Scope Art Fair
Known for presenting groundbreaking contemporary work, SCOPE New York welcomed 60 international exhibitors at its centrally-located venue. In addition, SCOPE continued its legacy of critically-acclaimed VIP Programming, with a focused schedule of events, talks and screenings. The first fair to run concurrent with The Armory Show, SCOPE New York’s spirit of innovation has consistently forged the way for emerging artists and galleries. Attuned to nuances in the market and itself an influential force in the cultural sphere, SCOPE continues to usher in a new vision of the contemporary art fair.
The Vienna Philharmonic Society Event
At a private club The Vienna Philharmonic Society presented The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra for over one hundred benefit guests.
There are many grand fundraisers in New York, but some nights are special and this is always because of their hosts. Although the Chairman of The Vienna Philharmonic Society, Marifé Hernández, was unable to attend, her attention was evident everywhere. Resting comfortably at home, recovering from surgery, she still saw to the placement of every guest and every detail. Her beloved husband Joel Bell arranged a first - the evening was videotaped so she could see it. Guests were invited to record their own get-well messages for the much-missed chairman. Her warm presence was felt everywhere.
Following cocktails, there was a remarkable performance of the Octet in F Major by Franz Schubert, a signature piece of the Orchestra repertory. The concert and dinner were under the distinguished patronage of all the senior Austrian officials in our country including His Excellency Wolfgang Waldner, Austrian Ambassador to the United States and Mrs. Gudrun Faudon-Waldner; His Excellency Jan Kickert, Permanent Representative of Austria To the United Nations and Mrs. Latica Tomasic-Kickert; His Excellency Helmut Boeck, Austrian Consul General in New York and Mrs. Barbara Boehm-Boeck; Christine Moser, Director, Austrian Cultural Forum.
Through generous sponsorship of Vienna Philharmonic Society (in partnership with the Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall) Principal musicians from the Orchestra conducted Master Classes with former students of Carnegie Hall's National Youth Orchestra (NYO), all of whom are now Conservatory students in Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, New York City, Oberlin, Philadelphia, and Puerto Rico. The message to them throughout the day was legato – learning to play in a smooth, flowing manner, without breaks between notes, to play with passion, and to play as if you are making your instrument sing. Steeped in the rich history of the 176-year-old Vienna Philharmonic, the instructors emphasized understanding the history of each work and its author, to bring the music to life as the composer intended.
The Vienna Philharmonic Society, founded in 2016, is a New York based non-profit organization that supports and celebrates the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and works to extend its performances across the United States. Through a variety of educational programs with their partner, The Weill Music Institute at Carnegie Hall, including Master Classes for advanced students and music events for children in the community, the Vienna Philharmonic Society helps the Orchestra expand its contribution to the cultural life of New York and cities throughout the country.
Photos Courtesy of Da Ping Luo and Vienna Philharmonic
RIOULT Dance NY Winter Gala
John A. MacKinnon and Harsha Murthy were gala co-chairs of RIOULT Dance NY's Winter Gala, “Centered on the Future” and there was much to celebrate. The company will soon break ground on a new home in Queens.
Long-time friends of the company, actress Kathleen Turner and Tony-nominated Christine Andreas performances punctuated the evening. Kathleen sang a special rendition of It’s Only A Paper Moon and Christine sang Hymne á L’Amour (reprising her 2015 collaboration with RIOULT Dance NY). During cocktails RIOULT dancers performed duets. During dinner they performed last season’s premier, Fire in the Sky with music by Deep Purple and costumes by Patricia Field.
The gala honorees included RIOULT board member Joseph W. Armbrust accepting for his longstanding service to the company and his unique expertise in governance. Also honored were members of the Astoria community; Steinway & Sons with Anthony Gilroy accepting the award. For over 160 years they have been not only an integral part of Queens but also of the international arts community. Pascal Rioult proudly announced that the address for the new RIOULT Dance Center, 34-01 Steinway Street, shares their name. Also honored was Kaufman Astoria Studios with CEO Hal Rosenbluth accepting. He gave a moving tribute to their former CEO, George S. Kaufman, who brilliantly lead a revival of film and television production in New York, and passed away just last week at the age of 89.
