Fiesta Gala 2019 Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education
The Plaza Hotel, New York City
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
HONORED
Ambassador Mary Ourisman Dawkins and Brigadier General Peter Dawkins · John Hardy Jewelry · Edgar Legaspi · Juan Montoya
Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education’s annual gala, Fiesta, was held at The Plaza Hotel on October 15, 2019. The evening honored Ambassador Mary Dawkins and Brigadier General Peter Dawkins, John Hardy Jewelry, Edgar Legaspi, and Juan Montoya with the Casita Maria Gold Medals of Honor. The evening’s host was Sissi Fleitas. The award is bestowed to individuals in recognition of their contribution to the worlds of arts, education and philanthropy.
Upon arrival, InvitedNYC was escorted to the famous Grand Ballroom where the festive evening began with cocktails, followed by a dinner dance to the tune of Bob Hardwick’s Latin inspired tunes.
Juan Montoya, Jackie Weld Drake, Ambassador Mary Dawkins, General Peter Dawkins, Edgar Legaspi and Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, PMC/Gonzalo Marroquin
“Casita Maria has been a second home and safe haven for kids and their families for more than 80 years,” introduced host Sissi Fleitas. “It's really a blessing and an honor to serve as executive director of the first and oldest Latino charity in all of New York City,” said Haydee Morales. “Welcome! I am here to be brief and grateful,” said Jackie Weld Drake.
Left: InvitedNYC’s Jodie Lichtenstein Right: Alexa Depesquale (Photo belongs to GettyImage photographer Gonzalo Marroquin W.)
“The Casita Maria enterprise is a remarkable one that for decades has done such wonderful things for this community,” said Pete Dawkins upon receiving his Gold Medal. “I would just like to add my congratulations to the other recipients of this wonderful award,” added Mary Dawkins. “To see such kindness and thoughtfulness at Casita really touched my heart,” said Juan Montoya. “Community and support are the most important things we can nurture. You all are an inspiration.”
Adwoa in John Hardy Jewelry at Casita Maria Fiesta, PMC/Gonzalo Marroquin
Edgar Legaspi, on stage with his family, said, “We believe we have a mission to help people through education. I would like to encourage people to help Casita. It’s not about money, it’s about effort and time.” John Hardy Jewelry’s CEO Kareem Gahed, said, “Thank you from all of the generations of artisans, wax carvers, chain weavers, inspired employees, and passionate leaders at John Hardy.”
Model Adwoa Aboah attended with Gahed. She is the latest face of John Hardy, joining Pénelope Cruz and Julianne Moore. Aboah was adorned with John Hardy’s jewelry.
The Dinner Chairmen were Jacqueline Weld Drake, HRH Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Urban Karlsson, Mary Snow, and Joan Steinberg. Honorary Chairmen were Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Elizabeth Peabody, and Carlos Souza. Past honorees have included Santiago Calatrava, Roberto Cavalli, Agnes Gund, Audrey Hepburn, Carolina Herrera, Daisy Soros, and Lynn Wyatt. Pachanga Chairs co-chairs were Victor Roquette and Sabrina Wirth.
Among the guests were Adwoa Aboah, Liza and Sergio Alvarez, Peter Bacanovic, Tony Bechara and Carolina von Humboldt, Tina and Simon Beriro, Violaine and John Bernbach, Cathie and Tom Black, Mercedes Bograd-Levin, Martha Bograd, Geoffrey Bradfield, Halim Bulos, Lady Liliana Cavendish, Marie de Foucaud and Renaud de Tilly, Their Royal Highnesses Crown Princess Marie-Chantal of Greece and Crown Prince Pavlos of Greece, Susan Gutfreund, Mai Hallingby Harrison, Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Alice Kandell, Eleanora Kennedy, Andrew Kepler, Ann-Hunter Van Kirk, Michèle Gerber Klein, Margo Langenberg, Alicia Lubowski, Mary McFadden, Grace and Chris Meigher, Malu and Sergio Millerman, Ann Nitze, Gautam Patel, Tom Quick, Ann Rapp, Pepita Serrano, Hunt Slonem, Benny Tabatabai, Ted Taylor, Barbara and Donald Tober, Monica and Ali Wambold, Daniela Wambold, Marina Wambold, and Maria Celis Wirth.
Fiesta is arguably the best party in New York. It attracts a glamorous international crowd for a lively evening that is light on speeches and great fun, all in the service of our serious purpose. Much of the operating budget of the organization is raised at the event.
About The Honorees:
Ambassador Mary Ourisman Dawkins
Ambassador Mary Ourisman Dawkins served as U.S. Ambassador to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, a total of seven countries simultaneously. She is a longtime supporter of the arts, along with community involvement, as well as a supporter of the R.N.C. and the Republican Governors’ Association. She was appointed by President George W. Bush as a Trustee of the Kennedy Center, and is a founding member and co-chair of the International Committee of the Arts. She has served on numerous arts boards including the Washington National Opera, American Ballet Theater, and the Smithsonian Institution. All this in addition to her work on behalf of The American Red Cross as past Chair of the Red Cross, and the Prince of Wales Foundation, Friends of the Uffizi, and many others. She continues her philanthropic and artistic interests in Palm Beach where she spends the winter, as a member of the Preservation Society, Four Arts, and the Palm Beach Civic Association.
Brigadier General Peter Dawkins
Pete Dawkins is a senior advisor to Virtu Financial. At West Point, he was President of the Class of 1959, Captain of Army’s undefeated football team. An all-American halfback, he won the Heisman Trophy and was selected as a Rhodes Scholar. Pete remains active in a variety of national, financial, community and philanthropic roles, serving on the board of the Wharton Business School’s Center for Leadership and Change Management and the Intrepid Museum. Time magazine identified Pete as one of the “Top 50 Leaders in the U.S.”
John Hardy Jewelry
Inspired by Bali and its time-honored jewelry-making traditions, John Hardy’s artisan collective was founded in 1975 with a dedication to handcrafted jewelry. John Hardy Jewelry is committed to sustainable luxury business practices, their craftspeople and the preservation of Bali. They pride themselves on the value of authenticity; it is the soul of community that makes each piece truly one of a kind.
Edgar Legaspi
Edgar Legaspi is a Partner and Head of Coverage for Mexico, Latin America and Spain at BDT & Company. He also serves on the Investment Committee for BDT Capital Partners. Edgar has more than 25 years of investment banking and principal investment experience. Prior to joining BDT, Edgar ran Morgan Stanley’s Principal Investments Latin American group. Prior to joining Morgan Stanley, Edgar was a Managing Director at Credit Suisse and CEO of Credit Suisse First Boston, Mexico. Edgar also was a General Partner and Managing Director at Lazard Frères & Co. Edgar is a director of Casa Dragones.Edgar is a trustee of the Gabriela Legaspi Foundation and the Alianza Medica Foundation. Edgar received an MsC from Northwestern University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University Of Pennsylvania.
