DREAMS in the City 2017
Group holding up blue bracelets that lit up when money was donated
On Thursday, May 5th, the Diabetes Research Institute held the DREAMS in the City gala at the astounding Cipriani 25 Broadway. The goal of the DREAMS in the City gala is to bring people together to raise funds for research to help find a biological cure for diabetes. Guests were able to place bids on items, or simply make donations of however much they pleased. After tasty appetizers and a few rounds of drinks, attendees were welcomed to their tables by the Master of Ceremonies, Chris Wragge, Co-Anchor of CBS 2 News This Morning and CBS 2 News at Noon. Chris introduced the event co-chair Samantha Shanken Baker, who recognized the significance of the event, which had raised millions dollars in the search for a diabetes cure. She fondly acknowledged the work and dedication of her co-chair colleagues Bonnie Inserra, Meryl Lieberman, Susan Weiner and Young Professionals’ Chair Lindsey-Inserra Hughes.
DREAMS in the City Co-Chairs (from left) Susan Weiner, Samantha Shanken Baker, Bonnie Inserra, Young Professionals’ Chair Lindsey-Inserra Hughes and Meryl Lieberman
Tariq Trotter and Chris Wragge at DREAMS in the City 2017
DRI immunologist Dr. Allison Bayer, this year's proud recipient of the Marc. S. Goodman Prize for Outstanding Young Scientists, spoke about her work. The DRI has pioneered a technology known as islet transplantation, a procedure that replaces insulin–producing cells to normalize blood sugars. The DRI has had great success in getting people off daily insulin injections; some for more than 10 years. The need for life-long use of powerful anti-rejection drugs has limited those who can participate to the most severe cases. Now, the DRI is doing everything possible to eliminate these drugs, re-educate the immune system and offer cell replacement to all who can benefit.
Next to the stage was DRI Foundation President and CEO Joshua Rednik to introduce this year’s Dare to Dream Award recipients, The Besner Family, Greg, Leslie, Willa and Lana Besner from the Willa’s Wish Foundation. Willa Besner, now 15 years old, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age four.
Ever since, she and her family have been committed to finding a cure. They put together a heart-warming movie that brought attention to the struggles a person with type 1 diabetes deals with on a daily basis and inspired hope for a cure. The audience had tears in their eyes by the end, when Willa told the audience she had hope that one day she would be able to identify “no longer as type 1, but type none”.
Joshua Rednik and Dare to Dream Award recipients (from left) Greg, Leslie, Willa and Lana Besner
Chris Wragge began the first donation period of the night, giving seven minutes for everyone to use the devices on their tables to donate a dollar amount of their choice. Each guest was given a bracelet, and when donations were made, they would put the glowing bracelets on. In just seven minutes, the room was filled with glowing wrists and the screen displayed over one hundred thousand dollars’ worth of donations. The energy was incredible.
Kids with type 1 diabetes surprise the crowd and inspirational sing to hundreds during DREAMS in the City
After the program, guests enjoyed a delicious dinner followed by dancing to a fantastic live performance by The Jay Prince Band. Guests were also welcomed to a dessert bar. It was a beautiful night filled with inspired people and hopeful vibes.
Billy Blanks Jr. takes the stage for an impromptu performance with the Jay Prince Band at DREAMS in the City
Although DREAMS in the City is a lovely event, hopefully one day it will not be necessary to raise money for a cure, because the cure will have been found.
For more information on the Diabetes Research Institute Foundation please visit www.DiabetesResearch.org or call 1-800-321-3437.
Photos courtesy of Diabetes Research Institute Foundation.
TriBeCa Games Festival 2017
Tribeca Film Festival co-founder Jane Rosenthal delivers opening remarks introducing the keynote speakers at the inaugural Tribeca Games Festival. Photo credit: @jive for @streetdreamsmag
Tribeca Games and Kill Screen partnered this weekend to launch the very first Tribeca Games Festival. The festival brought together the gaming community to examine the past and future of gaming and storytelling. Gamers were given a chance to get behind-the-scenes looks into some of the most popular games of the year and view panels with speakers who are cultural leaders and industry insiders.
Attendees at the inaugural Tribeca Games Festival get hands-on play with unreleased and newly-released videogame titles at the festival’s Arcade. Photo credit: @georgemckenziejr for @streetdreamsmag
On the opening night of the festival, attendees got the opportunity to be a part of the New York City Crowd Play premiere of Guardians of the Galaxy: The Telltale Series Episode 1. By just entering a code on a website from their phones, the entire crowd could play the same game together along with Job J Stauffer, Head of Creative Communications at Telltale Games, and Ryan Penagos, Vice President & Executive Editor at Marvel Digital Media. The game was the perfect example of the future for storytelling within video games, and every person at the festival was offered a free copy before they left. The night concluded with a concert by British electronic producer and multi-instrumentalist Mura Masa. Fresh off a Coachella performance, Mura Masa gave an incredible show to the packed audience and lit up the Tribeca Festival Hub at Spring Studios with the sounds of the future.
British multi-instrumentalist Mura Masa performs at Tribeca Games Festival’s Opening Night. Photo credit: @black_soap for @streetdreamsmag
On the second and last day of the festival, there were three keynote conversations. Sam Lake, who worked on Max Payne and Alan Wake, was joined for a panel by film director Neil Burger and and journalist Chris Suellentrop. Hideo Kojima, creator of the iconic Metal Gear franchise, discussed his game design philosophy with industry insider Goeff Keighley. Ken Levine, creator of the Bioshock franchise, spoke with Doug Liman, director of Edge of Tomorrow, and journalist Clive Thompson.
