Casa y Hogar, the bimonthly Spanish-language shelter magazine with a circulation of 918,000 announced that Emmy-award winner and author Christopher Lowell has been named a celebrity columnist in the magazine. Filiberto Fernandez, Publisher and CEO of Casa y Hogar also announced the addition of two Latin architects: Orestes Gonzalez, experienced renovator and developer, and Ruperto Arvelo, internationally renowned interior designer. They will both join the magazine as regular bi-monthly contributors..
Lowell, who's at the forefront of the ever-changing American culture, offers solutions to the challenge of creating multi-functional homes. His platform is based on the notion that a home should be both tranquil and productive integrating vital technology along with “his” and “her” personalities.
“It's not about the color of the sofa, it's about making compelling decisions today that will impact productivity and foster well being,” said Christopher Lowell, who will also cover design and decorating, flower arranging, and gardening.
Ruperto Arvelo will write a section titled “Antes y Después” (Before and After) that will teach readers how to transform a room in their house by remodeling and redecorating. Orestes Gonzalez will write “Para Profesionales” (For Professionals) a section geared towards Latin contractors and professionals that offers advice and introduces new products. Casa y Hogar recently increased its circulation to 918,000. 66% (or 610,046) of its distribution is home delivered.
Lisa Contreras-Torres was hired by MPG's Diversity to lead its multicultural media effort. Ms. Contreras-Torres was VP-head of multicultural services at Carat USA.
Derek Rigaud is the new sales director of AOL Latino. He will report to Mark Lopez, publisher of AOL Latino.
Sam Verdeja, former president, CEO and owner of Hispanic Publishing Group (HPG), was named senior advisor to the magazines and web site Editorial Televisa bought in Verdeja's company in November 2004. Additionally, Televisa recently bought the 49% stake it did not yet own in Verdeja's former company. Editorial Televisa now owns 100% of Hispanic, Hispanic Trends and the Web site Hispanic Online.