Jazz at Lincoln Center Big Band Holidays
On December 13th, 2017, Jazz lovers and music enthusiasts alike gathered at the Jazz at Lincoln Center for a chance to experience the highly anticipated Big Band Holidays annual New York City tradition.
No one quite throws a holiday party like Jazz at Lincoln Center! The beloved tradition continued with Wynton Marsalis leading an all-star lineup through the festive romp. The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra was joined by Jazz royalty Catherine Russell as a special guest vocalist for the second year, continuing a spirited partnership that spreads cheers throughout many cities. This year, Catherine was join by another Jazz at Lincoln Center favorite, fellow vocalist Kenny Washington, who recently brought his Home for the Holidays program to delighted audiences at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola.
The arrangements were inventive and varied. With playful improvisation, and entertaining storytelling, they brought out the magic in such classics as Count Basie’s “Jingle Bells,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and Billie Holiday’s “I’ve Got my Love to Keep me Warm.” The band's performances were amazing in their high intensity and polish. Enjoyed by audiences of all ages, these uplifting holiday performances created lasting memories that will keep you feeling good throughout the season. As always, the Lincoln Center Orchestra delivered a quality performance.
After the amazing show, all the guests were invited to the Hang Set, which is created for music fans ages 21-40 to experience Jazz with exclusive pre and post show events all included in the price of the concert ticket.
The special performance of Big Band Holidays - Relaxed Performance also returned for the second year in a row. The Relaxed Performance is designed to provide families with children or adults with autism, learning difficulties, or other sensory and communications needs the opportunity to enjoy Jazz at Lincoln Center performances in a more comfortable environment.
Over the past three decades, Jazz at Lincoln Center has become an important advocate for jazz culture and arts education globally. Jazz at Lincoln Center has produced more than 1,200 original concerts in the New York City area, and that tradition is likely to continue as they have recently moved to the always buzzing, Columbus Circle. Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola located on the 5th floor of the Time Warner Building is a jazz and culture destination. The 140-person venue is one of the most intimate places to see some of the best artists to take the stage against the incredible backdrop of New York City. The Club offers more than 350 nights of music, with two sets at 7:30pm and 9:30pm each night and late night sessions at 11:15pm Tuesday-Saturdays. The place is a must see for any type of occasion.
For more events and information please visit: http://www.jazz.org/calendar-full.php
Photos courtesy of Lawrence Sumulong
Big Band Holidays & Hang Set
The beloved New York tradition continued at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and company warming up the House of Swing with soulful renditions of holiday classics. The must see performance ends this Sunday December 17. While you’re there, also visit the world renowned Dizzy’s Club which features southern cuisine, seasonal cocktails, and incredible nightly jazz overlooking the Manhattan skyline.
Photos by Lawrence Sumulong
The Anime NYC Experience
On November 17th, 2017, NYC became host to a new convention: Anime NYC, which highlights Japanese culture, specifically the anime, manga, and games. There is hope that Anime NYC will become a real contender as a convention, “...we believe Anime NYC has the potential to become the largest anime convention on the East Coast,” says Greg Topalian, founder of LeftField Media. Contemporary anime has certainly become a nationwide sensation. The veteran anime streaming service, Crunchyroll has begun to step up their game, acquiring licenses for several popular anime and even simulcasting Japan’s seasonal anime. At the beginning of this year, Amazon announced their own anime streaming service, Anime Strike. Netflix has also commenced a curation of their own catalog of anime. A culmination of these factors brought us Anime NYC.
At a convention like this, there must be cosplayers. Every turn was met with done up faces, decorated costumes, and dedicated character performances. Check out our gallery for a taste. Those not dressed up showed their love for the medium by purchasing merchandise from their favorite anime series, attending panels, or participating in one of the several arcades in the Japanese Arcade section brought in by Tokyo Attack!
Attendees could also visit booths in which exhibitors displayed goods. As expected, much of the merchandise was intended for anime fans--figurines, wall scrolls, and clothes galore. Booths that were not necessarily anime related were present in a coexistent nature. Particularly, BentOn’s bento boxes providing a small palate of popular Japanese foods, or jplushy’s cute and cuddly plushies. The artist’s alley of Anime NYC took up a generous section in the fourth level of Javits. Talented artists were able to flex their art for show, and hopefully pick up a few fans or even sales.
The following outlines my experience with the panels at Anime NYC:
The day began with a guest panel titled, Anime 15 Years Ago. Doug Wilder, an anime industry expert and self-proclaimed anime geek, helmed the talk. He led the audience through the history of anime, from when it was only just a fledgling medium to its current explosion of popularity in the West. He told us that anime on television was a large factor in the West’s love for anime. Series that were dubbed in the West such as Lupin the Third provided the initial jump. He spoke of the late night timeslots on Adult Swim, on Cartoon Network, which were occupied by anime. There came a rise of mecha anime, a category of anime that created a niche fanbase for itself. Subject matter of anime have since become more varied across the years. Wilder brought up the fact that physical media was difficult to obtain, thus expensive. Two episodes of anime on DVD were equivalent to buying an entire completed series on Blu-ray now.
