Selah Freedom
On Wednesday, August 8, 2018, Selah Freedom launched its NYC Selah Way Foundation luncheon at Wells Fargo located at 150 East 42nd Street. Elizabeth Melendez Fisher, co-founder of Selah Freedom, delivered a heartwarming presentation that included stories and statistics of young children right here in our own backyard.
“It was very exciting to launch the The Selah Way Foundation in NYC to a standing room only crowd of industry leaders. I feel so blessed that we are able to roll out the collaboration with the most highly vetted and regarded organizations coming together to eradicate sex trafficking in America. We will continue to take the best practices and not only make a major impact in America but take the global training arm to save and advocate for children and become interrupters to the process of trafficking happening around the world,” stated Elizabeth Melendez Fisher.
Also speaking on behalf of the organization, was Andy Adler, sports director and anchor for PIX11 News and pre-game host for the Giants, Yankees and Jets. Andy drove the point home, “These young women never had a chance at life. They don’t see an out, Selah is an intervention, a chance to recalibrate and set life on a new path. These young women need an advocate, Selah is a voice for the voiceless.”
Other guests included Tony Richardson, NFL Hall of Fame and NY Jets Commentator, Laura B. Riso, NYC FBI Agent Victim Specialist, Arthur D. Ettinger, celebrity matrimonial attorney Greenspoon Marder and Daina Falk, owner of Hungry Fan and daughter of legendary sports agent David Falk. Guests enjoyed a delicious summer cuisine by Celebrity Chef Chris Nirschel and a performance by DeeMo, Singer - Songwriter - Actor (“Gotham” and NBC’s “Shades of Blue”) who sang HERO, his hit single with his band.
Read my interview with the incredible and inspiring Elizabeth Fisher below:
Me: “Sex Trafficking is an issue that we unfortunately don’t hear much about, it tends to get swept under the rug due to most people just not wanting to acknowledge it because it’s uncomfortable. How do we guide the public conversation about sex trafficking more into the spotlight?”
Elizabeth: “I think that ‘Me Too’ has done a great job of starting the conversation. Now people are talking about what is happening. I think that by creating these platforms to speak out about sexual abuse, it opens the conversation. No one even wanted to speak about trafficking but now that sexual abuse is getting a platform and people are making the connection, trafficking is making headlines.”
Me: “What is the process when you first take a survivor in?”
Elizabeth: “It’s chasing them for years and years to help them realize they’re worth it. We’re in the streets, we’re in the courts, we’re in the jails, we are everywhere that these girls are. We help them take the next step like maybe commit to group meetings once a week, let them see what our house reform is. It’s a lot of dictating them to come to us, then they come and suddenly they get a peer assessment plan, an education plan, a GED, a career path, college goals and everything they need for a new start.”
Me: “There are people who are aware that sex trafficking is a major issue but think ‘what am i supposed to do about it?’ What are some things anyone can do to help end sex trafficking?”
Elizabeth: “Share information and spread awareness. We have “Parties with a Purpose” which anyone can host, you invite friends and we give you a kit with awareness literature and survivor stories to inform the guests about sex trafficking as well as donation cards for fundraising. We just have to start talking about it.”
Me: “I noticed Selah Freedom has a huge presence in Florida and Chicago, do you plan on expanding your presence in New York City?”
Elizabeth: “Yes we are currently doing our outreach and awareness programs here. What you see in Florida and Chicago is housing hubs, we will not have housing here. Our main focus here is prevention. We transport girls from everywhere to our existing housing hubs.”
About Selah Freedom
Selah Freedom has become the nation’s leading service provider to young American girls sold into sex trafficking and has the highest level of outcomes and standards in Selah Freedom’s safe housing, jail and court diversion programs. These programs remove unjust felonies from girls that were sold against their will and charged. Their national prevention program helps to get ahead of it for boys and girls with their network of the BEST PROVIDERS in the nation. Selah Freedom gives survivors in their programs an opportunity to dream again; to discover who it is they were created to be.
About The Selah Way Foundation
The Selah Way Foundation is a global network of leading anti-sex trafficking service providers dedicated to eradicating this issue on a global scale. By locking arms with well vetted, expert organizations in this movement, The Selah Way Foundation creates a solid system of care for survivors of sex trafficking. By the end of 2018, The Selah Way Foundation will reach its goal of raising $15 million (and by 2020, $55 million) to fuel its three initiatives: Prevention, Protection and Provision. These three initiatives will exponentially expand every year to eradicate sex trafficking on a global scale.
Photos courtesy of Selah
Jill Zarin’s 6th Annual Luxury Luncheon
On July 28th, Architechnology Designs presented Jill Zarin’s 6th Annual Luxury Luncheon at Topping Rose House in East Hampton. The event raised funds for Thyroid Oncology Group in honor of Jill’s late husband, Bobby Zarin, who lost his battle against thyroid cancer earlier this year.
The soiree invited guests into an intimate luxury experience filled with high-end beauty products, melt-in-your-mouth delicacies like kobe beef, and plenty of rosé, all enjoyed to the tune of DJ Samantha Michelle’s music.
When asked about the significance of continuing her annual luncheon, Jill answered, "He was just always supportive of everything I did. Bobby always said one more and that’s it. So, in honor of him, one more.”
Jill was supported by a crowd of celebrity friends, including Real Housewives Leanne Locken from Dallas, Vicki Gunvalson from Orange County, Juliet Angus from Ladies of London, Kathy Wakile from New Jersey, and Cindy Barshop from New York. Also in attendance were Heather McDonald, Dina Lohan, and Jill’s best friend and Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger, who flew out from California for the special event.
