Song E Napule West Village

It’s said that the best Italian cuisine is made from the heart. At Song E Napule in the West Village, owner Ciro Iovine takes the heart of Italy and brings it to every dish he makes. Song E Napule is a small shop featuring a brick oven and eclectic decor in the form of a shrine to SSC Napoli and Diego Maradona. This atmosphere paired with Ciro’s vibrant energy, upbeat music, and efficient service offers the promise of a wonderful meal.  Upon entering one is immediately treated like family and is treated to a delicious meal that any Italian grandmother would approve of. 

We had the privilege of enjoying some of the classic dishes from the menu at Song E Napule, as well as some of the specials. We were served a personal size Margherita pizza that was cooked to perfection with a fluffy outer crust and a thin inner crust with fresh mozzarella di bufala, tomatoes, and basil. The dishes that followed included Parmigiana di Melanzane, an elevated take on eggplant parm, and Polpette al Sugo, meatballs that were tender and spectacularly flavorful. Other notable plates were Paccheri alla Genovese, a traditional dish of homemade Jumbo rigatoni with a slow cooked ragu and Panuozzi made with fresh stracciatella, arugula, and tomatoes. We were also treated to one of the specials, a plate of oversize gnocchi stuffed with Cacio e Pepe. Each bite was filled with flavor, care, and Ciro’s love for his culture and his cooking. 

The taste and quality of the cuisine at Song E Napule finds its roots in Ciro’s life story. He began working in a pizzeria in Naples when he was 13 and soon realized that he would make it his mission to export not just pizza but the whole Neapolitan culture around the globe. He traveled and cooked his way across Europe and the Cayman Islands, eventually making his way to New York City for a vacation and falling in love with the city, finding a job the very next day. 2 years later, Song E Napule was opened on 146 W Houston Street with the help of Ciro’s wife Austria and his brother Giovanni. 

Family finds itself at the source of Ciro’s cuisine, but also his business. As wait staff moved between tables and chatted with regulars, it was clear that the exceptional service was due in part to the culture of the employees being respected and treated as members of the Song E Napule family. This love was extended to customers, who were always treated with a booming “Ciao, buona sera”, and this geniality was certainly ingrained in each dish we had the pleasure of tasting. When asked if there was anything he could say about his restaurant, Ciro responded that he wants to treat everyone like they are a part of his famiglia, and he hopes that every customer has that experience. Whether it’s from the food, the service, or the convivial atmosphere it is definitely the case that coming to eat at Song E Napule feels like coming home to family - and we will certainly be returning. 

NYCC Flamenco Nights

Barbara Brock, Isabella Peixoto, Cynthia Wood, Barbara Harrison, Ronald Braso

The New York Center for Children (NYCC) held their Flamenco Nights celebration on Tuesday, August 24, 2021, at Ventanas at the Modern in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Hosted by Catherine Kassenoff, Lauren Vernon and Amy Bluestone, the event celebrated their caregivers after a tumultuous year. Guests enjoyed tropical cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music and dancing under the stars, in Flamenco inspired style.

For the past 26 years, NYCC has provided free, bilingual, trauma-focused, comprehensive evaluation and therapy services to victims of child abuse and their families, for as long as their healing requires.

Amy Bluestone, Lauren Vernon, Catherine Kassenoff

In addition, NYCC provide free tutoring, mentoring and extracurricular events. The Center’s services are offered in a child-friendly and welcoming environment. NYCC serves children from all five boroughs of New York City.

Along the walls of the venue was a wall of gold stars which was created for the caregivers, to remind them that they are the bright shinning stars for the kids and families they serve. On these gold stars, were inspiring comments directly from the kids and families thanking the caregivers for the amazing job they have done and continue to do.

NYCC Star Parent Child Note

Lauren Vernon, Leda Nussbaum, Maribel Lieberman

Ventanas, the American-Asian-Cuban restaurant by Restaurateur Alexander Duran of Son Cubano and culinary titan Chef David Burke, was the perfect setting for the magical evening, with its outdoor patio overlooking the iconic George Washington Bridge. The mood for the Flamenco Nights setting was in full swing as the DJ played Latin music throughout the evening. Guests were dancing the night away as well as being dazzled by a special performance by Gabriella Rodriguez. The event, while bringing recognition to the caregivers, also raised $22,000 towards NYCC's service to help children heal from abuse.

Gabriella Rodriguez

Notable attendees included: Board members Amy Bluestone, Lauren Vernon, Catherine Kassenoff, and Barbara Harrison; NYCC Board President Christine Rales, Leda Nussbaum, Maribel Lieberman, Barbara Brock, Isabella Peixoto, Cynthia Wood, Alexandra Corriea, Ronald Braso, Peter Bencivenga, Alisa Isenberg, Diane Haza, Myrna Bluestone; and NYCC therapists Jennifer Grubman, Sarah McNamara, Karina Van Brunt, Rebecca Jacobs and Mariel Ramirez.

 Photo credit Gabe Collazo Photography

About The New York Center for Children (NYCC):

Founded in 1995 with the support of the late Broadway producer Marty Richards and philanthropist Georgette Mosbacher, The New York Center for Children (NYCC) is a child-friendly Center, providing free, comprehensive evaluation and therapy services to victims of child abuse and their families. NYCC also offers professional training on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of child abuse. All of the programs and services to children and families at NYCC are completely free of charge. NYCC is a not-for-profit organization that relies on donations to cover the costs of operations. NYCC serves all families, including those without insurance. In addition to evaluation and treatment, the children at NYCC also benefit from tutoring, mentoring and extracurricular events. NYCC serves children from all five boroughs of New York City. The child-friendly space is located at 333 East 70th Street, on Manhattan's Upper East Side.

Start Your Day Off With the Most Important Meal of the Day at These NYC Spots

You know what they say — “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day!” But honestly, is there really a specific time for breakfast anymore? After this past year, breakfast should be enjoyed anytime your heart and tummy desires. In fact, one of my favorite treats was breakfast for dinner growing up.

These three New York City spots will help you start your day off, indulge mid-day or even have breakfast late at night after some fun around town.

Egg Shop has reinvented the egg and proved that an egg can be the star of any dish at their Nolita (151 Elizabeth St.)  and Williamsburg (138 N 8th St.) locations. On the sandwich end, Egg Shop offers the Egg Shop B.E.C. with broken yolk, Vermont white cheddar, pepper bacon, tomato jam, and pickled jalapeno on a brioche roll. Or chow down on their cruisers like the Brisket Chilaquiles made with slow-cooked brisket, over easy, fried tortilla, jack cheese, salsa roja, cotija, sour cream, jalapeno, pickled onion, and cilantro. Wash it all down with a refreshing Breakfast Mule and the day is yours. Nolita is open Friday 9am - 3pm & Saturday - Sunday 9am - 4pm and the Williamsburg location is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 9am - 3pm & Saturday - Saturday 9am - 4pm.   

