The Brooklyn Film Festival - Are You Glad I'm Here
Wednesday, May 30th. I meet with director Noor Fay at Amber, a sushi restaurant on West 70th street, to discuss her first feature film: Are You Glad I’m Here, recent winner of Best Original Score and Best Feature Narrative at the Brooklyn Film Festival. Having watched the film myself the night before, I’m excited for the chance to pick her brain: where did the idea for the film come from? What was the production process like? Noor answers my questions with ease. She tells me of her Lebanese heritage, and her screenwriter, Sam Anderson’s, studies in Arabic. We discuss the difficulties of filming on a low budget, of finding the perfect cast, and the skill required to bring the soft, specific beauty of the Lebanese countryside to the screen. I tell Noor that I expected the movie to end with her two female leads intertwined in a sexual relationship, and she laughs.
“Yeah, I guess I can see why you’d think that.”
Are You Glad I’m Here is in no way a sexual movie -- it’s refreshing, I realize, to have a drama about a female friendship where there’s no sexual undertone. There is, however, plenty of violence -- at first easy to ignore, like static background music, but then sharp and spiked -- gasps of forte after an entire composition in piano.
The movie opens on Kirsten (Tess Harrison), a young American teaching abroad in Lebanon. She’s at once identifiable as that liberal arts educated expat -- someone with a sense of higher morality who has adopted their own standards of right and wrong: stealing is acceptable, but domestic abuse? Not at all. Her character in is direct contrast to Nadine, played by Marwa Khalil. Unlike Kirsten, Nadine lives by the standards set by her society. She despises her husband, his wandering eye and his violent outbursts, but her fear of shame is greater than her desire for freedom.
Nevertheless, the two women find themselves slipping into an easy friendship. There are several scenes dedicated to the pair laughing, bonding over shared senses of humor and shared bottles of wine, seemingly ignoring the deeper troubles that plague them. This all comes to a head, however, when Nadine, in an act of self defense, strikes and kills her husband in front of a shell-shocked Kirsten.
From then on, there is a drastic shift in the tone and styling of the movie -- so much so that the second half of the film reads like a sequel to the first. Kirsten is on the verge of irrelevance -- the focus is instead on Nadine, dealing with the physical aftermath of her actions, hiding her secret from her family, and navigating how to break the death of her husband to her son.
But the lack of Kirsten is made up for with Nadine’s family. Their dynamic with her is full and beautiful -- the words Nadine exchanges with her brother are near poetic, benefiting from the pleasing sound of Arabic. It’s a relief when they are not revealed to be the tyrants we fear -- we are reassured that Nadine is now in good hands, capable of facing the future with them by her side.
It’s true that Are You Glad I’m Here has flaws -- ones that can’t be compensated for with stylish cinematography or interesting shots. Nonetheless, its ability to blend two cultures and languages into a cohesive, compelling movie, not to mention the clear passion and hard work behind it, makes the film worth a watch. But feel free to decide for yourself: check out the trailer below, or visit the film’s instagram page: @areyougladimhere.
Absolut Truth "One Night Only"
On May 31st, dozens of socialites clad in smoky eyes, lacey attire, and bold statement pieces lined up for a chance to enter The Box, one of the hottest French nightclubs in the Lower East Side. Absolut Vodka hosted the exclusive event experience in New York in celebration of its Absolut Truth campaign. Absolut Truth’s “One Night Only” event used burlesque and mixed drinks to bring back the “golden era” of New York’s nightlife
New Yorkers know to expect jaw-dropping performances when it comes to The Box, and the night was no exception. Lingerie dancers strutted across the bar and lifted onto twirling hoops, mesmerizing onlookers. As guests sipped on Absolut and enjoyed passed hors d'oeuvres, whispers ensued of who the “surprise guest” set to appear would be. A special performance by one and only celebutante Amanda Le Pore, who serenaded the cheering crowd with a one-of-a-kind performance.
Whether attendees enjoyed the show from the midst of the dance floor or seated behind velvet drapes along the balcony, they left with buzzing energy and photos worthy of writing home about.
Caliente Cab
We’re not quite California or Texas, but New York’s got it’s own share of amazing Mexican food, ranging from street fare to high end. Today’s foray into the New York food scene took us to Caliente Cab, a West Village eatery featuring a diverse selection of Mexican cuisine.
I always judge any place offering hispanic food by its salsa. There needs to be options, of course -- mild, spicy, scorching -- but definitely no fruit/salsa mashups, and nothing with a flavor verging on sweet. Caliente Cab did not disappoint. The spicy salsa I ordered was just that - hot, but not so much so that you couldn’t taste the underlying ingredients. I almost filled myself up on just the salsa and complimentary tortilla chips, but was deterred by the arrival of our appetizer, the tasting platter for two.
Be forewarned: this tasting platter is huge, and everything on it is packed with cheese, meat, and salsa. I particularly enjoyed the “El Dorado chicken quesadilla,” which can also be enjoyed as a full sized dish. My friend, on the other hand, preferred the Mexican sliders, noting that he hadn’t even known it was a thing. Also featured on this dish were flautitas and al pastor tacos, both tasty and great compliments to the heavier sliders and quesadillas.
For our main course, at the advice of our server, my friend and I ordered the Taco Tower special -- layer upon layer of tortillas, cheese, salsa, beef, guacamole, and sour cream. It’s a dish more to marvel at than munch -- to eat it, we ended up cutting into the side like a cake, pulling the “slices” onto our plates. The end result was a little messy, but delicious nonetheless. Our advice? If you get this dish, take pictures before it’s inevitable destruction.
The giant portions made it difficult to eat anymore than we did, but looking around, it’s clear that Caliente Cab, with it’s festive decor and monster sized margaritas, is designed for large groups looking for a chill, casual place to unwind.
So, whether you’re searching for authentic, inspired, and instagram worthy Mexican food, or just a great place for a group dinner, Caliente Cab is your best bet. For more information, check out their menu listed below!
