Holiday House NYC 2022

Amy Lau, Iris Dankner, Jean Shafiroff Photo Credit: John Sanderson/AnnieWatt.com

Holiday House NYC held the launch of their Fall 2022 Designer Showhouse on Wednesday, November 9 at The Kent, a 30-story luxury residential skyscraper on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

Over 200 guests enjoyed Elegant Affairs Caterers and Tito's Vodka as they strolled throughout the three-story venue. Katie Brandt Interiors, Elsa Soyars Interiors, k.a. murphy Interiors, A-List Interiors, Susan Glick Interiors, Badilla Painters & Rio Hamilton, Neil Kerman Gallery & Riki Wagh, Aamir Khandwala, Cynthia Rowley x Parete, Sarah Lederman Interiors, Eneia White Interiors, Jen Talbot Design, Roche Bobois x Alison Rose, CD Interiors, and Design By Tula Children's rooms, Terraces, kitchens, and everything else were shown by each designer in his or her own area, which was adorned with fashionable and cutting-edge designs.

“Holiday House is a time for talented designers of all styles to come together to showcase their work, while contributing to a great cause that holds deeply in my heart. Every year I get the pleasure of meeting and showcasing the thoughtful talents of some of the best designs in the world and this year was no different. Sitting with the designers before to understand there style, I was able to create two very different apartments one with more eclectic designs and one showcasing a neutral design, for all to enjoy and find what style they draw to the most!” – Iris Dankner, Founder of Holiday House and breast cancer survivor

Among those in attendance were Alan Oppenheimer, Tim Sheridan Stark, Patti Carpenter, Jay Dankner, Rebecca Hakimian and Sabrina Hakimian, Neil Kerman, David Philips, Michael Manville Stark, Gary Mindlin and Amy Rosenblum. 

"Holiday House supports such an important mission and The Kent is honored to partner with them to host this year's Designer Showhouse Event in the Penthouse Residences. These homes are some of the most unique on New York's Upper East Side with expansive layouts, the finest finishes and incredible views of the skyline, East River and Central Park, allowing all attendees to experience the very best of New York while simultaneously participating in such a meaningful cause." - Alan Oppenheimer, Vice President, Development at Extell Development Company

The event sponsors included Nash Stone Group, M. Daddio, Inc. Builders, Exequor Wellness, Fabricut, Phillip Jeffries, New York’s Little Elves, Roche Bobois, Kirsch, Benjamin Moore, Ann Gish, Parete, Top Hat Home Services, Tito’s Vodka, Royal Botania, Modernist Cuisine, FJ Hakimian, Studio Greytak, Neil Kerman Gallery, Frette, Stark Carpet, AJ Madison and John Lyle. Media Partners included Modern Luxury Manhattan, Hamptons Real Estate Showcase, and Park Magazine. 

Photo Credit: John Sanderson/AnnieWatt.com

Photo Credit: John Sanderson/AnnieWatt.com

Photo Credit: John Sanderson/AnnieWatt.com

Founded by interior designer and breast cancer survivor Iris Dankner in 2008, Holiday House is an interior design showhouse in which top interior designers and lifestyle brands can showcase their talent. All proceeds from Holiday House events benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. You can learn more about Holiday House by visiting their website at www.holidayhousenyc.com

Holiday House NYC’s Fall 2022 Designer Showhouse event will be running through December 11thwith general admission tickets priced at $40. The Young Designers Night will be held on November 17th and the Industry Night will be held on December 1st. Tickets can be purchased here. 

All the Fall Feels at Sesamo in Hells Kitchen

Sesamo, Italian meets Asian comfort food, is a fusion concept that is not heavily prevalent in the NYC food scene. The restaurant name, which means sesame seeds in Italian, a common ingredient in Asian cuisine. Executive Chef Sandy Dee Hall, previously from Black Tree and Flatiron Room, has crafted the Italian menu with an Asian twist, and Itameshi-style cuisine. The restaurant’s name is also inspired by the book One Thousand and One Nights, wherein the magical phrase “Open Sesame” opens a cave that leads to treasure. 

 Sesamo’s first time restauranteur co-owners, Sabrina Gao and Nikita Levitan hope the restaurant creates a warm, inviting environment to have a meal, and they’ve done just that.  Sesamo is off the radar now because they opened stealthily during the pandemic almost a year ago. Located off 10th Avenue, the walk west is well worth it. Nestled into some corner real estate, this cozy establishment is serving up some serious seasonal eats.