Hole in the Wall serves brunch favorites at their FiDi (15 Cliff St.), Murray Hill (626 1st Avenue), Flatiron at Hotel Henri (37 W 24th St.) and Williamsburg (292 Bedford Avenue) locations. Signature dishes from Executive Chef Brent Hudson range from sweet to savory for any mood. The menu includes his Wagon Wheel Waffles with vanilla whipped cream cheese, strawberry jam, torched marshmallow and Nutella sauce, and a Pulled Pork Benedict featuring 12-hour slow-braised pork, poached eggs, burnt butter hollandaise and beet relish on sourdough. Sip on a Jalapeno Bloody Mary, a Blood Orange Negroni, an Aperol Spritz or a Mimosa anytime of day. Brunch at FiDi is available Friday - Sunday 9am - 5pm, Murray Hill: Wednesday - Sunday 9am - 5pm, Flatiron: Monday - Friday 10am - 4:30pm and Sat - Sun 9am - 4:30pm and Williamsburg: Monday - Sunday 9am - 4:30pm

Carnegie Diner & Cafe (205 W. 57th St.) in the heart of Midtown features an extensive all-day breakfast menu, which includes a Lobster Benedict, Avocado Toast, a dozen types of pancakes, decadent waffles, crepes and French Toast in addition to bagels, croissants and muffins. Enjoy a bottomless cup of coffee for $3.50 or unlimited mimosas for $19.95 per person. The diner is open every day from 7am - 10pm.

Philomena's in East Williamsburg

Tucked away in the heart of Williamsburg, new cocktail bar Philomena’s has the upscale energy of a speakeasy with a modern twist. Founded by brothers Kyle and Sean O’Brien, the contemporary bar serves as an oasis to the neighborhood with shareable bites, cocktails, beer, and wine.

Perfect for date night, a pregame cocktail, or a solo drink, the cocktail menu is unique for its focus on carved and infused ice cubes. As the ice cubes melt, the flavor palette of each drink transforms to create an extended tasting experience. Felix (mezcal, expressed orange, and a cucumber-lime-tajin ice cube), Philomena (prosecco, watermelon rose ice cube), and Aileen (tequila blanco, guava, lime, cointreau, habanero ice cube) were notably delicious from beginning to end. The cocktails paired seamlessly with toasted semolina pita and a trio of dips including hummus, bottarga onion dip, and a luscious duck liver mousse that would rival any French brasserie. 

The bar pays homage to O’Brien’s Great Aunt Philomena, named after the patron saint of youth. Known for elegant dinner parties and her gracious and lively spirit as the life of the party, Philomena’s will embody this inspiration by providing a space for locals and visitors alike to come together for communal bites and cocktails in celebration of life, love, and eternal youth. 

American Brass in Long Island City

Looking for a new relaxed upscale dinner destination on the waterfront? American Brass in Long Island City has the perfect set-up for both summer weather and colder days with fairy-lit outdoor seating facing the waterfront views of Manhattan and Gantry State Park, as well as a chic and spacious indoor dining setting. 

The restaurant opened a month before the Pandemic hit NYC and is now looking to the future with sustainable practices including a beer list from locally sourced Long Island City breweries and produce from New York Farms filling the pantry.

Executive Chef Kevin McGinley, former chef of Michelin Star restaurant Bátard, presents a delicious Dinner menu as well as Brunch and Mid-Day menus on the weekends. 

Endless Summer cocktails, and the Sullivan cocktail.

Appetizers: Crispy Pork Belly (preserved apricot, pickled mustard seeds, chicharron) and Charred Carrot Salad (hazelnuts, fried halloumi, pickled peaches), who knew carrots could taste this delicious!

Entree: Long Island Duck (polenta, hakurai turnips, fig-pepper jam)

Entree: Atlantic Cod (sweet corn, guajillo Chile, black trumpet mushroom) wonderful blend of sweet and savoury

Desserts: Peaches and Cream (caramelized peaches, almond cream, praline) Chocolate Crepe Torte (Guanaja Chantilly, sour cherry compote, mocha crunch) brilliant light dessert with complimenting sweet and sour

With the breathtaking views paired with the grandiose menu, we would not be surprised to see people from all over the city to come experience this place.

For more information on menus and reservations, check out the website here.

Seltzerland NYC 2021

Cannonball Productions brought their nationally-touring hard seltzer festival like no other, called Seltzerland to Brooklyn this past Saturday. As a fan of fizz drinks, this was a can’t miss event, and it did not disappoint.

Guests were given a vendor card and sipped the best seltzers around from iconic national brands to beloved local companies including White Claw, Mike's Hard Lemonade Seltzer, Vizzy, Playamar (Jose Cuervo Seltzer), Mamitas, Lunar, 99 Vodka, Cool Cat and so many more!

Guests were also able to try bites from Beyond Meat and Chef & Owner of Fornino Michael Ayoub brought delicious folded Neapolitan pizzas. Attendees also walked away with tons of Seltzer swag while busting out the ‘gram for epic photoshoots.

The next city Seltzerland is traveling to is Columbus, OH, and moving back outdoors for a fun day on the green.

Images courtesy of Cannonball Productions

"Comeback" - A Seaport Artois Event

Ask New Yorkers for their favorite slice and you’re bound to get at least 10 different answers. Some swear by Joe’s, others by the 99 cent, and still others by Juliana’s. The truth is New Yorkers just love pizza—which is why, in celebration of NYC’s reopening, Stella Artois is partnering up with South Sea Seaport over the course of the summer to offer an array of exclusive, one of a kind pizzas from a few of the best kitchens in town. 

A six part event series, Seaport Artois’s “Comeback” night, the fifth in its lineup, took place at Pier 16 in full view of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Guests were escorted through a photo-ready lounge area, complete with complimentary bottles of special edition Stella Artois, before heading over to the patio-like dining area, where they were greeted with the first slice of the night: a summery corn, pesto, and fontina slice by Barbuto’s chef Johnathan Waxman. Made with the freshest of ingredients, this slice was my favorite out of the three pizza interpretations—unique and flavorful, I wished out loud more than once that Barbuto would reopen just to add it to their everyday menu.

For our second slice of the night, my guest and I polished off an anchovy flatbread from La Vara in Brooklyn. With heaps of cheese and perfectly salted anchovies, this pizza interpretation was the perfect precursor to our third slice: a clam laden flatbread with oregano, chili flakes, and parsley. Both slices were delicious and just the right amount of bread to cheese to topping ratio—no easy thing, but, as every New Yorker knows, a surefire way to get a slice on a personal pizza favorites list.

