Casita Maria Fiesta 2022

BFA

“It is a dream come true to be back here after these last few years”, said Jackie Weld Drake, Casita Maria Board Chair and benefit Co-Chair with HRH Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia as they welcomed over 300 guests to Casita Maria Fiesta 2022. Last night the celebration returned to New York City at The Plaza Hotel for the first time since 2019, before the covid pandemic, to honor Latino pioneers Tony Bechara, Cesar Conde, and Gaby Pacheco with the Gold Medal of Honor. Jackie continued, “We dedicate tonight to the memory of Anne Eisenhower who was on our board for 25 years, many of which she chaired Fiesta with me. We always wanted this to be the best party in New York!”

Emma Carrasco, Dalila Wilson-Scott, Johnathan Cyprien

Gabriela Pacheco, Jackie Weld Drake, Cesar Conde, Tony Bechara, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia

Moataz Refaie, Carlos Campos, Sissi Isabel Fleitas-Refaie, Eduardo Gonzalez Coro, Robert Reus, Victor Roquette

Daniel Brodsky presented the Casita Maria Gold Medal of Honor to his great friend, Tony Bechara, and shared, “Born in San Juan, Tony is a successful, prolific, abstract artist who has been living and working in New York City for more than 40 years. Tony has had exhibitions in New York, Washington, Miami, San Juan, Lima, Mexico, and Munich. He has always devoted his time making available and encouraging art for all, especially Latin Americans and Latino artists.” Tony thanked the crowded ballroom, saying, “To be introduced by Dan Brodsky is already an honor. I want to thank Casita Maria because many, many years ago, more than 70 years ago, waves of compatriots of mine from Puerto Rico were arriving here in New York looking for a better life. New York being the beacon of hope. There was no one to help them. Casita Maria filled that void. They were the first to do it.”

Andrew Lister, Sophia Schrager

Jackie Weld Drake

George Corton bestowed Cesar Conde with his Medal of Honor, “Cesar serves as Chairman of the NBCUniversal News Group, overseeing NBC News, MSNBC, and CNBC. He is the first Hispanic to lead a major English-language broadcast news organization! As a leading voice towards representation and diversity in the newsroom, Cesar launched the 50% challenge initiative, which inspires newsrooms to be 50% women and 50% people of color!” Cesar accepted the honor and shared “As we all know, we are living during a very unique time in our history. During these challenging times, I'm a believer that character is defined and revealed. My parents always taught my brothers and I that the only thing in life that no one can ever take away from you is your education. The work that Casita Maria is doing in educating and empowering our youth is the work that is in crisis. To do it during such challenging times speaks to the character of this organization and to the character of everyone that collaborates with it.”

Jorge Plasencia introduced honoree Gaby Pacheco who’s “especially known for her work with Dreamers, children who were brought to the United States and grew up here without legal documentation.” In an emotional speech, Gaby said, “I shouldn’t be here. The laws tell me that even though this is the country that I love and this is my home, I shouldn’t be here. When I was a little girl and I came to the United States, I didn't speak English, I didn't have friends, and I was scared. Today I stand before you knowing that I have power, that my story matters, and that every single Latino child deserves the right to fulfill their dreams and their lives.”

Joachim Bader, Mary Snow, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Omar Hernandez, Guillermo Giammona

Tony Bechara, Daniel Brodsky

Casita Maria is located in the South Bronx - the country's poorest Congressional District – and is the oldest charity to offer after school enrichment activities for Latino children. For decades, the annual Fiesta benefit has combined a fabulous party with social good, raising over 5 million dollars in the last ten years. These unrestricted funds have enabled Casita Maria to continue its programming year after year, including during the pandemic. Casita Maria offers high-quality, innovative arts after-school programming to over 1,000 students a year; as well as reaching an additional 40,000 community members through our Creative Arts programs of professional exhibitions and performances.

Guests included Dinner Chairs Adriana Echavarria, and Sissi Isabel Fleitas-Refaie, Committee Members Geoffrey Bradfield, Michele Gerber Klein, Ann Nitze, and Ben Rodriguez-Cubenas, Pachanga Chairs Victor Roquette and Sabrina Wirth, Pachanga Committee Members Cathy Aragon, Carlos Barraza, and Omar Hernandez, as well as Afsaneh Akhtari, Steven M.L. Aronson, Tina Beriro, Martha Bograd, Geoffrey Bradfield, Estrellita and Daniel Brodsky, Sharon Bush Murray, Carlos Campos, Mark and Maxine Dalio, Jennifer Fischer, Kathryn Gallagher, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Karol Gradsuel, William Haseltine and Maria Eugenia Maury, Will Hochman, BB Jean, Ben Lebowitz, William Ivey Long, Tony Marion, Elizabeth Meigher, Carlos Picon, Martin and Jean Shafiroff, Stephanie Stokes, Desiree von la Valette, Lynne Wheat, Charlie Ward, Chris Wolf, and many more.

Taste of Upper West Side 2022

The Taste of the Upper West Side is a large-scale food tasting event proudly hosted by the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District. It is a much-loved neighborhood event that highlights the relevance and scope of the Upper West Side's culinary culture. This past weekend, the festival returned for its 14th year. On September 30 and October 1, Taste of the Upper West Side was hosted in a tent at the playground on Columbus Avenue between West 76th and 77th streets, which is home to the Grand Bazaar NYC market.