The industry panels I visited thereafter catered towards die-hard anime fans. Those who wished to hear of the announcements of future Blu-ray releases of their favorite anime were given what they wanted. Companies like VIZ Media and Aniplex gave their announcement of limited edition box sets of several anime, such as Pokemon, One Punch Man, and Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. An anime’s popularity was apparent with each announcement with exuberant cheers. Funny story. During VIZ Media’s panel, they did “trivia” and gave away prizes, trivia in quotes because most answers were apparent. One cosplayer in a JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure costume was chosen to answer a question, a question based off the series his character is in. Who is the original author of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure? Silence. An actual fan quickly picked up the correct answer. During Aniplex’s panel a raffle ticket was given out to each attendee. 4493679. That was my lucky number. The second drawing happened to be mine. I received a Sword Art Online figurine.
I would like to briefly mention a few other panels I attended. Go! Go! Nihon’s How to Live and Study in Japan panel provided insight for those interested in, well, living and studying in Japan. How to Take a Selfie, a panel help cosplayers step up their selfie game or just to up one’s Tinder profile game, teaching lighting, posing, and editing.
Food Loves Tech
On November 3rd and 4th, 2017, food and drink innovators and enthusiasts gathered at Industry City, Brooklyn, to explore the developing relationship between modern technology and food systems at this year’s Food Loves Tech (FLT) symposium. Hosted by food magazines Edible Manhattan and Edible Brooklyn, the event was described as an “education-by-entertainment innovation expo.”
The two-day expo was designed to give attendees a chance to experience multiple immersive installations, interactive tastings, leadership panels, and a one-of-a-kind sensory experience that united art, tech, food, and drinks. Edible Manhattan and Edible Brooklyn Editor-In-Chief Brian Halweil mentioned that the event will be careful to not only highlight those novel technologies that solve what they call “#firstworldproblems,” like faster ways to order food online, but also spotlight the technologies and startups that are “compelled by a mission to fix our broken food system.”
The event kicked off on Friday with the Future of the Cocktail event, where expert mixologists and bartenders served up cutting edge cocktails that featured several innovative brewing and distilling technologies. A few Industry City tenants were also represented, including avocado bar Avocaderia, whole-animal salumeria Ends Meat, and artisanal beverage product Barrow’s Intense Ginger Liqueur.
Guests were treated to taste exclusive dishes and drinks from alternative, plant-based proteins, sustainable seafood and produce, and incorporate greens from local rooftop farms such as Gotham Greens and others. Featured chefs included Chef Mike Anthony from the Gramercy Tavern, Chef Michael Chernow from Seamore’s, Chef Winston Chiu from bonbite, and Chefs Nicole Gajadhar and Brad Farmerie from Saxon + Parole. A particular fan favorite was the impossible foods sliders, which was a vegetarian slider that was incredibly meaty and juicy.
Rounding it all out, the "On the Horizon" section delved into the technology aspect of future foods. BeeHex (who have developed a 3D printed food system) printed smiley face cookies. SELFEE, a photo booth that printed guests’ faces on edible cookies truly showed us that a food and tech future is a fun one.
Panels will take place on both days and evolve around topics like High Hopes: Can Vertical Agriculture Help Us Produce More Food, More Sustainably?; How Should We Grow Food for the Future?; How Can Technology Help Us Mitigate Food Waste?. One of the most interesting conversations was “How Tech is Changing How We Drink” were guests were able to enjoy the discussion, while tasting the Belvedere samples served in Martini glasses.
From vertical farming and food distribution to virtual reality menus and plant-based proteins, FLT united food and drink innovators, thought-leaders, and enthusiasts, to invite them experience a special future of food and drink exhibition.
Holiday House NYC Gala
John Stedilla & Tim Button-Winter Solstice-Photo Alan Barry
On Tuesday, November 15th, the highly distinguished Holiday House NYC returned to the Academy Mansion to celebrate it’s 10th anniversary with an extravagant Open House Gala, benefiting The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). Each year, more than 20 interior designers transform the four story mansion into fascinating and wondrous displays. This year was no different, with all the rooms exhibiting magnificently re-imagined spaces displaying luxurious modern décor trends. The highly anticipated event drew more than 400 design fanatics to the unveiling of the showhouse, which featured the first-ever kitchen and kids’ room designs to be included at the Academy Mansion showcase.
Magness Interiors-New Year's Eve- Photo credit Costas Picadas
Founded by breast cancer survivor Iris Dankner in 2008, Holiday House NYC has become one of the City’s leading interior design showhouses, and is the first one to raise crucial funds for the prevention and cure of breast cancer. In honor of the 10-year anniversary, Dankner captured the history of the showhouse’s designs in her new book, Holiday House: Ten Years of Decorating for a Cure, which chronicles 10 years of design by over 75 interior. Iris Dankner hosted the opening-night gala and conducted the ribbon cutting.
Charles Nafie Hall (vertical)
Proceeds from the evening, and from general admission ticket sales, will benefit BCRF. “We salute Iris and the design community for embracing our mission to be the end of cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research. The extraordinary talent on display in Holiday House and the design community’s commitment give us meaningful capacity to fuel progress,” says Myra Biblowit, President & CEO of BCRF.