Joan Montoya
Juan Montoya is one of the most acclaimed and prolific interior designers in the world today. Juan Montoya was born and spent his early years in Colombia. After studying architecture in Bogotá, he moved to New York where he graduated from Parsons School of Design. Following two years of work and study in Paris and Milan, he returned to New York, where he founded the design business he has presided over since. His firm specializes in residential and contract interior design, with projects located throughout the United States and Internationally. A member of the Interior Design Hall of Fame, a recipient of an honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from Parsons School of Design, A Doctorate from New York School of Interior Design, Star of Design Award, and the Legends Award from Pratt Institute. His contributions to the field of interior design are widely recognized. He is also included in AD100 since its inaugural list, AD Collector (France) top 100, AD 30 Deans of Design and a Grand Master on Elle Decor's A-list.
A truly original thinker, Juan Montoya is not wedded to a particular style or period. Initially labeled a minimalist, his work has evolved dramatically since he first came to the public's attention. The great diversity found in Juan Montoya’s work notwithstanding, it is possible to trace elements that constitute the Montoya look in all his interiors. The exquisite juxtaposition of textures, colors and volumes, together with thoughtful attention to shadows, scale and spatial quality, resulting in interiors that exude refinement and elegant simplicity. Through the careful placement of objects, that often reflect his interest in a variety of cultures, Montoya enhances the qualities of a room or of an entire apartment or house.
Host, Sissi Fleitas
Sissi Fleitas is a prominent model, presenter and actress best known for her work on “Sabado Gigante.” She has appeared in the telenovela “Los Secretos de Lucia” and various films across Latin America.
About Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education
Casita Maria, the oldest Latin charity in New York City, provides high-quality, innovative arts programming to over 1,000 students daily both during and after school, producing participatory, well-rounded individuals who go on to fulfill their dreams. Located in the country’s poorest zip code, the South Bronx, Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education creates a safe and welcoming community, enriching and uplifting youth and families towards success, through shared cultural, art and educational experiences and programs.
TOP OCTOBER NYC EVENTS
NYCWFF is considered the largest wine and food festival in New York City with more than 100 events and widely recognized for its tastings in celebration of America’s favorite foods, intimate dinners with world-renowned chefs, late night parties, hands-on classes, educational seminars, wine tastings and more. Over 50,000 passionate gourmands and aficionados sip, swirl and savor world-class cuisine, wine and spirits served up by the industry’s finest.
2. New York Comic Con 2019
The New York Comic Con is an annual New York City fan convention dedicated to Western comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, cosplay, toys, movies, and television.
3. American Ballet Theatre – Fall Gala
ABT’s annual fundraising event at the David H. Koch Theater features a performance followed by dinner and dancing. The ABT Fall Gala raises funds for the Company, as well as ABT’s Education and Outreach programs.
Downtown’s premier food festival, Taste of the Seaport, will return for the 10th year of food, fun and fundraising on Saturday, October 19th from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Pier 16 and 17 in the Seaport District of New York City. Taste of the Seaport brings together over 40 of the best restaurants in Lower Manhattan and showcases an array of local vendors, artisans, entertainers and family friendly activities, making it the perfect day out for children and adults alike. The event will be followed by a fun-filled Front Street Block Party from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. to keep the party going.
For more information, please visit www.tasteoftheseaport.org
Event: Bon Appétit’s Hot 10 Party
Venue: Industry City, 238 36th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232
Date/Time: Oct. 19, 2019 6-10 PM
Price: Tickets starting at $199 (GA)
Website: BABestWeekendEver.com/Hot10
Description:The ultimate ticket to party side-by-side with Bon Appétit’s Test Kitchen and the Hot 10—America’s Best New Restaurants.
This October, Bon Appétit will host its annual Hot 10 Party. For one night only, the Hot 10—America’s Best New Restaurants will all be in one place for an over-the-top bash. And we want you there. We’re talking unlimited food and drinks from this year’s Hot 10 restaurants (TBA in September!), hang time with your favorite BA editors, and all the good vibes you can handle.
Tickets for the Hot 10 Party on October 19 in Brooklyn, NY are on sale now atBABestWeekendEver.com/Hot10
6. Angel Ball 2019
As the signature fundraising event of Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation, the Angel Ball boasts an audience of nearly 1000 high-net-worth supporters, celebrities, influencers, executives and philanthropists at this annual celebration of life, music, and our quest for a cure.
The black-tie benefit hosted by Grammy-nominated songwriter Denise Richand her daughters Daniella Rich Kilstockand Ilona Rich Schachter, is an evening to honor the memory of Gabrielle Rich Aouadand benefits Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research, which funds the best and brightest early career scientists whose research focuses on finding less toxic treatments for patients with leukemia, lymphoma and other related blood cancers.
Queer Eyehost Karamo Brown emceed the evening, which featured an unforgettable line-up of performances – including an acoustic set by Ashlee Simpson-Rossand Evan Ross; Grammy nominated artist, Julia Michaelswho performed her hits Issues and Heaven. At the end of the night, guests took the dance floor for performances by Daryl “DMC” McDaniels and the legendary Morris Day and The Timeperformed. They then danced the night away to DJ KISS.
Sponsors for the event include celebrity jeweler Lorraine Schwartz,Porsche Cars North America, ALECIA, Casa Noble Tequilaand Pomp & Whimsy. Event décor was provided byBirch Event Designs.
The Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, the multidisciplinary arts center based in the diverse community of Southeast Queens, will host its annual Fall Benefit Event on October 29, 2019. This year the event is focused on Celebrating a Creative Jamaica, honoring a community that has produced a long and diverse list of important artistic contributors.
The Honorees this year reflect the very best in their fields - Obba Babatunde, actor, producer, director, singer, Emmy Award Winner, Tony Nominee, and NAACP Trailblazer Award recipient; Marilyn F. Booker a Morgan Stanley veteran of over 25-years, she is Managing Director at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, and is head of Morgan Stanley's Urban Markets Group; Jumaane D. Williams is the Public Advocate of the City of New York and previously served on the City Council representing the 45th District.
JCAL provides important arts programming to the immediate community and the great New York City area. It is a rich resource for individuals of all age and sits at a crossroad of international, national and local importance between two of the busiest international airports (JFK & LGA), and a leading center of finance, business, trade, and the arts - New York City.
