Manufacturing in America is an issue that is personally very true to our hearts here at Made in USA Certified, Inc.  We for many years have fought to protect the integrity and reliability of “Made In USA” claims on product packaging.  Made in USA Certified is non-partisan in our efforts.  In general the ultimate goal for all of us as Americans regardless of political affiliation is to create more jobs in the U.S.A., and Made in U.S.A. -   is not a political issue but, an American issue that should unite us all.

Manufacturing in America is absolutely the biggest thing we can do as a Country to aid in our economic recovery and create jobs now.  But, it isn’t just enough to manufacture the products, we need to encourage consumers to purchase these Made in U.S.A. goods, give companies tax incentives to keep manufacturing domestically, as well as encourage innovation and exportation around the world.  Made in U.S.A is a viable brand that the world still desires.

Together, united behind a common goal we can out-compete and out-innovate the rest of the world by doing what we have always done best; manufacturing it in America.

This past Monday I was asked to be a guest speaker at the Make it in America event hosted by Democratic National Chair, Debbie Wasserman Schultz at A & M Tape & Packaging company in Sunrise, Florida.  There was not a Republican official in site, granted it was a Democratic event.  But, the no.2 most powerful Democrat in the U.S. House, Steny Hoyer (D- MD) flew in with motorcade and was flanked by Congressman Ted Deutch (D-FL) and Congressman Alcee Hastings (D- FL).  The no. 2  & no. 3 most powerful Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives, Hoyer and Wasserman-Schultz were touring and talking about a “Made in America” facility that has done just that and been incredibly successful doing it.  With laser like focus the conversation stayed centered on U.S. job creation and creating a business friendly environment for people to start manufacturing businesses, keep them here and export their Made in America goods around the world.

A & M Tape & Packaging company is a wonderful U.S. manufacturing success story.  A & M was started in 1977 by husband and wife team, David & Amy Perlman with just four employees; it has now grown to 60 workers and is undoubtedly a beacon of growth in their community.  A & M is a family run business creating jobs, training and opportunity for 60 people and their families.  But, even more impressive is the owner’s fierce commitment to buying Made in USA components for the products he manufacturers.

David Perlman and his wife Amy proudly gave the Democratic leaders and the entire group a tour of the facility that houses miles of packing tape, and more than 5 million cardboard boxes.  The pride they had for the facility, their products and service was evident.  Just recently they hired a new employee due to the increased demand for their “Made in America” products and have given this new hire on the job training arming him with new skills.

Just like, Made in USA Certified, Inc. – David and Amy Perlman, the company’s owners, aren’t especially political. They’re registered Democrats but not active in the party and don’t give political contributions. They are interested primarily in the economic success of the community, their company and their employees.

“We compete against other products that are imported,” said David Perlman, “And I just tell the customer, look, I may not be able to compete on price, but at least it’s made in the U.S. We do lose out on some sales because of that. I’d rather it be that way because I think it’s just really important.”

Well, we at Made in USA Certified agree, keeping it Made in America is the single most important thing we can do right now to create more jobs in the U.S.A.

By: Julie Reiser, President & Co-Founder of Made in USA Certified, Inc.

Made in USA Certified, Inc. is an independent, non-partisan, leading third party certification company for the Made in USA, Product of USA and Service in USA claims.

Follow Made in USA Certified on Twitter:
@usacertified
@madeinusacert

Join the Made in USA conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madeinusacertified

American Made Chic
www.americanmadechic.com

         American Made Chic (AMC) Summer Tour Kicking off in Louisville, KY

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead-American Cultural Anthropologist

Boca Raton, Florida- “American Made Chic” will set out April 30,2012 to change the views of Americans and shed light on all things American. Three incredibly talented, smart, chic American business women, will travel across the country in a red, white and blue motorhome creating high impact events and awareness for jobs, manufacturing and products Made in the America.

American Made Chic will be filming “out takes” and taking photographs for our live streaming interactive blog.  We will be showing the beauty and history of our amazing country while weaving in stories highlighting exemplary manufactures, producing products right here in the U.S.A.   Social Media has created a way for fans, and followers to interact in real time, joining us in conversations, real time contests and being a part of the summer fun allowing everyone to join us on the road this summer creating a 3-D fan experience while giving hope to Americans.