Each year, Taste of the Upper West Side invites new restaurants, some of which have not yet opened, to give the community a chance to meet the chefs and try their food. The menus were delectably diversified, and participants sampled the delectable cuisines of the area's greatest restaurateurs. This year, over 80 chefs from the district's leading restaurants presented samples of their specialty dishes at the event. The proceeds from this event are reinvested in the community and used to finance specific neighborhood initiatives.

Farewell to Summer kicked off the 14th annual two-night culinary festival with highly anticipated premieres of restaurants and bars, as well as old local favorites, featuring 30+ prominent establishments grilling up cherished menu items. As always, there was the ultimate confectioners' corner, as well as unlimited wine, spirits, and music focusing on inventive seasonal food.

Autumn Ball presented by Park West Village wrapped up the festival.on the second night. It's a really upmarket event that will leave you overstuffed and with a long list of restaurants for which you need to make reservations.

Ainslie is Now Open at 199 Bowery

In the Lower East Side location of 199 Bowery where Vandal formerly stood, South Village Hospitality has officially unveiled the 20,000 square foot Italian restaurant, wine bar, and beer garden named Ainslie. Ainslie is presented to you by partners AJ Bontempo, Sergio Riva, and Mario Riva who also own and run Osteria Cotta on the Upper West Side, Follia in Gramercy, Carroll Place in Greenwich Village, and Ainslie's flagship in Williamsburg, which launched in the autumn of 2019.

A Shepard Fairey painting welcomes visitors to this large new Ainslie site in Lower Manhattan, which features an airy beer terrace that extends to the pavement through two hangar aircraft doors. A beer hall with a 50-foot bar, 32 beer taps, and games including foosball and shuffleboard is located within Ainslie. An small wine bar is located in front of a sizable open kitchen that includes a wood-fired pizza oven at the back of Ainslie. The restaurant features a private dining room that is ideal for parties as well as a gorgeous dining room with chandeliers above. Later this year, an underground club named The Underground will open beside the venue. It can accommodate 250 people for a cocktail-style event and 130 people seated. Additionally, there will be heated outside seats.

Executive Chef John DeLucie, a seasoned chef from New York City who founded Waverly Inn and currently serves as chef and partner at Empire Diner and Merchants Social in Hudson, New York, as well as having a platform on the new CookUnity Chef Collective in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, is in charge of the kitchen at Ainslie. In addition to a variety of hand-crafted wood-fired pizzas like The Saltimbocca with fresh mozzarella, prosciutto di parma, sage, and white wine, Chef DeLucie's menu at Ainslie also features Wood Fired Rosemary Wings, a signature Ainslie Burger with prosciutto and gorgonzola dolce served on a Brioche bun, homemade Ravioli, Gnocchi, and Pappardelle, and a Free Range Hanger Steak with watercress, balsamic and truffle fries.

After several years with South Village Hospitality, beverage director Jessica Duré, previously of Broken Shaker, now oversees Ainslie's beverage program and will also choose the wines for the new Bowery site. More than 20 wines by the glass, four wines on tap, and a dozen beers from regional and European breweries are available at the restaurant, which has various bars.

The restaurant is open on Wednesday & Thursday 5pm - Midnight, Friday - 4pm - 2am, Saturday - 4pm - 2am, Sunday - 4pm - Midnight with brunch coming soon.

Coctelería de los Muertos Pop-Up at Coctelería

The Garret Coctelera (349 Broome Street) hosted the Coctelera de los Muertos opening on September 21 to November 19. The Garret Bars team will be renovating their Nolita location to honor Dia de los Muertos (11/1 & 11/2), which is a celebration of life and those who have passed away.

The Garret Bars team has developed an immersive setting - the most recent in their continuous series of rotating pop-ups—that will transport visitors to Mexico to honor los muertos in collaboration with up-and-coming set designer Michael Harbeck. The exhibit will include:

• Gravestones, including  cutouts of gravestones on the walls and sculptural gravestones on the ceiling, the space will resemble an inverted cemetery. It tunes into the zeitgeist and pop culture phenomenon of Stranger Things and provides a design rhythm with a magical quality.

• Custom built altars attributed to those traditionally found in cemeteries and grave sites.

• Hanging marigolds, often known as “flowers of the dead” (flor de muerto), will be dispersed throughout the space – from the altars to the tables and ceiling. It is believed that marigolds’ vibrant colors and fragrant scent guide spirits to their altars.

• White bulb string lights will be decoratively strung from the ceiling both in the indoor and outdoor seating areas. 

• Brightly colored, woven blankets and textiles will be offered tableside to keep diners warm in the outdoor dining structure.

• Weekly DJs will play sets on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night! The bar will also host expanded Halloween celebrations and Dia De Los Muertos parties on November 1st and 2nd.

