific interests.

The journey of a million miles begins with a single step. Will you take one step with us today? Do one thing, and invite one person to take one step. Then, ask them to do the same .Celebrating our 15th year, Retail ROI is once again bringing together retail’s most prominent thinkers.

For revealing discussions on retail technology. Join us on Saturday and you will also change the world for a child..

Charity Keynote speaker was Darryl McDaniel’s of RunDMC ,Hip Hop Pioneer,who was adopted as an child, listen to his keynote in our World Liberty TV, Entertainment Channels by clicking here.

It was a great event, retail Tycoons and professionals helping and supporting Retail Orphan Initiative, and many children worldwide. We want to thank Greg Buzek Founder and president of Retail Orphan Initiative, for his kind invite, his heart and soul is in the right place bringing all the people together to support a great humanitarian cause.

See More about Retail Orphan Initiative, in our World Liberty TV, Business Channels by clicking here, and also to listen to Darryl McDaniel’s of RunDMC, Hip Hop Pioneer, in our World Liberty TV, Entertainment Channels  by clicking here.

NRF 2024: RETAIL’S BIG SHOW

The National Retail Federation has represented retail for over a century. Every day, we passionately stand up for the people, policies and ideas that help retail thrive.

As the nation’s largest private-sector employer, retail contributes $3.9 trillion to the annual GDP. No other industry comes close.

Wherever the industry goes, the nation follows — so we’re committed to helping retail go further.

Together with our philanthropic arm, the NRF Foundation, we stand up for, celebrate, educate and inspire our industry.

We’re retail’s greatest advocates, uniting an industry of leaders and boundary breakers around complex issues and bold opportunities.

As a member of NRF, you are part of the world’s largest retail trade association, a diverse community with thousands of leading retailers and industry professionals.

NRF membership is available for retailers, industry partner companies, insights partner firms, universities and their students and international retail association members.

There were many great speakers at NRF, on Martin Luther king jr day, basketball great and billionaire businessman, was honored guest and keynote speaker.

Other Keynote speakers included: Martha Stewart, Actress and businesswoman Drew Barrymore, many fortune 500 CEO’s from the retail arena. Drew Barrymore, meanwhile, closed out NRF by speaking about her newest brand, homeware brand Beautiful which launched in 2021 exclusively at Walmart. Barrymore launched the brand with co-founder Shae Hong, the founder of kitchenware brand Made by Gather.

At NRF 2024: Retail’s Big Show, attendees step into the future at the Foodservice Innovation Zone, an interactive exploration of the technologies and innovations that are transforming the customer foodservice experience.

There was so much happening at NRF 2024, see more in our World Liberty TV, Retail channels by clicking here.

The 14th annual New York Produce Show and Conference (NYPS)

The 14th annual New York Produce Show and Conference (NYPS) opened Dec. 5, with GRATITUDE as the overall theme. The show had a record audience of more than 5,000 executives attending the one-day trade show and three co-located events.

There were 350-plus exhibiting companies and a record of 41 sponsors. The New York Produce Show is organized by Produce Business and the Eastern Produce Council.

“Feeling grateful and showing our gratitude can be our choice as we endeavor to change forever how we experience the challenges and blessings presented by our vibrant and vital produce industry,” says Ken Whitacre, chief executive/publisher, Produce Business.

The conference opened Tuesday with the Global Trade Symposium at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel.

The symposium provided an intensive look into global trade from the perspective of produce moving in and out of the East Coast via land and sea.

Session topics included global trends; export and import challenges and opportunities; land port updates; and updates on avocados, citrus, grapes and mangos.

Mark your calendar for next year’s New York Produce Show and Conference: Dec. 10–12, 2024.

Connect with Fresh Media and Influencer Lunch at the New York Produce Show, Wednesday, December 6 at 11am at the Javits Center in New York City.

This complimentary lunch and program is a lunch workshop for qualified media only, including influential business journalists, writers, registered dietitians, lifestyle bloggers, and food and culinary experts.

Speaker’s Included: Dan Parker from Veg Power to talk about consumption promotion. Veg Power is a not-for-profit alliance of government, business, community and celebrities founded to turn around vegetable consumption in the UK. It uses advertising and communications to inspire kids to eat vegetables and create life-long good food habits that they will, in turn, share with their children. Their multi-award winning “Eat Them to Defeat Them” program has millions of children eating more vegetables.

Presenter Envy Apples and Chef Abbie Gellman, who shared some delicious flavors and recipes.

