Taste of the Nation NYC 2018
Food events are common nowadays, but on April 18th, one of the most anticipated annual food events brought all the foodies to Brooklyn Expo Center in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Each Spring and Summer, the country’s hottest chefs, sommeliers and mixologists join together to donate their time, talent and passion, with one goal in mind: ending childhood hunger in America by supporting Taste of the Nation for No Kid Hungry presented by Citi and Sysco.
Here in New York, 1 in 5 kids struggle with hunger. Only 47% of kids who eat free/reduced price school lunch also eat school breakfast, and only 31% of kids who eat free/reduced price school also eat summer meals. That being said, No Kid Hungry have made huge strides in New York City. Working with the Mayor's Office, the department of Education, community leaders, teachers, and corporate partners to overcome barriers, No Kid Hungry has helped schools modernize the way they serve breakfast. This April, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a state budget that includes a requirement for all "high needs" public schools - those with 70% and higher free and reduced-price student population - to offer Breakfast After the Bell. Over the next few years, this bill will impact tens of thousands of kids at risk of hunger across New York State.
Widely considered a wonderful celebration that brings entire communities together to enjoy the best of what your city has to offer in food, drinks and fellowship. With nearly 40 events in 20 cities across the nation, guests of Taste of the Nation gets to sip and sample gourmet creations from each city’s premier culinary talent and participate in unique food, travel and lifestyle auctions – all while supporting a good cause.
In addition to hosting wonderful food events, Taste of the Nation also brings together top talents in the music industry to perform on its special event stages. This year’s NYC event was definitely no different, with a special performance by the rock hitmakers, X Ambassadors. X Ambassadors, provided a live soundtrack featuring some of their biggest hits - Renegade and Unsteady, to an evening of unforgettable gastronomic creations.
This year’s celebration featured delectable dishes from American Cut, Baar Baar, Bessou, BKLN Larder, Blue Smoke, Claro, Colonie, CUT, Cuzin’s Duzin, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, Department of Education, DoughNation, EMMY Squared, Fausto, Ferris, Glaze Donuts, High Street on Hudson, Kung Fu Tea, La Newyorkina, Little Tong Noodle Shop, Mokbar , Pain D’Avignon, Restaurant Norman, Samesa, Shuka, Sunday in Brooklyn, Talde , Temple Court, The Doughnut Project, Underwest Donuts, Vic’s, and Walter’s Hot Dogs
Special drinks to wash down all delicious bites were hand-crafted cocktails mixed by bartenders from BlackTail, Las’ Lap, Leyenda, Llama Inn, La Contenta, LOVERBOY, Porchlight, Rockey’s, Rum House, Sauvage, and Ward III
Guest were also able to enjoy the free-flowing Rosé Garden, a Donut Derby, and interactive photo booth fun; a phenomenal evening, all for a great cause!
Photos courtesy of Taste of the Nation
Tribeca Film Festival - Cargo
The April 19th premier of Netflix’s Cargo at the 2018 Tribeca Film Festival caused a great stir of excitement among filmmakers, stars, and moviegoers alike. This film, produced by Samantha Jennings and Kristina Ceyton of Causeway Films, follows the story of a loving father who is infected by a violent disease in rural Australia. Amidst post apocalyptic mayhem, he struggles to find a safe home for his child.
Cargo stars - Martin Freeman, Anthony Hayes, Susie Porter, Caren Pistorius, Kris McQuade, Natasha Wanganeen and David Gulpilil showed up and showed out at the premiere. I had the pleasure of discussing the film with Martin Freeman on the red carpet for premier night.
Cargo, which was originally a short directed by Yolanda Ramke and Ben Howling, was sent to Martin alongside the screenplay for the 2018 film. While this film details the hardships that a father must withstand when faced with protecting his child, Martin spoke about why Cargo truly is a movie for everyone.
Martin, who has a daughter of his own, explained that “being a parent does feed into [the storyline], but you don’t need massive amounts of imagination” to understand the extent of what a parent is willing to do for their child. He explained, “Even if I wasn’t a parent, [the story] still would have spoken to me . . . but certainly you are very aware as a parent all the time of the sacrifices that you are prepared to make and the things you are prepared to do to keep your children safe, so I love the fact that this character in this film goes the whole way as far as it could go.”
Youth America Grand Prix 2018
Photo Credit: Presley Ann for PMC and Annie Watt Agency
World's largest student ballet scholarship audition - YOUTH AMERICA GRAND PRIX (YAGP) - returned to the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center on Thursday, April 19th for its magnificent gala. The week of ballet festivities concluded with the critically-acclaimed "Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow" in the heart of Lincoln Center.
Photo Credit: Presley Ann for PMC and Annie Watt Agency
The annually sold-out YAGP Gala featured talented young finalists of YAGP 2018 Season onstage alongside international ballet stars. NBC's Hoda Kotb, began the program by welcoming the guests to this year's performances featuring finalists from the competition alongside international ballet stars including Dutch National Ballet principal Sasha Mukhamedov, American Ballet Theatre's Isabella Boylston and Daniil Simkin, and New York City Ballet principal Daniel Ulbricht, among others.
Photo Credit: Presley Ann for PMC and Annie Watt Agency
The program also includes Tres Hombres, originally premiered in March 2018 at YAGP's partner Gala de Danza in Los Cabos, and features New York City Ballet Principal Dancer Daniel Ulbricht, multi-award-winning ballroom champion Denys Drozdyuk and So You Think You Can Dance Season 14 winner and YAGP Alum Lex Ishimoto.