April 30, 2012

6:00-11:00 a.m.
Kentucky Derby Museum (704 Central Ave, Louisville, KY)

Meet and Greet AT&T Press Morning and kickoff of Derby festivities

May 1, 2012

6:00-9:00 p.m.
Avalon (1314 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY)

Celebrating American Made Products Happy Hour Event featuring American Made Products provided by AMC official Sponsors. AMC Tour will be presenting an award to a company or individual in the Louisville area highlighting their desire to strive for excellence in community, economy or new product development in the female category given by Women Impacting Public Policy.

May 2, 2012

10:00 a.m.
Louisville Slugger Hillerich & Bradsby Factory (800 West Main Street, Louisville, KY)

AMC Ladies will be behind the scenes touring the manufacturing plant of the highly renowned Louisville Sluggers.

6:00-8:00 p.m.
The Green Building (732 East Market, Louisville, KY)

AMC Tour will be presenting a custom-created masterpiece by R.S. Owens & Co. (Maker of the prestigious Oscar awards) to a company or individual in the Louisville area highlighting their desire to strive for excellence in community, economy or new product development.

May 3,2012

10:00 a.m.
Heaven Hill’s Bourbon Heritage Center (1311 Gilkey Run Road, Bardstown, KY)

1:00 p.m.
Maker’s Mark (3350 Burks Spring Road, Loretto, KY)

AMC Ladies and Adam Johnson, Director of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, will experience firsthand the smelling of the sour mash, seeing and hearing a column still and encounter the heavy redolence of aging Bourbon and oak in a warehouse that takes our senses to a new level.

May 4, 2012

10:00 a.m. (All Day)
Kentucky Oaks (Churchill Downs 700 Central Avenue)

AMC Ladies will experience a Louisville tradition by sipping on Oaks Lily Cocktails and watching the lilies for our filly crowning.

 6:00 p.m.
Expo Five (2900 7^th Street Road Louisville, KY)

The AMC Ladies and Expo Five Center will highlight American Spirits while enjoying an evening of entertainment with Derby Fans.

 May 5, 2012

5:00 a.m. (All Day)
Kentucky Derby (Churchill Downs 700 Central Avenue)

AMC Ladies will be at Churchill Downs behind the scenes watching the sun rising over the track, the glistening of the dew on the grass and the horses being prepped for one of the most exciting American Traditions the Run for the Roses.

* A Special thanks to our generous sponsors for assisting us in promoting the American Made Chic Tour*

Titanium Sponsors

I Choose American
Made in the USA Certified Inc.
Omegafy by Mycell Technologies
Posh Events & Destination Weddings

Platinum Sponsors

FLEXcon
GreenBrand
Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice
The Whole Brain Company
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
World’s Best Carrot Cake

 Gold Sponsors

Alliance Rubber Company
Aaron Ansorav Photography
American Blue Mark Jeans
American Cowboy Coffee
Bridgewater Candle Company
Black Halo
Buy American Movement
Earth Creations
Greenleaf Gifts
Hanky Panky
R.S. Owens & Company

Silver Sponsors

American Made Matters
Authentic American Ware
Charles Frank Custom Guitars
Douglas J Aveda Institute
Dr. Cindy Haines, Author of the New Prescription
Excel Dryers
Good for you Girls
Leelanau Wine Cellars
Meissenburg Designs
Railean Rum
Tom Bihn Bags
Tough Traveler® USA-Made Luggage, Bags and Packs
Women Impacting Public Policy

 Local Business Support

Avalon Restaurant
Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Churchill Downs
Expo Five Center
Highlands Neighborhood
Louisville Originals
Luna Boutique
NULU Neighborhood
The Green Building
The Seelbach Hotel

Contact:
Julie Reiser
O: 561-279-2855
info@usa-c.com

Bed and Mattress company discloses total manufacturing process to the most stringent 3^rd party verification organization to verify to consumers that their mattresses are American made from start to finish.

