25A JULY/AUGUST 2020 by 25A Magazine

METROPOLITANmagazineny.com

JULY/AUGUST 2020

LUXURY MAGAZINE

In The Name of Love

PAUL MAHOS $20.00 USD

CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST 2020 FASHION

16 24 30 34 38 42

MARCELO CALEBRESE ANTONIA SAUTTER THE BOHEMIANS MACEOO V&C FORCE INITIATIVE TY-RON MAYES

COVER

56 PAUL MAHOS & NEW LIFE CRISIS

PROFILE 64 68 70 74 76 78 80 82

THE SAG-AFTRA FOUNDATION RANDY ZELIN DR. LEV KALIKA LISA MAYSONET IIL GLARDINO DI PIPPO PETER SHANKMAN LIZZIE ASHER JAMES SCHULTZ

ENTERTAINMENT 84 THE BOYS

23 Hot Summer Cool Suits

CONTENTS 77

JULY/AUGUST 2020

TASTE 86 70 88 90 92

DA IVO BY GIOVANNI FRACASSI THOMAS J. HENRY BAKE BACK AMERICA UNION SUSHI AND STEAK T-BAR SOUTHAMPTON

94 DEMARCHELIER RESTAURANT

JETSET

96 BAKER HOUSE 1650

ARTFORM

102 CHARLIE BARTON 108 MARTIN Ã&#x2026;LUND 116 OLD GLORY

SOCIAL

118 HAMPTONS FLASHBACK 120 NEW YORK FLASHBACK

Publisher Chase Backer Editor-in-Chief Adam Kluger

LUXURY MAGAZINE

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SPRING/SUMMER SPRING 2020

Assistant Editor Willy Nichter Copy Editor Sean Buttimer Director of Marketing-NYC Jaime Backer Special Projects Editor Norah Bradford Lifestyle Editor Elizabeth Langevin Cover Editor

Gothic Americana

JULIE MINTZ $20.00 USD

Adam Kluger Features Contributor Jadan Horyn Luxury Editor Stephanie L. Howitt Editor at Large | Art, Culture & Fashion Rachel Vancelette Fashion Photographer Matt Licari Profiles Editor Alexandra Appino-Tabone

LUXURY MAGAZINE

Social Editor Clara Morgan

Nutrition Editor MARCH 2020

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Food Editor Andrea Correale

Lindsay Brustein Rosen, M.S., R.D., CDN. Gold Coast Writer Monica Randall Digital Media Director Nancy Molina

Supermodel CAROL ALT $20.00 USD

Contributors Rachel Vancelette, D.D. Rice, Paul Prince, Peter Elston, Johnny Angel, Harry White, Victoria Crosby Contributing Photographers Matt Licari, Rene Bernal, tama66, pixel2013, MichaelGaida, Benno Klandt, Michael Paniccia, Jay Mathews, Filip Shobot, Chris Carroll, Lenny Stucker, Patrick McMullan, MA , Tom Fitzgerald and Pam Deutchman, Sandy Ramirez, Jan Klier, Mitchel Gray, Paul Prince, Kristiina Wilson

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ÂŠ Copyright 2018 by Metropolitan Magazine, All rights reserved. Metropolitan is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as such and unconditionally assigned for publication subject to Metropolitan magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right to edit.

Wealth. It’s complicated. We don’t think your goal in life is to live in constant anxiety over how to preserve and grow your wealth. Yet for many wealthy individuals and families, it’s an all-too common fate. Because with your wealth comes complexity. Perhaps never more so than in today’s market conditions and political realities. At First Long Island Investors, we understand this better than most. For over 35 years, with us in their corner, some of Long Island’s wealthiest individuals and families have been able to better enjoy what all wealthy people are really striving for. A wealth of life. Not of worry. To put First Long Island in your corner, it’s not complicated. Just give us a call or visit our website.