Photo Credit: Presley Ann for PMC and Annie Watt Agency
This year's Gala featured several remarkable musicians, including young piano protege Rosalia Vlaeva Malik, clarinetist Weixion Wang, world-renowned pianist Jorge Viladoms, award-winning pianist Vassily Primakov, electric violinist Sarah Charness, and drummer Caleb Spaulding. Artist and illustrator Hilary Knight, best known for co-creating the 'Eloise' books has created original illustrations that was projected on stage during the Gala performance.
Photo Credit: Presley Ann for PMC and Annie Watt Agency
Following the performances continued on to the Gala Dinner chaired by Amy Astley, Ashley Olsen, Mary Kate Olsen, Colby Mugrabi, Candice Jordan Miller, Marcella Guarino Hymowitz and Lesley Thompson Vecsler in the promenade of the David H. Koch Theater. During the Gala Dinner, the original Hillary Knight drawings was auctioned off to benefit YAGP's educational efforts.
About YAGP
YAGP is the world’s largest and one of the most prestigious international ballet competitions, as well as a New York-based 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization. The mission of YAGP is to provide a global network of dance organization that provides scholarship opportunities and master classes for young dancers’ ages 9 to 19 around the world. The YAGP also holds annual competitions in multiple international and national venues that continues for nearly a full year. Each season, selected students from these competitions are invited to New York City to participate in the week-long finals. These promising dancers will receive in-depth mentoring and greater scholarship, professional, and performance opportunities. In less than twenty years YAGP has become an institution – not only for the esteem of its awards, but for the exposure it provides to young dancers to be seen by, and to make an impression on, representatives of ballet schools and companies from across the globe. For more information and how to donate to YAGP, click here.
Photos courtesy of Annie Watt Agency and Presley Ann for Patrick McMullan
Tribeca Film Festival Opening Gala
The 2018 Tribeca Film Festival, kicked off in a big way with the always festive Opening Night Gala. The place to be this evening was Beacon Theater, where A-listers like Robert De Niro, Billy Crystal, Tina Fey, and many more packed the historic theater. The opening night transported the guests back to the 1970s with the premiere of Love, Gilda, a film that explores the world of celebrated Emmy® and Grammy® award-winning comedian Gilda Radner who became a cultural icon the moment audiences first laughed with her on Saturday Night Live’s debut episode. Love, Gilda, presented by CNN Films, is directed and produced by Lisa D’Apolito. It weaves together audiotapes, rare home movies, diary entries, and interviews with her friends and those inspired by her.
Tina Fey, introduced the film to a sold out audience and got emotional speaking about Gilda’s legacy and her influence on female comedians. Following the premiere, the Festival opening continued at Tavern on the Green.
The festival officially kicks off tomorrow, for tickets and events please visit: https://www.tribecafilm.com/
EL Education 25th Gala
On April 10th, 2018, EL Education, a leading K-12 nonprofit that is transforming schools in diverse communities across the country, hosted its 25th Anniversary Gala at the landmarked 583 Park Avenue in New York City.
Alex Tom James
EL Education (formerly Expeditionary Learning) was launched 25 years ago when a group of educators from the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Outward-Bound USA won the New American Schools national competition for school designs that “break the mold.” Today, the organization partners with hundreds of public schools across 35 states, reaching more than a million students across America, to help them succeed as engaged students and active citizens. EL Education's Network of Schools generates remarkable outcomes, with 100% college acceptance rate as the standard.
The event started with a cocktail hour in the lower level of the iconic venue. Guests enjoyed an exquisite open bar and savory hor d'oeuvres, such as lamb chops and pigs in a blanket. After mix and mingling, patrons were invited upstairs to the grand ball room for the start of the program and dinner.
Student Hosts - Ameerah Rollins and Elena Fulton
The pride of the program’s success – the students, were on full display. The event was hosted by EL Education graduates Elena Fulton and Ameerah Rollins. The two young ladies were natural on stage - keeping their points short and precise, while hitting all the key notes. Four extraordinary 12th grade students from WHEELS (Washington Heights Expeditionary Learning School in New York) also took center stage and presented their stories on how EL changed their lives for the better. “We are EL,” was the central message in all their stories, expressing appreciation for the program that allowed them to be their best selves and lift their peers and communities, ensuring success for all.
Greg Farrell (second) and Mr. Hartl (far right)
This year, the Gala honored its Founding President Greg Farrell for his lifelong commitment to make schools more engaging, effective, and joyous. Mr. Farrell served as President and CEO of the organization from its founding until 2008, but he continues to serve on its Board of Directors. In an emotional speech, Greg thanked all the people who paved the way for the program.
Sydney Chaffee, Ameerah Rollins, Elena Fulton
The Gala program also featured remarks by National Teacher of the Year, Sydney Chaffee, a 9th grade Humanities teacher at Codman Academy Charter Public School, an EL Education school in Boston. At the heart of EL Education are their extraordinary teachers - men and women who fulfill their highest aspirations so that the students achieve more than they think is possible. EL works with teachers in all settings to build their capacity to ignite student’s motivation, persistence, and compassion so they become active contributors to building a better world and succeed in school, college, career, and life. Teachers and staff in EL schools don't just believe in the value of their approach; they verify it. Sydney echoed this message with her final words to the guests: “What our country needs right now are people who can listen with empathy, write with evidence, speak with clarity and act with conviction and love, then you believe in EL Education.”
