#DRinNYC
Looking for the perfect winter getaway? I’ll let you in on a secret (pun intended): it’s the Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa in the Dominican Republic.
The resort, which is located on the eastern tip of the island, boasts ocean views, a full service salon, and eight elegant restaurants reserved exclusively for guests. In addition to their top tier accomodations, the resort offers a multitude of activities for guests to partake in, including beach volleyball, aerobics, dance lessons, snorkeling, sailing, and even Spanish classes.
At night, guests have the option of staying in or watching a movie on the beach, listening to live music or seeing a show at the indoor theatre. The resort also hosts themed party nights for those who need a break from relaxing. What more could you want?
To demonstrate the quality of their hospitality, Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa, along with the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism, hosted a “Day in the Dominican Republic” at the Royalton Park Avenue Rooftop in NYC.
True to their word as a first class spa resort, the event featured a spray tanning booth and manicure stations, along with Caribbean inspired bites and refreshing passionfruit cocktails. Many guests also took fun pictures with the preset photobooth, which proudly displayed the hashtag #DRinNYC. All these elements made the Royalton Rooftop the perfect first taste of what life could be like...down in the DR.
So if you’re hoping to get out of shoveling the next time we get hit with a blizzard, check out the Secrets Cap Cana Resort…. the Dominican Republic’s best kept secret.
Photos courtesy of #DRinNYC
Beer, Bourbon and BBQ festival
On January 27th, 2018, the Beer, Bourbon and BBQ festival was held at the Porchlight in New York. The spectacle was a feast for both the eyes and the mouth. All the patrons were treated to an assortment of southern inspired food and drinks.
More than 3,000 people showed up to the the festival, which served more than 60 kinds of beers, 40 kinds of bourbons, and a whole lot of barbecue. Food Tastings featured pit masters / chefs as well as some of NYC’s finest BBQ and Southern cuisine restaurants. Dishes included pulled pork, ribs, and brisket, all slow-cooked, succulent, and served with any fixin’ you could imagine.
The highlight of the night was definitely the whole hogs. The tender pork with the special homemade sauce hit the spot just right. Alongside the BBQ dishes, appetizing finger foods and delicious desserts were also served.
One of the reasons why the event is so enjoyable is probably the variety of drinks they have prepared. So many choices and all the vendors were generous with servings. Many of the staff would even fill your tasting glass to the brim. All you could consume for hours - wonderful or insanity - it's all how you look at it.
The atmosphere was bumping, with an awesome DJ playing and people dancing inside the spacious venue.
If you want to enjoy southerners live by beer, bourbon and barbecue, I absolutely recommend this festival. We came, we drank, we ate pork, and we pillaged and plundered. Looking forward to doing it all over again next year.
For more information, click here.
Coyote Ugly Saloon turns 25th
Everybody knows Coyote Ugly, the much-loved local dive bar that transformed into an international icon after the success of the movie of the same name. in the aftermath of the The bar has been a fix in the village for celebration of all occasions. Ever since its opening, out-of-towners flooded the New York City bar, which quickly became a favorite stop for tour buses. A fun place like no other, wild, wild and wild.
Coyote Ugly Saloon celebrated their 25th Anniversary in New York City on January 28, 2018. Founder and muse behind the 2000 movie, Coyote Ugly, Liliana Lovel (aka“Lil”) celebrated with a packed bar of family, friends, and the famous Coyote Ugly girls boot stomping on top of the bar.
Justina Valentine of MTV’s Wild ‘n Out performed freestyle on top of the Coyote Ugly bar while roasting the crowd alongside two dancers. Continuing with their tradition of providing fans with the unexpected, a contortionist showed off her flexibility while a bearded lady hosted a beard contest, and New York City’s famous Naked Cowboy closed out the event while performing ‘Pour Some Sugar On Me.’
Also in attendance were Drita D’Avanzo of VHI1’s Mob Wives, Broderick Hunter of HBO’s Insecure, Donald Paul of FX’s Atlanta/ABC’s Quantico, and Monte Bezell of NBC’s The Black List.