Guests were free to mingle and enjoy a feast of different experiences, including endless product samples, a designer trunk show, custom hairstyling, and even IV detox therapy by BeWell.
By the end of the day, guests walked away with swag bags valued at thousands of dollars. Those with “golden tickets” were treated to personalized gifts from vendors including jewelry line Kendra Scott, millennial makeup brand Winky Lux, and Lolea Sangria from Barcelona.
Proceeds from the event go toward research to find a cure for thyroid cancer. “Bobby’s team of doctors from MD Anderson, Memorial Sloane Kettering and Mayo Clinic were active members of ITOG’s community and were directly responsible for the treatment Bobby received including the last one that gave Bobby the extra 6 months we had together,” said Zarin. The event was a touching way to give back while commemorating the cause with friends, family, and socialites alike.
About International Thyroid Oncology Group
The mission of the International Thyroid Oncology Group is to create a cure for the most challenging thyroid cancers through the collaborative efforts of unique multidisciplinary team of leading physicians, scientists, and advocates to design, coordinate, and prioritize state-of-the-art clinical trials and correlative science.
Photos Credit: Jonny Nunez
Grand Opening of RFTP at the POD BK Hotel
On Wednesday, July 11, POD BK Hotel presented its guests and visitors with a new bar in town: RFTP. The bar is a lounge located on the rooftop of the POD BK Hotel.
RFTP is the perfect spot for an after-work hangout or a weekend meetup. It features an extensive terrace with a comfy lounging area and a large bar, which offers delicious drinks such as Frosé, Modelo and Pacifico. To complement the drinks, RFTP presents “Vegetable Garden,” which is a mixture of seasonal vegetables served on quinoa with a touch of black olive and burnt leek powder to resemble edible soil, all accompanied by a buttermilk ranch dip. The “Artichoke Dip,” which is a delightful mix of cauliflower, garlic confit, seared fontina, is served with pita chips and guarantees a perfect match to any drink from the bar. RFTP also provides classic side appetizers, such as a charcuterie board and paratha flatbread, which consists of feta, figs, arugula and balsamic.
Extend your visit to RFTP by also staying at the POD BK Hotel, which features a clean and minimalist design with splashes of color. The hotel, which opened in October of 2017, features cozy rooms with bunk beds and queen-size beds, while also emphasizing comfort in a close-knit space. Each hotel room is small, but as one of the staff members pointed out, “You come to New York to be outside of your hotel room.” Indeed, the hotel is a perfect place to rest and re-energize before heading to the city.
247 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Photos courtesy of RFTP
Bagatelle Summer Dinner
Bagatelle, it's not just for brunch anymore! The place that is the staple for upscale, club like brunch parties is also expanding their new dinner menu!
I was lucky enough to be invited to try their swanky new summer dinner menu last friday, and was blown away. This is where you want to bring someone you're trying to impress. Come dressed in your best -- there are some beautiful people in this place, ready to turn all the way up! Also, try sit close by to the tables next to you so that everyone can talk and get engaged!
The décor is elegant and romantic yet, it has a quirky vibe with interesting artwork adorning each wall. I especially enjoyed the Keith Haring inspired statues and the gorgeous chandeliers. However, everything became a bit of a blur once we had our 4th drink.
I must note that the service and attention to detail at Bagatelle is exceptional from the moment you walk in. While Bagatelle has always been well known for their fantastic service, the reality went beyond my expectation. That's before I even had a bite to eat.
Our server was very attentive and super pleasant. He answered all my oddball questions and made accommodation for my friend who couldn’t have any vinegar in any of her dishes.
As for the food, every single thing that came onto our plate was nothing short of excellent. We had quite an array of options that night, starting off with a refreshing appetizer called Salade de Pastque, which was watermelon salad, cucumber, candied pine nuts, ricotta salata, and basil vinaigrette (no vinegar for my friend’s dish – of course). I can honestly say it was the first time I ever had cheese with my watermelon. It would have never have occurred to me to even combine those two things but it was so good and I loved it! The dish really cleansed our palate, and got us ready for the rest of the plates.
The second course was Couteaux de Mer, which was a razor clam ceviche with piquillo pepper relish, and green garlic aioli. Every bite of this, was crunchy deliciousness. The third course was burrata filled with nanyuks vinaigrette and puffed barley.
For the main entrée we had two options. It was either the Cotelettes d’Agneau, which was a spiced marinated lamb chop with fava beans and harissa, or St Jacques Snackees, which was seared Maine diver scallops with bacon and green pea espum. With both choices sounding so delicious, we naturally got one of each to satisfy our curiosity.
And of course it’s impossible to forget the dessert we were served: A champagne mango flavored Pavlova, which capped off what I'd consider a perfect meal.
When I say I've never been fuller in my entire life, I mean it. Every component of my dining experience was delightful. The quality of the food, the stellar service, the club-like ambiance and the phenomenal company. My compliments to the staff and chef Andrew Riccatelli. It's truly a meal I'll never forget.
Would I go back to for more? Absolutely!
Dream Machine
If you’re looking for an escape from reality, look no further than Dream Machine.
A nine-room immersive art installation in Williamsburg, Dream Machine is designed to walk you through different common dreams.