To Purchase Tickets/Donate -https://www.jcal.org/annualfundraiser
7th Annual NYC Autumn Wine Festival is our most elegant tasting of the year, conveniently located in Manhattan. It’s an awesome opportunity to sample a large variety of wines enhanced by a light menu of hors-d’oeuvres, cheese, crackers, crudité and pasta. And if that’s not enough, artisanal food makers — many local to the NY area — sample their products, including charcuterie, baked goods, sweets, savory items and more.
VIP Rosé & Bubbly Suite: The event offers a VIP experience in a luxurious area with 20+ Rosés and Sparkling wines. The VIP Rosé & Bubbly Suite will feature exclusive wines, a special food menu, gourmet chocolate and more. The menu will spotlight artisanal cheeses and delights not available in the general admission portion of the event. Ticket holders will be able to go between the Suite and the main tasting freely. **VIP ticket purchase is required for access to the Rosé & Bubbly Suite.
ABOUT THE 2019 NYC AUTUMN WINE FESTIVAL:
In its 7th year, the NYC Autumn Wine Festival showcases 100+ wines curated by our experts. Select other beverages and spirits will also be sampled. Wines range from full-bodied reds to crisp whites to intriguing blends. VIP tickets will offer access to a Rosé and Bubbly Suite with 20+ rosés and sparkling wines.
Participating wineries will show selections from the world’s leading wine regions — France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, California, New Zealand, Australia, Portugal, and Austria.
A selection of New York State wines will be showcased at the event, with several NY State Farm wineries selling selections by the bottle for guests to take out and enjoy at home. You’ll meet these talented winemakers and hear first-hand about their winemaking process.
Chelsea’s landmark Altman Building will transform into an indoor vineyard, where attendees will taste world-class wine, feast on light hors-d'oeuvres and artisanal snacks.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/nyc-autumn-wine-festival-tickets-52897404561?aff=ebdssbdestsearch
Algemeiner’s 6th Annual J100 Gala
Photos courtesy of PMC/Sean Zanni for The Algemeiner
I may not have met my Nice Jewish Boy but that was not what the evening was about (thought I would’ve been an added bonus.) This night, billed as the Jewish answer to the TIME 100, was the Algemeiner’s 6th Annual J100 Gala 1where significant individuals influencing Jewish life are recognized. Held in New York at Gotham Hall, there was a large turnout from supporters in the Jewish community who understand the importance of these new 100 inductees.
Photos courtesy of PMC/Sean Zanni for The Algemeiner
Now celebrating its 47th anniversary, The Algemeiner has been labeled the "fastest growing Jewish newspaper in the US" and been described by former Israeli Ambassador Ron Prosor as “the voice of the Jewish people and Israel. It is fitting that a prestigious and empowering paper hosted an event honoring those with the same qualities advocating for the Jewish people. The just announced 2019 list included Alex Rodriguez and Jennifer Lopez, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Sacha Baron Cohen, Julian Edelman, Karlie Kloss and Jared Kushner, Jake Tapper, Lachlan Murdoch. The full list, and a description of why they were chosen, can be found at Algemeiner.com/the-top-100-people-positively-influencing-jewish-life-2019
Editor in Chief and CEO, Dovid Efune, and Publisher Simon Jacobson welcomed guests including Actor Sir Ben Kingsley and U.K. Channel 4 TV star Rachel Riley who were specially honored at The Algemeiner’s at the September 26th gala. Themes of the evening included Efune’s question about how the tragic story of antisemitism ends and how they are determined that it shall never be said that under their watch the beast of antisemitism reawakened and did so unopposed.
Photos courtesy of PMC/Sean Zanni for The Algemeiner
Holocaust survivor Halina Silber, number 16 on Oskar Schindler's list, presented Kingsley the newspaper’s illustrious Warrior For Truth award for his 1993 portrayal of Itzhak Stern in the movie, Schindler's List. Riley’s award was presented by Dr. Sonat Birnecker Hart, President of the World Jewish Congress Diplomatic Corps. The U.K. star told her story on how just a year ago she thought “antisemitism wasn’t a ‘thing’ anymore” and now, she says it’s one of the probably the biggest honors of her life to be there tonight because of her voice.
CEO of Talent Resources, Michael David Heller, was also honored, receiving the award from dear friend Kelly Bensimon The evening's Master of Ceremonies was CNN journalist Bianna Golodryga. Speakers included Consul General of Israel in New York Ambassador Dani Dayan, David Sterling and Ben Newhouse. Guests included Ira and Ingeborg Rennert, the Mayor of Beverly Hills John A. Mirisch, Sima and Morad Ghadamian, David Steinmann, George Farmer, Joseph and Deborah Aronow, Sam Herzberg, Shalom and Iris Maidenbaum, Gail Propp, Michael and Dana Cohen, Richard Miller, Mark Moskowitz, Ariel and Aleta Grunberg, Michael and Tanya Grunberg, Martin Sanders, Sol and Meri Barer, Jeffrey H. Rosen, Jonathan Holtzman, Ron Agam, James Taranto, Rickie Freeman, Buck Sexton, Dominic Green, Marty Peretz, Jere Van Dyk, Sir Clive Gillinson, Tuvia Tenenbom, Tunku Varadarajan, and Erwin Pearl. Event Chairs were Robert H. and Amy Book, and Neil and Sharon Book. Honorary Chairman was Bernard-Henri Levy.
Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour on the Gotham Hall balcony overlooking the main ballroom. The rest of the evening was spent watching the ceremony from tables and served a plated dinner.
Photos courtesy of PMC/Sean Zanni for The Algemeiner
NY True World Foods Expo: Beyond a Culinary Experience
I love food, and I love cooking. This is why it is VERY important to me to have access to high-quality products. I want the organic, and the finest. It is really the secret of a good dish. But here in NYC, it’s not always easy to have access to the best, which made me always wonder: Where do NYC’s 5-star-restararants get their ingredients from? The city heard me and answered my question with this month’s NY True World Foods Expo. It is an exciting professional culinary showcase that highlights wholesalers’ top quality fish and seafoods sources, both domestically and internationally.
This year, the exposition mainly specialized in sushi ingredients, while also exhibiting exotic and never-seen-before products. I wasn’t going to miss that. So, I went to the Metropolitan Avenue where the event was taking place: The room was huge, and full of stands, fish meat, live sea animals, foreign vegetables, and professional knives. There were vendors from the Williams Wharf Oyster company, the Japanese, Sugimoto Tea Company, and the Ichimasa Kamaboko Co. (that specializes in different samurai ramen and Kaisen Sara Udon), the event included a diversity of international brands that were offering food samples. I had a taste of the best, and tried never-experienced before flavors: a melty caviar from Calvisius USA’s, and tender meat from Pocino Foods Co (which imports its products straight from Australia and Japan).