Beverage Director Max Stampa-Brown has put his creative spin on the new, on-theme beverage menu with libations featuring seasonal ingredients and festive garnishes. A few highlights include: 

• Weeping in Queens: White rum, pumpkin, orange bell pepper, five spice

• Barry Marigold: Tequila, carrot juice, agave, pumpkin seeds, pimento dram spiced liqueur

• Juanny Appleseed: Pisco, chai, apple, honey, aji amarillo 

• Cafe De Olla Hot Coffee: Oaxacan rum, coffee liqueur, spiced tea, have a nice day coffee

• Certified Sad Boy: Reposado tequila, pineapple, tamarind, hibiscus

• Felices Los: Four aged spirits - elijah craig bourbon, santa teresa 1796 rum, pedro ximenez sherry, peated scotch

Pair drinks with yummy bites from Chef Yuval Ochoa (also of The Garret Bars’ eastside concept Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits) like:

• Tacos - Choice of sweet potato, pork carnitas, short rib birira, and vegan chorizo

• Shrimp Ceviche- Shrimp, jalapeño, lime, cucumber, onions, tomato, black pepper, chips

• Tuna Tostada- Wild tuna, fermented red pepper mayo, diced scallions, furikake, corn tostada

• Rainbow Beet Salad- Sesame dressing, pistachio brittle, queso fresco mousse, spicy roasted pepitas

We highly recommend the Taco Tower, which serves 4-5 and comes with tacos, shrimp ceviche, tuna tartar, chips, and guacamole and hot sauces.

UNGA French After Party at the Hall des Lumières presented by FIAF

To celebrate the kick-off of UN Week, Villa Albertine and FIAF partnered to present the UNGA French After Party at the Hall des Lumières.

Hall des Lumières, which has recently popped up in New York after its longstanding existence in France, has opened its immersive exhibit called, “Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion.” The digital exhibition, which features most of Klimt’s work throughout his lifetime, is a truly immersive experience for any art and technology lover.

Hall des Lumières also presented three additional exhibits alongside Gold in Motion: FRIEDENSREICH HUNDERTWASSER: In the Wake of the Vienna Secession, 5 MOVEMENTS: Contemporary Creation and RECODING ENTROPIA: Contemporary Exhibition. The exhibitions all take place before Gold in Motion comes on screen, allowing each visitor to submerge all of their senses into the art world.

The UNGA French After Party also featured a live DJ, traditional charcuterie boards and other sensory experiences which filled the rooms of 49 Chambers Street throughout the night.

If you’re interested in attending Gustav Klimt: Gold in Motion, please visit the Hall des Lumiéres website.

Cassoulet Confessions: An Evening with Sylvie Bigar

On a true fall Wednesday, the Consulate General of France in New York hosted, “Cassoulet Confessions.” The event opened up with a panel discussion moderated by Communications Consultant, Marianne Fabre-Lanvin, while featuring a panel of prominent speakers: the author of Cassoulet Confessions, Sylvie Bigar; Executive Chef & Cassoulet Ambassador, Philippe Bertineau; Executive Director of La Maison de la Région Occitanie à New York, Paul Cousin; and Co-Owner of Clay Coyote Pottery, Morgan Baum.

The panel discussion was dedicated to cassoulet — one of the staples of French country cuisine. The dish is perfect for the chilly fall and winter nights, as it typically consists of “a hearty slow-simmered stew of sausage, confit (typically duck), pork, and white beans.” (Source: Kitchn) Cassoulet’s name comes from the traditional cooking pot, “the casserole”, which is a deep, round, earthenware pot with slanting sides. Although the Clay Coyote Pottery is based in Hutchinson, Minnesota, their studio is one of the three establishments in the United States that creates the proper “casserole”.

Sylvie Bigar, who is the author of Cassoulet Confessions, mentioned that she studied the dish and its cultural importance for years, but she truly understood the cassoulet and its significance once she tasted it in the Occitanie region of Southern France.

After the cassoulet discussion came to a close, the lucky attendees were able to taste-test one of the cassoulet recipes mentioned in the book, accompanied by a choice of Gerard Bertrand red or white wine and traditional baguette bread.

If you’re interested in learning more about the cassoulet dish, along with its cultural relevance and its influence on Sylvie Bigar’s life, Cassoulet Confessions is available for purchase here. If you’re also interested in making the cassoulet at home, make sure to order your casserole at Clay Coyote Pottery.

Diner en Blanc Makes a Splash for 10 Year Anniversary Event

Image Courtesy of Eric Vitale

Last Monday evening, Diner en Blanc’s 10th Anniversary location was unveiled as Brookfield Place, the same place they hosted their first event 10 years ago. Just after rain wreaked havoc on the city, 4,000 diehard attendees flocked to the waterfront, donned in white with all of their supplies for the evening, just as the sun came out before sunset.

According to Sandy Safi, Co-Founder of Diner en Blanc, this was also the first time that they went back to their waitlist for 2011 and invited back diners from the first event. New York was the first event in the United States and that event set Diner en Blanc into a global affair.

Guests sipped on champagne from Diner en Blanc partner, Champagne Barons de Rothschild and Celebrity Chef and four-time James Beard winner Todd English was on site to help.  “I love Diner en Blanc, it’s a global organization that brings people of all walks of life and cultures together in a peaceful and celebratory manner, and exemplifies that food is our greatest democracy.” At 7pm the iconic moment of diners waving their white napkins in the air signified the beginning of the dinner.

Image Courtesy of Eric Vitale

Co-Host Sarah Birtwistle, was a guest in Montreal 10-12 years ago and her husband said she would be a part of the organization one day. Fast forward and she has now helped organize in Montreal, Paris’ 30th anniversary dinner, which hosted 25,000 attendees and this event, among others. According to Sarah, the attendees make the event magical because they’re part of the production. “The people are part of the event versus just attending an event or concert.”

The event was the best excuse to wear white after Labor Day and rumor has it that next year’s location has already been chosen, although no one will know where it is until right before! For more information and to get on the waitlist, visit https://newyork.dinerenblanc.com/.