You start by walking through a room of clouds, a room of bubbles filled with smoke, and the dream begins. Each room is a simulation of a different themed dream. There is a black and white room for those who only dream in black and white, and an ocean-blue ball pit for those who dream of being underwater.
My favorite part of the Dream Machine experience happened after I stopped to take a few pictures in the trippy laundromat, where you are given cotton candy. Before my group and I left, one of the workers suddenly stopped us and said “Hey, let me show you something cool.”
She opened a secret door that led to what they call the “Infinity Room”. The Infinity room is a mirrored room with tons of hanging lights designed to make you feel like you transported to outer space. It was incredible.
The rainbow hall is the perfect spot to take photos for Instagram. The entire exhibit is an Instagram jackpot, but this hallway had everyone stopped and posing. The hall changes colors, offering tons of opportunities for the best lighting possible.
After exploring the jungle room, you walk through a hall of shiny, metallic strings and the dream ends. The experience is designed to take about 45 minutes, but with all the stopping for pictures, plan on spending some more time. With a ticket price of $38, you get your money's worth.
Visit Dream Machine by clicking here. Dream Machine closes July 29th.
Absolut Truth "One Night Only"
On May 31st, dozens of socialites clad in smoky eyes, lacey attire, and bold statement pieces lined up for a chance to enter The Box, one of the hottest French nightclubs in the Lower East Side. Absolut Vodka hosted the exclusive event experience in New York in celebration of its Absolut Truth campaign. Absolut Truth’s “One Night Only” event used burlesque and mixed drinks to bring back the “golden era” of New York’s nightlife
New Yorkers know to expect jaw-dropping performances when it comes to The Box, and the night was no exception. Lingerie dancers strutted across the bar and lifted onto twirling hoops, mesmerizing onlookers. As guests sipped on Absolut and enjoyed passed hors d'oeuvres, whispers ensued of who the “surprise guest” set to appear would be. A special performance by one and only celebutante Amanda Le Pore, who serenaded the cheering crowd with a one-of-a-kind performance.
Whether attendees enjoyed the show from the midst of the dance floor or seated behind velvet drapes along the balcony, they left with buzzing energy and photos worthy of writing home about.
Taste of the Upper West Side 2018
With new bars and restaurants opening everyday on the Upper West Side (UWS), it’s difficult to stay on top of them! However, every year, there is one event that gives the people from the neighborhood and all over NYC to experience the eclectic culinary scene of the UWS in just one place
Taste of the Upper West Side 2018 took place on May 18th and 19th under the Grand Tent at O’Shea Complex Schoolyard, located on Columbus Avenue between 76th and 77th Streets. New Upper West Side restaurants were introduced to the public, as old-time favorites also made appearances. Adding to the fun of this annual food fest was live music, wine tastings and professional mixologists.
The event was broken down into two days with different themes. On Friday, May 18th, “Summer in the City” introduces highly-anticipated new restaurants and bars, along with longtime local favorites. This year’s honoree was Jacob Hadjigeorgis. Jacob is the owner of neighborhood favorites Jacob’s Pickles and Maison Pickle. As always, there was unlimited wine, spirits and music by DJ Phresh – all centered around innovative seasonal food prepared by 40 of the most popular restaurants on the Upper West Side. The restaurant that were yet to open but wanted to give the guests a taste was the savory Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co! Some of the new additions to the UWS present included Zen Taco, Twin Palms, Amelie, Make My Cake, Elea, Recolte, and Vai. Neighborhood favorites like Playa Betty’s, Jing Fong, Bodrum, AG Kitchen, and FishTag all brought their most delicious dishes to show out.
On Saturday, May 19th, “Best of the West” was presented by Park West Village Apartments. On this night, a lucky few had the chance to mingle with celebrity chefs at a limited attendance reception! The honoree is John Fraser, known for Dovetail, The Nix, Narcissa and The Loyal. VIP guests had a special seating area and early entree to the evening’s food, spirit, wine, and beer presentations, and direct access to the chefs before the main event. An hour later, general admission opened the doors to everyone else.
The event highlighted signature bars and mixologists, all prepared unique and delicious cocktails. Participants included Manhattan Cricket Club, Da Capo, Amelie, Guyer’s, Maison Pickle and Prohibition. Best of the West Honoree John Fraser served tastings from Dovetail, along with 40 other Upper West Side restaurants, including The LEOPARD at des Artistes, The Milling Room, Red Farm, Rosa Mexicano, and Crave Fishbar. Live music and entertainment was provided by Joe Battaglia & The New York Big Band further enhancing the ambiance of the Upper West Side’s most anticipated event of the year.
Upon entry guests were given a wine glass necklace – a plastic wine glass on a rubber necklace allowing patrons to double-fistfull bottles of beer and small plates. Almost everyone took these cups home noting how useful they will be at their next event. Everyone also received a bottle cap to deposit at your favorite restaurant in order to announce the overall most popular booth.
Getting to taste all the different cuisines in the neighborhood is only part of the fun. There was a nice couch area set up for those who wanted to step away and relax but I was too into the action to ever really take a seat.
At the end of the night, I have to say, you will hate yourself for many reasons. You will be completely stuffed with overly decedent and rich foods, and more than a few different types of alcohol. This event is absolutely on the list of NYC annual must attend.
Photos courtesy of TUWS
NYSPCC Junior Benefit Spring Soiree
Last Thursday, May 10th The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (The NYSPCC) held its annual Junior Benefit Committee Spring Soiree, this year titled "Bubbly & Bowling." Held at FISHBOWL at Dream Midtown; roughly 100 guests came out to raise money for The NYSPCC. Guests enjoyed music, drinks and a signature cocktail as they capture the night’s moments at the photo-booth. FISHBOWL gave its guests the chance to indulge in past-time - to play on the vintage arcade games and bowling lanes.
