Woody Auction will Offer The Hite Collection of Wave Crest, R.S. Prussia, American Brilliant Cut Glass, more on April 26

Douglass, KS, USA, April 3, 2025 -- The private collection of Grady and Annette Hite of North Carolina – over 1,000 pieces of Wave Crest, American Brilliant Cut Glass, art pottery, R.S. Prussia and other fine items – will come up for bid in an auction on Saturday, April 26th, starting at 9:30am Central time by Woody Auction, online (via LiveAuctioneers.com) and live in the Woody auction hall.

“We’ve had the pleasure of knowing the Hites for decades and it is our sincere honor to auction their collection,” said Jason Woody of Woody Auction. “Their collection is so vast that we’re auctioning it in two days – Friday, April 25th in an online-only setting, and Saturday, April 26th, in-person and online.” The auction hall is located at 130 East Third Street in Douglass, Kansas.

The Hites have been a part of the antique community for many decades and have been fortunate enough to become knowledgeable and excited with the prospect of hunting down their next piece. Grady and Annette have asked Woody Auction to sell this collection at public auction without reserve, the way they enjoyed buying many of their items. Everyone is invited to attend.

There are several fine items that could end up with top lot honors. Lot #132, for example, is a lovely dresser box with the Wave Crest mark, in sea foam mold and boasting an extremely rare goldfish décor. The box, with gilt metal feet, comes with a key and should bring $4,000-$7,000.

Lot #21 is a scarce plated amberina art glass bowl by New England Glass showing exceptional color, selling with a silverplate frame measuring 13 ½ inches by 8 ½ inches by 8 inches, marked Tufts #128. The frame isn’t original to the bowl but displays it nicely. Estimate: $3,000-$6,000

Lot #36 is a round, unmarked Wave Crest plaque in a scroll mold and having a gorgeous hand-painted Native American Chief décor. The 10-inch plaque, white with a burgundy border, is nicely mounted in a 12 ½ inch by 10 ¼ inch ornate gilt metal frame. Estimate: $2,500-$5,000

Lot #257 is an unmarked Art Pottery umbrella stand with a hand-painted portrait of a Native American brave, 21 ¾ inches by 11 ½ inches. It has a beautiful brown standard glaze and is attributed to Roseville/Weller. The rim was professionally repaired. Estimate: $2,000-$4,000

Lot #67 is an American Brilliant Cut Glass green cut to clear cylinder vase in the Montrose pattern by Dorflinger, 10 ¼ inches tall with a hobstar cut base. It’s the same vase as featured in The Yard Long Print in lot #68. Estimate: $2,000-$3,000

Lot #154 is a late 19th century three-dimensional Art Nouveau polychrome enamel vase marked Volkstedt, 18 ¼ inches tall, in the form of a huge iris with a young woman holding a chamberstick, exquisite in detail. Estimate: $1,500-$3,000

Lot #213 is a great example of a Royal Flemish art glass biscuit jar, #3931, marked P.M.C. (Pairpoint / Mt. Washington), 5 ¾ inches by 7 ¼ inches, having colorful segmented sections with a crest of a rampant lion, silverplate lid and ball. Estimate: $1.500-$2,500

Lot #353 is an American Brilliant Cut Glass salad set in the Trellis pattern attributed to J. Hoare, with a large hobstar center. The set includes a 4 ¼ inch by 11 inch bowl and underplate and a pattern matched 11-inch fork and spoon. Estimate: $1,000-$3,000

There are furniture items in the auction, which Woody Auction cannot ship and must be picked up in person in Douglass, or shipped via a professional shipper by Friday, May 9th. Woody Auction has a shipper list that folks can review for research purposes. A couple of furniture pieces up for bid include the following:

 - An Italian 19th century Florentine parlor table having a gilt wood base with raised pedestal and featuring exceptional floral designs with shell and coral highlights, professional wood restoration, exceptional pietra dura (inlaid precious and semi-precious stones) in fabulous condition, and weighing 40 pounds. Estimate: $2,000-$4,000

- A circa 1924 wrought iron console table with black marble top by Oscar Bach, with a hand-wrought iron frame with claw feet, serpent designs and masks, red tin backing, and exhibiting masterful quality, weighing nearly 200 pounds. Estimate: $2,000-$4,000

A preview for the April 26th auction will be held on Friday, April 25th, from 1-5 pm Central time, in the Woody Auction auction hall. There is no buyer’s premium for those in attendance (when paying with cash or check) and no sales tax will be collected from bidders present at the auction, as this is a single consignor auction.

Here is a link to the auction catalog on LiveAuctioneers.com: https://www.liveauctioneers.com/catalog/367544_4-26-2025-grady-and-annette-hite-collection/

Bidders should register 48 hours in advance. Absentee bids will require a written statement indicating the amount of the bid. The deadline is noon on Thursday, April 24th. Absentee bids will be charged a buyer’s premium of 15 percent of the selling price + shipping (10 percent if paying by cash or check). Bids will be presented same as if present in-person.

Telephone bidding is available for lots with a low estimate of $1,000 or greater (low estimates can be found on LiveAuctioneers.com). Email your phone bid list to info@woodyauction.com by noon on Wednesday, April 23rd. Include your name, address, primary phone number and backup phone number. You’ll be notified to confirm receipt of your bid list.

“We do our best to keep shipping costs as low as possible while wrapping everything securely to arrive at your home in excellent condition,” Mr. Woody said. “We pass our UPS discount on to our clients.”

Woody Auction has attempted to call any flaws that can affect the value of an item, but final determination is left to the buyer. Common nicks and scratches have not been called.

As for area lodging, Woody Auction has several suggestions: the Comfort Inn in Augusta, Kan.: 316-260-3006 (mention Woody Auction for a single queen or king room rate of $79 plus tax when booked directly with them); Holiday Inn Express, Andover, Kan.: 316-733-8833; and the Hampton Inn, Derby, Kan.: 316-425-7900. All three are located within a 15-20-minute drive of the Woody auction hall.

To learn more about Woody Auction and the sale of the Grady and Annette Hite collection on Saturday, April 26th, online and live at the Douglass auction gallery starting at 9:30am Central time (with an automated online-only auction slated for April 25th, starting at 8am Central time), please visit www.woodyauction.com. Updates are posted often.

About Woody Auction:

Woody Auction is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item, an estate or collection, you may call (316) 747-2694; or, send an email to info@woodyauction.com. To learn more about Woody Auction please visit www.woodyauction.com. Updates are posted often.

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Harvard MBA and Certified Mindfulness Teacher Timothy Swords Launches Mindful Leadership Executive Coaching

San Francisco, CA, April 3, 2025 -- Timothy Swords, an executive coach and certified mindfulness meditation teacher, recently launched Mindful Leadership Executive Coaching. This new venture integrates mindfulness practices with traditional corporate executive coaching to help C-Suite executives, senior leaders and entrepreneurs develop self-awareness, emotional resilience, and authentic leadership.

“The business world requires a level of toughness to succeed. The reality is that even in the C-Suite, we’re human beings with thoughts, feelings and personal lives that can impact how you perform and lead,” said Swords, a Harvard MBA and financial services executive and management consultant for more than three decades. “By integrating mindfulness into leadership coaching, I help executives strengthen emotional intelligence to better align their actions with their core values -- which results in leading with greater impact.”

Working in-person and virtually, Swords has worked with clients in the Bay Area, as well as executives in Boston, Chicago, Houston, New York and Phoenix. 

Drawing on his experience as a senior executive with Fidelity Investments, PwC, and MUFG UnionBank, and consultant to clients including Merck, Lam Research and Cisco, Swords combines traditional corporate executive coaching methodologies with scientifically proven mindfulness practices. This highly effective approach helps clients navigate the complexities of leadership with greater clarity, confidence, and purpose.

“The best leaders don’t just manage strategy—they cultivate presence, self-awareness, and resilience,” said Swords, who became a certified mindfulness meditation teacher in 2012 and has trained under such renowned teachers as Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, Jon Kabat-Zinn, and Trudy Goodman.

