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It's time for Playful Learning - The must-stop educational shop opens in Sag Harbor

2010-06-10T13:27:00.002-04:00

It's time for Playful Learning - The must-stop educational shop opens in Sag Harbor
June 10, 2010

Calling all Hamptonites—have plans yet for this Saturday (June 12, 2010)? Bring the kids and kick off the weekend at the Grand Opening of Playful Learning, the ultimate educational one-stop-shop and toy store. Browse through the handpicked selection of toys, art supplies, interesting books and more while your children take part in educational crafts and munch on organic snacks! Learn about Playful Learning’s engaging Summer Workshops—it’s not too late to register for sessions including, Keeping A Writer’s Notebook, Word Play, Explorations in Art, and Parents Workshop: Playful Learning Experiences.

Playful Learning is an extension of the Parents’ Choice Award-winning website PlayfulLearning.net. Following the mantra “Experience. Discover. Grow.”, Mariah Bruehl created the website to share useful and interesting information with families regarding the growth and development of their children—based on her years of experience as an educator, teacher and mother. The website is designed to help families with planning and preparing for playful learning experiences, allowing users to collaborate and learn from each other—look out for Bruehl’s upcoming book Playful Learning, expected for publication in Summer 2011. Playful Learning was created to become another valuable resource for children and parents, in addition to the website, as well as a place to spend quality time together. By carrying favorite children’s books, games, toys, writing materials and scientific tools, Mariah’s goal is to provide products that are a good match between a child’s stage of development and current interests. Welcome to Playful Learning, a Sag Harbor stop, where families can enhance children’s explorations, interests, imaginations and passions.

PLAYFUL LEARNING
78 Main Street #14
Sag Harbor, New York 11963
T: 631-889-4406
www.playfullearning.net

Oso Restaurant at Southampton Inn - The Hamptons hotspot serves up a fresh twist on local fare

2010-06-07T16:16:00.002-04:00

Oso Restaurant at Southampton Inn - The Hamptons hotspot serves up a fresh twist on local fare
June 7, 2010

What better way to enjoy the East End’s farm fresh ingredients and local seafood than al fresco by Southampton Inn’s new pool? This summer, indulge in OSO At Southampton Inn for a taste of classic Hamptons hospitality.

OSO’s Executive Chef Bryan Naylor delights foodies with a creative take on Modern American fare served poolside, as well as under the summer sky in the courtyard or inside the intimately decorated dining room. Signature-dishes offer diners an innovative twist on local favorites, including Lobster Café au Lait (Cognac Foam, lobster ‘swizzle stick’) and Chioga Beet Carpaccio (local arugula, Catapano Farms goat cheese, citrus mist, almond oil). Sipping cocktails in the courtyard? Try the sweet White Grape Mojito (10 Cane, mint, grape, lime, simple syrup) or the refreshing Pacific (Crop Cucumber Vodka, dry saki).

Whether a guest at the Inn or not, visit OSO and start your morning with a refreshing breakfast, featuring local farm fresh ingredients, freshly squeezed juices, and baked goods, prepared on-premise in the Inn’s new state-of-the-art kitchen. On sunny summer afternoons, the library is a perfect spot to relax and sip iced tea.

Chef Naylor prides himself on crafting menus with an elegant, refined palate infused with the casual allure of the Hamptons.

About Southampton Inn: An idyllic East End escape for bustling city-dwellers, the Southampton Inn is nestled on more-than-five acres of manicured lawns and lushly landscaped grounds. The perfect Hamptons home-away-from-home for any traveler, Southampton Inn is steps away from designer boutiques, quaint and fine dining, art galleries, parks and museums, and just over a mile from Coopers Beach. A local landmark, the casual-chic, Tudor-style Inn is home to ninety recently-renovated guestrooms, each individually decorated to reflect the effortlessly stylish allure of the Hamptons.

OSO at Southampton Inn
91 Hill Street
Southampton, NY 11968
T: 631-283-1166
www.southamptoninn.com/dining

New York Post: Page Six: Happy landings

2010-06-06T15:43:00.001-04:00

Page Six in The New York Post ran the following article today;
June 6, 2010

Blue Star Jets isn't just a name in the "Wall Street" sequel but a real company. Founders Todd Rome and Ricky Sitomer were inspired by the 1987 original -- in which Charlie Sheen's character becomes an exec of Blue Star Airlines.

Then Blue Star was written into "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps" after a chance meeting at the Waverly Inn between director Oliver Stone and publicist Norah Lawlor, who told him it was now a real company.

Read more

Lawrence Herbert - The King of Color

2010-06-03T00:30:00.002-04:00

Lawrence Herbert - The King of Color

Lawrence Herbert is the founder of Pantone, Inc., the world’s premier color standards company and color authority. As the creative force behind the development of color systems that have set the standard for global communication of color in a number of industries – printing, publishing, packaging, graphic arts, paint, plastics, coatings, computer, film, video, textiles, and fashion – Herbert’s life and work are explored in the book, The King of Color, written by Herbert with Linda Mead, co-author of bestselling-book, You’ve Earned It, Don’t Lose It with Suze Orman, and her own Investing With Giants.

As discussed in The King of Color, Herbert’s success in the printing industry was never part of his life plan. In 1956, out of the US Army for two years where he completed military service in the Korean War, Herbert had hopes of attending medical schools and was in search of a job that could fund such educational pursuits.

Holding a BA from Hofstra University, Herbert eventually walked into the New York City offices of Pantone Press in hopes of landing a position. At Pantone Press, Herbert not only found the job he sought, but also an education in printing, color dynamics and business insight, which soon developed into an idea that would revolutionize the world of color. As time passed at Pantone Press, Herbert noticed that color matching in the print industry was often fickle and unreliable. Print clients that requested one color, often times received the wrong variation. After a while, Herbert took it upon himself to change such inconsistency through the development of a system that would result in predictable printed colors at all times, anywhere in the world. Proving himself a skilled, determined worker and true visionary, Herbert abandoned his plans for medical school and eventually purchased Pantone Press in 1962, one year before developing a revolutionary color standards system.

The result? The Pantone Matching System. As The King of Color details, The Pantone Matching System took the world by storm, becoming the basis upon which he and his family would soon develop similar systems for plastic, fabric, electronics, paint and so forth, and consult with branding companies in creating their palettes.

Today, Pantone oversees its multinational company from an 80,000 square foot facility in New Jersey with branches around the globe, including locations in the United Kingdom, Germany, Hong Kong, China, Japan and India.

Herbert’s successes have garnered him the Hall of Fame Award from the New Jersey Advertising Hall of Fame and Gold Medal from Britain’s Institute of Printing. In 1995, the Association of the Graphic Arts presented Herbert with the prestigious “Power of Printing” Award. In 2001, Herbert received the Platinum Corporate Legend Award from Pratt Institute. Herbert has received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the university. In 1996, Hofstra University also inaugurated the Lawrence Herbert Distinguished Professorship Chair in his honor. Herbert serves on the Boards of the New York City Ballet and the American Film Institute and is a substantial supporter of many cultural institutions and health charities. He has received the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations Ellis Island Gold Medal of Honor and was appointed to the City of New York Cultural Advisory Board by former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and to the New York State Council on the Arts by former New York Governor George Pataki. Most recently, Herbert has been named a Corporate Honoree by the School of American Ballet.

The King of Color
Written by Lawrence Herbert with Linda Mead
$24.95 USD Product No. DBR105

The Insider's Guide: What's Hot for the Hamptons in 2010

2010-06-01T13:49:00.002-04:00

The Insider's Guide: What's Hot for the Hamptons in 2010
June 1, 2010

The summer season has arrived which means New Yorkers are switching gears and slowing their pace in anticipation of enjoying sunny days by the beach. Not sure where to stay, where to eat or what events to attend? Not to worry—here is your insider’s guide to everything you need to know about the Hamptons and more. From the best restaurant to grab a bite en route to the East End (or on your way home!) and the hottest hotel for your weekend jaunt, to the best of the exclusive fashion scene and the premier Hamptons social event—start planning for a summer to remember.

On Your Way to the Hamptons... Or on Your Way Back

CHEF GREGORY BAUMEL’S THE STONE TURTLE RESTAURANT
o Offering guests an unparalleled culinary experience, Executive Chef Gregory Baumel shares his imaginative take on Eclectic cuisine – everyday food with a twist – crafted with the season’s freshest ingredients, many of which are organic and locally sourced.
o A playful sense of whimsy and fun has returned to fine dining, as guests step inside The Stone Turtle Restaurant, they are greeted by a brightly colored décor, met with exposed brick and wood embodies the eatery’s casual elegance and charm.
o Stone Turtle’s Small Plates are ideal for those seeking a quick bite on the road and include Screaming Oysters (Freshly Shucked East Coast Oysters lightly poached in a sauce of Sake, Oyster Sauce, Chilis and Cilantro served with Crostini). Thirsty? Try the Hare of the Turtle (Bacardi® Superior Rum, club soda, mint leaves, jalapeno, lime, sugar, topped with Cotton Candy garnish), or the Stone Turtle Beer Sampler, which includes four 5oz. draft beers from the eatery’s twelve-beer selection. For those with a sweet tooth be sure to indulge with a selection or two from the Chocolate and Nothing But Chocolate Dessert Menu— the decadent, all-chocolate menu offers playful signature sweet treats such as The Dirty Ashtray and Chocolate Jalapeno “Chipwich Sandwich.”
o If you can’t make the stop, Executive Chef Gregory Baumel also makes “House Calls” upon request, personally crafting and creating a special menu based upon his client’s tastes and wishes.
4160 Austin Blvd.
Island Park, NY 11558
T: 516-431-6570
www.thestoneturtlerestaurant.com

WHERE TO STAY:

MONTAUK: PANORAMIC VIEW RESORT; RESIDENCES
o RESORT:
• A renowned Hamptons destination for over fifty years, this magnificent property encompasses 10+ oceanfront acres on 1,000-feet of sandy white beach. Every guestroom, suite and beach cottage overlooks a spectacular seascape. Resort amenities include: a pool complete with private lounges and cabanas affording spectacular ocean views, exclusive, quiet beach with personal attendants, fitness center, business center, concierge, porter and daily maid services, plush king-sized beds, fully-equipped kitchenette, television, phone, heat and air conditioning. All rental units – efficiency studios as well as one-and-two-bedroom units – feature picturesque windows that highlight the stunning view, as well as a private terrace or balcony.
o RESIDENCES:
• A true East End getaway for bustling New Yorkers, the Panoramic View Residences offer luxury living at its best— your full-service doorman building on the ocean. The perfect second home and seaside escape, the property’s year-round staff ensures that every need is met, from a fully-stocked refrigerator to the delivery of mail or dry cleaning. The Panoramic View promises residents the ultimate rest and relaxation experience. Amenities include poolside cabanas, fitness center, concierge service, porters, beach and pool attendants, on-site housekeeping, on-call massage therapists and fitness trainers. The Panoramic View Residences offer heavenly oceanfront living with none of the hassles associated with oceanfront home ownership. Boasting breathtaking ocean views, the Panoramic Residences range in size and price to suit your specific needs; featured are one-to-five bedroom units, from 1,200-square-feet to 4,500-square-feet, available from under $2 million to $6 million.
272 Old Montauk Highway
Montauk, NY‎ 11954
T: 631-668-3000
www.panoramicview.com

AMAGANSETT: SEA CREST ON THE OCEAN RESORT; RESIDENCES
o RESORT:
• Sea Crest on the Ocean offers exclusive seaside units, spanning 8.3 acres, nestled between Montauk and Amagansett. With 74 units – comprised of studios, one, two and three-bedroom fully equipped units – Sea Crest on the Ocean is the perfect site for a luxurious resort escape. Having recently completed an extensive renovation, guests are invited to indulge in the many luxurious Sea Crest Amenities—an outdoor heated swimming pool, private tennis courts, children’s play area, daily housekeeping service, picnic and barbecue areas. Enjoy the private beach with chairs, umbrella and towel services.
o RESIDENCES:
• For those who want to call Sea Crest home, units are also available for ownership—ideal for all ages, from young families who are looking to spend affordable yet memorable summers with their kids to retired couples looking to enjoy quiet time on the ocean. Distinctive Management eliminates the worries and stress of owning a second home. As a complete property management company, all home maintenance is taken care of. Monthly billing and expenses are a snap with the One Bill System. A residence at Sea Crest can even be acquired fully decorated and furnished—perfect for those busy buyers who aren’t looking commit to a big home decorating project.
2166 Montauk Highway
Amagansett, NY 11930
T: 631-267-3159
www.seacrestontheocean.com

SOUTHAMPTON: SOUTHAMPTON INN A local landmark and idyllic East End escape for bustling city-dwellers, the casual-chic, Tudor-style Southampton Inn is home to ninety recently-renovated guestrooms, each individually decorated to reflect the effortlessly stylish allure of the Hamptons.
o The perfect Hamptons home-away-from-home for any traveler, Southampton Inn is steps away from designer boutiques, quaint and fine dining, art galleries, parks and museums, and just over a mile from renowned Coopers Beach. In addition to its ninety guestrooms, the Southampton Inn’s 5.5-acre campus includes a conference center, OSO Restaurant and 71 Hill Street— the premier office complex in Southampton Village.
o Amenities include: outdoor heated fifty-foot pool and adjacent al fresco dining; all-weather tennis court; Gilchrist & Soames toiletries; complimentary shuttle service to Coopers Beach throughout the season; and library with fireplace, just to name a few. In addition, for a true getaway, a collection of exciting excursions can be arranged through the Southampton Inn Concierge Service.
91 Hill Street
Southampton, NY‎ 11968
T: 631-283-6500
www.southamptoninn.com

WHERE TO DINE…

OSO AT SOUTHAMPTON INN
o Classic Hamptons hospitality meets the modern palate at OSO At Southampton Inn— throughout the Hamptons summer season, OSO delights foodies with a creative take on Modern American fare served poolside, al fresco in the courtyard or inside in the intimately decorated dining room.
o In addition, Southampton Inn guests are awoken by a refreshing breakfast, featuring local farm fresh ingredients, freshly squeezed juices, and baked goods, prepared on-premise in the Inn’s new state-of-the-art kitchen. During summer afternoons, iced tea or lemonade are complimentary in the library; throughout the fall, winter and spring month, guests are treated to coffee, tea, juice and pastries in the library.
91 Hill Street
Southampton, NY‎ 11968
T: 631-283-1166
www.southamptoninn.com

T-BAR AT SAVANNA’S
o T-Bar at Savanna’s is well-known for its celeb scene, frequented by a long list of VIP patrons including Star Jones, Howard Stern, Beth Ostrosky Stern, FOX’s Rosanna Scotto, and Real Housewives of New York City’s Ramona and Mario Singer.
o The restaurant boasts an extensive wine list, wide selection of Cognac, Bourbon, and Single Malt Scotch. Signature dishes include the Yellowfin Tuna Tartar (Soy, Ginger and Sesame Seeds), Crispy Long Island Duck (with Sweet Potatoes and Apricot Glaze) and the Spaghetti “Chitarra” (Veal Meatballs, Marzano Sauce, and Basil).
o A favorite of the Hamptons’ society circuit, T-Bar at Savanna’s is led by famed restaurateur Tony Fortuna, of T-Bar NYC, and Arthur Backal. Offering guests innovative Contemporary American cuisine in a warm and inviting ambiance, the romantic outdoor terrace and rose garden make it the quintessential location for evening cocktails on those warm summer evenings.
268 Elm Street
Southampton, NY 11968
T: 631- 283-0202
www.savannassouthampton.com

WHAT TO WEAR…

BIBA – Open now through Labor Day
o This sexy boutique has been a favorite of celebrity shoppers including Christie Brinkley, Paris and Nicky Hilton, Felicity Huffman, Kim Porter and Beth Ostrosky Stern.
o Owner Barbara Blatt handpicks all of Biba’s hot lines. Biba has returned to its chic Southampton location this summer, showcasing the best of her exclusively-selected designs.
o Attention East End fashionistas! Barbara has designed and launched her own collection of chic summer-ready dresses, tops and tunics, featuring stylish designer-inspired prints and silhouettes. The Biba Collection will be sure to make a splash this season amongst the Hamptons’ stylistas. In addition to the its namesake collection, Biba’s pick for this summer’s must-have item is the dress, featuring collections from Unaluna, Gypsy 05, Minnie Rose Cashmeres, as well as this season’s hottest shoes, sandals and designer denim.
o This summer Biba promises to provide a one-stop shopping experience, with clothing and accessories from fashion’s ‘best kept secrets’ that will keep you looking summertime chic, from head-to-toe. In addition, Biba has also opened a second location in Palm Beach, which is open year round.
40 Hill Street
Southampton, NY 11968
T:631-259-2762

AMRITA SINGH JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES Since its launch in January 2003, Amrita Singh Jewelry & Accessories have garnered the admiration and devotion of fashion industry-insiders, Hollywood starlets – such as Anne Hathaway, Jessica Simpson and Jennifer Lopez – and the everyday woman.
o Amrita Singh’s Designer Jewelry fuses Old World aesthetics with New World fashion, resulting in exceptional and distinctive wearable works of art. The Contemporary Collection has recently added other accessories, such as Handbags, Sandals and Hair accessories, and is available online and at several top American retailers, such as Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Macy’s, Intermix, Holt Renfrew, as well as various other boutiques and stores throughout the country. The Fine Jewelry Collection is available exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City.
o This summer, Amrita Singh Jewelry & Accessories is set to take part in the hotly-anticipated charity shopping event, Super Saturday 13, benefiting the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, on Saturday, July 31, 2010 at Nova’s Ark Project.
www.amritasingh.com

WHO TO KNOW…

CELEBRITY EVENT PLANNER, RANEE BARTOLACCI-MEIR OF INSIGNIA PRODUCTIONS
o Spanning the Hamptons to New York City to Los Angeles, the go-to Celebrity Event Planner for the most exciting, exclusive fêtes is Owner of Insignia Productions, Ranee Bartolacci-Meir. From the theme, food, décor, music and venue, Ranee adds a personalized, distinctively stylish touch.
o With her Insignia Productions team, Ranee manages each event from beginning-to-end— attending each meeting, ensuring that the chosen theme is carried throughout all aspects of the event and each component is meticulously planned, absolute focus is placed on even the smallest of details. Ranee’s uniquely hands-on approach allows her insight into each client’s personality, resulting in events that are is carefully-crafted according to the client’s wishes, tastes and style.
o A luxury full-service event-planning firm, Insignia Productions specializes in intricate and inspired design, customized planning and the logistical production of all event types and sizes. Recently, Insignia Productions organized and produced a pre-Oscar’s lunch with legendary filmmaker Quentin Tarantino to celebrate his eight-time Academy Award-nominated film, Inglourious Basterds. Ranee’s past events have ranged from the traditional – a classic New York City wedding, held at the Plaza Hotel with entertainment by Kool & the Gang – to the trendsetting – including an Asian-fusion wedding at L.A.’s Walt Disney Concert Hall (featured in Bridal Guide Magazine), a fragrance launch-themed thirteen-year-old birthday, and chilly ice-themed soirée, complete with ice bar and décor.
www.insigniaproductions.com
T: 917-703-8829

2010 HAMPTONS EVENTS…

MERCEDES-BENZ POLO CHALLENGE 2010 AT BLUE STAR JETS FIELD – July 24, 2010 – August 28, 2010
o Once again, the Bridgehampton Polo Club (www.bhpolo.com) will host the coveted Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge at Blue Star Jets Field. This summer’s matches promise to be some of the most exciting in the sport of polo. The sport’s greatest athletes will compete for one of polo’s most treasured prizes. Returning as well will be some of the East End’s most high-profile and influential audience of VIPs, celebrities and media. This year’s sponsors include Swagg (Qualcomm), Ralph Lauren, Vita Coco, Crumbs Cupcakes and Bakery, Financial Times, Susan Foster Jewelry, Borghese Cosmetics, Hamptons Magazine and Pop Chips.
o Headed by event organizers, Strategic Group, the season commenced Saturday, July 24th and will continue for six consecutive Saturdays, ending August 28th. Matches will take place from 4PM to 6PM.
o The VIP tent will host an invitation-only cocktail reception for exclusive guests each Saturday afternoon during the tournament.
849 Hayground Road
Bridgehampton, NY 11976

A celebration of learning - New York City rallies behind the McCarton Foundation

2010-05-21T12:53:00.001-04:00

A celebration of learning - New York City rallies behind the McCarton Foundation
May 21, 2010

With Cipriani Wall Street as the dazzling backdrop, guests enjoyed an evening of bellinis and fine dining at the Ninth Annual Celebration of Learning, in support of Founder Cece McCarton and her namesake cause, The McCarton Foundation. The event, hosted by NBC Dateline’s Chris Hansen celebrated the Foundation’s progress in educating children with autism. The gala honored Shawn A. Rubin, Managing Director of Wealth Management at The Abacus Group of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, with the support of gala co-chairs Michelle Russell—who is also being honored at the Artrageous Gala Dinner and Art Auction on May 24th—and Neil Johnson, Sandra and Eric Ripert and Jill and David Robbins.

Cece McCarton made the exciting announcement that in September 2010, The McCarton School is opening an Upper School by educator Peter Gerhardt, for ages 13-18, keeping the promise that students will be taken care of throughout the continuation of their education. The entire room stood in an emotional standing ovation, showing a passionate appreciation for the teachers of The McCarton School on stage.

About The McCarton Foundation: The McCarton Foundation is dedicated to educating children with autism and development disabilities. Founded in 2002, The McCarton Foundation has actively supported the development of three key initiatives. The McCarton School, which provides a model program for educating children with autism and has more than doubled its enrollment since 2002; The McCarton Center for Research, creates, implements, and reports on applied research studies in autism and education; and The McCarton Training Institute, which is a training and consultation source for practitioners, caregivers and families. For more information, please visit www.mccartonfoundation.org.

Southampton Inn - Retreat to a Hamptons hideaway

2010-05-20T12:48:00.001-04:00

Southampton Inn - Retreat to a Hamptons hideaway
May 20, 2010

The Hamptons have long been known for star power, as the exclusive East End enclave is a playground for the rich and famous. Hot Hamptons hotel, Southampton Inn, has already begun to play host A-listers, as stars Kate Hudson, John Krasinski and Ginnifer Goodwin have been spotted there shooting scenes for the hotly-anticipated chick-flick Something Borrowed.

An idyllic escape for bustling city-dwellers, the Southampton Inn is nestled on more-than-five acres of lushly landscaped grounds. The perfect Hamptons home-away-from-home for any traveler, Southampton Inn is steps away from designer boutiques, quaint and fine dining, art galleries, parks and museums, and just over a mile from renowned Coopers Beach. A local landmark, the casual-chic, Tudor-style Inn is home to ninety recently-renovated guestrooms, each individually decorated to reflect the effortlessly stylish allure of the Hamptons. Summer pool membership is also available for non-guests.

In addition to its ninety guestrooms, the Southampton Inn’s 5.5-acre campus includes a conference center, OSO Restaurant and 71 Hill Street— the premier office complex in Southampton Village. Boasting 20,000-square-feet, the property houses a high-end construction company, financial services company, travel agency, spa and fine dining, as well as the area’s only local public radio station.

Hungry? Guests need not go far for a bite—classic Hamptons hospitality meets the modern palate at OSO At Southampton Inn. Start your morning with refreshing breakfast, featuring local farm fresh ingredients, freshly squeezed juices, and baked goods, prepared on-premise in the Inn’s new state-of-the-art kitchen. Throughout the Hamptons summer season, OSO delights foodies with a creative take on Modern American fare for lunch and dinner. Diners can indulge in such dishes as Local Clams (Crispy pork belly, Southampton Publick House Grand Cru broth), Lobster Tacos (Sriracha pepper, avocado, lime marinated lobster, roasted corn) and Chioga Beet Carpaccio (local arugula, Catapano Farms goat cheese, citrus mist, almond oil) poolside, al fresco in the courtyard and inside in the intimately-decorated dining room. During summer afternoons, guests can enjoy refreshing juices, iced tea or lemonade in the library; throughout the fall, winter and spring months, guests are treated to coffee, tea, juice and pastries in the library.

