Red Bull X Pac Man
Red Bull recently celebrated the release of their limited-edition Pac-Man inspired cans by hosting a party of retro perfection. The 80’s themed event took place on November 8th in the cozy downstairs of the Flower Shop.
Different patterns and textures filled this hole-in-the-wall pub located in the Lower East Side. The Flower Shop’s unique interior is artistically dated and unconventional, the perfect setting to instill nostalgia for the past. The vibe of the place is truly unique. The couches, flower displays and framed pictures invoked a comfort level similar to that of being at home. The downstairs is finished to be a friendly space to hangout with a fireplace and pool table.
Of course, Red Bull shook things up a bit by adding Pac Man to the decor mix for the evening. A live-action Pac Man game took center stage, and guests were encouraged to beat the infamous “high score.” In true gamer fashion, pinball machines were also a part of the excitement, as well as the newly launched cans that were modeled inside the screens of old-school television sets.
To satisfy every guest’s Red Bull craving, a specialty cocktail menu provided three drink options creatively named Pinky’s Drinky, Level Up, and Ghosted. All were deliciously blended and gave a noticeable kick of energy.
The party was powered with music from Hannah Bronfman and Kitty Cash. Pac Man himself was even there to meet-and-greet with guests, snapping photos with his fans all night.
From start to finish, the downstairs of the Flower Shop was packed, a full house by all means. The location, theme, and occasion were the perfect way to honor the collaboration of Red Bull and Pac Man. The Pac Man designed cans are currently in-stores now, be sure to check them out! The promotion will run from October 29th to the end of the year.
YAGP 20th Anniversary Kick Off
Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) celebrated their 20th Anniversary Season with a cocktail party at the New York residence of Jean Shafiroff. YAGP alumni dancers attending included Kimin Kim (Mariinsky Ballet), Dylan Gutierrez (Joffrey Ballet), Sasha De Sola (San Fransisco Ballet), Angelo Greco (San Francisco Ballet), Calvin Royal III (American Ballet Theatre) as well as Mariinsky Ballet's Xander Parish,Viktoria Tereshkina, Anastasia Nuikina, Maria Khoreva, Daria Ionova, Yuri Fateev, and Joffrey Ballet's Artistic Director Ashley Wheater.
The hostess greeted her guests in a hot pink Oscar de la Renta dress. The late-night soiree followed a performance of the Balanchine Festival at City Center and went into the wee hours with dancers and ballet patrons sipping champagne around her dining table.
Guest included YAGP board members Sergey Gordeev, Suzanne Hall, Judith M. Hoffman, Christina Lyon, Linda K. Morse, Richard Osterweil, Howard Paley, Elizabeth Papadapoulos, Susan and Greg Pappajohn, and John Sills as well as Edgar Batista, Delin Bru, Valentino Carlotti, Sue Dorn, Joanna Fisher, Marjorie and Ellery Gordon, Peter Hay Halpert, Cathy Hardwick, Sharon King Hoge, Michèle Gerber Klein, Aimee Maroney, Wendy Moonan, Cole Rumbough, Sana Sabbagh, Andrew Martin Weber, and Hal J. Witt.
Youth America Grand Prix is the largest global network of dance. YAGP fulfills its mission of dance education through scholarship auditions, master classes, alumni services, performances, educational and outreach activities. 2019 is YAGP's 20th Anniversary season! Over the past 20 years the organization has provided opportunities to 80,000 dancers worldwide and have gifted talented young dancers more than $3.5 million in scholarships to leading dance schools and companies around the world.
Today, more than 10,000 young dancers – ages 9 to 19 – audition annually. 450 Youth America Grand Prix alumni are now dancing with 80 professional companies around the world. 100 of these alumni are soloists and principal dancers. The organization was founded by Larissa Saveliev, who trained at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow and toured throughout the world, before defecting to the United States in 1995.
Photo Credit: Credit: Mark Sagliocco For PMC
Vote. Because It Matters.
Election day is Tuesday, November 6. New York offers absentee ballots by mail to voters who will be unable to vote in person. All other voters are expected to vote in person.
Voters registered in New York can look up where to vote on New York's site or at GetToThePolls.com.
No early voting
New York does not offer an early voting period. If you will be unable to vote in person on Election Day, you can request an absentee ballot by mail or by visiting your local election office.
What to bring
If you've voted in New York before, you don't need to provide ID to vote.
If you're a first-time voter who registered by mail, and didn't provide a copy of your ID with your registration, you may need to show ID to vote. Acceptable forms include: a current and valid photo ID; or a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and address.
Voters without ID: If you are unable to provide ID, you will be able to vote an affidavit ballot.
Mercado Global Fashion Forward
On Thursday, November 1st, the 6th annual Fashion Forward Celebration was held on at The Bowery Hotel. The annual benefit raised funds and awareness for the work Mercado Global does to empower women entrepreneurs.
At the ceremony, Yael Aflalo, Founder of Reformation, received the 2018 Global Impact Award, presented by Lyndsey Butler; Karla Martinez de Salas, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Mexico & Latin America, received the 2018 Fashion Forward Visionary Award presented by Alexi Lubomirski; and Alida Boer, Philanthropist and Entrepreneur, received the 2018 Ambassador Award, presented by Aaron Diaz.
“At a time when the challenges facing women and families in Central America has been front and center in the news, it was so inspiring to see so many New Yorkers out in support of our work,” says Mercado Global Founder Ruth DeGolia, of the special evening. “The generosity and support of New York’s fashion, finance and philanthropic communities is unbelievable.”