Beyond teaching mindfulness meditations and techniques, Swords touts the science behind mindfulness practice in helping practitioners make lasting change, both behaviorally in the physiology of your brain. That science is backed up by researchers at Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital and numerous other institutions.

“One of those studies found that participants who completed an eight-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program had increased concentrations of gray matter in several brain areas, including the hippocampus, which is important for learning, memory, and emotional regulation,” said Swords. “In other words, over a two-month period, participants learned a new way to respond, and it altered their brain’s physiology accordingly. That’s a figurative and literal change in how you respond in less than two full months.”

Mindful Leadership Executive Coaching offers a range of customized coaching services, including:

- Executive Coaching – One-on-one coaching to enhance leadership effectiveness, decision-making, and personal growth.

- Leadership Team Development – Coaching programs to strengthen collaboration, trust, and high-performance teamwork.

- Leadership Assessments – Data-driven evaluations, including Korn Ferry 360 assessments, to unlock leadership potential.

- Mindfulness Training for Leaders – Workshops and guided mindfulness exercises designed to reduce stress and improve focus.

Swords' unique background in finance, strategy, and leadership consulting—combined with his deep expertise in mindfulness meditation—positions him as a trusted resource for executives seeking sustainable leadership growth.

Executives interested in exploring mindful leadership coaching can schedule an introductory session by visiting www.mindfulleadership-coaching.com.

About Mindful Leadership Executive Coaching:

Mindful Leadership Executive Coaching helps business leaders cultivate clarity, resilience, and purpose by integrating mindfulness techniques with executive coaching strategies. The firm’s approach is rooted in the belief that true leadership transformation begins with self-awareness and that leaders who align with their core values create lasting impact.

Founded by Timothy Swords, a Harvard MBA, Mindful Leadership Executive Coaching brings together his 30+ years of leadership experience as a senior executive, board advisor, and leadership consultant as well as his expertise as a certified mindfulness meditation teacher—which includes more than 2,000 hours of practice and training under renowned teachers including Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, Jon Kabat-Zinn, and Trudy Goodman. His unique combination of corporate leadership expertise and mindfulness training enables him to help executives navigate high-pressure environments with greater emotional intelligence and strategic clarity. Executives interested in exploring mindful leadership coaching can schedule an introductory session by visiting www.MindfulLeadership-Coaching.com.

Media Contact:

Timothy Swords

415-606-6441

timothy@mindfulleadership-coaching.com

http://www.MindfulLeadership-Coaching.com

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Kintetsu International Launches Much Anticipated Online Hotel Booking Platform

New York, NY, March 31, 2025 -- Kintetsu International Express, (U.S.A.), Inc., a leading provider of travel management services, today announced the launch of its innovative new online booking tool, Kintetsu Hotel Planner, designed to give consumers online access to hotel reservations in the U.S. and all over the world, including KIE’s discounted hotel rates.

Since its inception in 1974, KIE has been committed to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. This milestone marks a momentous journey of growth and success as KIE seeks to bring its products and services to a wider audience. KIE is the only U.S. based travel management company to make internal private hotel rates accessible to the general public.

“One of KIE’s marquee products is our signature KIE Preferred Hotel Program. We partner with major hotel brands and individual properties to offer amazing discounts and amenities to our corporate customers,” explained William Sarcona, Director of KIE’s Preferred Hotel Program. Furthermore, he added, “It just made sense to find a vendor we could partner with to allow public access to the same great rates our corporate clients utilize every day.”

Innovation has been at the heart of KIE's growth, and the company has long sought an online portal that allows visitors to KIE’s website to take advantage of its low hotel rates. Partnering with HotelPlanners, one of the world’s leading travel technology companies in the hotel sector, made our dream a reality. HotelPlanners were able to integrate our rates effortlessly within their platform. Users can be confident knowing they are viewing the most up-to-date availability and pricing information, ensuring a seamless booking process.

Designed for ease of use, the platform’s intuitive interface makes it effortless for users to navigate and find exactly what they are looking for. KIE HotelPlanner’s secure payment system ensures that users can book with confidence.

The implementation of this new site was a challenge, Mr. Sarcona added, “We needed to find a solution where we could pull our discounted hotel rates from our GDS internal computer system into a public platform, and we finally did. It was a challenging and an ambitious endeavor, but most definitely worth it.”

About KIE:

Kintetsu International is among the largest travel management companies in the world. It maintains a full-service global agency with branches in the U.S. and Japan. Travel Weekly Magazine consistently ranks KIE in the top 50 of all U.S. travel agencies.

KIE is a leader in travel management, whose expertise is founded on its vast experiences, global network resources, and innovative solutions. KIE has positioned itself as the premier Japanese TMC in the U.S.

For more information, visit us at www.kintetsu.com or https://kintetsu.hotelplanner.com

About Hotelplanner.com:

HotelPlanner is a leading travel technology company and hotel booking platform that combines proprietary artificial intelligence and a 24/7 global gig-based reservations and customer service network. HotelPlanner is one of the world's leading providers of individual, group, and corporate travel bookings. Founded in 2003, HotelPlanner has enduring partnerships with the world's largest online travel agencies, well-known global hotel chains, and individual hotels.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

William Sarcona

Director of Corporate Planning & KIE Hotel Program

KIE / Kintetsu International Express

500 7th Avenue Suite 14126A

New York, N.Y. 10018

212-259-9722

William.Sarcona@kintetsu.com

http://www.kintetsu.com

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Illinois Department on Aging Honors Author Charlene Wexler with Induction to Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame

Chicago, IL, March 29, 2025 -- The Illinois Department on Aging recently honored author Charlene Wexler of Richmond, IL, as a 2024 Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame inductee.

Mary Killough, acting director of the Illinois Department on Aging, inducted Wexler into the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame and presented her with an award representing that induction on Feb. 21, 2025, in the Fox Lake, IL, office of State Representative Tom Weber (R-64th).

“I’m pleased to honor Charlene Wexler with induction into the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame,” Killough said at the presentation. “Since the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame was created by the Illinois General Assembly in 1994 to honor Illinois residents ages 65 and older for their personal achievements, only about 150 people have been inducted, and we are pleased to have Char join them.

“The Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame honors outstanding older adults who have made and continue to make significant contributions to their communities,” Killough added.

“I’m honored to have this presentation and induction in my district office,” Rep. Weber said.

Wexler was inducted in the arts, entertainment, and sports category and was chosen by a panel of judges who found her commitment towards arts, entertainment, and sports to be beyond compare and believed that she was the best nominee for this category, according to a statement from the Illinois Department on Aging.

Rep. Weber also introduced, and the Illinois General Assembly passed, House Resolution 141 on Feb. 19 congratulating Wexler on being inducted into the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame “for her devotion to the art of writing.”

At the induction, Rep. Weber read the full text of the resolution, which honored Wexler for her novels Lori, Farewell to South Shore, Murder Across the Ocean, and Murder on Skid Row, and her collections of short stories and essays Elephants in the Room and Milk and Oranges.

Rep. Weber noted that Wexler’s writings also have appeared in North Shore Magazine and other periodicals, and that Wexler has earned several awards for her writing including a Global Book Award, Four Seasons Book Award, and Apex Awards.

Rep. Weber’s resolution also noted Wexler’s “illustrious and successful career as an author.”

For the full text of the resolution, log on to https://legiscan.com/IL/text/HR0141/2025.

Farewell to South Shore, Lori, Murder Across the Ocean, and Murder on Skid Row are published by Speaking Volumes and are available at https://speakingvolumes.mybigcommerce.com/print-books/.

“I’m extremely grateful to Mary Killough, acting director of the Illinois Department on Aging; Purnell Borders, the department’s outreach coordinator; Rep. Weber; Sharon Langlotz Johnson; and my family and friends for making this a truly unique event,” Wexler said. “My induction shows that writers should follow their dreams. You can do it, and it’s never too late.”

The Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame also honors Illinois residents for noteworthy contributions in three other categories: community service, education, and labor. For more information, log on to https://ilaging.illinois.gov/resources/newspublicationsandreports/halloffame.html.

For more on Wexler and her books, log on  to https://charlenewexler.com/biography-2/. For more on the Illinois Department on Aging, log on to https://ilaging.illinois.gov/. For more on Rep. Weber, log on to https://repweber.com/.

Media Contact:

William S. Bike

Central Park Communications

ANB Communications

6160 W. 60th St.

Chicago, IL 60638

773-229-0024

anbcommunications@yahoo.com

http://www.centralparkcommunications.com

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The Contents of The Stately Lauri Mundi Mansion Home in Aberdeen, Mississippi will be Auctioned on Saturday, April 12th

Aberdeen, MS, USA, March 29, 2025 -- The entire contents of the stately mansion home in Aberdeen known as Lauri Mundi will be sold at auction on Saturday, April 12th, beginning at 10am Central time, by Stevens Auction Company, based in Aberdeen. The sale will be conducted on-site, on the grounds of Lauri Mundi, located at 309 South Matubba Street. The home itself is also for sale.

“Jim and Debby Lamping have gathered a massive collection of fine items over the past 25 years, from all over the Eastern half of the United States,” said Dwight Stevens, the owner of Stevens Auction Company. He added, “Now, due to ill health, the couple has decided to sell it all.” The mansion sits hidden in the middle of Aberdeen, on 23 acres of manicured grounds.

The items in Lauri Mundi that are due to be sold are as impressive as the mansion home itself, starting with a spectacular rosewood three-quarter rococo plantation bed by Mallard with original mosquito nets and lovely red fabric curtains, 10 feet 11 inches tall (estimate: $20,000-$35,000): and a great Mallard rosewood rococo full king-size plantation bed (estimate: $15,000-$25,000).

In addition, a four-poster Empire plantation king-size bed with a brand-new mattress, 8 feet 8 inches tall, has an estimate of $5,000-$8,000. For the outdoors, there is a fantastic two-piece bronze garden fountain from a New Orleans Garden District home, with life-size Grecian ladies standing at the base, 11 feet 2 inches tall and 52 inches in diameter (estimate: $15,000-$25,000).

Fine furniture pieces produced by some of America’s finest 19th century cabinetmakers will also be offered. A few examples are as follows:

- A four-piece Meeks parlor set in the Stanton Hall pattern, with pink upholstery (a 65-inch-long sofa, two armchairs and one side chair) (estimate: $7,000-$10,000).

- A Meeks marble-top rosewood center table with fine open carvings, 29 inches tall by 47 inches long and 30 inches in diameter (estimate: $1,500-$2,500).

- A rosewood Victorian two-door bookcase with beautiful pierced carved crown and two drawers in the base, in excellent condition, 9 feet 2 inches tall by 58 inches wide (estimate: $1,500-$2,500).

- A gorgeous Belter side chair in the Rosalie pattern without grapes, with blue upholstery. This is lot #81; it matches the sofa that is lot #80 (estimate: $800-$1,200).

Lighting will be led by a fabulous crystal chandelier with eight lights, 46 inches tall by 36 inches wide (estimate: $15,000-$25,000); a beautiful 20-light crystal chandelier by Waterford with lots of bells and hundreds of prisms, 32 inches by 54 inches (estimate: $15,000-$25,000); and a heavily polished brass five-light chandelier with prisms and etched shades, in great condition, 65 inches tall by 36 inches wide (estimate: $6,000-$8,000).

Lamps will feature a bronze astral lamp with original 9-inch prisms, converted from oil, 26 inches tall (estimate: $1,500-$2,000); a lovely astral lamp with a marble base, 29 inches tall (estimate: $1,000-$2,000); and an equally beautiful astral lamp with original prisms, 31 inches tall (estimate: $1,500-$2,000).

Mirrors will include an ornate gold leaf wall mirror with swans with a painting on porcelain in the top crown, a true antique measuring 71 inches tall by 53 inches wide (estimate: $4,000-$6,000); and a stunning Victorian pier mirror with gold paint and a white marble base, 11 feet tall by 42 inches wide (estimate: $3,500-$5,000).

Decorative accessories will be plentiful, to include a beautiful old antique Sevres capped urn, 34 inches tall and signed (estimate: $2,500-$3,500); and a rare and striking blue glass epergne with one trumpet and four baskets, 34 inches tall (estimate: $800-$1,500).

To view the items in the auction, an open house preview has been scheduled for Friday, April 11th, from 10am to 6pm Central time. New pictures are continually being added to the Stevens website (www.stevensauction.com), so interested parties are encouraged to check back often for new additions and further information. Online bidding will be provided by LiveAuctioneers.com.

Terms of payment are all major credit cards or pre-approved business or personal checks (with proper ID), or wire transfer. A 15 percent buyer’s premium will be applied to all purchases, with an extra 3 percent processing fee for credit cards. A sales tax will be charged as well, except for those bidders with a valid state resale number. Light refreshments will be served on auction day.

Lauri Mundi has its original brick kitchen, original smoke house and carriage house with barn. It also has a stocked pond surrounded by 200-year-old trees, along with iron entrance gates that make it the perfect paradise. It has been totally renovated with a new roof, central heating and air, new plumbing and new bathrooms, a freshly painted exterior and numerous other upgrades.

Anyone interested in purchasing Lauri Mundi, the mansion home, is encouraged to get in touch with Dick Leike, the founder of Cyre-Leike Realty and agent in charge of the property. He can be reached by calling 901-486-2070.

To learn more about Stevens Auction Company and the on-site auction slated for Saturday, April 12th at 10 am Central, visit www.stevensauction.com.

About Stevens Auction Company:

Stevens Auction Company is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, you may call them directly, at (662) 369-2200; or, you can e-mail them at stevensauction@bellsouth.net. To learn more about Stevens Auction Company, please visit www.stevensauction.com.

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Two Rare and Beautiful Wedgwood Vases Marked Fairyland Lustre Combine for $130,500 at Woody Auction, March 22nd

Douglass, KS, USA, March 29, 2025 -- Two Wedgwood vases marked Fairyland Lustre, one in the King Dragon pattern and the other in the Ghostly Woods pattern, brought a combined $130,500 at an Antique Auction held March 22nd by Woody Auction, online (at LiveAuctioneers.com) and live in the Douglass, Kansas auction hall. In all, 366 highly collectible lots crossed the auction block. 

The event showcased the outstanding collections of Eleanor Eulau of California; Maurine and the late Al Edmond of Iowa; and Paul Pellett. 

"The results can be surprising, but not unexpected, when talking about the quality and variety that was offered in this particular auction,” said Jason Woody of Woody Auction, who added, “The large online participation of over one thousand registered bidders was a good indication that just the right combination of items had been brought together for an unreserved auction." 

The catalog was packed with wonderful examples of French Cameo, English Cameo, cut glass, alexandrite, amberina, KPM porcelains, satin glass, Quezal, Steuben, Durand, plated amberina, pink agata, Sevres, R.S. Prussia, Duffner & Kimberly, Tiffany & Co., decorated Burmese, Loetz, Mettlach, furniture, Lalique, Royal Flemish, Napoli, Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre and more. 

The Wedgwood vase marked Fairyland Lustre #Z4968 in the Dragon King pattern was designed by Daisy Makeig-Jones and boasted an exceptional cobalt blue ground with flawless gold stencil highlights. It had the same scene and shape as shown in the book Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre by Una Des Fontaines. The vase blasted through its $20,000 high estimate to gavel for $87,500. 

The winning bidder of the vase began researching Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre after the death of his friend Paul Pellet, who had been the owner prior to his death in 2024. He became intrigued with it and wanted to support the estate by purchasing some items. There were four bidders vying for the vase (one in-person and three phone bidders). Bidding on the item took 4.5 minutes. 