NYSPCC’s young philanthropists gather every year to assume social responsibility to raise awareness and essential funds for the efforts of the agency which includes helping children heal from abuse and neglect, and helping families grow stronger.
Guests bid on silent auction filled with highly coveted items such as designer items, amazing vacations, and sports jerseys. The spring benefit raised a large amount, which will be donated to help fund the NYSPCC’s programs.
Proceeds from the evening ensure New York City’s most vulnerable youth and families receive our life-changing and life-saving therapeutic services, free of charge, seven days-a-week.
From the fun atmosphere to the charitable cause, the NYSPCC’s annual spring benefit was not one to miss. Though fear not, the NYSPCC is sure to have another spring benefit next year! Be sure to come again around April-May to buy your ticket to support this wonderful organization.
The mission of The NYSPCC is to respond to the complex needs of abused and neglected children, and those involved in their care, by providing best practice counseling, legal, and educational services. Through research, communications and training initiatives, we work to expand these programs to prevent abuse and help more children heal.
The vision of The NYSPCC is for all children to be safe from abuse and neglect. The NYSPCC intends to accomplish this by establishing best practice primary, secondary, and tertiary child abuse and neglect prevention programs that serve the most complex and challenging cases. We can impact the child protection field by establishing a national presence through publication of our work and by teaching and training on local, state, and national levels. By achieving a national presence we will positively impact the lives of countless children and their families.
Photos courtesy of High10media
Bond No.9 "Bond Fire"
Bond No. 9 New York Perfumerie hosted a Bond Fire at a spectacular event on Tuesday, May 8th to promote international peace and celebrate the brand's partnership with the UN Women for Peace Association. Notable guests included: Laurice Rahmé, Muna Rihani Al-Nassar, Barbara Winston, Michal Grayevsky, Valbona Neritani, Avideh Ghaffari, Susan Gutfreund, Charlene Haroche, Alice Sun, May Zhao, Callie Leone, Leesa Rowland, Victor Roquette, Rachel Alonso-Mendoza, and Laura Day Webb who gathered to #BONDFORPEACE.
Held in the private restaurant at 432 Park Avenue, overseen by Michelin-Starred Chef Shaun Hergatt, Laurice Rahmé, Bond No. 9 Founder and CEO, Dame Muna Rihani Al-Nasser, Chairman and members of the Board of the UN Women for Peace Association and UN Ambassadors and Dignitaries lit 100 Bond No. 9 Scent of Peace Candles on the venue’s 5000 square foot terrace overlooking 57th Street to promote tolerance, respect and the creation of a peaceful world.
Guests were treated to performances by violinists Frédérique Gnaman, Rebecca Telford-Marx, and Meghan Todt, young alumnae of the Music Performance program at NYU Steinhardt.
Intended for men and women alike, The Scent of Peace (arguably the most beautifully civic-minded fragrance ever devised) starts off with sparkling, energizing grapefruit and black current notes, that soon are balanced by the sheer loveliness of lily of the valley, and by those mellowing base notes, cedarwood and musk. The flacon displays a dove in graceful flight. We see this emissary of peace soaring through our city, across the country, across the seas, bringing its message to the world.
Bond No. 9 is proud to partner with The UN Women For Peace Association. For every Scent of Peace candle sold leading up to Mother’s Day, Bond No. 9 will donate 1% of sales to further the organization’s mission and promote international peace for women, girls and for all. “As a brand our mission is not just to make new products, but do something bigger,” Laurice Rahmé, Founder and CEO, Bond No. 9 said.
The Scent of Peace is sold at Bond No. 9’s five retail boutiques in New York City, Saks Fifth Avenue, Select Bloomingdale’s and www.bondno9.com. Suggested Retail Price: $330 for 100ml eau de parfum; $230 for 50ml eau de parfum; Body Silk, $125; Scented Candle, $105
Photos courtesy of Marder + Company
RealEats goes Veggie
RealEats is the only meal subscription service offering fresh, healthy meals with ingredients sourced from New York’s Finger Lakes region, that are ready to eat in six minutes or less. Adapting sous-vide technology, RealEats offers fresh, convenient and thoughtfully sourced meals to consumers who care about what they eat, but may not have the time to shop, prep, cook and clean.
RealEats works with acclaimed chefs to create sophisticated meal options, and recently launched — just in time for summer! — three new vegetarian meals, including Farratto with peas, spring green onions and asparagus, Sumac Sweet Potatoes with quinoa tabbouleh and citrus labne, and Pasta Caponata with peppers, eggplant and ricotta.
In addition to the three new vegetarian meals, RealEats also added three new non-vegetarian meals to the menu, including Roast Chicken with mushrooms, potatoes and swiss chard, BBQ Brisket with red cabbage slaw and smashed potatoes, and Maple Rosemary Turkey with lentils and roasted beets, turnips, radishes, parsnips, red onions, celery and carrots.
Now offering 18 meal options, RealEats is currently available in 21 states with plans to expand to the Midwest and West Coast.
Photos courtesy of RealEats
EastmeetEast Ramen Competition
The EastMeetEast dating website and app held its first annual "EastMeetEast Singles Ramen Eating Competition" on Monday, April 23rd at the world-famous Gotham West Market. Demonstrating how to gobble up Ramen noodles as quickly as possible and judging the competition was six-time Nathan's Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Champion and eight-time Guinness World Record holder, Takeru Kobayashi.
