The Samuel waxman Cancer Research Foundation raises $4.2 Million

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.