About EL Education
For over 25 years, EL Education has been bringing to life a three-dimensional vision of student achievement that includes mastery of knowledge and skills, character, and high-quality student work. EL Education works with hundreds of public schools—both district and charter—across 35 states, serving over 200,000 students and 16,000 teachers. Rigorous impact studies by Mathematica Policy Research demonstrate that EL Education’s approach works: teachers significantly improve their craft and students achieve more, regardless of background.
Grounded in decades of in-depth work with educators, EL Education creates highly respected, widely distributed open educational resources, including: an acclaimed literacy curriculum that has been downloaded 8.7 million times and received the highest possible ratings from EdReports.org; the world’s largest collection of exemplary student projects; inspiring instructional videos with over 1.3 million views; hundreds of free online resources; and best-selling education books.
For information on EL Education or to donate, go to https://eleducation.org/join-the-movement/donate
Photos Courtesy of El Museo del Barrio
McKayla Maroney Speaks at NYSPCC Luncheon
The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (The NYSPCC) held its annual Spring Luncheon on Tuesday, April 17th, at The Pierre hotel in Manhattan. This year’s Luncheon featured an intimate conversation between Olympic Gold Medalist McKayla Maroney and Dr. Mary L. Pulido, Executive Director of The NYSPCC, in McKayla’s first public remarks since revealing her abuse by former U.S. Women’s Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.
Maroney first broke her silence via the hashtag (#MeToo) movement trending after the Harvey Weinstein scandal. In the letter posted on twitter, Maroney detailed the abuse she endured under Nasser, and passionately urged that "Our silence has given the wrong people power for too long, and its time to take our power back" Her former "fierce five" Olympics teammate, Aly Raisman showed tremendous support as she also suffered the same abuse under Nasser.
In a room of 250 guests, Maroney discussed her road to recovery, her thoughts on USA Gymnastics, Michigan State University (MSU), and the United States Olympic Committee (USOC)’s role in enabling Nassar’s abuse, and what she plans to do moving forward.
“Within the gymnastics world, there’s no question we need to rebuild from the ground up so this never happens again,” Maroney said. “I definitely see a future where athletes are safe and succeeding. My team won gold medals in spite of USA Gymnastics, MSU, and the USOC. They don’t build champions, they break them. But we’re changing that.”
“I at times question if my gymnastics career was really even worth it because of the stuff I’m dealing with now, because sometimes you’re just left in the dust,” Maroney continued.“You have to pick up the pieces of your life. That has been the hardest part for me, but it’s always three steps forward, two steps back.”
Maroney also stressed the importance of prevention and awareness via initiatives like The NYSPCC’s Safe Touches program, and asked the crowd to contact their local representatives to push for legislation that will close New York state’s private school child abuse loophole; currently, private schools are not required to immediately report child sexual abuse as public schools are mandated to do.
“We are so grateful that McKayla chose to share her story with The NYSPCC,” said Dr. Pulido, who also delivered a heartfelt speech about the need to protect children from sexual abuse. “When you hear about a horrific story in the media like the indescribable abuse from Larry Nassar, it’s easy to become discouraged and lose hope. It’s The NYSPCC’s mission to help children who have endured abuse like McKayla’s with our trauma recovery program. We hope that her remarkable bravery both in her sport and in her personal life inspires others to join the fight to end child abuse.”
“McKayla’s remarks were inspiring,” added Karl Wellner, President of the Board of The NYSPCC. “Despite the fact that she is still healing from years of abuse, she showed up today to remind us why the work The NYSPCC does is so important. Programs like Safe Touches, our child sexual abuse prevention program, can ensure that what happened to McKayla never happens again, and her support of The NYSPCC is invaluable.”
Nassar was accused of sexually abusing more than 260 women and girls, and was sentenced in February to an additional 40-to-125 years in prison after approximately 200 of those women and girls spoke in person or through statements in court.
About NYSPCC
The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NYSPCC) was established in 1875 as the first child protection agency in the world. The NYSPCC laid the groundwork and assumed the main role in the protective investigation, removal, and placement of abused and neglected children when no other organization was willing. Today, we 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.
Photos Courtesy of High10media
Wok Wok Southeast Asian Kitchen
Ever since I moved to New York City, I’ve tried to find the perfect Central Perk esque hangout spot. Someplace cozy and clean, with great coffee and comfy couches...the perfect place for chill catch ups with friends.
Well, that was then, and this is now. Coffee shops are out, and Chinatown is in. That’s right, my days of scouring the East Village and battling hipsters for seats are over. As of last Friday, my new go-to hangout is Wok Wok Southeast Asian Kitchen (@Wokwokny), a fusion restaurant specializing in Malaysian and Thai cuisine.
At first, it’s easy to dismiss Wok Wok as a generic hole in the wall -- it’s easy to miss, located in the basement area of a nondescript building at the far end of Mott Street. But the path down the narrow stairs reveals something more: a clean, minimalist space, accented with a open pantry that gives the area a slight shophouse vibe. It’s an eclectic mix, but it works almost as well as the food, which, as it should be, is the absolute highlight of the Wok Wok experience.