Guests enjoyed Latin-themed chef's tables and cocktails prepared by Baby Brasa Organic Peruvian Cuisine, Toloache, Llamita, and specialty cocktails by Tabernero Pisco, Santera Tequila, Se Busca Mezcal and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.
Mercado Global is a Brooklyn-based accessory brand and non-profit that empowers rural Latin American women to become entrepreneurs. Through donor-funded business education and leadership programs, we help women create community businesses to support themselves and their families. By designing collections for the international market while using traditional local weaving techniques, we are changing the status quo for women, communities, and the industry.
DeGolia continues: “It was inspiring to see so many New Yorkers come together in support of our work giving a hand up to women and families in Central America. At a time when these women and families face so many challenges, the support and generosity for our Central American neighbors that the New York Community showed last night filled me with optimism and hope.”
It was a wonderful night full of generosity and fun.
Photos courtesy of Mercado
Food Loves Tech 2018
This past weekend, Edible Manhattan and Edible Brooklyn’s all you can eat and drink innovation expo, Food Loves Tech, returned to Industry City. The festival is known for being an experience that brings your mind and your taste buds into the future.
On Friday, the prelude to the expo called the Future of Cocktails took place. Sponsored by Belvedere and Blue Point, this year’s opening night to Food Loves Tech brought together the most forward-thinking bartenders and spirits, taking guests on a bar crawl of the future.
Now in its third year, Food Loves Tech focuses on how technology and innovation shape the way we cultivate and consume food. The two-day festival included immersive installations, tastings, leadership panels, and dining experiences. Guests got to test the technologies of the future impacting the food chain from field and sea to the next generation.
The expo returned with more than 90 food innovators and dozens of experts showcasing their creations as well as many of NYC's most respected chefs, who presented their progressive, awe-inspiring imaginings.
Educational presentation not only included digital technology, but also new alternative ingredients, best practices, sustainability, composting, appliances, and even shifts toward more simplistic approaches of the past. The expo also featured panels on food-related technologies in food genetics, environment, health, homes, restaurants, urban agriculture, and more.
At the two day-long, walk-around event, guests gained an insight into what they will be eating in the future - and how it will be made.
The charity partner ReThink Food will ensure all excess food from the event will provide meals to those in need.
25th Living Landmarks Gala
On November 1, 2018, The New York Landmarks Conservancy hosted its 25th Living Landmarks celebration at The Plaza Hotel. This year’s honorees were: Christie’s Americas chairman emeritus Stephen S. Lash, garden designer Lynden B. Miller, philanthropists Liz and Jeffrey Peek, actress/dancer/singer Chita Rivera, Dr. Thomas Sculco, Publicolor founder Ruth Lande Shuman, Columbia University president Michael I. Sovern, and former MTA Chair Peter Stangl. The sold-out event raised $1.3 million.
Landmark’s president Peg Breen opened the program and introduced the evening’s master of ceremonies, himself a Living Landmark, David Patrick Columbia. Music was provided by another Living Landmark Peter Duchin and his Orchestra. Living Landmarks Arie L. Kopelman and Leonard Lauder served as Honorary Co-Chairs for the evening.
The recipient’s speeches were witty in their own way. Stephen Lash turned his into a live auction. The much-loved philanthropists Liz and Jeff Peek had the crowd in stitches with a David Letterman-style list: "The great thing about being a Living Landmark…is that it sure beats the alternative.” In a moving tribute to her life’s work, Ruth Lande Shuman accepted her award alongside three Publicolor alumni. These students were the first in their families to graduate from high school and college. Dr. Thomas Sculco received praise for giving fellow indomitable honoree Chita Rivera a hip replacement. Michael Sovern's long list of boards and charities drew applause. Peter Stangl recalled the help of Jaqueline Onassis in the restoration of Grand Central Station.
Guests who gathered to celebrate the year’s extraordinary honorees included: Renee and Robert Belfer, Stacey Bronfman, Ellie and Edgar Cullman, Jr., Mayor David Dinkins, Fe and Alessandro Fendi, Carole Bailey French and John French, Barbara and Peter Georgescu, Yaz and Valentine Hernandez, Marlene Hess and James Zirin, Louise Kerz Hirschfeld and Lewis B. Cullman, Harold Koda and Alan Kornberg, Margo Langenberg, Linda Lindenbaum, Gregor Medinger, Sylvester Miniter, Laura and John Pomerantz, Hilary and Wilbur Ross, Emilia Saint-Amand, Barbara and John Schumacher, Jeanne and Alexander Sloane, Judy Steinhardt, Elizabeth Stribling and Guy Robinson, Patsy and Jeff Tarr, Elizabeth and James Tozer, Lauren and John Veronis, Sandy and Stan Warshawsky, Sue Ann Weinberg, and Candace King Weir.
The New York Landmarks Conservancy honors distinguished New Yorkers as “Living Landmarks” for their contributions to the City. The Landmarks Conservancy is dedicated to preserving and protecting the iconic buildings and diverse neighborhoods that define this extraordinary City. It is the only private organization providing both financial and technical support in this effort.
Photos by James Salzano
ARDI and U.S. Air Force Academy Cocktails
ARDI COCKTAILS AND CONVERSATION 2018 BFA
On Thursday, November 1st, ARDI: The Academic Excellence Foundation hosted their first ever Cocktails & Conversation event in New York City at the iconic Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. The ARDI illustrious visiting professors and programs provide the cadets with real-world challenges and insights, exposing them to diverse viewpoints and ideas that enrich their world-class education.