The Ucross Foundation Gala
The Ucross Foundation hosted its inaugural New York Gala & Awards Dinner last night at The Appel Room at Jazz at Lincoln Center. The night was filled with performances and readings by notable award-winning artists, all Ucross alumni, including Ricky Ian Gordon (Grapes of Wrath, opera), Steven Lutvak (A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder), bestselling author Tayari Jones, author and Vanity Fair contributor Elissa Schappell, composer/pianist Dylan Mattingly, trumpeter Frank London, and singer-songwriter Kate Schutt. Special guests included Broadway stars Laura Benanti and Nancy Anderson. A collection of artwork from Ucross visual artist alumni was on display and available for purchase. The emcee was former journalist and current film and television screenwriter William "Bill" Broyles.
At the heart of the evening was the presentation of the Ucross Award for Distinguished Achievement in the Arts, which was presented to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Annie Proulx by the editor of The New Yorker, David Remnick. Proulx is widely recognized for many of her literary works, notably Brokeback Mountain, which was first published in The New Yorker in 1997. Remnick noted The New Yorker’s long history with Proulx stating, “It’s always been a privilege to publish Annie’s work in The New Yorker and it’s a privilege to take part in this ceremony tonight.”
In the early stages of her writing career, Ucross granted Proulx the solitude and inspiration to become a literary legend. She acknowledged the impact and continuing growth of the Ucross residency stating, “I have watched Ucross grow from a remote place that offered a few writers and artists shelter and solitude become a highly regarded and important resource for creative people: writers, painters, filmmakers, sculptures, all the rest. Ucross has developed real clout in the intellectual ethos of this country and beyond. What happens in this little corner of Wyoming matters to the way we all think, see and interpret the world and ultimately how we solve our problems.”
The evening began with a cocktail hour featuring a visual arts exhibit and sale by Ucross alumni. One of the paintings, by artist Pamela Talese, was presented as a gift to philanthropists Jesse and Cathy Marion, who received the Outstanding Patron of the Arts Award. All the works in the exhibit may be viewed here.
Philip Himberg, Artistic Director of the Sundance Institute Theatre Program was also honored last night with the Outstanding Creative Partnership Award for his years of collaboration with Ucross.
About Ucross Foundation
Located in northeast Wyoming in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains, Ucross Foundation fosters the creative spirit of deeply committed artists and groups by providing uninterrupted time, studio space, living accommodations, and the experience of the majestic High Plains, while serving as a good steward of its 20,000-acre ranch. Residencies are awarded to nearly one hundred artists each year. Ten artists are in residence at one time, typically a mix of four visual artists, four writers and two composers.
Since its establishment in 1981, Ucross has provided over 2,000 residencies to writers, visual artists, and composers, including such distinguished fellows as Annie Proulx, Terry Tempest Williams, Colson Whitehead, Elizabeth Gilbert, Ann Patchett, Ricky Ian Gordon, Bill Morrison, Theaster Gates, Anthony Hernandez, and recent Academy Award and Tony winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Other Ucross national partners include the Sundance Institute Theatre Program, the Herb Alpert Award in the Arts, the Pew Fellowships in the Arts, the Alliance of Artist Communities, and the PEN/Hemingway Award for Debut Fiction. The Ucross Foundation Art Gallery is a significant cultural resource for surrounding communities and beyond. For further information, visit
Photo credit: Jared Siskin/PMC via Getty Images.
The Shake and Burger Bar
Is there anything more American than the classic shake and burger? Yes, actually: souped up shakes, binge-worthy burgers, and Back to the Future playing on a hi-res tv -- all things that can be found at The Shake and Burger Bar, a new sports bar and grill in Kips Bay, Manhattan.
I admit, walking into The Shake and Burger Bar, I wasn’t sure what to expect -- hipsters wanting pics for their socials? An older, mostly male crowd catching up on the game? Who I got as dining companions, however, were a different, unexpected group: families with young children, no doubt drawn to the abundance kid friendly items featured on the menu: mozzarella sticks, sliders, and of course, milkshakes.
But the food at The Shake and Burger Bar is much more than your nostalgic childhood fare. Take the mac and cheese -- slightly soupy, and customized with either truffle oil or bacon bits, this appetizer stole the show as soon as it was placed at our table. Served in a generously sized cast iron pan and finished with a layer of bubbling cheese, I burned my tongue rushing to get a second bite after being overwhelmed by the first, and spent the rest of the course glopping forkfuls of the dish onto my own plate.
The truffle Mac & Cheese, which I cannot recommend enough, is also featured on the burger menu, as part of the Truffle Mac & Cheese Burger. I, however, went for the Left Coast Turkey Burger, served on an activated charcoal bun, while my friend gorged on the giant, cheese covered Surf N Turf. While both burgers were well made, and definitely filling, they were outshone by the sweet potato fries, which came dusted with brown sugar and served with a marshmallow dipping sauce. I am now a firm believer that this is the way all sweet potato fries should be enjoyed. Yes, the fries are sweet, but hey, if marshmallow topped sweet potato casserole can fly at Thanksgiving, marshmallow dipped sweet potato fries can work for lunch.
Nevertheless, The Shake and Burger Bar does offer regular fries and onion rings as sides to their burgers, especially if you’re saving your sweet tooth for the eatery’s biggest draw: their milkshakes, divided into either Drunk Shakes or Insane Shakes.
Be forewarned: You will not be able to finish your milkshake, particularly if you’ve been munching away at all the other goodies The Shake and Burger Bar has to offer. The Juniors Cheesecake Raspberry shake I ordered came topped with a slice of Juniors Cheesecake, whipped cream, donut holes, and graham crackers. I ended up having to take the toppings and shake to go, and it held up well on the train ride back home, where I spent the next two days alternating between gulps of the milkshake and the bites of the cheesecake.
So, who is The Shake and Burger Bar for? The answer may not be too clear from the atmosphere, but I think I’ve derived an answer from the menu: anyone that is fond of fun, flavorful food.
David Wells and The Perfect Game: 20 Year Anniversary
On May 17, 1998, David Wells, a pitcher for the Yankees, reached the climax of his 21-year major league career by defeating all 27 Minnesota Twins. The pitch, which led to a Yankees win, became a significant point in baseball history as the 15th perfect game in major league history.