EastMeetEast is a successful website and app for creating happy, passionate, and fulfilling relationships. Among the Asian population in North America, 29,079 individuals have found partners through the site so far.
"We wanted to do something fun and exciting to bring singles together in a non-traditional way," says EastMeetEast Founder Mariko Tokioka. "Having Kobayashi judge the competition and demonstrate is the icing on the cake. He not only brings his expertise to the event, but an exhilarating and dramatic flair wherever he goes. The excitement surrounding him is palpable."
Six contestants (4 male, 2 female) faced off in the competition. Behind every contestant were their EastMeetEast dating profiles, which had fun amazing facts about their lives to attract potential future partners.
Known for his trademark body wiggle- the "Kobayashi Shake", Kobayashi started off the competition by demonstrating to the contestants the keys to winning by slurping down 3 bowls in under 20 seconds.
After chowing down the grand total of 15 bowls! The winner was Wayne Algenio, a former Guinness world record holder for eating the most Carolina reapers (the hottest pepper in the world) in 1 minute. EastMeetEast will give Wayne an all-expense paid dream-date. "Maybe we can find someone for you" said Kenji, the marketer of EastMeetEast, after handing Wayne a prize envelope.
See the full highlight video below:
About EastMeetEast: EastMeetEast is a successful platform for creating happy, passionate, and fulfilling relationships. Thanks to EastMeetEast's high matching ratio among the Asian population in North America, 29,079 individuals have found partners through our site so far.
About Takeru Kobayashi: Takeru Kobayashi is a Japanese competitive eater. He is a six-time Nathan's Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Champion and eight-time Guinness World Record holder.
Photos Courtesy of EastmeetEast
McKayla Maroney Speaks at NYSPCC Luncheon
The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (The NYSPCC) held its annual Spring Luncheon on Tuesday, April 17th, at The Pierre hotel in Manhattan. This year’s Luncheon featured an intimate conversation between Olympic Gold Medalist McKayla Maroney and Dr. Mary L. Pulido, Executive Director of The NYSPCC, in McKayla’s first public remarks since revealing her abuse by former U.S. Women’s Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.
Maroney first broke her silence via the hashtag (#MeToo) movement trending after the Harvey Weinstein scandal. In the letter posted on twitter, Maroney detailed the abuse she endured under Nasser, and passionately urged that "Our silence has given the wrong people power for too long, and its time to take our power back" Her former "fierce five" Olympics teammate, Aly Raisman showed tremendous support as she also suffered the same abuse under Nasser.
In a room of 250 guests, Maroney discussed her road to recovery, her thoughts on USA Gymnastics, Michigan State University (MSU), and the United States Olympic Committee (USOC)’s role in enabling Nassar’s abuse, and what she plans to do moving forward.
“Within the gymnastics world, there’s no question we need to rebuild from the ground up so this never happens again,” Maroney said. “I definitely see a future where athletes are safe and succeeding. My team won gold medals in spite of USA Gymnastics, MSU, and the USOC. They don’t build champions, they break them. But we’re changing that.”
“I at times question if my gymnastics career was really even worth it because of the stuff I’m dealing with now, because sometimes you’re just left in the dust,” Maroney continued.“You have to pick up the pieces of your life. That has been the hardest part for me, but it’s always three steps forward, two steps back.”
Maroney also stressed the importance of prevention and awareness via initiatives like The NYSPCC’s Safe Touches program, and asked the crowd to contact their local representatives to push for legislation that will close New York state’s private school child abuse loophole; currently, private schools are not required to immediately report child sexual abuse as public schools are mandated to do.
“We are so grateful that McKayla chose to share her story with The NYSPCC,” said Dr. Pulido, who also delivered a heartfelt speech about the need to protect children from sexual abuse. “When you hear about a horrific story in the media like the indescribable abuse from Larry Nassar, it’s easy to become discouraged and lose hope. It’s The NYSPCC’s mission to help children who have endured abuse like McKayla’s with our trauma recovery program. We hope that her remarkable bravery both in her sport and in her personal life inspires others to join the fight to end child abuse.”
“McKayla’s remarks were inspiring,” added Karl Wellner, President of the Board of The NYSPCC. “Despite the fact that she is still healing from years of abuse, she showed up today to remind us why the work The NYSPCC does is so important. Programs like Safe Touches, our child sexual abuse prevention program, can ensure that what happened to McKayla never happens again, and her support of The NYSPCC is invaluable.”
Nassar was accused of sexually abusing more than 260 women and girls, and was sentenced in February to an additional 40-to-125 years in prison after approximately 200 of those women and girls spoke in person or through statements in court.
About NYSPCC
The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NYSPCC) was established in 1875 as the first child protection agency in the world. The NYSPCC laid the groundwork and assumed the main role in the protective investigation, removal, and placement of abused and neglected children when no other organization was willing. Today, we offer and promote programs aimed at the prevention of child maltreatment and the lessening of its harmful effects.
Since its incorporation 140 years ago, The NYSPCC has investigated more than 650,000 cases on behalf of over 2,000,000 children. The NYSPCC has also educated over 50,000 professionals who work with children on how to identify and report suspected child abuse and neglect.