About Coyote Ugly Saloon
Coyote Ugly Saloon is the most famous bar on the planet with 26 locations in 8 countries, with more locations opening every year, including Japan in February 2018. The Coyote Ugly legend began in 1992 when Liliana Lovel (aka“Lil”), a 24-year old Wall Street apprentice-turned-bartender gained notoriety for her antics on the bar, as well as behind it. Tired of working for other people, Lil was ready to make her move. The plan was simple; open her own bar, make money, and have fun doing it. Determined not to let anyone or anything get in her way, she drew up a business plan and the first Coyote Ugly Saloon opened its doors on January 27, 1993. Over the years Coyote Ugly has meant different things to different people. Some come in just to get yelled at by Lil and to drink cheap tequila out of her boots.
Coyote Ugly Saloon quickly established itself in the hearts of New Yorkers as the preeminent drinking establishment when it gained national attention in early 1997. The article, “The Muse of the Coyote Ugly Saloon”- written by former Coyote bartender Elizabeth Gilbert (author of Eat, Pray, Love) for GQ- directed a spotlight on the little bar in the East Village. Shortly after that, Hollywood came knocking and the movie rights to Lil’s story were sold. “Coyote Ugly” opened in movie theatres in August 2000 starring Piper Perabo and Maria Bello. It grossed more than $100 million and a worldwide audience quickly learned what the phrase “We don’t serve water here!” meant.
Photos courtesy of Coyote Ugly Saloon
Secret Summer Aquarius
Aquarius is the eleventh astrological sign in the Zodiac. The Aquarius constellation is a summer constellation in the northern hemisphere. Under the tropical zodiac, the sun is in Aquarius typically between January 20 and February 18. The event will featured many delicacies of the sea as well as a bevy of sustainable seafood purveyors and premium wines & liquors.
Cochon555 NYC 2018
On Sunday, January 21, Cochon555 tour made its way to NYC and hosted their pork feast at SECOND. More than 500 guests gathered at the affair to binge on the over 1,500 pounds of heritage breed pork raised on family farms.
Every year, five chefs are chosen from each stop on the tour to compete against one another by cooking a whole heritage hog using their own pioneering techniques and flavor profiles. The winner from each city is dubbed the “Prince or Princess of Porc” and invited to compete in the national championship Grand Cochon, which is going to be held in Chicago on September 30th.
This year, the New York City’s Princess and Prince of Pork, were Ginger Pierce and Preston Madson of Jams by Jonathan Waxman, for the splendid consumption of an entire Mulefoot cross raised by Heather Sandford of The Piggery. The winning menu featured a Charcoal Roasted Chilled Loin, Pimento “Head Cheese”, Pigs Blood Tortilla Chip “Nachos”, Mulefoot Cracklings, Fried Bologna Sandwich, and the Bourbon Maple Bacon Push Pop to end on a sweet note.
The event also raised $3,800 for Cochon's sister charity, Piggy Bank, a start-up farm in Missouri that serves as a kickstarter for new family farms and a safety net for those in the wake of a disaster (flood, fire, and disease).
Additionally, winners were named in the Somm Smackdown -- best wine paired with heritage breed pork -- and Punch Kings -- a whole-bottle punch bowl competition featuring Breckenridge Bourbon. Kristen Goceljak of Little Park won Somm Smackdown with her selection; Parusso, 2013 Langhe Nebbiolo Spumante from Piedmont, Italy. Tom Walker of Pig Bleecker won Punch Kings with his “Confederate Punch”, combining mint-infused Breckenridge Bourbon, lime, sugar, absinthe, cucumber, sparkling water, and bitters.
The best part of the event was the communal feasting, which consisted of a 40-course gourmet tasting menu taken standing up with endless wines and hand-crafted cocktails from some of the best bars in New York City.
The Welcome Lounge ushered guests into the Buffalo Trace Punch Bar followed by the Signature Starter Bar and Cheese Experience featuring Cello, Cypress Grove, and local cheesemonger Formaggio Essex Market. Guests sipped sparklers from Topo Chico; enjoyed a signature Gin Cocktail Experience presented by Monkey 47 Schwarzwald Dry Gin; and The Manhattan Project featured premium bourbon from Eagle Rare, Buffalo Trace, and Breckenridge PX Cask Finish topped with Luxardo cherries.