Westlake Village, CA, March 27^th, 2012 Relief-Mart, Inc., makers of Sleep and comfort products have turned to the prestigious and most stringent independent organization for verifying the origins of their products called Made In U.S.A Certified http://usa-c.com/.   According to Dr. Rick Swartzburg, D.C., the head of product development for Relief-Mart, Inc., “it is great to finally be able to have a truly independent 3^rd party looking out for the public’s best interest and forcing manufacturers to prove that they are really using U.S.A. made materials, as well as finishing a product in the United States.”  Dr. Swartzburg’s point about not just making a product in the United States, but actually using components that originate from the U.S. may actually be the single greatest cause of confusion in the marketplace.  With more stringent standards than many other countries, a product is really the sum of its parts and in some cases most, if not all of those parts, may come from other countries.  Dr. Swartzburg goes on to state that “we extensively tested components from China, such as memory foam, and found it to be lower in quality and durability when compared to its U.S. produced counterparts.”  As concerns mount from defective and dangerous products that come from overseas countries with little or no regulations, stating that a product is Made In The U.S.A. has much more meaning than just national pride.  However, as Relief-Mart’s head product consultant and product developer, Dr. Swartzburg is proud of the fact that they only useU.S.A. made components in their mattresses.  “It feels good to know that we are creating more jobs and helping to revive the lost art of fine craftsmanship in the bedding business”

For over 10 years, Relief-Mart, Inc. has been producing and distributing mattresses 100% made in the U.S.A. such as the Tri-Pedic, Soft-Pedic, Fibro-Pedic and Memory Zone found at www.Selectabed.com, as well their Tempflow line of no V.O.C. Biogreen memory foam mattresses found at www.Tempflow.com.   “While practically every U.S. manufacturer was leaving the country, we were thinking of new ways to innovate and further our technology to keep a competitive edge while remaining in the United States,” adds Dr. Swartzburg.  With the cost of goods on the rise and countries like China producing goods at less than half the cost of American made counterparts, this may an increasingly more difficult task.  However, Dr. Swartzburg remains steadfast in his assertion that they are up for the challenge and continue to set the standards for quality and innovation for an industry that is virtually as important to the public as the water they drink.  “If you think about how many hours you spend in bed and how important sleep to your health and wellbeing, I see no reason why consumers should ever have to settle for less than 100% commitment towards excellence in producing the best quality mattress and that certainly includes using skilled U.S. labor and the best quality genuine U.S.A. materials.”  A sentiment that was reflected by Lawrence Davis, Editor of Splash Magazine, in his article Tempflow and Tempur-Pedic Review – What 35 hours Of Research  Uncovered.

Only time will tell whether consumers place enough demand on the marketplace for more 100% certified U.S.A. products, but with organizations like Made In U.S.A. Certified thriving in this new economy, it’s a good bet that this trend is here to stay.

F

LAKELAND, Fla. (March 14, 2012) – The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) Wednesday struck a blow toFlorida citrus growers by voting to revoke the anti-dumping order on certain Brazilian orange juice processors.

The ITC said removing the anti-dumping order would not materially harm the Florida citrus grower despite increased Brazilian production, declining U.S. consumption and rapidly escalating costs of production.

An anti-dumping order covering three major Brazilian orange juice processors – Cutrale Citrus Juice, Citrosuco Paulista and Louis Dreyfus – has been in place since 2006. Every five years, the United States conducts a “sunset review” to determine whether duties should remain in place on Brazilian OJ or be revoked, taking into consideration how that would impact the U.S. industry, including Florida growers.

The decision came after Florida Citrus Mutual (FCM) spent the past six months building a case against the Brazilians.

“Florida Citrus Mutual is extremely disappojnted with this decision and we will review next steps including an appeal,” said Michael W. Sparks, FCM’s executive VP/CEO. “Over the past five years Brazilian processors have continued to dump cheap product into the United States as their residual market and I cannot see any reason why they would stop, especially if the anti-dumping order goes away.”

Dumping is bad because it can drive domestic producers out of business while destabilizing world markets.U.S.firms can file an anti-dumping petition with the International Trade Commission, which investigate the matter.

If a domestic industry can prove foreign producers are selling product for less than “normal value,” including below the cost of production, then anti-dumping deposits can be imposed by the government.