-Photos courtesy of Eric Vitale

Lang Lang Gala 2022

Lang Lang and his wife Gina Alice hosted the Lang Lang International Music Foundation Gala Concert and Dinner on September 21st at Cipriani Broadway. Lang Lang performed, along with Disney’s Encanto, Mauro Castillo, singing We Don't Talk About Bruno and 20 Young Scholars from the foundation. The sweet melodies of Steinway & Sons pianos filled the air, delighting all the guests.

Wyclef Jean gave an impromptu birthday performance of Maria Maria for his friend Lang Lang --- celebrating a 40th birthday that was three months ago, “I could not be with you then, so let’s do it now”. It was only one of the high notes of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation “Lang Lang and Friends Gala” last night in New York CIty, their first since the pandemic. John Paulson chaired the event, offering “I tried to play many instruments in my life but learned that I'm better as an audience. But the work of the foundation is important. Thousands of children will play music and gain confidence because of this foundation and your support." Lang Lang then joined CEO of his Foundation, Leszek Barwinski Brown, on stage and greeted the audience with, "Thank you for coming tonight to help celebrate the power of music, all I can say to you is Good Job!" The black-tie evening raised in excess of 1.3 million dollars.

The Foundation’s Ariela Rossberg announced their first annual Teacher of the Year Award, Davis Cahill of Jefferson Elementary School in Greensboro NC. Lang Lang commended him personally for his outstanding commitment to music education and presented him with a check for five thousand dollars.

Barbara Tober presented a posthumous Lifetime Philanthropy Award to longtime board member Shirley Young, who befriended Lang Lang when he was just ten. Shirley’s sons, David, Doug, and William Hsieh announced a $100,000 challenge grant for new Keys of Inspiration school sponsorship in her memory. Tober also announced the creation of the Donald Tober Piano Fund for Scholars, helping talented young pianists with tuition fees, travel to competitions, lessons, and piano maintenance.

The evening was filled with musical performances, including Lang Lang himself playing several from his new album, The Disney Book as well as the Chinese favorite, Jasmine Flower. He was joined by Mauro Castillo from the cast of Disney's Encanto for a version of We Don't Talk About Bruno. Afterwards, the crowd held glow sticks in the air while Lang Lang and his wife, Gina Alice, performed a romantic rendition of When You Wish Upon a Star. Castillo took the stage once more to perform a Celia Cruz salsa with Young Scholar alumni Maxim Lando, followed by Wyclef's surprise concert.

Among over 300 guests were Lang Lang International Music Foundation Board members Christy Cressy, David Hsieh, David Hryck, Joseph Rallo, Elizabeth Segerstrom, and Kyle Wool. Supporters included Kelly Bensimon, Candace Bushnell, Mauro Castillo, Kelly Cutrone, artist Steven Ladd, as well as Afsaneh Akhtari, Janna Bullock, Amanda and Carter Burch, Angela Chen, Joan Hardy Clark, Judith Anne Corrente and Wym Kooyer, Laurie Cumbo, Nathanael Hausmann, Joanna Fisher, Chloe Flower, Carole Guest, Michele Gerber Klein, Ellie Manko, Sherrie Mu, Liane Pei, Lydia and David Sarfati, Jean Shafiroff, Daisy Soros, Vivienne Tam, Veronika Vilim and Victoria Wyman.

Photos by Jonathan Marder + Company

Turkish Airlines CONNECT photography exhibition

On September 16th, the "CONNECT" exhibition and its stunning picture collection were officially launched by Turkish Airlines, the international carrier that flies to the most nations than any other, and the Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey in New York. The Turkish House, one of Turkey's most important diplomatic missions abroad, hosted the unveiling.

The "CONNECT" exhibition showcases landscape photography from 49 cities and 49 different areas of Turkey, highlighting both undiscovered treasures of Anatolia and offering fresh viewpoints on well-known and recognized locations. The exhibition, which was put together by Serhat Kula, has images taken by one of the new generation of artists' photographers, Murat Daaslan.

The display, which is based on the idea of Pangea, the supercontinent that existed millions of years ago, honors Turkish Airlines' vast connectedness as the international carrier that flies to the most nations.

On the exhibition, Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat stated; “In many ways, Türkiye’s history is that of humanity.With countless cultures making their home on this remarkable land, it is apparent to visitors how pivotal a role these lands have played in the development of civilized societies. More than 30 years ago we started flying to the U.S. and Turkish Airlines will be celebrating its 90th anniversary next year. Our mission today, as it was then, is to bridge continents, connect countries and unite communities.”

Present at the event and for a ribbon-cutting ceremony was Turkish Airlines Chairman of the Board and the Executive Committee Prof. Dr. Ahmet Bolat, Türkiye’s Ambassador to the United States Hasan Murat Mercan, Consul General of Türkiye in New York Reyhan Özgür, and Permanent Representative of Türkiye to the United Nations Ambassador Feridun H. Sinirlioğlu.

Authentic Flamenco by the Royal Opera of Madrid

In the heart of Harlem at the vaulted St. Thomas the Apostle Church you can find Authentic Flamenco by the Royal Opera of Madrid. A special and passionate flamenco show performed by award-winning professionals from Spain, this authentic flamenco expresses raw passion and emotion with it, the feelings that make us human. They honor and celebrate this captivating Spanish art form with award-winning dancer and choreographer, Amador Rojas, alongside outstanding Spanish artists.