While at Sesame on a Friday, afternoon, we tried some of the fusion items that are present on most menus, but with a twist that makes it special at the restaurant. We started with the Sesamo Caesar Salad, served with local Satur Farm little gem lettuce, but kicked up a nosh with 5 spice croutons and fish sauce. The toasted seeds sprinkled throughout gave the salad a good texture. Following that was the Salmon Crostini, another typical lunch staple, but beautifully plated and spruced up with pomegranate seeds and mustard ricotta, a delightful combination.

The dishes that came next were the stars of the show in my opinion. I still have dreams of the Kambocha Squash, a recommendation from our server. Added as a new addition to the fall menu, the spiced herb crusted maple roasted squashed with browned meringue is meant to be reminiscent of sweet potatoes with marshmallows you may have with Thanksgiving dinner. It was not too sweet and each bite was like a hug. The Lobster Tortelloni was also phenomenal, chock-full of lobster and each bite was complemented by the refreshing Thai basil mint pesto. We also tried the Mackerel Carbonara, Chef Sandy’s take on a traditional carbonara but made for people who usually cannot have it due to the traditional addition of pork. The mackerel is chopped and cooked to be reminiscent of pancetta or bacon pieces that are usually included in the dish and then enveloped in the usual decadent egg and cream sauce.

Because we wanted to try so many things, we ordered pretty aggressively for lunch, but keep in mind, portions are large and fulfilling, so no need to over order unless you want leftovers. While we couldn’t get to everything, we were told the Duck Ragu Pappardelle, Uni Bucatini, Wasabi Burger and Tsien Sien Chili Shakshuka are all popular, but we’ll need to save those for another time. We also didn’t drink during lunch, but we noticed boba cocktails were at the forefront!

The restaurant also does tons to incentivize customers. There is a lunch prix-fixe for $31, including a salad, main, matcha tiramisu and coffee/tea, bottomless brunch on the weekends for $32, and happy hour daily from 4pm-7pm with $2 oysters, discounted small plates and drinks, so it really is a no brainer to plan a visit.

For more information on Sesamo or to make a reservation to visit yourself, please visit sesamorestaurant.com.

Chiotes Hall Launch with Amali

On November 1, the newest event space on the Upper East Side, Chiotes Hall, opened its doors to its first event. Hosted by Civetta Hospitality and catered by Amali, the event garnered much excitement. The new venue is unique, nestled against a Greek Orthodox church and sharing the same high ceilings and grandeur as its neighbor.

To celebrate the opening, the inaugural event featured talent from 4AM’s Director of Events, Chris Bachmann, such as a DJ and an array of live music. The stage is suited for both performances and speaking events.

Amali, which will oversee the food and beverage for the event space, specializes in locally-sourced and sustainable Mediterranean cuisine. At the event, the hor d'oeuvres were evidently Greek and Italian inspired, which matched the earth-toned decoration and gold-accented furniture in the space. In addition, the space features an onsite kitchen and a bar near the entrance to the space.

Chiotes Hall has a capacity for 150 seated guests, and up to 200 for receptions. This new event space is now available for booking reservations.

Why you should go to Exxxotica

Attending Exxxotica, one of the largest adult industry events in America, is an experience unlike anything else. The convention ran this past weekend from Friday (10/21) to Sunday (10/23) and was hosted at the New Jersey Convention Center.

The general consensus is that the primary audience at Exxxotica will be single males looking to meet their favorite pornstars and cam girls in person. But that wasn't the case. Attendees came from essentially every conceivable background. Spanning in age from 20s to 60s, there were straight-laced businessmen; rural lads wearing cowboy hats; goths; and everyone in between. Seeing many diverse individuals from various societal groups smiling, laughing, and getting along was interesting to witness in its own unique manner. The surprising thing to see was the number of couples. There were so many attendees holding their partners’ hands and giggling, having the best time of the whole experience.