The DOC annually reviews sales and if the dumping stops, the deposits are refunded. If the dumping continues then the company(s) forfeits the duties.  The order can be lifted when a company successfully completes three consecutive reviews without dumping.

For more information on dumping, please go to Mutual’s website at http://www.flcitrusmutual.com/industry-issues/trade/dumpingcase.aspx

The Florida citrus industry creates a $9 billion annual economic impact, employing nearly 76,000 people, and covering more than 550,000 acres. Founded in 1948 and currently representing nearly 8,000 grower members, Florida Citrus Mutual is the state’s largest citrus grower organization. For more information, visit www.flcitrusmutual.com.

ANE Universal Announces Made in USA Certification

Miami, FL., March 12, 2012— ANE Universal proudly announces their second year of Made in USA Certification for the company’s line of “Made in USA” nutritional supplements and diet aids.

ANE Universal’s mission is to formulate and distribute Vitamins, Nutritional Supplements, and Minerals (VSM) of high quality and excellent results to help improve and maintain the health and quality of life of their customers. ANE Universal is proud that their lines of products “Viality” and “SlimNow” are certified by Made in USA.

The Made in USA Certified seal promotes ANE Universal’s quality and commitment to manufacturing here in the U.S.A. and helps consumers readily identify both the “Viality” and “SlimNow” products as certifiably Made in USA. A large percentage of consumers are looking for products manufactured in the U.S.A., particularly when it comes to their Vitamins and Nutritional Supplements.

ANE Universal uses bilingual labels in English and Spanish, being 100% natural, having a selection of high-quality ingredients, and having a 100% satisfaction guaranteed, make them a prestigious American Manufacturing Company. ANE Universal consumers have the added assurance with the Made in USA Certified seal on “Viality” and “SlimNow” products lines that the Made in USA claim has been verified, tested and is true.

Made in USA Certified’s Co-Founder & President, Julie Reiser stated, “ANE Universal has shown an unwavering commitment to manufacturing nutritional supplements and diet aids in the U.S.A with the finest quality ingredients available domestically.  ANE Universal creates jobs and fuels our Nation’s economy proving that we can still Make it in America!”

About Made in USA Certified, Inc.

MADE IN USA CERTIFIED® is the only Registered “Made in USA Certified” Word Mark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Made in USA Certified is the leading non-partisan, independent third party, certification company for the “Made in USA”, “Product of USA” and “Service in USA”claims.  The USA-C™ Seals show that a company bearing these trust marks has gone through a rigorous supply chain audit to verify compliance with national standards.

Trust but Certify!

Contacts:
Made in USA Certified
Julie Reiser
561-279-2855

WINSTON-SALEM, NC   All-Things-Wood.com, a cabinet, deck and hardwood floor refinishing contractor in Winston-Salem, has received official notice that they are the first home improvement contractor in the nation to be MADE IN USA CERTIFIED in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission requirements.

Lee Brown, company Visioneer explains why they sought the recognition, “North Carolina lost 80,000 jobs to China in less than 10 years. Most of these were in the wood industries. So from the beginning our expressed values were to use both “Made in America” and child-safe GREEN products for hardwood refinishing.”

Qualifying for the MADE IN USA CERTIFIED® Seal signifies that products like wood finishes have gone through a proprietary and rigorous supply-chain audit and certification process to confirm compliance with U.S. laws and regulations in regards to the ‘Made in USA’.

“North Carolinians are worried about the quality, durability and child safety of foreign products being used in their homes”, explained Brown. “With this certification, we are now able to differentiate our remarkable services from every other contractor in the market, and at the same time give greater creditability to our skilled craftsmen and floor techs. North Carolinians now have a choice to have safe and superior products used in their home – while putting Americans back to work, fueling our American economy and aiding in the recovery of our economic system.”

Technicians working for All-Things-Wood.com have as much as 20+ years individual experience providing superior craftsmanship, and are committed to “BEST Products – BEST Practices – BETTER Value”. “Because we use “Made in USA” products, we have the confidence to offer product warranties that range from 2 to 15 years, something unprecedented in the flooring industry.”