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Courage is not having the strength to go on; it is going on when you don’t have the strength - Theodore Roosevelt We must go on. As a city, as a country as a world. We must find our collective and individual strength to persevere during this global pandemic and to work together as a global community to combat and conquer Covid-19. At Metropolitan Magazine we are trying to do our part to inform and inspire during these difficult days. We will get through this together. From Venice, Italy to Argentina to Orange County, New York we have sought out artists, designers, media personalities, and everyday heroes sharing their efforts to cope with the pandemic and bring a smile to others-like Melissa Subin, an incredible New York mom who created Bake Back America to help provide over 25,000 meals to first responders and those impacted by the pandemic. Metropolitan Magazine has always endeavored to provide cutting edge perspectives, inspirational brands, and thought leaders to our readers. This issue is no different. From the world of fashion, Marcelo Calabrese shares his new campaign for 2020, while celebrity stylist Ty-Ron Mayes, who created the incredible looks for Supermodel Carol Alt in a recent issue of Metropolitan, shares his perspective on how the black lives matter movement and COVID-19 are impacting the fashion industry. From the world of art, contributing editor extraordinaire Rachel Vancelette puts all the puzzle pieces together and makes sure the work has been done in keeping us all up to date on trends in art and jewelry. In music, Paul Mahos who has a huge fanbase, including TV host Michael Strahan, explains how Elvis and the Beatles inspired his dynamic on-stage persona. Speaking of larger than life characters, I just got to hang out with Paul Teutul Sr. The popular star of American Chopper. What a terrific guy! Check out our social media platform and the next issue, where Paul Sr. will share BTS video and the secrets to creating amazing motorcycles and discuss the challenges of being a good dad. Paul Sr.’s relationship with his sons has always been one of the most fascinating aspects of his TV show. Being a parent during these difficult times is not easy for anybody. My daughters make it easy for me. They are the reason my sun rises every morning. They are my sun moon and stars. Enjoy! Be safe and watch out for each other. Chase Backer Publisher, Metropolitan/25A

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EDITOR’S NOTE

It is not flesh and blood, but heart which makes us fathers and sons - Johann Friedrich Von Schiller Here we are, all of us trying to navigate through this difficult time. Sometimes I find myself praying and sometimes I think about my father who was a hero to me. He left us 25 years ago but his intelligence and sense of humor continue to provide comfort during these dark days. He would have loved my son. Now 13 years old. My dad taught me how to throw a baseball and so much more. We would love to watch the Yankees together and talk a little bit too. Throwing a ball with my son, talking, joking, being together- is always the best thing ever. Herb Subin is a dear friend I have known for over 30 years who is one of New York City’s heroes. Herb followed in his father’s legendary footsteps as one of New York City’s most respected personal injury attorneys. Over the years Herb and his amazing legal team have successfully gone to bat again and again against bureaucracy, and institutions and organizations that would trample over the rights of all New Yorkers. So, it was no surprise to discover that Herb’s wife Melissa and his daughter Brianna would collaborate to create a Covid-19 related charity called Bake Back America that has now helped tens of thousands of New Yorkers get free meals, products, and services. So honored to spotlight their heroic works in this issue. Paul Mahos is a musician that has drawn comparisons to Bono for his electric stage presence, but perhaps the most exciting part of Paul’s music is the experimental nature by which he creates musical mashups to delight his fans. Paul’s humility and good-guy nature is only matched by his creativity and talent. Paul Teutul, Sr., the popular star of American Chopper looks as tough as a Hell’s Angel, but for anyone who has watched his show about fabricating motorcycles in his Orange County Chopper garage in upstate New York, they know that what defines the show and the man is Paul Sr’s oft-times rocky relationships with his sons. Few television shows have ever explored this father-son dynamic with such honesty and insight. Yes, it is just a show about creating really cool bikes but it is also much more than that. Our publisher Chase Backer went be behind the scenes at OCC to shoot videos of the bikes and people that have made American Chopper so popular. Check out our social media platform for a sneak preview of Chase and Paul Sr,’s amazing journey! The topic of fathers and sons is front and center. I don’t know if there is a way for me to ever adequately express how much I loved my father and how much I love my son. Sometimes words don’t do the job. I still tell him how much I love him whenever I can. As parents, we can never say it enough. Enjoy this new issue of Metropolitan. Stay healthy. Be safe. Be smart. Be kind. Wear a mask and stay New York Strong. Thanks,

Adam Kluger Editor in Chief, Metropolitan Magazine/25A

“Village Cool” By Peter Ekern

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MARCELO CALABRESE FOTOGRAFÍA Y RETOQUE: JHONATAN LEAL @JTANLEALPH MODELO: ESTEFANIA GARCÍA @ESTEFANIAGARCIAO22 AGENCIA: @IAMODELS DISEÑADOR: MARCELO CALABRESE @MARCELO_CALABRESE STYLING: GABRIELA RODRÍGUEZ @SOYGABBYR

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BLUE FILTER : VERY TALL BLUE PANTS / FLOWERS SILK MASK & HAND BEADED COURIER BAG IN LEATHER.