Kim Radovich Interiors - Christmas Dinner Dining Room-Photo by Alan Barry
Participating designers included: Robin Baron Design Inc. Björn Björnsson Interior Design LLC, BJS Assoc. Interior Design, Vanessa DeLeon Associates, Genevieve Gorder, Groves & Co., Rio Hamilton, Jacqueline Hosford Interior Design LLC, Young Huh Interior Design, Alyssa Kapito Interiors, Natalie Kraiem Interiors, Patrik Lönn Design, Lucinda Loya Interiors, Magness Design, Mannarino Design Inc., Charles J. Nafie Design, Kim Radovich Interiors, James Rixner, Cheryl Settino Mosher, Cynthia Spence Design, Stedila Design, Touijer Designs LLC, and Jaime Walters.
Jaime Walters -Throw Back Thursday Kids Room-Photo by Kalen Hollomon
While every room had their own uniqueness and personality, two rooms truly resonated with the guests. The remarkably named Throw Back Thursday (TBT), designed by renowned Brooklyn-based Interior Designer, Jaime Walters, in partnership with leading children’s design brands kinder MODERN and Oeuf created a playful, transitory atmosphere that celebrated the nostalgic memories of Throwback Thursday in the modern world.
Jaime Walters Nursery -Photo by Kalen Hollomon
The bedroom design is both playful and sophisticated, the soft neutrals punctuated with bright colors and plush toys. These elements combine to create a fun, fabulous room that has space for the ever-developing childhood imagination, while referencing youthful nostalgia, and wonder.
Lucinda Loya -Opposite Day Bedroom- Photo by Alan Barry
Another room that caught people’s attention was the “Opposite Day” room, designed by Lucinda Loya. A first time participant in the annual showhouse, Lucinda really showed her artistic edge and her signature playful use of color, pattern and texture. Featuring a timeless, high-contrast palette, her space is indisputably unique and invigorating to the senses. The Juxtaposition of black and white paid a homage to the Hotel Room in Steven Spielberg’s Hotel Room in the film – 2001: A Space Odyssey. The design concept made a striking and memorable impression on the visitors.
Rio Hamilton - 10 Years of Holiday House-Photo by Alan Barry
The designer showhouse will be open to the public through December 6 at the Academy Mansion (2 E. 63rd St.) To visit the showhouse and to support BCRF please purchase tickets here.
ABOUT HOLIDAY HOUSE
Founded by Iris Dankner and co-chaired by interior designer heavy-weights Alexa Hampton, Thom Filicia and honorary co-chair Christopher Hyland, Holiday House New York is an interior design exhibition which raises crucial funds for the prevention and cure of breast cancer. Proceeds from all ticket sales benefit The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). For more information, visit http://www.holidayhousenyc.com
ABOUT THE BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) is dedicated to being the end of breast cancer by advancing the world's most promising research. Founded by Evelyn H. Lauder in 1993, BCRF-funded investigators have been deeply involved in every major breakthrough in breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. This year, BCRF will award $59.5 million to support the work of more than 275 scientists at leading medical and academic institutions across 15 countries, making BCRF the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide. BCRF is the highest rated breast cancer organization in the U.S.—the only one with an "A+" from CharityWatch and Charity Navigator’s highest rating of four stars. Visit www.bcrf.org to learn more.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HOLIDAY HOUSE: http://holidayhousenyc.com/
Instagram: @HolidayHouseDesignShows
Twitter: @HolidayHouseNY
Special Thanks to Helen and Charlotte
Photos courtesy of Holiday House
Shhhowercap Season II
In a time where people are constantly busy and the Dry Shampoo business is thriving, one of the most essential items a girl can own is a shower cap. Unfortunately, most shower caps you see have cheap material and are physically unappealing. It is true that some people may not mind wearing a simple $2 cap for the fifteen minutes that they are in the shower, but for those who prefer to feel and look luxurious during their self-care time, look no further. Shhhowercap has exactly what you need.
On Thursday November 2nd, Shhhowercap released their second season line of caps. The room was filled with people who came out to see the show; some already knew about the brand and some were hearing about Shhhowercap for the first time. I was among those who had just heard of this company. The entire crowd was blown away when the models began to strut around the Skylight Modern in these gorgeous headpieces. When I heard about a fashion show for shower caps, I was a tad skeptical and definitely was not expecting something so chic. On their website, they refer to it as a “waterproof turban” which sounds about right. I would consider wearing these out in public, let alone my shower.
Upon first hearing about this brand, I thought it had to be too good to be true that a shower cap was stylish and actually protected your hair from water. I was completely wrong. In fact, Shhowercaps are designed to be much more versatile than your traditional shower cap. These caps are made with nanotechnology and repel water on a molecular level, therefore the water beads up and slides right off, leaving your Shhhowercap dry the moment you step out of the shower. Have you ever noticed that your shower caps all tend to get a little gross after some time? The Shhhowercap avoids that issue with their innovative fabric with antibacterial properties, guaranteeing that it always stays good as new. The rubber grip will ensure that your Shhhowercap never leaves an indent on your forehead or stretch or snap. The best part is, they fit everyone.
I got home from this show and I could not bear to look at my pink plastic shower cap that is falling apart at the seams. For anyone looking to self-indulge and make their shower time feel like luxury, check out these Shhhowercaps at their website here.
Photos courtesy of https://www.shhhowercap.com.
TCG Gala 2017
Tony Award nominees, loyal theater-goers, and community advocates gathered for the annual Theater Communications Group Gala held this past Monday. The event, now in its sixth year, was held at Espace, a venue that made attendees forget about their frigid night in midtown, and instead took them to a space reminiscent of a Miami nightclub.