Although additional costs are incurred to meet the stringent Made in USA regulations, a recent Gallup Poll found that 72% of Americans are paying heightened attention to the country of origin of the products they buy and nearly 94% of Americans would pay more for products made in the United States of America. Lee Brown added, “North Carolina home-owners, realtors and property managers want companies to adhere to strict US labor laws regarding employment of illegal workers, OSHA compliance, safety standards, sustainability and EPA environmental regulations, …and most of all, they want the guarantee of quality and durability best found in American made products.”

President of Made In USA, Inc., Julie Reiser stated, “All-Things-Wood.com is a shining example of how craftsmen in the United States can still reuse and refinish wood to restore the value, durability and beauty of wood floors, cabinets, doors, paneling, church furniture and decks. By using “Made in America” wood stains and finishes; All-Things-Wood is keeping ingenuity, innovation and the American Dream alive and well in this country. We are so proud to certify this family run and operated business that is employing Americans and fueling our national economy.”

All-Things-Wood.com is a member of the Piedmont Environmental Alliance and the Winston-Salem Home Builders Association.  To celebrate the “Made In USA” certification, All-Things-Wood will provide sandless refinishing for 99 Cents (7-Year Warranty) for the first 50 clients that call.

Made In USA Certificate for All-Things-Wood.com[Download]

Made in USA Certified’s USA-C Polo Team was filmed for a segment out at Bostwick Stables in Wellington, Florida for the History Channel’s new series tentatively titled “Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy” premiering in the third Quarter this year.

DELRAY BEACH, FL., (Business Wire) —  Made in USA Certified, USA-C Polo Team is featured in a segment for The History Channels new series “Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy” (the official working title) which is set to premier in the third Quarter. The series will feature “Blue Collar Comedy” star Larry The Cable Guy exploring the United States revealing bits of US history, while also immersing himself in the jobs, hobbies, and lifestyles of the locals that “celebrate the American experience.”

In one of the segments slated for the series, Larry explores Wellington, Florida home of The International Polo Club, Palm Beach (IPC) and the Museum of Polo & Hall of Fame. Larry recently was filmed at the Bostwick Family Stables in Wellington and is featured learning how to play the game of Polo against theMade in USA Certified, USA-C Polo Team.

Made in USA Certified, USA-C Polo Team is a perfect partner for the “Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy” series as the company is the leader in independent third party assurance verification for genuine “Made in USA” products and services.  Made in USA Certified is a strong advocate for US Business, US Manufacturing and the American workforce which is most definitely part of the whole American Experience.

About Made in USA Certified, Inc.(www.usa-c.com)

Made in USA Certified, Inc. is the leader in independent third party assurance verification for genuine “Made in USA” products and services. Our Seal of Certification assures the consumer that the “Made in USA” or “Product of USA” claim is true– keeping you and your family safe, giving consumers peace of mind and helping to support and promote products and services Made in USA, one factory, one business at a time.
Trust but Certify! ™

Company contacts:
Made in USA Certified
Julie Reiser President | Co-Founder
561-279-2855
julie@usa-c.com

Premieres Tuesday, Feb. 8 at 9/8c Polo veteran Rick Bostwick lets Larry in on the perils of playing polo both to your body and your bank account.

History Channel Trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNhoYbmbXvw

ABC WORLD NEWS with DIANE SAWYER http://abcn.ws/xLZNAh

BY ENJOLI FRANCIS Feb. 7, 2012

This Valentine’s Day, rather than head over to a neighborhood store for the usual cards, candy and stuffed animals, consider purchasing gifts that show you’re gung-ho about your loved ones AND your country.

“It is very important right now for us to fuel our own economy,” said Julie Reiser, president of Made in USA Certified. “The right choice is to purchase ‘made in the U.S.A.’ It’s a powerful way to create a lot of jobs here.”

The National Retail Federation says that American shoppers are expected to spend an average of $126 on their loved ones this year, an increase of 8.5 percent from last year and the highest level of Valentine’s Day purchasing in the 10-year history of the group’s survey.

Reiser encouraged consumers to put that money to good use by supporting small and mid-size U.S. businesses.

If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

From unique jewelry to teddy bears and chocolates, here is a gift guide to help you find something from the heart — and the U.S.

“It really is a movement for change,” Reiser said. “It’s something that every single person can do at every level of income. … It’s mindful, meaningful. That’s what Valentine’s Day is all about.”