20 years later, on the same day in 2018, Wells and his fellow Yankee teammates reunited at a charity event for Wells’ Perfect 33 foundation. Celebrities, who were also present at the game, gathered at Sony Hall to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the “Perfect Game.” Although the game and the pitch turned iconic and seamlessly entered baseball history, the story behind the pitch is even more fascinating.
In his 2003 autobiography titled, Perfect, I’m Not, Wells revealed to his fans that when he threw his shot, he was “half-drunk, with bloodshot eyes, monster breath, and a raging, skull-rattling hangover.” In addition, according to a recent Seth Meyer interview with Jimmy Fallon, the night before the big game, Wells and Fallon went out to an SNL after-party. The occasion led to Wells sleeping only for an hour, ending up in bed at 5:30am.
Yet, this did not stop the Yankee pitcher from practicing his throw all morning before and performing his best during the game. “I think I overdid it,” said Wells during the event. “Thank God for coffee and water. You would never think in a million years that you’re going out, hungover and throw a perfect game.” Especially because that day, the Yankee stadium gathered 49,820 spectators, hundreds of whom were children, since the main sponsor of the game was Beanie Baby.
Despite the fact that a monumental day in baseball history started off with a rough night, when asked if he would change anything about that day, Wells responded with a good-humored “nothing.” Instead, he emphasized the importance of doing your own thing, while having his fellow teammates’ support.
“I beat to my own drum sometimes,” said Wells. “I had my teammates and they had my back at all times. That’s what you have to do. You have to have each other’s backs at all times.”
About Perfect 33
This foundation stems from David's vision to have an outlet for his friends and family to help his alma mater high school, Point Loma High School in San Diego. The foundation help kids develop as athletes and help military personnel who serve us all. Your donations are tax deductible.
ReThink Food Gala
Every year, NYC sends million tons of waste to landfills, almost a third of which is solely food. When food waste degrades in landfills, it produces methane, a harmful greenhouse gas. NYC restaurants, in total, account for the largest single stream of food waste on the commercial side. They generate close to more than 650,000 tons of food waste annually. As such, the restaurant segment represents the greatest commercial opportunity to reduce the volume of New York City’s landfilled food waste. If just five percent of New York City’s largest restaurants deterred from landfill half of the food waste they generate – by reducing it at source, donating what’s edible, and composting what’s not, the city as a whole would reduce landfilled commercial food waste 14 percent.
ReThink Food NYC Inc, is trying to fix this extensive problem. With donations from some of NYC’s top restaurants and product suppliers such as Eleven Madison Park, Fleishers, Square Roots, and many more. The company takes excess food from food distributors, restaurants, and other services institutions and transform it into delicious, safe, ready-to-eat meals for the NYC food bank and other social service agencies. The donators get the benefit of a potential tax write-off, so it’s a win-win for everyone. Over the last year the ReThink has worked extremely hard with their team of lawyers and industry professionals to help create a cohesive system that allows them to redistribute all the wonderful excess food in New York City.
Last Monday, May 14th, ReThink held a celebratory gala at the iconic NoMad Hotel. An evening of delicious food, cocktails, and fun ensued. Board members, gave a heartwarming speech stating that, “This is only the beginning, we are going to help a lot more people.” Live entertainment and music was provided by Purr, while delectable food and drink specialties, curated by The NoMad, roamed around all night. A coveted silent auction also took place, with guests bidding on generous gifts and items donated by top restaurant and hospitality groups from all over NYC.
In attendance were a lot of people from the restaurant industry, and after speaking with a few of them, it was apparent that these people truly believe in the organization and the charitable aspect of feeding the 1 in 4 Americans that still go hungry every day. Pietro Collina, the social equity director for the ReThink passionately said that, “We are not about making money, we are all coming with backgrounds in the food and hospitality industry so we know the business, and we just want to help people, that’s why we are a non-profit.”
It was a wonderful night filled with amazing people for an essential cause. All proceeds from the evening are charitable donations and will go toward the continued success and growth of ReThink.
About ReThink Food
Rethink Food NYC Inc is a non-profit organization working to recover nutritious excess food to provide low or no-cost meals to New York City families in need.
We transform unused food from grocery stores, restaurants, and farmers’ markets into meals that are delivered to local agencies in New York City; serving those in need. With the initiative to run a community kitchen, our top chefs can both serve their community while developing entrepreneurial and leadership skills to help students establish an education that they will carry with them into future careers. Rethink Food NYC Inc goes beyond meals by using food as the tool to promote poverty solutions, implement garden initiatives, participate in nutrition education, and convene food policy events.
Photos courtesy of ReThink
Taco Takeover in Brooklyn
On Saturday, May 12th, Cannonball Productions brought Taco Takeover back to New York City for its second annual celebration of tacos, tequila, empanadas, and beer. The event took place at the Brooklyn Expo Center, where it gathered several local chefs who brought their best Mexican-inspired dishes to the table. With tacos from Queens Bully, Dos Caminos, Mid|Nights, and Zen Taco to empanadas from Empanada Mama, there was something for everyone to indulge in.
Organized a week after Cinco de Mayo, the Taco Takeover included options for traditional taco fans, as well as for those willing to experiment. There was a “Hot Chicken Taco” from the Queens Bully, which was a twist on the concept of a traditional taco since white bread was used instead of the taco shell. The spicy “taco” was accompanied by a cool coconut “margarita,” which was a mixture of Don Julio tequila, coconut milk, cane sugar, and coconut flakes. There were also fun vegetarian options, such as the “Shroom Taco” from Dos Caminos, and “Masala Jackfruit” taco from Baar Baar, which included spices and ingredients from the South-Asian cuisine.
Besides the finger-licking food and fun alterations on classic drinks, the Taco Takeover also transported its visitors to a summer getaway. The event included beer pong and inflatable pool floats as props for photobooth photos provided by Deadpool and Lyft while songs from Celia Cruz to J Balvin were playing. It was difficult not to think of the approaching summer days.