ARDI COCKTAILS AND CONVERSATION 2018 BFA
The purpose of the event was to increase awareness of ARDI’s mission to enhance academic excellence at the United States Air Force Academy through the perpetual endowment of distinguished visiting professorships and support of other programs and initiatives that cover academic disciplines ranging from Arabic Studies and Economics to Professional Ethics and Space Systems Engineering. For more than 30 years, ARDI's ultimate goal is to build their endowment to provide an endowed ARDI professor in all 27 academic departments at the Academy.
Guests delighted in cocktails and passed bites as they had the opportunity to network with senior leadership from the United States Air Force Academy, ARDI executives and board members, and fellow supporters.
The evening also featured remarks by ARDI President, Mick Erdle, NYC Commissioner of Veteran Affairs, Brig. Gen. (ret) Loree Sutton, MD, and the honorable guests from the Academy.
Product donors for this event included Salute American Vodka, which supports American heroes through the sale of high-quality, American-made craft spirits, as well as Luminox, the notable Swiss high-performance watch brand.
All photos by BFA
About ARDI: The Academic Excellence Foundation:
Since its inception in 1984, ARDI has had one singular focus and mission. ARDI strives to support and fortify academic excellence at the United States Air Force Academy by providing perpetually endowed academic chairs.
ARDI solicits tax-exempt donations to endow distinguished visiting professorships honoring great military and civilian leaders, past and present, selected by the major donors. ARDI intends to establish an endowed chair in each USAFA academic department. ARDI currently contributes approximately $1,009,000 each year in indirect support to USAFA through the endowed chair program and ancillary academic activities.
ARDI was co-founded by Brig Gen Philip J. Erdle, USAF (Ret) (a former Vice Dean of the Faculty and Permanent Professor Emeritus) and Maj Gen William Lyon, USAF (Ret), in consultation with the Honorable Verne Orr, Secretary of the Air Force. ARDI is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in the state of Colorado and headquartered in Colorado Springs.
For more information, please visit http://www.ardifoundation.org/.
The Food Film Festival 2018
Last week, The Food Film Festival returned to New York City for its 12th straight year! The four day Festival featured a series of events where food and film lovers got to Taste What They See on the Screen...right in their seats! The festival offers a unique experience where guests get to actually taste the foods they see on the screen right in the comfort of their own seats. It was a dream come true for food and film lovers alike. That's always followed by an official Festival After-Party with more food, drinks and fun, served up by chefs and restaurants from New York City and beyond.
The four-day festival which ran from Oct 24th to the 28th and showcased independent films accompanied by different dishes featured in said films. This year, the Festival kicked off with the World Premiere of Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown / Lower East Side presented by CNN Original Series.
The episode follows Bourdain on a personal journey through this formerly bohemian New York City neighborhood, as he meets, shares meals and reflects with music, film and art trailblazers including Richard Hell, Deborah HARRY and Chris Stein, Lydia Lunch, Fab 5 Freddy, Danny Fields, Amos Poe, Jim Jarmusch, Kembra Pfahler, John Lurie, Clayton Patterson and Harley Flanagan, whose collective cultural impact in the 1970's and '80's has sustained through the decades. 100% of proceeds from opening night will be donated to the Bronx Letters Foundation, a charity that was supported by Anthony Bourdain.
Thursday night, Guests were treated to an exclusive Eat & Greet with Saxon + Parole Chefs Brad Farmerie and Chef Nicole Gajadhar. Beer, wine, cocktails, films and tastes were all part of the exceptional experience.
Friday night celebrated many dishes of New York City's cuisine in Edible Adventures #16: Stories of New York. An eclectic mix of foods and films made here in New York City were presented to the patrons.
Saturday's festivities featured the magic of cooking meat over fire at Fire and Smoke: Texas BBQ and Beyond, bringing together Black's BBQ from Texas, Izzy's Smokehouse from Brooklyn and more. On scene, were the pit-masters responsible for bringing Central Texas Style BBQ to new spaces and chefs who can harness smokey goodness of fire-roasted meats. Presented were also the world famous brisket from renowned Kent and Barrett Black of The Original Black's BBQ in Austin, Texas.
Finally, the Festival closed on Sunday with All You Need is Brunch!
It has been another amazing year for The Food Film Festival, and they could not have done it without the help of so many - and just to name a few - In The Raw, Bloomberg Philanthropies, CNN Original Series, Schweid & Sons, Mann's, NY Distilling Co., Night Kitchen, and their non-profit beneficiary, The Billion Oyster Project.
Photos courtesy of The Food Film Festival
Big Apple Circus
On Sunday, October 28, the Tinsley Mortimer served as a guest ringmaster for the Big Apple Circus opening night. Fellow Real Housewives of New York Stars, Dorinda Medley, Sonja Morgan, and Ramona Singer were all in attendance to support their co-star. The 43-year-old beauty were all smiles as she flawlessly entertained the crowd.
The annual Big Apple Circus is a super outing for people of all ages. If you are looking for quality entertainment in Manhattan, Big Apple Circus cannot be beat. Presented in a traditional big top located in Lincoln Center's Damrosch Park, the show is European style with a single ring surrounded by seats, so no one is more than 50 feet from the action. Even the cheapest tickets are close to the rink.