L-R: Film director Neil Burger (Limitless), game developer Sam Lake (Max Payne, Alan Wake and Quantum Break) and journalist Chris Suellentrop (Glixel) discuss approaches to storytelling in videogames during their keynote conversation at the inaugural Tribeca Games Festival. Photo credit: @jive for @streetdreamsmag
L-R: Legendary videogame developer Hideo Kojima (Metal Gear) and games industry mainstay Geoff Keighley discuss Kojima’s influences of cinema on his work and what’s next for him during their keynote conversation at the inaugural Tribeca Games Festival. Photo credit: @jive for @streetdreamsmag
L-R: Film director Doug Liman (Edge of Tomorrow) and videogame designer Ken Levine (BioShock), reflect on Levine’s legacy for interactive storytelling during their keynote conversation at the inaugural Tribeca Games Festival. Photo credit: @jive for @streetdreamsmag
The final day of the festival also included "X Post Conversations," a series of cross-cultural conversations that paired a creator from the gaming community with someone of equal stature from an outside field; "Retro Active," a series of conversations that look back on some of the greatest titles from 2016, exploring every element from art, design, and sound to storytelling. There was also an interactive arcade allowing attendees to be the first to get hands-on with new, unreleased games such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Nier Automata.
L-R: Game developer Michael Chu (Overwatch), Ben Lindbergh and Jason Concepcion (The Ringer/Achievement Oriented) discuss Overwatch’s lore and universe at the inaugural Tribeca Games Festival. Photo credit: @jive for @streetdreamsmag
L-R: Film director Brett Leonard (The Lawnmower Man) and journalist Alex Goldman (Gimlet Media) discuss how The Lawnmower Man influenced a generation of digital creators on the film’s 25th anniversary at the inaugural Tribeca Games Festival. Photo credit: @georgemckenziejr for @streetdreamsmag
The inaugural Tribeca Games Festival was a huge success, truly a dream for any fans of gaming and an enjoyable experience for anyone at all.
Photos courtesy of fortyseven
Animal Ashram's Art, Artists, and Cocktails Event
Animal Ashram’s Leesa Rowland, and Last Chance for Animals’ Chris DeRose, welcomed roughly one hundred guests on April 25th to The Gallery on West 26th Street in support of the fight against animal cruelty. Chris DeRose spoke extensively on the organization, describing the non-profit as “The FBI for animal rights.” The mission statement of Last Chance for Animals is “to eliminate animal exploitation through education, investigations, legislation, and media attention.” He also discussed the fact that everyone can be an activist, simply by not eating or wearing animal byproducts. Animal Ashram, similarly, focuses on the prevention of animal experimentation, entertainment, or exploitation. This organization’s motto is that “There is a oneness of all life.”
The event took place in an intimate and scenic venue overlooking the city skyline. Around twenty art pieces were showcased for the silent auction portion of the evening, many of which displayed themes relating to animals. The artwork included paintings, photography, sculpture, and sketches. A diverse variety of artists were featured in the collection, including Marianna Fox, Burton Morris, Jeff Rodgers, Annie Watt, Romero Britto, Carolyn Davis, and others.
Throughout the event, servers and bartenders covered in animal-inspired makeup migrated through the room, offering an array of vegan hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and desserts. Culinary partners of the event were By Chloe, RevelRouge, and Wild Restaurant. In addition to the silent auction, guests participated in a raffle, and at the end of the night, a few lucky winners received various prizes relating to Animal Ashram, including gift certificates and gift baskets. After the hosts spoke on behalf of their respective organizations and missions, guests experienced a lovely live musical performance.
Overall, this event in support of animal activism and protection was informative and multidimensional. The collection of philanthropy, art, live music, and refreshments made for an unforgettable night. Most importantly, the hosts asserted the necessity for action regarding animal abuse and cruelty.
Photos courtesy of Natalie Bero
Tribeca Film Festival 2017 After Parties
What is more exciting than attending the Hollywood mega stars filled Tribeca Film Festival? Well, grabbing drinks with the stars at the after parties of course. For every film that premieres at the Tribeca Film Festival, there comes a after party celebration. In most cases, these celebratory activities take place at the hottest spots in New York night life. Fans of movie stars would give their limbs to be at these unforgettable parties.
Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick, Miles J. Harvey, Ben Stiller and Oren Moverman
2017 Tribeca Film Festival After Party For The Dinner Sponsored By Nespresso At White Street (Theo Wargo, Getty Images)
From bumping shoulders with A-list actors, to nibbling on appetizers alongside some of Hollywood's biggest directors. The Tribeca after party experience is a truly marvelous opportunity to feel Hollywood. The parties also provides a chance for other up-and-coming directors, actors, and screenwriters to meet and discuss future plans to work together. It really is a unique experience to see movie screen royalties interacting along their family and supporters.
Gina Gershon and Alessandro Nivola
2017 Tribeca Film Festival After-Party for One Percent More Humid, sponsored by Bulleit Bourbon at The Chester – 4/21/17 (Ilya Savenok, Getty Images
David Joseph Craig, Dan Stevens, Rebecca Hall, Morgan Spector and Jason Sudeikis
2017 Tribeca Film Festival After Party for Permission, sponsored by Heineken at Up and Down – 4/22/17 (Ilya Savenok, Getty Images)
Delicious fare from the hottest restaurants in New York, exquisite cocktails from top liquor brands, trendy spots, beautiful crowd, and hottest records being spun by DJs, there is really nothing else to make a party more grand.
Mark Cuban and Ed Helms
2017 Tribeca Film Festival After-Party for The Clapper, sponsored by EFFEN® Vodka at Avenue - 4/23/17 (Jamie McCarthy, Getty Images)
Dree Hemingway and Andie MacDowell
2017 Tribeca Film Festival After Party for Love After Love at Up and Down – 4/22/17 (Nick Hunt, Getty Images)
Attending a Tribeca Film Festival after party, whether it's inside the Hub or elsewhere, is your chance to talk cinema, casually imbibe, and joyously celebrate with the Fest's coolest talent, biggest names, and breakout talent. Its a chance to feel Hollywood in the big apple.