Also, Southampton Inn is perfect for any Hamptonite planning a special summer event. The ideal East End venue for a ‘Hamptons wedding,’ private social gathering or charity fête, as well as corporate meetings and conferences, Southampton Inn can play host to a number of events with a 6,000-square-feet of flexible indoor meeting space, 2,300-square-foot ballroom, seven meeting spaces of various sizes and dimensions, lushly landscaped outdoor courtyard, tented or open air events for up-to-500 people on the lawn, and private indoor and outdoor cocktail hours and receptions are all available to accommodate any type of event. OSO on-site catering is also available for all occasions; custom-crafted menus can be exclusively created by Chef Bryan Naylor, who prides himself on crafting menus with an elegant, refined palate infused with the casual allure of the Hamptons.

Southampton Inn
91 Hill Street
Southampton, NY 11968
www.southamptoninn.com

Blue Star Jets - Returning to the Silver Screen in Cannes

2010-05-20T12:44:00.000-04:00

Blue Star Jets - Returning to the Silver Screen in Cannes
May 20, 2010

Blue Star Jets—more than just a name in a film, but a real life private jet brokerage company. No coincidence, after all the company’s founders Todd Rome and Ricky Sitomer did title the company based on the business central to the cult classic movie, Wall Street. In the 1987 film, Michael Douglas stars as corporate raider Gordon Gekko who is seeking control of airline, Blue Star. Rome says the name Blue Star was chosen because, "In an era where private jet travel became accessible to the world's business and jetset elite, Blue Star Jets was the obvious name to choose in homage to Wall Street.

Now, twenty-three years later, Oliver Stone premiered the star-studded sequel Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps at the Cannes Film Festival, where Blue Star made its big screen comeback during a scene where Charlie Sheen’s character (Bud Fox), returns to tell Gekko (Douglas) that his private aircraft business is booming. The film’s other hefty cameos? Look out for big names 'The Sage of Omaha' Warren Buffett, Economist Nouriel Roubini and Vanity Fair's Graydon Carter. Widely anticipated to be a blockbuster the movie hits theatres September 24, 2010. (www.wallstreetmoneyneversleeps.com)

About Blue Star Jets: As one of the world’s largest private aircraft charter broker, Blue Star Jets offers an unparalleled level of personalized service. As their motto states, ANY JET, ANY TIME, ANY PLACE™, Blue Star Jets grants clients freedom from the financial constraints of fractional jet ownership; the savings of paying only for trips taken; and the flexibility to choose the best aircraft according to a trip’s specific budget requirement. Most recently, Blue Star Jets has introduced the world’s first online social networking site for travelers seeking to fly privately, while minimizing costs— the ShareAJet Exchange. As the first site of its kind, the ShareAJet Exchange introduces travelers to flying privately together, helping clients connect with other flyers planning trips to similar destinations and arrange to share flights aboard a specific private aircraft. As Blue Star Jets grants travelers unmatched access to the private aviation industry through its centralization of the charter business, eliminating the need for fractional jet ownership, the ShareAJet Exchange will once again lower the barrier of entry for travelers into the marketplace as it brings down the costs of private aviation for travelers by up-to-fifty percent.

As an idea which arose from business executives, Mr. Todd Rome and Mr. Ricky Sitomer, frustrated with the lack of service and high costs of flying privately, Blue Star Jets has revolutionized the private aviation charter business through centralization of a fractured marketplace. By creating a network of charter companies, Blue Star Jets has access to over 4,000 aircraft worldwide, ranging from helicopters to Boeing business jets. Its staff of aviation specialists solicits competitive bids on each flight request, passing the savings to their clients. Blue Star Jets’ aviation specialists are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Since 2005, the New York-based Luxury Institute has named Blue Star Jets the “Most Prestigious Private Jet Services Brands.” For more information, please visit www.bluestarjets.com.

The Stone Turtle Restaurant - A delicious detour on your way to the Hamptons

2010-05-18T11:11:00.001-04:00

The Stone Turtle Restaurant - A delicious detour on your way to the Hamptons

May 18 2010
The Stone Turtle Restaurant opened its doors with an official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, returning a playful sense of whimsy and fun to fine dining. The perfect halfway point from New York City to The Hamptons—The Stone Turtle is set to be the must-stop eatery for New Yorkers and Hamptonites during their weekend road trips.

As guests step inside, they are greeted by a brightly colored décor – brought to life with light and olive shades of green – met with exposed brick and wood embodies the casual elegance and charm of The Stone Turtle. Sunlight streams through the floor-to-ceiling windows that line an entire wall of the restaurant, shining light onto the one-of-kind graffiti mural that stands opposite, while classic rock, blended with Motown tunes and iconic Frank Sinatra sounds, bring together the lively atmosphere.

Offering guests an unparalleled culinary experience, Executive Chef Gregory Baumel shares his imaginative take on Eclectic cuisine – everyday food with a twist – crafted with the season’s freshest ingredients, many of which are organic and locally sourced. Signature favorites include Tatsoi, Shiitake and Duck Egg Salad (A Soft Poached Egg tops Baby Spinach-like Greens, Roasted Shiitake Mushrooms and Shaved Red Onion with a Warm Bacon Balsamic Vinaigrette), Green Tea Poached Wild Alaskan Salmon (Sesame Grilled Asparagus, Wasabi Cous Cous and Soy Mustard Glaze) and Four Cheese and Wild Boar Sausage Lasagna (Mozzarella, Ricotta, Parmesan & Romano Cheese baked with Lasagna Noodles, housemade Tomato Sauce and 100% Organic Free-Range Wild Board Sausage from Broken Arrow Ranch, Texas).
Stone Turtle’s Small Plates are ideal for those seeking lighter fare and include Screaming Oysters (Freshly Shucked East Coast Oysters lightly poached in a sauce of Sake, Oyster Sauce, Chilis and Cilantro served with Crostini) and Tuna Tartini (Sashimi quality Tuna tossed with Ponzu and Chili Peppers served with Avocado and Homemade Waffle Chips).

Thirsty? Try the Hare of the Turtle (Bacardi® Superior Rum, club soda, mint leaves, jalapeno, lime, sugar, topped with Cotton Candy garnish), one of Stone Turtle’s tempting original cocktails, or the Stone Turtle Beer Sampler, which includes four 5oz. draft beers from the eatery’s twelve-beer selection that includes Dogfish Head IPA 60 min, Monty Python Holy Grail Ale, BluePoint Blueberry, and Six Points Sweet Action. With an array of imaginative menu items, the Grand Tasting Menu offers undecided diners seven delectable courses of the Chef’s careful choosing— twenty-four hours notice and a six-person-minimum result in an unforgettable culinary event. No time to stop? Executive Chef Gregory Baumel also makes “House Calls” upon request, personally crafting and creating a special menu based upon his client’s tastes and wishes.

Getting a late start on the weekend? Weekend Brunch at Stone Turtle evokes the restaurant’s original culinary interpretation and light-hearted sense of humor with such tongue-in-cheek dishes as The Amsterdam (Hash Sampler of Corned Beef Hash, House Smoked Salmon and Caper Hash and Confit of Duck with Sweet Potato Hash with two Poached Eggs and Sauce Bernaise) and Green Eggs-N-Ham (Poached Eggs with Roast Serrano Ham, Tomatilla Avocado Salsa & Blue Corn Tortillas). For those with a sweet tooth be sure to indulge with a selection or two from the Chocolate and Nothing But Chocolate Dessert Menu— the decadent, all-chocolate menu offers playful signature sweet treats such as The Dirty Ashtray and Chocolate Jalapeno “Chipwich Sandwich.”

At once festive and casual, an original culinary take on Eclectic cuisine is served under the backdrop of the colorfully chic interior, as The Stone Turtle boasts a truly unparalleled fine dining experience.

The Stone Turtle Restaurant
4160 Austin Boulevard
Island Park, NY 11558
www.thestoneturtlerestaurant.com

Discover Oriel - A new kind of wine company

2010-05-12T11:38:00.001-04:00

Discover Oriel - A new kind of wine company
May 12, 2010

Oriel wines have made a lasting impression in the wine industry. Big names from singer Usher to actress Teri Hatcher are among the who’s-who following of these handmade wines from around the globe.

Oriel sets themselves apart with highly-rated wines—receiving praise from Food & Wine Magazine, Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator and Gourmet Magazine—at affordable prices. While wine prices are normally driven by overheads and marketing fees rather than the cost of grapes and production, Oriel can offer a $25 bottle of wine for $15, or a $45 bottle of wine for $25. Don’t be fooled by the reasonable prices—from Petrus to Penfold’s Grange, Oriel wines are made by some of the world’s most celebrated winemakers.

Oriel wines are handmade in miniscule quantities, following the theory that making a great wine is like making great food—to make a little with the very best ingredients is possible, to make a lot is not. Perfecting the wines a few barrels at a time, Oriel wines express the distinct characters of the unique vineyards they come from—including vineyards of Germany, France, New Zealand, Italy and Spain. Indulge in a bottle and transport yourself to the other side of the globe.

Oriel Wines
www.orielwines.com
1-877-77-ORIEL

April Showers bring May flowers... and the return of MODA Outdoors

2010-05-06T07:39:00.003-04:00

April Showers bring May flowers... and the return of MODA Outdoors
May 1, 2010

New York City’s iconic Flatotel is home to the sophisticated, Italian and Mediterranean inspired restaurant, MODA. Sophisticated design meets modern Italian cuisine in a warmly lit space, accented with flickering candles and gorgeous floral creations. Open year-round, MODA, Italian for style, offers a sophisticated and refined, yet warm and welcoming dining experience.

The perfect eatery for the quintessential New York City dining experience, MODA is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; MODA is also the ideal place for a pre-or-post-theatre bite, featuring prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus. Offering an inventive twist on classic Italian and Mediterranean fare, each of MODA’s dishes is crafted with only the season’s finest ingredients.

This month, Flatotel is opening the doors and welcoming the return of MODA Outdoors. A true urban escape, MODA Outdoors is perfect for sipping cocktails and alfresco dining, as well as special events up-to-500 people. Seasonal outdoor dining is offered May through October at MODA Outdoors, complete with a stunning 30-foot-glass-ceiling that crafts a one-of-kind ambiance. Dine while overlooking the heart of New York City—try specialty dishes such as the Fra Diavolo, Angel hair Pasta with Shrimp and Spicy Marinara, the Pumpkin Seed Crusted Salmon, Grilled Salmon, Butternut Squash and Orange Fennel, or indulge in specialty drinks such as the MODA Wave, Beefeater Gin, Island Blue Pucker and Orange Juice and the Coconut Mojito, Coconut Rum, Lime and Mint leaves.

ABOUT FLATOTEL: Located in the heart of New York City, Flatotel fuses modern style with luxurious comfort. Boasting some of the largest guestrooms and suites in Manhattan, this four-star-hotel offers an intimate feel with apartment size accommodations. Designed based on concepts by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright – the hearth as the heart and soul of a house – a guestroom at Flatotel draws its spirit from the bed, a custom-designed piece that becomes the central element of the room. The 272 guestrooms and suites include deluxe guestrooms, junior suites, one, two and three-bedroom suites, as well as penthouse tower suites that are up to 2,400-square-feet complete with balconies. For more information on MODA and Flatotel, please visit www.FLATOTEL.com.

Sea Crest on the Ocean Resort & Residences - Sunny Hamptons Weekends by the Beach await you

2010-05-06T07:37:00.002-04:00

Sea Crest on the Ocean Resort & Residences - Sunny Hamptons Weekends by the Beach await you
May 6, 2010

Wiggle your toes into the beautiful white sandy beach of Sea Crest on the Ocean Resort. Shouldn’t the search for your Hamptons destination be as stress-free as your vacation there? A sister property of Distinctive Management Company’s flagship luxury development, the Panoramic View Resort & Residences, Sea Crest on the Ocean offers exclusive seaside units, spanning 8.3 acres, nestled between Montauk and Amagansett. With 74 units – comprised of studios, one, two and three-bedroom fully equipped units – Sea Crest on the Ocean is the perfect site for a luxurious resort escape.

Indulge yourself in the Sea Crest Amenities—an outdoor heated swimming pool, private tennis courts, children’s play area, daily housekeeping service, picnic and barbecue areas. Enjoy the private beach with chair, umbrella and towel services. Having recently completed an extensive renovation, the stunning Sea Crest Resort has made it just that much sweeter to wake up by the sea.

For those who want to call Sea Crest home, units are also available for ownership—ideal for all ages, from young families who are looking to spend affordable yet memorable summers with their kids to retired couples looking to enjoy quiet time on the ocean. Distinctive Management eliminates the worries and stress of owning a second home. As a complete property management company, all home maintenance is taken care of. Monthly billing and expenses are a snap with the One Bill System. A residence at Sea Crest on the Ocean can even be acquired fully decorated and furnished—perfect for those busy buyers who aren’t looking commit to a big home decorating project.

Sea Crest on the Ocean
2166 Montauk Highway
Amagansett, NY
T: (631) 267-3159
www.seacrestontheocean.com

About Distinctive Management LLC: As the preeminent management company for exclusive, luxury properties in the Hamptons, Distinctive Management, LLC boasts an unparalleled expertise in the high-end real estate development and management market, which includes hotels, resorts, cooperatives, condominiums, private estates and commercial properties. For more information, please visit www.distinctiveventures.com.

Amiya Prasad, M.D., Cosmetic Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon offers Artistic insights for your unique beauty

2010-04-30T21:22:00.002-04:00

Amiya Prasad, M.D., Cosmetic Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon offers Artistic insights for your unique beauty
April 30, 2010

For over fifteen years, Amiya Prasad, M.D. has been a pioneer the field of Cosmetic Surgery in New York City. Dr. Amiya Prasad has performed countless facial cosmetic procedures— widely known for his innovative approach to eyelid rejuvenation and facelifting surgery, Dr. Prasad’s work is highly regarded for its natural results. In addition, Dr. Prasad has developed techniques that are well-suited to modern lifestyles, balancing artistry and individualized design with minimal risk, maximum gain and quick recovery.

Dr. Prasad leads his practice with a personal philosophy: Every face has a character, which changes with age, creating the appearance of looking tired or lacking energy. “I believe in restoring the key youthful elements of the face while maintaining the person’s character. To match how they look on the outside with how they feel on the inside.”

With offices in New York City’s Upper East Side and Garden City, Long Island, NY, Dr. Prasad performs natural, Quick Recovery procedures in his state-of-the-art Joint Commission-approved operating facilities. A graduate of The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, Dr. Prasad received his specialty training by top Cosmetic Surgeons associated with The University of Texas in Houston and Galveston, as well as The Baylor College of Medicine. As a fellow of the prestigious American Society of Oculofacial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Prasad holds board certification in Ocular Surgery as well as Fellowship Certification in Oculofacial Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Dr. Prasad's work has been featured on network television and cable news programs as well as several leading magazines and websites. An advocate for his field in Cosmetic Surgery, he has additionally published a number of well-received articles in peer-reviewed journals. In addition, Dr. Prasad instructs future surgeons at several institutions including State University of New York, Downstate Medical School where he is an Assistant Professor, as well as Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, Winthrop University Hospital and Nassau University Medical Center. This year, Dr. Prasad will make his debut as an author with his upcoming book, “The Fine Art of Looking Younger.” For further details, please visit.

Office Locations: New York City Garden City
61 East 66th Street 901 Stewart Avenue, Suite 206
New York City Garden City, NY
Tel: (212) 265-8877 Tel: (516) 742-5636

N.C. Heikin's Kimjongilia builds on acclaim from Sundance & New York, winning One World Best Human Rights Documentary Film Award

2010-04-29T20:07:00.002-04:00

N.C. Heikin's Kimjongilia builds on acclaim from Sundance & New York, winning One World Best Human Rights Documentary Film Award

April 29, 2010
Recently, the 2010 One World Festival Brussels, in partnership with The Human Rights and Democracy Network (HRDN) , unanimously awarded Best Film of 2010 to Kimjongilia by filmmaker N.C. Heikin. Following its screening at the European Parliament, Kimjongilia was awarded the prestigious honor, crediting its artistic quality and compelling, powerful message about the human rights abuses in North Korea. The prize was presented by HRDN jurors during the closing ceremony of the festival at the Czech Permanent Representation.

Juror Catherine Absalom, of The International Federation of Human Rights said, “This elegantly beautiful film is an anguished cry for help which cannot be ignored. Emotion overwhelms the viewer in the face of trying testimonies from the rare exiles of the world's most isolated and hermetic state, and the most devoid of human rights. ‘Listen to us’, demands a survivor of these terrible, secretive camps. I have only one response ‘YES’.”

HRDN brought together a jury of specialists to choose the prize winner among this year’s entries in Brussels. HRDN since 2009, has been involved in the Brussels film screenings and ensuing debates of the One World Festival. Founded by former Czech president Václav Havel, The One World Festival in Prague, is where Kimjongilia was screened to packed houses. This fourth Belgian festival, under the prestigious patronage of European Parliament President Jerzy Buzek, has given the public an opportunity to discover a selection of eighteen documentaries from the Prague festival treating the subjects of human rights violations, denial of political rights and impunity that prevail in different parts of the world.

ABOUT KIMJONGILIA: Kimjongilia The Flower of Kim Jong Il (Lorber Films) is the first film to fully expose the humanitarian crisis of North Korea. The film reveals the extraordinary stories told by survivors of North Korea’s vast prison camps, devastating famine, and every kind of oppression. Filmmaker N.C. Heikin provides a historical backdrop to North Korea’s situation and examines why defectors fled, gives accounts of their harrowing escapes, and reveals the dangers they face in China, hunted by both Chinese and North Korean police. The refugees come from every walk of life, from child concentration camp inmates to an elite concert pianist. Their stories, however, all speak to repression and the breaking of body-and-soul. These humble heroes are inspiring, for despite their unimaginable suffering, they continue to hold out hope for a better future. For further information, please visit www.kimjongiliathemovie.com, or the Facebook fan page.

ABOUT N.C. HEIKIN: A student of dance and theatre at Sarah Lawrence College, N.C. Heikin began working at La Mama Experimental Theatre Club upon graduation. There, Heikin created the title role in La Mama’s renowned production, Carmilla as well as a series of interdisciplinary performance pieces, shown in New York City and at theatre festivals around the world. Her performance background is exhibited in the manner in which she has crafted this innovative documentary. Heikin made her film directing debut in 2004 with her prizewinning narrative short, mañana, which debuted on Indiepix in May 2008. Kimjongilia, her first documentary, received a grant from the Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program and was invited to the Sundance Story & Edit Lab in June 2008. It premiered at Sundance 2009 and has since played in festivals around the world, including the Sarasota Film Festival, San Francisco International Film Festival, Seattle International Film Festival, Docuwest, Hamburg Film Festival, Vancouver International Film Festival, and South Korea’s Pusan International Film Festival.

Taking the lead in shaping the Industry's next decade: Serenity Zen Beverage™ Revolutionizes the consumer beverage market

2010-04-28T20:06:00.001-04:00

Taking the lead in shaping the Industry's next decade: Serenity Zen Beverage™ Revolutionizes the consumer beverage market
April 28, 2010

Over the past decade we’ve all been inundated with high-calorie soft drinks, brash, over-the-top cans of energy drinks and promises of power boosts only to be followed with sugar crashes. This next decade welcomes a new revolution on the other end of the spectrum: relaxation beverages.

Relaxation drinks are the latest craze to grab the nation’s attention. Cheaper than a day at the spa, but just as soothing, Serenity Zen Beverage™ is your relaxation must-have— a product of Next Generation Beverage, LLC, Serenity™ is one of the industry’s first-ever relaxation beverages. Serenity Zen Beverage™ promises to quash feelings of tension and stress and transport you to that relaxing getaway you’ve been dreaming about…

So, attention bustling soccer moms, stressed-out college kids, and overworked 9-to-5ers! Sip your way to tranquility—an innovative blend of vitamins, natural flavors and extracts and a relaxing and tranquil formula, Serenity™ grants your wish to relax and unwind with a sweet vanilla taste and zero calories, sugar and carbohydrates.

Whether you are in need of a comforting cap to a long day’s work, calmed nerves before a flight or just a sweet start to that long-awaited vacation, Serenity™ is your sweet taste of calm. You may still have that 8:00AM meeting tomorrow, but for now, you have 8.4fl.oz. of Zen.

ABOUT NEXT GENERATION BEVERAGE, LLC: Stirring up the beverage industry with groundbreaking products and innovative marketing, Next Generation Beverage, LLC is the brainchild of a team who are eager to revolutionize the soft drink industry with products including Sin Vitality Drink™, Sin-Free Vitality Drink™ and one of the first of its kind, Serenity Zen Beverage™. Next Generation Beverage, LLC concocts and packages beverages that are original, unique blends of energy and relaxing drinks, setting itself apart from others in the marketplace. Unlike a number of its competitors within the beverage industry that originate overseas, Next Generation Beverage, LLC products are all domestically-produced in the U.S.A. Recently, teaming up with Canada Dry Bottling Co. of NY, Next Generation Beverage LLC is now introducing top-selling relaxation beverage Serenity in the New York City and Long Island markets. For store locations and further details, please visit www.drinkserenity.com, www.drinkinsin.com and www.nextgenerationbeverage.com.

Welcome to New York City's Flatotel - Redefining Luxury and Embracing Intimacy

2010-04-26T18:43:00.001-04:00

Welcome to New York City's Flatotel - Redefining Luxury and Embracing Intimacy
April 26, 2010

Indulge in your new home-away-from-home—located in the heart of New York City, the inviting Flatotel blends chic, modern style with luxurious comfort for a traveler’s dream hotel experience. Boasting some of the largest guestrooms and suites in Manhattan, this four-star-hotel offers a cozy, intimate feel with apartment size accommodations. The design of the hotel, inspired by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s concepts – the hearth as the heart and soul of a house – a guestroom at Flatotel draws its spirit from the bed, a custom-designed piece that becomes the central element of the room.

Flatotel’s matchless New York location and stunning interior has made it a household name in the entertainment industry. The hotel has played host and been the backdrop to a long list of TV’s hottest shows—including America’s Next Top Model, Project Runway, Models of the Runway, Top Chef, and Making the Band.

Flatotel boasts 272 guestrooms and suites, which include deluxe guestrooms, junior suites, one, two and three-bedroom suites, as well as penthouse tower suites that are up to 2,400-square-feet complete with balconies. All rooms and suites have luxuriously spacious bathrooms, some featuring oversized bathrooms and soaking tubs.

Guests need not look far for a delectable dining experience. At Flatotel’s Moda Restaurant, food is to wine what fashion is to style— sophisticated design meets modern Italian cuisine in a warmly lit space, accented with flickering candles and gorgeous floral creations. Moda is open year round and serves breakfast lunch and dinner. Seasonal outdoor dining is offered May through October at Moda Outdoors, complete with a stunning 30-foot-glass-ceiling that crafts a one-of-kind ambiance, day or night. A true urban escape, Moda Outdoors is perfect for sipping cocktails and alfresco dining, as well as special events up-to-400 people.

For meetings and events, Flatotel offers a state-of-the-art conference center for meetings, conferences and special events for up-to-200 visitors. A calming interior design, coupled with features such as video teleconferencing, surround sound audio, high-speed internet connection and custom lighting to make every event a success. An outdoor function space covered with a dramatic 30 ft. glass ceiling is also available for groups as large as 400, a truly distinctive difference among the ordinary spaces available in New York City—perfect for red carpet events, fashion shows, and product launches.