The Theater Communications Group (TCG) offers services including networking, grantmaking, and professional development to the theater community. The organization has made huge strides in the field, and received the Tony Award for Excellence in Theater for recognition of their efforts.
The Gala is a night for TCG to celebrate their achievements of the past year and raise support in continuation of their programs. This year, the benefit honored the National Council for American Theatre and the creative team of War Paint, the Broadway musical. Guests dressed up in a festive array of gowns and suit-and-tie attire to enjoy drinks followed by dinner and performances.
Besides the selection of red and white wine available, classic liquors including 12-year Glenlivet, Patron, and Bombay Dry Gin were used used to create a collection of cocktails that would appease anyone. Between the flowing drinks and passed hors d'oeuvres of bruschetta and endives stuffed with diced beets, guests had ample time to get acquainted before taking their seats.
Marshal Jones III, TCG board member, opened the night by describing the appeal of performances: “We attend to be put in seats that take us outside the theater.” Anyone skeptical of Jones’ bold statement would soon be taken aback. Samuel E. Wright, known for his roles as Sebastian in The Little Mermaid and Mufasa in the original Broadway production of The Lion King, encapsulated the audience with performances of a few of his signature songs, including “Under the Sea.”
Witnessing moving performances and hearing about the impact TCG created in the past year made guests keen to back the organization. Members from all over the country told stories of how TCG brought nearly 1,000 theater practitioners together during their National Conference in Portland, OR, and awarded $1.184 million in grants to support audience engagement projects. When prompted to text a pledge to the non-profit, promises of donations ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars splayed across the screens. The room raised over 36 thousand dollars.
With victorious energy still in the air, the night wound down with dessert and a performance of “Dinosaurs” by John Dossettt and Chris Hoch of War Paint. After official award acceptances and closing remarks, no guest left empty handed. Piled on each table were copies of TCG books to take home, which included Water by the Spoonful, among 14 other Pulitzer Prize winning plays. Considering the lush price for a ticket, who would have expected any less?
Special thanks to the Theater Communications Group Board of Directors
Photos courtesy of Natalie Bero and Annie Watt
About TCG:
For over 55 years, Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for U.S. theatre, has existed to strengthen, nurture, and promote the professional not-for-profit theatre. TCG’s constituency has grown from a handful of groundbreaking theatres to over 700 member theatres and affiliate organizations and more than 12,000 individuals nationwide. TCG offers its members networking and knowledge-building opportunities through conferences, events, research, and communications; awards grants, approximately $2 million per year, to theatre companies and individual artists; advocates on the federal level; and through the Global Theater Initiative, TCG's partnership with the Laboratory for Global Performance and Politics, serves as the U.S. Center of the International Theatre Institute. TCG is North America’s largest independent publisher of dramatic literature, with 15 Pulitzer Prizes for Best Play on the TCG booklist. It also publishes the award-winning American Theatre magazine and ARTSEARCH®, the essential source for a career in the arts. In all its endeavors, TCG seeks to increase the organizational efficiency of its Member Theatres, cultivate and celebrate the artistic talent and achievements of the field, and promote a larger public understanding of, and appreciation for, the theatre. www.tcg.org
NYSPCC Annual Food and Wine Gala
The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NYSPCC) hosted its annual Food & Wine Gala at the prestigious Metropolitan Club on November 7th, 2017. The event was attended by business leaders, public figures, and major philanthropists who enjoyed an evening of inspiration and action. The gala, which is the highlight of the organization’s year, celebrates NYSPCC’s continued work in investigation, removal, and placement of abused and neglected children.
This year’s gala featured renowned Chef Michael Ferraro, co-owner and executive chef of New York’s Delicatessen and Macbar, who designed a one-of-a-kind, four course menu for the roughly 250 guests. The food was delectable — most notably, Chef Michael’s fennel pollen dusted Long Island duck breast with coriander confit carrots, which was perfectly paired with a selection of wines, including those from La Scolca, Marziano Abbona and Baer Winery.
While the guests were enjoying their phenomenal meal, the evening’s host, Deborah Norville, Inside Edition anchor, and member of The NYSPCC’s Children’s Council, led a fascinating discussion on all things food with Nina and Tim Zagat, the co-founders of the world-famous Zagat Guide. Norville has been a strong supporter of NYSPCC. Her passion to support the program came from her roots as a local reporter in Chicago, which deeply motivated her to continue help exposing child abusers in New York City. She has served on the Children's Council for years, and has emceed the Food & Wine Gala many times.
"The statistic in New York is that every day there are 244 reported cases of child abuse," said Norville, stressing that many abuses go unreported every day. "That means that during the time we're at this dinner, 30 kids will be physically assaulted, sexually abused, or just emotionally traumatized. All the money that is raised here goes to help those children heal," Norville continued.
Celebrated auctioneer Harry Santa-Olalla steered the gala’s reverse auction; and the entire event raised over $700,000 to fund The NYSPCC’s Trauma Recovery Program, which offers a specialized therapeutic program for children, ages 5-18, who have experienced physical or sexual abuse, neglect, traumatic bereavement, or who have witnessed family violence. The agency’s unique work serves as a model for child welfare agencies across the nation.