Emma Watson and Tom Hanks
2017 Tribeca Film Festival After Party for The Circle at American Cut Tribeca sponsored by Chloe Wine Collection, EFFEN Vodka and Heineken April 26, 2017 (Rob Kim, Getty Images)
Venues: La Sirena, The Chester, White Street, Up and Down, Fine & Rare, Avenue, American Cut Tribeca
Spirits: Bulleit Bourbon, EFFEN Vodka, Heineken, Chloe Wine Collection
Photos courtesy of ShadowPR
We Are Family Foundation Gala 2017
New York City, April 28 2017 - We Are Family Foundation® (WAFF) held its 2017 gala celebration which recognized honorees Nelson Mandela (posthumously accepted by his family), A Tribe Called Quest and Dikembe Mutombo.
ABOUT WE ARE FAMILY FOUNDATION®
We Are Family Foundation (WAFF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the vision of a global family by creating and supporting programs that promote cultural diversity while nurturing the vision, talents, and ideas of young people who are positively changing the world. Through global initiatives like Three Dot Dash and TEDxTeen, WAFF has mentored and empowered extraordinary youth from more than 64 countries on six continents by giving them platforms to share their messages, tell their stories, inspire others, amplify their work and foster respect and understanding across cultures.
East Side House Settlement 18th Annual Gala
On April 13, 2017, East Side House Settlement hosted the 18th Annual Gala Preview of the 2017 New York International Auto Show at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. The Gala was attended by over 1,200 people from a variety of industries across fashion, finance and philanthropy, all with the common interest of getting a sneak peek of the auto show before it opened to the public. The Gala Preview included a cocktail party, a dinner for benefactors, a silent auction and a live auction of the first 2018 Range Rover Velar; a mid-size SUV that combines elegance, luxury, and all-terrain capability.
Upon entering the Gala, guests were greeted by servers holding an array of delicious hors d'oeuvres and sparkling champagne. A cocktail party wouldn’t be complete without a premium open bar, and there were multiple fully-serviced bars spread across the floor for guests’ convenience. A photo booth was provided for attendees to take pictures to remember the event-filled night. New models of cars coupled with curators were on display with guests welcome to step into the car for the full experience. In keeping up with today’s current trends, guests were able to partake in Virtual Reality experiences made to replicate the experiences of being in the Range Rover Velar and Ben Ainslie Racing. The silent auction contained fabulous prizes that include art pieces, tickets to the 2017 American Music Awards, tickets to a Lady Gaga Concert, vacation getaways, and expensive wines.
In an overwhelming success, the event raised more than $500,000. All the proceeds will directly benefit East Side House Settlement, a non-profit organization providing education and social services throughout the Bronx and northern Manhattan.
The donations will help people in pivotal moments of their lives such as funding for college. Thanks to East Side House Settlement’s programs, 97% of Pre-K students graduate school-ready and 6,000 children and young adults are reached everyday through the program.
East Side House Settlement strives to give people the opportunity to better their lives through education and post-education services. It is one of the oldest social service organizations in New York City, helping nearly 10,000 people every year. Programs include early childhood programs, after-school programs, college and career readiness programs, and workforce development. In 2016, nearly 1000 at-risk students would not have graduated without East Side House Settlement, 70% of these students went on to gain college acceptance.
Support of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association and the New York International Auto Show makes it possible for East Side House Settlement to continue helping people through their programs every year. The Gala would not have been possible if it weren’t for the Gala co-chairs Philip L. Yang and Christopher LaSusa, along with the Benefit Committee chairs Samuel P.C. Dangremond, Stuart Orenstein, and Eric Wittenberg.
For more information and how to donate to East Side House Settlement, click here.
Photos Courtesy of BFA/ Angela Pham and Rommel Demano
BARD 6th Annual Gala
In the 1950s, Detroit was America’s fourth most populous city, with 1.85 million people living there during the peak of the U.S. auto business boom. Now, In 2017, the population of Detroit has dropped to an estimated 720,000. Once the quintessence of well-paying blue collar jobs, the city declared bankruptcy in 2013, after the auto manufacturing jobs that were the lifeblood of the city’s economy had dried up. While the city successfully exited the bankruptcy, crime, poverty, and urban blight continues to be on going problems. In a city ridden off by far too many, there are pockets of people that are offering hope.
Born and Raised Detroit Foundation (BARD) is a nonprofit organization that supports education-based initiatives that contribute to building a stronger community and positive way of life. Since 2011, BARD has been dedicated to keeping Detroiters connected across the United States in efforts to support and contribute to the city of Detroit, making it a hopeful place for future generations. BARD is made up of innovative individuals who were born and raised in the Detroit area that are involved in promoting charitable and financial goals that support programs taking place on the ground in Detroit. In a simpler sense, they host fundraisers all over the country and donate the proceeds to some deserving causes.
On April 7th, BARD hosted the 6th Annual Show Your Love for Detroit event at The Bowery Hotel in NYC. Over 425 young professionals attended the amazing event, raising more than $40,000 for youth-based charities taking place in the Metro-Detroit area. In total, over the past six years, BARD has raised more than $400,000, donating significant amounts to non-profits, such as Detroit Youth Boxing Gym, Detroit Achievement Academy and Detroit Swims. The night was filled with live music, an open bar and a remarkable silent auction. The guests were proudly supporting a cause that went back to their roots.