Invitees learned about pairings at the TarTare Bar showcasing chef Garrison Price from il Buco Alimentari & Vineria and the wines of Antica Napa Valley; stunning wines from the portfolio offerings of Codorniu and The Lineage Collection paired with organic pates from Les Trois Petits Cochons, and the racy Wines of Germany paired with a culinary pop-up spotlighting a “Taste of New York City” with Chef Stefano Marracino or Paola’s.
Cochon555 also debuted a new experience called Trompo “Hora de Familia” hosted by Danny Mena of La Loncheria in celebration of its first Global Cochon555 event in Mexico City later this year. Just before awards, guests received a sweet ending via an Innovative Dessert Pop-Up highlighting celebrity pastry chef Zac Young of Craveable Hospitality and Cat Schimenti of Baked by the Ocean and Gelso & Grand.
Unlimited food, drinks, good people, and all for a good cause, what else can you ask for?
About the Cochon555 US Tour
The Cochon555 US Tour executes a yearly host of authentic, hyper-local food events focused on raising awareness for heritage breed pigs through the world’s first nose-to-tail pig cooking competition for the past ten years. This epic pork feast visits 20 major cities in North America annually and stages over 60 events. The tour is comprised of an array of live expressions including Heritage Fire (live-fire cooking in mountainside and vineyard settings) and Heritage BBQ (global grilling traditions). All Cochon555 events cultivate a long-term impact for heritage species raised by family farms, in top culinary markets in North America. Both educational and inspirational messages are circulated among 16,000 guests; 2,200+ chefs; 150+ family farms; and 16 culinary schools. Since 2009, 50,000+ consumers have experienced heritage pork, more than $500,000 has been donated to charities, and over $750,000 has been paid directly to our farmers. For more details and videos of events, visit www.cochon555.com or follow @cochon555 on Twitter and Instagram.
About Piggy Bank
Launched in 2015 by Brady Lowe - founder of the Cochon555 US Tour and Taste Network - Piggy Bank is a pig farming sanctuary. Harboring a Noah’s Ark-worthy selection of heritage breeds, it provides free genetics and business plans to emerging family farms. Piggy Bank aims to change the future of food by creating a community in which small farmers can learn about safer, more responsible practices and benefit from the sharing of genetics, livestock, and the very information needed to not just survive, but to thrive as small businesses. The Piggy Bank farm, located in Missouri, raises pigs to be gifted to communities dedicated to elevating the cause and expanding through a model of social and agricultural transparency. Piggy Bank is a nonprofit corporation with federal tax exempt status as a public charity under Section 501(c)(3). Follow the Piggy Bank conversation on Twitter @PiggyBankOrg. For more information, watch the video http://j.mp/PIGGY_BANK or visit www.piggy-bank.org.
Photos courtesy of Cochon555
Crypto Mondays
On January 15th, 2018, crypto fanatics gathered at Bagatelle, New York City, for the first ever Crypto Mondays Meetup. The idea of the event is for people are interested in Bit and Alt coins to discuss the current state of crypto world and make a crypto connection.
More than 150 people filled the spacious Bagatelle venue and some heated debates ensued on what the next money making coins was going to be.
Cocktails and delicious side foods like cheese, bread and tadaki tuna were served to all the patrons.
The event will be held every Monday from 6:30pm-9:00pm at Bagatelle until February. These gatherings are also slated to head to other cities including Miami later this month with NYC being first. Whether you are new to the crypto game or just want to learn about it. This is the perfect opportunity.
For accurate information, search ‘Crypto Mondays NYC’ on Meetup or click here
Editor’s Note: As of the day after the event, the value of the crypto market had crashed more than 50% putting future events in doubt, however, in the past few days the crypto market is steadily coming back again with the market recovering more than 35% after the crash.
Photos courtesy of Crypto Monday
The Sound Bite Restaurant
The Sound Bite is New York's newest jazz club offering live music and a taste of Southern, Cajun and Italian cooking. Chef (and Emmy Award-winning news anchor) Julian Phillips teamed up with his wife, renowned jazz vocalist, Barbara King, to create new spot in Hell's Kitchen.