Flatotel offers a number of distinctive on-site services including concierge, one-day laundry and dry cleaning service, currency exchange, and in-suite spa services. On-site valet parking is available for overnight guests. In addition, numerous public transportation options are available for Flatotel guests; car rentals, taxis and airport shuttle services can also be arranged with the concierge.

FLATOTEL
132 West 52nd Street
New York, New York 10019
T: 212-887-9400
F: 212-887-9775
www.FLATOTEL.com
reservations@flatotel.com

Made in New York - The JBFCS Honors Russell Simmons, John A Herrmann and David F. Everett

2010-04-22T18:42:00.000-04:00

Made in New York - The JBFCS Honors Russell Simmons, John A Herrmann and David F. Everett

April 22, 2010

The Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services honored Russell Simmons, David F. Everett and John A Herrmann at the Annual Spring Benefit, Made in New York—A-listers seen showing their support throughout the evening included, model Katie Rost (arriving with honoree date, Simmons), Ralph Lauren model Chris Collins, Rabbi Marc Schneier, and socialites Jean Shafiroff, Ann Rapp and Sharon Bush. Emceed by WNBC Anchor DeMarco Morgan, the special event was held at New York City’s Guastavino’s and featured a cocktail reception and seated dinner with proceeds benefitting JBFCS’ 175 community-based programs, residential facilities, and day-treatment centers that annually serve over 65,000 New Yorkers-in-need of all faiths, races and cultures.

Addressing the evening’s guests, Executive Vice President & CEO, Paul Levine expressed,
“Tonight’s event was a success on so many levels. We raised over $800,000 to support our work, we introduced the agency to a whole new audience of supporters— and we celebrated the outcomes of our work by featuring a number of former and current clients who have overcome their not-insignificant struggles with our help. Many of them have gone on to great things. That is what this agency is all about: helping people put their lives back together and succeeding despite the odds. I am extremely proud of what we do.”

Guests ended the evening with exclusive goody bags, featuring must-haves from Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc., Aestelance, Alcone, Alley O’ Designer Gourmet, Amoy Couture Hair, Amrita Singh Jewelry & Accessories, BookSwim, CAPE COD Potato Chips, CBS, Clarins, Dashing Diva, Amiya Prasad, M.D., e.l.f., Essie, Equinox, Hillside Organic Candy, KISS, Madame Paulette, Panoramic View Resort & Residences, Popchips, Pure Yoga, Rene Furterer, Serenity Zen Beverage™, Solstice Sunglass Boutique, Soul Cycle, Tate’s Bake Shop, Tela, The Sports Club/LA, Time Out New York, Vitafusion, and Vita Coco.

ABOUT JBFCS: JBFCS has been a trailblazer in treating social problems for more than a century. Today, JBFCS is one of the nation’s largest and most respected nonprofit mental health and social service agencies— every night, over 1,000 individuals call a JBFCS residence home. The work of JBFCS is built upon a network of over 2,200 professionals, including social workers, licensed psychologists, and psychiatrists, as well as a cadre of clinical support personnel in continuing day treatment and residential treatment centers, and a corps of over 2,200 dedicated volunteers. JBFCS provides a comprehensive network of mental health and social services to promote well-being, resilience and self-sufficiency for individuals and families in need in the New York metropolitan area. As leaders in the field of human services, JBFCS mission is clear— 175 social service programs. 1 mission. To get help to those who need it. For further information, please visit.

Beauty bash unleashes the secret! Advanced Derma Laser Tech inc. celebrates 10 years and the Celebrity world's secret weapon

2010-04-13T09:04:00.000-04:00

Beauty bash unleashes the secret! Advanced Derma Laser Tech inc. celebrates 10 years and the Celebrity world's secret weapon
April 13, 2010

Celebrity Hair Removal Expert Jennifer Kandemir for Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc. is celebrating ten years of providing the most professional and confidential, groundbreaking treatments to some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Her undisclosed list of clientele ranges from A-list actors and Broadway performers to swimsuit models and professional swimmers—all of whom are looking for the leading treatments in laser hair removal with the highest regard for their privacy. Jennifer takes confidentiality seriously and treats all clients with the same personalized attention and discretion—which is why she is a prominent name in the discrete world of celebrity laser hair removal.

In celebration of the premier hair removal center’s 10th Anniversary, Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc. partnered with Latisse®, the revolutionary beauty treatment used to grow eyelashes, held a Beauty Bash. Guests mingled amongst bellinis and chocolate-covered strawberries, while experiencing the latest techniques in facial and body hair removal.

Individualized attention and service sets Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc. apart from the competition — upon a client’s first visit, he/she is greeted with a one-on-one consultation. The chicly-decorated space boasts an elegantly clean aesthetic, providing a tranquil atmosphere that sets clients at ease from the moment they step inside. Advanced Derma Laser Tech. Inc. employs two state-of-the-art types of laser hair removal technology – the Cutera Nd: YAG and the Alexandrite by Candela Gentle Laser – according to skin color/type. For further information, please visit.

ABOUT JENNIFER KANDEMIR: Inspired by a personal mission to rid the negative self-images of unwanted body hair from others, Jennifer transforms the lives of her clients through her work. A New York beauty industry veteran, she had long felt victim to the issue of unwanted body hair, negatively impacting her self-image and causing her to feel uncomfortable in her own skin. After undergoing laser hair removal treatment, Jennifer decided that she would learn to complete the laser hair removal procedure herself and began to take classes. At her three-month mark, Jennifer was gifted with a laser hair removal machine and she has never looked back since!

Panoramic View Resort and Residences - Montauk's exclusive new enclave

2010-04-12T14:18:00.000-04:00

Panoramic View Resort and Residences - Montauk's exclusive new enclave

April 12, 2010
Welcome home to your doorman/concierge building on the ocean—the weather is warming up, which means the Hamptons season is just around the corner!

Distinctive Management, LLC presents a true East End getaway for bustling New Yorkers, the Panoramic View Residences—presenting the most exclusive, exceptionally-priced homes directly on the beach in the town of East Hampton. A renowned destination for over fifty years, the new luxury oceanfront villas are available for purchase at the Panoramic View. The perfect second home and seaside escape, this magnificent property encompasses over ten oceanfront acres across 1,000 feet of sandy white beach. Waking up to a breathtaking seaside view in the mornings, residents may have to remind themselves that they are in New York’s Montauk, not a Caribbean isle. Absolute attention to detail and luxury styling are incorporated into each and every aspect of construction. The Panoramic View Residences range in size and price to suit your needs; featured are one through five bedroom units, from 1,200-square-feet to 6,500-square-feet, available from under $2 million to $10 million.

Redefining luxury, the property’s year-round staff ensures that every need is met, from a fully-stocked refrigerator to the delivery of mail or dry cleaning. The Panoramic View promises residents the ultimate rest and relaxation experience. Amenities include poolside cabanas, fitness center, concierge service, porters, beach and pool attendants, on-site housekeeping, on-call massage therapists and fitness trainers. The Panoramic View Residences offer heavenly oceanfront living with none of the hassles associated with oceanfront home ownership. For more information, please visit.

About Distinctive Management LLC: The preeminent management company for exclusive, luxury properties in the Hamptons, Distinctive Management, LLC boasts an unparalleled expertise in high-end real estate management, including hotel resorts, cooperatives, condominiums, private estates and commercial properties. For more information, please visit.

BANGLE BANGLE! - Jewelry designer Amrita Singh brings the Glitz to Tinseltown

2010-04-08T14:23:00.000-04:00

BANGLE BANGLE! - Jewelry designer Amrita Singh brings the Glitz to Tinseltown
April 8, 2010

Jewelry designer Amrita Singh won the hearts of the fashion and celebrity worlds in 2003 with the launch of Amrita Singh Jewelry. Her unique blend of Old and New worlds into exuberant, artistic pieces of fashion jewelry and accessories have earned her a huge A-list following—the likes of Anne Hathaway, Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Lopez, Faith Hill and Jessica Lange have donned her designs.

A connoisseur of art, Amrita believes in creating jewelry that incorporates the best elements of modern and classic designs. Studying the intricacies of Indian art through travel and extensive independent work, Amrita draws upon the designs of India and the Mughal dynasty to create artisanal Indian Jewelry and accessories. Her passion is evident in the development of both her lines—contemporary jewelry and fine jewelry collections.
One of Amrita’s contemporary jewelry collections, Bangle Bangle is the collection that made Amrita Singh Jewelry a buzzword in the fashion and design circles. The Bangle Bangle Collection combines art and fashion to create a dynamic look for any woman. Featuring an array of materials, styles and sizes, the collection ranges from sterling silver and designer costume jewelry pieces to intricate silk designs and fine enamel work. Featured in top magazines such as Women’s Wear Daily, InStyle, Glamour, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue—Amrita Singh’s Bangle Bangle line has drawn the attention of women, celebrities and the fashion world alike.

Amrita Singh designs are available online and at top U.S. stores including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Intermix, Macy’s and Holt Renfrew—the Fine Jewelry Collection is available exclusively at Bergdorf Goodman.

ABOUT AMRITA SINGH: Trained by the best in the field, Amrita Singh graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology and also completed the prestigious two year executive training program at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City. Though jewelry-making began as an “accidental love,” it grew into a unique and compelling “passion,” according to Amrita. Her design interests are global, reflecting the city that she inhabits and works in: urban, culturally diverse, and infused with artistic inspiration.

Amrita Singh Jewelry and Accessories
580 Broadway, Suite 1109
New York, NY 10012
T: 212-869-3434
F: 212-840-6135

With the opening of Bhojan vegetarian restaurant Shiva K. Natarajan, Owner & Executive Chef, changes the face of New York's little India

2010-04-07T07:50:00.000-04:00

With the opening of Bhojan vegetarian restaurant Shiva K. Natarajan, Owner & Executive Chef, changes the face of New York's little India

April 7, 2010
Now with the recently-opened Bhojan Vegetarian Restaurant, restaurateur Shiva K. Natarajan has done it again. Having opened a number of the most innovative and highly-reviewed Indian restaurants along the East Coast—including Dhaba, Chola and Tadka in New York City—he is now offering diners a refreshing take on Indian dining with the new vegetarian eatery.

The farthest thing from your average curry house, Shiva’s restaurants offer imaginative yet authentic menus. His restaurants stand out from Little India’s restaurant row neighbors because of a clear insight and vision behind his restaurant concepts. For instance, Dhaba offers a unique list of British-influenced curries, rarely offered at New York City Indian restaurants, while Bhojan boasts an all vegetarian and kosher menu featuring cuisine from Northern and Western India. Dishes such as the Thalis on Bhojan’s menu and the homemade Makkai ki Rotti on the Dhaba menu are the reasons behind Shiva’s success—he has the ability to offer new guests an authentic Indian dining experience while transporting Indian guests back to fond childhood memories.

The restaurant’s inspired interior design and walk-in friendly concepts such as Bhojan’s Sweet Shop have transformed Little India. Shiva’s restaurants attract both hip, young diners walking by on a Friday night as well as Indian guests who look forward to a homecooked meal, forever changing the face of Restaurant Row—a neighborhood known for its on-the-go dining options that is now, due largely in part to Shiva’s vision, a must-try NYC culinary hotspot.

BHOJAN
102 Lexington Avenue (between 27th & 28th Streets), New York City

ABOUT SHIVA K. NATARAJAN: Restaurateur and Executive Chef, Shiva Natarajan, is a veteran to the East Coast gourmet industry having opened eight highly-regarded restaurants; Dhaba, Chola and Tadka in New York City, Chola, Malabar Hill and Bombay Bar & Grill in Connecticut, Jaipore Royal Indian Cuisine in Brewster New York and Bombay at the Black Swan Inn in Lee, Massachusetts. Born and raised in Calcutta, Shiva fell in love with the art of cuisine by spending countless hours in the kitchen with his family, developing what would become his life-long passion for food. After completing his high school education in Bombay, he left India to pursue his MBA at Pace University in New York City. After traveling throughout India, experiencing many different cuisine styles of his native country, Shiva transported his expertise of Indian cuisine to the restaurant industry of New York City.

Dynamic Philanthropist takes the helm: JBFCS welcomes Tony Mann as new Board President

2010-04-05T20:19:00.001-04:00

Dynamic Philanthropist takes the helm: JBFCS welcomes Tony Mann as new Board President

Tony Mann has taken office as Board President at the Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services (JBFCS)— an honor that recognizes Mann’s twenty years of exceptional service to the agency. “Giving of oneself is more than a responsibility; it is a privilege,” says Mann. “Getting involved in something larger than myself, such as JBFCS, has taught me the importance of our accomplishments—both big and small. It is our collective impact in the city that counts and we do this by taking small steps. This has inspired me to work even harder.”

JBFCS provides a comprehensive network of mental health and social services to promote well-being, resilience and self-sufficiency for individuals and families in need in the New York metropolitan area. As leaders in the field of human services, the organization proudly serves people of all faiths, races and cultures. Today, JBFCS serves over 65,000 New Yorkers annually through a comprehensive range of 175 community-based programs, residential facilities, and day-treatment centers. With the single largest number of clinic licenses held by one agency, at any given moment, 6,200 New Yorkers are receiving treatment through the JBFCS network of clinics. For further details, please visit www.jbfcs.org.

In addition to his many years of service on the JBFCS Board of Trustees, Mann also served as chairman of Kaplan House, an urban residential facility for twenty-five adolescent males that provides an extensive independent-living skills program and therapeutic and support services. Last year, he launched the JBFCS Hudson Valley Ride, an annual bike ride fundraiser for JBFCS programs and services. The 2009 ride exceeded its first year goal of $250,000 to attain over $425,000. This year’s ride is July 18th with a $500,000 goal. (For more information).

“My vision for the future of JBFCS hinges on our practicing the highest levels of integrity and professionalism in serving families and communities,” said Tony Mann. “As we adapt to these uncertain times, we must remain optimistic as well as vigilant in serving the needs of a diverse population…and having a Board that reflects that diversity.”

A resident of Greenwich, CT, Mann is President of E-J Electric Installation Co., a 110-year-old electrical contracting firm in Long Island City, NY. E-J’s projects range from stadiums, water treatment and power plants to office buildings, transit facilities, schools and theatres. Notable projects under Tony Mann’s leadership include: Yankee Stadium, New York Times Headquarters, Bank of America – Mission Critical, 11 Times Square, Astoria Power & Poletti 500 MW Power Plants, WTC Path Station, Planetarium at the Museum of Natural History, JetBlue JFK Terminal, USTA National Tennis Center, Madame Tussaud’s, Jazz @ Lincoln Center, United Nations, and the Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Research Center.

The Launch of Fund Art Now - Bringing Together the Global Art Community

2010-04-05T20:15:00.001-04:00

The Launch of Fund Art Now - Bringing Together the Global Art Community
April 3, 2010

Fêting the launch of the newly-formed not-for-profit, Fund Art Now (F.A.N.), a who’s-who of New York City’s art community came together for an evening of art and music at the chic art space, Collective Hardware. Founder of F.A.N. David Zelikovsky kicked off the ten-day celebration of art, with a mission to instill a new Renaissance within the global Arts community and change worldwide consciousness. The night highlighted provocative works by several artists, including Zach Hyman – rumored to be the latest love interest on the MTV Show, The City for star Roxy Olin – as well as Anton S. Kandinsky and Brian Reed, and showcased Ulysses’ latest “animated art” endeavor, along with musical performances. Also in attendance was owner of the Chair and the Maiden Gallery, John Dabu. The F.A.N. launch event began its fundraising efforts for future projects.

Other events during the celebration include, the Nouveau Haiti Night, benefitting the New York City Haiti Relief Fund, the debut of Soul Mafia’s newest album and a performance by Ms. Annie Brazil. The evening’s sponsors include: Ace of Spades, Armand de Brignac Champagne, Steinway & Sons, The Global Syndicate, Diamond Club International, TR Luxury, Next Generation Beverage LLC, Barbados Tourist Authority, The Crane Resort, New York Historical Society, Heart-4-Haiti, One Heart For Haiti and Luxe Event.

ABOUT F.A.N.: With a mission to instill a Renaissance within the Arts community and change global consciousness, F.A.N. draws upon all types of Artists and Artisans across the globe and will create projects – such as the building of its foundation, brick-by-brick, through a joint effort – drawing international interest toward a focused goal. F.A.N.’s purpose is to create a public congregation in which common goals and interests can be developed in a performance and gallery space where improvisation and collaboration are encouraged— a space where All are welcome; the ultimate goal will be to fulfill Van Gogh's elusive lifelong desire for community among artists, a collaboration of dreams.

Art projects selected for sponsorship will be chosen based upon their appeal to the base of human nature, where religion and politics are given secondary status, and their perceived effective nature on a global stage with accessibility to the international public— making a simple statement simply. Breaking down barriers that education and socio-economic factors have established over the centuries, accessibility to the masses is of utmost importance to F.A.N.'s mission.

Through such globally-accessible artwork, F.A.N. hopes to instill a global dialogue that will ultimately alter the manner in which humanity thinks and expresses themselves, changing the basic ideas of value and so forth. As important as the air we breathe, and the water we drink, art, in all of its various incarnations, needs to be embodied by All.
For additional information, please visit www.fundartnow.org. To become a F.A.N. volunteer or donate.

Meet Thelonious "T.J" Johnson - Actor, Model, and Trainer to the Stars

2010-04-05T20:11:00.001-04:00

Meet Thelonious "T.J" Johnson - Actor, Model, and Trainer to the Stars

April 2nd, 2010

Thelonious Johnson, better known as T.J., embodies a matchless triple threat, as an actor, model and fitness expert with such elite clients as CNN’s Anderson Cooper. Named one of 2008’s Most Eligible Bachelors by Extra, T.J. has established himself in many arenas, proving to be a sought-after actor while helping individuals reach peak levels of fitness.

T.J.’s career boasts a wide range of highlights. As a model, he has been featured in leading publications such as Vogue Italia, Details, and scored the cover of Maximum Fitness. He was also featured in a nationally syndicated commercial for Old Spice Hair & Body Wash. His acting highlights include roles on Law & Order: Criminal Intent, One Life to Live, and All My Children. Most recently, he has become the face of Capcom Viral Video for popular video game, Bionic Commando.

T.J.’s affinity for fine arts stems from his childhood— his father, a jazz musician, and mother, an artist, emphasized the importance of art throughout T.J.’s upbringing, even naming their son after famed American jazz pianist and composer, Thelonious Monk. Upon college graduation, T.J. focused his efforts on acting, while maintaining a level of physical activity that met his life-long fitness interests.

Thelonious introduces a new approach to fitness training— as he has shared on leading television program Extra, T.J. stresses the importance of preserving the body, and practices the belief that each individual should treat their unique form as a temple. Customizing training sessions to fit the needs and goals of each individual client, T.J. provides full-body workouts that target problem areas to achieve results. Results-driven, T.J. organizes total, comprehensive training sessions that positively affect the client’s physical form, while helping to instate healthier, happier lifestyle choices into his/her everyday life.

Thelonious organizes comprehensive training sessions that positively affect the client’s physical form, while helping to instate healthier, happier lifestyle choices into everyday life. T.J., being an adrenaline-junkie with interests such as snowboarding and extreme sports, offers workouts that embody his own interests. For thrill-seekers in search of an action and adventure-driven workout, he offers extreme outdoor training, providing sessions that feature mountain-biking, hiking, “tough man” workouts and boot camps.

For more information on T.J.’s fitness tips and motivation.

Welcome to Catskill Farms: The low-key celebrity hangout

2010-03-31T22:15:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Catskill Farms: The low-key celebrity hangout
March 31, 2010

As a classic symbol of a simple, traditional and romantic way of life, designer and builder Charles Petersheim has re-envisioned the “old American house.” Providing picture-perfect countryside escapes from bustling New York City, Petersheim has singlehandedly transformed the architectural landscape of Upstate New York, while accruing a diverse celebrity and media clientele including Albert Hammond Jr., guitarist of The Strokes; David Cross, Comedian, Actor, and Author; Gavin McInnes, founder of Vice Magazine; Rob Christofaro, Founder of fashion line ALife Limited Street Wear; Leah McSweeney, Founder of fashion line Married to the Mob; Benoist Drut, Founder of Mid-Century French Antiques, Maison Gerard; and David Loud, Broadway Composer. A-list neighbors include Michelle Williams, Jennifer Lopez, Mark Ruffalo and Joan Osborne.

As a designer and builder of traditional homes with modern amenities, Catskill Farms has reinvigorated the architectural landscape of Sullivan County real estate. Over the past four years, Catskill Farms has designed, built and sold in excess of 40 new/old homes in Sullivan County, becoming the leading designer and builder of Upstate New York getaways. Providing a serene escape for those residing in bustling New York City, the Catskill Farms clientele base is largely composed of city residents ranging in ages thirty-two to forty-four years old. From young musicians, actors and comedians, to fashion entrepreneurs, alternative magazine publishers and lawyers, an extensive array of urban professionals have come to Catskill Farms in search of scenic homes, allowing for this small real estate company to outperform many larger firms during a challenging time for the property development industry.

Catskill Farms revisits the history of the area with our construction of country cottages and farmhouses — that are inspired by the traditional building styles. With new home construction eliminating any old home worries, residents have the best of both worlds— early American architecture, wide plank floors, fireplaces, painted salvaged wood ceilings, wrap-around porches, not to mention whole-house audio, security systems, and modern kitchens. Capturing the charm, beauty and character of the early 1900s. Catskill Farms eliminates all of the hassle and maintenance issues related to an old house.

Good homes have a soul, and Catskill Farms strives to ensure its homes provide not only sound and stylish construction, but also a sense of history— homes are constructed with authentic turn-of-the-century regional architecture as the basis of the design. Fireplaces, wide plank floors, shaker-style cabinets, and huge porches are installed as well.

In addition, Catskill Farms wants everyone to be able to afford a countryside escape, hence their brand new mini-cottages series. Priced from $225k to $400k, these homes feature two bedrooms, as well as a spacious floor plan and lots of open interior space. The sizeable basements continually amaze Catskill Farms’ space-starved clients.

Plan your A-Lister Fete with Insignia Productions

2010-03-25T22:35:00.001-04:00

Plan your A-Lister Fete with Insignia Productions
March 25, 2010

Guestlists, themes, food, décor, music, venue— with so many countless details that go into planning an event, it’s no wonder that so many people seek outside help when planning their special occasions…which is where Insignia Productions steps in.

A luxury full-service event-planning firm, Insignia Productions specializes in intricate and inspired design, customized planning and the logistical production of all event types and sizes – from professional meetings and conferences to weddings and birthday bashes – based in New York City, the Hamptons and Los Angeles. Client specific, Insignia Productions works to fulfill the individualized needs of its clientele. Insignia Productions Owner, Ranee Bartolacci-Meir builds a personal relationship with every client, making certain that he/she is granted the necessary level of attention, which derives from a boutique firm. With her team, Ranee manages each event from beginning-to-end— attending each meeting, ensuring that the chosen theme is carried throughout all aspects of the event and each component is meticulously planned, absolute focus is placed on even the smallest of details. Ranee’s uniquely hands-on approach allows her insight into each client’s personality, resulting in events that are is carefully-crafted according to the client’s wishes, tastes and style. With an extensive background in New York City’s event-planning industry, Ranee established Insignia Productions in 2008, inspired by her passion for working one-on-one with clients, helping to celebrate milestones and create memories.

Insignia Productions offers three levels of service to its clientele to fit individual needs— Full Service (includes vendor suggestions, contract negotiations, production timeline, and the coordination of logistics the day of the event. From start-to-finish, each and every detail of the affair is planned and executed by Insignia Productions); A La Carte (perfect for the client who has planned much of the event on his/her own, but requires assistance with remaining vendors and details of the occasion); Day of Assistance (timeline construction and logistic coordination— includes one meeting prior to the day of event, logistical coordination and one Insignia Productions team member on-site for the day of the event).