“As RIOULT Dance NY looks forward to international touring, our 2018 season at the Joyce Theater, and prepares to take residence in the Kaufman Arts District in Astoria, Queens, it is encouraging to be surrounded by so many supporters and well-wishers. Every day I am inspired by my glorious dancers, and buoyed by a generous Board of Directors and dedicated staff. I look forward to deepening our relationships with honorees from the Kaufman Astoria Studios and Steinway & Sons, and creating new relationships with other Kaufman Arts District residents. Together we are forging a new path for RIOULT Dance NY, the greater dance community, and northwest Queens.” - Pascal Rioult
This summer, RIOULT will open the 11,000 square-foot RIOULT Dance Center in Astoria’s Kaufman Arts District with five studios including a flex-studio and performance space with seating for over 100 audience members. The opening of the RIOULT Dance Center will mark a pivotal milestone in RIOULT’s history, not only providing a permanent home for its professional company of dancers, but also offering the community a new world-class dance facility and school.
Photos by Eric Bandiero
The Hotline
A very special organization exists called The Hotline. We had the pleasure of attending a night of conversation at Sisley Paris for The Hotline, where we got to meet Katie Ray-Jones, the CEO, and learn more about the organization.
The Hotline is the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and it is so much more than a phone number. It is the only 24/7 national organization that has access to service providers and shelters across the United States to help people affected by domestic violence. When you go to their website you are greeted by a pop-up that tells you what to do in case you are worried about your internet usage being monitored. On their website you have access to details on what makes a relationship abusive in any sense, resources for victims and survivors, an informative blog, ways to get involved, and an online chat for those who are not able to make a phone call. The website covers all areas for someone looking for help or someone simply looking to get educated. The mission of The Hotline is to answer the call to support and shift the power back to people affected by relationship abuse. In a time where more and more people are gaining the courage to come forward and use their voice, organizations like this are so important.
Katie Ray-Jones is an exceptionally inspiring woman who has done so much for the domestic violence movement. She started as a therapist for victims, managed a shelter for victims, and managed the funding for the family violence program at the Health and Human Services Commission with the state of Texas before applying for a job with The Hotline and rising to the position of Chief Executive Officer. She is incredibly passionate about what she does and is looking for more ways to expand The Hotline to be even more helpful every day. Although this line of work can be emotionally draining, Katie Ray-Jones remains the strong, nurturing woman that these victims need when they call.
On average, twenty-four people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. Nearly half of all women and men in the United States have experienced psychological aggression by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Coming forward not only helps the victim, it also encourages others to do the same. For more information about The Hotline, visit their website at http://www.thehotline.org.
Special thanks to Stacy Dreyfus from The National Domestic Violence Hotline
together1heart Partners with JEZ Magazine
Last week, together1heart, an organization that works to protect the rights of young women who are victims or at risk of being victims of slavery, partnered with JEZ Magazine for a launch event in Midtown Manhattan. The event was a gathering of supportive future readers, photographers, editors, and writers, and it was hosted by the February’s cover stars, supermodel Carol Alt and Teen Wolf star, Ian Bohen.
The event was an opportunity to receive a first look at JEZ Magazine, as well as to meet individuals who support and are a part of together1heart. As the Executive Director of the organization, Bill Livermore, said, “This is an incredible evening for together1heart to announce a partnership with JEZ Magazine. JEZ is a special publication in that its focus is not just on fashion and beauty, but on how fashion and beauty is deeper than just appearance. To their core, they’re all about social improvement and ways they can work to raise the empowerment of women”.
The launch event was also a moment to discuss the future plans of together1heart, such as focusing on empowering survivors and supporting girls by including a scholarship program, which provides financial support for nine young women to their education at universities. Indeed, the partnership between JEZ Magazine and the organization is a special one due to not only focusing on culture, style, and fashion, as actor Ian Bohen pointed out, but also social change and helping the victims of sex trafficking, as mentioned the actor, Ian Bohen.