The food was thrilling (of course), but it wasn’t the main reason why I LOVED the event. The True World Foods Expo was more of a learning-experience. For instance, it included impressive, never-seen before shows: The small sushi rolls that we eat come from a HUGE fish, with a head bigger than humans’. In the time that I’ve spent there, I saw a live King Crab and Spot Prawns, as well as a live cutting show of a Japanese and Spanish Bluefin tunas.
But the main reason why I absolutely loved it, was that this whole exposition was much more than a culinary experience. It was a cultural experience. Guy Fieri says it best: “Cooking is all about people. Food is maybe the only universal thing that realy has the power to bring everyone together. no matter what culture, everywhere around the world, people get together to eat”. This is exactly what I felt at the exposition, as I was walking between the stand, and enjoying EVERY bite I had (from ramen, to poke, sushi rolls, miso soup, matcha dessert, red-bean icecream..). Then, I saw something unusual, sitting in a jar of water. I approached the stand and asked the woman what it was. It turned out to be wasabi, the actual plant. It looks like a big, green root, and tastes nothing like the wasabi paste. I have been eating fake wasabi my entire life, and I didn’t even know it. I was shocked to this discovery, and even stunned to how it tastes. It has the same texture and freshness as a radish, and is (way) less spicy than the wasabi paste. It is really delicious!
I was enjoying my time so much, that I stayed till the end of the event, when stands were clearing out their displays. The room was getting empty, and I was getting myself ready to leave. But as I was heading towards the exit, a kind gentleman asked me if I wanted to take one of his products homes. My inner chef was super happy. I thanked him, and I picked the wild mushrooms. That night, I went back home excited, knowing what to cook for dinner. “I’m definitely coming back next year,” I thought to myself, as I shut the door behind me.
Citi Taste of Tennis 2019
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
On Thursday, August 22, Citi Taste of Tennis celebrated their 20th anniversary. As a premier lifestyle event on the tennis tour, Citi's Taste of Tennis has been offering foodies and tennis fans amazing experiences of incredible cuisine prepared by top local chefs and "served" by the top pro tennis players for 2 decades.
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
The tennis world gathered at the iconic Cipriani in New York City to kick off the 2019 U.S. Open. The evening featured gastronomic dishes from the New York’s leading chefs and appearances by beloved tennis stars, who took time from their busy pre 50th US Open Championship game schedules to meet, nosh and greet fans.
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
Also making an appearance at the event was Tennis Royalty: Venus and Serena Williams traded in their tennis gear for a chef's apron and kitchen utensils as they showcased a friendly onstage cook-off. After a close contest, the sisters "tied" for best dish. But The biggest surprise of the night was when Former Heavyweight Champ Mike Tyson showed up. Mike was there to promote his most recent venture of a new line of CBD-enhanced beverages under the name DWiiNK.
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
The event was the perfect blend of tasting plates, signature cocktails, and bouncing beats (provided by DJ MadLinx).. But it also had an underlying cause: the smash up of US Open tennis stars and celebrity chefs was a benefit for New York Junior Tennis & Learning. NYJTL is dedicated to developing the character of young people through tennis and education by offering All NYJTL community and after-school programs at no cost to young people in all five NYC Boroughs. .
Atheletes
Venus Williams, Serena Williams, John Isner, Coco Gauff, Andy Roddick, Milan Tyson, Gaël Monfils, Daniil Medvedev, Felix Auger Aliassime, Marc Murphy, Belinda Bencic, Abi Spears, Vania King, Jamie Loeb, Monica Puig, Donna Vekic, Bethanie Mattek Sands, Kristi Ahn, Danielle Collins, Mike Tyson, and Alexander Zverev.
Chefs
Richard Blais (Juniper and Ivy), Masaharu Morimoto (Morimoto), Sujan Sarkar (Baar Baar), Edward Lee (Milkwood), Chef Bao Bao (Boaburg), Lamar Moore (The SwillInn), Rory MacDonald (Chanson Patisserie), Kerry Heffernan (Grand Banks), Michael Han (Ortzi), Julian Medina (Toloache), Mina Newman (Sen Sakana), Cedric Tovar (Lotte NY Palace), John Stage (Dinosaur BBQ), Neil Cline (British Virgin Islands), Sani Hebaj (Dabble @ The Conrad), Mike Viola (Boars Head), Anastacia Song (American Cut)
About AYS
AYS is a woman-owned event management and marketing company founded in 1995. AYS provides customized event solutions and consultation services that help our clients maximize marketing initiatives. AYS also founded and produces the Taste of Tennis, a one-of-a-kind food and tennis experience.
About New York Junior Tennis & Learning
NYJTL is dedicated to developing the character of young people through tennis and education for a lifetime of success on and off the court. All NYJTL community and after-school programs are offered in all five boroughs at no cost. Having served 85,000 youth of NYC in 45 years, today NYJTL is the largest non-profit youth tennis program.
Photos courtesy of Citi Taste of Tennis
BELLA New York Hosts Hamptons White Party
Southampton Social Club hosted the 7th Annual BELLA Hamptons Cover Launch White Party on Saturday, August 3, 2019. This year’s extravaganza was hosted by E!’s Tyler Henry and Sports Illustrated cover model, Camille Kostek.
Bella’s Editor-in-Chief, Courtenay Hall put together another fabulous party this year.
Upon walking into the exciting Southampton Social Club, Hometown Flower Company greeted guests with The Hampton’s first ever flower truck providing floral scenery.
While cover stars Tyler Henry (Hollywood Medium) and Camille Kostek (Sports Illustrated Model) socialized by their cabanas, guests sipped on Prosecco DOC, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and 1907water. Other guests attended the Brussels Airlines photo booth (Seen in the photos below).
Sponsors including Dune Jewelry, High on Love, BTL Aesthetics, Erimish and Dr. Blaine presented their products for guests to enjoy. While Kendra Scott and Dermalogica had merchandise for partygoers to shop. Additional sponsors included Optyx/Nicole Miller, Roric Tobin Design’s, and Kravit Jewelers/Beauty Bar.