It was easily the top lot of the auction, being as it was one of the rarest and most desirable vases of its kind. The runner-up slot went to the vase marked Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre #Z4968 in the rare Ghostly Woods pattern. Also designed by Daisy Makeig-Jones and standing 13 ¾ inches tall, the vase showed exceptional colors and realized $43,000 against a high estimate of $5,000. 

The winning phone bidder for that vase (a different person) was a collector of Wedgwood Fairyland and wanted to add the item to his collection. What made the vase so desirable was the highly sought after Ghostly Woods pattern, plus the fact that the scene on the vase was almost “occult-like” and likely did not appeal to the masses when it was created. Thus, fewer of them were made and sold. 

An art glass toothpick holder signed Daum Nancy, 2 inches by 1 ¼ inches, having a frosted pink ground with rare penguins on ice and a French Cameo and enamel décor, came into the sale with a modest pre-sale estimate of $3,000-$5,000, but savvy bidders pushed the final price to $13,000. 

An extremely rare Webb English Cameo art glass laydown perfume in the figure of a fish with a silver tail screw-off cap, beautiful blue with detailed white cameo cutback overlay, marked RD#15711, had a pre-sale estimate of $2,000-$4,000, but the final selling price was $11,000. 

A Malfrey pot marked Wedgwood Fairyland Lustre, 7 ½ inches tall, with a flame lustre background and a white pagoda pattern on the lid’s interior, sold at just under estimate for $9,500. The pot, marked #Z5360, had a sycamore tree, fairy slide, feng hwang and bridge panels. 

A one-piece American Brilliant Cut Glass presentation punch bowl attributed to J. Hoare, for the “Bush Cup, Crescent City Jockey Club, New Orleans, February 11, 1905,” weighing nearly 22 pounds and having a pattern with hobstars, strawberry diamond and fan motif, brought $9,000. 

A bulbous French Cameo vase signed Galle in the Morning Glory pattern, 9 ½ inches tall, having a yellow ground with blue and green cameo cutback soufflé, sold within estimate for $7,000. 

A lovely form French Cameo and enamel art glass oval-shaped vase signed Daum Nancy, 9 ¾ inches tall, boasting a beautiful winter scene décor, made $7,000 against a $3,500 high estimate. 

A French Cameo and enamel art glass perfume bottle signed Daum Nancy, having a white and lavender ground with violet décor and a pattern matched stopper, 4 inches tall, rose to $4,750. 

A large (17 ¾ inches) French Cameo art glass vase signed Galle having a yellow ground with an amethyst/blue clematis design and a scalloped rim, fetched $4,750 on a high estimate of $1,500. 

About Woody Auction:

Woody Auction is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item, an estate or an entire collection, you may call (316) 747-2694; or, you can send them an email, to info@woodyauction.com. To learn more about Woody Auction, please visit www.woodyauction.com or www.liveauctioneers.com/woody-auction-llc.

Media Contact:

Jason Woody

Woody Auction, LLC

P.O. Box 618 / 130 E. 3rd St.

Douglass, KS 67039 USA

316-747-2694

info@woodyauction.com

http://www.woodyauction.com

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Cape Cod Dad Honors Fallen Son with Second Fundraising Tour of MLB Stadiums in 2025

Boston, MA and Eastham, MA, March 28, 2025 -- In 2024, Scott Yelle completed the tour of Major League Baseball stadiums he began with his late son Jackson. At each stop—18 in total--he dropped off a $1000 check for the MLB Nike Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI)program in each city. In April 2025, Scott will start a tour of the first 12 stadiums he and his son visited, making a donation from the Jackson Yelle Foundation at each stop. The first being at Fenway Park in Boston on April 12.

Jackson Yelle, a baseball player at Elon University in North Carolina, was struck by an impaired hit-and-run driver on April 30, 2023. He was 21. That same year, the Yelle family formed the Jackson Yelle Foundation, 501(c)3 non-profit organization, to put good into the world by giving to causes Jackson would care about.

“Jackson had a zest for life and baseball. Helping other young men and women grow through the game he loved is something he would endorse wholeheartedly,” said Scott Yelle, a sales and marketing consultant and charter boat skipper from Eastham, Massachusetts. “On April 12, we’ll kick off this year’s fundraising effort by sponsoring a workshop for Boston’s Nike RBI, which is overseen by the Red Sox Foundation. We will also be making a $7,000 donation to the Boston MLB Nike RBI. The Center for Healing and Justice Through Sport will be the main presenter at the workshop. After that, it’s a two-month odyssey to visit the stadiums Jackson and I first visited.”

The Nike RBI program supports the development of young men and women through baseball and softball. Since its inception, the Nike RBI program has served approximately two million young people. Many Nike RBI alumni have played in MLB, including Jackie Bradley, Jr. (most recently with the Kansas City Royals), Hunter Greene (Cincinnati Reds), Alek Thomas (Arizona Diamondbacks), and Dominic Smith (New York Yankees).

After Fenway Park, Yelle will attend and make $1,000 donations in 11 other MLB cities. Those visits include: Colorado (April 20); Oakland/Sacramento (April 22); San Francisco (April 24); San Diego (April 27); Houston (May 9); Washington DC (May 11); Baltimore (May 13); New York Mets (May 14); New York Yankees (May 16); Minnesota Twins (May 25; Cleveland (May 28). 

As part of the donation ceremony at each stadium, Scott Yelle will be part of the in-game experience. During last year’s tour, he was on the field and even threw out the first pitch in a few ballparks. For this year’s tour, Yelle will be wearing special Catch2Heal t-shirts.

Catch2Heal is an additional piece to the Jackson Yelle Foundation fundraising campaign. Inspired by the book A Year of Playing Catch by Ethan Bryan, Scott began a 365 playing-catch-every day journey on January 27, Jackson’s 23rd birthday. He will continue daily games of catch on the two-month tour, which will also include a stop at the legendary Field of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa and Nike RBI programs that aren’t affiliated with MLB clubs (there are 130 Nike RBI organizations worldwide). You can follow his catch journey at https://www.instagram.com/catch2heal/.

“It’s appropriate that we visit the baseball field made famous in the movie Field of Dreams as touring all 30 stadiums was our dream. It’s bittersweet that Jackson’s not here physically with us, but he’s definitely here in spirit,” said Yelle. “We welcome and invite friends, family, and baseball fans to visit me at the before the game for a catch or at the game. And if you can’t make it, you can follow the stadium tour on our website’s blog, Instagram and Facebook.”

To donate, visit the Foundation’s website at https://jacksonyelle.com/. Donations beyond the $12,000 will go towards the Jackson Yelle Family Foundation’s efforts to support causes that provide resources/financial support to help young people “live their best lives” #justlikejackson.

“We—my wife Andrea and daughter Lexi—can’t thank MLB, our wonderful Board of Directors, donors and everybody else who have been so supportive,” said Scott. “I can’t wait to our first stop at Fenway Park and get this thing started. Jackson would have loved it.”

In addition to making a donation via https://jacksonyelle.com/, you can make a check payable to “Jackson Yelle Foundation” and send to Jackson Yelle Family Foundation PO Box 86, North Eastham, MA 02651.

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Miller & Miller in Canada will Hold An Online-Only East Coast Canadiana & Folk Art Auction on Saturday, April 12th

New Hamburg, Ontario, Canada, March 26, 2025 -- A rare and important Merganser drake decoy by Captain Edwin Bachman, and original paintings by the acclaimed Nova Scotia folk artist Maud Lewis and Canadian painter Charles F. Comfort are a few of the expected top lots in Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.’s East Coast Canadiana & Folk Art auction scheduled for Saturday, April 12th.

The online-only auction, starting promptly at 9am Eastern time, will feature the collection of Chris Huntington, “arguably the most recognized name in the world of Canadiana folk art,” according to Ethan Miller of Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. In all, 305 lots will come up for bid, in categories that include Canadiana, folk art, textiles, art and decoys. Online bidding is via MillerandMillerAuctions.com and LiveAuctioneers.com.