Originating in Spain, this special show, in partnership with the Royal Opera of Madrid and produced by SO-LA-NA, brings together award-winning professionals for an unforgettable performance with stunning vocals, instruments, and dances. Whether you’re an avid flamenco lover or just seeing it for the first time, there’s no better, more authentic way to witness firsthand the raw power of this captivating Spanish art form.

Even if you don’t speak any Spanish, the emotions of the storytelling will captivate and move you. Featuring live instruments on the stage and encouraging audience participation to clap and shout “olé!”, this immersive experience makes for an impressive and unique date night. 

VIP tickets include exclusive visibility with seat selection, and a meet & greet with the artists to take photos after the show. It also includes a tasting of Spanish products before the show, including delicious charcuterie for the real European experience. A cash bar offered a selection of imported Spanish wines and liquors.

Visit https://feverup.com/m/116734 to get your tickets to this passionate and authentic event!

Downtown 100 Party at Nebula

The Best Selling Author of “Anyone Who’s Anyone, Editor at Large of PARK Magazine and Vanity Fair scribe George Wayne hosted his 26th Annual Downtown 100 Party in Midtown at Nebula on Tuesday, September 13th.

Over twenty years ago, George came up with the idea of throwing a party called "The Downtown 100 Party" to honor the 100 most innovative, influential, inspiring, and ground-breaking names in the DOWNTOWN community.

Fashion Designers Nicole Miller and Frederick Anderson danced to a live soundtrack of disco classics from DJ Elle Dee alongside New York Times Best Selling Author of Sex & the City Candace Bushnell, Jean Shafiroff, and The Dragon Sisters. Nebula owners Yang Gao and Richie Romero were also on hand to celebrate the occasion. The Studio 54 themed party celebrated the 100 coolest, smartest, and most fabulous minds of our zeitgeist, and revelers continued to party at Nebula well into the night for their weekly Tuesday Baby Tuesday party.

One of New York City's most esteemed lists is the Downtown 100 List. George Wayne has already given recognition to celebrities on it, including Lady Gaga, Kate Upton, Ivana Trump, A$AP Rocky, Solange Knowles, Alan Cumming,, and a long list of others.

Photos Courtesy of Patrick Cashin

The Fresh Kids of Bel-Air at Le Poisson Rouge

The Fresh Kids of Bel-Air performing on Friday nights at Le Poisson Rouge (LPR) is a can't-miss dance party down memory lane!

The epic cover band, consisting of five local NYC musicians on vocals, electric guitar, and drums, takes the stage weekly to entertain a packed audience with hits from chart-topping artists of the 1990s and 2000s every Friday at 11:55 PM (and doors open at 11pm). The genre-bending musical event is the brainchild of Fun Music Presents and includes a sing-a-long filled with hit singles from stars like Jay-Z, Lizzo, Katy Perry, Fall Out Boy, Eminem, Rhianna, Blink-182.

Party-goers are also invited to an opening DJ set full of throwbacks and mind-blowing mash-ups. And expect the unexpected with special performances from surprise talent from the dance floor or elevated VIP booths, drinking their fave cocktails and belting out tunes into the AM!

This past Friday brought out Rock of Ages star Constantine Maroulis and Mims, who popped in to perform hits with The Fresh Kids.

To purchase tickets or reserve VIP tables and bottle packages visit, https://www.funmusicpresents.com 

All photo credit : Toni-Ann Langella

Josh McBride annual birthday celebration at Somewhere Nowhere

Mya, Nina Sky and Tiffany Pollard celebrating TV Personality Josh McBride’s birthday, sponsored by Cupcake Vineyards, at Somewhere Nowhere in NYC

TV personality Josh McBride hosted his annual birthday celebration at NYC hotspot Somewhere Nowhere on Friday, September 9th during NYFW. The black and white themed party was the talk of the town, drawing in over 200 of his closest friends and family. 

Tifanny Pollard

Nina Sky

Nina Sky performing

The night, sponsored by Cupcake Vineyards, was full of surprises.  Grammy Award winning singer Mya  had the crowd going wild when she took the stage to perform some of her biggest hits and the “Move Your Body” Musical duo Nina Sky put on an epic show. The fun didn’t stop there! Que from MTV’s Making the Band “Day 26” gave an impromptu performance that had everyone singing along.

Mya and Nina Sky

Mya

Notables who were spotted wishing Josh McBride a Happy Birthday included  Grammy Award winning singer Mya, Nina Sky,  Tiffany Pollard, Sharelle Rosado (Netflix's new Selling Tampa), Riley Burruss (Real Housewives of ATL/Kandi Burruss Daughter), Que (MTV’s Making the Band “Day 26”),  OneFunnyLisaMarie (Comedian/Social Media Sensation), Brittney Akins (WE tv’s Growing Up Hip Hop), Sameer Quereshi (owners of Somewhere Nowhere) and many more.

(Photo Credit: Tylik Hill | Vocab Entertainment)

Machine Dazzle Exhibition at MAD Opens During NYFW

Last night the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) welcomed more than 700 friends to celebrate the opening of Queer Maximalism x Machine Dazzle, the first solo exhibition dedicated to the genre-defying artist Matthew Flower, better known as Machine Dazzle. Sequins, glitter, feathers, rhinestones, and ribbons filled the Museum, as the self-taught designer shared his repertoire of stagecraft, design, performance, and music, showcasing queer maximalism’s aesthetic language of gay liberation.