The world renowned the show featured a roster of super hero talents, including Iron woman Virginia Tuells & her husband Ihosvanys Perez in DUO FUSION, a breathtaking acrobatic act that combines dance, strength, flexibility and passion in which Virginia handles a majority of the lifts; the wildly fun SPICY CIRCUS, created by Andréanne Quintal, whose team of performers will (literally) bounce off the walls in her feisty trampoline act; THE FLYING TUNIZIANIS, a double wide trapeze act showcasing seven fliers & two catchers in addition to the quadruple somersault by Ammed Tuniziani – a feat only successfully landed by ten people in the world – alongside his wife Estefani, brothers Gamal & Dandino, and more; DESIRE OF FLIGHT, a daring and balletic dual aerial straps act; a free-standing ladder balancing act by Emil Faltyny; for the first time in America, the gravity-defying horizontal juggler Victor Moiseev; Big Apple fan- favorite Jenny Vidbel with her cute animals; and the hilarious Mark Gindick &; Adam Kuchler.
The Big Apple Circus was a charming, adrenaline-charged, surprise. Exhilarating from beginning to end. Each act will give you the chills and make you burst out with cheers and hand clapping. Every single performer and animal will grab your attention. There is never a dull moment. I cannot applaud the entire production enough. Get tickets, show up and enjoy!
Big Apple Circus is happening now in Lincoln Center, New York from October 2018- January 2019. Its a New York experience you will not want to miss out on.
11th Annual Holiday House NYC
On Tuesday, October 23rd, the highly acclaimed Holiday House NYC kicked off at their luxurious, new 13,000 sq. foot limestone townhouse at 118 East 76th. The Opening Night Gala offered industry insiders and distinguished guests a first glimpse at the magnificently re-imagined townhouse.
Over 20 talented design firms transformed each room of the newly-built 32-foot-wide mansion, creating extravagantly appointed spaces and innovative designs loosely inspired by “holiday” themes, such as a “Getaway in Paris,” the “Crysthanamum Festival” and the “Modern Royal.”
The show house, which opened its doors to the public on October 24 at Upper East Side on one of New York’s most beautiful blocks, was founded by 21-year veteran breast cancer survivor Iris Dankner.
“We are delighted to be honoring our dear friends and colleagues Design Chairs Thom Filicia, Carson Kressley and Vicente Wolf and our inspiring Honorary Chair Tracy Anderson. We are incredibly grateful to Richard Steinberg and Douglas Elliman for providing our gifted designers with such a marvelous canvas on which to work for the 11th edition of Holiday House NYC. Together we are building awareness about and funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation,” says Ms. Dankner.
“We applaud Iris and the design community’s ongoing support of our organization. The extraordinary talent on display in Holiday House and the design community’s commitment give us meaningful capacity to fuel progress,” says Myra Biblowit, President & CEO of BCRF.
Holiday House NYC donates all gala and ticket sales proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF), and has become one of the City’s leading interior design events.
ABOUT THE BREAST CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION® The Breast Cancer Research Foundation® (BCRF) is dedicated to being the end of breast cancer by advancing the world's most promising research. Founded by Evelyn H. Lauder in 1993, BCRF-funded investigators have been deeply involved in every major breakthrough in breast cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and survivorship. This year, BCRF will award $59.5 million to support the work of more than 275 scientists at leading medical and academic institutions across 15 countries, making BCRF the largest private funder of breast cancer research worldwide. BCRF is the highest rated breast cancer organization in the U.S.—the only one with an "A+" from CharityWatch and Charity Navigator’s highest rating of four stars. Visit www.bcrf.org to learn more.
Photo courtesy of HHNYC
Fearless Jewelry
Unique New York jewelry brand ‘Fearless’ launches to boost gender equality and women empowerment globally
New, NY jewelry brand Fearless summons all women out there to join it in its mission to fast forward gender equality and empower women.
A new jewelry brand was recently launched in NY with a mission to fast forward gender equality and boost women’s empowerment both locally and globally. Aptly titled as “Fearless AF”, the promising brand champions the inner hero in every woman.
Fearless was officially launched in October, 2017. “We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new online jewelry store Fearless AF. Our mission is to shatter the glass ceiling that prevents women to explore their full potential and make their stand. We want to build a world that fosters a culture of gender equality and empowers all people, but especially women, to ensure a true egalitarian society of the future”, stated Anna Hunter, founder of Fearless.
The new online jewelry brand has an exclusive and unique collection including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. Each of the pieces sport meaningful and inspiring messages of women’s empowerment — such as ‘I am enough’, ‘Believe in the beauty of your dreams’, or ‘The future is female’.
Most importantly, all the items carry the FF170 engraving which represents Fearless’ vision to fast forward the 170 year estimated timeline to reach global gender equality per World Economic Forum.
Anna believes that the gender gap can be closed much quicker than the predicted 170 years if women all over the world join hands to work towards an equal society. Her new jewelry store is launched with the vision to help give visibility to the gender equality movement.
In order to jump-start the Fast Forward movement, Fearless will donate 10% of net profits to high impact charities dedicated to the empowerment of women and young girls.
“At Fearless, we believe in the ethos of giving back. We are guided by five main objectives- raise awareness; take personal responsibility to promote women empowerment & gender equality; foster authenticity; freedom of self-expression and stand up for what’s right “, Anna Hunter explained.
Fearless is also working on a new Braille collection for women with special needs.
“We are here to create a line to empower all women to feel strong & fearless.”
For more information, visit www.fearless.af
Sundara Gala
On September 27th, the Sundara team hosted its annual gala at Casa La Femme in West Village. The event supported Sundara’s global mission to provide every child with access to essential hygienic goods and education. Sundara focuses on recycling old bars of soap from hotels that would otherwise be thrown away, employing women to be “hygiene ambassadors.” These women issue the soap and provide lessons on hygiene to community centers, schools, orphanages, and so forth.