“We are the go-to agency for New York City” said Dr. Mary L. Pulido, Executive Director of The NYSPCC, who delivered a heartfelt speech about the need to protect children from abuse and neglect. “When you hear about a horrific story in the media, we are called to help. When a child endures indescribable abuse, we are called to provide counseling in our trauma recovery program.” Dr. Pulido introduced a video that featured the Society’s programs and personal stories from some of the children who have benefited from them. One of those children, now an adult, was Private First Class Alex Miranda, who was present at the event and received a standing ovation from the audience.
Child abuse is a national tragedy which affects millions of children and families every year. We need to work together to help strengthen and support families so that we can prevent such tragedies from occurring. This night's gala reiterate our belief in the American spirit and its power to bring renewed energy and commitment to securing the future of our Nation’s children.
ABOUT THE NEW YORK SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO CHILDREN
Established in 1875, The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NYSPCC) was the first child protection agency in the world. Throughout its distinguished history, The NYSPCC has sought to develop and implement innovative mental health, legal and educational programs that protect children from harm and ensure their healthy development.
Today, the organization offer and promote programs aimed at the prevention of child maltreatment and the lessening of its harmful effects. Since its incorporation 140 years ago, The NYSPCC has investigated more than 650,000 cases on behalf of over 2,000,000 children. The NYSPCC has also educated over 50,000 professionals who work with children on how to identify and report suspected child abuse and neglect.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NYSPCC: https://www.nyspcc.org/
Twitter: @NYSPCC | #NYSPCCGALA
NYSPCC Food & Wine Gala
The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (The NYSPCC), the world’s first child protective agency, is hosted its fifth annual Food & Wine Gala on Tuesday, November 7th, 2017, at the Metropolitan Club in Manhattan. This annual event brings together prominent business leaders, public officials, and philanthropists to help raise vital funding for the organization.
Food Loves Tech
Powered by Edible Manhattan and Edible Brooklyn, Food Loves Tech (FLT) is an education-by-entertainment innovation expo. From vertical farming and food delivery to virtual reality menus and plant-based proteins, FLT unites food and drink innovators, thought-leaders and enthusiasts to experience the future of food and drink.
Psychedelic 4D Music Experience 'Peroration 6'
On the evening of Thursday, October 26th, the 4D music experience “Peroration 6” was showcased at a VIP screening and opening at the Jump into the Light VR Cinema and Play Lab. “Peroration 6” is a mesmerizing music experience performed by Sam Shepherd and his Floating Points band that captivates all of the senses. This London-based electronic music group provides viewers with a unique simulation that takes place in the Utah desert.
With 3D glasses and headphones stimulating the feeling of wind and thunder, up to four viewers at a time were able to experience this creation at the VIP event. Every ten minutes, “Peroration 6” was screened for a new group. Virtual reality creative director Fabien Coupez and software/hardware engineer Yannick Leblanc, the installation designers, were both at the event providing guests with information regarding their creation. “Peroration 6” is a virtual reality immersive music experience that has been officially selected for the 2017 Raindance Film Festival as well as the 2017 Future of Storytelling.
The VIP screening and opening party included an open bar for guests to enjoy. Additionally, a number of virtual reality games and activities were set up throughout the party for people to test out while they were not experiencing “Peroration 6.” The venue of the party was fully decorated with technology-inspired decorations, projections, and lights. Overall, this VIP opening party provided guests with an entirely new way of experiencing music: one that envelops all sensations.
Photos courtesy of Light VR Cinema and Play Lab
Boxer Bowtie Club 3rd Annual Gala
The Boxer Bowtie Club celebrated its 3rd Bowtie Benefit on Saturday, October 28, 2017 at Hudson Mercantile. The annual Gala is the highlight of the year, bringing together supporters and friends of the foundation for a memorable evening that featured heavy hor d'oeuvres, open bar, and live music. Throughout the evening, guests were able to bid on the silent auction which was stocked full of incredible finds to help benefit The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, a New Haven summer camp for seriously ill children and their families. Each child spends a week at the camp; the usual cost of attending is $2,500. All proceeds from donations, sponsorships, and ticket sales will go toward the group’s goal of sending kids to camp free of charge. The Gala raised a grand total of $90,000 dollars which will give many kids the chance to experience camp.
The evening began at 7:30 with a cocktail reception, which was followed by guest speakers and live auction at 9:00. The evening's high point was the passionate speech given by Zak Stengel, a camper from The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp with severe hemophilia. Zak, who hopes to one day be a counselor at the camp, told of impact the camp has had on his life. “I am here today because of what you guys, thank you so much for everything,” he said. “At camp every kid gets to have fun and we get to be ‘normal’ and that’s what we all just want.” Zak’s mother also joined in to share her gratitude to camp, declaring: “You people give us happiness, and this event gives us hope as parents.”
After the speeches, a full live band came out and everyone got on the dance floor and celebrated the night away. There are so many kids and their families who deserves to experience what Zak and his family have received. With the help of the Boxer Bowtie Club and its supporters, many more kids can have this life changing experience and feel “normal”. Learn how you can get involved with one of our volunteer opportunities or donate at boxerbowtieclub.org/grow
ABOUT HOLE IN THE WALL GANG CAMP:
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp provides seriously ill children and their families a real summer camp experience, believing that every kid no matter their diagnosis deserves a chance to let loose and raise a little hell! To ensure that every child with a serious medical condition has the chance to experience the world of possibilities that camp has to offer. Through the generosity of others, The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp community provides this unique healing experience to kids in need and their families, including those who may not be able to come to Camp.