In celebration of the public opening on Friday, January 19, 2018, media were invited to preview the restaurant the day before. Guests entered at the restaurant to the melodic and mellifluous voice of Barbara King, who serenaded the guests all night long. The interior of the restaurant looked like something straight out of a newsroom. The restaurant theme marries media with jazz melodies and pays homage to both industries – fully equipped for live broadcasting and live jazz performances. In addition, the walls are filled with autographed headshots of media and jazz icons.
A cocktail tasting started the event, and the drinks were intoxicating in a good way. The unique cocktail menu consisted of unconventional flavors, and was curated by nutritional biochemist, author and explorer Alex Ott. Ott has crafted beverage menus in more than 300 of the world’s most well known establishments. The Sound Bite’s cocktail names are derived from slogans used in the news industry like “The Live Shot,” “The Crash & Burn,” and “The Headliner.” The crowd's and my personal favorite was definitely "The Kicker."
At last came the the tasting. The eatery specializes in blackened wings and fusing Cajun, Southern and Italian flavors. Julian's Famous Blackened Wings, Southern smoked Mac-N-Cheese were passed out, and not surprisingly, nearly everyone asked for seconds, and even thirds. The delicious wings were some of the best I ever had, and the seasoning leaves your fingersnails bit dark, so be sure to lick them good afterwards.
The Sound Bite opens to the public today, so be sure to stop by today and look for dishes like Julian's Famous Blackened Wings and "The Kicker" to go along with it. The space will feature live jazz music Friday and Saturday nights and is also wired for live productions.
The Sound Bite Restaurant is located at 737 Ninth Avenue between 49thand 50th Streets.
Friends of the Budapest Festival Orchestra 2018 Gala
The Budapest Festival Orchestra (BFO) held its annual Friends of the Budapest annual concert and gala on Sunday, January 14, 2018 at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall.
The BFO, under the direction of Iván Fischer, played to a sold-out audience that included Edie Falco and Twyla Tharp. The program opened with Bach’s Orchestral Suite No. 2 played on period instruments---Maestro Fischer wife, Gabriella Pivon, among the performers. The evening’s soloist, pianist Dénes Várjon, received standing ovations, as did the whole Orchestra. In a fitting ending, Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No.2 closed out the concert. The beautiful music, which was sensitively conducted and exquisitely performed, was one of the best renditions I have ever heard. I had goosebumps throughout the whole performance.
Following the concert, Friends of the Budapest Festival Orchestra hosted a gala dinner with Daisy Soros presiding as the evening’s honorary chair and Kathryn Livingston Forgan, Christine Schott Ledes, and Kati Marton as the evening’s gala co-chairs. The dinner took place at the Grand Promenade just outside the entrance to the orchestra. Each table consisted of a member of the symphony to mingle with the patrons. Dinner guests included Tony Bechara, Ambassador and Mrs. Donald Blinken, Nancy Brinker, Noreen Buckfire, Susan Gutfreund, Sylvia Hemingway, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Lehrer, Governor and Mrs. George Pataki, Sana Sabbagh, Jean Sharfiroff, Stephanie Stokes, and Barbara and Donald Tober.
The 2018 gala committee included Susan Bender, Stephen E. and Radka Benko, Nicolette Pathy Bingham, Ambassador and Mrs. Donald Blinken, Ildiko Butler, Aaron Feinstein, Sylvia Hemingway, Ambassador and Mrs. Andrew Jacovides, Caron and Geoffrey Johnson, Andrew and Heidi Lee-Komaromi, Ambassador Ferenc Kumin, Doctors John and Daisy Merey, Mrs. Terez Rowley, Aniko Gaal Schott, Laine Siklos, Stephanie Stokes, Mr. and Mrs. David M. Tobey, and Sylvia Tóth.
Maestro Fisher used the occasion to announce the inaugural Vicenza Opera Festival and a performance of Verdi’s Fallstaff, concerts, and a dinner hosted by Countess Caroline Valmarina and her family. Like the concert, the October Festival will soon be completely sold out.
A special thanks to Laine Siklos, who was the most gracious table guest. Laine, who is on the committee, kept me entertained throughout the night. She was able to hold a conversation with anyone, and her presence exuded confidence and commanded attention in the best way possible.