Guests at the gala enjoyed drinks, live entertainment, hors d'oeuvres, a photo booth, and a live auction. One of the features of the night included a lively belly dancing performance, which was undoubtedly a crowd favorite. The auction, which was made possible by sponsors such as LUSH, Worth, Barry’s Bootcamp, Hyatt, and others, provided guests with a variety of prizes to go home with, all contributing to Sundara’s operation.
Overall, the evening was a hit. Many guests came to show their support, and Sundara’s efforts will continue to inspire everyone who attended. If you wish to make a donation, see below
Photos courtesy of Sundara
Casita Maria Fiesta 2018
Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education’s Fiesta 2018 was held on Tuesday, October 16th, 2018 at New York’s Plaza Hotel. Each year at Fiesta, the Casita Maria Gold Medal of Honor is awarded to outstanding individuals in recognition to their contribution to the worlds of arts, education, and philanthropy. This year, Casita Maria honored three exceptional philanthropic individuals: Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Mary Snow, and Carlos Souza.
Cuban Actress Sissi Fleitas was the evening’s host. The Dinner Chairmen were Jacqueline Weld Drake, HRH Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, and Carlos Mota. Casita Maria’s Chairman Jacqueline Weld Drake presented all three honorees with their Gold Medals of Honor.
The Honorary Chairs were Elizabeth Peabody, Christine Schwarzman, and Lynn Wyatt.
American-Brazilian singer Bebel Gilberto performed two songs with guitarist Guilherme Monteiro.
"I am proud to say that in 2018, our programs daily serve more than 1,000 promising young members of the Bronx, East Harlem and Harlem communities" said Board Chairman Jaqueline Weld Drake. She went on to say, “Looking ahead to what’s in store in 2019 and beyond, Casita Maria will continue to advance our mission and work to build a brighter, more creative, and culturally rich future for our children and all future residents of the South Bronx and East Harlem.”
Casita Maria’s Executive Director, Haydee Morales, said “For more than 80 years, Casita Maria's educational and creative arts programs have opened doors of joy and opportunity for the youth, families, and communities we serve. We are proud of our history as the first and oldest Latino-serving charity in New York City, and look forward to many more years serving the people of East Harlem, Hunts Point and the South Bronx. Over the last year, we have redoubled our efforts to bring high- quality education to South Bronx youth, and to curate and present artists and performers who represent the best of the Bronx's diversity, beauty, and resilience.”
Guests enjoyed Smoked Salmon Polka Dot Carpaccio as an appetizer, followed by Grilled Filet Mignon as a main course. Dessert was Alternating Fifth Avenue Cheesecake and Blackout Cake Redux.
Guests included: Muffie Potter Aston, Paola Bacchini, Joachim Bader, Edgar Batista, Tony Bechara, Tina and Simon Beriro, Gaby Bonetti, Halim Bulos and Hasan Green, Geoffrey Bradfield, Andrea Casanova, Pippa Cohen, Amy Fine Collins, Suzi Cordish, Francisco Costa, Sofia Sanchez de Betak, Ann Dexter-Jones, Bella Eastham, Madeline Eastham, Moataz El Refaie, Joanna Fisher, Brian Fisher, Sissi Fleitas, Stephen Gainless, Bebel Gilberto (performer), Ellery and Marjorie Reed Gordon, Zani Gugelmann, Giorgio Guidotti, Susan Gutfreund, Ashlee Harrison, Rachel Hovnanian, Johannes Huebl, Elizabeth Jacoby, Michèle Gerber Klein, Margo Langenberg, Princess Astrid Von Liechtenstein, Ambassador John Loeb and Sharon Handler Loeb, Annabella and Alberto Mariaca, Mary McFadden, Dimity Giles and Horacio Milberg, Lara Meiland-Shaw, Malu and Sergio Millerman, Emily Mohr, Haydee Morales (Executive Director, Casita Maria), Carlos Mota, Fred Negem, Ann Nitze, Ann Rapp, Nell Rebowe, Nicky Hilton Rothschild and James Rothschild, Marc Rosen, Cole Rumbough, Allison Sarofim, Sana Sabbagh, Olivia Palermo, Elizabeth Peabody, Natalya Poniatowski, Yolanda Santos, Christine Schwarzman, Martin and Jean Shafiroff, Adrienne and Gianluigi Vittadini, Christine Witker, and Sabrina Wirth.
Casita Maria’s annual benefit is an elegant and fun evening that begins with cocktails, followed by seated dinner, music and dancing by The Bob Hardwick Sound. Past honorees have included outstanding individuals such as Santiago Calatrava, Marcelo Claure, Roberto Cavalli, Patricia Cisneros, John Demsey, France Desmarais, Marta and Placido Domingo, Emilia and J. Pepe Fanjul, Joanna Fisher, Carlos Fuentes, Audrey Gruss, Agnes Gund, Rosaura Henkel, Audrey Hepburn, Carolina Herrera, Julio Iglesias, Hilda Ochoa-Brillembourg, Eddie Palmieri, Elizabeth T. Peabody, Rodman C. Rockefeller, Julia Salvi, Daisy Soros, Hutton Wilkinson and Lynn Wyatt.
Photos: Gonzalo Marroquin /PMC, Annie Watt/ Annie Watt Agency
ABOUT THE CASITA MARIA CENTER FOR ARTS & EDUCATION:
For more than 80 years, Casita Maria Center for Arts and Education has served as a cultural and community anchor for thousands of young people and their families in the Hunts Point section of the South Bronx. Casita has earned a reputation as the first and oldest Latino charity in New York City. The mission of the Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education is to empower youth and their families by creating a culture of learning through high quality social, cultural, and educational opportunities.