Past Insignia Productions events have ranged from the traditional – a classic New York City wedding, held at the Plaza Hotel with entertainment by Kool & the Gang – to the trendsetting – including an Asian-fusion wedding at L.A.’s Walt Disney Concert Hall (featured in Bridal Guide Magazine), a fragrance launch-themed thirteen-year-old birthday, and chilly ice-themed soirée, complete with ice bar and décor. Recently, Insignia Productions organized and produced a pre-Oscar’s lunch with legendary filmmaker Quentin Tarantino to celebrate his eight-time Academy Award-nominated film, Inglorious Basterds.

For further information, please visit www.insigniaproductions.com.

Ambassador John L. Loeb jr. to Deliver "Beyond Tolerance" at the 41st Annual Herbert H. Lehman Memorial Lecture

2010-03-24T22:36:00.001-04:00

Ambassador John L. Loeb jr. to Deliver "Beyond Tolerance" at the 41st Annual Herbert H. Lehman Memorial Lecture
March 24, 2010

The selection of Ambassador John L. Loeb Jr. to present the Herbert H. Lehman Memorial Lecture on March 25 marks the first time a descendant of the Lehman family has been invited to address this event. Lehman College has the tradition of inviting well-known speakers for the annual event and past speakers have included Israel’s Abba Eban, Kitty Carlisle Hart, chairman of the New York State Council of the Arts until her death in 2007, former U.S. Senators George McGovern, Daniel Moynihan, Albert Gore Sr. and George J Mitchell, and noted historian Arthur M. Schlesinger. Ambassador Loeb, who represented the United States in Denmark from 1981-1983 is the founder of the George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom. He will address the 41st Annual Herbert H. Lehman memorial event on the subject of tolerance.

Herbert H. Lehman, for whom the Memorial Lecture is named, was the son of one of three founders of the original investment bank, Lehman Brothers, where he worked for 30 years. He later served both as governor of New York State and as a U.S. senator, having a clear passion for business, politics, and philanthropy. A veteran of World War I, during the Second World War he was the first director of the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration (UNRRA) created by President Franklin Roosevelt, which provided aid to the population of the Allied nations. The work of UNRRA involved the shipment of some 18 million tons of clothing, shoes and bedding to war ravaged countries. Following the war in 1946, Lehman College in the Bronx, an arm of the City University of New York became the temporary headquarters of the United Nations with early U.N. Security Council meetings held in the college gymnasium.

Herbert H. Lehman was not afraid to stand up and speak out against political injustices of the day. In the early 1950s, he was one of the earliest opponents of Senator Joseph McCarthy and his ideologically motivated hearings of individuals suspected of communist leanings.

For former US Ambassador to Denmark, John L. Loeb Jr. the opportunity to speak on a subject of deep personal passion, “Beyond Tolerance” is not only a privilege but also a deeply satisfying personal event for he shares his ancestor’s passion for speaking out on issues of religious freedom. Ambassador Loeb has recently produced a book about the contribution of early Jewish families to the United States and is championing educational projects regarding George Washington’s early efforts to establish religious freedom in this country.

The Lecture will be held on Thursday March 25, 2010 at 11:00am in the Monroe and Rose Lovinger Theatre at Lehman College.

For further information, please visit.

Filmaker N.C. Heikin's Critically Acclaimed Kimjongilia Opens in New York City

2010-03-23T11:50:00.001-04:00

FILMMAKER N.C. HEIKIN’S CRITICALLY-ACCLAIMED KIMJONGILIA OPENS IN NEW YORK CITY

Kimjongilia is a haunting look at the reality inside the most secretive country in the world. Told from the perspectives of North Korean refugees who shine light on the atrocities taking place in their homeland, and juxtaposed with clips from North Korea's mass propaganda machine that has indoctrinated citizens to worship the North Korean leadership, Kimjongilia is a film that shocks, enlightens and stays with you. –Laura Ling, journalist, held captive in North Korea over five months in 2009.

KIMJONGILIA, The Flower of Kim Jong Il (Lorber Films), is the first film to fully expose the humanitarian crisis of North Korea, examining the mass illusion possible under totalitarianism and the human rights abuses required to maintain that illusion.

North Korea is governed by a totalitarian regime that has controlled all information entering and leaving the country for the sixty years since the conflict with South Korea. A cult of personality surrounds its two leaders: Kim Il-Sung (“Great Leader”), and his son, Kim Jong-Il (“Dear Leader”). For Kim Jong Il’s 46th birthday, a hybrid red begonia named kimjongilia was created, symbolizing wisdom, love, justice, and peace. The film draws its title from the rarefied flower and reveals the extraordinary stories told by survivors of North Korea’s vast prison camps, devastating famine, and every kind of oppression. Filmmaker N.C. Heikin provides a historical backdrop to North Korea’s situation in her deeply moving documentary that examines why defectors fled, gives accounts of their harrowing escapes, and reveals the dangers they face in China, hunted by both Chinese and North Korean police. The refugees, who were interviewed in South Korea, where they now live, come from every walk of life, from child concentration camp inmates to an elite concert pianist. Their stories, however, all speak to repression and the breaking of body-and-soul. In essence, these humble heroes are inspiring, for despite their unimaginable suffering, they continue to hold out hope for a better future. For further information on Kimjongilia, please visit here, or the Facebook Fan page here. For film times and tickets, please visit www.cinemavillage.com.

ABOUT N.C. HEIKIN: A student of dance and theatre at Sarah Lawrence College, N.C. Heikin began working at La Mama Experimental Theatre Club upon graduation, with Wilford Leach and Andrei Serban, among others. There, Heikin created the title role in La Mama’s renowned production, Carmilla as well as a series of interdisciplinary performance pieces, shown in New York City and at theatre festivals around the world. Her performance background is exhibited in the manner in which she has crafted this innovative documentary. In 1986, Heikin began screenwriting with commissions from Paramount and Disney and has since done movies for television and episodic work. Heikin made her film directing debut in 2004, with her prizewinning narrative short, mañana, which debuted on Indiepix in May 2008. Kimjongilia is her first documentary. It received a grant from the Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program and was invited to the Sundance Story & Edit Lab in June 2008. It premiered at Sundance 2009 and has since played in festivals around the world, including the Sarasota Film Festival, San Francisco International Film Festival, Seattle International Film Festival, Docuwest, Hamburg Film Festival, Vancouver International Film Festival, and South Korea’s Pusan International Film Festival.

Queen of Fur Helen Yarmak Unveils Her Fall/Winter 2010 Fur & jewelry Collections in an Exclusive Preview

2010-03-09T19:37:00.019-05:00

THE QUEEN OF FUR—HELEN YARMAK UNVEILS HER FALL/WINTER 2010 FUR & JEWELRY COLLECTIONS IN AN EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW

Helen Yarmak, known to fashion insiders as the Queen of Fur—adorning the likes of Beyoncé, Rihanna, Chloe Sevigny and Steven Spielberg—unveiled her glamorous Fall/Winter 2010 Fur & Jewelry Collections in an exclusive fashion show at her NYC showroom. Mingling amongst the fashion-forward crowd included Celebrity Fashion Stylist Patricia Field and Olympic Gold Medal Figure Skater Oksana Baiul.

The evening included an art presentation by Barry Meisel, BMV Fine Art, LLC with works by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, Motherwell and Marylin Minter, a live jazz ensemble including vocalist Deanna Kirk, guitarist Chris Flory, saxophonist Harry Allen, bassist Clovis Nicolas and classical musical performance by Ezter Szilveszter (viola) and Artur Kaganovskiy (violin), as and a silent auction. A portion of the evening’s sales from Helen Yarmak furs and jewelry, as well as a Silent Auction, went to benefit the NYU International Prostate Cancer Research Foundation. Guests enjoyed gourmet bites by Opia Restaurant and cocktails by Akvinta Vodka.

For Fall/Winter 2010-2011, Helen Yarmak has showcased luxurious furs, including sable, mink, chinchilla and broadtail, in trendsetting silhouettes and vibrant colors. in distinctive styling, Helen Yarmak’s fur collections come in an array of colors, from the natural and neutral – grey, white, black and rich chocolate tones – to the enticingly bold - (sapphire blue and emerald green). From glamorous long coats to chic short jackets that add a level of exquisite elegance and allure to any woman’s wardrobe, to luxe yet masculine men’s coats and leather jackets, Helen Yarmak furs are inimitably designed in a range of styles.

The Helen Yarmak Jewelry Collections are comprised of intricate, luxury designs that sparkle with elegant style. Glittering diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds and semi-precious stones make up the breathtaking jewelry designs — a full collection of statement-making necklaces, eye-catching cocktail rings and dazzling earrings, as well as cufflinks for men, complement Helen Yarmak’s fashion designs.

For more information on Helen Yarmak, please visit www.helenyarmak.com.

Serenity™ & The Canada Dry Bottling Company Team Up Delivering A Sense of Zen to Bustling New Yorkers

2010-03-09T13:19:00.000-05:00

Serenity™ & The Canada Dry Bottling Company Team Up Delivering A Sense of Zen to Bustling New Yorkers

Next Generation Beverage LLC, the maker of Serenity Zen Beverage™ and a leader in the relaxation beverage category, has entered into a distribution agreement with one of the largest soft drink distribution groups in the United States— The Canada Dry Bottling Company of New York. This partnership will give Serenity™ a potential distribution in over 25,000 points in the New York City/ Greater Metropolitan Area, including the city’s five boroughs, Westchester and Long Island, and nine Northern & Central New Jersey counties— Bergen, Essex, Union, Middlesex, Passaic, Somerset, Hudson, Sussex, and Morris Counties.

With four distribution centers and over 150 beverage transports on the road each day, Canada Dry Bottling of New York’s experienced sales team will be a key component to Serenity™’s ability to provide excellent service to all points of distribution in the New York City/ Greater Metropolitan Area.

About Serenity Zen Beverage™: Sip your way to tranquility—an innovative blend of vitamins, natural flavors and extracts and a relaxing and tranquil formula, Serenity™ grants your wish to relax and unwind. Relax responsibly: with a sweetly-flavored vanilla taste, Serenity™ is a non-alcoholic source of relief and recovery, boasting zero calories, sugar and carbohydrates. Serenity™ is your relaxation must-have— whether you are in need of a comforting cap to a long day’s work, calmed nerves before a flight or just a sweet start to that long-awaited vacation. You may still have that 8:00AM meeting tomorrow, but for now, you have 8.4oz. of Zen.

About Next Generation Beverage, LLC: Based in Hoboken, NJ, Next Generation Beverage, LLC has in its portfolio a relaxation beverage offering—Serenity™ that is one of the fastest growing brands in the country. In addition to Serenity™, the company’s portfolio also boasts Sin™ & Sin-Free Vitality Energy™ drinks. For store locations and further details, please visit www.drinkserenity.com, www.drinkinsin.com and www.nextgenerationbeverage.com.

The Hurt Locker Celebrates at London's Chic Automat's Almada

2010-02-21T19:37:00.000-05:00

THE HURT LOCKER CELEBRATES AT LONDON’S CHIC AUTOMAT’S ALMADA

Automat's Almada, London's hottest haunt under the chic, celeb-favorite eatery Automat, was host to the official after-party for The Hurt Locker following the film's six-award-sweep at the BAFTA Awards. Director Kathryn Bigelow, starring lead actor Jeremy Renner, producers Nicolas Chartier and Greg Shapiro, and screenwriter Mark Boal were all seen celebrating the night’s honors. Also spotted was movie producer Harvey Weinstein, who kept the party going after his own fête with A Single Man's Colin Firth, Carey Mulligan and the Olsen twins, celebrating until 6:00AM.

The Hurt Locker, which stars Jeremy Renner, Ralph Fiennes, Evangeline Lilly, Guy Pierce and Anthony Mackie, continues to earn impressive critical acclaim. At the BAFTA Awards, the film garnered awards for Best Film, Best Director (Kathryn Bigelow), Best Original Screenplay (Mark Boal), Best Cinematography, Best Editing and Best Sound. Looking ahead, The Hurt Locker is nominated for nine Academy Awards.

Automat fuses London's pleasure-seeking social appetite with New York's inimitable style, as an American Brasserie, Automat draws on New York's cultural and social energy beloved by Londoners, presented as a refined yet relaxed, stylish dining experience. This cultural exchange between the world’s two greatest cities is now home to Almada— tucked away below the chic dining locale, Almada has quickly become one a globally exclusive spots and a must-visit venue for London-bound celebrities. For further information, please visit www.automat-london.com.

Celebrity Hairstylist Amoy Pitters & Host Joy Bryant celebrate the opening of hot, new Salon — Amoy Couture Hair

2010-02-16T19:37:00.000-05:00

CELEBRITY HAIRSTYLIST AMOY PITTERS & HOST JOY BRYANT CELEBRATE THE OPENING OF HOT, NEW SALON—AMOY COUTURE HAIR

It’s official—sought-after celebrity hairstylist Amoy Pitters, hair diva behind the locks of Naomi Campbell, Alicia Keys, Sheryl Crow and Rihanna to name a few, has launched her highly-anticipated, new salon Amoy Couture Hair. Joy Bryant hosted the opening festivities mid-Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, with music by DJ Cassidy. Among the chic crowd mingling, dancing and sipping on Cîroc Diddy cocktails and Oriel Wines were Rachel Roy, Fashion Stylist Phillip Bloch, Emil Wilbekin, and Sports Illustrated swimsuit model Damaris Lewis. Joy toasted her longtime friend and hairstylist, Amoy, congratulating and praising her to attendees at the close of the evening.

A New York beauty industry veteran mentored by industry icon, Odile Gilbert – and featured in the famed work Her Style – Amoy launched her impressive career as a sought-after hair stylist, booking her career-first fashion show in Paris, styling the locks of the runway models for the Christian Dior couture collection in January 1998. Fashion maven Donatella Versace was next in line and, from there, Amoy was in-demand worldwide, styling hair for editorials and fashion shows, and transforming the looks of supermodels, Hollywood starlets, iconic fashion designers, and Grammy Award-winning musicians. Today, her impressive clientele includes Kerry Washington, Mary J. Blige, Joy Bryant, Selita Ebanks and Maggie Rizer.

As a full-service beauty salon, Amoy Couture Hair offers a wide range of beauty treatments for hair, nails and skin. With a chic, intimate atmosphere, every client that walks into Amoy Couture Hair is guaranteed to receive true VIP treatment. Plush seating and the glittering light from the chandeliers that hang overhead, clients are treated to luxurious comfort in a stylish setting. Amoy Couture Hair also boasts a Celebrity/VIP Room where shy style mavens can opt to have their hair styled away from the rest of the salon. Amoy’s special brand of expertise sets the salon apart from others in the industry. One of Amoy’s most sought-after signature styles is extensions, having perfected a number of techniques. Her one-of-a-kind approach to this complicated beauty procedure is known for creating beautiful looks that are easily maintained, modified and recognized in the industry as Amoy’s trademark. Amoy’s expertise also includes editorial, bridal, celebrity, blow-dry, cut and color styling.

For further information about Amoy, please visit www.amoycouturehair.com.

Jennifer Kandemir For Advanced Derma Laser Tech inc. Celebrates the Center's 10th Anniversary with Latisse

2010-02-11T19:37:00.000-05:00

JENNIFER KANDEMIR FOR ADVANCED DERMA LASER TECH INC. CELEBRATES THE CENTER’S 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH LATISSE®

Beauty Expert, Jennifer Kandemir for Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc. celebrated the 10th Anniversary of her leading, groundbreaking hair removal center, located on New York City’s prestigious Madison Avenue with Latisse®, the revolutionary beauty treatment used to grow eyelashes, making them longer, thicker and darker. Guests enjoyed bites and cocktails, while experiencing the latest techniques in facial and body hair removal in an Introductory Session, receiving a complimentary prescription for Latisse®, as well as indulging in goodie bags valued at $100. The Beauty Bash also featured an exclusive giveaway for a free Latisse® kit and BOTOX® treatment.

Jennifer, owner of Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc. and a veteran of the beauty industry, is inspired by a personal mission to rid the negative self-images of unwanted body hair from others, transforming the lives of her clients through her work. Personalized attention and service sets Advanced Derma Laser Tech Inc. apart from others in the industry— upon a client’s first visit, he/she is greeted with a one-on-one consultation to address any questions or concerns they might have. The chicly-decorated space boasts an elegantly clean aesthetic, producing a tranquil atmosphere that sets clients at ease from the moment they step inside. Advanced Derma Laser Tech. Inc. employs two state-of-the-art types of laser hair removal technology – the Cutera Nd: YAG and the Alexandrite by Candela Gentle Laser – according to skin color/type. For further information, please visit www.advanceddermalaser.com.

ABOUT LASER HAIR REMOVAL: Each body area requires six treatments, spaced six-to-eight weeks apart, to ensure permanent hair reduction. The length of time for each treatment varies dependent upon body area, ranging from one minute (e.g., upper lip), to fifteen minutes (e.g., bikini line), to one hour (e.g., legs). Laser hair removal is most successful for those with darker hair, resulting in permanent reduction. While those with lighter hair may not see completely permanent results, laser treatments will cause the hair to grow softer and less frequently.

The Weinstein Company & Insignia Productions Celebrates Quentin Tarantino at Star-Studded Lunch

2010-02-10T19:37:00.000-05:00

THE WEINSTEIN COMPANY & INSIGNIA PRODUCTIONS CELEBRATES QUENTIN TARANTINO AT STAR-STUDDED LUNCH

The Weinstein Company and hot, new event-planning company, Insignia Productions – owned by Ranee Bartolacci-Meir – held an afternoon fête for legendary Director Quentin Tarantino, toasting the Academy Award-nominated film, Inglourious Basterds at legendary L.A. eatery, Musso & Frank’s. The day’s A-list guest-list – including Eli Roth, Ron Howard, Jacqueline Bisset, Jon Voight, Harvey Weinstein, Norman Lloyd, Martin Landau, Cloris Leachman, Bruce Davison, Sam Jean, Irwin Winkler and Lawrence Bender – enjoyed a gourmet lunch and brief speech by the honored filmmaker himself.

The critically-acclaimed film has made a splash this 2010 Awards Season, taking home the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor (Christoph Waltz), and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Best Cast and Best Supporting Actor (Christoph Waltz). Inglorious Basterds has been nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best picture, Best Supporting Actor (Christoph Waltz), Best Director (Quentin Tarantino) and Best Original Screenplay. Written and directed by Quentin Tarantino, Inglourious Basterds stars Brad Pitt, Christoph Waltz and Mélanie Laurent and tells the story of two plots to assassinate Nazi Germany's political leadership.

Insignia Productions is a luxury full-service event production company specializing in intricate inspired design, customized planning and the logistical production of private and corporate functions, based in New York City. Client specific, Insignia Productions works to fulfill the individualized needs of its clientele, personalizing each event through distinguishing imaginative design. Owner, Ranee Bartolacci-Meir enjoys working one-on-one with clients, helping to celebrate milestones and create memories. For further information, please visit www.insigniaproductions.com.

The Global Leaders Meet in New York City

2010-02-09T19:37:00.000-05:00

THE GLOBAL LEADERS MEET IN NEW YORK CITY

The Global Leaders – the largest exclusive senior level business network in the world – recently hosted its inaugural meeting in New York City at the prestigious Yale Club. This inaugural meeting was the first face-to-face meeting of The Global Leaders, held for individuals who are running businesses and who hold, or have held, the title of Partner, President, CEO or member of their organization’s Board of Directors. Attending members of The Global Leaders were given the opportunity to network with peers, to share information and insights, to facilitate business relationships and to agree on a way forward as a group. The meeting had an impressive turnout with over 120 key representatives attending the event.

The evening was host to two notable guest speakers— the first was Frederick Frank, former Vice Chairman of Lehman Brothers and Barclays Capital, who gave an insightful and stimulating talk on capital markets, with a focus on the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries and the possibilities they have going forward.

Next, spoke Ambassador Ahmad Kamal, who served as a professional diplomat in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan for close to forty years, during which time he held diplomatic postings in India, Belgium, France, the Soviet Union, Saudi Arabia, the Republic of Korea, and with the United Nations both in Geneva and in New York. He continues to be a Senior Fellow of the United Nations Institute of Training and Research and a Visiting Professor at six American universities. His speech on globalization and the change engendered by emerging markets was topical and thought-provoking.

The morning after the meeting The Global Leaders were honored at the Opening Bell Ceremony at NASDAQ. Co-Founder George Bickerstaff made a brief speech about the inaugural meeting and rang the opening bell. The ceremony was aired on BNN, Fox, Fox Business, and CNBC.

Established in 2009, The Global Leaders aims to connect people across the four pillars of business, government, education, and philanthropy through intergroup communication; such communication is achieved through providing opportunities, such as the New York City meeting, for members to meet face-to-face, network, and discuss their collective and individual impact. The Global Leaders has 40,000+ key executives in its group, including 12,800 who participate in one of the organization’s senior leadership groups. Members of The Global Leaders lead, or have led, over 10,000 global companies with revenue exceeding $7.0 trillion, assets exceeding $50 trillion and employing over 25 million people in 160+ industries and 84 countries. The Global Leaders is present in over 100 countries, supporting over 150 industries, and managing assets that total over $50 trillion. Founded less than a year ago, The Global Leaders is adding over 100 key executives per week. Upcoming meetings will be held in Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

For more information on The Global Leaders, please visit www.tgleaders.com.

Racecar Driver Tim George Jr. signs with Richard Childress Racing for 2010 ARCA Racing Series

2010-02-06T15:19:00.000-05:00

RACECAR DRIVER TIM GEORGE JR. SIGNS WITH RICHARD CHILDRESS RACING FOR 2010 ARCA RACING SERIES

Catching the attention of motorsport fans and veterans alike, Richard Childress Racing (RCR) recently announced it has signed Tim George Jr. as a developmental driver to compete full-time in the 2010 ARCA Racing Series, presented by RE/MAX.

As the season is scheduled to start on February 6, 2010 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, FL., RCR will field the No. 31 Chevrolet Impala for Tim throughout the twenty-race ARCA Series season, competing on seventeen different tracks, concluding on October 9, 2010 at Rockingham Speedway in Rockingham, NC. A crew chief for the team will be named at a later date.

“The goal of RCR’s driver development program is to enhance and strengthen the skills needed to compete at NASCAR's top levels,” explains Mike Dillon, Vice President of Competition for Richard Childress Racing who also oversees the Driver Development Program. “A second season in the ARCA Series will allow Tim to further develop his driving skills in a stock car since he only has one year of experience. We'll put together a strong crew chief and team that will allow Tim the opportunity to develop his talents to the fullest.”

In the 2009 ARCA RE/MAX Series, his rookie season, Tim finished 11th in the competition’s point standings, with a best finish of 5th at New Jersey after starting second-to-last. Tim made his RCR debut on November 13, 2009 at the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at Phoenix International Raceway, where he qualified 26th and finished 29th after getting caught up in an accident on lap 132.

“I am honored by the opportunity to work with, and learn from, Richard Childress, Mike Dillon and the rest of the RCR team. I am ready to absorb as much as possible in 2010 from the wealth of knowledge that the organization holds,” says Tim. “My No. 1 goal is to enhance my ability at setting up these cars. Another season in the ARCA Series, in which I have competed on most of the tracks, will allow me to better focus on such. At the moment, we are in the process of finding the right crew chief that will help me learn the most. I'm looking forward to testing with my new team at Daytona later this month.”

About Richard Childress Racing:
Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2009, Richard Childress Racing has earned more than 180 victories and 12 NASCAR championships, including six in the Sprint Cup Series with the legendary Dale Earnhardt. RCR was the first organization to win championships in the Sprint Cup Series, Nationwide Series and Camping World Truck Series. RCR's tenure in the ARCA Series dates back to the early 1990s with driver Charlie Glotzbach who won at Talladega Superspeedway in 1990, 1991 and 1992 in an RCR-prepared car. Glotzbach also won in an RCR car at Atlanta Motor Speedway in 1990. RCR has also fielded ARCA cars for Clint Bowyer (finished second at Nashville Superspeedway in 2003) and Childress’s grandson Austin Dillon in 2009. In addition to finishing 15th at Kentucky Speedway, Dillon earned a pair of runner-up finishes in the RCR car at Michigan International Speedway and Iowa Speedway. RCR also fielded a car for second-generation driver Kyle Grissom at Rockingham Speedway in 2009.