“Since its founding, the Museum of Arts and Design has been a home for artists who have reimagined and radically subverted traditional craft techniques in search of more authentic self-expression,” said exhibition curator Elissa Auther, Deputy Director of Curatorial Affairs and William and Mildred Lasdon Chief Curator at MAD. “Machine Dazzle demonstrates how costumes have world-making capacity, why unorthodox materials have become the preferred way for those outside of majority culture to describe themselves, and the ways in which excess can both transform and transfigure the queer body.”

Warmth, joy, and connection, exuded from the Museum, highlighting the importance of this exhibition to the LGBTQ+ community. “The higher the heels, the closer to the goddess,” said Machine Dazzle to a packed room as the Dazzle Dancers reunited to perform a colorful dance with a provocative finale of no clothing–just glitter! As founding Dazzle Dancer Mike Albo wrote in his essay contribution to the exhibition catalogue, “having fun is a political act,” and only fun was had last night.

Guests included Penny Arcade, Noella Bella, Mx. Justin Vivian Bond, Haleigh Ciel, MAD Chair Michele Cohen with Marty Cohen, Amy Fine Collins, Duke Dang, Darlinda, John "Lypsinka" Epperson, Taylor Mac, Andrew Martin-Weber, Dirty Martini, Marsy Mittlemann, MAD’s  Nanette L. Laitman Director Tim Rodgers, Ben Rodriguez-Cubeñas, Dan Romer, Jean Shafiroff, Christopher Tanner, Davóne Tines, and MAD Chair Emeritus Barbara Tober.

On view until February 19, 2023, the exhibition brings together nearly 100 of the artist’s creations for stage, spectacles, and street theater, alongside a variety of environments, ephemera, material samples, photography, and video. Together, they chronicle the metamorphosis of Flower, a closeted suburban kid from Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, into “Machine Dazzle,” the queer experimental theater genius.

Displayed are Machine Dazzle’s famous collaborations with drag and performance luminaries such as the Dazzle Dancers, Mx Justin Vivian Bond, and Taylor Mac, among others, as well as the artist’s recent emergence from behind the scenes to center stage of their own artistic life. 

Queer Maximalism x Machine Dazzle is accompanied by a 160-page catalog published by Rizzoli, as well as a series of films curated by Machine Dazzle, that helped shape the artist’s aesthetic sensibility. Starting October, the series includes screenings of the Faye Dunaway classic The Eyes of Laura Mars (1978) for Halloween and Xanadu (1980) starring Olivia Newton- John to mark the artist’s birthday. Attendees of the film screenings can expect costume contests, giveaways, photo shoots, and more! For more information, visit madmuseum.org.

Photos by PMC Getty photos

Festivál Cafe Celebrates 2nd Birthday in UES

Kicking off right before Labor Day Weekend, Festivál Cafe celebrated their 2nd birthday in their Upper East Side venue. Known previously from their Secret Summer events, the producers went on to open the only farm-to-table bar experience in NYC.

Much like Secret Summer, the birthday party featured spirits that were stars of the show. Dorothy Parker Rose Petal Gin was the main ingredient for the Dorothy’s Raspberry Rose cocktail served up in with a raspberry foam topper. Dorothy’s Birthday Melons featured a refreshing mix of Dorothy Parker Gin, yuzu lime, melon and green tea demerara. And Ragtime Rye was the main component of the Peach Ragtime Celebration cocktail with lemon, peach and thyme demerara and the Ragtime Rye Juleps, either the classic triple mint or elecampane variety.

Cocktails were not the only thing on the menu. In addition to a grand grazing table, Festivál served up mini lobster bites, tuna tostadas, and various flatbreads to keep palates satiated. For entertainment, Louis B. Middleton opened up the night playing covers of popular artists that encouraged attendee sing-a-longs, and a DJ Tony Starr closed out the night.

Didn’t make the event? You have plenty of opportunities to have a similar experience. The restaurant is open for coffee and pastries in the morning, afternoon menus and dinner service Monday-Saturday, with live music weekly on Thursdays. Should you want to host your own party, private parties are also available to host in their varied spaces. For more information, please visit https://www.festivalcafenyc.com/.

New Serafina Rooftop Perches Above Times Square

Serafina in the Sky, the newest location in the Pod Hotel, opened just before the end of summer, taking over the old Polynesian space. Sitting nine stories above 42nd Street, the venue dons the iconic yellow accents along with the authentic Italian cuisine that Serafina is known for.

Highlights from the menu include the vegetable lasagna, cacio e pepe pasta and pizza margherita. Other dishes that are great to share for the table are the calamari, truffle fries and Serafina’s famous meatballs. While the cocktail menu is still being crafted, specialty drinks that are not to be missed while we still have warm weather are the rum punch, flavored margaritas and frose.

Whether it’s indoor or outdoor, pre-theater dining or happy hour, Serafina in the Sky is perfect for groups, corporate events, dining with family, friends, or with a date. For more information, please visit https://www.serafinarestaurant.com/serafina-in-the-sky-pod-hotel/.