Missed out on the Taco Takeover in NYC? No worries, since Taco Takeover will also be coming to Dallas, TX and San Diego, CA. The organizers of the event are also invested in working with local non-profit organizations and food recovery programs in order to donate leftover food to those in need. If you’re interested in finding out more information about the festival, visit https://thetacotakeover.com
Taste of the Upper West Side 2018
With new bars and restaurants opening everyday on the Upper West Side (UWS), it’s difficult to stay on top of them! However, every year, there is one event that gives the people from the neighborhood and all over NYC to experience the eclectic culinary scene of the UWS in just one place
Taste of the Upper West Side 2018 took place on May 18th and 19th under the Grand Tent at O’Shea Complex Schoolyard, located on Columbus Avenue between 76th and 77th Streets. New Upper West Side restaurants were introduced to the public, as old-time favorites also made appearances. Adding to the fun of this annual food fest was live music, wine tastings and professional mixologists.
The event was broken down into two days with different themes. On Friday, May 18th, “Summer in the City” introduces highly-anticipated new restaurants and bars, along with longtime local favorites. This year’s honoree was Jacob Hadjigeorgis. Jacob is the owner of neighborhood favorites Jacob’s Pickles and Maison Pickle. As always, there was unlimited wine, spirits and music by DJ Phresh – all centered around innovative seasonal food prepared by 40 of the most popular restaurants on the Upper West Side. The restaurant that were yet to open but wanted to give the guests a taste was the savory Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co! Some of the new additions to the UWS present included Zen Taco, Twin Palms, Amelie, Make My Cake, Elea, Recolte, and Vai. Neighborhood favorites like Playa Betty’s, Jing Fong, Bodrum, AG Kitchen, and FishTag all brought their most delicious dishes to show out.
On Saturday, May 19th, “Best of the West” was presented by Park West Village Apartments. On this night, a lucky few had the chance to mingle with celebrity chefs at a limited attendance reception! The honoree is John Fraser, known for Dovetail, The Nix, Narcissa and The Loyal. VIP guests had a special seating area and early entree to the evening’s food, spirit, wine, and beer presentations, and direct access to the chefs before the main event. An hour later, general admission opened the doors to everyone else.
The event highlighted signature bars and mixologists, all prepared unique and delicious cocktails. Participants included Manhattan Cricket Club, Da Capo, Amelie, Guyer’s, Maison Pickle and Prohibition. Best of the West Honoree John Fraser served tastings from Dovetail, along with 40 other Upper West Side restaurants, including The LEOPARD at des Artistes, The Milling Room, Red Farm, Rosa Mexicano, and Crave Fishbar. Live music and entertainment was provided by Joe Battaglia & The New York Big Band further enhancing the ambiance of the Upper West Side’s most anticipated event of the year.
Upon entry guests were given a wine glass necklace – a plastic wine glass on a rubber necklace allowing patrons to double-fistfull bottles of beer and small plates. Almost everyone took these cups home noting how useful they will be at their next event. Everyone also received a bottle cap to deposit at your favorite restaurant in order to announce the overall most popular booth.
Getting to taste all the different cuisines in the neighborhood is only part of the fun. There was a nice couch area set up for those who wanted to step away and relax but I was too into the action to ever really take a seat.
At the end of the night, I have to say, you will hate yourself for many reasons. You will be completely stuffed with overly decedent and rich foods, and more than a few different types of alcohol. This event is absolutely on the list of NYC annual must attend.
Photos courtesy of TUWS
NYSPCC Junior Benefit Spring Soiree
Last Thursday, May 10th The New York Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (The NYSPCC) held its annual Junior Benefit Committee Spring Soiree, this year titled "Bubbly & Bowling." Held at FISHBOWL at Dream Midtown; roughly 100 guests came out to raise money for The NYSPCC. Guests enjoyed music, drinks and a signature cocktail as they capture the night’s moments at the photo-booth. FISHBOWL gave its guests the chance to indulge in past-time - to play on the vintage arcade games and bowling lanes.
NYSPCC’s young philanthropists gather every year to assume social responsibility to raise awareness and essential funds for the efforts of the agency which includes helping children heal from abuse and neglect, and helping families grow stronger.
Guests bid on silent auction filled with highly coveted items such as designer items, amazing vacations, and sports jerseys. The spring benefit raised a large amount, which will be donated to help fund the NYSPCC’s programs.
Proceeds from the evening ensure New York City’s most vulnerable youth and families receive our life-changing and life-saving therapeutic services, free of charge, seven days-a-week.
From the fun atmosphere to the charitable cause, the NYSPCC’s annual spring benefit was not one to miss. Though fear not, the NYSPCC is sure to have another spring benefit next year! Be sure to come again around April-May to buy your ticket to support this wonderful organization.
The mission of The NYSPCC is to respond to the complex needs of abused and neglected children, and those involved in their care, by providing best practice counseling, legal, and educational services. Through research, communications and training initiatives, we work to expand these programs to prevent abuse and help more children heal.
The vision of The NYSPCC is for all children to be safe from abuse and neglect. The NYSPCC intends to accomplish this by establishing best practice primary, secondary, and tertiary child abuse and neglect prevention programs that serve the most complex and challenging cases. We can impact the child protection field by establishing a national presence through publication of our work and by teaching and training on local, state, and national levels. By achieving a national presence we will positively impact the lives of countless children and their families.
Photos courtesy of High10media
Bond No.9 "Bond Fire"
Bond No. 9 New York Perfumerie hosted a Bond Fire at a spectacular event on Tuesday, May 8th to promote international peace and celebrate the brand's partnership with the UN Women for Peace Association. Notable guests included: Laurice Rahmé, Muna Rihani Al-Nassar, Barbara Winston, Michal Grayevsky, Valbona Neritani, Avideh Ghaffari, Susan Gutfreund, Charlene Haroche, Alice Sun, May Zhao, Callie Leone, Leesa Rowland, Victor Roquette, Rachel Alonso-Mendoza, and Laura Day Webb who gathered to #BONDFORPEACE.
Held in the private restaurant at 432 Park Avenue, overseen by Michelin-Starred Chef Shaun Hergatt, Laurice Rahmé, Bond No. 9 Founder and CEO, Dame Muna Rihani Al-Nasser, Chairman and members of the Board of the UN Women for Peace Association and UN Ambassadors and Dignitaries lit 100 Bond No. 9 Scent of Peace Candles on the venue’s 5000 square foot terrace overlooking 57th Street to promote tolerance, respect and the creation of a peaceful world.