Exxxotica is much more than simply a place where you can go and meet pornstars. While that is a major component of it and the main reason why so many people go there, there is, however, a ton more to see and do. One of the biggest attractions at the convention are the exhibit booths. Think of any food or wine tasting event you've ever been to. They are raucous and busy, and instead of providing a fully immersive dining or drinking experience, they just provide little samples as you move from booth to booth and stage to stage. In this case, you will find booths set up to sell sex toys, porn DVDs, erotica, and a lot of marijuana. Approximately 80% of the display booths also showcased porn stars, chat room girls, or dancers/strippers. They strolled around the room looking hot while signing autographs and posing for photos. Small bikini tops, micromini skirts, and six-inch heels were the norm. However, a sizable portion of the population chose to expose even more skin by only wearing thongs, pasties, and other forms of scanty garments.

In addition to the vendor stalls, there was live entertainment such as burlesque, kink, pole dancing, and Ms. Exxxotica contests. There was what seemed like a "cam-off" going on between Chaturbate and MyFreeCams.com, with tables of live cam models from both sites facing off across the walkway.

Then came the parts that were more experiential. Visitors could participate in the "Dungeon Experience," which included being flogged or restrained, or choose to attend one of the numerous seminars, which covered topics like how to succeed in adult business and the fundamentals of butt sex.

It takes some getting accustomed to when you're chatting casually with a topless lady, but eventually you understand that there’s no reason to be uncomfortable. Porn has long divided feminists. Anti-porn campaigners say porn objectifies its subjects, promotes sexual violence, and promotes unrealistic sex. Feminists who embrace the porn business, particularly those who work in it, argue that our bodies, our choice.

When you meet them in person, you immediately realize that they are sincerely and deeply enthusiastic about their careers. They represent the idea that beauty comes in many different forms and are sex-positive and body-positive individuals. They are unfailingly upbeat individuals with fantastic perspectives on sex, love, and life. They have a great attitude towards life, sex, and love. Go to Exxxotica and you may just learn something about yourself.

Halloween Happenings All Over Town

It's time to get into a spooky attitude now that Halloween is just around the corner.  It is well known that NYC does the Halloween parties, and we anticipate that this year won't be any different. Everyone may experience a little Halloween magic, regardless of whether they enjoy dressing up in costumes, being frightened in haunted houses, or simply enjoying the fall decorations. We compiled a list of the last minute Halloween activities in New York City this weekend. 

Dances of Vice: Black Magic Halloween Ball

This Halloween, we’ve conjured a sumptuous sabbath of Halloween black magic to initiate you into the dark arts. This bewitching bacchanal will feature a theatrical Grand Guignol in three diabolical acts, replete with occult incantations, adulterous exorcisms, voodoo rituals, and a fiery trial by ordeal.

On the dance floor, devilish DJs will weave raucous spells to incite agile limbs to a frenzied St Vitus’ dance. In the VIP dungeon, equipped with the appliances of torment and pleasure, dommes will hex and heal consenting patrons eager to explore their limits in the pleasures of bondage, domination, submission and masochism.

Dungeon access is granted with VIP Ticket only. GA tickets are standing room only. Our costumed dress code will be strictly enforced. If your attire is not turning heads, you will be refused entry at the door.

MAINSTAGE SHOWS @ 11:30pm, 12:30am , 1:30am

AGE RESTRICTION: All attendees must be 21+ for entry (valid photo ID required).

Purchase tickets here

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Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch at Domino Park

Greg's Trees transformed Domino Park (South 1 St. & River St.) into Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch, which is open now through October 31st from 9am - 9pm daily with events and attractions for the whole family.  Expect a massive selection of pumpkins and Halloween decor along with a haystack maze for little ones, pumpkin painting and carving daily, Instagram-able photo opps and activities galore. 

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Hidden Lane has a Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini Coming to the Menu

Hidden Lane (129 E 15th Street) will officially launch a new seasonal cocktail menu beginning on October 17th that includes a can’t miss Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini complete with cinnamon, pumpkin spice and espresso! The specialty seasonal drink will be the first of many autumn inspired cocktails debuting this month. For more information visit, http://www.hiddenlanebar.com

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Celebrate Hallo-Whine at Bar Schimmi on Friday 10/28

Get ready for Hallo-Whine at Schimanski’s Bar Schimmi (60 N 11th St) on Friday, October 28th from 10 p.m to 4 a.m!  Prepare to spend the evening on your feet jamming to your favorite hip-shaking tunes. Guests will have access to a dazzling dance floor, a full-service bar, and island vibes while listening to special guest performances from DJ Billionaire Pat, DJ Hell Rell, and DJ Chris John. Enjoy the music and ambiance while sipping your fave drinks at the bar or order VIP bottle service for your squad by emailing vip@schimanskinyc.com.  And in the main room at Schimanski, TECHNO BKLYN x KLANDEST invite you to get lost in trance with special live performances from Indira Paganotto, Joyhauser and Niia Guerra. Make the night monumental and order VIP bottle service by emailing vip@schimanskinyc.com.  