ABOUT BOXER BOWTIE CLUB:
The Boxer Bowtie Club is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded and operated by a group of young professionals from around the country. Their objective is to volunteer and raise money for worthy causes within their communities and inspire other young professionals to give back to those in need. They are proud to commit 100% of their net proceeds to the charities they support. They take a passionate and fully engaged approach to three core principles which serve as the driving force behind our organization. Their core objectives are: Gather: we gather people together; Give: we give to those in need; Grow: together we further expand our reach and strengthen our communities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BOXER BOWTIE CLUB: https://www.boxerbowtieclub.org/
Instagram: @Boxerbowtieclub | #Bowtiebenefit #ShakeitForCamp
Photos Credit: Daniel Federowicz
Art After Dark at The Guggenheim
On a Friday night in an unusually warm October, a crowd of Halloween and art lovers gathered to spend the night at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. There, dressed-up attendees were able to dance their night away, while receiving the first opportunity to view a new exhibition at the Guggenheim called, “Art and China after 1989: Theater of the World”.
The exhibit, which is located in several rotundas at the museum, is a provocative, thought-provoking, and controversial display of work from 71 Chinese artists whose work challenged official government policy and popular opinions during the late 1980s and early 1990s. From an installation from 1993, titled, “Otherwhere: Not Speaking for Three Months”, by Yang Fudong, who chose not to speak for three months and documented his notes through photo and film, to series of tweets presented in two large glass cases, which were a part of the “Citizens’ Investigation” piece by an activist and artist Al Weiwei, the exhibit is an ultimate eye-opener into a contrasting universe, where freedom is a blessing rather than a given, and political views are to not be openly discussed.
Although the exhibit was on a more serious side of the spectrum, the Halloween party added a splash of joy into the atmosphere. It took place throughout the museum, allowing plenty of witches, magicians, and flappers to browse its rotundas while listening to the newest music by Cardi B and Beyoncé. While some were captivated by art, others were engulfed by the atmosphere; dancing and chatting, which was a great way to celebrate one of the first Halloween parties of the year.
Art and China after 1989: Theater of the World will be on view until January 7th, 2018, allowing everyone to enter the world of Chinese history and art. Witness all of the art pieces on view first-hand, and transport back in time to see the Chinese cultural tension between its art and its politics. Find out more about the exhibit by visiting, https://www.guggenheim.org/exhibition/art-and-china-after-1989-theater-of-the-world.
Photos courtesy of Guggenheim
Rosewood Theater's Private Preview Party
On the night of October 25th, Rosewood Theater hosted a private sneak preview party to showcase it’s all new “adult playground” before its official opening on October 26th. Rosewood Theater is a modern twist on classic gentleman’s clubs, offering guests various performances, great music, dancing, drinks, and more. Men and women alike can come to Rosewood Theater any given night and have an entirely unique and individualized experience.
At the sneak preview party, guests enjoyed specialty house cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. As people socialized and relaxed around the comfortable leather seating and furniture, two acts were performed. The first was an interactive burlesque tease by a woman dressed in full gentleman’s club attire, and the second was an interpretive dance by a man with shockingly impressive gymnastic abilities. Additionally, guests enjoyed battling one another in games of Prosecco pong over rhythmic music played by the DJ.
Rosewood Theater’s two-floor area, stage, and bar provides guests with a great deal of space to get lost in time. The old-school style chandeliers, dim lighting, and decor of the venue create an atmosphere that is unlike many others that exist today. The enjoyment that guests got out of the preview party was a clear sign of the future success of Rosewood Theater as an adult playground unlike any other.
Photos courtesy of Oleg March
Nura Launch Party
On the evening of Thursday, October 19th, nura, a new cutting-edge Australian headphone company, unveiled its remarkable technology at its launch party at Liberty Hall in the Ace Hotel. The nuraphone is an over-the-ear pair of headphones that is self-learning and adaptable. These headphones adjust to each user’s unique ears, providing a personalized, clear sound.
For the nura launch party, the spacious Liberty Hall was transformed into a modern, technological venue with fluorescent lights, a projected video of a woman enjoying her nuraphones on the wall, and upbeat music. Guests were provided with comfortable seating, an open bar with a specialty drink menu, and savory hors-d’oerves to enjoy while the CEO of nura spoke about the headphones, explaining the brand history and details behind the innovative technology. He outlined key characteristics that differentiate the nuraphone from other headphone models. These include sonic moulding (adaptability), dual layer isolation, wireless connectivity, inova, and deep immersion. Additionally, guests enjoyed a live audiovisual performance at the event by music code designer Felix Faire. Felix played music on his computer system while a graphic screen behind him matched his crafted rhythms and tunes.
After the speeches and performance at the launch party, guests were taken in small groups to a downstairs level in order to experience the nuraphone through personal demos. During this portion of the evening, guests sat around a long table and were provided with headphones synced to iPhones. As the nuraphone adjusted to each user, users were able to experiment with different sounds and select music to listen to via Spotify.