About Tim George Jr.:
As a young boy growing up in New York City, Tim George Jr.’s first love was his father’s 1964 Corvette Sting Ray. At 28, Tim has transformed his childhood passion into a career in the world of professional auto racing, with the ultimate goal of becoming a NASCAR Spring Cup Series driver. Working through an intense, action-packed 2009 racing schedule, Tim has proven himself a force to be reckoned with on the racetrack— competing in the 2009 ARCA RE/MAX Series, in addition to select Gran-Am Rolex events, NASCAR Truck and Nationwide events, and in the NASCAR Whelen Series. Graduating from the University of Miami with a B.A. in English and a Double Minor in History and Economics, Tim was drawn to motorsports in 2004, when his passion for cooking led him to cater events for the Ferrari Challenge Series in hopes of someday owning his own restaurant— there, Tim fell in love all over again with the sound, smell and excitement of racing. By 2007, Tim was competing regularly in the Grand-American Koni Challenge Series where he earned a podium experience in his first season of professional motorsports. Tim quickly moved up to compete in one of the highest forms of sports car racing in the world, the Grand-Am Rolex Series with The Racer’s Group. He earned the title of 2008 MESCO “Building for the Future” Rolex Rookie of the Year, and finished an impressive fourth place in the Rolex GT Championship.

www.timgeorgejr.com is updated frequently with news, press, and racing results.
Follow Tim George Jr. at www.twitter.com/TimGeorgeJr.

Kim Porter and Next Generation Beverage, LLC Host a Lunch for Grammy Award-Winning Artist, Estelle

2010-01-30T19:37:00.000-05:00

KIM PORTER AND NEXT GENERATION BEVERAGE, LLC HOST A LUNCH FOR GRAMMY AWARD-WINNING ARTIST, ESTELLE

On the eve of 52nd Annual Grammy Awards, Kim Porter and leading, innovative beverage company, Next Generation Beverage, LLC hosted an afternoon lunch at L.A. hotspot, Philippe Chow. The afternoon, held in anticipation of cutting-edge, Grammy Award-Winning Recording Artist, Estelle’s highly-anticipated album, All of Me, also previewed an exclusive tasting of hot, new beverages—Serenity Zen Beverage®, Sin Vitality Drink® and Sin-Free Vitality Drink®.

As the Award Season continues with the music industry’s most highly-acclaimed event, Estelle, with already one Grammy Award under her belt, celebrates her return to the music scene with her forthcoming sophomore album, All of Me.

The who’s-who of Tinseltown was in attendance including, actor Hill Harper, actress Claudia Jones (Deal or No Deal, Celebrity Apprentice 2), actor Darrin Henson (Stomp the Yard), DJ K-SLY, actor Drew Seeley (The Disney Channel), actress/model Jaimie Hilfiger, BET Host Leslie “Big Lez” Segar, actor Michael Epps, Minnesota Timberwolves’ Rashad McCants, model Shawn Palm, BET 106th & Park’s Terrence J., actor Trason Bragg, Showtime’s Soul Food’s Vanessa Williams and William “Thunder” Smith (NBC’s American Gladiators). Guests mingled throughout the afternoon, fêting Estelle’s new, upcoming album. Estelle burst onto the music scene in 2008 with her collaborative hit single with Kanye West, American Boy— hitting the Top Ten of music charts around the globe, ranking as No. 7 on Rolling Stone’s 100 Best Songs of 2008.

For further information on Next Generation Beverage, LLC and the beverages, please visit www.nextgenerationbeverage.com, www.drinkserenity.com, and www.drinkinsin.com. For further information on Estelle and her new album, please visit www.estellemusic.com .

A Sports Fan's Dream - Next Generation Beverage, LLC Presents the First Annual Action for Autism Gala and Donates $10,000

2010-01-21T19:37:00.000-05:00

A SPORTS FAN’S DREAM—NEXT GENERATION BEVERAGE, LLC PRESENTS THE FIRST ANNUAL ACTION FOR AUTISM GALA AND DONATES $10,000

Last night, innovative, new beverage company Next Generation Beverage, LLC presented the First Annual Auction for Autism Gala, the company’s first philanthropic involvement. Autism, a cause close to the Next Generation Beverage team’s hearts, the evening benefitted both the National Autism Association and the Eden II Programs.

The evening’s guests included New York sports stars Giants Running Back, Brandon Jacobs, the New York Mets’ No. 1 Prospect, Fernando Martinez, and New York Rangers’ Ron Greschner, whom all enjoyed the soirée which included a Dinner, crafted by iconic New York City restaurant, Marina del Ray, as well as a highly anticipated Sports Memorabilia Silent Auction. Additionally, at the close of the night’s festivities, guests took home exclusive, autographed framed pictures of Jacobs and Martinez, and received a photograph with each player to be mailed following the event.

The Silent Auction’s hot ticket items included a signed photo of baseball hero Mickey Mantle and legendary Yankee manager Billy Martin, signed helmets by Joe Namath and Terry Bradshaw, signed Derek Jeter photo, signed A-Rod baseball and an Eli Manning game shirt. In addition to the amount raised by the auction, Next Generation Beverage made two donations each for $5,000—one to the National Autism Association and one to the Eden II Programs.

The mission of the National Autism Association is to educate and empower families affected by autism and other neurological disorders, while advocating on behalf of those who cannot fight for their own rights. The mission of the Eden II Programs is to provide people with autism specialized community-based programs and other opportunities, with the goal of enabling them to achieve the highest possible quality of living across their life spans.

ABOUT NEXT GENERATION BEVERAGE, LLC: With a goal to revitalize the beverage industry with innovative products and marketing, Next Generation Beverage, LLC, is the brainchild of a team of businessmen – Rich Wilson, Ross Pantano, Thomas Toscano, Luis Fernandez and Nat Salvemini – each eager to revolutionize the soft drinks industry. Since its inception in the spring of 2009, Next Generation Beverage operations are devoted primarily to start-up and development activities, including obtaining start-up capital, developing the corporate hierarchy, establishing a business plan and identifying and contacting suppliers of functional beverages. A significant percentage of the company’s resources have been devoted to product development, marketing and sales activities regarding the inceptive products, Sin Vitality Drink®, Sin-Free®, and Serenity Zen Beverage®. Next Generation Beverage concocts and packages beverages that are original, unique blends of energy and relaxing drinks, setting itself apart from others in the marketplace. Unlike a number of its competitors within the beverage industry that originate overseas, Next Generation Beverage products are all domestically-produced. Next Generation Beverage, LLC products are sold through national and regional retailers, as well as local distributors.

For further information, please visit:
Next Generation Beverage, LLC: www.nextgenerationbeverage.com.
National Autism Association: www.nationalautismassociation.org/
Eden II: www.eden2.org

Shirley Maclaine, The Weinstein Company and Next Generation Beverage, LLC Toast Golden Globe Nominated, Nine, With Star-Studded Lunch

2010-01-15T19:37:00.000-05:00

SHIRLEY MACLAINE, THE WEINSTEIN COMPANY AND NEXT GENERATION BEVERAGE, LLC TOAST GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINATED, NINE, WITH STAR-STUDDED LUNCH

Shirley MacLaine, The Weinstein Company and groundbreaking beverage company, Next Generation Beverage, LLC hosted a lunch fêting the star-studded, critically-acclaimed film Nine. Guests including Director Rob Marshall, Bob Balaban, Lisa Rinna, Richard Perry, Frances Fisher, Annette O’Toole, Susan Blakely and Harry Hamlin toasted the film’s cast while enjoying the exclusive preview tasting of new “it” drinks, Serenity Zen Beverage®, Sin Vitality Drink®, and Sin-Free®.

As the Award Season kicked off this weekend with the 67th Annual Golden Globes, Nine celebrated an impressive five nominations including Best Motion Picture, Comedy or Musical; Best Actor, Comedy or Musical (Daniel Day-Lewis); Best Actress, Comedy or Musical (Marion Cotillard); and Best Supporting Actress (Penelope Cruz).

With a goal to revitalize the beverage industry with innovative products and marketing, Next Generation Beverage, LLC, is the brainchild of a team of businessmen – Rich Wilson, Ross Pantano, Thomas Toscano, Luis Fernandez and Nat Salvemini – each eager to revolutionize the soft drinks industry. Next Generation Beverage concocts and packages beverages that are original, unique blends of energy and relaxing drinks, setting itself apart from others in the marketplace.

As its inceptive products, Next Generation Beverage, LLC, recently launched Serenity Zen Beverage® (perfect for those actors and actresses who need to calm their Awards Season jitters), one of the first-ever relaxation beverages with a unique blend of vitamins, natural flavors and extracts and relaxing, tranquil formula, all with zero calories, sugar and carbohydrate and a lightly-carbonated, pleasant taste; and Sin Vitality Drink®, a tempting alternative to other energy drinks with an alluring, revitalizing blend of vitamins, caffeine, natural flavors and a distinct power formula that results in a dynamic, great-tasting burst of vitality, packaged in a stylish, sleek can. Also, look out for Sin-Free®—on the heels of launching Sin® and Serenity®, Next Generation Beverage is set to introduce a sugar-free, low-calorie Vitality Drink counterpart for health conscious drinkers. For further information, please visit www.nextgenerationbeverage.com, www.drinkserenity.com, and www.drinkinsin.com.

Ringing in 2010 with Sin

2009-12-31T19:37:00.000-05:00

RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH SIN

This New Year’s Eve, champagne was out, and cocktails were in. A chic, savvy set of New Yorkers toasted 2010 with the hot, new vitality drink, Sin®. Sin Vitality Drink®’s exclusive preview tasting, held at Social Life Magazine’s New Year’s Eve 2010 fête, featured six tempting cocktails—all highlighting the sweet, lemony flavor of Sin®. With the Prince George Ballroom as the stylish backdrop, guests enjoyed music by DJ Marvilous and Tyger Lilly while sipping on energizing, playful drinks such as Gin & Sin, Sin on the Beach, Sin-City Iced Tea, The Sin Classic, Tequila Sin-Rise and Sin in the City.

A tempting alternative to other energy drinks, Sin Vitality Drink® is an alluring, revitalizing blend of vitamins, caffeine, natural flavors and a distinct power formula, resulting in a dynamic, great-tasting burst of vitality. Available in forthcoming seven ‘deadly sin’ flavors, Sin® is sure to please even the most discerning of energy beverage drinkers.

A departure from the often brash and oversized energy drinks available today, Sin®, is packaged in a stylish, sleek can that evokes a dark nocturnal look— a must-have for any night out, Sin® promises drinkers they won’t miss out on the after-party. The chic, provocatively-designed can is set to become a fixture at the most exclusive, sought-after nighttime haunts. Not a night owl? From busy young professionals seeking a boost during the middle of the work week, to savvy college students in need of an energizing pick-me-up during those ever-present all-nighters, to athletes wishing to jumpstart their workouts or practices, Sin® is the perfect zestful addition to any daily routine. The light, easy-to-carry 8.4oz. can is the perfect on-the-go accessory, whether you’re running out the door in the morning or hopping on the back of your Harley.

On the heels of launching Sin®, Next Generation Beverage is also set to introduce Sin-Free®, a sugar-free, low-calorie counterpart for health conscious drinkers…coming soon to a red carpet near you.

About Next Generation Beverage:
With a goal to revitalize the beverage industry with innovative products and marketing, Next Generation Beverage, LLC is the brainchild of a team of businessmen –Rich Wilson, Ross Pantano, Thomas Toscano, Luis Fernandez and Nat Salvemini – each eager to revolutionize the industry. Next Generation Beverage, LLC concocts and packages beverages that are original, unique blends of energy and relaxing drinks, setting itself apart from others in the marketplace. Unlike a number of its competitors within the beverage industry that originate overseas, Next Generation Beverage, LLC products are all domestically-produced. Sin Vitality Drink® and Serenity Zen Beverage® are the inceptive products of Next Generation Beverage, LLC. For additional information, please visit www.nextgenerationbeverage.com and www.drinkinsin.com.

The Samuel waxman Cancer Research Foundation raises $4.2 Million

2009-11-18T02:27:00.000-05:00

THE SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION RAISES $4.2 MILLION

Held yesterday at New York City landmark The Park Avenue Armory, the 12th Annual Collaborating For a Cure Dinner and Auction benefited the Institute Without Walls®, the worldwide collaborative cancer research program supported by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF). Elin and Michael Nierenberg joined forces with Dale and Peter Claman, Kristin Fizulich, Alyssa and Cliff Greenberg, and Mara and Baron Silverstein to host the event, which was attended by Scientific Director of the Foundation Dr. Samuel Waxman, Headline Performer Steve Winwood, Patti D’Arbanville, Victoria’s Secret Angels Rosie Huntington, Lindsay Ellingson and Candice Swanepoel, Sheila Jaffe, jewelry designer Loree Rodkin, Peter Tunney and Susan Meisel. The annual fête was produced and managed by Robin Lathrop of byRobin and Edward Salas of Backstage Productions. Headlined by Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter, Steve Winwood, the evening was also host to an exciting live auction and performance by The Lost Trailers.

This year, the 12th Annual Collaborating For a Cure raised close to $4.2 Million to support the Foundation’s research efforts to produce a cure for cancer. Known affectionately by New Yorkers as “The Waxman,” the yearly fête is considered to be among the top annual fundraising events in New York City, attended by more than 1,100 corporate executives, Board members and their guests.

During his keynote address, Samuel Waxman, M.D., Scientific Director of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, focused on the continuing work of the Foundation in developing treatments for reversing abnormal cancer cell behavior— the SWCRF is striving to develop therapies to prevent reoccurrence of dormant cancer cells, as it leads the field in understanding what makes cancer cells dormant and creating strategies to eradicate such cells. Calling upon the crowd of smiling guests, Dr. Waxman said, “I hope you will help take us to the next level;” closing his inspirational speech, “I can assure you that cancer does not stop unless we stop cancer. Please join me in that quest.”

The evening’s much-anticipated live and silent auctions offered guests the opportunity to bid on an exciting selection of exclusive items, including four pairs of tickets to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, taking place Thursday, November 19, 2009 in New York City, which generated $125,000. Additional auction highlights included a once-in-a-lifetime cruise amongst the Caribbean Islands for six days/five nights on the luxurious 133-foot custom yacht M/Y Serque, which garnered a winning bid of $95,000; an exclusive getaway via a private flight aboard a Falcon 50 for five friends from New York City to St. Barts, which garnered a winning bid of $85,000; and a private wine tasting dinner in Italian Wine Merchants’ signature event space, Studio del Gusto, which sold twice, each garnered a winning bid of $30,000 for a total of $60,000. The Live Auction was led by C. Hugh Hildesley of Sotheby’s Auction House.

The Foundation’s Institute Without Walls® is a unique collaboration among the world-renowned scientists it funds, who share their knowledge to stimulate cross-fertilization and accelerate the pace of research. The Foundation has made $65+ million in grants supporting more than 160 scientists throughout the United States, Canada, China, Europe and Israel. The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization focusing on one of the most promising strategies for developing cures and treatments for many types of cancer; even offering hope for preventing cancer from developing. It is on the cutting edge of a revolution with alternatives to the traditional treatments of chemotherapy and radiation, which kill cancer (and healthy) cells.

Foundation supported research includes reprogramming chaotically growing cancer cells to behave normally and understanding cancer stem cells’ ability to spread and resistance to treatment. The results will lead to more precisely targeted treatments or preventatives having minimal side effects on the patients.

For more information please visit www.waxmancancer.org.

Alexander & Brenda Von Schweickhardt Host the Launch of Oceana New York with Star-Studded Supporters

2009-10-19T19:00:00.000-04:00

ALEXANDER & BRENDA VON SCHWEICKHARDT HOST THE LAUNCH OF OCEANA NEW YORK WITH STAR-STUDDED SUPPORTERS

Oceana, a nonprofit international advocacy organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans, arrived in New York with a splash. Alexander and Brenda Schweickhardt graciously opened their residence to host the private event that welcomed guests—including Jeff Goldblum, Gina Gershon, Law & Order’s Sam Waterson, John and Joyce Varvatos, Tommy, Dee, and Ally Hilfiger, legendary music producer Nile Rodgers, Lt. Governor of Connecticut Michael Fedele, Patti D'Arbanville, Nancy Hunt, Sarah Farcy McNitt, Linus Roache, Mick Jones, New York Jets tackle Damien Woody, and notable New York figures, Denise Rich, Bettina Zilkha, New York Gubernatorial candidate Rick Lazio, Jean Shafiroff, Philip Glass, Rossano Rubicondi, and Fernanda Kellogg, President of The Tiffany & Co. Foundation and CEO of Macy’s, Terry Lundgren—in celebrating the launch of Oceana New York.

The evening, sponsored by Tiffany & Co., featured an inspiring introduction by Oceana Board Chairman Keith Addis, Oceana Executive Vice President Jim Simon, Sam Waterston and Sue Cohn Rockefeller, as well as the evening’s hosts, about the work of the nonprofit organization, and announced the launching of the New York office.

Since its founding in 2001, Oceana has achieved several major victories including protecting more than 640 million acres of ocean habitat. Oceana’s teams of marine scientists, economists, lawyers and advocates win specific and concrete policy changes to reduce pollution and to prevent the irreversible collapse of fish populations, marine mammals and other sea life. Global in scope and dedicated to conservation, Oceana has campaigners based in North America, Europe and South and Central America. More than 300,000 members and e-activists in over 150 countries have already joined Oceana.

For more information, please visit www.Oceana.org.

Mary J. Blige Inspires at the New York Women's Foundation 2009 Fall Dinner with Uplifting Performance

2009-10-14T19:04:00.000-04:00

MARY J. BLIGE INSPIRES AT THE NEW YORK WOMEN’S FOUNDATION 2009 FALL DINNER WITH UPLIFTING PERFORMANCE

The New York Women’s Foundation® (NYWF) welcomed the who’s-who of New York society for its Fall 2009 Dinner, Stepping Out & Stepping Up, honoring Elizabeth and Herbert Sturz and Sheryl WuDunn and Nicholas D. Kristof. The Stepping Up Award is presented to recognize New Yorkers who serve as role models of courageous leadership, vision and commitment to women and girls as individuals and as partners.

The evening’s attendees included New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Diana Taylor - Co-Chair for the event and Vice Chair of the NYWF Board, Grammy award winning R&B songstress Mary J. Blige, record executive Steve Stoute, Carolyn Buck Luce – Chair of the NYWF Board, Abigail Disney - Honorary Chair of NYWF Board, Agnes Gund, Susan R. Cullman, Anne Bass and Hyatt Bass, Somers Farkas, Jean Shafiroff, Samuel Peabody, Vincent Mai, Deborah Roberts, designer Catherine Malandrino, Dorothy Lichtenstein, Jack Rosenthal, Muffie Potter Aston, Ann Rapp, Sharon Bush, Denise Rich, Debbie Bancroft, and Katlean De Monchy.

Also in attendance for the elegant evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing at Gotham Hall included Consul General of Mexico Ruben Beltran, Commissioner Lilliam Barrios-Paoli, Commissioner Jeanne Mullgrav, Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn, Manhattan Deputy Borough President Rosemonde Pierre-Louis, followed by dinner and dancing. Mary J. Blige sang stunning renditions of her hits “No More Drama” and “One” to an amazed crowd, dedicating her performance to the power and unity of women.

Ana Oliveira, CEO & President spoke about NYWF’s expertise in leveraging strategic partnerships to build economic security for women and families in New York City. Honorees Elizabeth and Herbert Sturz who founded 24 nonprofit and government agencies between them, saluted the Foundation for their work in supporting women. Sheryl WuDunn spoke movingly about the importance of investing in women and girls locally as a prerequisite to investing globally. Nicholas Kristof praised NYWF for holding up ‘two thirds of the sky.’ Islyn Matthews, a successful entrepreneur and participant of Women’s Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDCo), a long-time NYWF grantee partner, moved audiences with a personal story of transformation, embodying the mission of the Foundation.

Co-Chairs for the evening included Hyatt Bass, Sayu V. Bhojwani, Aiyoung Choi, Susan R. Cullman, Grace Hightower De Niro, Somers W. Farkas, Margaret Munzer Loeb, Carolyn Buck Luce, Jean Shafiroff, Diana L. Taylor, Jacqueline P. Togut, and Barbara Brizzi Wynne.

Established in 1987 as a public philanthropy, the New York Women’s Foundation is a cross-cultural alliance of women, serving as a force for change for women. From the outset, the Foundation’s founders strove to identify innovative organizations that were affecting change in the communities they served for women. NYWF strategically funds organizations and programs that move women, girls and families towards long-term economic security through individual transformation and systemic change, mobilizing leaders and community partners as philanthropists and change agents. Over the past twenty-two years, NYWF surpassed $20 million ($20,350,445) in grants to over 240 nonprofit organizations, improving the lives of five million women and girls in New York City. This year, NYWF responded to the economic crisis by launching RISE-NYC!, a partnership initiative and increasing its grant-making by more than 20%.

For more information, please visit www.nywf.org.

Best-Selling Author Melissa De La Cruz Hosts Exclusive New York City Fete for Her Latest novel, The Van Alen Legacy

2009-09-30T18:50:00.000-04:00

BEST-SELLING AUTHOR MELISSA DE LA CRUZ HOSTS EXCLUSIVE NEW YORK CITY FÊTE FOR HER LATEST NOVEL, THE VAN ALEN LEGACY

With Soho’s MEET At The Apartment as the backdrop, New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, Melissa de la Cruz recently fêted the publication of the hotly anticipated fourth installment of the Young Adult series, Blue Bloods— The Van Alen Legacy. International burlesque performer, Veronica Varlow, who has been featured on MTV worldwide, performed a "Vampire Dance" at the event, as guests sipped cocktails, enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and indulged in mini-cupcakes courtesy of CRUMBS Bake Shop.

In de la Cruz’s latest work, the Blue Bloods find themselves in an epic battle for survival. As readers discover in the introductory novel, within New York City’s most elite families, there lurks a secret society of celebrated Americans whose ancestors sailed on the Mayflower. They are the powerful and the prestigious— they are the Blue Bloods, an ancient group of vampires.

The Blue Bloods series has over a million copies in print and has topped the New York Times, USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. It was named #9 in Entertainment Weekly's 20 Greatest Vampires of All Time. The series has been hailed by critics and garnered awards from the American Library Association as a Top Ten pick, the Chicago Public Library Best of the Best, the New York Library Books for the Teenage, the Texas Library's Tayshas list, the Nevada Best Books and the Iowa Best Books. Disney-Hyperion is planning a first printing of 290,000 copies of The Van Alen Legacy and is sending Melissa on a nine-city book tour throughout October and November.

In addition to Blue Bloods, de la Cruz is also the author of The Au Pairs, Ashleys and Angels on Sunset Boulevard series, critically acclaimed and award-winning novels for teens. Her adult books include Cat’s Meow, the anthology Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys and the tongue-in-chic handbooks How to Become Famous in Two Weeks or Less and The Fashionista Files: Adventures in Four-inch heels and Faux-Pas. De la Cruz has also worked as a fashion and beauty editor and has written for many publications including The New York Times, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Allure, The San Francisco Chronicle, McSweeney’s, Teen Vogue, CosmoGirl! and Seventeen. She has also appeared as an expert on fashion, trends and fame for CNN, E! and FoxNews.