Photos Courtesy of High10media
Parkinson's Foundation Celebrate Spring
The Parkinson’s Foundation hosted its 11th Annual Celebrate Spring New York event on Wednesday, April 11 at Lavo, New York City. More than 400 New Yorkers gathered at the famed night club for a night of partying and charity. It was truly an inspirational evening where family and friends came together, raising an outstanding $200,000, to bring awareness for a disease that affects the entire community and not just the afflicted person. Proceeds from the evening will support the foundation’s research programs.
George Oliphant, Katherine Kennedy, Torri Leeds, Brooke Boyd, and Penn Egbert
Celebrate Spring New York has become a hot ticket ever since it was conceived in 2008 by G. Pennington Egbert III, Missy Egbert Sheehan and Georgina B. Schaeffer. The trio started the Young New Yorkers for the Fight Against Parkinson’s committee to do exactly what the name of the group implies. Inspired by their fathers, who have lived with the condition, their goal is to help fund scientific research to find cure, as well as engage the next generation of philanthropists. Each year, the event brings out countless young supporters into the fold to help fund the work of future leaders in Parkinson’s research and care.
Rachel Moskowitz, Gregg Moskowitz, Scott Steinman and Leah Steinman
The extraordinary evening was a delectable affair, starting with rounds of unique cocktails and savory hors d'oeuvres, including tuna tartar, pizza margherita, and parmesan chicken. Music by DJ Brenda Black filled the room, where guests showed off their fancy footwork. An exciting live auction with prizes including many romantic getaways, a private stay at Tuxedo Park, and an eighteen-hole golf extravaganza at Fishers Island.
Kim Wolfberg and Adam Wolfberg
Parkinson’s disease, a disorder of the central nervous system that affects movement and often includes tremors and impaired balance, affects up to 1 million people in the U.S. Doctors diagnose as many as 60,000 new cases each year. The Parkinson’s Foundation is working toward a world without Parkinson’s disease and improving the lives of people with Parkinson’s and their families through improved treatments, support and the best care.
Penn Egbert, Missy Egbert Sheehan, and Jonathan Romero
Throughout the years, Celebrate Spring New York has raised more than one million dollars for Parkinson’s Disease Foundation. The dream of being Parkinson’s disease free is getting closer every day.
To donate or become a volunteer for the Parkinson’s Foundation, please visit www.pdf.org/csny
Photo Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/PMC via Getty Images
About the Parkinson’s Foundation
The Parkinson’s Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson’s disease by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. In everything we do, we build on the energy, experience and passion of our global Parkinson’s community. For more information, visit www.parkinson.org or call (800) 4PD-INFO (473-4636).
About Parkinson’s Disease
Affecting an estimated one million Americans and 10 million worldwide, Parkinson’s disease is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s and is the 14th-leading cause of death in the United States. It is associated with a progressive loss of motor control (e.g., shaking or tremor at rest and lack of facial expression), as well as non-motor symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety). There is no cure for Parkinson’s and 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States alone.
Rock'n'Roll at SUSHI ROXX
If you’re looking for a restaurant experience unlike any other, turn to Sushi Roxx. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this Japanese restaurant offers both delicious food and a live dance show, performed by none other than the waiters and waitresses, who are also talented singers and dancers. But this isn't the Stardust Diner. Sushi Roxx is a little more selective with their musical choices: their show “We Will Roxx You” only features music from world famous rock artists such as Aerosmith, AC/DC, Lenny Kravitz, and Journey.
Although the restaurant has been open for a few years, it has recently launched a series of new menu items in order to go along with the musical dining experience. The venue, which exudes romantic Asiatic influences, offers delicious specialty cocktails named after Marvel and DC superheroes, such as the Green Lantern (Jameson, blue curacao, peach, lemon), the Skywalker (Avion Silver, honeydew, agave, lime, jalapeno, basil), and the Black Panther (Aviation, Creme De Cassis, blackberry, lime), as well as additional food items, such as sushi pizzas and rolls with combinations varying from spicy tuna to lobster. There is something for everyone to enjoy while singing along to some of the most popular throwback songs of the 20th Century.
For those craving something sweet to finish off the night, fun desserts, such as Nutella S’mores (nutella, marshmallow, graham cracker), Berries and Creme (seasonal berries, lemon, schlag), and Death by Birthday Cake (chocolate cake, whipped cream, chocolate fudge, vanilla cream) are just a few choices of sweets available for anyone interested in getting a sugar rush after a gleeful night.
If you’re up for some old school music with a fun twist and delicious food, or would like to spice things up by visiting a new restaurant in the midst of New York City, make sure to reserve a table at Sushi Roxx by visiting http://sushiroxxnyc.com/, and check out the menu by clicking here.
Photos courtesy of SUSHI ROXX
BELLA Cover featuring Jillian Michaels
On Thursday, March 22, 2018, Jillian Michaels hosted BELLA’s influencer cover launch party at Mr. Jones in SoHo. Guests checked out the latest cover while sipping on 1907 Water and prosecco provided by Prosecco DOC.
Genesis Fertility was on hand talking to women about such reproductive treatments at egg freezing. Other sponsors included wereUniversity Pain Management Center and Lenox Hill Hospital.
Jillian, known for her badass approach to transforming lives on TV shows like The Biggest Loser and Sweat Inc., has made a name for herself as America's toughest trainer. When Jillian was 12 years old, she was 5'2 and weighed 175 pounds. After verbal torment by her classmates, she decided to change for the better and now at 36, and with abs to kill, she has become one of America's most famous fitness trainers.