Detroit needs help. We can’t leave the next generation of kids filled with talent and promise to fend for themselves. Like the founder of Parker Lynch said, “Experiences that positively contribute to the upbringing of Detroit’s youth lie at the core of Born & Raised Detroit.” To help make a difference, join Born & Raised Detroit in its efforts to strengthen by raising awareness of the need for community support.
For more information and how to donate to BARD, click here.
Photos courtesy of BARD
Youth America Grand Prix 2017
Lincoln Center, New York’s harmonious epicenter, and stage to some of the most acclaimed performances in the world, was the place to be yesterday. Last night, the beautiful New York crowd trekked to the Upper West Side to appreciate some of world’s most renowned ballet dancers. Ballet aficionados, parents, and celebrities alike all assembled at The Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater for the annual Youth America Grand Prix’s (YAGP) Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Gala. This yearly event has become synonymous with the discovery of new dancers, and choreographers, featuring the performances of international ballet stars, while presenting the world’s brightest young dance talent
CBS’s Keltie Knight was the emcee for the evening, and she did an incredible job of pumping up the crowd before the showcase. The initial performances were a display of great potential by the stars of tomorrow, the young YAGP finalists, who put on a spectacle for their families and friends. The audience saved its greatest applause for the conclusion of the first act, where an assemblage of more than 200 plus YAGP dancers took the stage for a grand dance party.
Before the second act, the presentation of YAGP’s inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Bruce Marks, whose accomplishments as a dancer and artistic director could fill this article. Bruce was gracious in his acceptance speech and echoed a very important political message: “Stand up and fight for Art.” The second act began as the more established and world-renowned dancers took the stage and exhibited their world-class moves. Major ballet stars of today such as Svetlana Lunkina and Evan Mckie (National Ballet of Canada), Tamara Rojo and Cesar Corrales (English National Ballet), Skylar Brandt and Gabe Stone Shayer (American Ballet Theatre), and Tiler Peck and Zachary Catazaro ( New York City Ballet) all came to prance their pointe.
Following the splendid show, guests made their way to the promenade for dinner and socializing. Celebrities quickly filled the room as visitors scrambled to get a word in with their idols. A group of gorgeous women particularly caught the attention of everyone, especially the photographers, as camera flashes lit up their beautiful dresses. The amazing group of women were none other than Amy Astley, the honorary chairman, Marcella Guarino Hymowitz, the chairman, Samantha Boardman-Rosen, Colby Mugrabi, Candice Jordan Miller, Ashley Olsen, Mary Kate Olsen, and Lesley Thompson Vecsler who all served as co-chairs. Strolling around the room, there were many other major names such as Chelsea Clinton, Woody Allen, Nicky Hilton, and Tony Gonzalez.
From the amazing performances, to the sit-down dinner and dancing, Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Gala was a truly successful night. However, many young dancers are still in need of scholarships, and we cannot let the next generation of kids filled with talent and promise to miss out on this opportunity.
YAGP is the world’s largest and one of the most prestigious international ballet competitions, as well as a New York-based 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization. The mission of YAGP is to provide a global network of dance organization that provides scholarship opportunities and master classes for young dancers’ ages 9 to 19 around the world. The YAGP also holds annual competitions in multiple international and national venues that continues for nearly a full year. Each season, selected students from these competitions are invited to New York City to participate in the week-long finals. These promising dancers will receive in-depth mentoring and greater scholarship, professional, and performance opportunities. In less than twenty years YAGP has become an institution – not only for the esteem of its awards, but for the exposure it provides to young dancers to be seen by, and to make an impression on, representatives of ballet schools and companies from across the globe. For more information and how to donate to YAGP, click here.
Photos courtesy of Annie Watt Agency and Presley Ann/ Patrick McMullan
Tusk Wildlife Gala 2017
Last night, the historic, New York City landmark Guastavino’s was transformed into a momentary mysterious jungle to host the 27th anniversary gala. The Tusk Gala is a fundraiser to support Tusk’s mission to conserve African wildlife, while at the same time empowering local communities by alleviating poverty via sustainable development and education. Tusk provides promising solutions to the crisis facing Africa’s wildlife.
For over 25 years, Tusk has been funding Africa’s most effective and successful conservation initiatives. HRH Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, has been the Royal Patron of Tusk since 2005 and has been a powerful advocate for Tusk’s work ever since. This year’s Tusk Wildlife Gala featured best-selling wildlife photographer, David Yarrow, honored renowned conservationist and Kenyan politician, Richard Leakey, award-winning Director Richard Ladkani, and Academy Award-nominated Director, Kief Davidson, for their production of the Netflix documentary, The Ivory Game.
Elephants are known to have tusks grow so large they almost touch the ground, yet, those beautiful tusks that makes them unique have also put them at serious risk. 100 elephants are slaughtered every day for their ivory. In fact, over the last 40 years, the world’s wildlife population has dwindled by more than half, and at the current poaching rates, elephants, rhinos, and other iconic African wildlife may be gone within our lifetime. The destruction of Africa’s natural resources have reached an unparalleled level due to the increase in illegal trades, rapid population growth. If this continues, the African wildlife will be in serious woe.
Tusk devotes resources in three areas to protect Africa’s wildlife. The first element provides the first line of defense by providing rangers on the ground to fight against poachers. The second element is an education program which have already reached over 350,000 children. By offering knowledge and new career paths, the next generation of kids will come to cherish the wildlife and become part of the solution. The third element is community development and income generating programs. Tusk’s programs provides employment to many people convincing local communities to realize the value of their natural resources.
The evening started off with a cocktail hour, and guests mingled while the silent auction offered up some great items to practice bidding before the live auction during dinner. After admiring some beautiful people arriving on the red carpet, we were ushered to take our seats for dinner. I was lucky enough to be placed at a wonderful table with the loveliest women. They shared with me so many wonderful stories and had me at all smiles the whole night. The ladies were even generous enough to donate a few of their jewelry pieces from their company, Gustav Manz, for the silent auction. I am so glad and honored to have been at the table with such extraordinary people.