Melissa de la Cruz
www.melissa-delacruz.com

Award-winning Educational Documentary Released in Theatres September 2009

2009-09-25T23:01:00.000-04:00

Award-winning Educational Documentary Released in Theatres September 2009

Just in time for the back-to-school season, The Providence Effect (Dinosaurs of the Future), an inspirational feature documentary, hit select theaters in New York City, Chicago, New Jersey, Los Angeles (October 2, 2009), and Washington D.C. on Friday, September 25, 2009.

Chronicling the extraordinary journey of Paul J. Adams III, an educator who has challenged the Chicago school system for thirty years with his revolutionary approach to teaching, The Providence Effect is an emotional, hopeful and awe-inspiring story of student achievement in the face of hardship. Having received praise from a number of film festivals earlier this year – Best Documentary, Omaha Film Festival 2009; Most Inspirational Documentary, Seattle True Independent Film Festival 2009; and Audience Choice Best Documentary, Lake County Film Festival 2009 – The Providence Effect was directed by Rollin Binzer (Director of Ladies and Gentlemen: The Rolling Stones), also a Producer with Tom Hurvis, Co-Producer Joey Dedio and Executive Producer Julie Esch Hurvis.

The Providence Effect showcases Adams’ vision and his school’s successes. Providence St. Mel is a Chicago K-12 private school located on the city’s crime and drug-ridden West Side that has for thirty years placed 100% of its graduates in colleges and universities. On the heels of that success, Adams subsequently established Providence Englewood, a K-8 charter school, which has increased its students test scores by 400% since opening in 2006.

Featuring engaging interviews with students, parents, alumni, teachers and administrators, the film takes the audience from science fairs and concert performances to in-class instruction and graduation, providing an intimate look into the people and teaching methods that have made Providence St. Mel and Providence Englewood national educational success stories. The Providence Effect traces the school’s development from a struggling dream into an institution that produces not only inspired students, but parents, teachers and administrators dedicated to settling for nothing less than the highest expectations.

As national high school dropout rates continue to rise, and slashed state budgets devastate school systems, The Providence Effect presents the story of a compassionate educator who has defied all the odds, to the great benefit of all his students, their parents and teachers.

For more information please visit www.theprovidenceeffect.com.

From Vintage to Vogue, New York's Iconic Delano Steakhouse at Water's Edge Restaurant Re-opens

2009-09-20T16:27:00.001-04:00

From Vintage to Vogue, New York's Iconic Delano Steakhouse at Water's Edge Restaurant

Re-opens

September 20, 2009
With a rich history spanning three decades, Water’s Edge Restaurant has held its own as a historic New York landmark since its establishment in 1981. Recently, the iconic eatery has been re-awakened, redesigned and re-conceptualized under the leadership and ownership of the Singh Hospitality Group, introducing a truly unique and transformed Delano Steakhouse at Water’s Edge dining experience.

Contemporary design meets tradition under a warm, inviting atmosphere at Water’s Edge. Featuring awe-inspiring panoramic views of the iconic Manhattan skyline, Water’s Edge is nestled alongside the East River and boasts exceptional personalized service, delectable cuisine and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Offering a delectable array of dishes, as well as an expertly selected wine list compiled by Wine Director Jay Jadeja and cocktails in the romantically-lit dining room, at the bar, on the outdoor veranda or within the private event space, each features a spectacular view of the Manhattan Skyline and the Queens Borough Bridge. The bar and dining room possesses a classic aesthetic and warm ambiance, as white-linen covered tables are complemented by chic, modern-designed chairs; the lounge, which holds a baby grand piano, plush banquettes and flickering fireplace, is the ideal spot for a romantic evening. The private event space boasts pristine, white walls, accented by spectacularly detailed woodwork. Glittering crystal chandeliers hang overhead, casting a soft glow within the room, as floor-to-ceiling windows and private balcony offer breathtaking views. Water’s Edge exudes comfort and luxury with a number of on-site amenities, including a bridal room. The private event space is the perfect site for any special occasion – from elaborate weddings to intimate anniversary fêtes, the possibilities are endless.

Original culinary creations, and refreshing twists on traditional fare, reflect the Eclectic American cuisine, crafted by Executive Chef Rory O’Farrell under the guidance of Corporate Chef David Salony and using only the season’s finest ingredients. As a start to your meal enjoy Panko Crusted Oysters (Guacamole and a Red Pepper Reduction) or Kung Pao Calamari (Chillis, Peanuts, Hoisin Glaze). As an entrée, the Baby Artichoke Crusted Salmon (Baby Turnips, Spaghetti Squash, Saffron Broth) and Mushroom-Miso Crusted Rack of Lamb (Braised Bok Choy, Whipped Potatoes) are palette-pleasing dishes. For those seeking a true classic New York meal, the selection of Prime Steaks (Filet Mignon, NY Strip, Short Bone Prime Rob) served with your choice of Au Poivre, Bearnaise or a classic Cabernet Demi Glaze is an ideal choice. Remember to save room for dessert, as the Dessert Sampler (Caramelized Pineapple, Piña Colada Shake and Coconut Ice Cream) and Blueberry Tart (with Cinnamon Ice Cream) are sure to indulge any sweet tooth. Having drinks at the bar? Indulge in the Water’s Edge Sunset Cocktail (Grey Goose, Grand Marnier, Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Sour Mix & Grenadine), or have a glass or two of an exquisite wine selected from the extensive wine list.

The Delano Steakhouse at Water’s Edge dining experience begins with a cruise across the East River — departing from Manhattan’s East 23rd Street Pier/Skyport Marina. Guests are invited to step aboard the Water’s Edge Ferry for a thirty-minute sail across the East River, sure to be a unique and memorable experience. Additionally, a selection of party boats is also available for private cocktail hours, after-hours parties and other private events. Complementing the experience, each month the restaurant will also be host a special wine dinner, which features a hand-picked selection of wines, paired with a carefully-crafted five-course meal.

Water’s Edge Restaurant
The East River at 44th Drive
Long Island City, NY 11101
Tel: (718) 482-0033
www.WatersEdgeNYC.com

1407 Broadway Celebrates American Fashion with a New Look

2009-09-10T12:23:00.000-04:00

1407 Broadway Celebrates American Fashion with a New Look

Positioned in the heart of New York City’s Garment District, 1407 Broadway is an iconic office building within the fashion industry. A fashion fixture for nearly 60 years, 1407 Broadway has been a creative hub for designers to develop the styles we wear each day. Built in 1950, the renowned architect Ely Kahn of Buchman & Kahn, later known as, Kahn & Jacobs, designed the building to meet the needs of the post WWII burgeoning garment industry and now under the present ownership of The Lightstone Group, the building is undergoing a comprehensive renovation. 1407 Broadway, which is over 1.1 million square feet and has almost 300 tenants, remains the home of apparel showrooms and designers such as well known labels like, My Michelle, XOXO, Sag Harbor, Jou Jou and Mudd Jeans.

Celebrating American Fashion and a history in fashion real estate, 1407 Broadway is fêting a new look and undergoing a complete makeover redevelopment with a focus on new mechanical and electrical systems to meet the growing needs of the industry and redesign of the lobby to reflect the spirit and excitement that fashion evokes on life. The renovated lobby will recall the art deco period with new metallic gold and silver ceiling applications, new down lighting, and Alabaster chandeliers. New lobby doors and a thorough marble polishing to restore the brilliant luster of the rich lobby marbles are also included. The glamorous redesign is sure to reflect the beauty and creativity that fashion portrays and will unveil during Fashion week in September.

In addition to the lobby transformation, The Lightstone Group has commissioned Suzanne Couture to sculpt ten busts of great fashion designers which will be displayed in the building’s gallery connecting the 1407 Broadway lobby to the 533 7th Avenue lobby. The designer busts will line the gallery, paying tribute to the designer’s contributions to the world of fashion. The exhibit will portray designers known for reflecting the creativity and integrity of the industry and the artistic redesign will pay homage to the history of fashion as well as inspiration to up and coming designers. 1407 Broadway’s redesign is, in part, a reflection of the ownership’s commitment to the fashion industry and plans to maintain its presence as a famed fashion building for years to come.

1407 Broadway
Gettinger Management LLC
New York City
212-944-6094
www.lightstonegroup.com

The First Annual Ferrari Hamptons Rally

2009-09-05T18:43:00.000-04:00

THE FIRST ANNUAL FERRARI HAMPTONS RALLY

As the ideal way to wave goodbye to a memorable summer season, the First Annual Ferrari Hamptons Rally was the epitome of luxury and distinction— an East End afternoon of exclusive world-renowned vehicles, stylish surroundings, gourmet bites and refreshing cocktails.

The glamorous, red-carpet inaugural event, debuted at one of East Hampton’s finest dining and nightlife venues , Georgica Restaurant & Lounge, with an invitation-only guest-list of jet-setters, from celebrities and socialites, to media and business moguls. Ferrari aficionados had the opportunity to partake in the Hamptons rally, cruising past breathtaking estates, polo fields, vineyards, marinas and the ocean, all of which was preceded by an intimate brunch reception. Following the rally, the drivers and guests enjoyed a late afternoon fête, complete with specialty cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

As founder and co-host of the event, Nathaniel Christian is a Ferrari enthusiast and collector— the New York native credits his passion and fondness for the history and craftsmanship of the vehicles as his inspiration for the event. Nathaniel Christian has become a luxury lifestyle expert, as a real estate entrepreneur and restaurant and nightlife impresario. Co-host Nikki Beach Midtown is located in the vibrant heart of New York City; Nikki Beach Midtown combines classic beach club elegance with Manhattan sophistication. This urban outpost of the world-renowned Nikki Beach brand brings the ultimate beach club concept together with dining, fashion, music and entertainment. Since opening its doors in the heart of Midtown, the exclusive venue has hosted top events and welcomed VIPs and A-list celebrities.

The impressive list of event lifestyle sponsors included Grey Goose Vodka, Monticello Motor Club, Puma, Piper Champagne, Red Bull, Voss Water, Hamptons Magazine, Cavallino Magazine, Peroni, Ferrari Long Island, Miller Motorcars, Algar Ferrari, Wide World of Cars, Ferrari of Central New Jersey and the Ferrari Owners Club Northeast Region.

For more information please see the official Hamptons Ferrari Rally website here.

Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge 2009 at Blue Star Jets Field

2009-08-22T19:17:00.000-04:00

Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge 2009 at Blue Star Jets Field

The often uttered phrase, “summer in the Hamptons” conjures up dozens of delightful pastimes and memories—but one thing is for certain, the Hamptons are just not The Hamptons without the Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge at Blue Star Jets Field.

A staple in the social scene, the Bridgehampton Polo Club is the summer melting pot of celebrities, socialites, media, and jet-setters. There is a reason that the Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge is a favorite on the Hamptons circuit. Unlike any other event, the A-list mingling and socializing takes place against the backdrop of highly-anticipated polo matches. The glamorous tradition has been enjoyed by a long, star-dominated list of past attendees including Anne Hathaway, Beth Ostrosky Stern, Brooke Shields, Debra Messing, Elizabeth Hurley, Jay-Z, Jeremy Piven, Jessica Alba, Mandy Moore, Natalie Portman, Chace Crawford, Kim Cattrall, Jessica Biel, and Christina Applegate, among many others.

This summer’s matches are already underway and the rest of the season promises to offer some of the most exciting in the sport of polo. The sport’s greatest athletes will compete for one of polo’s most treasured prizes. The season commenced on Saturday, July 18th for an unforgettable Opening Day, and continued for six consecutive Saturdays, ending August 22nd.

The coveted event of the summer, the VIP tent played host to an invitation-only cocktail reception for exclusive guests each Saturday afternoon during the tournament. In addition, this year’s season partners, joining efforts to make this year’s Challenge the most spectacular six weeks ever, included: Mercedes-Benz, Piaget, Blue Star Jets, Ralph Lauren, Pop Chips, Nespresso, Ferreti Yachts, Zino Platinum, Dellis Cay, Ameriprise Financial, Covertech, Riviera South Beach Hotel, Stoli, Robert Mondavi, Basil Hayden’s, Crumbs Bakery, Vue Water, Coca-Cola, and Alain Mikli.

The Insider’s Guide on this year’s Mercedes-Benz Polo Challenge 2009 at Blue Star Jets Field.

HOST:
Bridgehampton Polo Club—The tournament host

WHEN:
Six consecutive Saturdays (from Opening Day—July 18, 2009 to the August 22, 2009)

WHERE:
Blue Star Jets Field at Two Trees Farm
849 Hayground Road
Bridgehampton, NY 11932.

COMPETING TEAMS:
CERTIFIED
CINQUE TERRE/HEATHCOTE
EQUEELEUS
W.B.F.
GREAT OAKS
BLACK WATCH

EXCLUSIVE APPAREL RETAILER: Polo Ralph Lauren will return this summer as the exclusive apparel retailer with an onsite shop at the Bridgehampton Polo matches. Evocative of the spirit and heritage of Polo, the shop will feature Ralph Lauren’s Black Watch collection and The World of Polo Fragrance. Spectators visiting the Ralph Lauren shop will have a great view of the polo matches and be able to enter to win a Polo lesson with Black Watch team member Nacho Figueras. www.ralphlauren.com

MEET THE SEASON PARTNERS:
Mercedes-Benz With a name that is synonymous with opulence, the Mercedes-Benz collection encompasses luxury, heritage, and innovation. A key partner, Mercedes-Benz brings the crème de la crème to the tournament. www.mbusa.com

Piaget Piaget’s reputation precedes itself—this Swiss luxury watchmaker and jeweler offers the most exquisite pieces in the world. www.piaget.com

Blue Star Jets
As the world’s largest private aircraft charter broker, Blue Star Jets offers an unparalleled level of personalized service. Founded by President Todd Rome and CEO Ricky Sitomer, their motto states, ANY JET, ANY TIME, ANY PLACE™. Blue Star Jets grants clients freedom from the financial constraints of fractional jet ownership; the savings of paying only for trips taken; and the flexibility to choose the best aircraft according to a trip’s specific budget requirement.
www.bluestarjets.com

Coca-Cola Coca-Cola brings the brand’s mission statement to the tournament: “To refresh the world…To inspire moments of optimism and happiness…To create value and make a difference.” www.thecoca-colacompany.com

Stoli Elit Stolichnaya’s super-luxury vodka, Stoli Elit showcases astonishing purity, elegance, and simplicity. It is born of a contemporary patented freeze-filtration process, replicating the age-old tradition. www.stoli.com

Riva Yachts The world’s major group of luxury boating, Riva’s engineering departments perfectly fuses technology and design in nautical design and performance. Their yacht models are legendary. www.riva-yacht.com

George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom opens New Visitor Center at Touro Synagogue in Newport, RI

2009-08-02T19:13:00.000-04:00

GEORGE WASHINGTON INSTITUTE FOR RELIGIOUS FREEDOM OPENS NEW VISITORS CENTER AT TOURO SYNAGOGUE IN NEWPORT, RI

The George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom celebrated the opening of The Ambassador John L. Loeb Jr. Visitors Center at Touro Synagogue on Sunday, August 2, 2009. Over 1,200 men, women and children attended on opening day.

United States Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a Newport resident, was the first in the door on Sunday morning. He said, “This is not only an enormous contribution to Newport and Rhode Island but also to the entire country. It tells the story of religious freedom with pictures and videos in a very user-friendly way, accessible to all ages.”

Other visitors noted: “… this exhibit will singlehandedly change historic presentation in the city, and will definitely be on the must see list for anyone coming to Newport” and “From the moment you walked through the doors you could sense that it wasn’t going to be an ordinary experience.”

David Brussat, the leading architecture critic in Rhode Island, praised the design of the Loeb Visitors Center at Touro Synagogue in his Providence Journal article of July 30, 2009. “The Loeb Center’s primary aesthetic features all conspire to express their unorthodoxy in ways that help the building fit into its colonial context. Its rusticated Indiana limestone, its arched Palladian fenestration of mahogany, its gently pitched roof all proclaim its embrace of Newport’s architectural community. It is obviously a classical building, yet it is unlike any other. No work of classicism could possibly depart from canon with greater dignity, hence no building could possibly fit onto a historic street with greater distinction.”

The new Visitors Center features interactive, multimedia exhibits exploring the meaning and importance of George Washington’s 1790 Letter to the Hebrew Congregation of Newport. This extraordinary letter is the first and clearest presidential expression of support for American’s constitutional right to the free exercise of religious belief and the separation of church and state.

The Loeb Visitors Center further interprets and celebrates the history and architecture of Touro Synagogue, the oldest functioning synagogue building in the nation. First dedicated in 1763, the synagogue was designed by America’s first architect, Peter Harrison. In 1946, Touro Synagogue became a National Historic Site under the U.S. Parks Service. Then in 2001, the National Trust for Historic Preservation also selected the synagogue as a National Historic Site, making it the sole religious institution amongst only 29 properties to be designated with this honor.

The Loeb Visitors Center is located on the Touro Synagogue campus at the intersection of Touro and Spring Streets, Newport, RI and is open every Sunday-Friday, from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. The center is closed on Saturday. For more information, please visit www.tourosynagogue.org.

The George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom has built and will maintain the Loeb Visitors Center. The Institute’s mission is to promote awareness of the historic roots of religious liberty in America. In addition to the Loeb Visitors Center, the George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom supports educational and scholarship programs for individuals seeking to learn about and discuss the origins and development of American religious liberties.

6th Annual Hamptons Happening Raises $265,000 for the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

2009-07-25T19:09:00.000-04:00

6th Annual Hamptons Happening Raises $265,000 for the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

Star of Jon & Kate Plus 8, Jon Gosselin, attended the 6th Annual Hamptons Happening to Benefit the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) with engaged couple, Michael Lohan and Erin Muller. The threesome attended to show their support for a cause which both Gosselin and Lohan regard as personally important to them.

Honorary Chair Costas Kondylis, with Event Co-Chairs Laurie L. Schaffran and Marion Waxman led the evening, helping to raise $265,000 to benefit the SWCRF. Hosted by Susan and Louis Meisel, the festivities were held at The Sagaponack Sculpture Field with Dr. Samuel Waxman as the keynote speaker.

The SWCRF is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization that focuses on the most promising strategies for developing cures and treatments for many types of cancers. It even offers hope of being able to prevent cancer from developing. SWCRF is at the cutting edge of a revolution with alternatives to the traditional treatments of chemotherapy and radiation, which kill cancer (and healthy) cells. Foundation-supported research includes reprogramming chaotically growing cancer cells to behave normally, understanding cancer stem cells, and mobilizing the immune system. These will lead to precisely targeted treatments or preventatives which will have minimal side effects on the recipients.

In addition, participating restaurants showing their support at the benefit included Annie’s Organic Café, Bobby Van’s, Brandt Beef, Cavaniola’s Gourmet Cheese Shop, Chef Pierrot Signature Catering, DuFour Pastry Kitchens, The Fudge Shoppe, Ichiban Sushi, il laboratoria de gelato, Kneaded Bread, La Masseria, Leo’s Latticini, Magnolia Bakery, Manhattan Chili, Nichol’s, Pure Dark, The Seafood Shop, Shun Lee, Susan Meisel, Town Line BBQ and Tutto Il Giorno. Beverages were sponsored by Palm Bay Imports, Imperia Vodka, Fire Island Beer Company, Hampton Coffee Company and Pellegrino/Acqua Panna.

For more information, please visit www.waxmancancer.org.

Opus Hotel Vancouver - Indulge in the Ultimate Boutique Hotel Experience

2009-07-01T13:22:00.000-04:00

Opus Hotel Vancouver - Indulge in the Ultimate Boutique Hotel Experience

Located in the historic and fashionable Yaletown, steps away from the inner harbor, entertainment, shopping, spas and twenty-five minutes from Vancouver International Airport, is the luxurious Opus Hotel Vancouver.

Uniquely stylish and always fresh, Opus Hotel Vancouver offers guests an unmatched boutique hotel experience. The hotel features ninety-six guestrooms that blend contemporary design with warm vibrant colors. The lavish rooms boast five different lifestyle-inspired décor schemes to suit every taste, ranging from modern and minimalist to artful and eclectic, with comfort and style as the unifying elements. Consistently named by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine as “One of the World’s Best Hotels” from 2005-2008 and “One of the Best 500 Hotels in the World” by Travel + Leisure Magazine from 2006-2008, Opus Hotel Vancouver is the place to stay when visiting Vancouver.

Whether traveling to Vancouver for business or pleasure, Opus Hotel Vancouver offers an expansive list of services and amenities. In addition to standard amenities, luxuries for guests include Frette bathrobes, L’Occitane bath amenities, an in-room oxygen dispenser, morning newspaper, 24-hour room service, heated tile bathroom floors, and overnight shoeshine service. All suites have a wet bar, and the penthouse suites feature wrap-around balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and double-sided fireplaces. The hotel offers a stylish 24-hour business center with two fully-loaded work stations with complimentary high-speed internet, printing and an airport check-in kiosk. The facilities go from corporate to casual—Opus has rooms to accommodate up to 75 guests for a reception or 48 for a dinner.

Swing by Opus Hotel Vancouver, even if it’s just for an evening. Elixir, Opus Hotel’s Bistro, and Opus Bar, which was voted “Vancouver’s Most Popular Nightspot” by Zagat Guide, offer the crème de la crème in dining and nightlife. At Elixir, Executive Chef Don Letendre takes a contemporary approach to classic French cuisine, crafting innovative dishes from the freshest seasonal ingredients. Choose a room to suit your mood: bustling Bistro, airy Garden Room or plush Velvet Room. At Opus Bar, a playful blend of iridescent lighting, designer furniture and shimmer screens set the mood for its sophisticated and style-savvy crowd. Known for its chic, “see-and-be-seen” vibe, Opus Vancouver has attracted many A-listers of Hollywood including, actors Amy Adams, Robert Pattison, John Cusack, Ashton Kutcher & Demi Moore, music artists Janet Jackson, Lil Wayne, Wycleaf Jean, R.E.M., and The Pussycat Dolls, and athletes Tony Parker and “Sugar” Shane Mosley. Opus Bar’s glass-walled restrooms and live video feeds allow you to always keep an eye on the action.

Opus Hotel Vancouver also offers complimentary transportation, available within the downtown area via the hotel’s luxurious 7 Series BMW. Two Opus mountain bikes and two Jorg & Olif city bikes are also available to guests, free of charge. Also offered are deluxe tea service, personal shopping, same-day laundry, in-room spa services and an extensive DVD library. For first time visitors, the hotel’s unique Lifestyle Concierge allows guests to choose from five virtual concierges as their personal guide to the city.
Whether guests are checking in the hotel for business or leisure, or simply enjoying an evening at Elixir or the dazzling Opus Bar— Opus Vancouver is sure to charm and exceed expectations.

Opus Vancouver
322 Davie Street, Vancouver,
British Columbia, Canada V6B 5Z6
Tel: 604-642-6787
Toll free: 1-866-642-6787
Fax: 604-642-6780
Email: info@opushotel.com
www.opushotel.com
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Optyx by Gruen presents the launch of a groundbreaking sports performance eyewear line

2009-06-03T17:15:00.001-04:00

Optyx by Gruen presents the launch of a groundbreaking sports performance eyewear line
June 3, 2009

OPTYX by gruen has once again pushed the eyewear industry to a new level of quality and style with its latest venture: Sports OPTYX by gruen. Granting athletes a competitive edge – sharp, total vision – Sports OPTYX by gruen is born from a collaborative effort between PrescripSun™ by Carl Zeiss and Nike Vision Lens Technology, which has produced state-of-the-art athletic performance frames, available exclusively at OPTYX by gruen.

Nike Max Optics delivers precise vision at all angles, while Nike Max Tints enhance critical visual details, providing the ideal amount of light and the optimal range of color for the sport. In order to guarantee maximum performance, athletes must have a clear view in all directions— the Nike Max Optics’ patented performance design have been crafted to allow the clearest view over the widest angle, granting precise peripheral vision, customized for five major types of sporting activity:

• Nike Max Golf Tint
Grass reflects green and red, while golf balls reflect blue— the colors of these critical details transmit through the lens, reducing eye fatigue and improving visual clarity. Avid golfers, these glasses will assist in lowering your handicap— the contour of the green is easier to read, as the ball ‘pops’ against the grass, sand trap or sky.