Live healthy Cooking demonstrations took place at the luncheon, close to 50 media from the culinary world were in attendance, enjoying speakers, cooking demonstrations, while enjoying lunch same time.

See more of the Lunch speakers in our World Liberty TV, Food Review channels by clicking here.

We want to thank Jodean Robbins Duarte, Coordinator, NYPS Consumer Media and Influencer Lunch Contributing Editor, Produce Business magazine, for inviting us annually.

It was our 14th Appearance covering the 14th annual New York Produce Show and Conference NYC-2023, it always gets bigger and better every year. We want to give Condolences to the family of Mrs. Santos, the late Marianne Santo, three-time president of Eastern Produce Council and senior category manager of produce and floral at Wakefern Food Corp., was honored with a video tribute, who passed away earlier this year.

I truly enjoyed meeting Mrs. Santos annually for the past five years, a wonderful warm kind loving personality, made you feel special when she spoke to you. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten RIP.

See more in about 14th annual New York Produce Show and Conference NYC-2023, in our World Liberty TV, Food Channels by clicking here.

MSC Meraviglia Cruise By World Liberty TV Travel & Tourism Team-2023

MSC Meraviglia, the first ground-breaking mega-ship ship in the Meraviglia Generation to be introduced into the MSC Cruises fleet, has been designed to meet every need of today’s cruise guest – with cutting edge technology, flexible dining options, exclusive, world-class entertainment, facilities for families and children of all ages, luxurious pampering and wellness and comfortable accommodations. MSC Meraviglia is truly a next-generation cruise ship that has never been seen before.

At 1,034 ft. long and 214 ft. tall, with an impressive 19 decks and capacity of 5,700 guests (4,488 at double occupancy), MSC Meraviglia is not only poised to become one of the biggest cruise ships at sea, but also one of the hottest holiday destinations, packed with innovative features to provide an unforgettable experience.

Galleria Meraviglia: This 315-foot central promenade is filled with boutiques, restaurants and tranquil spots for shopping, eating and relaxing… as well as socializing with friends and family. And in the evening, it comes alive with music, parties and entertainment.

Horizon pool: The Horizon pool offers superb sea views and more open-air deck space for sun worshipers during the daylight hours.

At night, the area will be transformed into a stunning outdoor spot for dancing and all kinds of entertainment under the stars.

The Broadway Theatre: Every cruise offers at least 6 different shows – even on a 7-night cruise – featuring innovative world-class and standing ovation entertainment.

Carousel Productions at Sea: Enjoy an all-new entertainment concept blending breathtaking acrobatics, dance and live music to create exclusive original productions specially designed for MSC Meraviglia Class ships.

It offers avant-garde artistic and immersive performances combined with the innovative technology in a surprising mix of new expressions and experimentation that will make you feel part of the show.

On board MSC Meraviglia, you’ll have the unique opportunity to admire two spectacular productions: ROCK CIRCUS, featuring acrobats, musicians and the greatest rock hits, and HOUSE OF HOUDINI, a celebration of some of the most wondrous illusions of Harry Houdini.

The shows take place twice a night, six nights a week, only at the Carousel Lounge, a glamorous, modern, technology-packed venue.

Taste our Signature Cocktail while you enjoy a pre-show followed by this unique entertainment experience.

MSC Aurea Spa: The MSC Aurea Spa is a luxurious Balinese spa offering signature relaxation treatments to revitalize body and soul.

Complete with a thermal area, beauty salon and nail boutique, the MSC Aurea Spa will leave you feeling pampered from head to toe.

MSC Gym by Technogym: Equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym cardio and strength-training equipment, the panoramic gym on board MSC Meraviglia gym offers a wide range of innovative fitness courses and training programs designed to suit guests of all ages and abilities.

MSC Yacht Club: Discover a place where you can savor exclusivity and privacy in a world of choice. Indulge in the luxury of a private club, while enjoying access to the myriad recreation and entertainment possibilities that the rest of the ship affords.

STATEROOMS & SUITES: MSC Meraviglia has a variety of elegant staterooms including family options, luxurious duplex suites, balcony staterooms and ocean view staterooms.

Entertainment: Enjoy exclusive shows performed in innovative venues like the Carousel Lounge and the multi-purpose karaoke bar, comedy club, TV studio and bar.

Younger guests will love our amusement park and sports center. The whole family can have hours of fun in one of the most exciting water parks at sea.

RESTAURANTS & BUFFET:MSC Meraviglia’s main restaurants serve freshly prepared Mediterranean and international cuisine, while the ship’s specialty restaurants serve up Italian delicacies, succulent steaks, superb sushi and more.