BBSweets

BBSweets Cookies

We found Brooke Bertelle’s BBSweets treats on Etsy but she now has a website.

While a student in a baking and pastry program at Johnson and Wales, Bertelle of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., made these cookies to raise money for the Haiti relief project.

The business – BBSweets – quickly took off after people began asking her to make more.

It takes her a half-day to make 30 to 50 cookies and she works alone. They come individually wrapped and shipping takes three to five days. Customers can also ask her to create other designs.

Price: $3.75 for one; $55 for a dozen.

Courtesy Hanky Panky

Hanky Panky

If you don’t know about the Hanky Panky handshake, CEO Lida Orzeck says you need to get on board.

She and friend Gale Epstein started Hanky Panky 35 years ago, after Epstein sent Orzeck a white-and-gray embroidered bra and bikini set made from handkerchiefs.

Now the two have been coined “the Steve Jobs and Steve Wosniak of thongs.” Their thongs are the company’s most popular style — and can also be personalized to say just about anything.

All of their intimate apparel is made in and around New York City and can be found in high-end department stores like Nordstrom, in specialty stores nationwide and online.

This Valentine’s Day, the company is offering its thongs rolled up to look like a rose. They can be purchased in singles for $25 and as a bouquet of six or 12. And for the risque clientele, the company also offers an aftermidnight line that includes open bras, teddies, boy shorts and garter belts.

Price: Polka-Dot Heart Box with three low-rise thongs, $49; for more, check website.

Steel Petal Press

Steel Petal Press Greeting Cards

Shayna Norwood, the designer and printer of Steel Petal Press, started creating her cards in Chicago in 2008 when she was a full-time graduate student.

She uses an 1800s letterpress, which she said was an old style of printing that’s starting to see a revival.

Norwood mixes the ink by hand, inks the press and trims, folds and packages the cards by hand. She even uses reclaimed paper made from a textile factory’s leftover cotton scraps. Though she has a few interns, she usually works alone.

The “You’re My Favorite” card is a staple through the year but is very popular for Valentine’s Day. It’s blank on the inside.

Price: $3.50 to $4.50 for one; discount for six cards. Find her on Etsy.

VincaUSA.com

Vinca Jewelry

Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend but Vinca‘s “diamond” earrings are the cheapest in the world and awesome.

In Austin, Texas, designer Amanda DiMova’s company — started in 2006 — is named for the vinca, a little, five-petal flower.

She uses leather scraps, sterling silver, acrylic and exotic and fancy woods to create earrings, rings, necklaces and hair accessories. She even has earrings for little girls. Though DiMova uses assistants at times, she usually works alone.

The walnut animal earrings are really popular as are her wooden “diamond” earrings. But the “Love Keys” necklace and hoop earrings are one of a kind.

Price: Depends on pieces; check website.

The Vermont Teddy Bear Co.

Vermont Teddy Bear Co.

If you can’t be with the one you love on Valentine’s Day, let this little guy (or gal — totally up to you) be the perfect substitute.

The Vermont Teddy Bear Co. was founded in 1981 by a father who was surprised to discover that all of the toys his son played with bore foreign labels. He started sewing bears in his house and selling them on the street and Vermont Teddy Bear was born.

Though it takes 14 minutes to make each bear, there are 15 steps to the process including being cut, stuffed and sewn. Wendy Duval, the public relations and communications manager, called the bears “an American icon.” Like the one shown, the bears can be personalized and here’s some good news for the procrastinators.

Customers can order as late as 8 p.m. Feb. 13 in order for their bear to arrive the following day.

Price: Check website.

Michael Dunning/Getty Images

All American Wineries

This holiday, Bob Hodge of All American Wineries suggests you skip the champagne and go for a domestic bubbly.

“For Valentine’s Day, sparkling wine is always a wonderful experience, sort of like red roses,” he said.

Hodge’s website All American Wineries keeps track of the more than 6,000 wineries in the U.S. Every state has at least one. He suggested Mumm Napa or a sparkling wine from the Biltmore Estate, Childress Vineyards, Chateau Frank, Swedish Hill or Domain Ste Michelle.