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“COURIER“ HAND BEADED LEATHER BAG IN BLACK.

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PINK FILTER : SILVER OVERSIZED JACKET EMBROIDERED IN BLACK AND PINK / PINK SCREEN SUNGLASSES & BLACK PATENT LEATHER SHOULDER BAG W LOGO

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COURIER “X” BLACK LEATHER BAG

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GOLD FILTER : GREEN DRESS W HAND EMBROIDERED NECK IN GOLD / GOLDED SCREEN SUNGLASSES & “ LEX” CLUTCH IN WHITE PATENT LEATHER

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COURIER BAG : TOTALLY HAND EMBROIDERED W CRISTALS & SEQUINS

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Antonia Sautter FASHION, LUXURY EVENTS & SHOW DESIGN IN VENICE ITALY

BY SEHRA

was born, live and work in Venice, where I decided to stay because it is an exceptional city for history and beauty, unique in the world, source of continuous inspiration.

A city that keeps reinventing itself starting from its traditions and habits. I am a tenacious defender of the made in Venice. Venice artisans with their work create beauty and export excellence in the world. I began in 1982 in my small shop behind Saint marks square selling my creations. Today, in my 2 boutiques I sell my own brand fashions collections: bags, shoes, vestments, kimonos, house accessories... Velvets are my biggest passion: a caress to the touch. Silks, hand painted velvets with the natural tint procedure, and printed, always by hand, with carved blocks. That remind of the oriental craftmanship beloved to Mariano Fortuny. Everything happens in my print house in the center of Venice. What I design is entirely handmade in Venice, with love. Beauty itself is flawed and i love the imperfection of the handmade. My love for costumes has been there since I was only a kid, learning the art of tailoring from my mother Who was used to make the costumes for my carnival exhibitions. It all started in the loft of my house in Saint Tomà, that today is my tailor’s shop. Costumes, ball gowns wedding dresses, it is amazing to work with my dressmaker’s, sketching, choosing fabrics, decorations, embroideries. To put on costume is pure magic. That juvenile game has

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shaped my destiny. Each event is an artisanal masterpiece. I live every occasion as a conductor: creating, designin choreographies, costumes. I take care of the show direction, the scenes, sonography, floral decorations, lights, sounds, music, exhibitions: the result of a work of synergy. Because it is true that perfection is not a detail, but details make perfection. Unique, common denominator is to fulfil a dream. I definitely fulfilled mine. Il Ballo del Doge. The journey began in 1994 with Terry Jones, from the Monty Python, entering my small shop, and a young and reckless me accepted the challenge. Costumes,

historical reproductions, sonography, settings, the 4th crusade was ready for the show. And so, Il Ballo del Doge was born. It is considered the most exclusive masquerade ball in the word. To me, it is a life mission. Everything takes place in one night. I took my bet against time, only 12 hours to set up a one night-dream. 700 costumes for my guests, my artists and all my team. 30 professionals dedicated to the stagecraft, 20 people dedicated to flower decorations, 50 seamstresses, 80 dressers, 60 waiters, two chefs, 10 personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s working in the kitchen, 3 stage managers, 120 artists, for choreographers, 12 photographers, 5 videomakers, 30 lightning and sound designers, makeup artists, hairdressers, hostesses, barman, wardrobe personnel, runners and porters. An entire

family rotating around Il Ballo del Doge. I am not sure if it has been my creativity to feed my dreams or the other way round. Matter of fact, that the playful game off a young girl is what defined my destiny: it is from there that my adventure began. Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life. To work in Venice, you really need to love her deeply. ANTONIA SAUTTER CREATIONS & EVENTS San Marco 1286 - 30124 Venezia ITALY Phone: +39 041 2413802 / +39 041 5224426 antoniasautter.it myreveriegarden.com

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The Bohemians B Y L U C I A N A PA M PA L O N E