Casita Maria was founded in 1934 by Claire and Elizabeth Sullivan, two schoolteachers in the living room of their apartment. Their goal was to give the children of recently arrived Latino families the support they needed to meet the challenges of a new language and a novel school system. The hope was that the young would thrive in their new homeland and lead their parents and their community to full participation in the American Dream. By developing innovative responses and programs as issues arose, relocating to the South Bronx as its community moved around the city, Casita has been able to effectively serve each new generation. By 1961, Casita was offering programs and essential services to thousands of New Yorkers. Even when the Bronx “burned” in the 1970's, Casita remained a safe haven and a gateway to opportunity. Today, Casita Maria is an institution, a driving force for scholastic enrichment through its vital after school and educational programs that focus on the arts and technology.
Dessert Goals: Joy Edition
In preparation of their dessert-only food festival, which began this past weekend and will continue on to the next, Dessert Goals held a preview on Saturday, October 13th, providing a special sneak peek of all the sweetness to come. As New York’s first all-dessert festival, this year’s Dessert Goals: Joy Edition provides a taste of the city’s dessert scene, featuring works from New York’s best experts on everything sweet, from trendy novelties to exotic delicacies to plain simple deliciousness.
In the spacious, waterfront location of Sound River Studios in Long Island City, over twenty unique dessert vendors set up shop amidst a mirage of rainbow colored streamers, balloons, and candy bracelets. Fitting with the theme of Joy Edition, the event was pet-friendly and welcomed pups to join in on the fun. With desserts and puppies, it doesn’t get much better.
The collection of the desserts themselves can only be described as a diverse medley of all the goodies NYC has to offer, spanning from the fresh lightness of Meringueshop’s 100% vegan aquafaba-based dragon fruit gelée meringue treats, to the all-out decadence of Sugar and Water’s “dossants” aka donut croissants aka flaky, buttery, sugar powdered goodness.
Other innovative creations include I CE NY’s rolled ice cream, Stuffed Ice Cream bouquets, and Keki Modern Cake’s purple yam “bouncy” cheesecakes while more classic delights include maple walnut pie from Petee’s Pie Company and traditional Canadian butter tarts made by BTarts. Whether it be creations or originals, Dessert Goals has something for everyone, not excluding those with dietary restrictions; Smoothme’s all natural “nice” cream, made with frozen fruit and coconut cream, is the perfect sweet treat for health-food enthusiasts and vegans (and frankly, those of us who could use some fruit after eating six donuts). Dessert Goals: Joy Edition covers all the bases: desserts you never knew could exist, desserts you’ve always wanted to try, matcha everything, and Instagram-worthy treats almost too beautiful to eat.
Photo credit: Liang Shi / @omgdessertgoals and ratya Jankong / @pj_photographer )
The Golden Heart Awards 2018
EW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 16: (L-R) Anna Wintour, Michael Kors, Deborra-lee Furness, Hugh Jackman and Nathan Lane attend God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
On Tuesday, October 16th, God’s Love We Deliver (GLWD), in collaboration with celebrated designer Michael Kors, hosted their 2018 Golden Heart Awards. The dinner is hosted each year to thank honorees for their activism, and bring together an audience of individuals who share a passion for helping others as well as the New York community. This year marks the GLWD’s 12th hosting of the event, as well as their return to the downtowns dreamy Spring Studio venue.
Donna Karan and Iman attends God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
Michael Kors and Naomi Watts attend God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
The evening kicked off with a cocktail hour featuring iconic New York restaurants, each of which offered guests a taste of their menu staples. The restaurants included Gramercy Tavern, Murray’s Cheese Bar, Katz’s Deli, Empellón, Russ & Daughters and Antica Pesa.
Hugh Jackman performs onstage at God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
Priyanka Chopra and Michael Kors attend God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
Kors was all smiles as he walked the carpet with honorary co-chair and close friend, Anna Wintour. The pair kept busy by greeting other guests as they arrived. The excitement in the room was intense and crowds gathered to see who was going into come in through the doors. Dynamic duo, Iman and Donna Karen took to the carpet arm-in-arm. Lynda Carter and Blaine Trump playfully showcased their friendship laughing and smiling before the cameras. Ashley Graham, Priyanka Chopra, Neil Patrick Harris, Naomi Watts, Christian Siriano, and more made their way in front of the cameras before joining the rest of the guests upstairs for dinner and the ceremony.
Neil Patrick Harris speaks at God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
Stefano Tonchi and Lynda Carter attend God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Nicholas Hunt/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
The Michael Kors Award for Outstanding Community Service was presented to actor and philanthropist, Hugh Jackman. When accepting his award, Jackman belted out the song “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning” and encouraged the crowd into joining him. In the audience to support the emotional acceptance speech was his wife, Debrroa-Lee Furness. The Golden Heart Award for Lifetime Achievement was presented to playwright and screenwriter, Tony Kushner for his recognizable years of amazing work. Lastly, the Golden Heart Award for Outstanding Volunteerism went to auctioneer and philanthropist, Jamie Niven.
Hugh Jackman and Naomi Watts attends God's Love We Deliver, Golden Heart Awards at Spring Studios on October 16, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Michael Kors)
GLWD is a charitable organization that delivers health-driven and balanced meals to those living with AIDs/HIV and serious illnesses within the metropolitan area. Kors, a born and bred New Yorker himself, works endlessly to support the city in which he cares for so much. The close partnership between GLWD and Kors acts as a driving force to spread awareness for the current crisis of hunger and illness. The Golden Heart Awards are an important night in continuing the conversation and further facilitating change for this community.