The Merganser drake decoy by Nova Scotia carver Captain Edwin Bachman (1872-1914) is of stylish form, with a carved head featuring a prominent integral crest and carved eyes. It’s in the original paint, with some early second paint to the white areas and bill. The 8 ¼ inch tall decoy was probably made between 1890-1910 and carries a pre-auction estimate of $40,000-$60,000.

All estimates quoted in this report are in Canadian dollars.

The mixed media on beaverboard signed by folk art icon Maud Lewis (1903-1970) is titled Oxen in Winter. The painting is small in scale (11 ¾ inches by 14 inches) but the mighty oxen take up most of the space, quietly staring straight ahead. It’s a serial image that spans three decades and dates to 1969-1970, likely one of her last in the popular series. It should bring $15,000-$18,000.

The oil on canvas by Charles F. Comfort (1900-1994) depicts Lunenburg Harbour and is titled Emerald Sea, showing a fishing dory approaching the wharf and a rocky shoreline dotted with shingled houses and sheds. The work is signed and dated (“C. 1940”). It’s in very good condition and measures 20 inches by 26 inches (canvas, less the frame). It should realize $10,000-$15,000.

A painted carved wood sculpture by Collins Eisenhauer (Nova Scotia, 1898-1979) depicts a man in black clothes sitting on a brown stool carving a swan. The man's expression reflects his focus, as he firmly holds the swan by the neck while his other hand holds the knife. The 6-inch-tall piece, made circa 1975, is in untouched original condition and has an estimate of $6,000-$8,000.

An enamel on canvas painting by Joe Norris (Lower Prospect, Nova Scotia, 1924-1996), one of Canada’s most impressive artists, is a circa 1980 rendering titled Ships Offshore. The large, compelling and attractive painting, nicely housed in the original 36 inch by 54 ½ inch frame, is of a busy scene by the ocean's shore. It’s artist signed and has an estimate of $6,000-$8,000.

A pair of circa 1930-1940 Merganser decoys carved by Lindsey Levy (Nova Scotia, 1892-1980), in as-found, untouched condition and with the original paint, is expected to change hands for $4,000-$6,000. The drake is 6 ¼ inches tall, while the hen is 6 inches tall. This pair of decoys is illustrated in color in the book The Spirit of Nova Scotia by Richard Henning Field, on page 16.

A museum-quality crocheted side chair covered in jute and finished with colored yarn by Albert Lohnes (Nova Scotia, 1895-1977), one of only 16 known examples, depicts a Nova Scotia scene of a farmer with his oxen team, knitted on a blue background with a large red and white diamond on the seat and smaller red and white diamonds knitted on the apron. It should hit $4,000-$6,000.

An 1888 hooked mat (or rug), found by Chris Huntington in his Cape-style house on Hamm's Hill, Nova Scotia, boasting strong colors and the rare inclusion of the maker's name, date, and name of the eventual owner hooked into the border ("Mrs. George Aulenbach's mat hooked by Mrs. James Hughes in 1888"), 65 ¾ inches by 32 inches, carries an estimate of $3,000-$5,000.

Chris Huntington, the bombastic artist and folk art advocate, began his antique dealing career in Maine. In 1975, on the heels of his landmark auction, he packed his bags to begin a quieter life in Nova Scotia. But he simply couldn’t sit still. Persistently, he hunted for Nova Scotia’s top folk artist and one by one he made them famous.

“Chris became the agent for Collins Eisenhauer, Joe Norris, Charlie Tanner and many, many more,” Ethan Miller said. “Many of the important works he retained are included in this sale -- along with a few of his own paintings. Fifty years of a wild and wonderful career led to this unique offering. Chris bought with an artist’s eye, and he seldom if ever sold from his own personal collection.”

This is an online-only auction. There will be no in-person event to attend, but bidders can tune in to the live webcast on April 12th to watch the lots close in real time.

Here is a link to the April 12th East Coast Canadiana & Folk Art auction on the Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. website: https://live.millerandmillerauctions.com/auctions/4-FWZZDQ/east-coast-canadiana-folk-art-featuring-the-chris-huntington-collection

Miller & Miller Auctions’ calendar of upcoming online-only auctions includes the following:

- May 2: Toys

- May 3: Comic Books

- May 23-25: Advertising & Petroliana

- June 5: Luxury Watches

To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. and the East Coast Canadiana & Folk Art auction planned for Saturday, April 12th, at 9am Eastern, visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

About Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.:

Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. is Canada’s trusted seller of high-value collections and is always accepting quality consignments. The firm specializes in watches and jewelry, art, antiques and high-value collectibles. Its mission is to provide collectors with a trusted place to buy and sell. To consign a single piece, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (519) 573-3710; or, you can e-mail them at info@millerandmillerauctions.com. To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd., please visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

Media Contact:

Ethan Miller

Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.

59 Webster Street

New Hamburg, Ont., CD N3A 1W8

519-573-3710

info@millerandmillerauctions.com

http://www.millerandmillerauctions.com

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Sterling Associates' April 2 Auction has Art Glass Lampshades, Nippon, Noritake, DeVilbiss Perfumes

Norwood, NJ, USA, March 26, 2025 -- A Late Spring Specialty Antique Estate Auction featuring the outstanding single-owner collection of the late Judy Boyd (1939-2018) of Bergen County, New Jersey, will be conducted online-only by Sterling Associates on Wednesday, April 2, starting promptly at 5pm Eastern time. Nearly 200 of the sale’s 262 lots are dedicated to Ms. Boyd’s vast decorative art collection. 

Items in the Boyd collection include superb art glass lampshades by such names as Tiffany, Steuben and Quezal; DeVilbiss atomizers, which often were used for perfumes and are admired for their elegant design and historical significance; and vibrant and colorful examples of Japanese Noritake ceramics and Nippon porcelain. 

Of those categories, the one expected to generate the greatest bidder buzz is the lampshades, especially the offerings by Quezal. “It’s very unusual to see such a nice grouping of rare shades all in one auction,” remarked Stephen D’Atri, the owner of Sterling Associates. “The examples in this auction are a tribute to Judy Boyd’s keen collector eye.” 

The Quezal shades include lot #160, a pulled-feather selenium red tulip shade with crimped bottom and gold aurene interior, with an estimate of $600-$800; lot #130, a double-zipper bullet-form shade, expected to bring $200-$300; and lot #132, a set of five blue double-hooked pulled-feather shades with gold aurene interior. Estimate: $500-$700. 

Notably, lot #146 is a set of three Steuben iridescent pulled-feather art glass shades that previously sold at Sotheby’s. The set has an estimate of $300-$500. 

DeVilbiss is a company now known for manufacturing and selling automotive spray guns and paint guns, but it began in the 19th century as a manufacturer of atomizers, much to the delight of the people who collect them. The first of the company’s atomizers were invented around 1887 by Dr Allen De Vilbiss for use in spraying tiny droplets of medication into his patients’ nasal cavities and throats. 

Dr. DeVilbiss’ sons were also adept product developers, and within a few decades they were producing atomizers for perfumes. Lot #6, a DeVilbiss green opaline glass and gilt atomizer, is a stunning piece of vintage craftsmanship. It carries a modest pre-sale estimate of $100-$200, but sharp-eyed bidders have already surpassed that many times. 

Lot #17 is a set of two DeVilbiss wheel-cut and gilt atomizers, 7 inches tall; while lot #44 is an attractive example about a half-inch taller. All the DeVilbiss atomizers, in fact, have pre-auction estimates of $100-$200, meant to encourage collectors to bid early and bid often. 

Ms. Boyd loved the nostalgia and beauty of antique perfume bottles. She focused her collecting on DeVilbiss because she appreciated the beauty of the American art glass in such a small and delicate form. Many of Judy’s bottles are identical to or variations of bottles found in the book DeVilbiss Perfume Bottles by Marti DeGraaf and Toby Mack. 