My friend and I started off our meal with the Creamy Thai Iced Tea -- a staple at any Southeast Asian restaurant. Served in mason jars, the drinks were immediately to our liking -- just the right amount of sweetness, and Instagram worthy to boot.
We followed our drinks with a round of appetizers. As recommended, we dug into a variety of street snacks: Roti Cheese, Roti Rendang, Grilled Satay Chicken, Popcorn Chicken, and Fried Potstickers. While the staples were top notch, the Roti dishes especially stood out: golden, layered, and crisp, they were the perfect accompaniment to a spicy chicken and potato curry.
For my main, I ordered the Malay Kam Heung Shrimp, which was served in the Chef’s signature 18 spice house blend, while my friend opted for Malaysian Curry Chicken with Potato Over Rice. Both of us exclaimed over our respective dishes: my most repeated phrase that night was “it’s so soft!” -- in reference to the fall apart, melt in your mouth shrimp I was served, and even as someone who is notorious for avoiding chicken served on the bone (I’m definitely a breast over wing type), I found myself pulling pieces of chicken out of the curry and eating them straight up. Yes, it was that flavorful.
While there are various dessert options at Wok Wok, my friend and I finished our meal with a dish from the appetizer menu: fried buns served with condensed milk. Known as fried mantou, the dish is almost the perfect metaphor for Wok Wok as a whole: simple, yet satisfying.
So next time you’re down in Chinatown, stop in at this hidden gem and try a few or even all of their dishes. With such a huge, diverse menu and great portions, there’ll definitely be something here for even the pickiest of your crew.
The restaurant is located in the heart of chinatown: 11 Mott St, New York, NY 10013
Special thanks to Roy and Marissa
Parkinson's Foundation Celebrate Spring
The Parkinson’s Foundation hosted its 11th Annual Celebrate Spring New York event on Wednesday, April 11 at Lavo, New York City. More than 400 New Yorkers gathered at the famed night club for a night of partying and charity. It was truly an inspirational evening where family and friends came together, raising an outstanding $200,000, to bring awareness for a disease that affects the entire community and not just the afflicted person. Proceeds from the evening will support the foundation’s research programs.
George Oliphant, Katherine Kennedy, Torri Leeds, Brooke Boyd, and Penn Egbert
Celebrate Spring New York has become a hot ticket ever since it was conceived in 2008 by G. Pennington Egbert III, Missy Egbert Sheehan and Georgina B. Schaeffer. The trio started the Young New Yorkers for the Fight Against Parkinson’s committee to do exactly what the name of the group implies. Inspired by their fathers, who have lived with the condition, their goal is to help fund scientific research to find cure, as well as engage the next generation of philanthropists. Each year, the event brings out countless young supporters into the fold to help fund the work of future leaders in Parkinson’s research and care.
Rachel Moskowitz, Gregg Moskowitz, Scott Steinman and Leah Steinman
The extraordinary evening was a delectable affair, starting with rounds of unique cocktails and savory hors d'oeuvres, including tuna tartar, pizza margherita, and parmesan chicken. Music by DJ Brenda Black filled the room, where guests showed off their fancy footwork. An exciting live auction with prizes including many romantic getaways, a private stay at Tuxedo Park, and an eighteen-hole golf extravaganza at Fishers Island.
Kim Wolfberg and Adam Wolfberg
Parkinson’s disease, a disorder of the central nervous system that affects movement and often includes tremors and impaired balance, affects up to 1 million people in the U.S. Doctors diagnose as many as 60,000 new cases each year. The Parkinson’s Foundation is working toward a world without Parkinson’s disease and improving the lives of people with Parkinson’s and their families through improved treatments, support and the best care.
Penn Egbert, Missy Egbert Sheehan, and Jonathan Romero
Throughout the years, Celebrate Spring New York has raised more than one million dollars for Parkinson’s Disease Foundation. The dream of being Parkinson’s disease free is getting closer every day.
To donate or become a volunteer for the Parkinson’s Foundation, please visit www.pdf.org/csny
Photo Credit: Sylvain Gaboury/PMC via Getty Images
About the Parkinson’s Foundation
The Parkinson’s Foundation makes life better for people with Parkinson’s disease by improving care and advancing research toward a cure. In everything we do, we build on the energy, experience and passion of our global Parkinson’s community. For more information, visit www.parkinson.org or call (800) 4PD-INFO (473-4636).
About Parkinson’s Disease
Affecting an estimated one million Americans and 10 million worldwide, Parkinson’s disease is the second-most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s and is the 14th-leading cause of death in the United States. It is associated with a progressive loss of motor control (e.g., shaking or tremor at rest and lack of facial expression), as well as non-motor symptoms (e.g., depression and anxiety). There is no cure for Parkinson’s and 60,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States alone.
The Bloody Mary Festival
On Sunday, April 8th, New Yorkers from all five boroughs gathered together in the the heart of Brooklyn to enjoy good company and even better Bloody Marys at The Bloody Mary Festival - NYC, also known as the “Sunday Funday Brunch Party of the year.”
The festival, which hosts dozens of New York restaurants and bars, is a chance for mixologists of all levels to serve guests their best Bloody Mary concoctions in order to determine whose brunch cocktail reigns supreme.Guests of the festival were able to enjoy a few hours of live music, tasty food, and most importantly, Bloody Marys of all kinds. The event took place at Grand Prospect Hall, a breathtaking Victorian banquet hall in Park Slope, Brooklyn. Guests were also able to use an outside seating area of the hall to enjoy the spring sunshine.