So if you’re craving a slice that’s slightly off the grid, be sure to stop by at Seaport Artois’ final event of the season on August 19th. Aptly named “New,” this event will feature pizza from a brand new city spot that’s been raved about, as well as the chance for guests reconnect with friends, family and the city they’ve missed.

Secure your spot at Seaport Artois at https://www.stellaartois.com/SeaportArtois and follow them on their instagram, @stellaartoisusa. 100% of the proceeds from this even will benefit New York restaurants and the James Beard Foundation.

Jungle Summer

Missed your trip to Costa Rica this year? The city’s got you covered. Standing out among the many pop-up restaurants taking over town this August is Jungle Summer, a new, limited-time concept at The Garret Cocterleria that feels like a breath of fresh, tropical air. 

Photo Credits: Front Of House

The first thing you’ll notice walking into Jungle Summer is just how lush everything is. Inspired by the tropical rainforests of South and Central America, the popup is decked out with a floor-to-ceiling plant installation designed by Nick Amoruso of GREENCITYdesign—perfect for photos. Adding to the ambiance is the decor: between the woven bamboo furniture, rattan lighting, and dried palm leaves it’s easy to feel as if you’re having a night out on the beaches of the DR rather than NYC—a definite plus in our book.

Photo Credits: Front of House

But what really sets Jungle Summer apart from other pop-ups this year is its cocktail menu. From the Coconut Knuckleball (toasted coconut, black pepper vodka, apricot, yellow watermelon) to the Tamarind Tambourine (saffron, pineapple, tamarind, mezcal, gin, guava), even the most liquor averse of your group will find something they’ll want more than just a sip of. Jungle Summer also has some top notch appetizers on the menu: both the Dragon Fruit & Mango Ceviche (dragon fruit, mango, coconut milk, yuzu, jalapeño, red onion, amaranth) and the Spicy Tuna Tartare (tuna, housemade spicy mayo, rice crackers, scallions, furikake) were to die for, and my guest and I actually ended up ordering one more of each before leaving for the night—trust us, that’s how good it was.

Photo Credits: Front of House

The Dragonfruit Ceviche
Photo Credits: Front of House

So if you’re craving a little bit of the jungle before the fall hits, be sure to stop by Jungle Summer. The popup is open Monday-Friday from 5pm-late, Saturday and Sunday from 1pm-late, and has DJs spinning Thursday-Saturday nights. Book your ticket to paradise via Resy today.

Three Spots in New York City to Continue Your Oyster Journey

National Oyster Day may only be once a year but there’s never a bad time to shuck it. Below are three of the top Oyster spots in the city where the Oysters are fresh for the slurping.

Fish Cheeks - 55 Bond Street

When: Daily, from 12pm - 3:15pm and 5pm - 6pm. 

The Deal: $9/half dozen and $18/dozen

Come hungry and bring friends to Fish Cheeks in NoHo serving contemporary Thai food with a focus on seafood and a daily happy hour filled with delicious oysters. More information can be found by visiting, https://www.fishcheeksnyc.com

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Follia (179 3rd Avenue)

When:  During Happy Hour - Monday - Friday 3:30pm - 5pm

The Deal: $1 oysters are offered every weekday during happy hour

Check out this Italian mainstay in Gramercy, which offers $1 oysters every weekday. More information can be found at https://www.follianyc.com/

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Bar Marseille - 190 Beach 69th Street

When: Every Wednesday 5pm - 6:30pm

The Deal: $1 Oyster Happy Hour

Dine inside or out and indulge in fresh oysters for $1 on Wednesdays during Happy Hour at Bar Marseille. And don't skip on their grilled oysters, which are out of this world. More information can be found by visiting, https://www.barmarseille.com 

Mochidoki Soho

What do you get when you put mochi and ice cream together? Just the most hyped about dessert to ever hit the NYC market—Mochi Ice Cream! Sweet, pillowy, and perfectly bite-sized, Mochi Ice Cream is the ultimate fusion dessert, and there’s no better place to get it in NYC than at Mochidoki’s flagship brick and mortar on 176 Spring Street.

Founded in 2015 by mochi enthusiasts Ken Gordon and Christopher Wong, Mochidoki is known for its whimsical yet refined take on Japanese desserts. Using only thoughtfully sourced, premium ingredients, the shop cranks out a multitude of imaginative flavors, including Black Honey Walnut with kuromitsu (Japanese molasses), Salted Caramel with cracked caramel candy, and the sweet yet savory Apple Miso Caramel. Already tried those? Mochidoki’s team of culinary advisors is always crafting winning combinations, including the new (and highly recommended) Pandan Pistachio. Tropical and floral, this flavor features buttery roasted pistachios and a hint of toasted vanilla for a bite of creamy bliss that makes the trek to Soho worth it all by itself (although I’m also a big fan of their strawberry and black sesame).

The New Pandan Pistachio Flavor
Photo Credits: Mochidoki

But if you’re not feeling the trip to Soho these days, or maybe just live too far away, you’ll be happy to know that Mochidoki also offers nationwide shipping on their website! Delivered with dry ice to keep it fresh, ordering your treats online is a sure way to get your mochi ice cream fix. Still in the city but want to experience Mochidoki on a night out? Both Nobu and Tao offer Mochidoki flavors, meaning you can end your decadent dinner in a setting as luxe as the dessert itself—while experiencing the best of Asian fusion that NYC has to offer.

Shop Mochidoki on their site, https://mochidoki.com/, or keep up with new flavors on their instagram, @mochi_doki. 

Greenwich Polo Club: East Coast Gold Cup Final

On Sunday 25 July, polo team Altaris reigned victorious as the winners of the East Coast Gold Cup final at the Greenwich Polo Club. Teams Altaris and Ellipse came face to face for an exciting final match in which the score remained neck-to-neck, concluding with an extra-time chukka settling the final score 12-11 to Altaris.

Photo credits to Greenwich Polo Club

This match marked the end of the club’s June and July East Coast High Goal series, but for those of you looking for a fun and relaxed escape from the city to the wonderful Connecticut backcountry, matches will resume at the Greenwich Polo Club starting with the East Coast Open on Sunday, August 29, 2021.

Photo credits to Greenwich Polo Club

Photo credits to Greenwich Polo Club

Greenwich Polo club hosts many prestigious polo tournaments, including being the club of choice in 2013 for Prince Harry to host the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup. The tournaments at Greenwich Polo Club are attended by thousands of spectators from New York City, Fairfield and Westchester counties enjoying a lovely day out with friends and family. In addition to the thrilling athleticism of both the ponies and expert riders, also on offer at the Gold Cup Final last Sunday were Polo themed cocktails, delicious food truck vendors for lunch and snacks, and a celebratory asada cookout dinner after the match. 

For more information about the Greenwich Polo Club schedule and tickets visit the website here!