• Nike Max Hi-Vis Tint
In low light, significant details such as rocks, shadows and curves are difficult to see. As the human eye is highly sensitive to the color yellow, the lens allows more of it to transmit through the lens. The tint delivers increased contrast on a foggy morning, an overcast afternoon or while the sun is setting— perfect for cyclists.

• Nike Max Speed Tint
A significant development for athletes such as long-distance runners, the tint is designed for endurance, reducing the glare that reflects off asphalt, relaxes eyes and enhances visual clarity.

• Nike Max Polarized
When sunlight hits a flat, reflective surface, glare is generated. The Nike Max Polarized neutralizes the reflective light waves, granting a range of athletes that includes skiers and rowers the ability to see through glare.

• Nike MaxAdapt
The photochromic lens darkens or lightens to adapt, automatically, to the level of ultraviolet light in the environment, from sunrise to sunset, sunny to cloudy.

About OPTYX by gruen: Jon Gruen, founder of OPTYX by gruen, the premium eyewear retailer in New York City, the Hamptons and Greenwich, CT, since 1971 continues to reinvent the eyewear business, with his innovative theory that eyeglasses can and should be one of the client’s most important fashion accessories. OPTYX by gruen is the newest expansion of grueneyes and offers the most high-end collection of designer eyewear. Their highly experienced and trained staff of opticians focuses on giving customers the opportunity to find the perfect style, while providing quality and friendly service. OPTYX by gruen prides themselves in offering clients top optometrists to give them the finest eye examinations. OPTYX by gruen presents the latest retail style by providing the hottest looks in eyewear and the best service in eye care at one location.

The Ravel Hotel Welcomes Summer with the Rooftop Bar & Lounge, Overlooking the New York City Skyline

2009-06-01T22:27:00.000-04:00

The Ravel Hotel Welcomes Summer with the Rooftop Bar & Lounge, Overlooking the New York City Skyline
June 1, 2009

What better way is there to experience New York City than to spend an evening surrounded by the city’s breathtaking skyline? Located atop The Ravel Hotel, Long Island City’s first luxury boutique hotel, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge is preparing to open its chic nightlife hotspot, just in time for the summer 2009 season.

As the weather gets warmer, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers a refreshing alternative to Manhattan nightlife, boasting a 6,000 square-feet outdoor garden terrace, spacious 40-feet-long bar, and live music from the city’s hottest DJs—all against the backdrop of the city’s glittering nighttime skyline. The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge blends a sense of energy and fun with chic city style with sleek minimalistic furnishings, complemented by cheerfully bright plush seating. The space is intimately arranged, allowing guests to feel as though they are indulging in a secret rendezvous outside of Manhattan’s limits and under the serene beauty of the night sky. In addition to being the ideal place to spend a night-on-the-town, the rooftop space is also available for private events and wedding receptions, with catering available through the hotel. Additionally, guests seeking rest and relaxation under the warmth of the summer sun can find solace at the Rooftop Bar & Lounge during the day, reclining on luxurious cabanas and patio furniture.

This June, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge is launching a series of weekly nighttime events throughout the summer. On Monday nights, Reel Mondays, outdoor film screenings will be held. Guests must reserve their spots in advance and will be provided with a blanket to offer cover from summer breezes, a bottle of champagne and a picnic basket filled with delicious treats to complement the movie-watching experience. Rocks & Rolls will feature a professional guest cigar roller every Tuesday Night for patrons to enjoy while sipping their cocktails. Wednesday evenings will be host to Noche En La Terraza (Night on the Terrace) — a Latin-infused salsa/samba night. Overflowing frozen Mojitos and Sangria, coupled with sizzling Latin sounds, will provide guests with a spicy midweek getaway. Rise @ Ravel will set a new standard for New York nightlife on Thursday nights. Partnering with Astoria’s chic Central Bar and Lounge, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge will host a sophisticated, sexy happy hour and late-night fête that is the place to kick off any summer weekend.

Transportation to and from The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge is never a hassle. Having partnered with an exclusive Manhattan car service, The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers guest a shuttle service from anywhere in Manhattan to the Long Island City nightlife venue, and vice versa, for an affordable flat-fee of $25. Conveniently, guests may simply place a call into the hotel’s front desk and the Ravel Hotel staff will coordinate all the details. Valet service is also available for The Ravel Hotel Rooftop Bar & Lounge guests.

The Blue Parrot - The Hamptons' Favourite Local Joint Returns

2009-05-20T12:35:00.000-04:00

The Blue Parrot - The Hamptons' Favourite Local Joint Returns

In 1981 a disheveled crew of surfers, scoundrels and a lone cook turned a hidden corner of an East Hampton parking lot into a meeting place for artists, anglers, bonackers, bankers, weekenders and wayfarers that would one day become The Blue Parrot. The East Hampton eatery that was once described by Forbes Magazine as “the East End Elaine’s” makes a much-anticipated return this summer. Having closed shop in 2006, The Blue Parrot returns to a town eager for its go-to “quirky, laid-back Tex-Mex bar and restaurant.” As the town’s favorite dive bar, meeting place and local joint, The Blue Parrot brings together local residents and summertime visitors, offering a refreshing, casual and pretense-free alternative to New York and East End dining and nightlife. Seating for The Blue Parrot’s bar and restaurant offers guests a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where they have the choice to drink and dine alongside the bar, within the restaurant or atop the outdoor garden patio. Reservations are unnecessary at the Blue Parrot, as seating is based upon a strict first come, first served policy. In any attire, walk into this quirky hole-in-the-wall locale and you are sure to spot just about anyone, as everyone is welcome.

Paying homage to the original East Hampton eatery in its new incarnation, the walls of The Blue Parrot are adorned in the same eclectic fashion, bringing together such decorative details as vintage Mexican postcards and stocks and bonds (albeit from 1800s Mexico). The interior features gritty details, such as rough hewn wood, slowly revolving factory fans, and distressed paint in rich, exuberant colors evocative of Mexico City cantinas. The combination of these elements summon the excitement of a Dia de los Muertos celebration, while maintaining the laid-back, welcoming style that patrons appreciated in the original Blue Parrot. In an ode to the original Blue Parrot, an idea which stemmed from a group of East End surfers, The Blue Parrot will screen classic surfer films including The Endless Summer (1966), Big Wednesday (1978) and Ride the Wild Surf (1964), as well as spaghetti Westerns and the occasional sporting event.

The Blue Parrot will again feature a Tex-Mex and regional Mexican menu of common fare prepared uncommonly well, including quesadillas, burritos and nachos. There will be a strong emphasis on ‘fresh and local’ produce, fish, poultry, cheese and wine. The late-night menu (available after 10 PM) offers Classic Guacamole and Chicken Flautas, sure to satisfy nighttime guests who have few alternatives. The menu revives the original Blue Parrot Margarita, served in a mason jar, as well as sangria, premium and super premium tequilas and Mexican beers.

In keeping with its local-friendly efforts, The Blue Parrot will hire locally and plans to support local charities, such as The Peconic Land Trust and the Pikes Farm Stand Project, and hopes to sponsor a local East Hampton sports team. Additionally, Tuesday evenings at The Blue Parrot will be host to Dirty Bird Tuesdays— a night of drink and food specials for local East Hamptonites. Dirty Bird Tuesdays will also be the only available night for patrons interested in purchasing an official Blue Parrot t-shirt, subject only to local residents (must be verified by a local driver’s license).

The Blue Parrot
33A Main Street
East Hampton, NY 11937
(631) 329-BLUE (2583)
www.blueparroteasthampton.com

Next stop: Fashion Capital of the World - La Mode Revient, Traveling Atelier

2009-05-10T18:00:00.001-04:00

Next stop: Fashion Capital of the World - La Mode Revient, Traveling Atelier

May 10, 2009
Make way for style-on-the-move: La Mode Revient, Traveling Atelier, founded by Sonya Rolin (of Sonya Rolin Atelier) and Irene Zelinksy (of Rolling Stonz Designs) has revolutionized the way women approach fashion and shopping. La Mode Revient—translation: The Fashion Returns—premieres in New York City on May 1st from Noon to 8 PM with an exclusive afternoon of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Hosted at the Vanessa Noel Boutique and featuring the designs of special guest, fashion designer Rubin Singer, the trunk show conveniently brings the latest in chic designs to its clients, allowing them to browse and purchase items while mingling with other trend setters and the designers themselves in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. In such a couture-like setting, clients are given unparalleled personal attention as they are styled from head-to-toe. Additionally, a number of pieces featured at La Mode Revient will be one-of-a-kind designs, while several other items will be available as made-to-order for custom fits. In addition, 10% of all proceeds from the afternoon will be donated in support of the fight against pancreatic cancer.

Co-Founder Sonya Rolin will debut her full, demi-couture collection of evening gowns, coats, and other stylish pieces at La Mode Revient, building on the exciting accessories created by her design company Sonya Rolin Atelier, founded in 2000. Inspired by her family’s couturier in Europe, Sonya brings a sense of Old World artisanship to the 21st Century Renaissance woman with designs that possess a timeless elegance, fitting the style of her exclusive, fashion-savvy international clientele. It’s Zsa Zsa Gabor meets Audrey Hepburn, as Sonya’s designs marry a sense of luxury with chic sophistication.

Irene Zelinsky, founder of Rolling Stonz, is an established jewelry designer who has been creating one-of-a-kind pieces since 2002. Irene finds inspiration in the unique stones and jewels discovered at estate sales and vintage shops. Building upon those pieces, Irene’s designs blend classic design with modern style, resulting in chic charms representing special moments in time.

La Mode Revient, Traveling Atelier brings a sense of refinement and elegance to the world of retail. For recession-conscious shoppers, La Mode Revient offers clients the opportunity to shop privately and discreetly. Watch for La Mode Revient to pass through your area. At each stop, Sonya Rolin and Irene Zelinsky will introduce unique accessory designers, according to location and season.

After New York City, La Mode Revient will visit Los Angeles May 18-19, 2009, Greenwich, CT on May 30, 2009, and Toronto, Canada on June 4, 2009. Look out for additional dates and locations, to be announced.

La Mode Revient, Traveling Atelier
www.sonyarolin.com
www.rollingstonzdesigns.com

grueneyes and OPTYX by gruen Present What’s Hot for Summer 2009

2009-05-01T14:05:00.000-04:00

grueneyes and OPTYX by gruen Present What’s Hot for Summer 2009
May 1, 2009

Where do celebrities go to get the hottest eyewear around? Martin Scorsese, Kate Moss, Lauren Hutton, Carlos Santana, Dustin Hoffman, Diana Ross, Regis Philbin, Madonna, Alec Baldwin, and Elton John—to name a few—depend on grueneyes and OPTYX by gruen in New York for the finest in designer eyewear.

Gear up for sunnier days! For the trend-seekers and fashionistas out there, grueneyes and OPTYX by gruen have picked out what’s hot for this summer 2009 season. For a classy Jackie O-like glamour, they’ve selected a timeless, oversized frame from Chanel’s Collection Perle. For the most rugged of gentlemen, there is the Cartier Santos Sport Platinum, a classic aviator shape with fashion-forward leather and wood detailing—think Top Gun meets the runway. For true glitz n’ glam, grueneyes and OPTYX by gruen offer Oliver People’s Harlot Storm frames, bringing together an iconic silhouette with a bold, modern print.

Need another reason to visit grueneyes and OPTYX by gruen? Celebrate Eye Health Month as grueneyes and OPTYX by gruen are exclusively offering 30% off prescription lenses and complimentary vision screenings from May 11, 2009 to June 10, 2009. Selected frames within their exclusive eyewear collection include, but are not limited to, Cartier, Chanel, Bvlgari, Tom Ford, Persol, Ray Ban, Tag Heuer, Fendi, Emilio Pucci, Michael Kors, Coach, Oliver Peoples, John Varvatos, Vera Wang, Maui Jim, Karl Lagerfeld & Prada.

grueneyes & OPTYX by gruen pride themselves in offering the most fashionable frames and providing comprehensive eye examinations, routine diagnostic eye care and contact lens fittings by professional and personable doctors of optometry. President and CEO, Jon Gruen, has truly redefined the retail optical experience.

grueneyes & OPTYX by gruen are also pleased to announce that they are accepting copayment for the following insurance programs: Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, EyeMed, Health Net, Multiplan, Oxford, United Health Care.

Biba Boutique — The Hamptons Shopaholic’s Dream at a New Location

2009-05-01T10:16:00.000-04:00

Biba Boutique — The Hamptons Shopaholic’s Dream at a New Location
May 1, 2009

Shopping in the Hamptons will never be the same with the new updated Biba Boutique, at a brand new location. The sexy boutique has been a favorite of celebrity shoppers including Paris and Nicky Hilton, Christie Brinkley, Felicity Huffman, Kim Porter, Susan Lucci, and Beth Ostrosky. Owner Barbara Blatt handpicks all of Biba’s lines featuring hot new designers which change weekly. Some of the fab favorites are Sky tops and dresses, Minnie Rose Cashmeres, the hottest brands of designer denim, shoes, and unique, one-of-a-kind items. This summer Biba promises to provide a one-stop shopping experience, with everything the stylish Hampton’s woman needs to achieve the summertime chic look for 2009.

Barbara also specializes in putting together a hand-picked wardrobe for any event and offers a special Biba goody box sent directly to your door.

During the off-season, Barbara takes her fashion show on the road. This upscale, newly renovated boutique will be loading up their stylish clothing, shoes, and accessories, and coming to a location near you. Sip on champagne and wine while you shop at the unique Biba “Wardrobe on Wheels”.

Most recently, Barbara opened a Palm Beach location that is open year round. So for those Hamptonites that miss Biba in the off-season, Palm Beach is only a short plane ride away…

Biba Southampton
40 Hill Street, Southampton, NY 11968 Tel: (631) 377-3647

Biba Palm Beach
11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Dr. Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 Tel: (561) 799-7795

Blue Star Jets: Luxury Travel Revolutionized

2009-04-01T12:29:00.000-04:00

Blue Star Jets: Luxury Travel Revolutionized

As a response to the ever-evolving needs of their clientele, Blue Star Jets, one of the world’s largest private aircraft charter brokers, recently launched the world’s first website for travelers seeking to share the cost of private jet charter— the ShareAJet Exchange.

As the first site of its kind, the ShareAJet Exchange introduces travelers to flying privately together, helping clients connect with other flyers planning trips to similar destinations and arrange to share flights aboard a specific private aircraft. If a trip to the desired destination is not posted, clients may also upload their own travel plans with the aim of matching that with another traveler. Such a public, socially-interactive marketplace allows for clients to plan trips together. The ShareAJet Exchange will prove ideal for travel agents, flight departments, and jet charter companies, as well as corporations seeking to save up to 50% on jet travel.

Blue Star Jets was founded in April 2001 when business partners, Todd Rome and Richard Sitomer, sought to capitalize on the inefficiencies of the private jet marketplace. As their motto states, ANY JET, ANY TIME, ANY PLACE™, Blue Star Jets grants clients freedom from the financial constraints of fractional jet ownership, the savings of paying only for trips taken, and the flexibility to choose the best aircraft according to a trip’s specific budget requirement.

This past fall, as the economy suffered a significant downturn, Blue Star Jets’ clients began inquiring if they could share private aircrafts flights in order to lessen costs— jet-setters are seeking to maintain their luxury lifestyle, while embracing a new economic reality. As these requests grew, it became evident that Blue Star Jets possessed the volume to launch such a program. Holding access to an extensive network of private aviation operators, the Blue Star Jets team of travel specialists negotiates competitive pricing for every flight; in turn, with such savings components in place, the ShareAJet Exchange slashes an already lowered cost, resulting in unprecedented pricing for the private aviation industry.

As Blue Star Jets granted travelers unmatched access to the private aviation industry through its centralization of the charter business, eliminating the need for fractional jet ownership, the ShareAJet Exchange will once again lower the barrier of entry for travelers into the marketplace as it brings down the costs of private aviation by up-to-50%. For example, a private aircraft flight on a Gulfstream jet from New York City to Los Angeles currently retails for as low as $25,000; through the ShareAJet Exchange, that price could be as low as $16,000. ShareAJet Exchange opens the private aviation market to travelers who have previously solely flown commercial, as this Blue Star Jets program helps to lower private aviation costs, so that they rival the price of a first-class commercial aircraft ticket. In addition to being financially savvy, the ShareAJet Exchange also keeps with environmentally-conscious efforts, as carbon emissions are lessened through shared flights.

This summer, Blue Star Jets expects an increase in demands for flights, from Southampton to the South of France, as the travel season hastens. Additionally the popularity of major travel destinations during specific times throughout the year – Los Angeles during award season, England for the Wimbledon Championships and Royal Ascot, Switzerland for Art Basel, France for the Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival, and St. Barts and South Florida during the holiday season – will prove essential for travelers seeking to match itineraries with other flyers.

The operators providing service for Blue Star Jets’ clients must meet the most stringent of standards set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); additionally, Blue Star Jets offers aircraft that have been independently audited for safety, as well as their respective safety reports, to clients.

Blue Star Jets establishes the standard for private aircraft service, as its broker relationship sets it apart from competitors. Blue Star Jets does not manage or operate aircraft on behalf of their clients; however the company assists clientele in finding the best operators for any aircraft. Its staff of aviation specialists solicits competitive bids on each flight request, passing the savings to their clients. Blue Star Jets’ aviation specialists are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

As a subsidiary of Blue Star Jets, ShareAJet Exchange has the capability to review and manage Part 135 Carriers, each meeting the most stringent of standards of the Federal Aviation Administration, while continuing to offer quality services to clients, as ShareAJet Exchange users will also benefit from all Blue Star Jets luxury travel partnerships.

Blue Star Jets offers four different membership cards and programs for clients to take advantage, based on their own personal needs and schedules. The Sky Card Membership program benefits anyone flying at least five times a year, granting Blue Star Jets’ flyers the opportunity to ‘lock-in’ a plane at an attractive price. As a SkyCard holder, members are entitled to receive one-way pricing at time-and-a-half, rather than pay for the aircraft to be returned to its point of departure.

For New Yorkers, Blue Star Jets in 2009 presents The Hamptons Heli-Card and the 25hr Ranger Card. While the East End is known as a luxurious, relaxing summertime getaway, the commute from the city to the Hamptons along the I-495 is anything but – unless traveling with Blue Star Jets. The Hamptons Heli-Card is perfect for those who are looking for their commute to be as stress-free as their weekend. As a response to the ever-evolving needs of their clients, Blue Star Jets has developed a new alternative for regular summertime helicopter users who commute from New York City to the Hamptons – the 25hr Jet Ranger Card. This card allows travelers a number of flights at a great value – travelers are not required to cover the costs of repositioning the helicopters, rather they are only charged for the time spent aboard the aircraft. The 25hr Jet Ranger Card is perfect for New Yorkers, unsure of the number or dates of their upcoming trips out East.

Blue Star Jets proves they have truly thought of everything with the Camp Card. To east the stresses of summer camp preparations for New York families – shopping trips for summer supplies, hours of packing and tearful goodbyes – Blue Star Jets has developed a private aviation program to make the travel between New York City and children’s summer camp sites. The card allows parents and their children to travel comfortably on Greeting Day, Visiting Day, and the camp’s Closing Day with luxuries including Taittinger Champagne for parents and gourmet Peanut Butter & Jelly sandwiches and care packages for campers.

Blue Star Jets
1 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza
885 Second Avenue, 16th Floor
New York, NY 10017
Tel: 212-446-9037
Toll free: (866) JET-TIME/(866) 538-8463
www.bluestarjets.com

Dalyah - Diamonds Directly from the Source

2009-03-26T18:40:00.000-04:00

DALYAH—DIAMONDS DIRECTLY FROM THE SOURCE

Jewelry designer Dalyah Duek-Flaks relocated from South Africa to New York in 2007 to open her namesake jewelry store, Dalyah. The diamond boutique joined the Madison Avenue elite on Thursday March 26th, 2009, as the highly-anticipated store launched with a kick-off soirée. Guests celebrated the opening and admired Dalyah’s exquisite collection while sipping on champagne and indulging in decadent truffles generously provided by Roni-Sue’s Chocolates.

Dalyah is known for her fine jewelry, from sparkling diamonds to extraordinary gem stones. Her chic designs range from traditional to edgy, modern pieces, remaining devoted to the quality of the diamonds and uniqueness of the item. Diamond aficionados can look forward to already beautifully designed pieces as well as the option of customizing a piece of jewelry such as an engagement ring, by selecting a stone and setting under her expert guidance. Dalyah proves that luxury can be experienced by everyone, as designs range from fun fashion pieces starting at $2,000 to couture pieces priced up to $100,000.

Dalyah distinguishes itself from most high-end luxury jewelry retailers by providing customers with unique designs using diamonds directly from parent company Protea Diamonds in Johannesburg—this ensures quality gemstones at great value. Customers are also able to identify the history of the stone they are buying, with the comfort of knowing that the diamonds are conflict-free.

To complete any evening look, Dalyah has created an 18K yellow gold cocktail ring set with assorted Citrine and round brilliant diamonds—gold weight 24.5 Grams, diamond weight 0.58 Carats, priced at a very reasonable $7,500. For a piece that embraces class and simplicity—an 18K white gold neckpiece, with microset round diamonds and black rhodium—gold weight 46.26 Grams, diamond weight 4.40 Carats, priced at $14,500. Visit the store and take part in some guilt-free indulgence by treating yourself to the sensational, yet very affordable Dalyah creations.

Dalyah
625 Madison Ave. (at 58th Street)
New York City
Tel: (212) 575-5511
www.Dalyah.com

New York’s Renaissance Man

2009-03-05T18:33:00.000-05:00

New York’s Renaissance Man

The who’s-who of New York’s social and literary scenes raised their glasses in a toast to former Ambassador John L. Loeb Jr., chairman of the George Washington Institute for Religious Freedom, on the publication of his new book, An American Experience: Adeline Moses Loeb and Her Early American Jewish Ancestors. Lady Liliana Cavendish, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Denise Rich, Richard Turley, Amy Fine Collins, Jonathan and Somers Farkas, Wendy Carduna, Bettina Zilkha, Marjorie Reed Gordon, George Gurley and Hilary Heard, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Yaz Hernandez, Ann Rapp, and Barbara de Portago were in attendance to support the man of the hour, Ambassador Loeb, and his fascinating family memoir.

The book, published by The Sons of the Revolution in the State of New York, has already received a warm reception from reviewers. Stephen Birmingham, author of Our Crowd says it is, “an extraordinary tapestry composed of variously colored threads—of anecdote, of biography, of memoir, of scholarly genealogy, and of rich American history.” With a foreword by Ambassador Loeb (a former ambassador to Denmark, and a grandson of Adeline Moses Loeb and Carl Loeb) followed by a revealing introduction by author and Southern historian Eli N. Evans, the book promises to become a “must-read” in the literary lives of those who treasure family memoirs.

Ambassador Loeb has played a large role in bringing public awareness to American Jewish history, as well as supporting and initiating projects and organizations related to Jewish heritage. In the 1970s, he and the Loeb family funded and helped to organize “The Jewish Community In Early New York 1654-1800,” an exhibit featured at the Fraunces Tavern Museum® in New York City. More recently, Ambassador Loeb initiated and helped fund a similar exhibit at the Museum of the City of New York, called “Tolerance and Identity: Jews in Early New York, 1654-1825.”