Guests included Courtenay Hall (BELLA Editor-in-Chief), Dan Hall (BELLA Chief Brand Strategist), Tyler Henry (Cover Star & Hollywood Medium), Camille Kostek (Cover Star & Sports Illustrated Model), Christy McGinity (Reality TV, Little Women LA), Renee Santos (NBC News Reporter), Alyssa Riley (Sports Illustrated Model), Carrie Berk (Author), Joe Pardavllia (Radio Personality), Haley Carling (Influencer), Logan’s Run (DJ), Dr. Tabasum Mir (Bravo TV Personality), Andy Peeke (Actor), and Ann Ligouri (Sports Radio).
All Photo Credit: Steve White
Savanna Rooftop
Rooftop Bars in Manhattan are all the rage, but there is one noticeable drawback: when you’re in the city, you can’t see the city. There’s nothing like being at the top of a skyscraper in the middle of midtown and not being able to see the actual NYC skyline. However, there’s a simple solution to this perennial problem: Savanna Rooftop in Long Island City.
Just a few stops from midtown on the M train, Savanna Rooftop is a contemporary cocktail bar drawing inspiration from the savannas of Africa, with eucalyptus wood, grassy ground, and colorful murals from Brooklyn artist N. Carlos J. It’s truly a step into paradise -- and that’s even before you get to the view. Completely open-air, Savanna Rooftop boasts 180 degree skyline views of Manhattan from it’s 12th floor perch, as well as stunning views across Long Island.
And while Savanna’s most stand out feature is absolutely it’s view, there’s a lot to be said for both it’s cocktail and small bites menu. The drinks, crafted by mixologist Chad Dutkowski, includes a mezcal based Coco Camino, a frozen Hula Daiquiri and a frozen Gin & Tonic. And as for the menu -- well, you can’t go wrong with bites. There’s carne asada tacos, chicken satay, and my personal favorite: the savanna beef sliders, featuring red onion, gruyere cheese, and sriracha mayo.
So if you’re in Long Island City and looking for a relaxed party vibe, check out Savanna Rooftop. But even if you’re not in LIC, I suggest making the trip out there anyways: the view alone is worth it.
For more pictures and information about Savanna Rooftop, check out: https://savannarooftop.com/, or their instagram, @savannarooftop.
Photos provided by Savanna Rooftop
Escape Virtuality
Anyone who’s ever seen Minority Report knows the coolest part of the entire movie: the VR Room. A futuristic “arcade” where users can experience almost anything they want -- from winning an Oscar to carrying out a murder -- Virtual Reality, or “VR,” is the ultimate form of entertainment...and it’s finally here. Escape Virtuality, an entertainment complex on West 29th Street, is an entire space dedicated exclusively to providing the most incredible interactive experiences in all of New York City.
The first thing you’ll probably notice when entering Escape Virtuality is the giant rock climbing wall. At first glance, it might seem pretty easy -- maybe what, nine feet high? But there’s a catch: the wall is actually a screen, and guests can choose various challenges that will limit where and how they will climb -- meaning at one point, you will be stuck seven feet in the air, listening to people chant your name, and wondering how and earth you are going to squeeze yourself between the virtual barriers without falling on your face. But don’t worry! There’s a mat to catch you if you slip up, and it’s as comfy as can be -- which I can confirm for you myself.
If the rock wall is a little out of your reach, though, there are plenty more activities to choose from. Although I never would have expected it, one of my favorite experiences was a multiplayer shooter game that consisted solely of me running around (virtually) and shooting at another person. It seemed so simple, but something about the 360 view and being locked into a machine made everything seem amazingly real. But if you’re really looking for “realness,” I suggest the XTREMATIC, a “virtual reality simulator extreme machine,” where you can experience “extreme” scenarios such as white water rafting, flying, and my personal favorite -- bungee jumping. You can go in skeptical, but I promise the lurch you feel when the bungee cord springs and you launch into the air is as real as they come.
In addition to augmented reality and virtual reality games, Escape Virtuality has a number of Escape Rooms located on their upper floor. Unfortunately, the rooms were closed on the day I visited, but with puzzles that include a motion stimulated runaway train, a goblin quest, and a mysterious ghost collector… I guess I just have no choice but to go back.
Check out Escape Virtuality on their website: https://escapevirtuality.com/, or their instagram, @escapevirtuality.nyc
Photos from Escape Virtuality
AICNY & Puglia Demo Chef Kitchen
In celebration of Italian cuisine and the Italian chefs of America, noted international and Italian chefs gathered to showcase a repertoire of authentic Apulian, or Puglian, recipes to be paired the most popular wines of the region, such as Primitivo, Nero di Troia and many more. The event, held on the evening of June 25th, was organized by the Associazione Italiana Chef di New York (AICNY) in collaboration with Puglia in Rosé, Cantine Due Palme and the Restaurant Associates (RA) for Scavolini.
Many flocked to the kitchens of the beautiful and distinguished Scavolini SoHo gallery to experience the flavors of Puglia through dishes from featured chefs such as Rocco di Spirito, Davide Oldani, Roberto Caporuscio, Stephen Yen, and Michael Lomonaco. The event also commemorated the great legacy of Anthony Bourdain, whose portrait stood in the corner of the gallery.
American and Italian food and wine bloggers and sommeliers worked their way from one kitchen space to the next, sampling charcuterie in between occasional stops by the bar for a glass of wine to pair with their plate. Every surface in the room was covered in food, spanning from whole wheels of cheese to platters of cured meats to olives, peppers, and fresh herbs. Favorite dishes included pasta served straight from a cheese wheel onto a plate, garnished with freshly grated summer truffles from Italy, and granchio burrata gnocchi. Desserts were also a big hit, including a tiramisu that was light yet rich and indulgent, calling for a sip of rosé to wash it down.
The evening came to a hallmark moment when all the chefs congregated outside in the middle of the street, halting traffic for a photo all together in celebration of food, wine, Puglia, and the art of cooking, with Anthony Bourdain’s picture at the center.
Urbani Truffles Cruise Party
There’s little that can improve a New York City sunset, but the addition of fine Italian food and drinks does just that. On Friday, June 28, Urbani Truffles held their annual cruise party on a Hornblower Hybrid Yacht at Pier 40, the event had spectacular views of the Hudson River. Guests were invited to celebrate the anniversary of the largest Truffle exporter in the world - Urbani Truffle. patrons were wined and dined with delicious truffle delicacies and were taken on a cruise of Manhattan!
One of the most interesting and complex flavors in the culinary world: the truffle, a common name for Hypogeous fungi was the main attraction of the night.. To my surprise, as a vegetarian I had plenty of options to eat from, my personal favorite - the truffle pizza was delectable and savory. Made out of fresh truffle, this delicious soft pizza will leave you wanting more.
The event was chock full of surprises with performers for entertainment, and glamorous cigar girls featuring Switzerland’s Villiger Cigar collection for the guests.