Ms. Boyd was mentioned prominently in the books Van Patten’s ABC’s of Collecting Nippon Porcelain and The Spain Book of Noritake Collectibles, A-Z. Now, the very pieces that are discussed in these important reference guides can be purchased for the lucky collectors who submit winning bids. All would be fine additions to any serious collection. 

A few examples include a Nippon Coralene vase, patented in 1909, 9 inches tall and boasting a lovely lakeside village scene with trees; a Noritake Art Deco Pierrot luster ashtray, 6 inches by 4.25 inches; and a Noritake Art Deco portrait lusterware plate with a scene of a lady in a gown, 7.75 inches in diameter. Each of the three has a $100-$200 estimate. 

For many years in the 1980s and 1990s, Ms. Boyd served on the executive board of the International Nippon Collector’s Club and was the editor of the International Nippon Newsletter. She authored article after article about the origins of different techniques used by the Japanese in producing different types of Nippon and its styles and designs. 

The rest of the auction will contain items sourced primarily from prominent local estates and collections, including clocks, porcelains, artworks, sneakers and even a collection of vampire killing kits and related items that previously belonged to a distinguished doctor who split his time between the lively streets of New Orleans and the avenues of Paris. 

Lot #193 is a carved figural vampire killing kit, including a silver-mounted Dutch Bible, Holy water, garlic and salt bottles; stakes, and a hammer cross. Estimate: $1,500-$2,000. Overall, each piece in the doctor’s collection tells a story of his travels and dedication to both history and culture. Also offered are examples of “memento mori” (literally translating to “a reminder of death”). 

Lot #198 is a wall hanging vampire killer grouping, measuring 15 inches by 22 inches by 5 inches, with an estimate of $1,500-$2,000. Lot #200 is a memento mori Roman soldier marble bust, 32 inches tall by 24 inches wide. It is expected to reach $2,500-$3,500. 

Lot #166 is a gorgeous Tiffany Studios bronze harp floor lamp, having a three-footed base with a Tiffany gold Favrile shade marked “L.C. Tiffany Favrile.” The base is also marked “Tiffany Studios New York.” The 55¾-inch-tall lamp is expected to realize $1,000-$1,500. 

Sterling Associates’ Wednesday, April 2, 2025 online-only auction will follow the same innovative blueprint Stephen D’Atri has used since first opening the doors to his brick-and-mortar business. The auction will begin at 5pm Eastern time and will be conducted online via LiveAuctioneers and Invaluable like a gallery auction, but with no live in-gallery bidding. 

All items may be previewed through the online catalog or in person at Sterling Associates’ gallery by appointment only. Winning bidders have the option of picking up their auction purchases at Sterling Associates’ premises at 537 Broadway, Norwood, NJ 07648. Alternatively, goods can be shipped anywhere in the world via third-party shippers. 

For additional information on any item, call 201-768-1140 or email info@antiquenj.com. Online: http://www.antiquenj.com. View the fully illustrated catalog and sign up to bid absentee or live online through LiveAuctioneers and Invaluable.

About Sterling Associates:

Sterling Associates of Norwood, New Jersey, is owned and operated by its founder, Stephen D’Atri. The D’Atri family, which has been in the antiques business for nearly seven decades, provided the all-important foundation that guided Stephen toward what would become a successful and rewarding lifelong career. After working with his family and graduating from Rutgers University, Stephen furthered his education at New York School of Interior Design. In 1989, he opened his own businesses, Sterling Restoration and Antique D'zynes. Those firms merged to become the company known today as Sterling Associates Inc., a full-service antique sales, auction and restoration facility, specializing in the finest European and American antiques. Stephen scours the New Jersey/New York/Connecticut tri-state region for rare and beautiful estate objects which he offers to collectors, interior designers, decorators and others in the trade. Sterling Associates’ restoration services are known for their historical accuracy and are always undertaken or personally overseen by Stephen D'Atri himself.

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Kimberly Hong Joins Atlanta-Based Auction Powerhouse Ahlers & Ogletree as Director of Sales & Business Development

Atlanta, GA, USA, March 22, 2025 -- Kimberly Hong has joined Ahlers & Ogletree and will serve as the Atlanta auction powerhouse’s Director of Sales & Business Development, Trusts & Estates, and Private Clients. She will play a critical role in expanding the company’s business-to-business pipeline, managing and growing the sales team and broadening its market reach throughout Georgia and the Southeast.

“This role requires a results-driven leader with experience in relationship-building, business strategy and team management within the fine art, luxury goods, antiques and auction industries,” said Robert Ahlers, president and owner of The Ahlers Group, the corporate umbrella under which Ahlers & Ogletree and other related companies exist. “Kim Hong checks all those boxes and then some.”

This is actually Ms. Hong’s second stint with the firm. From 2014-2017 she served as the company’s Director of Consignments. In that capacity she oversaw auction cataloging and the photography staff; managed consignment intake; and worked with the strategy and management team. Before that she worked as a cataloger at Jackson’s International Auctioneers & Appraisers in Cedar Falls, Iowa.

After leaving A&O in 2017, she became the owner of Collected Appraisals and Advisory, an appraisal and advisory services firm based in Portland, Oregon. While in Portland, she also worked for The Fine Art Group (formerly Pall Mall Art Advisors) as a generalist appraiser. Her role later expanded to run the Mountain Territory.

Kimberly Hong holds a B.A. degree in Art History and Communications from Saint Louis University. She earned her M.A. degree in Art History from the University of Oregon. She is a member of the International Society of Appraisers and serves on their Antiques, Furnishings & Decorative Arts Committee. She also earned an Applied Jewelry Professional diploma from the Gemological Institute of America.

Ahlers & Ogletree is a full-service auction house located in Atlanta, Georgia. Owned and operated by Robert Ahlers and his wife, Christy Ogletree Ahlers, the duo combines their collective 40 years’ of experience to connect sellers and buyers with rare and coveted items and collections.

“From our earliest days, we realized the story of an item or collection is just as important as the piece itself,” Mr. Ahlers said. “That’s why we’ve always taken the time to painstakingly research and authenticate each item we agree to consign. This attention to detail is an integral reason A&O has been recognized for expanding regional interest in the industry, fostering an environment of integrity and honesty, and for introducing an innovative brand that offers turn-key service for any estate.”

Today, sellers and buyers enjoy 12 -15 auctions each year, featuring a diverse assortment of carefully curated items and collections including rare objects, fine art, estate jewelry, vintage automobiles, fine silver, collectibles, antique furniture, and rare maps and books.

To learn more about Ahlers & Ogletree and the firm’s calendar of upcoming events, please visit www.aandoauctions.com. You can also follow Ahlers & Ogletree on social media, at Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

About Ahlers & Ogletree:

Ahlers & Ogletree is always seeking quality consignments for future auctions, especially Modern art, Asian arts and artifacts, and luxury jewelry and accessories. To consign a single item, an estate or a collection, call 404-869-2478; or, send an e-mail to consign@AandOauctions.com. To learn more about Ahlers & Ogletree and the firm’s calendar of upcoming events, please visit www.aandoauctions.com. You can also follow Ahlers & Ogletree on social media, at Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

Media Contact:

Jamia Berry

Ahlers & Ogletree

1788 Ellsworth Industrial Blvd.

Atlanta, GA 30318 USA

404-869-24278

jamia@aandoauctions.com

http://www.aandoauctions.com

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Will The Stone industry be Rocked by The New Thinstone Handbook from Southwest Stone?

Tulsa, OK, March 22, 2025 -- For generations the Cox family has been well known for everything involving hardscape, thin stone, masonry, and everything building stone related via there strong ties to the construction and masonry community in Tulsa Oklahoma, especially via there family business Southwest Stone which is one of the most popular wholesale hardscape suppliers in Tulsa.

Adam Cox of the cox family said he is excited about the new book, with input from Jacob Cox, Justin Cox, Eddie Cox and the entire cox family. 