Guests included Courtenay Hall (BELLA Editor-in-Chief), Daniel Hall (BELLA Chief Brand Strategist), Doug Wilson (TLC’s Trading Spaces), Monte Bezell (NBC’s “The Blacklist”), Joe “Monk”Pardavila (95.5 WPLJ), Donald Paul (FX’s “Atlanta”), Carter Redwood(actor, “The Long Road Home” & NBC’s “Rise”), Steve Stranulis (Actor/Director “Clinton Road”), Jake Allyn (BET’s “The Quad”), Thalia Almodovar (VH1’s “Beauty Bar”), Heide Lindgren (model), Carey Murphy (model), Dani Seitz (model), Damaris Lewis (model), Courtney Davis (comedian), Olga Namer (comedian), Dr. Tabasum Mir (Bravo’s “The Singles Project”), Any Peeke (TV Host), Valerie Greenberg (lifestyle expert).
Photos Courtesy of Steve White
The Hotline
A very special organization exists called The Hotline. We had the pleasure of attending a night of conversation at Sisley Paris for The Hotline, where we got to meet Katie Ray-Jones, the CEO, and learn more about the organization.
The Hotline is the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and it is so much more than a phone number. It is the only 24/7 national organization that has access to service providers and shelters across the United States to help people affected by domestic violence. When you go to their website you are greeted by a pop-up that tells you what to do in case you are worried about your internet usage being monitored. On their website you have access to details on what makes a relationship abusive in any sense, resources for victims and survivors, an informative blog, ways to get involved, and an online chat for those who are not able to make a phone call. The website covers all areas for someone looking for help or someone simply looking to get educated. The mission of The Hotline is to answer the call to support and shift the power back to people affected by relationship abuse. In a time where more and more people are gaining the courage to come forward and use their voice, organizations like this are so important.
Katie Ray-Jones is an exceptionally inspiring woman who has done so much for the domestic violence movement. She started as a therapist for victims, managed a shelter for victims, and managed the funding for the family violence program at the Health and Human Services Commission with the state of Texas before applying for a job with The Hotline and rising to the position of Chief Executive Officer. She is incredibly passionate about what she does and is looking for more ways to expand The Hotline to be even more helpful every day. Although this line of work can be emotionally draining, Katie Ray-Jones remains the strong, nurturing woman that these victims need when they call.
On average, twenty-four people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. Nearly half of all women and men in the United States have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Coming forward not only helps the victim, it also encourages others to do the same. For more information about The Hotline, visit their website at http://www.thehotline.org.
Special thanks to Stacy Dreyfus from The National Domestic Violence Hotline
The 63nd Viennese Opera Ball
The 63rd Viennese Opera Ball took place on February 2nd, 2018, at the legendary and newly reopened Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. The annual white tie charity gala celebrates the cultural and economic relationships between Austria and America, connecting two continents, two cities and two centuries in one glamorous night. Founded by Austrians immigrating to the United States more than 63 years ago, the night is a tribute to both their former home town,Vienna, and their new host city, New York.
Widely considered as one of New York City’s greatest annual events, the celebration has garnered international media coverage for more than five decades. The white tie attire, considered the most formal dress code, calls for all gentlemen to be outfitted in white tie and tailcoats with decorations, and for all the ladies wear long floor-length ball gowns and opera gloves.
Regarded as the most prestigious and oldest Viennese Opera Ball outside of Vienna, the festival drew a global audience that included diplomats and dignitaries, international corporations and celebrities. There event was nothing short of magnificent; and with four generations of guests, the Ball reflects the universal appeal of Austria’s traditional and culinary treasures.
Each year the Viennese Opera Ball supports charitable projects that are connected to communities in New York or Vienna. The proceeds of the 63rd Viennese Opera Ball will benefit the music therapy program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center with the support from Gabrielle's Angel Foundation for Cancer Research.
The gala evening featured Opera, Classical Music and Ballroom Dancing including, of course, Waltzing. One popular highlight was the Midnight Quadrille, conducted by Ms. Stockmayer.
The Ball opened with the Grand March of Dignitaries and Diplomats. The ceremonial tone of the Ball Opening continued with the Presentation and Posting of the Flags by a West Point Cadet Color Guard. Mr. Serafin then welcomed and thanked the debutantes, escorts and guests, before ballet dancers entered and performed accompanied by the orchestra, Divertimento Viennese. René Pape, operatic Bass and two-time Grammy Award Winner, then performed Le veau d’or from Faust by Gounod.
The Debutantes and Escorts then made their entrance, led by choreographer Sandra Stockmayer, who also acts as choreographer for the Vienna Opera Ball. The program continued with the Presentation of Debutantes and their dance Escorts. A choreographed waltz routine by young ballroom dance couples is followed by a call for "Alles Walzer!" (Everyone Dance!) and guests joined the dancers for the first official waltz of the Ball.
The Ball was literally a celebration from night till the break of dawn. Following a champagne reception, the Ball ran from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., and included a four-course dinner. The guests gained new strength at the late-night Austrian specialty buffet after a long evening of fête. The “Tanz Bar” (post-Ball party) followed from 1:00 to 4:00 a.m, and included a full buffet supper with the Viennese Opera Ball's Signature Goulash Soup, as well as multiple venues featuring: a DJ, Vienna Coffee House with Viennese pastries, and a Casino.