The Legacy Award recipient and honoree of the night was Richard Leakey, who was recognized for his tireless conservation efforts that reduced poaching in Kenya. Leakey first gained worldwide fame for discovery of a nearly complete 1.6-million-year-old skeleton of a homo erectus youth, a pioneering contribution to the study of the evolutionary biology. In addition, this year’s Game Changer Award was also given to Richard Ladkani and Kief Davidson in acknowledgment of their Oscar shortlisted Netflix film The Ivory Game. Leakey and Jane Goodall could not be there, but delivered their message by video, both offered their voices to better the world. Every speaker’s speech resonated with impact, but when Tusk founder and President Charlie Mayhew said “It’s now or never,” it really summed up the urgency of the issue.
From major pieces of art by David Yarrow to incredible Safari trips, the amazing auctioneer from Sotheby’s had the crowd raising their bids from table to table during the live auction. The dinner smoothly transitioned into a celebratory party, featuring a safari photo booth complete with binoculars and safari hats. The guests got on the dance floor and swayed the night away to the feel-good music courtesy of DJ Flo.
An evening of altruism and awareness, the night at the gala proved to be an eye-opening occasion of conversations about conservation and what we can do to change the lives of the people and endangered animals that call Africa home.
From the cocktail hour to the sit-down dinner to after party, Tusk's wildlife gala was packed with moments to reminisce and thought-provoking wisdom we'll never forget. African wildlife are a symbol of the natural world, yet only a fragment of that remains, and it is crucial that we all do our part to help. Congratulations to Tusk Gala for another extraordinary night. For more information and how to donate to Tusk, click here.
Photos courtesy of Annie Watt and Tusk
Flyby Cures Hangover
Your stomach is queasy, your thoughts are disarrayed and your head feels like throbbing misery. We have all been there before. Common side effects of a hangover leading to us saying “never again”. But again comes, and so too does the whole process followed by the inevitable hangover. While 90 percent of the alcohol you intake is detoxified by your liver, the process can only happen so fast. Typically, the more drinks you consume, the more those troublesome hangover symptoms are stimulated. However, there is now a way to avoid the morning after migraines and not compromise on enjoying a night out with friends.
While many people have their own theories on how to speed up the post-binge recovery, only a few have proven to actually work for everyone. From eating greasy foods to chugging Pedialyte, there are many methods to recover from drinking. However, what if there was a preventative measure that you can take to stop the hangover from ever occurring? Would you give it a try?
On a trip to Japan, Eddie Haui, now creator and CEO of Flyby, was inspired by the result of trying a drinking supplement intended to reduce the negative side effects of over drinking. Eddie spent over a year of in-depth research and testing to create a product available in the states to ease waking up after a night of drinking. Flyby is now a hangover cure in capsule form, jam-packed with vitamins and nutrients to counteract the toxic buildup catalyzed by alcohol. The pills are gluten free and contain zero genetically modified ingredients to ensure the most organic nutrient replenishment. Working with your liver, instead of against it, Flyby was designed through science to support the body’s natural rhythm of metabolizing toxins.
To celebrate their official launch, the Garret East hosted an event on March 28, 2017, inviting guests to be some of the first to experience Flyby. Cocktails were complementary as well as individual packets for guests to grab before heading to the bar. Eddie is proud to introduce the successful result of hard work and determination, hoping to relieve many of a rough day with Flyby. Next time you head out with your friends, be sure to pop two Flyby tablets, or three if the night is young.
Photos courtesy of Ethan Covey
The Lately
Chelsea just added a new bar to their already all-encompassing nightlife scene. LDV Hospitality and Den Hospitality, two of New York’s most exuberant restaurant groups teamed together to bring The Lately- a cocktail bar and restaurant in the heart of Meatpacking. Located at 357 West 16th St, if the address seems familiar, that is because it was the former space of nightclub/celerity hotspot No.8. The Lately offers the rustic feel of an escape to a luxurious cabin upstate without ever leaving the city. Guests can sit back in a booth, hang out in the living room area or relax by the bar’s glowing fireplace. The decor is comfortable, yet modern and lively, a truly unique location for the area.
The drink menu consists of a tiered system to cater to the likes of all Lately-goers. Tier one features classics and signature favorites such as the Moscow mule and margaritas. The second tier elaborates upon these to create innovative concoctions utilizing fresh juices, amaro, and activated charcoal. The last tier, and therefore the most daring, makes those timeless drinks everyone knows and loves unrecognizable. Tier three options, The Glad Fact and The Ultramaroon, hardly mimic their tier one counterpart, but provide a whole new taste and blend of ingredients to the signature cocktail menu.
Coworkers can grab drinks after work during the week until 2 AM. For the end-of-the-week crowd, the Lately will stay open until 4 AM Wednesday through Saturday. For those who also want something tasty to complement their cocktail, the kitchen menu consists of dishes influenced by the street food culture of the city.
After a grand opening on March 24th 2017, the Lately is now open to the public and welcomes all to stop in, grab a drink, and have fun. Work your way up to a tier three cocktail or, if you’re feeling adventurous, start off with the Ultramaroon.
Photos courtesy of Asia Coladner
Guggenheim YCC Party 2017
FlucT
An architectural wonder of New York City, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is as unique in construction as the art displayed inside. The art exhibited within the museum is both contemporary and modern with a concentration on pieces of 20th century and present-day design. The Guggenheim is a remarkable place to experience continuous artistic innovation and cultural diffusion
Quenton Stuckey
Founded in 1996, the Young Collectors Council (YCC) has added more than 140 pieces of artwork to the Guggenheim’s permanent collection. The council, in collaboration with the Young Collectors Council Art Fund, encourages and financially supports both developing and reputable artists of contemporary focus.