Get tickets online by visiting, seetickets.us/hallowhine or https://schimanskinyc.com.

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Enjoy Frightening Fun at Slate's Nightmare On 21st Street Party on Friday 10/28

Never sleep again! Get your costumes ready for an epic Halloween soiree at Slate (54 West 21st St) on Friday, October 28th at 8:00 PM to October 29th at 4:00 AM, inspired by one of the greatest horror films of all time, Nightmare on Elm Street! To kick off the Halloween festivities, Slate will host two floors of epic music throughout the night including DJ Fotsbeats upstairs and DJ Kaution downstairs! Celebrate all night while enjoying the chic décor, sipping on your favorite drinks and letting loose on the spacious premier lounge dancefloors. 

To purchase tickets or reserve VIP packages visit, https://slate.ticketsauce.com/e/halloween-weekend-slate-friday-10-28 

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Pickle: Support by Firpo: presented by The Somethings: Halloween Weekend on Friday 10/28

Kick-off your Halloween weekend with a sprinkle of art, fantasy and gnomes at The Somethings party at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Friday, October 28th! The Somethings will offer a night filled with NFTs, magic and futuristic art. Surrender to a world of goblets, glowing orbs and floating islands!  Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, https://www.halloweenweekend.com 

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Zombies on the Loose at Haven Rooftop

Haven Rooftop above the Sanctuary Hotel (132 W. 47th Street) in Midtown will host Zombies On The Loose on Saturday, October 29th with food and drink specials and a costume contest. More information can be found by visiting, https://havenrooftop.com/

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Party with Jessie’s Girl at Stranger Hallow-Things at City Winery NYC on Saturday 10/29

Celebrate Halloween Weekend with some Sci Fi, spooky and costumed fun at a Stranger Hallow-Things party at City Winery (25 11th Avenue) on Saturday, October 29th beginning at 11pm.  Fun Music Presents will host this otherworldly evening devoted to the '80s tunes that were popularized all over again thanks to the hit series Stranger Things!  Dance to live cover music from the band Jessie’s Girl beginning at the stroke of midnight. Before and after the concert, guest DJ Stef Nava will spin a mix of today's top 40 songs and anthems from the 1980s and beyond to allow every partygoer to unleash their inner Eleven and get turned upside down!

Tickets can be purchased by visiting: https://www.funmusicpresents.com 

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Attend Haunting on the UWS at e’s BAR on Saturday 10/29

Rock out on Saturday, October 29th during Haunting on the UWS at e’s BAR (511 Amsterdam Ave)! The special Karaoke party will include a costume contest where the best dressed will win a $100 bar tab. A live special guest DJ will spin tunes all night and there’s no cover fee! Chow down on elevated bar food classics, sip from their massive beer and cocktail list, play fun tabletop games, and sing alongside lively crowds. Doors will open at 8:00pm.

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Moojo: Support by Forest Down Under: Halloween Weekend on Saturday 10/29

Grab your spot at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.), which will be decked out in decor exemplifying the Seven Deadly Sins to catch DJ Moojo live on Saturday, October 29th for a Halloween Weekend blowout. Listen to a live set from DJ Moojo who has been touring the globe since his musical debut at the age of 14 and is the founder of the independent label Calamar Records. Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, 

https://www.halloweenweekend.com 

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Daintree Hosts A View to Kill Rooftop Halloween Party on Saturday 10/29 

Daintree (25 W 38th St.)  is hosting A View to Kill, a rooftop soiree in the sky atop Hotel Hendrick’s to celebrate Halloween on Saturday, October 29th at 10:00 p.m! Add a little glitz and glamour to your haunted weekend by enjoying Daintree’s one-of-a-kind view of NYC’s skyline, carefully curated Fall cocktails and music from Guest DJ throughout the evening. Treat yourself to small plates inspired by Aussie-Asian cuisine fusion like Chicken Salt and Seaweed Popcorn, Caviar and Chips and tempting plates of Oyster and a drink reimagine New York classics, and distinct Australian wines. VIP packages and tickets, starting at $15 for GA, can be purchased by  visiting, https://krispi.ticketsauce.com/e/daintree1029. 

