Michael C. Fina Selected For Custom China Service For USS NEW YORK

November 3, 2009

NEW YORK, Nov. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael C. Fina has been selected to create the china service for the new U.S. Navy ship, USS NEW YORK. The ship, built with 7.5 tons of steel from the fallen World Trade Center in its bow, is to be commissioned in New York City on November 7th.

The special china service was commissioned by the ship's sponsor, Mrs. Dotty England. Traditionally, the sponsor of each U.S. Navy ship presents a personal gift to the ship and its crew, which can range from books to paintings. Mrs. England chose an exclusive and uniquely designed set of china for USS NEW YORK. Mrs. England said, "This magnificent ship is not only named for a great State, it honors the thousands who were killed or injured on September 11, 2001 and the sacrifice and heroism of all those who came to their rescue."

She added, "Michael C. Fina has a reputation as a landmark New York retailer, and it was a pleasure to work with them in providing a traditional gift in tribute to this historic ship."

Mrs. England noted, "This china service will be used at formal occasions and diplomatic gatherings on the ship as her sailors and Marines represent the United States around the world in the years ahead."

"We are honored to have been a part of this endeavor," said Steven Fina, Vice President of Michael C. Fina. "Bringing beauty and personality to each and every home or home away from home has long been a mission of Michael C. Fina, and we are happy to have been able to do this for USS NEW YORK."

The commissioning of USS NEW YORK will mark the ship's entry into the U.S. Navy fleet. While in New York City, several events are planned to show New York hospitality and to express appreciation to the men and woman who serve our country.

The china service features traditional pieces including a dinner plate, salad plate, bread & butter plate, and can cup & saucer, along with a can mug and soup bowl. Many pieces in the custom service incorporate an image of the ship and the words "Never Forget," the essence of the ship's motto, "Strength Forged Through Sacrifice. Never Forget." Other pieces bear the ship's crest.

Pickard, a historic china house that has designed and produced its pieces in the United States since 1893 for individuals as well as the White House and various government organizations, created the service.

The ship's sponsor is not only the person who christens the ship, breaking the champagne bottle over the bow of the ship, but is also the person who, at the commissioning ceremony, gives the order to "Bring this ship to life!"

Mrs. England is the wife of Gordon England, former Deputy Secretary of Defense. While serving as the 72nd Secretary of the Navy, Mr. England made the decision to have the ship named for New York as well as naming sister ships USS ARLINGTON and USS SOMERSET to honor those who were killed in Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001.

More information about USS NEW YORK and the commissioning activities can be found at the official website, www.ussny.org.

About Michael C. Fina

Michael C. Fina, New York's premier family owned and operated retail destination, has been providing customers with quality products and exceptional service for nearly 75 years. The flagship store, located at 545 Fifth Ave. New York, NY, offers a stunning variety of engagement rings, wedding bands, jewelry, fine tableware, estate silver, art glass, and a bath & home fragrance collection.

For more information, please visit www.michaelcfina.com.

SOURCE Michael C. Fina