All photos Getty Images for Michael Kors
The Lang Lang International Music Foundation Gala
The Lang Lang International Music Foundation (LLIMF) raised more than 1.6 million dollars at their 10th Anniversary Gala Concert Dinner in New York City on Wednesday, October 10th, funding the organization's efforts to educate, inspire, and motivate the next generation of music lovers and performers.
The world-renowned pianist and creator of the foundation, Lang Lang, played led a special performance featuring the foundation’s Young Scholars.
"I really feel that this is a good beginning. I think the next ten years will be even easier to build up," said Lang Lang. "We believe that if music just disappears from children's fundamental studies, that would be the most tragic thing...We have to inspire kids to learn music.
The gala was hosted by Golden Globe-winning actor Alec Baldwin. Baldwin, along with auctioneer George McNeely, led the foundation's 'call for cash,' drawing a flurry of donations. The evening also included special performances by three-time Grammy Award winner Wyclef Jean, twelve-time Grammy Award nominee Ledisi, and internationally acclaimed tenor Roberto Alagna.The Foundation presented a special award to Joan and Irwin Jacobs, who were honored for their contributions to classical arts.
The event was opened with a speech by Gala Chair John Paulson, who spoke about how musicians add richness to everyone's lives.
And Sandy Weill, Chairman of the Board of Directors at LLIMF, presented a special award to Joan and Irwin Jacobs, who were honored for their contributions to classical arts. In ten years, LLIMF has successfully developed music education programs benefiting children across the world including Keys of Inspiration™, 101 Pianists™, Young Scholars™ and Play It Forward™.
Keys of Inspiration™ (KOI), one of the most influential programs of the foundation, weaves rigorous, keyboard-centric musical instruction into the mandatory curriculum of selected Title 1 public schools–integrating group piano classes for grades 2-5, twice a week.
KOI started in 2013 with only two schools and 300 students. As of September 2018, it has 40 schools enrolled in the program from across the country, reaching over 16,000 students.
“Utilizing a strategic expansion plan, KOI will reach 30,000 students in 80 schools by 2020”, says chief Executive Officer of LLIMF, Leszek Barwinski-Brown.
Photo - Krista Kennell /PMC
Global Lyme Alliance Gala
The Global Lyme Alliance (GLA), the leading 501(c)(3) dedicated to conquering Lyme and other tick-borne diseases through research, education and awareness, announced that it raised over $2 million dollars at its fourth annual New York City Gala at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City.
The money raised at the event will support GLA’s mission to advance scientific research leading to a reliable diagnostic test, improved treatment options, and ultimately, find a cure for Lyme and other tick-borne disease. Ramona Singer and Erin Walker were honored at the gala while the audience was treated to a show-stopping performance by Tony Award-winning Broadway and television star Sutton Foster.
The gala experience was produced by co-chair and celebrated event producer Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events, who donated his event planning and design services towards the Global Lyme Alliance’s New York Gala for the fourth consecutive year. Showcasing his unique commitment to philanthropic causes, the spectacular and one-of-a-kind gala was an evening to remember for invited celebrities, business leaders, and top scientists alike.
The affair was attended by more than 700 supporters at Cipriani 42nd Street and recognized Ramona Singer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and star of Bravo TV’s “Real Housewives of New York City,” and Erin Walker, mother, equestrian, business owner, and wife of 2016 PGA Championship winner Jimmy Walker. Ramona has seen the devastating impact of Lyme disease first-hand through close family members and friends, and both Erin and her husband Jimmy are currently battling the disease. Lori Stokes, co-anchor of FOX 5 Good Day New York, hosted the event.
Erin and Ramona both addressed the crowd in emotional testimonies of their experiences with Lyme and their dedication to raising awareness for finding a cure for this insidious disease. Jimmy Walker spoke to the crowd by way of video, thanking GLA and congratulating Erin. Global superstar Avril Lavigne recorded a special video message for the crowd, which was shown, announcing that she has officially accepted the invitation to join GLA’s Board of Directors, as well as details of the new strategic partnership between The Avril Lavigne Foundation and GLA. Avril’s new single, “Head Above Water,” is about her personal struggle with Lyme disease.
Celebrity event planner Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events donated the design and décor for the sophisticated celebration. A New York City skyline projection scaling the wall of Cipriani 42nd Street illuminated the room in midnight purple. Each table was set with gold brass teardrop lamps or glass candle centerpieces alongside small potted foliage, and atop glittering gold or black tablecloths. The awe-inspiring gala experience embodied the signature stylings of A Larry Party™, perfectly balancing the highs with the lows and the formal with the relaxed to empathize significant moments. Other evening highlights included a surprise performance, by the Big Apple Circus and a menu inspired by Drew Nieporent of Myriad Restaurant Group, with sushi courtesy of Nobu.
Past GLA Gala honoree Yolanda Hadid spoke to guests about her Lyme journey and introduced a short video that illustrates the impact Lyme can have on one’s entire family. The ceremony ended with a very special performance by Tony Award-winning actress and recording artist, Sutton Foster.