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Enjoy Good Vibrations: Halloween at Schimanski on Saturday 10/29

Lighten up Halloween weekend with Good Vibrations: Halloween, a high-energy costume party at Schimanski (54 N. 11th St) on Saturday, October, 29th from 10 p.m to 4 a.m!

Tear up the dance floor to the greatest Dancehall, Reggae, Afrobeats, and Hip Hop hits while wearing your best costume and indulge at the full-service bar throughout the night! Special hosts Wallay, Boye, Rahilou, and Mr. Shawtyme will keep the entertainment moving along and the fun coming into the next morning. Attendees can dance all night to live music from SB Sounds, Sydney Love, Citizen B, Spindoll, and AQ. One lucky party-goer will have the chance to win a $500 cash prize for the best costume.  RSVP online by visiting, seetickets.us/goodhalloween 

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Slate Hosts a Forbidden Palace Halloween Party on Saturday 10/29

This Halloween, uncover the secrets of the Forbidden Palace at Slate (54 W. 21st St.) with a 1-hour vodka bar from 8pm - 9pm and a live DJ performance. A premier lounge with a sprawling space, Slate beckons you to come beyond velvet curtains to join a live DJ dance party with New York’s beautiful creatures. Indulge and choose one of Slate’s VIP table packages for bottle service and other amenities. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets for this event begin at $20 and can be purchased by visiting, https://slate.ticketsauce.com/e/halloween-party-slate-saturday-10-29

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Sapphire 60 Hosts Nick Cannon’s Wild Halloween N Treats Out Sunday Sins Party on 10/30

Get spooky with American television host, actor, rapper, and comedian Nick Cannon live at Sapphire 60 (333 E 60th St) on Sunday, October 30th for Nick Cannon’s Wild Halloween N Treats Out Party. The special Sunday Sins event will be full of seasonal fun and entertainment from Nick, known for The Nick Cannon Show, Wild 'n Out, America's Got Talent, Lip Sync Battle Shorties, and The Masked Singer. Purchase VIP bottle packages and enjoy the entertainment including Sapphire's most talented dancers. Tickets and Bottle packages can be reserved by visiting, http://nysapphire.com. 

Find more event information at https://www.sinsny.com

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Monolink Presented by Forest Down Under & Firpo: Halloween Weekend on 10/30

Surrender to the enchanted tunes of Electronic and Dance musician DJ Firpo during an exclusive performance at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Sunday, October 30th! Lose yourself to the rhythm of hit songs and take in the exhilarating air of pre-Halloween anticipation.

Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, https://www.sevenrooms.com/events/somewherenowhere. 

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The Villains’ Ball (Halloween Night) with Rick Wonder: Best Costume Wins $1000 Cash

Get your 'ghouls' together for The Villains’ Ball at Somewhere Nowhere (112 W 25th St.) on Monday, October 31st! Give into your darkest desires and dress as your favorite villain.  Sip on cocktails and hit the dance floor to dance to tracks from Rick Wonder during the special evening where one lucky guest will take home a $1000 cash prize for best costume. Purchase tickets and VIP bottle packages by visiting, www.halloweenweekend.com

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Nebula Hosts Costume Couture on Halloween Night 10/31

Nebula (135 W. 41st St) is celebrating Halloween night with an over the top Costume Couture Party hosted by La La and Lenny S. on Monday, October 31st.  The all-nighter, which kicks off at 10pm is sponsored by RHUDE and Lobos 1707.  Guests wearing their best Halloween costumes can take to the dancefloor while Dj Gigi Rosa, DJ Boof and First Choice spin tunes all night. RSVP via email to NYCostumeCouture@gmail.com

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enCourage Kids Serving Up Smiles 2022

Wesley & Hall Family

The enCourage Kids Foundation (EKF) held Serving Up Smiles on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, at The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers. This exquisite tasting event included delicious dishes from top chefs and restaurants in New York City, a VIP Lounge, top-notch wines, drinks, and fantastic auction items. Chef Ralph Scamardella (Chef & Partner TAO Group Hospitality) served as Culinary Chair while ABC Sports Anchor Ryan Field emceed the event.