7 Spots Around Town to Celebrate NYC Restaurant Week

NYC Restaurant Week returns with a bang. As New York City’s supreme dining scene reopens, the opportunity to celebrate eating out is greater than ever. Travelers and locals look forward to this occasion every year because it’s a great opportunity to try new cuisines at premium restaurants at reasonable prices. Running from July 19- August 22nd you can enjoy lunch and dinner options (entrée + one side) for $21 or $39, plus Signature Dining Experiences (three courses or more) for $125. Below are some of the great options available.

If you want to splurge on NYC Restaurant Week's new $125 tasting option:

Kintsugi

Kintsugi (28 Grand Street) applies the Edo-style sushi techniques of marination, aging, and smoking to bring out the umami flavors from seafood sourced all around the world. Sourcing and presenting the season’s best offerings directly to your plate, the style and execution allows for the purity of the ingredients to come forth. During NYC Restaurant Week, Kintsugi will offer a signature dining experience, which includes 13 Selected Classic and Seasonal Nigiri Sushi, Chef’s Choice Handroll, Gourmet Miso Soup, Seasonal Monaka Ice Cream, and Dessert Beverage all for $125. More information can be found at https://www.kintsuginyc.com 

Delicious Options in Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn:

Fish Cheeks

Fish Cheeks (55 Bond St) co-chefs and brothers Chat and Ohm Suansilphong, whose parents owned a restaurant in Thailand, prepare Thai family-style dishes at varying levels of spiciness; standouts include coconut crab curry and steamed whole fish with aromatic Thai herbs. Non-seafood items like grilled pork cheeks with jaew sauce and potent cocktails are also exemplary. During NYC Restaurant Week, Fish Cheeks will offer a $39 lunch and dinner special.

Ten Hope

Ten Hope

Ten Hope (10 Hope St) offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu at this Williamsburg bar-restaurant, so you can get meze plate or shakshuka flatbread alongside signatures like the Ten Hope Kofta burger and bacon or egg and cheese sandwiches for brunch. The outdoor garden makes for a relaxed setting to eat and drink at. During NYC Restaurant Week, Ten Hope will offer a $39 dinner special.

SkorpiosNYC

Skorpios (5 E 54th St) brings the isle of Rhodes to Midtown. Traditional Greek cuisine is the focus: appetizers like tzatziki and hummus, spanakopita, ouzo-flamed halloumi cheese and fried calamari, and mains like squid-ink pasta, steak and grilled fish. Indoor waterfalls and a sand art wall add to the feel of a Mediterranean getaway. During NYC Restaurant Week, Skorpios will offer a week of on site $21 lunch specials, $39 dinners, and a $39 Sunday brunch. Takeout is also available.

Lamia’s Fish Market

Lamia’s Fish Market (47 Avenue B) over-the-top design feels like part sea grotto, part submarine and part yacht. For solo diners or casual dates, the raw bar is the place to be for fresh-shucked oysters and ceviche. The multilevel East Village restaurant is owned by Lamia Funti. Ambitious and creative, it’s geared for perfect nights on the town. During NYC Restaurant Week, Lamia’s Fish Market will offer a $39 dinner for on site and takeout.

Lolo’s Seafood Shack

Lolo’s Seafood Shack (303 W 116th St) in Harlem takes its name from being locally owned, and locally operated. Owned by Guyanese chef Raymond Mohan and partner Leticia Skai Young Mohan, Lolo’s menu features seafood favorites that might transport you to a beach in the Caribbean or the coastal waters of Cape Cod. With a décor of ocean blues, sunny yellows, picnic benches, and a drink menu driven by the signature rum punch, Lolo’s bring an island-style vibe to the bustling streets of Harlem. During NYC Restaurant Week, Lolo’s Seafood Shack will offer a $21 lunch special and $39 dinner special.

Bar Marseille

Bar Marseille (190 Beach 69th St) in the Rockaways is located near the ocean making it the perfect summer dining destination. This French Riviera style restaurant features an extensive wine list providing pairings for various dishes. During NYC Restaurant Week, Bar Marseille will offer a prix fixe choice between a main course and side with a Sommelier wine pick all for $39. 

SWCRF Annual Hamptons Happening

With the world returning to some sort of regularity, more than 300 guests gathered in Hamptons for a one of a kind event. The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation’s (SWCRF) was proud to hold the return of the one of the biggest charity events of the summer, The Hamptons Happening! The 17th annual event was a celebration of health and wellness, and the culmination of The Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve with SWCRF partner, Walk with a Doc. Event committee member Maria Fishel and Kenneth Fishel hosted the ticketed fundraiser on their estate in Bridgehampton. The event raised more than $400,000 towards cancer research.

This year’s honorees included HUGO BOSS, Fashion Inc represented by Rodolfo Esparza III; Dr. Kenneth Mark, Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Dermatology Expert; Natalie Cohen Gould, Co-founder of Come Back Cycle, Dir. of Wholesale, FP Movement; and Chef and Restaurateur David Burke, David Burke Hospitality Management. The event was co-chaired by Mark D. Friedman of Brown Harris Stevens, Jessica Mackin of James Lane Post, and Randi Schatz. SWCRF founder Samuel Waxman MD, along with event committee members Christine Arlotta, Antonella Bertello, Erica Fineberg, Maria Fishel, Jacqueline Frank, Norah Lawlor, Jamie Koff, Christine Prydatko, Suzanne Sabet, and Michael Snell were in attendance.

Jonny Nierenberg, Tori Chanenchuk, Ali Nierenberg, Elin Nierenberg, Michael Nierenberg

Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Maria Fishel, Kenneth Fishel, Bradley Fishel

Notable attendees included: Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Maria Fishel, Kenneth Fishel, Bradley Fishel, Rodolfo Esparza III, Dr. Kenneth Mark, Chef David Burke, Natalie Cohen Gould, Jamie Koff, Mark D. Friedman, Chris Wragge, Harry Carson, Ramona Singer, Jean Shafiroff, Randi Schatz, Ann Liguori, William T. Sullivan, Cesar Ricci, Michael Nierenberg, Elin Nierenberg, Jonny Nierenberg, Tori Chanenchuk, Ali Nierenberg, Jody Gorin, Allie Gorin, Matthew Gorin, Erica Fineberg, Steven Carter, Mario Pecoraro, Chris Arlotta, Philip Greenwald, Dr. Nicholas Perricone, Michael Tadross, Matthew Yee, Vincent Wolf, Suzanne Sabet, Hormoz Sabet, Debbie Shlafmitz, Howard Shlafmitz, Sarah Shlafmitz, Craig Rivera, Cordelia Rivera.