Guests were treated to performances by violinists Frédérique Gnaman, Rebecca Telford-Marx, and Meghan Todt, young alumnae of the Music Performance program at NYU Steinhardt.
Intended for men and women alike, The Scent of Peace (arguably the most beautifully civic-minded fragrance ever devised) starts off with sparkling, energizing grapefruit and black current notes, that soon are balanced by the sheer loveliness of lily of the valley, and by those mellowing base notes, cedarwood and musk. The flacon displays a dove in graceful flight. We see this emissary of peace soaring through our city, across the country, across the seas, bringing its message to the world.
Bond No. 9 is proud to partner with The UN Women For Peace Association. For every Scent of Peace candle sold leading up to Mother’s Day, Bond No. 9 will donate 1% of sales to further the organization’s mission and promote international peace for women, girls and for all. “As a brand our mission is not just to make new products, but do something bigger,” Laurice Rahmé, Founder and CEO, Bond No. 9 said.
The Scent of Peace is sold at Bond No. 9’s five retail boutiques in New York City, Saks Fifth Avenue, Select Bloomingdale’s and www.bondno9.com. Suggested Retail Price: $330 for 100ml eau de parfum; $230 for 50ml eau de parfum; Body Silk, $125; Scented Candle, $105
Photos courtesy of Marder + Company
El Museo del Barrio - 25th Annual Gala
On Thursday, May 11th, El Museo del Barrio, the nation’s premiere Latino and Latin American cultural institution founded by the Puerto Rican community, celebrated its 25th Annual Gala. Considered the museum’s most important fundraising event of the year, the Gala, held at The Plaza Hotel in New York City, welcomed nearly 400 luminaries and leaders in business, finance, fashion, entertainment, art and philanthropy.
The evening included a silent and live benefit auction, in partnership with Paddle8, featuring works of art generously donated by artists, including Francis Alÿs, Abraham Cruzvillegas, Carmen Herrera, Raphael Montañez Ortiz, Liliana Porter, among others. El Museo's Executive Director, Patrick Charpenel, and Museum Trustee, Clarice Oliveira Tavares selected all works. The evening’s efforts raised more than $900,000 in support of El Museo’s ever-expanding Permanent Collection, acclaimed exhibitions, innovative programs, and renowned bilingual education initiatives.
Maria Eugenia Maury, El Museo Gala Chair and the Chair of the Board of Trustee, states: "Last night, The Plaza was filled with excitement, as we celebrated El Museo del Barrio and our distinguished honorees. We are especially grateful to the generous and essential support of our wonderful partners and patrons who have helped us surpass our fundraising goals. We look forward to welcoming everyone to El Museo’s Gala in 2019, when we will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of El Museo del Barrio.”
El Museo’s 25th Annual Gala honored four individuals who have distinguished themselves in the fields of fashion, arts and cultural patronage. These include: artist Marta Minujín for Excellence in the Arts; fashion designer Esteban Cortazar for Excellence in Fashion; collector César Reyes, as an Outstanding Patron of the Arts; and music producer Maestro Julio Reyes Copello, as a Cultural Pioneer.
The gala and Museo is supported by a partnership with 11th generation master tequila makers, Maestro Dobel Tequila, who generously provided specialty tequila cocktails, and will be supporting museum events throughout the rest of the year. Maestro Dobel Tequila is a brand at the intersection of legacy and innovation, and looks to foster new creative conversations around Mexican art and culture, and its influence on international trends. Immediately after the evening’s program, guests celebrated with a spirited dance floor lead by Avenida B Salsa Dura Band, an 11-person salsa band based in New York City.
ABOUT EL MUSEO DEL BARRIO
El Museo del Barrio, New York's leading Latino cultural institution welcomes visitors of all backgrounds to discover the artistic landscape of Latino, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures. Their richness is represented in El Museo's wide-ranging Permanent Collection and critically acclaimed exhibitions, complemented by film, literary, visual and performing arts series, cultural celebrations, and educational programs.
El Museo del Barrio is located at 1230 Fifth Avenue at 104 Street in New York City. The Museum’s Galleries are currently undergoing renovations and will reopen to the public in the fall of 2018. For more information on these and other renovations, visit www.elmuseo.org.
For more information on El Museo del Barrio, please visit www.elmuseo.org. To connect with El Museo del Barrio via Social Media, follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/elmuseo, Instagram at Instagram.com/elmuseo, and Twitter at Twitter.com/elmuseo.
Photos courtesy of El Museo del Barrio
Publicolor's SS+R 2018
Publicolor celebrated its 22nd Anniversary at their annual gala, Stir Splatter + Roll on April 23 at the Metropolitan Pavilion. The evening’s colorful cocktail hour began at 6pm with 18 painting stations where guests participated with some of NYC’s leading artists, designers, and architects to create customized works of art.
Publicolor honored longtime supporter Chris Ward (AECOM VP and CEO, Metro New York, and former Executive Director of Port Authority), who attended with his family, along with groundbreaking composer Philip Glass, with the Catalyst for Change Award who performed at the benefit.
While working from the Port Authority, Ward was instrumental to secure Publicolor's 2002 community revitalization project, The Painted Promenade. Students in the Publicolor program, from high schools across the City, painted a bridge on West 39th Street between Ninth and Tenth Avenues in sunshine yellow and turquoise blue. Sixteen years later, the colorfully painted walls have become a fixture in Hell's Kitchen (and the backdrop to the famed Hell's Kitchen Flea Market), thanks to Ward.
“It's always a joy to celebrate our students who are succeeding despite the enormous challenges of poverty- homelessness, food insecurity, lack of good role models or advocates, neglect," said Ruth Lande Shuman, President of Publicolor. "They are realizing their potential - graduating high school, graduating college, and giving back to their communities by painting joy, respect, dignity and safety in under-resourced neighborhood facilities like health clinics, shelters, childcare centers, and community centers. They inspire us every day!”
The event’s master of ceremonies was Publicolor’s longtime supporter, Jeffrey Banks. The evening's live auction was led by Christie's Lydia Fenet.