Additionally, Ambassador Loeb is a pioneer in the wine world—in his role as president of Sonoma-Loeb Wines. Although other U.S. vineyards have claimed their wineries hold carbon neutral status, Sonoma-Loeb is the first to achieve carbon neutrality in producing bottled wine, meaning that the carbon footprint of the production and delivery of the bottle to the consumer has been totally offset. Ambassador Loeb says,
“Protecting our national resources has always been a top priority and now with everyone claiming to be green and environmentally-friendly, we wanted to be transparent.” First bottled in 1991 early in the California wine revolution, Sonoma-Loeb Private Reserve Chardonnay is modeled after the Montrachet wines from Burgundy but, at about $30 per bottle, available at a fraction of the price of the great French wines. The Private Reserve Chardonnay has earned ratings as high as 93 points from The Wine Spectator magazine and 90 points from wine expert Robert Parker.
Cheers to Ambassador Loeb, who has made in indelible footprint with his work in philanthropy, history, community, and the environment.

The book can be purchased through:
· Sons of the Revolution In the State of New York 212-425-1776 ext. 10 or ext. 14
or email 2administrator@sonsoftherevolution.org
· http://www.syracuseuniversitypress.syr.edu/spring-2009/american-experience.html
· www.amazon.com
· www.barnesandnobel.com
For more information on Sonoma-Loeb Winery and Carbon Solutions America please visit:
www.carbonsolutionsamerica.com. For more information on the George Washington Institute of Religious Freedom, please visit www.gwirf.org.

Boutique Chic in Whistler's Adara Hotel

2009-02-01T16:19:00.001-05:00

Boutique Chic in Whistler's Adara Hotel

February 1, 2009
Whistler, North America’s premier ski resort and home to the 2010 Winter Olympics, boasts the chic and trendy Adara Hotel. The first and only boutique hotel brings an element of urban flair to the woodsy resort town that New Yorkers appreciate. Offering 41 guest rooms and suites, Adara invites guests to unwind amongst intimate and personalized surroundings. Nearly everything found within Adara – with the exception of several signature pieces – has been custom-designed specifically for the hotel. The dramatic color scheme, comprised primarily of reds, browns and whites, invites visitors to sink further into style. Adara’s encompassing contemporary features such as European design-inspired seating pieces, five-foot walk in showers with “rain” shower heads, sheepskin throws and abstract art, adding chic design materials and finishes to the traditional lodge setting. Quirky design elements – such as antlers etched into the mirror in the elevator vestibule – add a further level of one-of-a-kind panache to the property.

Adara Hotel offers a completely new Whistler experience, by integrating modern design elements with the warmth and intimacy of traditional Whistler lodging. The Adara Hotel is truly an urban lodge, appealing to both the metropolitan design connoisseurs and the Whistler ski bunnies.

Adara Hotel
4412 Village Green
Whistler, British Columbia
V0N 1B4 Canada

Midtown West welcomes Seasonal Weinbar restaurant - Contemporary Austrian and German restaurant opens its doors December 2008

2008-12-08T10:22:00.000-05:00

Midtown West welcomes Seasonal Weinbar restaurant - Contemporary Austrian and German restaurant opens its doors December 2008
December 8, 2008

New restaurant, Seäsonal, offering the finest Austrian and German cuisine and wine, is set to open their doors on December 8, 2008. Wolfgang Ban and Eduard Frauneder, the Executive Chefs/Co-Owners of Seäsonal, have combined their award winning culinary skills and created an authentic, upscale weinbar & restaurant that offers New York City diners a fresh perspective on Austrian and German dining with a modern Viennese interpretation of contemporary European cuisine.

“The foundation for modern cuisine should have its roots in a comprehensive understanding of the traditional” says Wolfgang Ban. “Seäsonal will not only bring together the delicacies of Austria and Germany as well as an outstanding wine list, but also a neighborhood in need of a restaurant offering exceptional food, service and atmosphere. Eduard Frauneder, our investors and I are very excited about our new endeavor.”

Seäsonal offers a high-end blend of unique wine and dish options including, Schweinsbauch (Crispy Pork Belly) braised in Riesling served with leeks and caraway foam, Wiener Schnitzel (Breaded Veal cutlet) served with a potato and cucumber salad, Monkfish Medallions served on Szegediner Kraut and Emperor Gulasch (Braised Veal) served in a pepper coulis with lemon zest and sour cream. All menu items at Seäsonal are made with the freshest, locally grown ingredients based on the season, staying true to the restaurant’s name, Seäsonal. In addition, Seäsonal offers several mouth watering desserts that include Austrian Strudel Variation and Chocolate Hazelnut Soufflé with Vanilla Ice Cream.

Each wine listed on the impressive wine list has been hand selected directly by the owners from Austria and Germany specifically to compliment every meal served at Seäsonal. Several indigenous and typical varietals like Riesling, Rivaner, Grüner Veltliner, Blaufränkisch (known as Lemberger in the United States), Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), Zweigelt, Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris), Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc) and Chardonnay are offered at Seäsonal.

The décor of Seäsonal combines elegance with a modern European touch, which sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. The dining room is illuminated by a celestial ceiling with sparkling lights in the shape of branches which lay beneath a film of translucent, sound isolating material. Not only does the ceiling create a glowing canopy over Seäsonal’s signature elliptical wine bar, it also ensures the restaurant’s noise level remains at a comfortable level for guests. The twinkling lit room is surrounded by a blank canvas of white walls, which serves as a revolving exhibition space for contemporary Austrian and German art.

Wolfgang Ban and Eduard Frauneder, merged professional paths after meeting while students at the prestigious, Gastronomie Fachschule, the Culinary Institute of Vienna. It was there Ban and Frauneder shared the same mentor and went on to manage and cook at many of the same high-end restaurants in Europe and the United States. Both Ban and Frauneder worked for Austrian Ambassadors in London and New York and a few years later were invited by the German Government to manage the German House Restaurant, a private delegate’s dining room located within the German Mission to the United Nations. In 2005, the business partners opened the catering company, Elderberry Catering and just a few years later, Ban and Frauneder decided to join forces with a group of investors and partner on their biggest endeavor yet - Seäsonal.

Seäsonal
132 West 58th Street
New York, NY 11002
Tel: (212) 957-5550

Beekman Bar & Books, Setting the standard for sophisticated hospitality

2008-10-15T16:07:00.001-04:00

Beekman Bar & Books, Setting the standard for sophisticated hospitality
October 15, 2008

Beekman Bar And Books is the newest addition to the esteemed whiskey and cigar haven Bar And Books. Originally founded in 1990 in New York City by Raju S. Mirchandani, Bar And Books has set a new standard for cigar bars worldwide by redefining the concept of hospitality, sophistication and comfort. These premier and exclusive cigar bars are the first dedicated cigar bars in New York, offering a variety of over 150 whiskeys from Scotland, America, Ireland, Japan, India and New Zealand and a large menu of hand-made cigars from the Dominican Republic, Honduras and Nicaragua.

Upon entering Beekman Bar And Books, patrons are greeted by a cozy lounge area of leather clad seats and small round tables, all of which are surrounded by a library of antique books. Soft lamps created from the establishment’s signature antique wooden monkeys dress the bar as well as the leather crescent-shaped booths and chairs spread throughout the space. Black and white photos decorate the walls leading to a private cigar room tucked away at the rear of this stylish bar. Bar And Books prides itself on their unique form of entertainment; screening classic James Bond films on flat screen televisions played at each location every night. On Mondays, Bar And Books offers complimentary cigars for the ladies and on Tuesdays all whiskies are specially priced.

The philosophy is to create an inviting ambience with a style of service that is second to none, coupled with an elaborate selection of spirits from whiskies and brandies to classic cocktails, light fare, vintage ports, and fine wines. In addition to Beekman Bar And Books, New York locations include, Hudson Bar And Books and Lexington Bar And Books. Bar And Books has also become an international phenomenon with two Bar And Books locations in Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic.

Ben Scorah, Mixologist and Managing Partner of Bar And Books, began his career as a teenager in nightlife by working at the world renowned Hacienda night club as a bar back in Manchester, England. While attending England’s Leeds University to pursue a major in Business Management, he served as a bartender at the Warehouse Bar and Pu Na Na. After graduation he moved to London where he became a mixologist at Bodeca, a private members bar at the Flemings Rooms in Mayfair. There he was responsible for a cocktail list of over 50 signature drinks served to London’s elite. After almost 3 years of living in London, he ventured to New York City where he pursued a career in bar management and mixology at Barmarche in Soho for two years before becoming the Managing Partner of Bar And Books. Ben Scorah has won awards for his expertise in mixology from Theme Magazine, 42 Below Vodka, Belvedere Vodka, Rhum Clement, Glenmorangie Whisky and Glenfarclas Whisky.

Core Development Group

2008-10-01T13:56:00.000-04:00

Core Development Group

Core Development Group strives to surpass all expectations by transforming New York Real Estate into first-rate residences. They have revolutionized the meaning “living beautifully” by strategically incorporating only the finest finish elements, luxury products and deluxe amenities into each square foot of their developments.

President and CEO, Josh Guberman, thrives on challenges and is well known throughout the industry for undertaking unique projects requiring extraordinary skill. He believes a successful development group must interpret a client’s personality, including what makes them most comfortable and how they function within their home. For Guberman, “Luxury” is not about stainless steel kitchens and imported tile but a detailed approach to creating seamless design and elegance combining old world European craftsmanship with modern technology and style. High design is not about flashy architecture or the trendy style, it is about paying attention to the details and providing value and beauty for clients.

This esteemed firm focuses their efforts in producing compelling projects that reveal prolific energy and exhaustive attention to detail. For the past ten years, Core Development Group has successfully completed more than twenty ground-up buildings in Brooklyn and Manhattan. They pioneered the first Condos in the history of the now “white hot” Greenpoint, Brooklyn area with the specific purpose of creating quality housing at attractive price points. CDG, along with partners Steve Novak and Don Fellner of the Bluestone Group just completed 101 Wyckoff, a 32 Unit Loft project in Bushwick, the first of its kind in this up and coming area.

They are now focusing on New York prime with the launches of three extraordinary projects in the West Village and Upper East Side: Union Square Lofts, Legacy and Lux 74. All three projects combine sleek styling, upscale finish packages and opulent amenities at attractive, below market price points.

Qualified, accomplished, skilled service is the hallmark of Core Development Group.
www.corenewyork.com
www.legacynewyork.com

Lawlor Media Group wins Dan's Papers Accolade

2008-06-26T16:20:00.000-04:00

Influential Dan's Papers readers choice awards has named Lawlor Media Group as best public relations firm in its 2007 Best of the Best competition.

We would like to express our gratitude to the readers whom voted for us as well as to Dan's Papers and their annual readers awards. Thank you ! For more details concerning Dan's papers please visit their website here.

NY Press to Preview Studio Mix

2008-06-26T16:14:00.001-04:00

INVITATION

WHAT:
LESLY ZAMOR, DAVE CASEY AND MATT KNOTT

CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO THE PRESS PREVIEW OF STUDIO MIX

With hundreds of new developments making their mark on the New York skyline, Lesly Zamor, founder of Bloom Flowers, along with Dave Casey and Matt Knott, started Studio Mix, a luxury furniture, lighting and home décor company, to furnish these spaces. Their concept is to combine the fine craftsmanship of global artisans from various cultures and mix them with the clean lines of contemporary design. Studio Mix plans to periodically bring new collections to ensure a diverse selection of products from here and abroad. Such countries like Morocco, Southeast Asia, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Europe and Turkey to name a few. As interior designers, the people of Studio Mix understand the need to provide finishing pieces that will have a visual impact on the design of a space. Their pieces are seamlessly able to style with classic or contemporary interiors.

WHEN: Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Wine & Hors d’oeuvres
7:00 PM – 9:30 PM

WHERE: Studio Mix
127 Madison Avenue
Bet. 30th & 31st Street
New York, NY

RSVP:
LAWLOR MEDIA GROUP
(212) 967-6900
www.lawlormediagroup.com

Fisher House Foundation Tycher Family Foundation Charity Event

2008-06-26T16:12:00.001-04:00

WHO: Fisher House Foundation

&

WHAT: The Tycher Family Foundation Charity Event Benefiting The Fisher House Foundation

The Tycher Family Foundation is dedicated to reaching out to the next generation- to inspire action and giving through raising awareness of opportunities to make an impact on the greater community. The Foundation selects one charity annually and underwrites an event that will raise awareness and provide the charity with 100% of the funds raised.

This year’s beneficiary is the Fisher House Foundation (www.fisherhouse.org). The Fisher House Foundation supports America's military in their time of need. They provide "a home away from home" that enables family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time -- during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury. Fisher House™ Foundation donates "comfort homes," built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. Annually, the Fisher House™ Foundation program serves more than 10,000 families, and has made available nearly 2.5 million days of lodging to family members since the program originated in 1990.

WHEN: Wednesday, April 16, 2008
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm

WHERE: Church Lounge
@ The Tribeca Grand Hotel
2 Avenue of the Americas
New York City

PRESS CONTACT:
LAWLOR MEDIA GROUP
www.lawlormediagroup.com
(212) 967-6900

The 2008 Nature Conservancy Beaches and Bays Gala

2008-06-26T16:08:00.001-04:00

WHO: THE NATURE CONSERVANCY CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO THE

WHAT: BEACHES AND BAYS GALA

The Nature Conservancy’s Eighth Annual Beaches and Bays Gala will be a star-studded affair. The annual event has attracted numerous celebrities and VIPs to the innovative and fun annual fundraising gala. This year the Beaches and Bays Gala will begin with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served on the patio of the Karmely Estate – the historic former home of Robert Lion Gardiner. Guests can enjoy the spacious and lovely grounds before entering the main tent where a sumptuous dinner, catered by Glorious Food, is served. The festivities continue through the night with entertainment and lively dance music from the Paul Richard’s Band of Hank Lane Productions. An after-party for the junior attendees will take place in the courtyard lounge following the main event. The Nature Conservancy is excited to introduce this new aspect of the event, realizing the importance of developing the young leadership supporting the organization’s mission. Since 1951, the Nature Conservancy has protected more than 117 million acres of land and 5,000 miles of river worldwide through pursuing non-confrontational and pragmatic solutions to conservation challenges. The global scope of the organization is one of their unique facets, as their strength is reliant on being one organization with one common goal. However, at a local level, the organization works hand-in-hand with the community to lead Conservancy initiatives across multitudes of regions and landscapes

WHEN: Saturday, June 28, 2008
Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres
6:30 PM to Midnight

WHERE: Private Estate of Libby and Shahab Karmely
127 Main Street
Easthampton, New York

PRESS RSVP:
Lawlor Media Group (www.lawlormediagroup.com)
Tel: (212) 967-6900

2008 Hamptons Golf Classic IV

2008-06-26T15:56:00.001-04:00

M E D I A A L E R T
WHO: HOST David Tyree NY Giants Super Bowl Hero 2008 HONOREE Neal Sroka Douglas Elliman Worldwide Consulting, LLC

WHAT: HAMPTONS GOLF CLASSIC IV

NOTABLE GUESTS: Nobu’s Richie Notar; Celebrity Artist, Adam Port; Builder, Joe Farrell; Page Six’s Richard Johnson; Actress, Stella Keitel and NY Giants Super Bowl Hero, David Tyree.

The Annual Hamptons Golf Classic provides a venue in which Hamptons socialites, executives, and entertainment industry personalities can come together to support an important cause. This year’s Hamptons Golf Classic benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation which continues to enrich the lives of children with life-threatening medical conditions through its wish-granting work. Designed to benefit a great cause and create a fun competition with the spirit of the Hampton’s, this charity event is entering its fourth year and has become one of the highlights of the summer season. Past celebrity guests included Kelsey Grammar, Russell Simmons, Amanda Hearst, Billy Crudup, James Lipton, Fat Joe, Tommy Hilfiger, Michael Strahan, Dhani Jones, Anthony Anderson, Marc Consuelos, Tim Vincent, Andre Harrell, Cristina Greeven Cuomo, Richie Notar, Stephen Baldwin, Jay Fiedler, Samantha Cole, Chace Crawford, Steven Klein, and Jason Binn.

PRINCIPAL SPONSORS: Hamptons Magazine, Bracco Wines, Magaschoni, Zino Platinum Cigars, Douglas Elliman Worldwide Consulting, LLC; Nike Golf, Steiner Sports, Champion Motor Group, Celebrity Service, Stella Artois, A. Harris, and Smartwater.

WHEN: Monday, June 23, 2008

Player Registration 10:00 AM
Continental Breakfast 10:30 AM
Shot Gun Start 11:00 AM
BBQ Lunch 1:00 PM
Dinner & Awards 5:00 PM

WHERE: Hampton Hills Golf & Country Club
1000 Country Road 51
Westhampton, NY 11901

PRESS CONTACT:
Lawlor Media Group
Tel: (212) 967-6900
www.lawlormediagroup.com

Project Cuddle New York 2nd Annual "flip flop casual" event

2008-06-26T15:53:00.001-04:00

WHO: DINA LOHAN OF LIVING LOHAN ON E! AND CARIDEE ENGLISH FORMER WINNER OF AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL

WHAT: PROJECT CUDDLE CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO THE NEW YORK 2ND ANNUAL “FLIP FLOP CASUAL” EVENT

Flip Flop Casual is a charity event benefiting Project Cuddle. Project Cuddle is the result of one woman's crusade to help prevent infants from being abandoned. The foundation offers a safe and legal alternative to baby abandonment. Through Project Cuddles endeavors, over 600 babies have been rescued across the country and into Canada from the fate of abandonment or worse. Project Cuddle’s national spokesperson is popular actor John Stamos (“ER,” “The Beach Boys: An American Family,” “Full House”). Special musical guests The O.C. Beach Band, which is made up of former members of The Beach Boys, will have you dancing the night away, while you bid on great auction items and enjoy a fully catered meal with an open bar.

WHEN: FRIDAY, MAY 30, 2008
7:00 PM TO 11:00 PM

WHERE: VILLAGE CLUB OF SANDS POINT
1 THAYER LANE
PORT WASHINGTON, NEW YORK

PRESS CONTACT:
LAWLOR MEDIA GROUP
(212) 967-6900
WWW.LAWLORMEDIAGROUP.COM

Sneak preview of the 2008 July issue of Social Life Magazine

2008-06-26T15:52:00.001-04:00

WHO: PUBLISHER, JUSTIN MITCHELL AND SOCIAL LIFE MAGAZINE

WHAT: INVITE YOU TO THE SNEAK PREVIEW OF THE 2008 JULY ISSUE

SOCIAL LIFE - “THE LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE”
Social Life Magazine delivers the epitome of luxury from the worlds of fashion, beauty, exclusive society events, weddings and travel. It brings out the opulent elements of society and social adventures of the Hamptons. It captures the spirit and ambience of the area’s most prestigious charity events, polo matches, and galas. From their exclusive feature articles to their innovative portrayals of society events, Social Life keeps their readers in the know of what is elite and luxurious. This summer, Social Life is hosting four events that coincide with their summer issue releases. The exclusive and private guest list will include celebrities, socialites, jet-setters, and taste-makers.

WHEN: Saturday, July 5, 2008
Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres
8:00 PM to 11:00 PM

WHERE: Private Estate
330 Middle Line Highway
Watermill, NY 11976

PRESS RSVP:
Lawlor Media Group (www.lawlormediagroup.com)
Tel: (212) 967-6900

Body & Soul Adventures - A life-changing experience

2008-03-01T16:04:00.002-05:00

Body & Soul Adventures - A life-changing experience
March 2008

Renowned well-being program, Body & Soul Adventures, based in the enchanting rainforests of Brazil, offers clients the opportunity not only to escape from high-stress lifestyles, but also revitalize their health and regain their strength. The power of outdoor adventures coupled with an intense health and fitness program, creates a truly life-altering experience. This magical and challenging sequence of daily activities helps guests to relax and unwind. Owner Michael Mitchell invites guests to partake in this once-in-a-lifetime experience—enjoy rainforest hiking, sea kayaking, yoga, surfing, snorkeling, a complementary daily massage, aromatherapy, evening entertainment and a low calorie diet, all guaranteed to tone bodies and clear minds.

Body & Soul Adventures offers the ultimate solution for those who are looking for a jumpstart to get in shape, need a few days to de-stress or simply want to shed a few pounds. Through intense exercise, adventure and fun, Body & Soul Adventures challenge individuals’ to find and push their personal limits, bringing on the thrill of having accomplished something that was never imagined possible. By embracing and expanding on a philosophy of healthy living, the program provides a life-transforming, active travel and spa experience. It offers a break from the stress of work and career responsibilities, makes clients feel better about themselves, and creates a fresh environment to make new friends.

The program includes a nutritionally balanced diet, contributing to an improved quality of life, consistent weight control, a stable psychological state, better cardiovascular health, increased muscle mass and detox. Body & Soul Adventures has carefully selected the best trails and beaches in Paraty, Brazil as an integral part of this complete experience of exercise, diet, and relaxation in a serene and natural environment. The outcome? A quantum leap into physical and mental well-being.

Three new programs have been added this year—the Yoga Adventure, Dance Adventure and Ilha Grande Extreme. The Yoga Adventure allows clients to deepen their practice of yoga while experiencing the beauty of the Brazilian rainforest and tropical beaches. The retreat program is led by experienced and charismatic guest teachers who refresh guests’ spirits.
Body & Soul Adventures’ Dance Adventure is for those who are looking to learn Brazilian style dancing. This unique adventure combines daily dance lessons of Samba, Forró and Capoeira with yoga, rainforest hiking, and kayaking.

The Ilha Grande Extreme Adventure leads guests on a no-frills 100km adventure around the carefree island paradise. Hike the magnificent island for an unforgettable adventure.
Body & Soul Adventures proves that adventure does not necessarily mean a lack of comfort. Tastefully decorated in beautiful surroundings, this modern, comfortable and relaxing hotel is where guests are pampered and cared for after the day’s grueling activities. Both superior and basic suites are available. The suites are airy and spacious, and Wi-Fi connection is offered in all rooms.

Body & Soul Adventures
145 Rua Prisciliana Soares, Apt. 31
Campinas, CEP 13025-080
Brazil
Tel: 1-877-627-8431
www.bodysouladventures.com

La Cense Montana - A Ranch giving expression to passion

2003-06-15T18:14:00.001-04:00

La Cense Montana - A Ranch giving expression to passion
June 15, 2003

La Cense Montana is an 88,000-acre horse training and working cattle ranch, focused on developing premium recreational Quarter Horses—the most popular breed in the U.S., excelling at sprinting small distances—and operating top-grade Black Angus cattle (originating from Scotland) through the principles of natural ranching. La Cense Montana is the only ranch in the United States exclusively endorsed by horse trainer Pat Parelli to offer recreational Registered Quarter Horses educated under the method of Natural Horsemanship.

Each of the 100 plus head of horses is hand selected from specific breeding farms, where the horses at the ranch are foaled and raised in a natural herd environment. Each horse is chosen based on the highest standards of conformation, disposition and health, and is educated at La Cense, using the methods of Natural Horsemanship—a two-year program. The horses are then sold as recreational horses, offering horse lovers of all levels and experience the chance to enjoy strong, sound and safe horses with positive temperaments, good discipline, and great skills at adjusting to new situations – and to find out what it is to form a true partnership between horse and rider.
La Cense also offers high-quality Black Angus cow-calf pairs of a genetically pure line developed at the ranch over many years.

The ranch gives expression to the passion that owner William Kriegel feels for Quarter Horses and their training. It is a means for sharing his love of horses and his desire to promote a special partnership between horse and rider that he knows is possible.

Located along the western slopes of the Blacktail Mountain range in Southwest Montana, La Cense Montana extends across 122 square miles of varying foothill and mountain terrain. The ranch‘s main facilities, including a 60,000 sq. ft. Indoor arena, two outdoor arenas and multiple barns, sit at an elevation of 5,300 feet, approximately 10 miles south of the small college town of Dillon, Montana – a historic Old-West town, listed by Forbes Magazine as one of “America’s Prettiest Towns.”

La Cense Montana
4600 Carrigan Lane
Dillon, Montana 59725
t: 406-683-8777
www.lacensemontana.com