The Hamptons Happening was a cocktail chef-tasting event featuring a dozen chefs and spirits from The Hamptons and NYC area providing samples of their favorite dishes, cocktails and mocktails. The event featured appearances by VIPS like Chris Wragge, anchor of CBS 2 Morning News, Hall of Fame linebacker Harry Carson of The NY Giants, Ramona Singer of RHONY, and a performance by Freestyle Love Supreme, a Tony Award Winning Broadway Musical Improv Group.

After the opening performance by Freestyle Love Supreme, Emcee Chris Wragge welcomed guests to the Hamptons Happening. After a brief interview with founder Dr. Samuel Waxman, the honorees were awarded by William T. Sullivan, Executive Director of the SWCRF. Following another brief performance, the auction got underway. With tickets purchased and auction item bids, the event raised more than $400,000.

The delicious tastings stations were supplied by: A la Mode, Arlotta Food Studio, Bareburger, Beauty & the Broth, Bimble, Centro Trattoria, Chef Julian Medina, Chef Scott Kampf of Southampton Social Club and Union Sushi & Steak; Clarkson Avenue Crumb Cake Company, David Burke Hospitality Management, Golden Pear, Halo Sport, Herradura Tequila, Kurly Kurtosh, Magnolia Bakery, MarieBelle New York, Milene Jardine, Out East Rose, Pompette, Rust & Gold, Simple Vodka, T-Bar Steak & Lounge, Taub Family Companies, Woodford Reserve.

Sponsors included: Backal Hospitality Group, Guaranteed Rate, HUGO BOSS Fashions Inc., James Lane Post, Mann Publications, Modern Luxury, Newrez, Prime Meridian Moving. And dozens of in-donations provided by Amali, Ani Private Resorts, Arlotta by Chris Arlotta, Arlotta Food Studio, The Baker House 1650, Bisous Web, Calissa, Covergirl, Chase William, Evolve East, Free People Movement, FR TEAM of Brown Harris Stevens, The Hidden Gem Café, HiWave, ISDIN, Kobi Halperin, Lawlor Media Group, Peter Thomas Roth, Regina Kravitz, Swoon.

The Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve officially started on June 30th, 2021 and culminated at the SWCRF’s 17th Annual Hamptons Happening. The virtual walk raised international awareness and funds for life-saving cancer research. Participants logged their steps during the 11 days with the aim of accumulating 25,000 miles, enough to travel around the world. The virtual fundraising walk collected $100,000 for cancer research.

The incidence of cancer is rising around the world and advanced age is the most significant risk factor. More than 60 percent of Americans diagnosed with cancer are 65 and older. SWCRF, in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute and National Institute on Aging, is leading the way in funding the scientists who are working towards the next breakthrough in cancer treatments. Currently, SWCRF is funding 50 renown investigators on three continents, each working together to develop less toxic cancer treatments.

For more information, visit: www.waxmancancer.org/events/hamptons/

Photos: Patrick McMullan and Rob Rich Society Allure

FIAF's Bastille Day Celebration 2021

Wednesday July 14 at 6:15 PM, celebrate Bastille Day at SummerStage in Central Park, with live music, dancing and a movie screening, hosted by the Consulate General of France in New York, the French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF), and the Committee of French Speaking Societies (CAFUSA). The event is FREE, with all chair and lawn seats being first come first serve.

Doors open at 5PM, then the evening will commence with an opening address at 6:15, then at 6:35 with a jazz quintet performing French classics, headlined by French Grammy-nominated singer Kavita Shah. 

At 7:15, Joachim Garraud, an important member of the French Touch (or French House) music scene, who has collaborated with David Guetta, will host a lively dance party. 

French film My Donkey, My Lover & I will screen at 8:10: “Directed by Caroline Vignal, this warm comedy features stunning landscapes, a gentle touch, a few slapstick flourishes, and a tour-de-force star turn from Laure Calamy (Call My Agent!). On an impulse, Paris school teacher Antoinette (Calamy) decides to follow her married lover Vladimir and his family on a hiking holiday. Yet she soon realizes this impromptu vacation is more than she bargained for, as she finds herself trekking across the Cévennes mountains with only a recalcitrant donkey named Patrick to keep her company.”

You can also enter the Prize Draw online, a popular FIAF Bastille Day tradition with dozens of prizes up for grabs, including the grand prize of a luxurious two-night stay in a Terrace Suite, complete with a bottle of Champagne and skyline views, at Sofitel New York.

Bastille Day is a French National Holiday, commemorating the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, and the birth of the modern French nation. Come join the celebrations at SummerStage Central Park!

Visit the FIAF website here for more details.

Costume Designer, Writer and Producer Alexandra Engelson

After a conversation with Long Island-based costume designer, writer and producer Alexandra Engelson, whose work could be seen premiering at Tribeca film festival this year, I received fascinating insight into how a career can be forged in the mysterious and elusive world of entertainment, and how one can use their success and creativity to uplift others breaking into the industry. 

Everything happens for a reason. So, it did for Alexandra Engelson who came from a theatre background, performing in shows, costume designing, and becoming a theatre major in college. But at Hofstra, Engelson wanted the opportunity to be a college student, join a sorority, start a nonprofit, so changed course to Public Relations, putting costume design in the past. Engelson started working for a lawyer, learning everything about contracts, then in non-scripted television as a travel coordinator, then in PR and event planning. But wanting to really follow her heart, she persistently reached out to mentors for learning experiences in the entertainment industry, eventually leading to a dream job as a Costume PA for Quantico, which was celebrated with a happy dance in her mother’s kitchen (despite the surprise of her family remembering her famous last words of never going back into costume design).

From there, Engelson became a Union Costume designer, and worked various other jobs on sets across departments, such as Clearance Coordinating, from which her past knowledge of law and contracts came in handy. Another one of her mentors, now an Executive Producer, suggested that the way to become a writer was to just start writing, have that shelf of ideas: pick up a pen and write. Engelson found she already had such a strong grasp of storytelling, as costume design requires an understanding of the psychology of a character similarly to how writing does.

THE COSTUME DESIGN PROCESS AND LEYLAK

After reading the script about three times, Engelson breaks down the script in terms of logistics such as how many costumes there are, what's happening in the scene, then moving more into the psychology of the character which includes not just what they might be wearing but how they would wear it. After meeting with the producers and writers honing in on the tone and color themes for the overall show, she will create mood boards. These mood boards include color palettes and the character arc throughout the script, thinking how journey can be reflected in costume. Engelson references the most prominent example to her in recent history of costume design reflecting a character arc with the character of Sansa in Game of Thrones (SPOILER ALERT FOR GOT AHEAD): Sansa goes from dressed in lilac flowy outfits of satin and silk, but by the middle after being abused and losing her family, the color scheme of her costumes becomes darker and tighter around her body until by the end when she becomes Queen of the North, her clothes are reminiscent of armour. For Engelson, including this arc in the mood boards is a prime way to get a clear vision of how the character’s overall journey is envisioned by the directors and writers.