Additionally, Barefoot Wine & Bubbly products as well as beer on tap were offered to those who steered away from the Bloody Mary route. Local vendors sold their food and drink products (one memorable item being bacon jam in a jar - which was delicious) and enjoyed telling guests about them. After trying all of the different craft Bloody Marys, guests were able to vote on their favorite stations with poker chips.
Overall, everyone had a fantastic time, and the Bloody Mary Festival undoubtedly has left its bloody mark on New York. From spicy to sweet to citrusy to robust, this festival has proven that there is no right or wrong way to make an incredible Bloody.
Photos courtesy of Bloody Mary Festival
Free Arts NYC 19th Annual Art Auction
On Thursday Night, April 12, Free Arts NYC honored legendary Conceptual Artist Lawrence Weiner at the Free Arts NYC Annual Art Auction. A longtime collaborator and supporter of Free Arts NYC, native New Yorker Lawrence Weiner is widely considered to be one of the most central figures of Conceptual Art, and is among the trailblazers of the 1960s to pursue inquiries into language as sculpture.
The special event took place at Ukrainian Institute of America—housed in the historic Harry F. Sinclair mansion—guests were treated to an exhibition of aspiring teenage artists from Free Arts NYC’s Creative Career Exploration, Portfolio Mentorship, and Museum & Studio Visit Programs. On March 4th, this group of art lovers took part in a very special workshop led by Lawrence Weiner in his West Village studio. Given the prompt “Not why I am born but now that I am born what do I do?”, the young artists created their own Lawrence Weiner-inspired text art, paired with personal ampersand designs symbolizing individuality. The project is a response to Lawrence's contribution to Free Arts NYC's A to Z Project—an original alphabet created through the collaboration of 45 artists, illustrators, and designers—for which Lawrence designed an ampersand.
Guests were then greeted by Lawrence Weiner’s text piece, “Learn to Read Art” as they ascended a grand staircase adorned with hanging floral gardens. While browsing works of art to bid on by such notable artists as Taryn Simon, Glenn Ligon, Robert Longo, Rob Pruitt, Charline von Heyl, Richard Serra, and Agathe Snow—all generously installed by sponsor Crozier Fine Arts—guests were treated to a live performance by the renowned experimental jazz ensemble, Onyx Collective. As guests sip Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut champagne and cocktails from The Sexton Single Malt Speakeasy, they discussed the artistic inspirations and practices of fellow attendees like Chloe Wise, Sheree Hovsepian, and Eddie Martinez, who all generously donated artwork to the Free Arts NYC auction, which has been live on Artsy since March 29th.
The evening was presented by acclaimed Japanese fashion label Sacai, whose Spring Summer 2018 collection incorporates Lawrence Weiner's iconic text art. On the occasion, Sacai Founder and Head Designer Chitose Abe dresssed such guests as CNN Anchor Kate Bouldan—who was the evening’s MC—actress, DJ, and style icon Mia Moretti, Internet sensation Pari Ehsan, and auction artist Zoë Buckman, among others. Throughout the cocktail hour, guests had the opportunity to see the innovative collection up close while listening to a playlist curated by Mia Moretti, and stepping away to ornament themselves with coveted Lawrence Weiner temporary tattoos.
At 8:30pm, dinner guests entered a dining room enveloped with Lawrence Weiner’s iconic wall pieces, sitting down to a meal presented by Sacai, set on top of Lawrence Weiner x Sacaitablescapes. The meal was followed by a live auction led by art advisor Aileen Agopian, accompanied by Master of Ceremonies Kate Bouldan, with special words by Free Arts Teens about how Lawrence Weiner has impacted their lives. Dinner guests took home gift bags filled with Lawrence Weiner coffee table books published by Phaidon, and Lawrence Weiner x Sacai fabric napkins.
All proceeds from the evening benefit Free Arts NYC’s educational arts mentoring programs for underserved youth and families.
Images by BFA: Mike Vitelli/BFA and Max Lakner/BFA
Rock'n'Roll at SUSHI ROXX
If you’re looking for a restaurant experience unlike any other, turn to Sushi Roxx. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this Japanese restaurant offers both delicious food and a live dance show, performed by none other than the waiters and waitresses, who are also talented singers and dancers. But this isn't the Stardust Diner. Sushi Roxx is a little more selective with their musical choices: their show “We Will Roxx You” only features music from world famous rock artists such as Aerosmith, AC/DC, Lenny Kravitz, and Journey.
Although the restaurant has been open for a few years, it has recently launched a series of new menu items in order to go along with the musical dining experience. The venue, which exudes romantic Asiatic influences, offers delicious specialty cocktails named after Marvel and DC superheroes, such as the Green Lantern (Jameson, blue curacao, peach, lemon), the Skywalker (Avion Silver, honeydew, agave, lime, jalapeno, basil), and the Black Panther (Aviation, Creme De Cassis, blackberry, lime), as well as additional food items, such as sushi pizzas and rolls with combinations varying from spicy tuna to lobster. There is something for everyone to enjoy while singing along to some of the most popular throwback songs of the 20th Century.