The magnificent evening was wrapped up by cruising around Ellis island with friends and family while sipping on finest champagne and enjoying the tunes and views.
Check out Urbani at - https://www.urbani.com/
Photos courtesy of Urbani
Go Green and Drink at Clinton Hall’s Rooftop Beer Garden
Save the Beer, Save the World … or was that Save the Cheerleader? In any case, drinking at Clinton Hall’s new Rooftop Beer Garden will take you a step in the right eco-friendly direction. The 2,000-square foot rooftop space located at the POD BK Hotel in Williamsburg is the first solar powered rooftop bar in Brooklyn and ready to take on both the environment and thirsty New Yorkers.
Just off the L train on Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn’s newest and greenest beer garden has been added onto the beer hall’s current ground space which serves the always delicious Clinton Hall bar food, beer and cocktails. Games are of course a part of the experience, now they are just being played four flights off the ground. Getting to the top is part of the experience, with intricate murals lining the walls as you wind your way up the spacious outdoor staircase.
When you make it to the top, grab a spot at one of the picnic tables to enjoy a bite and drink from Executive Chef Darryl Harmon’s new culinary offerings. The menu includes Taco & Margarita flights, an Angry Lobster Roll, Guac and Chips, Crab and Cobb Salad and of course a summer must, Cider Frose.
Come for the day day and stay for that Instagramable sunset, either way the Rooftop Beer Garden is a welcome summer oasis.
GLWD 19th Annual Midsummer Night
On Saturday, June 15th, three hundred guests attended 19th Annual Midsummer Night Drinks benefiting God’s Love We Deliver at the historic Samuel Parrish house, est. 1889 in Southampton, NY. This signature event supports God’s Love We Deliver, the only organization of its kind that cooks and home delivers 1.8 million nutritious, individually tailored meals annually to clients living with severe illnesses, their children and senior caregivers.
“We look forward to Midsummer Night Drinks every year,” says David Ludwigson, Vice President & Chief Development Officer of God’s Love We Deliver. “It’s a special way for our guests to support God’s Love and kick off the summer season with a really fun event.”
Guests bid on God’s Love program items such as meals for one year for a person living with HIV/AIDS or the special holiday meals that God’s Love We Deliver sends to their clients.
Guests left the beautiful evening with “Chuck’s Famous Brownies,” baked with love by Chuck the Baker, who has been the baker for God’s Love more than 28 years.
God’s Love is the New York metropolitan area’s leading provider of life-sustaining meals and nutrition counseling for people living with severe illnesses. All of the agency’s services are provided free to clients, and full of love. In its history of more than 34 years, God’s Love We Deliver has never had a waiting list. Because the demand for the services of God’s Love has grown more than 135% in ten years, this year’s Midsummer Night Drinks was more important than ever.
Photos by Patrick McMullan
Wildlife Conservation Society Gala 2019
Photo Credit: Angela Pham/BFA.com
The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) held its annual gala at the spectacular Central Park Zoo where 600 guests celebrated WCS’s impact on protecting the planet’s most ecologically important wild places and the extraordinary species that call them home.
Gala 2019 honored entrepreneur, philanthropist and former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg for his dedication to conservation, protecting the world’s oceans and coral reefs, and combating climate change.
Said WCS Chair Alejandro Santo Domingo: “Mike Bloomberg has demonstrated that a global leader taking local action can change the world. His commitment to protecting the world’s oceans and coral reefs from the effects of climate change and other threats has led to a fruitful partnership with WCS through the Vibrant Oceans initiative. Mike Bloomberg’s strong focus on climate change has been truly inspirational.”
Said Michael R. Bloomberg: “We must do all we can to leave our planet healthier and stronger than we found it. The Wildlife Conservation Society has been committed to that work for over 100 years. Thank you for this honor, and to everyone who has been a part of this mission – because your work is important now more than ever.”
WCS President and CEO Cristian Samper said: “As we work together to tackle the causes and impacts of climate change, we must embrace nature-based solutions like wetlands and forests that help to store carbon and enhance resilience to today’s storms. We must also work together to preserve wild places—nature’s strongholds on land and sea—that provide animals and people with protection, food, and shelter. Here at WCS, that’s exactly what we’re doing. As we approach our 125th anniversary in 2020, we can point to decades of successful, science-driven, field-based conservation impact in 60 countries around the world.”
A lifelong philanthropist, Bloomberg founded Bloomberg Philanthropies, which focuses on five main areas: public health, education, the environment, the arts, and government innovation. He serves as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Climate Action, with the charge to galvanize the efforts of local and regional governments, businesses, and civil society. He is co-author, with Carl Pope, of the New York Times bestseller Climate of Hope: How Cities, Businesses, and Citizens Can Save the Planet. Bloomberg has long supported the Wildlife Conservation Society and its mission to save wildlife and wild places around the world. The Wildlife Conservation Society has also been a strong partner to Bloomberg Philanthropies in the fight to conserve the world’s oceans and protect coral reefs from the worst effects of climate change through the Vibrant Oceans Initiative.
As the world’s premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature. WCS has safeguarded the planet’s important natural strongholds over the past century, helping to create more than 300 protected areas on land and sea. Additionally, WCS’s network of urban wildlife parks is the largest in the world, connecting over 4 million visitors a year to nature and science, creating a powerful force for conservation in New York and beyond.
All proceeds raised through Gala 2019 will help WCS set the standard for conservation science, action, and education, as it has done since its founding more than 120 years ago.
About the Gala
Gala 2019 celebrated Conservation for a Sustainable Future and WCS’s impact on protecting the planet’s most ecologically important wild places and the extraordinary species that call them home. During one of New York City’s premiere social events of the summer, gala guests enjoyed a lively reception around the sea lion pool featuring décor by Lewis Miller Design, followed by a seated dinner prepared by Peter Callahan Catering. Dancing continued under the stars with music by DJ Chris Stiles.
About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
MISSION: WCS saves wildlife and wild places worldwide through science, conservation action, education, and inspiring people to value nature. To achieve our mission, WCS, based at the Bronx Zoo, harnesses the power of its Global Conservation Program in nearly 60 nations and in all the world’s oceans and its five wildlife parks in New York City, visited by 4 million people annually. WCS combines its expertise in the field, zoos, and aquarium to achieve its conservation mission. For more information, visit: wcs.org, newsroom.wcs.org.