Engelson was a Costume Designer for two projects at Tribeca Film Festival for this year, Discovery+ Shock Docs: The Devil Made Me Do It and Leylak, part of the New York Shorts program. Of utmost importance for Leylak was the opportunity to reflect not just on the pandemic, but the immigrant status of a Turkish family, so Engelson made sure she would be giving back to the community and representing them properly, as she does for all her work. Many of the costume pieces were sourced from Turkish designers by thorough research. Delving into the character psychology of Yusuf’s bereavement and his daughter Renk’s situation as a teen with a double identity of cultural background while trying to integrate into American culture was reflected in the costume design. The switch from a brighter colored dress when Renk is in the dark about her mother’s passing, from when she is told the truth now wearing a deeper solid blue reflects the character arc being explored through costume design. At one point, Engelson decided not to steam a wrinkled shirt for the actor playing Yusuf, explaining the detail of how his character has been in so much pain, the last thing on his mind would be how his shirt looks. After shooting the scene, the actor acknowledged how having the shirt wrinkled helped with his acting, revealing how costume design not only influences the visuals for viewers, but can also aid the actor’s performance.

LEYLAK

LEYLAK

DOMINO WRITING CHALLENGE 

Reflecting on the difficulties that so many women and non-binary people face trying to break into the industry as writers, and wanting to increase her own writing experience, Engelson started the Domino Writing Challenge in 2019. Turning the stereotype of the lone writer genius on its head, Engelson believes that collaboration is the only way of creating television and film. One of her sayings goes “I don’t have the golden ticket, but the people I bring on and the people I trust with my words or my costumes, together we can get the golden ticket and create the golden ticket.” The Domino writing challenge is a safe space for writing collaboration. For each challenge, the first person will get two days to write at least four pages of a script (flexibility to accommodate everyone’s schedules of course), then the next writer will take over to write the next four pages, passing the script along until it is completed. No editing is allowed until the first draft is complete, leading to a script made by 16 collaborators but still sounding almost seamless, refined through multiple drafts. The most recent challenge produced a terrifying Christmas Horror movie, showing the brilliance that can come out of collaboration from people of various levels of writing experience, from award-winners to newbies. Engelson has created a judge-free, no experience zone for any women and non-binary individuals to prove that anyone can be a writer. 

COLLABORATION IN JOINT VENTURE PILOT

Engelson is currently working on Joint Venture with six other writers, a half hour comedy about family, business and sampling the merchandise revolving around two adult twins who are in their 40’s who return home to discover their mom has turned their hardware store into a weed operation. Engelson is the co-creator, co-writer and coordinating producer for this concept which began by being workshopped with Marta Kauffmam (creator of Friends and Grace and Frankie). Engelson explained how the writing process is quite different from most Hollywood writer’s rooms, as her plus the six other writers sit every week on zoom and literally write every single word together. For the first four weeks, they took a page out of Dan Levy’s book (creator of Schitt’s Creek) by not starting any writing until they knew their characters completely. It then took about twelve weeks with two hours per week of work to write a first draft, an impressive feat of collaboration that Engelson considers a great process for producing the best version of the script possible, as every single word, action and scene is discussed as a team of creatives.

PILOT IN DEVELOPMENT: TRAVELLING SALESWOMAN

One day when sitting in her costume stock, a dress started moving and caught Engelson’s eye. Of course, it was just the wind, but it was a beautiful 1940’s beige dress with floral accent that seemed to be looking at her, and all of a sudden the whole life story of the woman who would have worn this came to her. Louise Margaret Lewis is a woman living in a man’s world in the 1940’s, a recent widow who discovered her husband has been murdered, so goes on an adventure with her friend who is a deaf artist. A neo-noir thriller all about female friendship and overcoming obstacles that has many parallels to today, The Travelling Saleswoman proof of concept is currently in development with Engelson at the helm as the writer, producer and designer. They are currently in the process of casting their lead actress and bringing onto the team someone who is deaf to script supervise the sign language.

Continuing to excel in her multi-hyphenate creative work, Engelson notes that no matter if you think you are a writer or not, there is always some kind of storyteller in you!

Seaport Artois

With millions of locals getting back in the New York groove by reuniting with their loved ones at their favorite eateries, Stella Artois is bringing together the city’s top restaurants as the spot to reconnect while savoring a refreshing beer, gourmet food and music.

As part of the brand’s all new “Your Table Is Ready” summer campaign, Seaport Artois will extend table service for restaurants during an extra competitive patio season and offer exclusive pizzas from the best kitchens in town with 100% of event proceeds benefiting New York restaurants and the James Beard Foundation. Starting today, book your spot to savor great food and beer at Seaport Artois via OpenTable by visiting StellaArtois.com/SeaportArtois. 

Kicking off on Thursday, June 17 at Pier 16, home to the South Street Seaport Museum, Seaport Artois will debut unique takes on New York pizza.

Pizza Party Headliners

• Chef Trigg Brown & Josh Ku of Win Son (‘20 Michelin Bib Gourmand)

• Chef Emma Bengtsson from Aquavit (‘20 two-star Michelin rated)

• Chef Erik Ramirez of Llama Inn (‘21 Michelin Bib Gourmand)

• Chef Alex Raij and Eder Montero of La Vara (‘21 Michelin Plate)

• Chef Hugue Dufour of M. Wells (‘21 Michelin Plate)

Delicious Event Lineup 

• “Iconic New York” (June 17): Kick off Seaport Artois and commemorate the classics on opening night, featuring Italian classic Don Angie (‘21 one-star Michelin rated).

• “Pride” (June 24): Celebrate and show your support of LGBTQIA+ owned restaurants.

• “NYC Flavors” (July 8): Toast to the diversity of food across this fine city.

• “Street Culture” (July 22): Salute the NY street food and culture that is unlike anywhere else.

• “Comeback” (August 5): A one-night only appearance from a beloved spot that closed its doors over the last year.

• “New” (August 19): Raise a chalice to welcome a new restaurant in the city that’s raved about.

Running for six weeks, your table at the Seaport Artois will be open from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. The pre-fixe evening will cost $50 and feature an amuse bouche, a selection of exclusive pizza interpretations, two chalices of Stella Artois, a sweet treat, DJ entertainment and exclusive access to Seaport Artois. Guests can also visit the Seaport Artois gift shop powered by Uncommon Goods that will be stocked with merchandise that are inspired by and pays tribute to New York City.

Seaport Artois is located at Pier 16 and will be the spot all summer long to reconnect with friends, family and the city you’ve missed. Starting today, locals can secure their spot at Seaport Artois at StellaArtois.com/SeaportArtois and get ready to savor a refreshing beer, gourmet food and music.