The book is "The Thin Stone Handbook" it’s currently for sale on Amazon has great reviews and available to read for free on kindle, via kindle unlimited. 

The Thin Stone Handbook covers everything anyone ends to know about thin stone veneer. Including finding the right thin stone, installing thin stone, how to pick out the right thin stone, how to pick the best thin stone contractors and the book also has lots of pictures of all the different types of thin stone, says Adam Cox at Southwest stone in Tulsa. 

"This book pairs perfect with our quarry direct pricing on thinstone and building stone". Says Eddie Cox of SWSstone.com

You can find out more about Southwest stone at www.SWStone.com or buy the book on Amazon here https://www.amazon.com/Thin-Stone-Veener-Handbook-SWStone-com/dp/B0DVC6WJBH

Media Contact:

Southwest Stone

11351 east 36th street north 

Tulsa, OK, 74141

918-438-3777

adam@swstone.com

http://www.swstone.com

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Tiny Planet Founders Embark on A Round-The-World Expedition to Redefine Off-Grid Living

Sacramento, CA, March 19, 2025 -- Tiny Planet, a leader in the luxury off-road van conversion industry, is taking its vision global. Founders Denis and Sofia, along with their toddler Amelia, are setting out on an extraordinary round-the-world journey in one of their signature high-tech Mercedes Sprinter vans—redefining the very concept of mobile luxury and exploration.

This May, they are leaving behind the familiar and diving headfirst into an epic, globe-spanning adventure. The family will set off from Los Angeles, weaving through Utah’s fiery red rock canyons and Colorado’s towering peaks before racing toward the East Coast. From there, their van will cross the Atlantic, launching them into the heart of Europe, where they’ll immerse themselves in the vibrant cultures of Spain, France, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland. But the real test begins beyond the well-trodden paths:

- The Russian Taiga, where relentless isolation will push both their van—and their resilience—to the edge.

- The Mongolian Steppe, where they’ll ride alongside nomadic herders beneath endless skies.

- The Old Silk Road, where ancient trade routes, rugged trails, and unpredictable border crossings will turn the journey into a true expedition.

"We’re Not Just Traveling – We’re Exploring the Future of Living"

“The future is unpredictable. None of us truly know what conditions or circumstances we may face in the coming years. Climate change, resource shortages, economic shifts—our way of life could change in an instant. What if, one day, we are forced to leave our homes, our cities, or even our planet? Perhaps humanity will have to colonize Mars or adapt to extreme conditions here on Earth. This overland expedition is not just about adventure—it’s about exploring how we can live independently, sustainably, and resiliently, no matter where the future takes us," - says Denis, founder of Tiny Planet.

The mission of the Tiny Planet Round-the-World Expedition is to explore and showcase a new way of life—one that is free from urban infrastructure, fully autonomous, and seamlessly connected with nature.

We are not just travelers; we are explorers of the future of housing. From high-tech van life in the U.S. to the ancient nomadic traditions of Mongolia, we are studying how people live across the world to develop new standards of freedom and conscious travel,” says Sofia, co-founder of Tiny Planet. “Along the way, we will meet like-minded individuals who have chosen alternative lifestyles—those living in tiny houses, huts, yurts, and RVs. People who have dared to break free from conventional living, embracing independence and self-sufficiency. Their stories will inspire a global audience to rethink what’s possible and explore new ways of living beyond traditional boundaries.”

Tiny Planet’s cutting-edge expedition van is designed for full-time living and the harshest travel conditions. It features: a powerful off-grid electrical system with solar charging; a state-of-the-art hydronic heating system with heated floors, a 12V air conditioner for energy-efficient cooling; a smart home system for seamless automation; a full kitchen with an induction cooktop, dishwasher and fridge; a spa-like indoor hot shower; Japandi interior design blending minimalist aesthetics with functional luxury.

Tiny Planet proves that leaving your house doesn’t mean leaving your comfort behind. With their innovative van design, you can take the luxuries of a five-star hotel wherever you go. Ultimate freedom no longer requires compromise.

Follow the Journey

Throughout their adventure, Denis and Sofia will document their experiences, offering real-world insights into off-grid living, van life, and cultural exploration. Their journey will be shared through video content in their social media.

Join us on this groundbreaking journey! Follow our adventures on [social media platform] for real-time updates, insights on off-grid living, and a closer look at the future of mobile luxury.

Official start

Tiny Planet is officially launching its much-anticipated Round-the-World Expedition from the Adventure Van Expo in Ventura, California, on May 10-11, 2025.

At the Expo, Denis and Sofia, co-founders of Tiny Planet, will unveil their high-tech, luxury Mercedes Sprinter expedition van—a fully autonomous mobile home that will carry them and their 1-year-old daughter Amelia across 30,000 miles, spanning three continents and some of the most remote terrain on Earth.

The Ventura event will not only be the public’s first look at the van, but also the official send-off celebration for the family’s global journey. Visitors, journalists, and fellow van enthusiasts are invited to step inside the van, meet the family, and experience firsthand the innovative design and technology that makes full-time, off-grid family living possible.

Media Contact:

Elena Shepherd

Tiny Planet

marketing@tinyplanet.group

https://tinyplanet.group

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Miller & Miller's Online-Only Auction, March 29th, Features Sporting Art, Cartridge Boards, Canadian Decoys, Ammo Boxes

New Hamburg, Ontario, Canada, March 16, 2025 -- An online-only Firearms & Sporting Auction, featuring the diverse and long-time collections of Wayne G. Connor and Robert Warwick, along with many outstanding individual consignments, is planned for Saturday, March 29th, by Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd., starting promptly at 9am Eastern time. In all, 211 lots will be offered. 

The catalog is packed with early and rare firearms art and advertising, store displays, factory cartridge boards, fine Winchester rifles and shotguns, Colt percussion revolvers, flintlocks, Smith & Wesson cartridge revolvers, North American trade muskets, magnificent decoys, factory reloading tools, scarce ammunition boxes, and a sprinkling of iconic military rifles. 

Individual lots expected to do well include late 19th century Winchester cartridge display boards; an original watercolor hunting painting by John Joseph Barsotti (American, b. 1914); an Upper Canada Militia Colt 1851 London Navy percussion revolver; a New Haven Arms .44 caliber rimfire ammo box; and a circa 1891 Smith & Wesson factory engraved revolver. 

“This exciting and diverse sale featuring advertising, Canadian decoys, collectible ammunition, sporting, military, and antique firearms will appeal to both seasoned and new collectors alike,” said Paul Matheson, Miller & Miller’s Consignment Director for the auction. 

Mr. Matheson added, “Highlights include high condition antique Smith & Wessons, historic Canadian indigenous trade rifles, a Turnbull restored Winchester low wall 15-inch trapper, a wide array of Colt revolvers including two Upper Canada Militia 1851s and an 1860s Richards conversion, a William Marston (Toronto) heavy barrel target percussion rifle, and much more.” 

Lot #181 is an American circa 1897 Winchester Double “W” cartridge display board No. 291, an oak framed lithographed backboard displaying dummy inert samples of all the pistol and rifle cartridges and shotgun shells then being produced in the firm’s New Haven, Conn. factory. The 40 inch by 57 ½ inch board is in very good condition with strong colors (est. $35,000-$45,000). 

All estimates quoted in this report are in Canadian dollars.

Lot #182 is a Winchester circa 1888 inverted “V” cartridge display board, slightly altered from the 1886 introduced version by the addition of two additional rifle cartridges, the .38-56 WCF added on the left side above a primer tin and the .40-60 WCF added on the right side, above a primer tin. The board is housed in a 32 ¼ inch by 42 ¾ inch oak frame (est. $25,000-$40,000).

Lot #55 is the framed watercolor painting by the Columbus, Ohio artist, curator, historian and antique gun collector, John Joseph Barsotti. Titled The Hide Hunters, the 1959 work depicts hunters with heavy caliber Sharps single shot rifles shooting American buffalo for their hides in North Dakota. Beside the hunter lies his Winchester Model 1866 carbine (est. $22,000-$38,000). 