BARS & LOUNGES: There’s a wide range of glamorous bars and lounges onboard, offering refreshment and relaxation in the ideal atmosphere for every moment.

So whether you’re looking for champagne, classic cocktails or freshly prepared patisserie, you won’t have far to go.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve: is MSC Cruises’ new private island located in The Bahamas that features uninterrupted sweeping views of crystal blue waters and over two miles of pristine beachfront spread across eight world class beaches allowing guests to guests to connect with the natural environment and its beauty, feel the warmth, fun, and hospitality of the Bahamian spirit and immerse themselves in an ecologically-intelligent atmosphere.

Ocean Cay is founded on a deep commitment to ecological principles that shape everything from how the venues are built and how the island is run, to the kinds of activities featured on the island.

Formerly a sand extraction site, MSC Cruises has made significant efforts to clear the island and the surrounding ocean bed from all discarded debris – while removing a total of 7,500 tons of scrap metal – and relocating coral with the longer-term vision of encouraging coral to grow and repopulate.

These efforts will give guests the opportunity to learn about the protection of the oceans and the importance of preserving coral reefs through dedicated edutainment programs.

It was truly a great experience for 7 days, it was our first cruise ever, and I am glad we had the honor of cruising on MSC Meraviglia, so much to do and see while you are on the cruise.

We went to all the shows at The Broadway Theatre, with seeing all six shows, which included 2 magic shows, Broadway show, disco show and much more.

The Food was excellent, foods from all over the world were served on different days, so you are not eating the same food each day, included, Italian, Indian, Chinese, Spanish, Caribbean and many more countries. Food is Kosher and Halal. Breakfast was great you can sit in a restaurant and enjoy waiter service at no cost or you can go to the breakfast at the buffet and enjoy varieties of breakfast.

Dinner in the night again you can sign up for one of the restaurants, where you get table service by waiters who work in the restaurant from all over the world. We had great waiters taking care of us, and asking us over and over again if we need anything else, they did this on all seven days as we ate in the same restaurant, food is served very fast, from appetizers, to entrée and desserts. Food was fresh daily and you can eat buffet up to 1am in the morning. You can leave a tip if you like which I think is necessary, but not mandatory.

We enjoyed attending shows at 6 days while we were on the cruise, The Broadway Theatre, which holds close to 1000 Thousand people and was packed each night, the shows are unusually forty-five minutes each. You can take a drink in the theatre as you watch the show.

There was a 2 Broadway shows, a live entertainment by a Canadian singer titled from the stage to screen. Then there were two magic shows, card tricks, mentalist and an illusionist.

The entertainers and singers perform in 4 of the six shows, and also the lady dancers were also host’s helping out with Magicians shows.

I would have liked to see a different cast every night not the same group over and over again. With that said, the entertainment was average in my opinion.

There were many outdoor pools, Jacuzzi’s which you can swim or relax throughout the day. There was no line or waiting period you were able to find something immediately or just jump in with a stranger which did not mind.

There were many activities for Baby’s Kids and young adults, gaming rooms, Computer rooms, daycare centers, while the parents are enjoying a night out, there is all kinds of activities for kids while they are being cared by one of the staff members.

The was dancing every night starting at 10-45 pm till 2am in the morning, at the promenade, with a live DJ and live entertainment bands, music from all over the world. I enjoyed Bollywood dancing and Bob Marley Tribute. There is local bars and waitress’s coming around serving cocktails, soft drinks, Ice cream and chocolate stores are close by if you want to take a break from dancing and indulge in a dessert you like.

We had a pleasure of speaking to master Chocolatier Albert Fabian Sim, who works for jean philippe, world renowned Chocolatier, you would be able to see exclusive interview with him in our Video below.

We stopped by Nassau capital of Bahamas, visited the Atlantis Resort, Cabbage beach and different locations throughout Nassau. We were not able to do too much because of the weather.

We were not able to go to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, because of a storm and was instead diverted to Miami in Florida, I was really interested in visiting. But we had to be safe, maybe will get another opportunity next time.

One an average I would recommend this cruise, for couples or a family as there is so many things to do, eat and enjoy.

You can see so much more about World Liberty TV Cruises MSC Meraviglia 5th Largest Cruise Ship in the World -2023 by visiting us in our World Liberty TV, Travel & Tourism Channels by clicking here.

To Learn more about MSC Cruises and book a cruise, click here for more information.