Supermodel Carol Alt then took over the stage, and voiced her admiration for the editor-in-chief of JEZ, Ezequiel De La Rosa. “I wanted to applaud Ezequiel De La Rosa, who is the publisher and editor of JEZ Magazine. And, by the way, he took all the photos of me as well.” For her cover shoot, Alt mentioned how her and De La Rosa traveled to Portugal, where she also ended up walking in a runway show. “Believe it or not, at this day in age, I walked in a show,” said the model, whose speech was followed by a room full of cheer and applause.
Although to launch a magazine in the digital age seems to be a risky move, JEZ Magazine and its contributors, along whom are Victoria Deblauss, Aylen Jover, Sophie Lyons, and Sara Sist, have launched not just a publication, but a creative call for social action. In the words of the editor-in-chief, JEZ hopes “to encourage a spirit of positivity, generosity and philanthropy,” and they are definitely on a mission to a successful future.
JEZ Magazine hopes to immerse readers into a multicultural world of original fashion and creativity, alongside heartfelt and enlightening interviews. JEZ hopes to encourage a spirit of positivity and philanthropy.
together1heart, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, works to ensure that the young women who are victims of sexual slavery and those at risk of becoming victims of it can get the help they need to live healthy, sustainable lives. For more information go to: www.together1heart.org
Photos courtesy of together1heart
The 63nd Viennese Opera Ball
The 63rd Viennese Opera Ball took place on February 2nd, 2018, at the legendary and newly reopened Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. The annual white tie charity gala celebrates the cultural and economic relationships between Austria and America, connecting two continents, two cities and two centuries in one glamorous night. Founded by Austrians immigrating to the United States more than 63 years ago, the night is a tribute to both their former home town,Vienna, and their new host city, New York.
Widely considered as one of New York City’s greatest annual events, the celebration has garnered international media coverage for more than five decades. The white tie attire, considered the most formal dress code, calls for all gentlemen to be outfitted in white tie and tailcoats with decorations, and for all the ladies wear long floor-length ball gowns and opera gloves.
Regarded as the most prestigious and oldest Viennese Opera Ball outside of Vienna, the festival drew a global audience that included diplomats and dignitaries, international corporations and celebrities. There event was nothing short of magnificent; and with four generations of guests, the Ball reflects the universal appeal of Austria’s traditional and culinary treasures.
Each year the Viennese Opera Ball supports charitable projects that are connected to communities in New York or Vienna. The proceeds of the 63rd Viennese Opera Ball will benefit the music therapy program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center with the support from Gabrielle's Angel Foundation for Cancer Research.
The gala evening featured Opera, Classical Music and Ballroom Dancing including, of course, Waltzing. One popular highlight was the Midnight Quadrille, conducted by Ms. Stockmayer.
The Ball opened with the Grand March of Dignitaries and Diplomats. The ceremonial tone of the Ball Opening continued with the Presentation and Posting of the Flags by a West Point Cadet Color Guard. Mr. Serafin then welcomed and thanked the debutantes, escorts and guests, before ballet dancers entered and performed accompanied by the orchestra, Divertimento Viennese. René Pape, operatic Bass and two-time Grammy Award Winner, then performed Le veau d’or from Faust by Gounod.
The Debutantes and Escorts then made their entrance, led by choreographer Sandra Stockmayer, who also acts as choreographer for the Vienna Opera Ball. The program continued with the Presentation of Debutantes and their dance Escorts. A choreographed waltz routine by young ballroom dance couples is followed by a call for "Alles Walzer!" (Everyone Dance!) and guests joined the dancers for the first official waltz of the Ball.
The Ball was literally a celebration from night till the break of dawn. Following a champagne reception, the Ball ran from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., and included a four-course dinner. The guests gained new strength at the late-night Austrian specialty buffet after a long evening of fête. The “Tanz Bar” (post-Ball party) followed from 1:00 to 4:00 a.m, and included a full buffet supper with the Viennese Opera Ball's Signature Goulash Soup, as well as multiple venues featuring: a DJ, Vienna Coffee House with Viennese pastries, and a Casino.