Southampton Arts Center SummerFest

Southampton Arts Center [SAC – southamptonartscenter.org] hosted their largest benefit and culinary arts festival, SummerFest, on September 1st! Honorees Helena and Rob Vahradian accepted the 2022 Champion of the Arts Award for their commitment to the arts of Southampton. Broadway star Jessica Vosk (Elphaba in Wicked) performed a medley of songs entertaining over 370 guests, with dinner and dancing into the morning hours. SummerFest is SAC’s most critical fundraising initiative generating 1/3 of SAC’s annual contributed income – allowing the continuation of our year-round world class programming while serving as a critical economic driver of our beloved community. As a result of last night, today they proudly announce the event raised over $650,000! Committee members were dressed in Bulgari jewelry while guests perused Bulgari vitrines in their bespoke lounge and enjoyed sweet treats from their dessert cart. LaLique partnered with Oscar Mora to produce and design the floral decor for the tables and, additionally, their historic LaLique designed vases were centerpieces. As guests arrived for cocktails, they were greeted by the stunning LaLique floral cart for the perfect photo op. Guests strolled through the galleries experiencing SAC’s current exhibition, FIGURES TRANSFORMED, curated by Christina Mossaides Strassfield after enjoying signature dishes for an authentic taste of the Hamptons from its most celebrated East End restaurants! Serving as the backdrop for SummerFest, guests freely explored the historic grounds and galleries of 25 Jobs Lane, with artwork by Deborah Buck, Hal Buckner, and Strong-Cuevas. 

“We've now completed our 9th season at The Southampton Arts Center. Next year that's double digits time!” shared founding co-chair, Simone Levinson in her opening speech. “SummerFest originated as a way to have a great party to represent who we are and what we do.  It is an opportunity to come together to celebrate our mission of building community through the arts. Each year, we've grown exponentially, and tonight we're hosting 370 people here for dinner.” she stated, proudly. “We have an after dark party where we're going to have over 200 young patrons spearheaded by Andrew Warren and his host committee.”

Following SummerFest was SAC’s first annual SummerFest After Dark party. Hosted by Alexander Hankin, Danielle Naftali, Makenzie Moon Phelan, and Andrew Warren, with event co-chairs Emira D’Spain, Julia Moshy, Noor Pahlavi, Julian Polak, Ryan Thomas Roth, and Harrison Vail. Whipshots’ played a pivotal role as it hyped up the party with signature milkshakes passed just in time for Grammy Nominated singer Kelis’ performance of her iconic hit Milshake. The boozy, alcohol infused whipped cream topped the milkshakes, instantly taking everything to the next level. Guests enjoyed their bottomless drinks, bites, and danced past 2 am to music by DJ’s Zeke Thomas and Timo Weiland.

Honorees Helena and Rob Vahradian were joined by event chairs Sylvia Hemingway, Simone and David Levinson, Nicole and Allen Salmasi, and Aline and Tom Shapiro, as well as distinguished supporters, including Stacey Bronfman, Henry Buhl, Candace Bushnell, Lisa Dennison, Jamee and Peter Gregory, Dorothy Lichtenstein, Margie Loeb, Daniel Nir, Susan Rockefeller, The Honorable Wilbur and Hilary Ross, Kara Ross, Chuck Scarborough, Jean and Martin Shafiroff, Sarah and Andrew Wetenhall, and more. And, After Dark guests included Mercedes de Guardiola, Gabi Demartino, Noriella (Nora Gjieli), Morgan Halberg, Logan Horne, Natalie Jackson, Brooke Korine, Brooks Marks, Micah McLaurin, Brooks Nader, Stephanie Nass, Preston NicholasJeff O’Donnell, Newman Parker, Erica Pelosini, Taylor Phillips, Giancarlo Purch, Kameron Ramirez, Melany Rodriguez, Nathan Romano, Sydney Sadick, Rosa Sanchez, Ally Shapiro, Duckie Thot, Blake and Elliot Tomaeno, and Michaela V.

A very special thanks to SummerFest sponsors 21 Seeds Tequila, Baked by Melissa, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Bulgari, D&G Gelato, Geo Events, GTIS Partners, ICHIBan Japanese Catering, KPMG, LaLique, New York Lounge Decor, Pearl Street Caviar, Peter Thomas Roth, PS Balloons, Puff Delights, Shearman & Sterling, Sundae Donuts, Tickets 2 Events, WhipShots, and Whispering Angel. Additional thanks to Fiduciary Trust International, and Purist. Dinner was served by Acquolina.

Select Southampton Arts Center programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature. FIGURES TRANSFORMED is presented by Sylvia Hemingway and Lana Jokel, with media partners Purist and WLIW-FM. FILM @ SAC is sponsored by Brown Harris Stevens. Wellness @ SAC media partner is The Purist. ECO Programs at SAC are made possible by Dorothy & Michael Reilly. Financial Literacy Partner: J.P. Morgan Private Bank. General operating support is provided by Bank of America. The SAC Summer Stage 2022 is sponsored by Primary Care and Reproductive Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian.

ABOUT SOUTHAMPTON ARTS CENTER 

Southampton Arts Center is committed to community building through the arts. We present and produce inspiring, inclusive, socially and regionally relevant programs across all disciplines – welcoming, connecting, and collaborating with the diverse members of New York’s East End community and beyond. SAC is a not for profit 501(c)(3) organization. 