Photo Credit: Angela Pham/BFA.com
The Gordon Parks Foundation Annual Awards Dinner and Auction
On June 4th, Cipriani's cavernous hall was graced with joyous conversation, stunning guest regalia, and incredible artists across the creative spectrum. This event commemorated the 20th anniversary of Gordon Park’s historical photograph A Great Day in Hip Hop with guests like QuestLove, Fab 5 Freddy, Fat Joe and Slick Rick in attendance to re-stage the scene. The Gordon Parks Foundation is a group dedicated to preserving the works of the late artist, Gordon Parks, along with furthering his vision for the empowerment of growing artists.
Widely considered the most influential African-American photographer of the last hundred years, Gordon Parks work documented American poverty through the unique lens of elevated humanity and dignity. From his early work with the Farm Security Administration (FSA) to his photo essays on Harlem Gang Leader Red Jackson, Park’s ability to humanize what popular media had demonized set him far above his contemporaries at the time.
The Gala kicked off with a showcase of Park’s work followed by a dinner and awards ceremony. Guests were able to chat and sip cocktails while gradually progressing around the gallery space. Each work amalgamated small groups of attendees who spoke of the history and composition admiringly. The gelatin based photo prints, some presenting Park’s most notable work, could be bid on and bought to support the foundations ongoing initiatives.
With guests of honor like Raf Simons, Kehinde Wiley and Chelsea Clinton mingling amongst many other honorable attendees, one would be pressed to have missed this incredible turn-out.
Bluemercury Turns 20!
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Barry and Marla Beck, the founders of makeup retailer Bluemercury, have a lot to celebrate this month, as their company celebrates its 20th anniversary. On June 11th, Bluemercury hosted a celebratory cocktail party at their New York Hilton Flagship location. Notable guests included several big names in the beauty industry, such as Simon Huck, Public Relations and Marketing Executive, Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent, interior designers, and Holly Thaggard, Founder of Supergoop! DJ Marjorie Gubelmann, known as MadMarj, provided the music for the evening, as guests enjoyed refreshments and learned about the history of Bluemercury since it opened its first store in Georgetown in 1999. With almost 200 locations, the company has had tremendous success, carrying leading brands in the beauty industry such as La Mer, RéVive, Hourglass, Kiehl’s, NARS, and M-61 Skincare. The luxury beauty brand and spa retail chain joined Macy’s, Inc. in 2015, and its stores are embedded within local communities.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Photo Credit: Getty Images
During the celebration, guests listened to Marla and Barry’s remarks on their Bluemercury journey. The couple reflected on their company’s humble beginnings and marveled at the success the company has found. When the couple first started the company in 1999, they were in trouble, and they bought a local boutique in Washington, D.C., and reopened it as Bluemercury. They never imagined that their local beauty boutique would become a key player in the beauty retail scene. The Becks accurately predicted that opening stores in convenient locations would lead to Bluemercury’s success. The Becks are not afraid to mix business and personal life and have stayed true to their vision of having a familial feeling to each store by remaining completely involved in all parts of their company, even with three kids and 184 locations.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Attendees were each gifted a LAFCO X Bluemercury Spa Candle, which was created by Marla Beck and LAFCO to replicate the Bluemercury spa experience. Guests also left with a perhaps newfound understanding of what it takes to run a beauty empire and the power couple behind all of the incredible stores.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
La Nuit en Rosé: Skyline, Yacht, and Lots of Wine
Cherry blossoms are not the only thing color-splashing New York with a little bit of pink during Spring. For several years, La Nuit en Rosé’s cruises have been gathering the city’s wine enthusiasts for a pink-themed party over the Hudson River: And the 2019 Cruise definitely turned NYC into a tipsy, Barbie world.
Guests, welcomed on a pink carpet to the yacht, respected the cruise’s pink-and-white dress code. They spent their time sipping wine over a selection of New York’s best Rosés. Taking pictures in front of the city’s breathtaking skyline. Enjoying the breeze of air on the boat’s deck. Dancing to the DJs’ INSANE music (and there is a DJ on every floor of the yacht!) Tasting French cheese, bite-sized pizzas, ice cream-and even Rosé Risotto…
La Nuit en Rosé 2019 turned New York, and la vie, en rose. And luckily, this yearly event will be back in 2020, for another chance to drink, eat, and breath pink.
The Sentry Members-Only Pool
There's a new members-only pool that's about to make a splash in NYC. The Sentry will open atop the iconic American Copper Building from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. This amenity driven social club was made for people who move things, make things, create things and shake things up. The private rooftop will have a capacity for over 200 guests and the pool itself will have the ability to convert into a giant Jacuzzi for private events. This membership club is experience driven and will offer morning yoga classes, pool meditations and guided astronomy sessions, making it a breath of fresh air from what the other New York membership clubs have become.
The Sentry at The American Copper Buildings offers a Day Menu and a Night Menu brought to you by Hole in the Wall’s Executive Chef Brent Hudson, incorporating a kaleidoscope of Aussie and Asian influences to create innovative pairings and signature dishes that burst with color and flavor.
On Thursday, May 23rd, The Sentry had a launch party, hosted by Fat Joe. The intimate and chic crowd had the best time dancing and to Fat Joe’s many hits. Guests sipped on signature cocktails and enjoyed a selection of the finest fares the new club will offer.
Photos by Sentry
Membership Information: https://www.thesentrynyc.com/membership
TOP MAY EVENTS
PARKINSON’S FOUNDATION TO HOST 2019 NEW YORK ANNUAL GALA
WHAT: The Parkinson’s Foundation will host its annual New York Gala, bringing together more than 300 national leaders in Parkinson’s care and research, business, and the media. The celebratory event features entertainment, dancing, signature cocktails, dinner and auction items, all in support of the organization’s mission to improve the lives of people living with Parkinson’s disease.
Master of Ceremonies, Willie Geist of NBC, will act as host of the evening’s events, which will honor Johnson & Johnson and Governor Edward G. Rendell, 45th Governor of Pennsylvania and former Mayor of the City of Philadelphia.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 7, 2019
6:30 p.m. Cocktails
7:30 p.m. Dinner
WHERE: Cipriani 25 Broadway
New York, NY 10004
RSVP: To purchase tickets for$1,250, the public may visit www.parkinson.org/gala
2. Taste of Upper West Side 2019
FRIDAY, MAY 17
7 PM TO 10 PM
Summer in the City kicks off our annual fundraising food event with the exciting debuts of several restaurants and bars, along with longtime local favorites. Come join us for unlimited wine, spirits and great music centered around innovative seasonal food from approximately 40 of the Upper West Side’s most sought-after restaurants. READ MORE
LIMITED QUANTITY TICKETS AVAILABLE WHILE THEY LAST!