“Sparkling wines will go with anything,” Hodge said. “Steak and salmon are my two favorite meals. It makes any meal that much more elegant.”

And to create Valentine’s Day morning mimosas, toss in a splash of orange juice from Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Co. The juice is U.S. certified and only uses fresh oranges from Florida.

Bissinger’s

Bissinger’s

A favorite of actress Lauren Bacall — she really likes the bear claws — and Louis XIV — we’re talking the French king, not the band — this St. Louis, Mo.-based company sells its chocolates and gourmet candies all over the country.

Bissinger’s makes its chocolates and marshmallows by hand and uses high-quality cocoa beans.

From the Valentine Petit Fours and Wine Grapes infused with Shiraz and covered in dark chocolate to the Signature Valentine’s Day Collection and Marshmallow Hearts, there is a treat for everyone.

There are stores in Edina, Wis., and St. Louis. And this Valentine’s Day, the company is pushing what communications manager Amanda Evans called “the Maryland Plaza-Bissinger’s Experience,” which marries chocolates and other desserts with wine for a real treat.

Price: Check website.

Courtesy of Black Halo

Black Halo

This Valentine’s Day, wrap those just-bought Hanky Panky intimates — and yourself — in a sexy, comfortable sheath from Black Halo‘s Jackie O line.

For nearly 10 years, Laurel Berman’s company has brought the L.A. look to the masses — and kept its business in the United States.

Black Halo’s pieces — like the “Dame” sheath shown above and the well-known Jackie O line — marry sexy and casual for a style that transitions easily from work to night on the town.

Berman’s dresses have been seen on Heidi Klum, Tyra Banks and Adriana Lima. Black Halo is offering 15 percent off online plus free shipping through Feb. 8. Its pieces can also be purchased at Bloomingdale’s and Neiman Marcus and on Shopbop.com

Price: Check website.

http://abcn.ws/xLZNAh

San Leon, Texas (PRWEB) February 07, 2012

Motivated by its widespread success in Texas, where the margarita is practically the state drink, the American rum and agave distiller Railean has rejuvenated its website and enhanced its product line for 2012. The enhancements are part of an overall branding effort led by Houston-based Woodlands Ad Agency, which designs custom websites, builds brands, and leads many online marketing campaigns.

The new website design features detailed information about the RAILEAN product line, which currently includes four rum labels and two agave labels. Visitors can access informative articles about the American rum industry and delectable food and drink recipes, from the fresh and fruity to those best suited for celebrating an incoming hurricane. While RAILEAN cannot sell its alcohol products online due to liquor laws, a variety of Railean pirate merchandise, including t-shirts, shot glasses, and branded materials are available for purchase.

In contrast to the mass-produced, imported products from the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Mexico that currently dominate the market, each Railean bottle is made in America using domestically produced sugarcane molasses from the Gulf Coast. Leading the first woman-owned, U.S.-certified rum and agave distillery, Kelly Railean is revolutionizing the American market. Since 2005, she has introduced the refreshingly tropical Texas White, the rich Reserve XO and the perfectly balanced Spiced Rum, all of which are bottled by hand. Railean also offers the earthy Small Cask Reserve, a handcrafted rum that rates in the upper 90s.

In 2010, the rapidly growing business expanded to include the high quality El Perico Silver. This smooth liquor, which is made from 100% blue agave nectar cultivated in Jalisco, rivals the best top-shelf tequila brands produced in Mexico. A smooth Reposado American agave spirit is scheduled for release in Spring 2012.

“We are thrilled with the new direction RAILEAN is heading in,” says Kelly Railean, proprietor and master distiller. “In 2011, RAILEAN became the only distiller of rum and agave to achieve the stringent Made in the USA® Certified designation by the Federal Trade Commission. Our new website and product offerings are the jumpstart we need to establish Railean American rum and American agave spirits as this nation’s preeminent all American brand.”

About Railean Distillers® http://www.railean.com
Exclusively fermented, distilled and bottled by RAILEAN Distillers, LLC, at the Eagle Point Distillery in San Leon, Texas, RAILEAN handcrafts the only Made in the USA Certified® rum and agave spirits. This artisan distiller produces everything from scratch using domestic raw materials. Educational and tasting tours are available to the public.

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