Kim Brandt
On March 9th, 2017, the YCC invited guests to the famous Guggenheim rotunda to celebrate an outstanding 20 years of supporting the arts. Only one party can dragged all of its distinguished gusts way uptown for an unforgettable night. Before the festivities, invitees were treated to an intimate dinner and cocktails at the Wright, the highly rated restaurant located within the museum itself. Afterwards, the museum came alive as celebration began in the late hours of the night. Throughout the night, guests were treated to modern dance performances by Kim Brandt, FlucT, Sam Roeck, and Quenton Stuckey. These young members definitely knew how to have fun and were urged to let loose on the dance floor to sets from DJ Ryan McNamara.
Ryan Mcnamara
The event space was truly unique, offering a carousel of multiple floors open to exploration. The rotunda walkway led guests upward for a view of the event from above. However, no matter how far up you went, the party was never too far away -- or out of sight. The crowd was full of energy and the dancing continued late into the wee hours of the night. However, before leaving, guests made sure to take pictures with the wall of red and purple flower appliqué constructed specifically for the event.
Anne Huntington, Lauren Hinkson, Alexandra Economou, Kyung An, Noreen Khalid Ahmad, Susan Thompson, Ylinka Barotto
Michael Xufu Huang, Caroline Hoffman
The Guggenheim, typically only open during the day, re-opened its doors for art and fashion enthusiasts in celebration of the YCC’s 20 years. Funds raised from the evening will continue to benefit the work of contemporary artists and the masterpieces collected for permanent display within the museum. To make sure you are part of this amazing party next time be sure to check out all the latest happenings, including events like this one, at guggenheim.org.
Photos courtesy of BFA and Guggenheim
Lincoln Center Young Patrons Gala
On the night of November 28, 1966, guests dressed in gowns of black and white concealed their identity in true masquerade fashion and celebrated in the ballroom of New York’s Plaza Hotel. Only 480 invitations were sent out in the mail, offering acceptance to only the most distinguished guests. The event? Truman Capote’s illustrious Black and White Ball, held to honor the city’s media heiress of the time, Katherine Graham. On March 2nd, The Young Patrons of Lincoln Center invited guests to partake in a re-imagining of Capote’s legendary night to celebrate the performing arts center and its dedicated members.
The night was filled with lively entertainment, cocktails, and special guest performances. Masks were encouraged and attire was specified to “black and white festive” alluding to the Black and White Ball of the past. Floor length gowns and suits of black tie’s best graced the hardwood floor of the ballroom in tribute. Famed DJ set from Hannah Bronfman and Brendan Fallis had the guests dancing the night away.
The Angel Orensanz Center remains a spacious, architectural masterpiece, the perfect venue for a masquerade ball. The space still resembles the original 19th century construction, transporting guests back to a feeling of true historical masquerade celebration. The lighting of the place illuminated a misty glow of purple and blue, an ambiance extenuated by stained glass and the interior detail of the former synagogue.
Guests danced, laughed, and mingled until the clock struck 11. A photo booth and red carpet prompted both fun and serious photo taking, capturing memories sure to last. From the start of the party to when it was time to grab coats, smiles stretched as far as the dance floor.
The Young Patrons of Lincoln Center Gala was held in awareness for the arts and inspired connections throughout their community of loyal members. Members support the success of Lincoln Center through attending the gala and other special events, conducting public outreach and contributing generous donations to the program. By taking part in festivities such as these, members are able to meet and enjoy the company of others sharing the same passion for the arts and inspire others to become involved.
Photos courtesy of YPLC
The Armory Show 2017
The Armory Show is a renowned international art fair that has been taking over Pier 92 and Pier 94 annually for over two decades. The fair runs for four days and features art from the 20th and 21st Century, offering a mixture of well-known contemporary pieces and new emerging artists who are just beginning to establish themselves in the world of visual arts. It is an opportunity not just for art lovers who wish to lose themselves within the many high quality pieces on display, but also a chance for collectors to connect with galleries from all around the globe, meeting curators and art professionals alike.
Five unmistakable exhibitor sections help you find your way through nearly two centuries of international art. This year the Show was divided into Galleries, Insights, Presents, Focus and Platform. The highly anticipated Platform debuted this year and features large-scale, sometimes interactive, installations, art works and commissions.
Wandering around the 250 000 feet area that the exhibition has occupied, you get to see people from all walks of life coming to enjoy art. It is as eclectic as the pieces themselves; everyone from college students working on an assignment over families enjoying a day out to polished art professionals are strolling around. And just as many languages can be heard, which is not surprising since the Armory Show boasts works from over 200 galleries from 30 different countries all around the world.
Every so often you stumble across a Champagne Lounge, where people are wandering about between the white walls separating the different galleries, enjoying something sparkly and chatting up a storm. The entire atmosphere of the show is relaxed and welcoming, which is probably a part of the reason it attracts about 65,000 visitors every year. Everyone can find their niche, everyone will find something amongst the vast space that captures their eye and their hearts, lingering with them long after they have left the Armory Show.
Photos courtesy of Teddy Wolff and BFA
The Blonds F/W 17
Image: EB Consults
The Blonds Fall/Winter 2017 runway show was a magical experience from start to finish. Guests stepped into a mystical wonderland filled with enthusiastic guests and loyal fans of the avant-garde brand. Previous collections from The Blonds have been influenced by both classic cinema and imaginative films of the modern era. For their Fall/Winter 2017 collection, inspired by Universal Pictures' upcoming film The Mummy, The Blonds present a narrative collection based on the story of an ancient princess whose destiny was unjustly taken from her and who is awakened in our current day.