The food and drinks were donated by Alvin & Friends, Avo Taco, bakeyorey, Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse, Bryant Park Grill, Butter, HappyBoards, LAVO New York, Robert, Sfoglia, Spice Culture, Sweets to Crave, TAO Uptown, B. Stuyvesant Champagne, Dr. Perricone Hydrogen Water, Fever-Tree, FIJI Water, Jade Sparkling Wine, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, Landmark Vineyards, Newburgh Brewing Company, Owl’s Brew, Revel Spirits Inc., Shinju Japanese Whiskey, Whitley Neill Gin, and Zyr Vodka.

“All of us at enCourage Kids are beyond grateful for the continued support of our donors, sponsors, and guests who are committed to the work of our organization. It was a special night to honor the late Michele Hall Duncan, our former president & CEO, and acknowledge her hard work throughout the years. We are committed to our mission to make hospitals a better place to get better and we will continue to support our enCourage Kids families, "said Joe Wessely, Board Chair of enCourage Kids Foundation.

A touching tribute film was shown in honor of Michele Hall Duncan, the late president and CEO of the enCourage Kids Foundation, who lost her fight with metastatic breast cancer in June. The son of Michele Duncan, Wesley Duncan, honored his mother's 26 years of service to the organization with a emotional and profound speech. The Michele Hall-Duncan Child Life Hero award, which will be given annually to honor a child life specialist for their exceptional devotion and commitment to pediatric patients, was just created by the organization. Another method to pay tribute to Michele's legacy is via a donation that will be given to the recipient's institution to support a pediatric program. The first prize will be presented at the enCourage Kids Gala in 2023.

MJ, Erik, Joe, Joe, Charles, Ryan, Wesley, Matt

Erik Coleman (Former NFL Safety & MSG Commentator of Odds with Ends), Jimmy Leyritz (Twice NY Yankees World Series Champion), Tony Richardson (NFL Legend & Sports Commentator), and Matt Brust (Former NBA Forward & Finance Expert), who attended, were committed to the mission of enCourage Kids. They took pleasure in eating and dancing the night away to the music of the Live Wire Band.

Event sponsors included ARK RESTAURANTS, BRYANT PARK GRILL, CAPITAL ONE, COUGAR Capital, The Donut Pub, Feil Family Foundation, GFP Real Estate, ROBERT, Signature Bank, Lucy and David Ball, Goldberg Weprin Finkel Goldstein LLP, CUSHMAN & WAKEFIELD, BUCHBINDER & WARREN, and Emerson Amusements Company.

Hospitals may be made better places to heal because of the life-changing initiatives offered by EKF. Their flagship program, the Jay Anderson Pediatric Hospital Support Program, provides funding to hospitals for a range of initiatives, including facility dogs for children and pediatric staff, music and creative arts therapy programs, and music therapy programs. The enCourage Kids Bear initiative gives soft teddy bears to young patients who desperately need comfort. These bears also serve as an important educational tool for children to learn coping mechanisms.

Board Members

In order to start a program for mental health comfort kits, the group was given a grant this year by the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation to start a program for mental health comfort kits. They created three separate comfort kits containing safe products that may be provided to hospitalized children with mental health problems, especially those who are on a psychiatric hold or watch, after receiving feedback from their panel of healthcare specialists from all around the nation. 2,500 comfort packages are being provided under the funding for the children treated at 4 NYC Health + Hospitals centers.

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience in Westchester

Whether or not you're a Harry Potter fan, Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience is a must-see. The experience is essentially a walking track through a real forest filled with fantastic creatures and interactive fun in Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, which is a little over an hour's drive north of New York City. 

At the entryway, a statue of Harry Potter's stag Patronus keeps watch. Adjacent to the statue, visitors will discover a Hogsmeade-style village where they can find hot beverages or a cool glass of non-alcoholic butterbeer, as well as confectionery shops, snack shops, and gift shops.