The event hosted nearly 400 guests including Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Peter Thomas Roth, CEO, Peter Thomas Roth Clinical Skin Care, Viennese Opera Ball Executive Director Silvia Frieser, Actress Selenis Leyva, Designer Nicole Miller, Two time Grammy winner Rene Pape, and International Committee member Laine Siklos, among others, all praised the debutantes and performers, and noted the event’s importance to the social and cultural fabric of New York City.
A special thank you to the lovely Laine Siklos, who provided us the invitation for the special evening.
Secret Summer Aquarius
On Saturday, January 27th, the normally industrial Long Island City was gifted with a bit of glamour through Secret Summer Aquarius, an “Arctic Chic” sustainable seafood and cocktail event.
Hosted at The Foundry LIC, the Aquarius event featured interactive, insta worthy rooms, for their fashion forward, millennial cliente. Guests could play around in a “white room” filled top to bottom with bright white balloons, lounge near the fire pits, dance to tunes spun by a live DJ, and even have a poem written in their honor.
Adding to the glitzy glam of the night were the live shows, including aerialist Sasha Hart, and the High and Mighty Brass Band.
Still, the real star of the night were the drinks dreamed up by Secret Summer’s Mixology team, featuring, among many others, Peruvian Rum, Herradura Tequila, and French Ginger Liqueur.
In addition to the social and environmental benefits, Secret Summer Aquarius also played their philanthropic part by donating a portion of their proceed to the Billion Oyster Project, a charity dedicated to restoring the ecological balance of New York Harbor.
For more information about Secret Summer and their events, check out http://www.secretsummernyc.com/aquarius
Special thanks to @ejkvita for the photos!
New York Times Travel Show
The 15th anniversary for North America’s largest travel show was held on January 26 - 28, 2018 at Jacob K. Javits Center, NYC.
Exhibitors representing 170 countries participated in the 2018 Show. The Show floor is separated into 18 Pavilions and include: Adventure, Africa, Asia, Australia/South Pacific, Canada, Caribbean, Cruise, Europe, Family, Global, Latin America, Mexico, River Cruises, Sponsors,Taste of the world, Travel Products, LGBTQ and the USA.
It offered opportunity to memorize special moment to take a photo with people dressed in costumes utilizing the characteristics of each country made their booth more valuable.
South Korea, who will host the 2018 Winter Olympics, presented the mascots of the Pyeongchang Olympic.
Exhibitors boasted the diverse charm of their country by cooking their traditional foods for guests to taste. Patrons enjoyed not only drinks and light bites, but also a vivacious atmosphere.
Travel professionals had the opportunity to attend these exclusive seminars to share their precious knowledge. Experience for developing travel knowledge by attending their top-notch seminar in intense attention was extremely fascinating and compelling.
For more information click here
#DRinNYC
Looking for the perfect winter getaway? I’ll let you in on a secret (pun intended): it’s the Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa in the Dominican Republic.
The resort, which is located on the eastern tip of the island, boasts ocean views, a full service salon, and eight elegant restaurants reserved exclusively for guests. In addition to their top tier accomodations, the resort offers a multitude of activities for guests to partake in, including beach volleyball, aerobics, dance lessons, snorkeling, sailing, and even Spanish classes.
At night, guests have the option of staying in or watching a movie on the beach, listening to live music or seeing a show at the indoor theatre. The resort also hosts themed party nights for those who need a break from relaxing. What more could you want?
To demonstrate the quality of their hospitality, Secrets Cap Cana Resort and Spa, along with the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism, hosted a “Day in the Dominican Republic” at the Royalton Park Avenue Rooftop in NYC.
True to their word as a first class spa resort, the event featured a spray tanning booth and manicure stations, along with Caribbean inspired bites and refreshing passionfruit cocktails. Many guests also took fun pictures with the preset photobooth, which proudly displayed the hashtag #DRinNYC. All these elements made the Royalton Rooftop the perfect first taste of what life could be like...down in the DR.
So if you’re hoping to get out of shoveling the next time we get hit with a blizzard, check out the Secrets Cap Cana Resort…. the Dominican Republic’s best kept secret.
Photos courtesy of #DRinNYC
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!