Overall, the nura launch party was an informative and captivating look into what the future of headphones holds.
Photos courtesy of Nura
Food Film Festival 2017
For the 11th consecutive year, the Food Film Festival returned to AMC Empire 25 to continue its tradition of marrying food and film in the ultimate celebration of gastronomy.
Food Film Fest
For the 11th consecutive year, the Food Film Festival returned to AMC Empire 25 to continue its tradition of marrying food and film in the ultimate celebration of gastronomy.
The festival, by far the most sensory experience available to New Yorkers, is unique in that event goers can not only see delectable dishes on screen, but taste them, thanks to restaurants taking the time to recreate the meals. Showcasing the best independent food-films, cinema fans also enjoyed an array of an incredible selection of food, both local and international. Still, the festival is not just a feast of self-indulgence -- it makes an effort to show how each dish has evolved from or contributed to a certain aspect of culture, as seen with the first night of the event, a homage to chef James Beard that featured the film James Beard: America’s First Foodie. Guests feasted on original recipes from Beard’s cookbook, Hors D'oeuvre and Canapés, including his famous Onion Sandwich (complete with his mother’s mayonnaise recipe), Leeks à la Grecque, Strawberry Shortcake, and Crepe Suzette -- all while learning about his life and legacy in American Cuisine.
The next day, the Food Film Festival presented “Hometown Heroes,” which paid tribute to original New York City eats. VIPs enjoyed bites from Win Son, a Brooklyn based Taiwanese Restaurant, before watching the short films 1 Minute Meal: A Documentary Portrait of NYC, The Science of Dry Aging, Seared, Sacred Gin, Hometown Hero: The Legend of New York’s Chopped Cheese, and Why Rappers Love Grey Poupon. Guests were treated both during and after the films to recreations of the featured dishes, including the original chopped cheese from Hajj’s Blue Sky Deli up in Spanish Harlem, dry aged beef from DeBragga, and peanut butter and jelly donuts from Leske’s Bakery.
For the third day of the event, the Food Film Festival brought back its famous Food Porn Party, this time focusing on Japanese Cuisine, with dishes such as ramen and takoyaki. There was a special screening of the cult Japanese film Tampopo, as well as the U.S premiere of Taste of Love, a short film that explored the relationship between food and sexual pleasure.
The event culminated on Sunday morning with (of course) a full on brunch, complete with pastries from Bread’s Bakery and coffee from Q Coffee and films such as The Hungover Origins of Brunch and Finding Pisco. Like most brunches, it was both a celebration of what had happened and a conversation about what was to come -- the festival will return in all its glory next year, with just as satisfying a food and film lineup, so be sure to get your tickets then.
For a full list of participating restaurants and films, check out http://thefoodfilmfestival.com/
Edible Escape 2017
On Thursday, October 19th, Edible Manhattan hosted their Edible Escape at Pier A Harbor House. The event was any foodie’s dream with all the guests sampling an assortment of globally inspired food and drinks, all prepared locally.
The 7th annual Edible Escape tasting event offered New Yorkers the chance to give their tastes buds an escape from local eateries and enjoy international cuisine without ever leaving the island of Manhattan. Always well planned and thoroughly enjoyable, guests were treated to some amazing dishes and drinks from various upcoming restaurants and purveyors of fine food and spirits. Edible Manhattan tapped some outstanding local restaurants to play a role in this year’s event utilizing Brooklyn, Manhattan and even some Long Island chefs for the occasion.
The Pier A Harbor House is among the finest and most distinctive venues in New York City with the brightly lit up backdrop of the Hudson at night. It was the perfect event for those who want to check out up and coming caterers, chefs, beverage vendors, and restaurants.
Among the many bites and booze on offer, highlights of the 2017 Edible Escape included: Wölffer Estate Vineyard • Discover Long Island • Martha Clara Vineyards • Greenport Harbor Brewing Co. • Halifax Restaurant • T Shop • Môtô Spirits • Loire Valley Wines • Health-Ade Kombucha • Orwashers Bakery • Tea Drunk • Badshah Modern Indian Restaurant • Califia Farms • Chomp Chomp • Paulaner on Bowery • Beecher’s Handmade Cheese • First and South • Italienne • Manousheh • Luzzo’s • Ghost & Grits • Schilling • New York Cider featuring Brooklyn Cider House • Birds of a Feather • Hiro Sake • Wines of Argentina • Bruce Cost Ginger Ale • Balvanera • Pier A Harbor House • The Tango Company • Tuthilltown Whiskey and Hudson Whiskey • Severan • Connor McGinn Studios• Insatiable EATS Catering and Event Specialists • Chopt Creative Salad Co. •
One of the best things about living in New York is the food scene. And besides trying new restaurants, one of the best ways to get a real taste is to attend one of the many food events that take place throughout the city. Edible Manhattan is a bi-monthly food magazine, covering news about local foods, food culture, restaurants, beauty and passion of the wine, variety of healthy recipes, drinks and food markets. Devoted to promoting great food and communities, Edible Manhattan and Edible Brooklyn frequently host some incredible events such as Food Loves Tech, Grand Tasting, and Edible Good Spirits. For those attending for the first time, this is a major treat.