Photo Credit: Ben Gabbe/ Slaven Vlasic for Getty Images/Global Lyme Alliance
About Global Lyme Alliance
Global Lyme Alliance (GLA) is the leading 501(c)(3) dedicated to conquering Lyme disease through research, education and awareness. GLA has gained national prominence for funding the most urgent and promising research in the field, while expanding education and awareness programs for the general public and physicians. To learn more about GLA’s unrivaled focus on the science of Lyme, check out its inaugural research report here or visit its website at www.globallymealliance.org
About Lawrence Scott Events
Lawrence Scott Gottesman brings unparalleled creativity and imagination to his signature special events. A native New Yorker, Larry started his career in catering before opening one of Long Island’s most successful restaurants, Larry and The Redhead. In 1989, he established Lawrence Scott Events and instantly gained a reputation for his exceptional, one-of-a-kind celebrations. “From the ridiculous to the sublime”, A Larry Party™ brings families and friends together for life’s most memorable moments and milestones. While known for his non-stop innovation and ahead-of-the-trends approach, Larry is equally known for his philanthropic efforts. Larry’s commitment to community has spanned decades of support for charitable causes including, Make-A-Wish®, The Feinstein Institute of Medical Research, Live Out loud, Forward Face, City of Hope, and MS, to name a few. Larry’s reputation is that of a generous and charismatic man who considers his employees “family” and treats his clients with adoration and respect. They return to him time and again to celebrate all of life’s important occasions knowing their party will be like no other — and one that they… "will NEVER, EVER forget!"
Carlos Souza Hosted Casita Maria Kick Off
Carlos Souza was the guest of honor at a champagne reception last week at the Madison Avenue Valentino store celebrating both Casita Maria's upcoming Fiesta 2018 Benefit and his new book COMPORTA BLIST, published by Assouline.
Guests included Martha Bograd, Jennifer Creel, Amy Fine Collins, Denise DeLuca, Jackie Weld Drake, Joanna Fisher, Sissi Fleitas, Susan Gutfreund, Mark Gilbertson, Elizabeth Jacoby, Ann Dexter-Jones, Eleanora Kennedy, Margo Langenberg, Mercedes Levin, Tara Milnes, Dimity Giles de Milberg, Horacio Milberg, Elizabeth Peabody, Ben Rodriguez-Cubenas, Jean Shafiroff Alexandra Seegers, Mary Snow, Sabrina Wirth-Sokolik, Benny Tabatabai, Eglantina Zingg, and Alicia Lubowski-Jahn.
Fiesta 2018 will honor Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Mary Snow, and Carlos Souza at The Plaza Hotel on October 16. The Dinner Chairmen are Jacqueline Weld Drake, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, and Carlos Mota. This year's Honorary Chairs are Elizabeth Peabody, Christine Schwarzman, and Lynn Wyatt.
Tickets are still avialable: https://www.casitamaria.org/events/fiesta
Casita Maria Center for Arts & Education offers high quality, innovative in and after school arts programming to over 1,000 students daily in their state of the art facility in the South Bronx. Casita's enriching programs produce engaged, well-rounded individuals, who go on to fulfill their dreams. Attached, please find the invitation.
Photos Credit: Owen Hoffmann /PMC
RSVP at Arlo
New York based producers Jason Jude Hill and Daniel Sears of GrumpyFilms & Productions have created something special with RSVP at Arlo. This really sexy variety party, RSVP at Arlo, is paving the way for out-of-the-box variety shows and intimate entertainment experiences in New York City. RSVP at Arlo shows feature talent spanning an array of entertainment including music, dance, comedy, burlesque, magic, and more. The September shows were hosted by cabaret and variety show host Dale Seever with jazz band Irini Res & The Jazz Mix, burlesque performer Mandarine Moon-Fly, comedian Shalewa Sharpe, flexn dancer Kellz Zada and X Plus One, an improvised 40s scifi radio show. It’s a fast-paced, immersive show that take place in a sophisticated den-like studio at the high-end Arlo NoMad hotel in NYC - a venue which perfectly combines a chic, welcoming atmosphere with design-forward spaces for a one-of-a-kind experience that makes audience members a part of the party.
RSVP at Arlo is the hottest new event designed to switch up the typical night out with a variety of curated artists and acts. It’s a fast-paced show that take place in a sophisticated den-like studio - a perfect first date, a fun evening out with friends, or a unique event to celebrate a birthday at. Arlo NoMad naturally lends itself to creating an intimate, immersive experience for the audience through a series of performances by intriguing artists. Past performers include: Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Chaney Sims, the musical comedy duo Reformed Whores, ventriloquist Carla Rhodes, comedians Katie Hartman and Khalid Rahmaan, tap buskers Mediocre Flow, trans performer Becca Blackwell, and downtown reggae rocker Felice Rosser. As an added bonus, drink specials are available throughout the show at BARlo, serving craft cocktails in a cozy setting, and RSVP ticket holders receive 15% off pre or post show dinner at Arlo NoMad’s restaurant, MASSONI. In addition, RSVP will be releasing six $5 cushioned floor seats which make up the front row of the venue. Ticket buyers will have the option to upgrade their seats for free if capacity allows and will be notified regarding their upgrade before showtime. Games and prizes are awarded during a quick break.
I had never been to anything like RSVP at Arlo. The last time I saw a variety show was in high school, and this was so much different and so much better. It was all very chic and intimate, the perfect stop during a night out in New York City. The October shows will be hosted by comedian and actress Dara Jemmott with cellist Malcolm Parson, spoken word performers Kristine Haurna & Jen Goma, married Jewish-Palestinian comedians Jess Salomon and Eman El-Husseini, Burlesque dancer Twinky Boots, and singer/songwriter Joshua Bartholomew. If you want the chance to see some real talent and have a good laugh while in a venue that makes you feel super cool, purchase tickets for $5-35 (includes a cocktail!) here for Oct 19th at 7:30pm,Oct 19th at 10pm,Oct 20th at 7:30pm,Oct 20th at 10pm.
Photos courtesy of RSVP