Guests included: Sarah Billstein, Chuck Close, Paige Davis, Frederick Doner, Barbara Flood, Jim Gutmann, Chloe Gutmann, Boo Grace, Joan Hornig, Steve Kohn, Gene Kohn,Julia Lescarbeau, Takaaki Matsumoto and Julie Matsumoto, Andrea Marcucci, Nicole Miller, Lori Parkinson, Monica parekh and Deven Parekh, Rosa Pietanza, Alex and Michael Shuman, Andrew Oshrin with children Sophia Oshrin and William Oshrin, Leckie Roberts, Tziporah Salamon, Suzanne Scott, Jamie Singer, Robert Soros, Suzanne Tick, John Williams, John Ward, Kate Ward, Pam Ward, Doug Wilson.
Painting Team Leaders included Jon Otis + Diane Barnes; Rob Rogers, FAIA + Alissa Bucher; Henry Myerberg; Rainey Day Erwin; D. Pearson Feinn; Paul Haigh; Joan Hornig; Takaaki Matsumoto; Nicole Miller; Milly; Paul Aferiat + Peter Stamberg; Tucker Viemeister; Dan Walsh; Doug Wilson; Vicente Wolf; Saya J. Woolfalk, and Gerard Yosca.
The Silent Auction items included the Albers Foundation, Jane Benson, Ross Bleckner, Dana Bronfman, Christo, Chuck Close, Paolo Costagli, Mark Di Suvero, Michele Oka Doner, Rainey Day Erwin, D. Pearson Feinn, Tom Geismar, Gensler, Philip Glass, Paul Haigh, Michael Hambouz, Joan Hornig, Rashid Johnson, Maira Kalman, Gene Kohn, Michael Kors, LIVE with Kelly and Ryan, Arielle Tepper Madover, Takaaki Matsumoto, Stacey Mayrock, John Morning, the LeRoy Neiman Foundation, Gaetano Pesce, Karim Rashid, Laurie Simmons, Swoon, Union Square Hospitality Group, Dan Walsh, “WhatShouldWeDo?!”, Kehinde Wiley, and Sonya Winner.
PUBLICOLOR BY NUMBERS Unlike many other youth organizations that focus on high-achieving, low-income students, Publicolor deliberately focuses on low-income students who are at high risk of dropping out of school. Publicolor’s project-based learning model succeeds in engaging them in their education and empowers them with skills for success in school, work, and life despite many challenges of poverty.
ABOUT PUBLICOLOR’S FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF PUBLICOLOR RUTH LANDE SHUMAN:
A dynamic and passionate innovator, Ruth Lande Shuman is an award-winning industrial designer and Founder/President of Publicolor. Ms. Shuman has been deeply committed to community- based volunteer work for over thirty years, most notably as a founding trustee of the Big Apple Circus, where she served as Trustee Emerita. She was also a board member of the Wiltwyck school’s union-free school, a board member of the Rowena Reed Kostellow Fund at Pratt Institute, a board member of The Kitchen, and was the Mayor’s representative to the board of the Museum of Art & Design in New York City. Ms. Shuman founded Publicolor in 1996 to use color, collaboration, design, and the discipline of the commercial painting to engage at- risk students in their education, targeting the most underserved communities, most underperforming schools and most seriously disadvantaged middle and high school students. Most recently, Ms. Shuman has been recognized by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) as an Honorary Fellow and also named a “Living Landmark” by the New York Landmarks Conservancy.
ABOUT PUBLICOLOR:
Publicolor fights poverty by aggressively addressing the alarming dropout rate and low levels of educational attainment and youth employment in New York City. They do this by engaging high- risk students, ages 12-24, in a long-term continuum of intensive, multi-day, design-based programs to encourage academic achievement, community service, college preparation and job readiness. Their unique applied learning approach uses design and design thinking as vehicles to engage, stimulate and inspire at-risk, low-performing students in our city’s struggling middle and high schools, empowering them to achieve success in school, college, career and life. For more information about Publicolor, go to: http://publicolor.org/
Photos by Annie Watt
Sushi by Bou Preview Party
On Tuesday, May 8th, a brand new dining experience in Chelsea opened its doors for an exclusive preview of its food and drinks menu.: Sushi by Bou. A Limelight patio located at the foot of Jue Lan Club, Sushi by Bou is the perfect spot for the ever-rushing New Yorkers as it offers a 30-minute speakeasy experience from sushi chefs David Bouhadana, Michael Sinensky, and Erika London.
Sushi by Bou invites New Yorkers and guests from around the world to embrace the Japanese practice of “Omakase,” which allows the meals to be selected by the chefs rather than the visitors. The outdoor dining experience serves 8 to 10 guests and offers drinks like sake, Japanese whisky, rose, and champagne. In addition, with summer approaching, Sushi by Bou also presents a new addition of slushie cocktails, including a refreshing mixture of rose sangria and sake.
The food menu certainly does not disappoint. With choices such as Hamachi, Albacore Tuna, Botan Shrimp, and Wagyuni (Wagyu with Uni on top), Sushi by Bou is bound to make one feel happy and full in less than an hour.
If you are looking for an unique dining experience for the summer, Sushi by Bou will open its doors for lunch and dinner on Monday, May 14. The reservations can be made via text at 917-870-1587, and the address is 49 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011.
The Parkinson’s Foundation 2018 Gala
The Parkinson’s Foundation 2018 Gala was held at Cipriani 25 Broadway in New York City on Tuesday, May 8, 2018. Willie Geist, Host of NBC News’ “Sunday TODAY with Willie Geist” and Co-Host of MSNBC’s “Morning Joe”, served as the Master of Ceremonies. 280 supporters were in attendance and the evening raised $750,000 to benefit the Parkinson’s Foundation, a national organization working towards a cure for Parkinson’s disease.
The Gala honored Parkinson's Foundation Board Member, Richard D. Field, retired Senior Executive of BNY Mellon and MasterCard, Founding Director of Lending Tree, financial services industry leader, and Parkinson's advocate.
Guests enjoyed a musical performance by a special cabaret performance by Bob Hardwick and Broadway Cast.