Join us at the 3rd Annual WhiskyX event in Brooklyn, New York on May 17th at Duggal Greenhouse.
Come taste 60+ whiskies led by expert brand ambassadors, distillery reps & some of NYC’s well-known bartenders
Be entertained with a LIVE CONCERT from St. Paul & The Broken Bones
Enjoy NYC’s best food trucks & featured chef to be announced serving up delicious samplings
For more info, visit our website: http://www.TheWhiskyX.com
WHISKEY TASTING BRANDS
Some of our participating whiskies across Bourbon, Scotch, American Whiskey, Single Malts and Rye Whiskey.
Previous participants have included: Aberlour • Ardbeg • Balcones •Bruichladdich • Bulleit Bourbon • Cooper & Thief • Clyde May’s • Crown Royal • Dewar’s • Glen Moray • Glenmorangie • George Dickel • Guinness • Highland Park • High West • Johnnie Walker • Limousin Rye • Powers Irish Whiskey • Q Drinks • Russel's Reserve • Scotch Malt Whisky Society • Westland • WhistlePig • Wild Turkey • And More…
~55 Local and Out of State Brewers serving over 100+ Craft Beers ~ Never Before Tasted Beer and some of your favorites, 2 Live Jam Bands and catered by local restaurants ~
~Come Join us on Saturday, May 18, 2019 4pm - 9pm, at The Well, 272 Meserole St. Brookyn~
One Price for entry includes everything. $75.00
Website: http://www.fiveborocraftbeerfest.com/
5. Billion Oyster Party
Billion Oyster Party
Get treated to the ultimate oyster experience as we celebrate the movement to restore NY Harbor and our local marine environment. Mingle with 50 oyster farmers who will be shucking and serving their delicacies and enjoy bites from 25 of NYC’s top restaurants while learning about oyster culture and restoration. Speak to NY Harbor School students about their work on the Billion Oyster Project. Finally, wash it all down with brews, sodas, spirits and wines from local partners while watching the BOP All-Star Shucking Championship!
Proceeds from the event directly support Billion Oyster Projects restoration and education work. The hands-on science of reef construction and monitoring is executed through community oysters reefs, in-school restoration-based STEM learning opportunities, volunteer programs, community science and research, and restaurant shell collection. Together, we can revive our shared blue space, creating a healthier, happier, and more resilient city—one oyster reef at a time.
On Monday May 20, 2019 at 6:00pm, Harlem Stage, the legendary uptown performing arts venue celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the Harlem Renaissance, a period known for a flourishing of art and culture led by Black artists. Guests will be dressed in attire inspired by the roaring ‘20s, to mark the era.
This year in commemoration of the Harlem Renaissance, Harlem Stage’s annual gala celebrates Disrupters: Then, Now, and in the Future; those who shake up the status quo in every field by pushing the boundaries of innovation. The gala is a tribute to artists, activists, and creators, and celebrates Harlem Stage’s more than 35 years as an institution known for commissioning and presenting new, innovative work that reflects and responds to the complex conditions that shape the lives of our audiences, artists, and communities of color.
Zero Food Waste Challenge
** This event is part of the Food Waste Fair, an interactive event connecting the NYC hospitality industry with the resources and knowledge they need to get to #zerofoodwaste. Get your companion ticket here. **
From soup kitchen cooks to Michelin star chefs, New York’s most creative culinary leaders compete at the Zero Food Waste Challenge to fight food waste!
NYC businesses throw away more than 650,000 tons of food annually—but the chefs participating in the Zero Food Waste Challenge know better. Come out to sample dishes from the City’s most creative culinary leaders on May 23rd at the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Chefs will make dishes featuring “upcycled” ingredients, ranging from gochujang veggie stem tacos, to cashew & almond milk panna cotta, to cippolini onion dip & chips.
The Annual NYC Hospitality Alliance Awards
New York City has long been recognized as one of the most remarkable cities in the world. The source of New York’s greatness stems from the myriad of quality restaurants, bars, lounges, and destination hotels that span the five boroughs. The NYC Hospitality Alliance, founded in 2012, is a nonprofit association made up of thousands of businesses. The alliance is dedicated to ensuring the continued prosperity of New York through advocating for its members in government and encouraging investment in the hospitality industry.
On Monday, April 8th, over eight-hundred industry leaders attended the NYC Hospitality Awards to honor the people responsible for operating the businesses that make New York a truly extraordinary city. Guests included the New York Nightlife Mayor, Ariel Palitz, the man behind NYC Restaurant Week, Tracy Nieporent, and Celebrity Chef, Marcus Samuelsson.
Hospitality extends far beyond receiving a simple “please” and “thank you” from your waitress; a multitude of factors must be taken into consideration when determining what merits exceptional service. To encompass the various aspects of hospitality, more than two dozen distinctions were awarded; from The City That Never Sleeps Award to the Philanthropy Served Here Award. I was very excited to see that one of my favorite restaurants, Veselka, was given The True Taste of NYC Award. I was equally enthused to learn about numerous eateries that I was previously unaware of. Even in a metropolis, such as New York, which is sprawling with tens of thousands of dining and drinking establishments, it is surprisingly easy become overwhelmed by choice, and consequently circulate through the same five restaurants every week. The hospitality industry is vital to the success of New York City. It was wonderful to celebrate the many business that are committed to quality service.
I greatly appreciate NYC’s Hospitality Alliance acknowledgement of restaurants and nightlife establishments from all five boroughs. This rare recognition has encouraged me to explore beyond the limits of Manhattan. Additionally, it further illustrates that the Hospitality Alliance is not only dedicated to maintaining already thriving establishments but seeks to support up and coming, lesser known businesses.
The awards were held at TAO, a subterranean restaurant and nightclub located in the heart of Chelsea. Guest entered through a long, dimly lit, brick corridor decorated with murals of Chinese calligraphy. The corridor opened to a large multi-level space, curated with detailed artwork reminiscent of ancient Chinese artifacts. Guest engaged in cheerful dialogue over dinner catered by TAO while sipping on Asahi Beer, Tito's cocktails, or wine from Rodney Strong Vineyards. Every facet of the event was an embodiment of incredible hospitality, ultimately creating a memorable and dynamic night.
The highlight of my night was when Melba Wilson, President of the NYC Hospitality Alliance and owner of Melba’s restaurant, took my hand and led me to the dance floor. I let loose to the Café Wha? Band, who played a series of classics as well as some of today's hits. Overlooking the dance floor was a larger than life statue of The Quan Yin; her twenty-four hands lend her the ability to aid those in need, a very fitting symbol for an event commemorating hospitality.