About Stella Artois

Stella Artois® is part of a brewing tradition dating back to 1366. It is the winner of the 2019 World Beer Award for World's Best International Lager and is present in 95 countries. Stella Artois is a bottom filtered, blonde pilsner. It is thirst quenching with a malty middle and crisp finish delivering a full flavor and a hint of bitterness. Stella Artois is best enjoyed served between 37.4- and 41-degree Fahrenheit and should be served in the unique Stella Artois Chalice according to the 9-Step Pouring Ritual to guarantee a perfect experience of this gold standard lager. Visit www.stellaartois.com for more information.

Boom! Where to Watch New York City Fireworks

New York City is known to go all out when lighting up the skies for the 4th of July, and after a hiatus due to COVID-19, it’s back and better than ever. Be sure to get a front row seat this weekend with five of the coolest spots across the boroughs.

Queens:

American Brass (2-01 50th Ave) in Long Island City will serve brunch, a raw bar and drinks menu midday and a three course dinner for $75 a person at night. Views will be as insatiable as the food with the fireworks positioned directly in front of the restaurant on the waterfront. Say goodbye to crowds of thousands and sit back and relax at American Brass .

Manhattan:

What better way to take in the glow than 42 stories in the sky at The Sentry (435 E. 35th St.) atop the American Copper Buildings? The private social and pool club is open to ticket holders for one day only — July 4th! The Sentry will transform this Sunday into a tropical paradise from 4pm - 11pm with a DJ, BBQ and epic view of the Macy’s firework show. Spending the day poolside on America's Birthday is easy and tickets include 4 drinks and can be purchased by visiting https://www.simpletix.com/e/summer-in-the-city-tickets-72797

The return of the Macy’s 4th Of July Fireworks means a scramble to find the best views. HolidayEvents.Com And Slate NY have partnered to bring a one-of-a-kind experience at the East 34th Street Heliport. An ideal viewing experience, guests will enjoy a live DJ, entertainment, food and bevs and of course insane fireworks.

Brooklyn:

Visitors can watch the skyline shine with fireworks with Fornino at Brooklyn Bridge Park's Pier 6. The rooftop will open beginning at 12pm (weather permitting) serving generations of Neapolitan pizza creations. In addition to fabulous pizza made in wood burning ovens, the eatery also serves specialty cocktails for the complete 4th of July experience. Reservations are a must and a $50 surcharge will apply to capture all of the action from this BK rooftop.

Staten Island:

If you have not been to a Clinton Hall location you are missing out. The newest Clinton Hall (55 Richmond Terrace) at Empire Outlets in Staten Island will open its doors for an amazing July 4th shindig.  The Supercraft beer hall will have draft beers, signature cocktails, and over the top dishes like their award winning Double SmashBurger. This will be complemented by a fireworks display from Empire Outlets on the water, which is free to attend.

Tribeca New York Shorts: LIZA ANONYMOUS and LEYLAK

Liza Anonymous and Leylak are two of the stellar short films that premiered in the Tribeca Film Festival 2021 New York Shorts Program, the second year that the festival is including this category. The New York Shorts Program features a line-up of shorts with narratives based in New York, often with NYC based filmmaking and acting talent.

LIZA ANONYMOUS

A vibrant and heartfelt snapshot of the search for community amongst the loneliness of a big city.

“Liza’s (Danielle Beckmann) desperate search to fit in sees her get wrapped up in a tangle of lies and ill-informed emulation: As her charade crumbles, she learns that imitation is not the sincerest form of flattery, but finds solace in the most unlikely of places.”

In Liza Anonymous, the title character Liza goes to various support groups in the city putting on different disguises and personas, in an attempt to find support from a community. 

Danielle Beckmann as Liza, courtesy of Liza Anonymous

I learned through a more in-depth discussion with the writer and director of the short, that for the actress/singer/filmmaker Leah Mckendrick, the writer of Liza Anonymous, this project started off as a gift for her actress friend Danielle Beckmann. The combination of fascination with the community created by support groups, and wanting to write a character to be tailored to Danielle’s acting strengths, led to the script coming to fruition. 

Director Aubrey Smyth immediately said yes upon reading the script, compelled particularly by the opportunities for creative visual language. The camera revolving around Liza in the opening scene of the film highlights Smyth’s interest in exciting visual interpretations, using a circular dolly track to transition seamlessly between the support group scenes.

Standing out to me when watching the film was the vibrance of colors in each scene differentiating the support groups. Smyth explained how this is very deliberate work with color theory, using set and costume design, only using a certain amount of colors in each support group scene to make a subconscious impact on the audience's viewing and the interpretation of the characters in each scene.

The themes in Liza Anonymous may seem familiar to New Yorkers, reflecting on times being in this vast city without having that group where you feel supported, feel like you are truly yourself. The temptation to feel scattered, like you have to pretend to be someone you’re not in order to fit into the moulds of the groups around you certainly rings true for me as someone only having lived in the city a few years. 

We can see in this short film how McKendrick reframes how loneliness is actually the ultimately shared experience between so many of us, when we otherwise may feel so unique in feeling isolated. Liza just really wants to put herself out there, although not necessarily doing it in the right way, it is still a hint towards the admirable boldness of trying to belong. Many of us put on different masks to try and fit in, although perhaps not as literally as Liza, it is a shared experience.

SPOILER ALERT BELOW!

In the final scene, we see Liza finally finding a group where she can be herself while also being able to play different personas: an improv troupe. Smyth notes how this scene connected to her personally, as the actors in this scene are pupils she took classes with in the city at Upright Citizens Brigade, bringing one of her own communities in NYC into the script.

LEYLAK

Winning a Special Mention Jury award, this film is particularly relevant and emotional, giving a snapshot of the tragedies of the pandemic, broken families and how we have tried to cope with so much loss especially with the devastation COVID caused to NYC.

“In present-day Queens, a Turkish gravedigger (Nadir Saribacak) is unable to face a shattering truth and risks losing the dearest connection left in his life.”

Leylak was written by Mustafa Kaymak, directed by NYC-based duo Scott Aharoni and Dennis Latos who run their internationally successful award-winning production company DUO Entertainment.

Filmed and set during the pandemic, the film opens with Turkish gravedigger Yusuf Çelik hard at work digging a field of graves, alluding to the mass deaths from COVID in the city. Yusuf struggles to come to terms with his wife’s condition in the hospital, not knowing how to explain the situation to his daughter Renk. 

The visuals follow dark grays and blues reminding us of the oppressive solemness of loss surrounding the characters, only slightly brightened by the flowers Renk wants to bring for her mother. The handheld camera's unsteady motion emphasizes the precarious emotional balance of the situation, inviting us right into the family’s personal space.

The performances by Nadir Saribacak, Isabella Haddock, and Gamze Ceylan are incredibly moving with gentle poignancy that captures the essence of such great loss so many have been through on an individual level.

