Yankees All-Star Closer, Mariano Rivera Partners with Michael C. Fina(R) and Hearts on Fire(R) for the Final Engagement Proposal of a Lifetime at Yankee Stadium

2008-08-01 00:28:01 -

- Hearts On Fire Rachel Clementi, 917-324-3421 rclementi@heartsonfire.com Representing a key milestone in the 85 years of unforgettable moments at legendary Yankee Stadium, Michael C. Fina, a leader in the jewelry and bridal industry and a premiere New York destination, located on 5th Ave. in the heart of Manhattan, and Hearts On Fire, The World's Most Perfectly Cut Diamond(R), in conjunction with the New York Yankees(R) and Mariano Rivera are teaming up to present the marriage proposal of a lifetime. One lucky Yankees fan will be chosen as the first and last person in the Stadium's history to propose live via the DiamondVision Screen at a game scheduled to be played during the final weekend of the Major League Baseball regular season at the "House that Ruth Built."

On July 31st, Mariano Rivera, the Yankees All-Star pitcher who is arguably the greatest closer in baseball history, announced "The Final Engagement," which consists of a chance to win the exclusive opportunity to "close the deal" via a live "televised" marriage proposal on the DiamondVision Screen during a game played on September 18th, 2008, a 1.5 carat Hearts On Fire diamond engagement ring valued up to $40,000 and 4 tickets to the September 18th, 2008 game, at a press conference held at Michael C. Fina.

Participants can enter at www.yankees.com/thefinalengagement or link to the site from the www.michaelcfina.com or www.heartsonfire.com websites. The entry will consist of a short essay describing why the fan deserves this honor at historic Yankee Stadium. For every registrant, Michael C. Fina and Hearts On Fire will donate $1 to the Mariano Rivera Foundation, a nonprofit organization that benefits under-privileged children. In addition, 15% of all Hearts On Fire purchases made at Michael C. Fina from now until December 31, 2008 will also be donated. The promotion launched on July 21st and ends on August 31st. The winner will be selected by a team of judges during the first week of September and chosen based on passion for the Yankees, creativity, and overall appeal.

"We are excited about our partnership with Michael C. Fina and a relationship continued into the new Yankee Stadium," said Michael J. Tusiani, New York Yankees Senior Vice President, Corporate Sales & Sponsorships

"The Fina family is thrilled to partner with the New York Yankees to help one couple start a life together in the 'House that Ruth Built.' From the perfect ring to the perfect proposal, my family is proud to assist in celebrating this momentous event, as well as all life's milestones," said Steven Fina, VP of Michael C. Fina.

"Hearts On Fire is thrilled to be associated with the New York Yankees and to present the ultimate fan with The World's Most Perfectly Cut Diamond. A broadcasted in-stadium engagement recognizing one of the most important milestones in a person's life during the final week of the stadium will be an intense and unforgettable experience for one lucky couple," said Mark Israel, CEO of Hearts On Fire.

About Michael C. Fina

Michael C. Fina, a family owned and operated specialty shop, has been providing customers with quality products and exceptional service for over 70 years. The flagship store, located at 545 Fifth Ave. New York, NY, offers a stunning variety of engagement rings, wedding bands, fine jewelry, tableware, estate silver, giftware, and fine stationary and invitations. An esteemed leader in recognizing and celebrating life's milestones, we invite you to make our family tradition your family legacy.

About Hearts On Fire(R)

The Hearts On Fire Company (HOF), is successfully building the pre-eminent consumer brand in the fine diamond jewelry business, powered by the pulsating energy of its extraordinary diamonds. Founded in 1996, Hearts On Fire has established a new industry standard for diamond cutting perfection, enabling the Company to become the world's fastest growing diamond brand. The Company continues to redefine the industry through its extraordinary diamonds, sophisticated marketing and training programs and unique retail relationships. Hearts On Fire, The World's Most Perfectly Cut Diamond(R), is carried in 31 countries, including 600 U.S. retail locations, as well as locations throughout the U.K., Asia, and the Caribbean. For more information, please visit www.heartsonfire.com.

About the Mariano Rivera Foundation

The Mariano Rivera Foundation is a nonprofit organization established by the Yankees' All-Star Pitcher, Mariano Rivera to support underprivileged children in Panama.

Fan Awarded Opportunity to "Close the Deal" Live on the
DiamondVision Screen During One of the Final Games at the Stadium.

To Benefit the Mariano Rivera Foundation