Karen Elizabeth Burke, M.D., Ph.D., Kate and Read Coughlin, Ian and Melissa Cutler, Peter and Whitney Cutler, Jill Taub Drury, Dickie and Beth Field, Jim and Janet Field, Sky Field, Stephanie Goldman, Isobel Robins Konecky, Arlene Levine, and Devon Pastor were the Gala Co-Chairs.
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.
Photos courtesy of The Parkinson’s Foundation
The Springs Preview
If you are on the lookout for a new summer cocktail bar, The Springs is the place to go. Located on the border of Brooklyn and Queens in the Greenpoint neighborhood, The Springs offers a 1950s Southern California vibe without having to leave New York.
Sarah Boisjoli Photography
Sarah Boisjoli Photography
Sarah Boisjoli, who is a mixologist, photographer, and the owner of the new “it” spot, introduces a wide variety of perfect summer cocktails. The cocktails include classics, such as the Old-Fashioned, but also cocktail slushies that come in surprising flavors and with unique names, such as Sunburn (Tequila, Aloe Vera, Blue Curacao, and Lime), Desert Springs (Milagro Silver Tequila, Dolin Blanc, cucumber, mint and Thai chile), Riverside Revival (Hendricks gin, grapefruit cordial, lemon, and Absinthe). If you are feeling a bit more on the traditional side, you are welcome to grab a refreshing Pina-Colada or a classic Coca-Cola float from the bar.
Sarah Boisjoli Photography
Sarah Boisjoli Photography
To complement the delicious assortment of summer cocktails, you are welcome to grab a juicy beef burger, mac’n’cheese, or a martini-flavored grilled cheese. Want something a bit more on the healthier side? Try the eggplant rollatini sticks that come with their own special dip.
Sarah Boisjoli Photography
Sarah Boisjoli Photography
Sarah Boisjoli Photography
The Springs has everything and more to offer. With summer temperatures in town, it is the perfect time to pay a visit to Southern California without breaking the bank by taking the train to 224 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222.
Photos courtesy of Springs
RealEats goes Veggie
RealEats is the only meal subscription service offering fresh, healthy meals with ingredients sourced from New York’s Finger Lakes region, that are ready to eat in six minutes or less. Adapting sous-vide technology, RealEats offers fresh, convenient and thoughtfully sourced meals to consumers who care about what they eat, but may not have the time to shop, prep, cook and clean.
RealEats works with acclaimed chefs to create sophisticated meal options, and recently launched — just in time for summer! — three new vegetarian meals, including Farratto with peas, spring green onions and asparagus, Sumac Sweet Potatoes with quinoa tabbouleh and citrus labne, and Pasta Caponata with peppers, eggplant and ricotta.
In addition to the three new vegetarian meals, RealEats also added three new non-vegetarian meals to the menu, including Roast Chicken with mushrooms, potatoes and swiss chard, BBQ Brisket with red cabbage slaw and smashed potatoes, and Maple Rosemary Turkey with lentils and roasted beets, turnips, radishes, parsnips, red onions, celery and carrots.
Now offering 18 meal options, RealEats is currently available in 21 states with plans to expand to the Midwest and West Coast.
Photos courtesy of RealEats
Billion Oyster Party 2018
The oyster party of the year went down again in Red Hook on April 27th when the New York Harbor School’s Billion Oyster Project threw its annual fundraiser bash. Once again, NY Waterway provided a complementary and convenient ferry ride from Pier 11 to Red Hook for guests to arrive at the party in style. Upon arrival, attendees packed the spacious Pioneer Works for the ultimate oyster experience. The amazing experience offered its guests to try oysters from over 50 oyster farms, dishes from 20 chefs, and uncountable good moments. To date, Billion Oyster Project has restored 25 million oysters to NY Harbor. Throughout the night, over 30,000 oyster shells were collected, which will return to NY Harbor to help restore oyster reefs.
Attendees washed down the oysters with brews, sodas, spirits and wines from local partners while watching the BOP All-Star Shucking Championship. Guests also got the chance to speak to NY Harbor School students about their work on the project. Not only did the chefs serve their best fairs, each of the growers also spoke about their experiences being pioneers in this emerging industry. Like any incipient industry there are hurdles, however, each one spoke ardently about the business and their campaigns for future growth.
This annual party is just a step towards the final goal of restoring 1 billion oysters by 2035 while fostering the next generation of environmental stewards and reconnecting New Yorkers to the waterfront. Proceeds from the event will support the four program areas of the Billion Oyster Project: Oyster Production, Reef Construction & Monitoring, Shell Collection, BOP Schools, and Public Engagement. Each program stands alone as an important advance in ecosystem restoration and public education. Together they make up the Harbor and City-wide project that will have a dramatic impact on ecosystem health as well as public awareness, understanding and appreciation of NY Harbor.
All in all, this year’s party, which was the largest one to date, was both an unforgettable experience and a highly educational event. After experiencing all that the Billion Oyster Party had to offer, guests absolutely left feeling upbeat, pleasantly full from incredible food, and informed on an incredible mission. It was the perfect way to start Spring.
To learn more or to donate to BOP please visit:
Photos by Kirsten Midura and David Hawkins
Tribeca Film Festival - TIME'S UP and Natalie Dormer
The eleventh day of the 17th Tribeca Film Festival presented by AT&T collaborated with TIME’S UP to host the Day of Conversation and Action, which featured conversations with a range of women who are playing a pivotal role in raising awareness about inequality in the workplace. Activists, storytellers, business leaders, filmmakers, lawyers, media figures, and more shared their stories. Highlights included:
· Julianne Moore and Jurnee Smollett-Bell opened the day by introducing TIME’S UP with Moore saying that "our understanding of what’s acceptable has been skewed by what is normalized by society,” and calling for change.
· Saru Jayaraman (co-founder of the Restaurant Opportunities Centers United) detailed the rampant sexual harassment in the restaurant industry and demanded action.
· Sienna Miller introduced the panel, "A New Direction: Behind the Lens" with female filmmakers, and said, "[we're] not just wives and girlfriends in life...it's on all of us to pave the path and help stories be told."
· Former NFL player and advocate Wade Davis talked about the importance of starting the conversations around sexuality and sexual assault early.