Cast and Crew Information Liza Anonymous:

Cast: Danielle Beckmann, Daniel Fox, Rafael Sardina, Malikha Mallette, Lida Darmian, Sharon Gallardo, Jane Geller
Director: Aubrey Smyth
Writer: Leah McKendrick
Producers: Katie Rosin, Danielle Beckmann, Aubrey Smyth, Daniel Ornitz
Director of Photography: Chloe Smolkin
Production Designer: Daniel Ornitz
Costume Designer: Keely Bembry
First AD: Catriona Rubenis-Stevens
Composer: Joanna Katcher
Editor: Samantha Smith
Sound Recordist: Vera Quispe
Makeup Artist: Gianna Gutierrez
Casting: Kristen Paladino
Publicity: Katie Rosin/Kampfire PR

Cast and Crew Information Leylak:

Cast: Nadir Saribacak, Isabella Haddock, Gamze Ceylan
Director: Scott Aharoni, Dennis Latos
Writer: Mustafa Kaymak
Cinematographer: Laura Valladao
Editor: Scott Aharoni, Dennis Latos
Composer: Ahmet Kenan Bilgiç
Executive Producer: Yvette Pineyro, Steve Biegel, Robert Pistor, Iliana Guibert, Sola Fasehun

6 Giving Opportunities in NYC

Giving to others who need help is one of the most fulfilling things in life. When you give back, it feels like someone has lifted a weight off your shoulders. Being able to make someone’s day better feels incredibly satisfying. Fortunately, if you’re living in NYC, there are so many ways to give back through charity work that anyone can participate in. You don’t have to be rich or famous—just generous! That said, here are the top overlooked charity opportunities in the Big Apple.

1. Food Banks

Food is the easiest and also the most crucial necessity you can provide for the needy. There are several food banks in New York City, but the Food Bank for New York City in the Bronx and Capital Region Food Bank might be your best starting point. The Bronx has been struggling with increasing poverty over the past few years. Not to mention that crime is also prevalent, so this is an area that needs all the help it can get. These organizations assist those living below the poverty line by providing free groceries every week. Plus, they also distribute fresh produce through farmers’ market programs.

2. Book Donation

As the world becomes more digitized, physical tomes of knowledge are becoming rarer by the day. Many people don’t realize that libraries and schools are always looking for new books. You can donate old collections to the Brooklyn Public Library. A program called NYC Books Through Bars will take your paperbacks and give them to incarcerated individuals to help deal with loneliness. Giving away these precious pages means imparting your knowledge to others. The easiest way to donate books is by organizing them into fiction or nonfiction. Try to cover them if you can and then take them directly to your nearest public library branch or school.

3. Donating When Moving

Moving is one of the most overlooked opportunities to help others. During the process, it’s more likely that you will have a few extra things lying around that you won’t want to bring. You may have a spare TV sitting in your old apartment, or your kids may have outgrown their old toys and clothing. Consider donating these things to people who can’t afford to buy stuff themselves. 

These donations are a tremendous help to those living in low-income communities or neighborhoods where resources are scarce. It’s not just limited to toys or TVs. Donate whatever items you no longer need! It can be furniture, utensils, clothes, or even paint! What might seem like trash to you could make somebody else’s day brighter. Don’t hesitate to share! 

But since you won’t have a lot of time during the move, it’s best to leave the job to the professionals. Experts from www.moversnyc.com suggest that you hire a reputable moving company that offers to deliver your donation items to charity organizations for free. If your movers show that they care about others even without money involved, they’re also likely to care about your belongings since you’re their client.

4. Blood Donation

Do you want to give something that can save lives? Then donating your blood will undoubtedly make a difference! Many people need blood donations daily. With so many accidents and emergencies, there is always a shortage of healthy blood for those who need it most. Blood donation is a great way to keep the supply of this essential fluid sufficient at all times. To donate, visit any American Red Cross center or call (877) 733-2767 to book an appointment and learn the next steps.

5. Donate to Orphanages

Imagine a world without orphanages. These institutions provide care and support for children who have lost their parents or whose families can no longer afford to take care of them. But beyond the good intention, it’s not easy to run one. Orphanages need help with everything, including clothes, food, and toys for the kids. If you would like to donate your old items, pack them nicely and send them over to the local charity. Orphanages close to NYC include Zion Orphanage, which has been providing a home for children since 1899. 

6. Volunteer

What’s a better way to donate than giving some of your time to others? There are many different charities in New York City that will be more than happy to have you volunteer. You can choose from several programs, including Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, Green Thumb, and many others. Most of these groups connect people with opportunities that suit their interests, such as elderly care or knitting. They offer an eclectic mix of activities covering everything from animal rescue centers to soup kitchens. Nothing’s more fun than helping other people while doing what you love!

Sharing is caring. Beyond NYC’s glamour and wealth lies thousands of people struggling to get by. One act of kindness might not seem like much, but it should be enough to make even an inkling of a difference. Don’t think twice about sharing your blessings.

ARTECHOUSE NYC: Geometric Properties

Next door to Chelsea Market and at the crossroads of art and technology is the latest immersive exhibit to hit the town: Artechouse NYC. 

Founded in 2015 by arts advocates Sandro and Tati, Artechouse is a nationwide innovative art experience dedicated to showcasing new forms of creative expression. The NYC exhibit, titled “Geometric Properties,” is no exception. Exclusively showing the work of Julius Horsthuis, a Dutch visual and fractal artist who combines math, visual effects, and computer graphics, the  new Artechouse NYC is an impossibly stimulating, cinematic show unlike any other. 

The first thing you’ll notice when entering the exhibit is how dark it is. Where most traditional art exhibits tend to indulge in blank white walls, Artechouse NYC has used thousands of screens to display a spellbinding “new world” that includes everything from gothic-esque forests to psychedelic deserts. Adding to the experience is the Artechouse House app, which allows visitors to view kaleidoscopic, “hidden aspects” of certain works through their very own camera lens. The result? An all-enveloping, completely immersive experience. Lying on the ground, being lulled by the ambient music, it is too easy to feel as if you’ve been transported to an entirely new dimension. 

Still, all good things can’t last forever. After taking in all the exhibit has to offer, visitors are able to exit through a gift shop that leads right into Chelsea Market, where they are free to finish up their day with a meal at one of the market’s famous eateries.

So if you’re an art/science/math/tech fan who’s looking to lose yourself for a few hours, this exhibit is the one for you. Bring your phone, bring your friends, keep an open mind, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable, IG-worthy experience that’ll keep you wondering for weeks to come.

The “Geometric Properties'' exhibit at Artechouse NYC will run until September 6th, 2021. Follow @artechouse or visit their website https://www.artechouse.com/location/nyc/ to learn more about the exhibit.