Macy’s Passport
25 Years, $25 Million
By Lord Martine

Sep 17 | archive | subscribe

2007 marks the silver milestone of Macy’s Passport. The fashion spectacular commemorates an iconic quarter-century of unparalleled style, state-of-the art theatrics, celebrity guests and unwavering dedication to the HIV/AIDS community.

Since the onset of the HIV/AIDS pandemic in the early 1980’s, Macy’s – in steadfast partnership with sponsors, top designers and community organizations - has raised invaluable awareness and, with proceeds from this year, an astounding $25 million toward saving lives.

"People of conviction began this fight,” says Robert Mettler, Chairman and CEO, Macy's West. “And people of compassion must keep it going until education and treatment are available to all, until no child grows up orphaned and alone because of HIV, and until there is finally a vaccine that will rid our world of this devastating disease."

Director of Macy’s West Special Productions, Larry Hashbarger adds, “Passport has humble beginnings. It started in our employee cafeteria and grew to what we call fashion theater, but at the heart of it all, it’s about the community coming together, creating an opportunity to give back.”

Money raised by Macy's Passport is more needed than ever. The U.S. government's grant process for HIV/AIDS organizations has been restructured, resulting in less federal funds for groups that are not specifically categorized as "health care" providers. Passport beneficiaries include: UCSF-AIDS Research Institute, Maitri, National AIDS Memorial Grove, New Leaf: Services for our Community, PAWS-Pets Are Wonderful Support, STOP AIDS Project, Tenderloin Health, Huckleberry Youth Programs, New Conservatory Theatre Center, Academy of Friends, SF LGBT Community Center and Larkin Street Youth Services.

American Express Evening mounts Wednesday, September 19th. A pre-show cocktail reception will feature food from the Bay Area's finest restaurants, gorgeous beverages, and enthralling performances by the cast of Cirque du Soleil's classic production, Mystère. Following the show, guests are invited to mingle with Passport models and special guests at an exclusive after party at Slide.

"Cirque du Soleil is proud to participate,” says Anita Nelving, Cirque spokesperson. “By bringing together the fashion, business and artistic communities, Macy's Passport continues to have admirable success for this cause.”

Passport's Gala Evening, Thursday, September 20, is hosted by Honorary Chairs Ambassador James C. Hormel and Timothy C. Wu, and features MAC’s new Viva Glam girl, Dita Von Teese.

Guests of both Passport nights will lavish in fall fashions from Calvin Klein, Calvin Klein Underwear, Marc Ecko's Cut & Sew, Red by Marc Ecko, and Ecko Unlimited collections, Levi's, Epic Threads™, Via Spiga and more.

Seventh Avenue darlings, Richie Rich and Traver Rains of Heatherette, last year returned to San Francisco (Rich’s home town) for their Passport debut. This year, their bitchin’ stitchin’ makes an encore. “I love Passport!” Exclaims Rich. “It’s fabulous to come home this way. …My family now understands what I do because a universal retailer has embraced our designs. Macy’s has helped make my dreams come true.”

“It is in the spirit of Macy's Passport that we continue our mission of HIV/AIDS fundraising,” Hashbarger concludes. “Macy’s is truly grateful to be part of such a profoundly important endeavor. We salute all those who have the vision, courage and compassion to make a positive difference in the world, and thus, change the future of HIV/AIDS.” macys.com/passport