Image: EB Consults
With a view through their uniquely glamorous lens, The Blonds collection is an interpretation of the evolution of The Mummy's title character, a fearless warrior who has embraced her destiny. Using the conflict caused by juxtapositions — hard ornamentation that embellishes rich voluminous fabrics versus soft textiles that have been harnessed into structural pieces such as The Blonds classic corset — The Blonds' vision appears with each piece, revealing the complex-yet-commanding spirit of the woman who wears it.
Image: Getty
Pictured: Randy Jackson, Paris Hilton, Guest, and Adam Lambert sitting front row
Guest who sat front row at the show included Adam Lambert, Cardi B., Miss J Alexander, Randy Jackson, Hayley Hasselhoff, Hrush Achemyan, Paris Hilton, Sharaya J., Leigh Lezark, Grace Mitchell, Bebe Rexha, Krysta Rodriguez, Toni Romiti, Amanda Steele, Joe Zee, Patrick Starr, Patricia Field
Image: Getty
As the collection is presented in pairs, duality is the overarching theme. One girl is a manifestation of pure, elevated fantasy worthy of center stage. The other is her twin, a wearable, real-world embodiment of the powerful woman who walks among us. After each model made their way down the catwalk they then went to pose in separate cohesive groups in the center of the runway in with matching colors, fabrics, and themes, giving guests the ability to not only see the collection in its entirely, but also individual themes within.
Image: EB Consults
They biggest surprise of the night was when the last model walked off stage, Phillipe himself appeared as a mummy in full drag and a showstopping over-decorated catsuit. It was the perfect finale outfit that would suit your favorite diva of any gender or identity.
Congrats on an incredibly unique show! A special Thanks to Emily from EB Consults for inviting us!
photos courtesy of EB Consults
Irina Vitjaz F/W 17
The Austrian-Russian designer once again paid homage to her family’s ancestry which is strongly linked with Russia’s own history, going as far back as the 17th Century. Irina’s ancestors served the Tsar with a nobility,elegance and flair that she incorporated into the designs she presented at her Fall/Winter Showcase.
The show was held at Skylight Clarkson Square, the vast space transformed into the backdrop for her designs. Apart from the runway itself, everything from the walls to the seats were in black, with dramatic music blasting over the speakers. The atmosphere was bordering on somber, were it not for the designs being presented. The mood of the room, the darkness everything was delved in, served to draw all eyes onto the models strutting the clothes down the center -- and by the looks of it, no one was able to turn away.
The majority of the looks were floor length evening or bridal gowns, most of which were embellished with Irina Vitjaz’ typical flair and drama. The emphasis in the collection was particularly on the play with fabrics, teaming see through mesh shirts with long velvet skirts, flowing silk over a figure hugging dress and shiny textures demanding the attention they deserve. The designer clearly was not afraid to add more and more, embellishing many already attention grabbing gowns with beads and sequins.
Apart from the clothes, the models were all styled naturally, their hair arranged in soft curls, barely any makeup and nude heels in order to really let the gowns speak for themselves. And speak they did: Irina Vitjaz took a bow at the end under enthusiastic applause, proving that her flair for embellishments and dramatic statements was a gamble that paid off.
Photos by Ashley Gallerani
Maison The Faux Presents Faux Cosmetics
A lipstick brand that is proud to help you find your inner FAUX-self? Maison the Faux takes pride in the humor and sense of irony instilled in their brand image, and Faux Cosmetics will surely be no different. The fashion house has created a cosmetic line of dramatic looks encouraging individuality, expression, and rebellion. In fact, their debut collection is said to be composed of only a few main ingredients such as confusion, desire, recyclable trash, and glamour.
Maison the Faux, translated to the “Fictional House”, is renowned for their slight mockery and reactive responses to mainstream fashion. To embrace the individual style of potential wearers, the line consists of shades given clever and distinct names such as ‘Shocking Suede’ and ‘Narcissistic Nude’. The brand encourages all to be a little rebellious with their choice in color.
The premiere of Faux Cosmetics took place on February 11, 2017, during NYFW in Pier 59 Studios. To present the brand new collection, a runway show was held in pure Maison the Faux fashion. Models were dressed in ensembles of lacquered jackets and lace-up sets of tops and bottoms completed with fishnet tights and thigh-high boots.
A few models fled down the runway in a hurry, lipstick in hand, to tease the crowd with the new product. Others carried full trash bags or pushed trash cans of pink flowers, all of which were at some point left on the catwalk during their walk. However, each model had one unmistakable detail: dramatically smudged lipstick. The ultimate ironic aesthetic: challenging the norm of perfectly lined lips with the humor of purchasing a lipstick to wear it messy. The show closed in a fury of supportive claps and hollers, ensuring the concept of Faux Cosmetics had been well received.
Photos courtesy of Maison The Faux
Alexander Wang F/W 17
By now, most people know that an Alexander Wang fashion show is not just a show, but an experience. This season was no different.
Wang has a history of staging his shows in unconventional locations. In the past, a Brooklyn greenhouse, a church, and even a bank have all been locations for the WangFest. This time around, he continued that tradition by staging his Fall/Winter 17 in the abandoned historical RKO Hamilton Theater on Broadway and 146th street in Harlem.
The invite declared, “no after-party”, a theme which was repeated throughout the night on entrance wristbands and on models’ tights.
The thought of a Alexander Wang show without an after-party sounds almost ludicrous, however, Wang turned it up a notch to ensure the show itself was a party. Upon their arrival at the historic theater, invitees were presented with a sea of Peroni kegs making certain that no guests were to stay thirsty.
After grabbing a drink or two, guests made their way to the “standing room only” stage where the music by MetroBoomin was literally ground shaking.