The event hosted nearly 400 guests including Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Peter Thomas Roth, CEO, Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care, Viennese Opera Ball Executive Director Silvia Frieser, Actress Selenis Leyva, Designer Nicole Miller, Two time Grammy winner Rene Pape, and International Committee member Laine Siklos, among others, all praised the debutantes and performers, and noted the event’s importance to the social and cultural fabric of New York City.
A special thank you to the lovely Laine Siklos, who provided us the invitation for the special evening.
New York Times Travel Show
The 15th anniversary for North America’s largest travel show was held on January 26 - 28, 2018 at Jacob K. Javits Center, NYC.
Exhibitors representing 170 countries participated in the 2018 Show. The Show floor is separated into 18 Pavilions and include: Adventure, Africa, Asia, Australia/South Pacific, Canada, Caribbean, Cruise, Europe, Family, Global, Latin America, Mexico, River Cruises, Sponsors,Taste of the world, Travel Products, LGBTQ and the USA.
It offered opportunity to memorize special moment to take a photo with people dressed in costumes utilizing the characteristics of each country made their booth more valuable.
South Korea, who will host the 2018 Winter Olympics, presented the mascots of the Pyeongchang Olympic.
Exhibitors boasted the diverse charm of their country by cooking their traditional foods for guests to taste. Patrons enjoyed not only drinks and light bites, but also a vivacious atmosphere.
Travel professionals had the opportunity to attend these exclusive seminars to share their precious knowledge. Experience for developing travel knowledge by attending their top-notch seminar in intense attention was extremely fascinating and compelling.
For more information click here
#DRinNYC
Looking for the perfect winter getaway? I’ll let you in on a secret (pun intended): it’s the Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa in the Dominican Republic.
The resort, which is located on the eastern tip of the island, boasts ocean views, a full service salon, and eight elegant restaurants reserved exclusively for guests. In addition to their top tier accomodations, the resort offers a multitude of activities for guests to partake in, including beach volleyball, aerobics, dance lessons, snorkeling, sailing, and even Spanish classes.
At night, guests have the option of staying in or watching a movie on the beach, listening to live music or seeing a show at the indoor theatre. The resort also hosts themed party nights for those who need a break from relaxing. What more could you want?
To demonstrate the quality of their hospitality, Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa, along with the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism, hosted a “Day in the Dominican Republic” at the Royalton Park Avenue Rooftop in NYC.
True to their word as a first class spa resort, the event featured a spray tanning booth and manicure stations, along with Caribbean inspired bites and refreshing passionfruit cocktails. Many guests also took fun pictures with the preset photobooth, which proudly displayed the hashtag #DRinNYC. All these elements made the Royalton Rooftop the perfect first taste of what life could be like...down in the DR.
So if you’re hoping to get out of shoveling the next time we get hit with a blizzard, check out the Secrets Cap Cana Resort…. the Dominican Republic’s best kept secret.
Photos courtesy of #DRinNYC
Coyote Ugly Saloon turns 25th
Everybody knows Coyote Ugly, the much-loved local dive bar that transformed into an international icon after the success of the movie of the same name. in the aftermath of the The bar has been a fix in the village for celebration of all occasions. Ever since its opening, out-of-towners flooded the New York City bar, which quickly became a favorite stop for tour buses. A fun place like no other, wild, wild and wild.
Coyote Ugly Saloon celebrated their 25th Anniversary in New York City on January 28, 2018. Founder and muse behind the 2000 movie, Coyote Ugly, Liliana Lovel (aka“Lil”) celebrated with a packed bar of family, friends, and the famous Coyote Ugly girls boot stomping on top of the bar.
Justina Valentine of MTV’s Wild ‘n Out performed freestyle on top of the Coyote Ugly bar while roasting the crowd alongside two dancers. Continuing with their tradition of providing fans with the unexpected, a contortionist showed off her flexibility while a bearded lady hosted a beard contest, and New York City’s famous Naked Cowboy closed out the event while performing ‘Pour Some Sugar On Me.’
Also in attendance were Drita D’Avanzo of VHI1’s Mob Wives, Broderick Hunter of HBO’s Insecure, Donald Paul of FX’s Atlanta/ABC’s Quantico, and Monte Bezell of NBC’s The Black List.
About Coyote Ugly Saloon
Coyote Ugly Saloon is the most famous bar on the planet with 26 locations in 8 countries, with more locations opening every year, including Japan in February 2018. The Coyote Ugly legend began in 1992 when Liliana Lovel (aka“Lil”), a 24-year old Wall Street apprentice-turned-bartender gained notoriety for her antics on the bar, as well as behind it. Tired of working for other people, Lil was ready to make her move. The plan was simple; open her own bar, make money, and have fun doing it. Determined not to let anyone or anything get in her way, she drew up a business plan and the first Coyote Ugly Saloon opened its doors on January 27, 1993. Over the years Coyote Ugly has meant different things to different people. Some come in just to get yelled at by Lil and to drink cheap tequila out of her boots.
Coyote Ugly Saloon quickly established itself in the hearts of New Yorkers as the preeminent drinking establishment when it gained national attention in early 1997. The article, “The Muse of the Coyote Ugly Saloon”- written by former Coyote bartender Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Pray, Love) for GQ- directed a spotlight on the little bar in the East Village. Shortly after that, Hollywood came knocking and the movie rights to Lil’s story were sold. “Coyote Ugly” opened in movie theatres in August 2000 starring Piper Perabo and Maria Bello. It grossed more than $100 million and a worldwide audience quickly learned what the phrase “We don’t serve water here!” meant.
Photos courtesy of Coyote Ugly Saloon