ABOUT FRIENDS OF THE BUDAPEST FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA
The Budapest Festival Orchestra was founded by Maestro Ivan Fischer in 1983 and recognized as one of the world's greatest musical ensembles. The Orchestra performs over 200 concerts each year at the world's most prestigious music festivals (Lincoln Center's Mostly Mozart, Salzburger Festspiele, and Edinburg Festival), and concert halls (among them Carniegie Hall, Concertgebouw Amsterdam, and Musikverein Wein). Their many educational activities include special performances for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and a series of concerts in abandoned or neglected synagogues in small towns across Hungary, and the Juilliard Apprentice Program whereby Juilliard students study with Maestro Fischer and members of the Orchestra.
The Friends of the Budapest Festival Orchestra's mission is to support programs of the Budapest Festival Orchestra. Members have the unique opportunity to build a closer relationship with the Orchestra both in the United States and in the Budapest through special events with Maestro Fischer and the orchestra musicians. The Friends support the major programming initiatives of the Orchestra including Dancing on the Square, Community Weeks, U.S. touring, and the Juilliard Apprentice Program, as well as chamber music concerts with important visiting Orchestra members in Manhattan residences.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BFO: http://friendsofthebudapestfestivalorchestra.org/
Facebook: @bfo.en
Photo Credit: Patrick McMullan Company
ZenTaco Brunch
In November 2017, an intimate, fun restaurant called ZenTaco opened on the Upper West Side. Last week, they hosted a press-brunch to debut their new mouth-watering brunch menu.
ZenTaco is an Asian-Latin fusion taco shop owned by the Executive-Chef, Rene Garcia. The owner previously owned Verde Latin in North Carolina before making the decision to join his brother, Alex Garcia, who owns the popular A.G. Kitchen just down Columbus Avenue.
The ZenTaco brunch menu features Latin and Asian inspired dishes such as a Vietnamese Torta, Papas con Panza, Chilaquiles and Vegetable Fried Rice with a fried egg and a choice of meat. Vegetarians and vegans can choose to substitute meat with tofu. Everything I tasted was cooked and seasoned to perfection, my personal favorite dish was the Mexi-Tatertots. This dish includes potato tots, cheese dip, pico de gallo, crema, guacamole, cotija, and a fried egg. It was delicious.
Coming into an Asian-Latin restaurant, one would expect for their taste buds to burn a little bit (in a good way), but ZenTaco has got you covered. Something that makes this restaurant unique is their speciality Popsicle Cocktails including the Bloody Mary Pop, a Tequila Bloody Mary served with an Avocado Tortilla Popsicle inside, and the Strawberry Lemonade Mimosa Pop made with Orange Juice, Vodka and a Strawberry Lemonade Popsicle inside. Even on the freezing 9-degree day, these drinks were a huge hit.
ZenTaco is the perfect restaurant for a quality yet inexpensive brunch on the Upper West Side. For more information, check out their Instagram (@zentacousa) and their website http://www.zentacousa.com.
Photos courtesy of ZenTaco
Stax Ice Cream
Stax Ice Cream, located in China Town, opened on September 30th, 2017. The impressive new dessert spot was opened by two recently graduated, women entrepreneurs. During their time in college, their used to make ice cream as a hobby and upon graduation, they decided to pursue their passion instead of going along the traditional route of a 9 to 5 job.
The shop have interesting flavours such as Ube, which is made up of purple sweet potato, and Cornflake Bourbon. Jasmine Milk Tea, one of signature items on the menu, has a refreshing flower smell and a rich taste.
The freezing weather did not slow down the ample amount of customers from rushing into the cozy store for a quick sweet tooth fix.
Stax also offers unique donuts that will stimulate your appetite. One of the customer’s favorites was the Panda donut which tasted as good as it looked.
The hardest challenge facing most customers is choosing what to order. However, if you get a chance to stop at this place, their signature Carmella, a pressed donut ice cream sandwich is a must try. Ice cream is harmonized with donut so that flavour is more rich and savoury. They made three choices of donuts can satisfy various personal preference. After choosing donut type and ice cream, they put ice cream in between the donuts and wrap them up, then warm them up using a machine that seems to be used to press the panini.
There are lots of way to get information about them through their Facebook, Instagram (@Staxicecream) etc.
Enjoy Stax Ice Cream’s charm!
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