Travelocity’s iconic “Roaming Gnome” is roaming around the social media site Chatroulette carrying signs like, "This would be better if we were in Rio." The gnome’s job is to encourage chatters on the site to consider travel.

Chatroulette is the brainchild of Russian teenager, Andrey Ternovskiy. Users communicate with strangers via webcam. The site has received considerable attention – both praise and criticism. A reference on The Daily Show by Jon Stewart solidified the brand’s standing in pop culture.

The average Chatroulette chat lasts barely seconds, as you are quickly and often “nexted” for passing on a potential interaction. It’s a big winner in the teen/tween market, but stories swirl about it becoming a digital peep parlor.Continue reading...

Disney's 'Rapunzel' will see a tough new makeover for male viewers. [LA Times]

Cutting back on discounts gave J.Crew an unexpected boost in sales. [WSJ]

Bank of America has put an end to overdraft fees on debit card purchases. [NY Times]

Twiggy, known for her modeling past, is designing a collection for HSN. [WWD]

Chile's recent earthquake negatively effected its wine industry. [Businessweek]

Cynthia Rowley has extended her clothing line to include bridesmaid dresses. [Vows]Continue reading...

With the help of Kenneth Cole, Macy's will launch another lower-priced brand. [Crain's]

Online grocery store Fresh Direct created an iPhone app for New York. [WSJ]

Sony, Intel team up for The Rocket Project, designed for students. [BrandFreak]

Not yet saved from bankrupcy, Christian Lacroix continues to create more lines. [NY Mag]

Akoo Jeans' controversial billboard in Newark will be taken down. [Huffington Post]

NBC's new sitcom 'Parenthood' will be exclusively sponsored by Nissan. [Brandweek]Continue reading...