For those craving something sweet to finish off the night, fun desserts, such as Nutella S’mores (nutella, marshmallow, graham cracker), Berries and Creme (seasonal berries, lemon, schlag), and Death by Birthday Cake (chocolate cake, whipped cream, chocolate fudge, vanilla cream) are just a few choices of sweets available for anyone interested in getting a sugar rush after a gleeful night.
If you’re up for some old school music with a fun twist and delicious food, or would like to spice things up by visiting a new restaurant in the midst of New York City, make sure to reserve a table at Sushi Roxx by visiting http://sushiroxxnyc.com/, and check out the menu by clicking here.
Photos courtesy of SUSHI ROXX
Sneak Preview of Borrachito at The Garret East
On Wednesday night, one of New York City’s most reputable cocktail bars, The Garret, located in the Lower East Side, turned into a finger-licking taco concept. As guests walked in, they were welcomed to a drink of their choice at the bar, where they had a chance to strike up a conversation with a compelling stranger. And when the evening went well, invitees continued their night by walking further into a more romantic setup dubbed, “Borrachito.”
Borrachito, which is located in the back area, was once a speakeasy restaurant entitled, “Dinnertable,” turned itself into an intimate and date-appropriate bar and taco spot, filled with lots of delicious tacos to accompany a wide array of boozy cocktails and luscious wines.
Borrachito brings Mexican street food inspired by family recipes to the comfort of a New York City bar. Executive Chef Yuval Ochoa thrills the crowd with tacos filled with pork, steak, and fish, as well as delightfully unexpected fillings, such as burrata. Each taco is a masterpiece of its own: the “Pork Bomb” taco includes roasted pork belly, confit pork shoulder and deep fried pork skin, andpico de gallo and pickled onions; the “Baja Fish” taco is a refreshing creation comprised of fried seabass, grilled pineapple salsa, and guajillo majo. Not feeling tacos but still want a flavor of Mexico? Try “Del Every Dia” soup, or ceviche and guacamole appetizers. And for those with a sweet tooth, Borrachito does not disappoint. There is a choice of paletas (ice pops) with flavors such as pineapple mezcal and strawberry cilantro, and duros (sweet chips) covered in sugar, cinnamon, and served with a side of corn ice cream.
To accompany the flavorful feast, grab one of the delicious cocktails from The Garret’s bar. From “Detroit Dancehall” to “Cheap Furniture,” your night is guaranteed to be a blast. With mouthwatering food and equally delicious drinks, what else could one wish for? In the age of Instagram, it is an aesthetically-pleasing venue, which Borrachito and The Garret most definitely offer.
Looking to experience street style tacos but are on a date, or would just like to enjoy flavors of Mexico with a delicious drink in another hand? Borrachito is for you. It doesn’t have to be #TacoTuesday for you to visit this cozy and flavorful location this weekend by going to 206 Avenue A, NY, NY 10009, located in the back of The Garret East.
Photo credit @fohnyc
Axel Vervoordt at New York Benefit
"Axel Vervoordt is a non-conformist, which is dear to my heart. He’s a modernist who embraces every period. He does not use his rooms for modern furniture, but for the best furnishings in the world, and, notably, the best art.” Thus declared Jack Lenor Larsen on Wednesday night when LongHouse Reserve honored Axel at the Hearst Tower.
Matko Tomicic, executive director of LongHouse, welcomed guests and introduced Diane Benson, president of the Board who said, “We are here tonight honoring a man who defies being defined by a single word. So we are right in presenting his award by a woman who also challenges conventions and titles, conceptual artist Kimsooja,” who in turn said, “It is a great honor and pleasure for me to celebrate Axel Vervoordt and his legacy tonight, on the occasion of the prestigious LongHouse Award." The artist continued, "The honor also goes to LongHouse and its mission to reflect world culture and inspire creative talent."
In accepting his award, designed by Marc Leuthold, Axel gallantly offered, “Thank you all for coming. I don’t know if I deserve it, but I always do my best,” then delivered a fascinating presentation on design and his theories of art, light, and space. A smaller group of just 50 retired afterwards to Adelaide de Menil's remarkable Central Park South duplex for dinner, where each guest was presented with a signed copy of Axel’s newest book, Stories and Reflections, which is not yet available in the US.
Among the guests were Sandy and Steve Perlbinder, Adelaide de Menil, Martha Stewart, Sherri Shultz, Sherri Donghia, Julie Jensen, Kay Hall, Newell Turner, Mark and Elizabeth Levine, Nina Gillman, Suzy Slesin and Michael Steinberg, Chris Mead and Zoe Hoare, Harvey and Audrey Feuerstein, Catherine and Nathan Bruckner, Judi Roaman, Nick and Christina Martin, Lindsay and Fitzhugh Caleo, Kang Chang, Dianne Benson, Jack Lenor Larsen.
LongHouse is a 16-acre reserve and sculpture garden located in East Hampton, NY, featuring works from Buckminster Fuller, Yoko Ono and William de Kooning to name only a few. Founded by Jack Lenor Larsen, it exemplifies curated living with art in all forms. It’s collections, gardens, sculpture and programs reflect diverse world cultures and inspire a creative life.
Photos Courtesy of Patrick McMullan
Flamenco Night at Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola
If you are looking for a place to relax to smooth sounds of jazz in the midst of a busy city, you might want to turn to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola. Located at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola hosts weekly jazz events featuring a variety of talented musicians, along with the opportunity to wine and dine, for students, members, and fans of jazz.