As you continue on the voyage, a witch or wizard who displays their deluminator abilities may be found along a lighted route. The journey through the lit-up forest then starts, with the music from the movies playing throughout and the trees and lights creating a surreal, almost otherworldly ambiance.

At the start of the trail, you will encounter Rubeus Hagrid and his trusty sidekick, Fang. As you make your way further into the Forbidden Forest, you'll see Buckbeak the Hippogriff, Nifflers guarding their valuables, centaurs, acromantulas and many more. There are unexpected surprises around every corner.

The whole event is interactive, so individuals who wish to dress in their Hogwarts House robes and wand may take pictures, fight, or use the Patronus spell. Spells may be performed using specialized wands that will be given.

Another rest stop and facilities are located halfway down the path, so you may stop there before continuing into the forest. Visitors are led to a spectacular conclusion before departing the event, which sends them into the gift store.

You will be sorry if you miss this experience! When you go, be sure to bundle up and wear outdoor shoes since this is an outdoor winter event in the forest of NY. As part of the experience's partnership with One Tree Planted, visitors have the opportunity to donate the cost of a tree, which will support sustainability and forestry initiatives. Donating $1 buys a tree within One Tree Planted's projects and contributes towards creating the forests of the future.

For more information and tickets please visit: https://hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/westchester/

Wilderton Launch at the Midnight Cafe

Planning on staying sober for your next night out? Whether you’re the designated driver (subway handler) or cutting back on your alcohol consumption (a wise move), we recommend Wilderton’s latest non-alcoholic spirit: Bittersweet Apertivito. 

A love child between Campari, Aperol and sweet vermouth, Bittersweet Aperitivo is a botanical journey that manages to be spicy and smoky on top of bright and citrusy. During its launch at the Midnight Cafe in Hudson Yards, these flavors came through when the spirit was mixed by cocktail expert Iain Griffiths to make several non-traditional drinks that were equal parts refreshing and delicious. It is definitely worth a try, even if you are a committed casual drinker. 

Pairing with the drinks were bites from the mind of Chef Chai Trivedi, including bacon wrapped shrimp, deviled eggs, and mushroom spring rolls. Guests of the event were also able to make their own custom scent thanks to an Olfactory DIY station—I was able to walk away with a new rhubarb and freesia scent that earned compliments from everyone in the room.

So the next time you’d like to have an aperitivo without it actually being an aperitivo, check out Wilderton and their range of non-alcoholic spirits. Between their woodsy Earthen and floral Lustre, you’ll be sure to find a drink that’ll have you saying cheers while still keeping your wits.

Follow @wilderton_free for more updates on their spirits, and be sure to stop by @midnightcafenyc for even more deliciousness. 

Sally Can Wait Evokes Vintage Miami Vibes in LES

Sally Can Wait, an 80’s inspired bar with a Miami Vice-inspired aesthetic, welcomes you into a neon oasis from the concrete jungle.  "Oy Empingao,” the restaurant’s motto emblazoned on the wall references the cultures that influence the bar’s theme, pairing the Jewish term for shock and amazement with the Cuban phrase for "so awesome."  

The space opened under the radar almost a year ago with industry vets Matt Friedlander, coming from Sweetwater Social and Grand Banks, and Zak Snyder, also from Grand Banks, Balthazar, and Analogue. The duo wanted to put together a concept that was fun and casual with a heavy hand of serious cocktails.

We started our experience with a trip down memory lane with an Ecto Cooler, a delightful adult take on the childhood drink, comprised of mezcal, Midori, honeydew lime syrup, and trendy kalamansi, a favorite of the owners. I still have dreams about this cocktail. The bar also has all the frozen drinks you can imagine that you usually get on vacation in Florida and more concoctions that I have yet to try.

Much like the cocktails, the food has a fun twist on usual bar bites. The menu, which Snyder is responsible for, includes the quintessential latkes with all the fixins and Cubano sandwich to cover off on both the Latin and Jewish categories that the restaurant represents. “The Burger,” which includes caramelized onions and special sauce, is not to be missed, and while tots are simple, they are also simply delicious.

Sally Can Wait is the perfect local tropical getaway without leaving the city. To experience Miami vibes year-round, please visit sallycanwait.com to make a reservation or just drop in for their weekday happy hour. You’ll probably find me at the bar with my Ecto Cooler trying more items off the food menu.

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