Wang fest is usually one of the most anticipated events during the fashion week, infamous for its celebrity-packed guest lists. The Wang Gang rolled deep, as a flood of black SUVs crowded outside the theater hiding inside them countless super celebrities from all walks of life. VIPS like A$AP Ferg, Teyana Taylor, Sofia Richie, Fetty Wap, Ansel Elgort, and Brooklyn Beckham were just a few on the epic guest list. Kylie Jenner, accompanied by Tyga, was also present to cheer on her sister Kendall and friend Bella Hadid.
While the Spring/Summer collection was refreshingly all sportiness and colorful with models in vibrant bikini tops and variation of scuba gears. For the Fall/Winter collection, old habits die hard for Wang as he relapsed to his trademark all dark garb theme.
Lead by star models Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner, the collection featured a series of skintight leather trousers, militaristic suit jackets, metallic tailored dresses, and graphic tees – a look in which Bella killed, in a good way. Alexander Wang knows what the people want.
And as long as there are fashions weeks, there will be people dying to experience Alexander Wang.
The NYLON Project
The prominence of homelessness affects individuals and families within cities and communities nationwide. Specifically, New York City has experienced a devastating 115 percent increase in homelessness in just the past twenty years. The NYLON Project is a new initiative aimed to unify and encourage positive change within the metropolitan and the homeless community. Jordana Guimaraes, the founder of the NYLON Project, understands the project might not be the solution, but it is a huge step in the right direction.
The project will utilize social media to create a platform of experiences, messages and personal journeys by using the tag #ItCanBeYou. The intention of the tag is for everyone to share their connection to homelessness and any community involvement in aiding this demographic. This campaign will demonstrate the reality of homelessness and the difference in decision-making that could avoid or lead to a life without a home. The focus is to create an understanding of the circumstances that caused these individuals to become homeless and to eliminate judgment of their situations.
Influencers and celebrities have come together to spread awareness of the issue and committed their time to inspire change. Christina Milian and Jenni Farley (JWOWW) are just two of the twenty-five influencers who have dedicated their time in speaking out on behalf of the NYLON Project.
To launch the initiative, the NYLON Project hosted a New York Fashion Week event on February 7, 2017 at The Delancey. Guests enjoyed networking and live performances from the band FAULKNER, singer Che’Nelle, and The Voice season 11 contestant, Wé McDonald. A runway show highlighted the personal stories of homeless members within the New York community. All twenty-five influencers involved with the campaign modeled in the show, carrying cardboard signs with messages from homeless people written in black ink. The attire from the fashion show was sponsored by many chic brands including Anje Clothing, Belle Fare, Fair Harbor, JayDee, Eternal Springs, SCRD, Wild Mantle, SoFrancisco, Karli Buxton, The Valencia, Mana Made Jewelry, Lonewolf Collective, HERO New York, Conscious Step, Mr. Custom Made, ARMARIUM, House of Eleven and Alkemi Collective.
The launch was an immense success and the NYLON Project is officially active in the movement to end homelessness. The focus will start with the New York City community and hopefully will soon touch lives worldwide.
To help or donate to The NYLON Project click @nylon_project
Photos courtesy of Nylon Project
You're Killing Me Susana: Review
You’re Killing Me Susana is a dark romantic comedy based on the book Ciudades Desiertas by Jose Augustin. The movie follows the turbulent relationship between intellectual writer Susana (Verónica Echegui), and Eligio (Gael García Bernal), her loving but controlling actor husband. Our first glimpse of their relationship is Eligio coming home drunk late at night after we see him flirting with other women. The first fifteen minutes of the movie continue on this way until Eligio realizes that his wife has left. This already sets up the uneven power dynamic and emotional exchange of their relationship. It made sense story-wise and thematically that Susana had very few lines as Eligio was very selfish in their relationship.
Watching Eligio’s journey from Mexico to small town Americana is one of the more captivating parts of the movie. The visual contrast between the lively vibrant streets of Mexico and the overcast gray landscape of Iowa perfectly illustrate Eligio’s drastic re-orientation. The film is subversive in that the relationship between Mexico and the United States parallels this power dynamic between Eligio and his wife. Whereas back home in Mexico Eligio’s status as male allowed him to do as pleased, immediately upon entering the US, Eligio’s movement and autonomy are restricted. Indeed before he is even allowed to enter the country he is subjected to a cavity search, the ultimate threat to a traditional sense of masculinity.
The movie of course ends with him spanking his wife. Thus he in a sense “reclaims” his masculinity. There is also a very intimate relationship between Eligio’s performed hyper-masculinity and whiteness in the United States. It’s under siege throughout the entire movie, whether it be by the white woman in Susana’s class who teaches him how to shoot a gun properly, or being chased down by the police for not paying cab fare or the final insult when Eligio catches his wife having sex with a Polish man.
It’s tempting to view Eligio as nothing more than an overly controlling and paternalistic figure. But his position in many ways parallels the US and it’s relationship to foreigners and people of color. Eligio is most interested in Susana when she conforms to his idea of what a good woman and a good wife should do. He appreciates her talent as a writer but in many ways brushes that aside in favor of her appearance. Eligio upon entering the United States is immediately exotified and sought after mainly for his perceived attractiveness and fitting the idea of what a Mexican “should” be. And while Eligio is bumbling he has a somewhat misled sense of superiority and haughtiness, which looks comedic in the face of his many ineptitude.
Eligio manages to shed his toxic masculinity for the most part when he returns home to Mexico. Eventually Susana comes back to Eligio and they are a couple again. But only after Eligio spanks her into saying she loves him. The movie ends with them smiling after having more or less the same kind of argument they always have. It’s implied that they will get back together and possibly fall apart the way they did before. The hanging ending invites the viewer themselves to ask “is it all worth it?” without ever forcing an answer on anybody.