On Friday, March 23, 2018, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola turned into a destination for anyone who wished to hear the collision of the sounds of jazz and flamenco without traveling to the origin of flamenco--Spain. The evening, accompanied by delicious cocktails and a wine carte, as well as a range of mouthwatering appetizers, such as a gooey mac-n-cheese and roasted brussel sprouts with bits of bacon, introduced the New York crowd to four exceptional artists: DORANTES, Adam Ben Ezra, Chano Domínguez, and a guest musician, Tim Ries.
The quartet created an energetic and picante melange of jazz, flamenco, classical, and Latin melodies in order to bring elements of surprise and curiosity into the audience. With nighttime lights of Columbus Circle and Central Park in the background, the night seemed to take unexpected yet pleasant turns with every note of music.
If you are looking to conclude a tiresome week on an upbeat note, or find a new romantic private spot in the city for a successful date night, Jazz at Lincoln Center is the place to do all of the above and more. Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola at Jazz at Lincoln Center holds weekly, two evening sessions: one at 7:30 pm, and another at 9:30pm, as well as a late night session at 11:15pm. There is always time to enjoy jazz for every New Yorker.
Jazz at Lincoln Center is also the destination for students who are looking to indulge in the sounds of jazz by themselves or with a friend, since the tickets are only priced at $20 for most of the sessions. As for the post-studies crowd, have no fear as the jazz destination allows to absorb most of the musical nights starting at $35.
Whether you're a fan of jazz or just looking for a more unique cultural experience, Jazz at Lincoln Center has it all. If you are interested in paying a visit or two to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola in Jazz at Lincoln Center, visit http://www.jazz.org/dizzys/ for more information.
Affordable Art Fair
The price-conscious art fair returned to NYC one again. Art ranged from original paintings, drawings, photographs and sculptures from 67 local, national and international galleries. With price tags ranging from $100 to $10,000. AAF is an experience that you can really only find in NYC. There is a ton of talent and you can spend as little as 30 minutes or as long as hours walking through the exhibit. You don't have to purchase anything and aren't heckled to do so.
BELLA Cover featuring Jillian Michaels
On Thursday, March 22, 2018, Jillian Michaels hosted BELLA’s influencer cover launch party at Mr. Jones in SoHo. Guests checked out the latest cover while sipping on 1907 Water and prosecco provided by Prosecco DOC.
Genesis Fertility was on hand talking to women about such reproductive treatments at egg freezing. Other sponsors included wereUniversity Pain Management Center and Lenox Hill Hospital.
Jillian, known for her badass approach to transforming lives on TV shows like The Biggest Loser and Sweat Inc., has made a name for herself as America's toughest trainer. When Jillian was 12 years old, she was 5'2 and weighed 175 pounds. After verbal torment by her classmates, she decided to change for the better and now at 36, and with abs to kill, she has become one of America's most famous fitness trainers.
Guests included Courtenay Hall (BELLA Editor-in-Chief), Daniel Hall (BELLA Chief Brand Strategist), Doug Wilson (TLC’s Trading Spaces), Monte Bezell (NBC’s “The Blacklist”), Joe “Monk”Pardavila (95.5 WPLJ), Donald Paul (FX’s “Atlanta”), Carter Redwood(actor, “The Long Road Home” & NBC’s “Rise”), Steve Stranulis (Actor/Director “Clinton Road”), Jake Allyn (BET’s “The Quad”), Thalia Almodovar (VH1’s “Beauty Bar”), Heide Lindgren (model), Carey Murphy (model), Dani Seitz (model), Damaris Lewis (model), Courtney Davis (comedian), Olga Namer (comedian), Dr. Tabasum Mir (Bravo’s “The Singles Project”), Any Peeke (TV Host), Valerie Greenberg (lifestyle expert).
Photos Courtesy of Steve White
Sneak Preview of Sugar Momma
On a chilly Tuesday night, a cafe “Hole in the Wall” turned into a mysterious bar and restaurant dubbed, “Sugar Momma.” Located in the heart of the Financial District, the location serves as a bright and cozy coffee spot during the hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, but turns into a playful and cheeky relaxation zone from the hours of 6:00 pm until midnight.
The dining and cocktail location provides a large variety of delicious food on its menu designed by the Executive Chef Brent Hudson (@hashtaghudson). The menu items range from hot and cold appetizers such as Crispy Pork (soy caramel, sour apple, picked herbs & cashews), Shrimp and Crab Crackers (remoulade and avocado puree), and East Coast Oysters and Burrata with shaved melon and prosciutto. After a spread of starters, Sugar Momma serves up a feast of equally mouthwatering entree items, such as their signature Truffle Beef and ‘Shroom’ Burger (crispy bacon, caramelized onions, house pickles and special sauce), Grass-Fed Wagyu Rib Eye (XO mushroom butter, broccolini and garlic chives), Satay Curry Chicken and the ability to Roll Your Own Brisket Tacos.