Icla da Silva Foundation Hope Gala
On October 18, 2017, the Icla Da Silva Foundation held its annual Hope Gala – a fundraising benefit to support patients in need of a bone marrow transplant -- at Guastavino’s in New York City. The annual Gala is the highlight of the season, bringing together benefactors and friends of the foundation for an unforgettable evening. This year marked the 25th anniversary of the organization’s dedication to saving lives.
The extravagant event was attended by business leaders, top influencers, major philanthropists, and many past recipients who enjoyed an evening of inspiration and action. The affair celebrated the foundation’s work to encourage everyday people to step up and become a donor.
The evening began at 6:30 with a cocktail reception, which was followed by a seated dinner at 7:30, when guests were greeted with a homemade soft dinner roll. An appetizer of a napoleon of grilled vegetables was followed by a main course of pepper crusted filet mignon. Caramelized peach cobbler was served for dessert. Throughout the evening, guests were able to bid on the silent auction which was stocked full of incredible finds. The Gala would go on to raise a grand total of $400,000 dollars.
The program continued with the awards presentation. Dr. Jeffrey Chell, CEO Emeritus of Be The Match was presented with the Legacy of Hope Award while East River Medical Imaging, a medical diagnostic imaging center based in New York City, received the Healthcare Leadership Award. Both of these awards were presented by Traci Fox, a patient who has been with the organization for over 10 years, and who has yet to find a match. “She takes an oral chemotherapy drug daily and except for occasional fatigue, is tolerating the medicine well and never complains. I want to find a match for my daughter, and the people in this room tonight gives me hope,” said Traci’s father.
"There are people who are alive because of the work we do,” said Icla da Silva Foundation’s President and brother of Icla, Airam da Silva. “Our job is not done, until every patient that needs a bone marrow transplant, receives one. Legacy is not leaving something for people, it’s leaving something in people. It’s because of Icla that today we continue to save lives.”
The evening's high point was the emotional first-time meeting between a patient and his life-saving bone marrow donor. Bone marrow patients are not able to meet their donors until at least one year after a successful transplant. Tancrede Bouveret met his life saving bone marrow donor, Samantha, for the first time. The two ran across the stage and gave each other the biggest hug. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. “A part of me is with him now, I feel like we forever bonded. I would do this again in a heartbeat,” said Samantha when asked if she would donate again. Samantha also had a message for the people who are hesitant about donating: “imagine yourself in that person’s shoes, what if it was you or a member of your family that needed a lifesaving match, you would not be hesitating at all.” After the emotional meeting, everyone got onto the dance floor and partied the night away.
There are still so many people in the world that need lifesaving matches. Do your part and sign up to be a donor. People often think of bone marrow donation as a very painful procedure. However, this is not the case. Registering to be a donor involves nothing more than filling in a form followed by a self-administered and painless cheek cell swab using four Q-tips, which are then packed up and sent through the mail to be processed and eventually stored in the National Marrow Donor Program Registry. In only ten to 15 percent of cases is it necessary to administer a general anesthetic and remove cells from the pelvic bone, which results in few days of soreness – alleviated, say the donors. Please go sign up to be a donor so we can help people like Traci and thousands of other patients like her that are waiting for life saving bone marrow transplants
ABOUT TANCREDE BOUVERET, BONE MARROW PATIENT:
Tancrède was born at the Naval Medical Center of San Diego on May 14, 2004. His father, Luc Bouveret, always dreamed of having a child, and so with the help of a surrogate in California, Tancrede entered the world.
In March of 2015, Tancrede was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), which progressed into Leukemia. The fathers were notified that their son had less than a 10% chance of survival. The only cure is to receive a matching bone marrow transplant. After several months, a 90% match came through. With great hope, the fathers asked to wait a little bit longer for a 100% match. Three weeks later, in July of 2015, a 100% matching donor was identified in Madison, Wisconsin. Tancrede received his transplant on July 29, 2015.
Due to complications, he spent almost 2 years in the hospital. His body needed an additional transplant of lymphocytes, which the donor agreed to, without hesitation. Tancrede is now 13 years old and despite his illness he continues to lead a normal life. Although still in recovery, taking an abundant amount of medicines, antibiotics, monthly chemotherapy and blood treatments, he is persistent on keeping his above average attendance in school. Tancrede has a knack for learning. He speaks four languages, is socially conscious, and has his own YouTube channel.
His fathers insist that none of this would be possible with the Icla da Silva Foundation and his life-saving bone marrow donor.
ABOUT ICLA DA SILVA FOUNDATION
The Icla da Silva Foundation was established in 1992, in memory of the 13-year-old Brazilian girl named Icla da Silva. After two years of fighting leukemia, Icla passed away in New York City, where she came hoping to get her life saving treatment: a bone marrow transplant. The young girl never found a matching donor. Upon her death, her family established the Foundation with the mission to save lives by recruiting bone marrow donors and by providing support services to children and adults with leukemia and other diseases treatable by marrow transplants.
Now in its 25th year, the Foundation, The Icla da Silva Foundation is the largest recruitment center for the Be The Match Registry in the United States. The Foundation holds over 2,000 bone marrow drives every year. It recruits over 38,000 new potential bone marrow donors every year, with a strong focus on minority communities.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ICLA DA SILVA FOUNDATION: https://icla.org/
Instagram: @Icladasilvafdn | #BeTheMatch
Special thanks to Jennifer