Lot #170 is the rare, circa 1856 Upper Canada Militia Colt Second Model 1851 London Navy percussion revolver, serial no. 34570, .36 caliber, with a 7 ½ inch octagonal barrel and holster. This is a much higher, original condition, Upper Canada Colt than most limited surviving ones and rarer, too, due to having been issued to a small number militia unit (est. $13,000-$19,000). 

Lot #51 is a circa 1863-1865 New Haven Arms .44 caliber rimfire ammunition box for the Henry rifle. The 2-piece cardboard box with light green paper top label, black lettering and border scroll contains 50 copper case rim fire cartridges with raised headstamp in a dished circle and loaded with 26 grains of black powder and a 216-grain flat-nose lead bullet (est. $12,000-$18,000). 

Note to bidders: For lot #51, and other lots throughout the sale, a valid PAL is required for purchase. 

Lot # 59 is a Winchester Custom Shop (Custom Grade) Model 21 SXS double-barrel 20-gauge shotgun, serial no. 30884, with 26-inch barrels chambered for 2 and ¾ inch shells. The shotgun was manufactured in 1967 for a customer. After the cessation of the Model 21 factory production in 1959, only around 1,000 were made in three grades, from 1960-1991 (est. $12,000-$15,000). 

Lot # 152 is a circa 1891 American Smith & Wesson factory engraved, new model revolver in 44 S&W Russian caliber. The weapon has matching serial numbers on the butt, cylinder, barrel rib extension and barrel latch. It’s mechanically sound, and has bright case colors, near-perfect grips and comes with a factory letter confirming the ship date of Dec. 8, 1891 (est. $12,000-$15,000). 

Lot #66 is a circa 1903 Deluxe Winchester Model 1885 high wall special sporting / target rifle, serial no. 82375, in .32-40 caliber with post-production mounted Winchester Model A5 telescopic sight and No. 3 weight, and a 30-inch octagonal and round barrel, 29 inches long. A factory letter confirms the warehouse shipped it on October 6, 1903 (est. $9,000-$15,000). 

This is an online-only auction. There will be no in-person event to attend, but bidders can tune in to the live webcast on March 29th to watch the lots close in real time. 

Here is a link to the March 29th Firearms & Sporting Auction on the Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. website: https://live.millerandmillerauctions.com/auctions/4-G331GU/firearms-sporting-featuring-the-g-wayne-connor-collection 

Miller & Miller Auctions’ calendar of upcoming online-only auctions includes the following: 

- April 12: East Coast Canadiana & Folk Art, featuring the Chris Huntington collection.

- May 3: Pop Culture – Comics, Toys and Music Memorabilia 

To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. and the Firearms & Sporting Auction planned for Saturday, March 29th, please visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

About Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd.:

Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd. is Canada’s trusted seller of high-value collections and is always accepting quality consignments. The firm specializes in watches and jewelry, art, antiques and high-value collectibles. Its mission is to provide collectors with a trusted place to buy and sell. To consign a single piece, an estate or a collection, you may call them at (519) 573-3710; or, you can e-mail them at info@millerandmillerauctions.com. To learn more about Miller & Miller Auctions, Ltd., please visit www.MillerandMillerAuctions.com. Updates are posted frequently.

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Samuel Beckett's Groundbreaking Play "Waiting for Godot" Arrives in Kingston, MA, This April

Kingston, MA, March 13, 2025 -- Celebrating its 25th season, True Repertory Theatre will bring Samuel Beckett’s groundbreaking play “Waiting for Godot” to life this April. Performances will be held at the Beal House, 222 Main St. in Kingston with evening performance on April 4, 5, 11 at 8PM and matinees on April 6, 12, 13 at 3PM.

Tickets are $25 general admission and $22 for seniors and students. Group discounts of $20 a ticket for 10 or more available upon request. Tickets can be purchased online or at the performance. Online purchases can be made at TrueRepTheatre.com.

“We chose Waiting for Godot because now, more than ever, this feels like the right work at the right time,” said Donald Sheehan, who serves as the Artistic Director of True Rep.

The play is about two people living in a chaotic world who struggle to hold onto hope, who have invested in someone they know nothing about, Godot, to deliver their future. As they wait, they entertain one another, debate their existence, test their resilience, and provide unexpected humor, wisdom, and hope.

“The challenge of this play, for the actor, is to be completely honest and open — only then do we, as an audience, begin to recognize ourselves in these relationships,” remarked director, Victoria Bond. “Hopefully, people will not only recognize themselves, but one another, as well.” 

As the author of the play Samuel Beckett said, “What are we doing here, that is the question. And we are blessed in this, that we happen to know the answer. Yes, in the immense confusion one thing alone is clear. We are waiting for Godot to come.”

Directed by Victoria Bond of Plymouth this modern production stars Mark Reed of Hull as Estragon, Donald Sheehan of Pembroke as Vladimir, Ryan Guimares of Pembroke as Pozzo, Stephen Lee of Randolph as Lucky, and Robby Silenzi of Halifax as the Boy.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit TrueRepTheatre.com.

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From Harry's Birthday to Patrick’s Day: Get Lucky with A High-Caliber Virtual Assistant for Just $300/Month!

Pennsylvania, March 11, 2025 -- Beyond Business Virtual Assistants (BBVA) is celebrating a special occasion with a game-changing offer! From March 9th, the birthday of our Chief Operating Officer Harryson Bayta, through St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th at 11:59 PM EST, business owners can secure a top-tier Virtual Assistant for just $300 per month. This limited-time deal is designed to help entrepreneurs streamline operations, increase efficiency, and scale their businesses without the stress of hiring.

“At Beyond Business Virtual Assistants, we believe that business owners need more than just extra hands—they need skilled professionals who can drive growth,” said Harryson Bayta, COO of Beyond Business Virtual Assistants. “This exclusive offer is our way of celebrating while giving businesses access to expert virtual support at an unbeatable price.”

Why This Offer Stands Out

- Top-Tier Virtual Assistants – Pre-vetted, highly skilled professionals tailored to your business needs.

-​ Hassle-Free Recruitment – We handle sourcing, interviews, and onboarding.

-​ Cost-Effective Hiring – Secure expert support at a fraction of in-house hiring costs.

-​ More Time for Growth – Focus on scaling your business while we take care of the hiring process.

A Smarter Hiring Solution for Business Owners

Finding and hiring the right virtual assistant can be time-consuming and costly. BBVA eliminates these challenges by delivering dedicated, high-caliber VAs through a structured recruitment process. Our team ensures each VA is pre-screened, trained, and ready to contribute to business success from day one.

With a professional VA managing administrative tasks, marketing, customer communication, and more, business owners can focus on higher-level strategies and revenue-generating activities.

Proven Success from Our Clients

BBVA has helped countless business owners optimize their operations. One fast-growing e-commerce brand reported a 40% increase in productivity and a 25% reduction in operational costs after hiring a VA through our service.

Another client shared:

“Hiring a VA from Beyond Business was one of the best decisions I made. My daily workload is lighter, my operations are smoother, and I can finally focus on growing my business.”

About Beyond Business Virtual Assistants:

Beyond Business Virtual Assistants is a trusted provider of high-quality virtual assistants, specializing in business support, administrative assistance, and marketing. Our mission is to help professionals scale their businesses efficiently by providing expert virtual support.

Limited-Time Offer – From Harry’s Birthday to Patrick’s Day, Get Lucky with a Deal That Pays – Act Now!

This exclusive promotion is available only from March 9th to March 17th at 11:59 PM EST. Don’t miss your chance to elevate your business with a dedicated virtual assistant at an unbeatable price!

How to Claim This Offer – From Harry’s Birthday to Patrick’s Day, Get Lucky with a Deal That Pays

To secure this limited-time deal, contact Beyond Business Virtual Assistants today. Let us help you take your business to new heights with expert virtual support!

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