To accompany the mind-blowing food journey, Sugar Momma offers 11 signature cocktails, all created by lead mixologist, Ryan Byrnes. Some of the cocktails include sweet and bitter combinations, such as The Gatsby (gin, pama, lemon, prosecco), Back in Fashion (bourban, honey, bitters & orange), and Momma’s Martini (vanilla vodka, passoa, passion fruit puree & prosecco), along with some spicier choices, such as Spicy Time Margarita (tequila, combier orange, lime, simple syrup & jalapeno). However, if you would like to withhold the cocktails and enjoy the meal with a glass of chilled-rose or some quality beer, Sugar Momma presents wines by the glass and bottle in addition to Brooklyn Lager and an Oyster Bay IPA.
Sugar Momma is sure worth a visit. With tracks straight from 90s hip hop to candles and neon signs, Sugar Momma has it all. Relaxing ambiance with scrumptious food, rich drinks, and great company is all you really need to unwind after a stressful day at work and jump straight into a commitment-free weekend.
Pay a visit to Sugar Momma to jump start your weekend: 15 Cliff Street, New York, NY 10038
Photos courtesy of Sugar Momma
Laila Biali at Birdland Jazz Club
On Thursday night, Laila Biali took the stage at the Birdland Jazz Club located on West 44th Street, right in the heart of New York City-Times Square. The Canadian singer and pianist performed several songs from her self-titled album, "Laila Biali", ranging from nostalgic references to the days of touring with other performers through North America, to healing broken hearts with self-love and a new, nurturing relationship with her now-husband.
The songs performed by the jazz pianist certainly matched the atmosphere, invoking a sense of the mystique, while also mixing it up with playful and cozy melodies. Surrounded by candlelight, delicious food and great company, the audience enjoyed Biali’s performance, since it was just as marvelous as one would expect.
Mixing jazz and pop, along with a full-band show, Biali froze the time in the middle of the biggest and busiest cities in the world. A lovely night to remember with music that certainly filled the soul.
Apologies from Men: Live Concert and Album Release
Lauren Maul dances to "Kevin Spacey's Apology: The REMIX"
New York based creator of comedy, music, and film Lauren Maul (Amazon Reviews: The Musical!) announced the release of her album Apologies from Men. The album is available for purchase as of March 9th, 2018, and she debuted the songs live at a concert at The People’s Improv Theater on that same date. The album is released by her own production company, MaulFace, and is available for purchase as an audio album on iTunes, Amazon Digital Music, Google Play Music, and more. Maul has pledged to donate 100% of the sales revenue from the album to RAINN, the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. A free visual album is available online through Vimeo and apologiesfrommen.com. The album is available for sale on Google Play here:
https://play.google.com/store/music/album/L_Maul_Apologies_from_Men?id=Brhlazfpaec66jd56t4wm323gee
Tahlia Robinson, Alyson Greenfield, Jen Kwok, Alexius Smith, and Kate Weber sing "I Do Not Believe by Charlie Rose"
In Apologies from Men: The Album, Maul has taken infamous male apology statements and created animated videos set to original music. The album features the apologies of Louis CK, Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, Matt Lauer, Mario Batali, Russell Simmons, Dustin Hoffman, Charlie Rose, and an instrumental song from the men who have been accused but have yet to apologize. By carefully constructing the songs around the actual words and tone of the “apologies”, Maul purposely highlights the flaws and ridiculousness of the statements. Each song is different, with a variation of dance tracks, piano ballads, and even a faux-Christian rock song. The album features additional singing talent from comedic musicians Alyson Greenfield, Jen Kwok, Lady Kate Weber, Alexius Smith, Chase O’Donnell, and Tahlia Robinson.
Apologies From Men Tracklisting:
1- The Louis CK Apology... Set to Music
2- Kevin Spacey's Apology: The Remix
3- Sorrow & Regret: The Matt Lauer Apology
4- Humbly Apologize by Russell Simmons
5- A Short Apology by Dustin Hoffman
6- The Culture Then by Harvey Weinstein
7- Pizza Dough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe by Mario Batali
8- I Do Not Believe by Charlie Rose
9- Instrumental by The Men Who Have Not Apologized
Lauren Maul sings "A Short Apology by Dustin Hoffman"
Lauren Maul was raised in Nebraska, studied theater at the University of San Diego, trained as an improviser in Chicago, and currently performs in New York. She was named one of the "50 Funniest People in Brooklyn" by Brooklyn Magazine in 2016. A "bit-maker" by trade, Lauren creates music, films, puppets, stand-up routines and has experience working professionally as a composer and director. She has performed at major NYC comedy venues including UCB and Carolines, Second City in Chicago and has also appeared in several festivals including Williamstown, Just for Laughs, Chicago Sketchfest, the Women in Comedy Festival, SOLOCOM, NY Fringe, Brooklyn Comedy Festival, and San Francisco Sketchfest where her show "Dudes Being Dudes Being Dudes" played to a sold-out audience. Her writing has appeared in BUST magazine, The Frisky, Splitsider, Merry Jane, and Reductress. She produces and hosts the critically acclaimed "Dudes Being Dudes Being Dudes" and "Bitchcraft!" shows in NYC and is a teacher at The Peoples Improv Theater. n 2016, Lauren created a musical web series, Amazon Reviews: The Musical!, which was named one of the best web series of the year by IndieWire. To find out more, please visit laurenmaul.org.
Photos courtesy of Shark Party Media
The Armory Show
Staged on Piers 92 & 94, The Armory Show featured presentations by over 200 leading international galleries, innovative artist commissions and dynamic public programs.