· Lupita Nyong’o, Cynthia Erivo, Mira Sorvino and Amber Tamblyn talked about the roles women are cast in, the importance of telling rich stories on screen, and the impact of portraying powerful female characters in film. Erivo said, "I’m trying to make people aware that we have a choice in the way we are perceived. I see myself differently and I want that to help other young ladies get the permission to also see themselves differently."
· Marisa Tomei talked about the impact of - and introduced - the TIME'S UP Legal Defense Fund, who discussed legal wins.
· Mariska Hargitay introduced a panel about "Activism Through the Ages" during which Robin Morgan fired up the audience and also got them laughing, saying, "the women’s movement is the most fun you can have sitting up."
· Ashley Judd shared a personal letter about the fortitude it has taken and the personal empowerment she has experienced as a survivor.
· The event concluded with a speech from the CMO of TIME'S UP and a performance from the Resistance Revival Chorus.
Elsewhere at the Festival, Natalie Dormer was joined by Director Larysa Kondracki and executive producer Jo Porter for the North American premiere of their new series Picnic at Hanging Rock, a reimagining of the 1975 film. During a panel after the screening, speaking about her character, Hester Appleyard, and other characters she has chosen to play in her career, Dormer said she is attracted to “complicated women” more so than strong women. Appleyard in particular she describes as one of the most complicated, and someone who “really needs to go to therapy”. She also spoke about her hesitance ahead of taking the role, saying, “I’m not doing another corset job” before being blown away by a phone conversation with the writer.
Director Haifaa al-Mansour producer Amy Baer, and actor Douglas Booth were greeted by fans on the red carpet at BMCC for the US premiere of their new film Mary Shelley. The film tells the story of a young Mary Wollstonecraft (Elle Fanning) as she embarks on a whirlwind romance which leads her to invent one of the most iconic horror stories of all time, before she’s even 20 years old.
Laura Poitras, director of Citizenfour, The Oath, and My Country, My Country, participated in a Tribeca Talks conversation today moderated by Sheila Nevins, former president of HBO Documentary Films. Both power women admitted that they were both “mutually intimated” by each other. Nevins praised Poitras’ bravery jokingly asking her if she was “medicated in anyway or if is it natural courage.” Other topics they spoke about were the #metoo movement, the future of streaming platform, and what drew them to documentaries. Nevins even made the statement “if anyone can change the world with a documentary, it would be Laura.”
Nebraska natives Alexander Payne and Dick Cavett took part in the Tribeca Talks: Directors series today. The two traded stories about some of the most prolific actors they’ve worked with throughout their careers, including Jack Nicholson, Mike Nichols, Marlon Brando, and George Clooney, who Payne worked with on 2011’s The Descendants. Speaking about fame, Payne told a story about how Clooney’s Kentucky town approached him about naming a street after him. When they asked what street name they should change to “George Clooney Boulevard,” instead of choosing Main Street, Clooney asked “where does so and so live,” referring to his former bully. That way, Clooney’s former bully would have “George Clooney Blvd” on his driver’s license and every time he writes a check.
Closing night featured the first part of Showtime’s new four-part documentary The Fourth Estate which gives an inside look at The New York Times as they track Trump’s first year in office. Ann Curry moderated a conversation after the screening with The New York Times Executive Editor Dean Baquet, Washington Bureau Chief Elisabeth Bumiller, White House Correspondent Julie Davis, Washington Investigative Correspondent Mark Mazzetti, director Liz Garbus, and producer Jenny Carchman. Curry noted the term “embedded” in journalism is usually associated with the military, but after seeing this film it does seem that they are in a “war for figuring out what’s truth” during this “unpredictable presidency.” Speaking of Trump, Bumiller responded “he says three different things in the same day, so you do the best you can” which triggered laughter from the audience. The panel then spoke about how Trump and the media have a strained relationship. Garber explained that once “Hillary Clinton [was done being] his main punching bag, it became the press.” Davis said they are “always vetting” their information while Baquet added that the press must cover “aggressive and fair.” Davis noted for this project they made it a point to film the journalists in their homes to show they are “full people, not just by-lines or talking heads” and while filming in the newsroom, Garber said the crew worked with them to “protect their sources and make them feel more comfortable to let us in.”
EastmeetEast Ramen Competition
The EastMeetEast dating website and app held its first annual "EastMeetEast Singles Ramen Eating Competition" on Monday, April 23rd at the world-famous Gotham West Market. Demonstrating how to gobble up Ramen noodles as quickly as possible and judging the competition was six-time Nathan's Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Champion and eight-time Guinness World Record holder, Takeru Kobayashi.
EastMeetEast is a successful website and app for creating happy, passionate, and fulfilling relationships. Among the Asian population in North America, 29,079 individuals have found partners through the site so far.
"We wanted to do something fun and exciting to bring singles together in a non-traditional way," says EastMeetEast Founder Mariko Tokioka. "Having Kobayashi judge the competition and demonstrate is the icing on the cake. He not only brings his expertise to the event, but an exhilarating and dramatic flair wherever he goes. The excitement surrounding him is palpable."
Six contestants (4 male, 2 female) faced off in the competition. Behind every contestant were their EastMeetEast dating profiles, which had fun amazing facts about their lives to attract potential future partners.
Known for his trademark body wiggle- the "Kobayashi Shake", Kobayashi started off the competition by demonstrating to the contestants the keys to winning by slurping down 3 bowls in under 20 seconds.
After chowing down the grand total of 15 bowls! The winner was Wayne Algenio, a former Guinness world record holder for eating the most Carolina reapers (the hottest pepper in the world) in 1 minute. EastMeetEast will give Wayne an all-expense paid dream-date. "Maybe we can find someone for you" said Kenji, the marketer of EastMeetEast, after handing Wayne a prize envelope.
See the full highlight video below:
About EastMeetEast: EastMeetEast is a successful platform for creating happy, passionate, and fulfilling relationships. Thanks to EastMeetEast's high matching ratio among the Asian population in North America, 29,079 individuals have found partners through our site so far.
About Takeru Kobayashi: Takeru Kobayashi is a Japanese competitive eater. He is a six-time Nathan's Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Champion and eight-time Guinness World Record holder.
Photos Courtesy of EastmeetEast