For more information about Southampton Arts Center, located at 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton, New York 11968, visit southamptonartscenter.org or call 631.283.0967. Follow SAC on Facebook and Instagram @southamptonartscenter. For press inquiries, contact Rachel Bosworth via email at rachel@rachelbosworth.com or by phone at 631.220.1220. 

Photos Credits: PMC / Getty by Sean Zanni, PMC / Getty by Patrick McMullan, BFA by Madison Voelkel

Lang Lang Hamptons Party

Christopher Burch opened his new Watermill residence for a Young Scholars Concert by the Lang Lang International Music Foundation on Saturday, August 27th. A longtime board member, Buch will soon again become the foundation’s chairman.  

The two Young Scholars, Eden Chen and Maxim Lando, performed at sundown solos and four in hand reeditions of a varied program including Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux from The Nutcracker and Led Zeppelin's Stairway to Heaven, Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue, Sousa’s The Stars and Stripes Forever.  

Lukas Barwinski-Brown, CEO of the Lang Lang International Music Foundation, thanked Chris and spoke movingly of their work together, and how no child should be denied a musical education.  Lang Lang’s Foundation now works on three continents, both partnering with schools in low income districts as well as mentoring for the most talented musicians.  He also announced plans for the upcoming fundraiser, Lang Lang & Friends Gala Concert and Dinner, September 21 in New York City with performances by Lang Lang, his wife Gina Alice, Mauro Castillo (star of Disney’s Encanto), plus 20 of the Lang Lang Scholars. 

Guests at the Burch residence included the Board Members David Hryck, and Kyle Wool, as well as Debbie Bancroft, Janna Bullock with her dog, Cricket and Richard Burns, Candace Bushnell, Lord William and Liliana Cavendish, Luane de Lesseps, Max Dolgicer, Patricia Duff, Lee Fryd, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Carole Guest, Andrea Karambelas, Ellie Manko, Liane Pei, Mary Snow, Sophia Tang, Peter Thomas Roth, and many more.

Farm to People

In the past, summer meant visiting the farmers' market and meandering among stalls brimming with colorful fruit, getting free samples, and talking to farmers who could explain exactly how they cultivated their food. Even though the pandemic has been abating, our purchasing patterns have been permanently altered because we now frequently order items online or over the phone in place of going to a physical store. There isn't anything that can replace the tradition of buying your own vegetables at the farmers' market, but there is a delivery service that comes very close.

Brooklyn-based Farm to People offers the greenmarket experience without you ever having to leave your apartment. Produce CSAs (community-supported agriculture) of all sizes are delivered by Farm to People to Manhattan, as well as select areas of Brooklyn and Queens. The boxes can include produce that is in season and organic, as well as protein and supplies. Produce, in particular, comes from farms that are free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), organic, and regenerative. One of the best things about Farm to People is that they pay their farmers $0.50 for every $1 sold on average (higher than the $0.13 per consumer $1 spent that farmers collect through traditional retail channels). You have the option of purchasing products à la carte or subscribing to a service, in which case you can remove items you aren't interested in and add others.

Michael Robinov

Michael Robinov, along with his father, David Robinov, and cofounder Anina von Haeften, established Farm to People in 2013. Michael Robinov was inspired to start the company after spending time working at the Union Square farmers’ market in New York City while he was a high school student. He was also influenced by his father, who was a pioneer in the natural food scene.

Farm to People has also launched Farm to People Kitchen & Bar, a restaurant serving the same premium, freshly chosen foods that consumers have come to love since its founding. A network of over 150 farms provides the ingredients for the cuisine at the restaurant. The space is the antithesis of the "dark store" movement and invites people to dine in, in an effort to further connect them with their food. Chef Matt's menu includes items like a Sumac Smash Burger, Yuzu Tarragon Potato Salad, Baby Gem Salad, lots of natural wines, and craft beers. “Food brings us all together,” said Michael Robnov, as he was giving a tour of the new space.

Farm to People Kitchen & Bar is located at 1100 Flushing Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237 and open Friday 5 p.m.-12 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m.-12 a.m., and Sunday 2 p.m.-10 p.m.

Celebrating Drink Lightly Book Release with Lillet

Natasha David, a mixologist and author, hosted a party at the Showfields terrace to celebrate the publication of her book Drink Lightly. Guests enjoyed tasting light cocktails from the book, flower arrangements, delectable bites, and refreshing Lillet apéritifs.

Drink Lightly is a collection of low-alcohol aperitif style genre-pushing drinks that embrace a relaxed style of drinking while being based on the technical precision of craft-cocktails from award-winning bartender Natasha David’s expertise. Natasha also details in the book how her international upbringing, filled with food and music, and her journey in NYC brought her to where she is today. A collection of the book's recipes were available to try, like the “Endless Spring” with Lillet Rose, amaro, fresh lemon, and strawberry puree, or the non-alcoholic delight “Adult Supervision” with raspberry, verjus, and seltzer.

The “Giggle Fit” from Drink Lightly (Lillet Rose, aquavit, fresh lemon, pomegranate, carrot eau de vie, and sparkling rose)

Drink Lightly recipes sample

Lillet celebrated their 150th anniversary with Natasha as their brand ambassador this year. The French aperitifs, perfect for light and bright summer cocktails, can be found in NYC retailers including Astor Wine and Spirits, Warehouse Wine & Spirits, Bowery and Vine Wine & Spirits, and East Village Wines.

Pick up your copy of Drink Lightly and a bottle of Lillet to start making some relaxing summer sunset cocktails!