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MACEOO Menswear tyle inside or outside is a state of mind with “mentality” collection Premier menswear brand MACEOO is back from lockdown with its “Mentality” Collection designed with inimitable flair for socially-distanced outdoor style or even stay-at-home debonair freelancers. Among the first fashion brands to respond to the pandemic by creating signature face masks, MACEOO has finally brought back the precise fits and cuts of its line of dress shirts, jackets, V-neck Ts, polo shirts, underwear, socks, swimwear, and athleisure garments. According to designer Mehdi Raad, “The latest collection is a celebration of survival with grace, spirit and intelligence in the face of worldwide turmoil.” Featuring the brand’s signature juxtapositions of eye-catching color and print contrasts, high-end details, and versatility in being mixed and matched with contemporary wardrobes, MACEOO’s latest pieces boast a Parisian sophistication blended with carefree West Coast lifestyles. Since its inception, the brand has made an impact in menswear for its ultra-soft performance shirts with their 4-way stretch, moisture wicking, and odor resistant capabilities. Their precise proportions and fit were mathematically engineered to perfection and have been acclaimed to being as close to custom tailored garments as possible in ready to wear. Online shoppers are also assured in the safety of their purchases as the brand is practicing the strictest safeguards recommended by the CDC and state guidelines. Retail price points are: Dress shirts $138$168, Tech Shirts $158-$168, Blazers $448, Athleisure $78-$148, Jackets $598-$998, Polo Shirts $88-$98, V Necks $68-98, Shoes $198-$228, Socks $19, Underwear $25, and Swim $98. ABOUT Founded by Mehdi Raad in 2010, MACEOO is the first fashion house to mathematically engineer precise design. Its fit and comfort are achieved through an innovative algebraic algorithm based upon data from 30 million North American men. The extrapolated data ensures that all MACEOO pieces fit like custom-tailored garments. Designed in Paris, made with innovative Italian fabrics, and using the strongest thread in the world, made in Germany, this menswear line is inspired by the idyllic West Coast YOLO lifestyle in design and aesthetic. MACEOO currently has stores in Tampa, Miami, and San Diego with the entire collection available online at MACEOO.com

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V&C FORCE INITIATIVE CREATIVE SOLIDARITY BY G HISLAINE HORENBACH

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he terrible global Covid-19 pandemic has made us realize that solidarity is essential for our survival. This state of affairs is not limited to a country or a continent, and we are today living in a new global reality. Funds are desperately needed for those in communities who have been impacted by COVID-19 pandemic. These include friends, creatives in the art and design communities, medical workers and COVID-19 first responders and many more who day-in and day-out are fighting this global pandemic. V&C have joined forces for a joint storytelling initiative between VANCELETTE SIGNATURE® and CHÉRUBINE ® brands to raise both awareness and needed funds for those in communities who have been impacted by the horrific COVID-19 pandemic.

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Two renowned jewelry designers, Rachel Vancelette and Sabine Debrus immediately understood the importance of taking action and decided to combine their talents to create V&C Force, a site for online sales of prestigious jewelry where a portion of the sales would be donated to communities affected by Covid-19. V&C Force offers a sophisticated selection of pieces from the collections of the VANCELETTE SIGNATURE® brand created by Rachel and the CHÉRUBINE® brand created by Sabine. Reflecting on their respective journeys, these two artistic young globetrotters were meant to meet in Spain after New York’s 9/11 disaster. “We are all in 2020 faced with new challenges, so the idea of repurposing the two individual brands and presenting a selection of 40 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

unique pieces of jewelry seemed timely in our present world.” THE JOURNEY - COLLABORATION The most beautiful ideas and the most beautiful achievements often arise from the meeting of exceptional people. After having obtained her Master’s Degree in Art, Art Business and Fine Art, Rachel Vancelette founded “Vancelette Global Art Acquisitions Corp”, a multi-faceted contemporary artistic creation agency. She began contributing articles to Vogue Italia in 2010 and since then has written articles as an art and fashion specialist publishing articles in numerous magazines. During Rachel’s career she has also held the positions of General

Manager of fordPROJECT, NYC, curatormanager of the Domus Collection, Beijing. In New York, she was director of Barbara Gladstone’s 21st Street Gallery and the principal director of Yvon Lambert, New York. Her Global Corporation provides private art consulting services for the sale, acquisition, fine art evaluation and conservation management to major art collectors, artists and artistic advisers, as well as art foundations and museums in Asia, Europe, South America and the United States. After a terrible hand injury in 2011 and 5 unsuccessful surgeries, she was determined to assist others and turning a negative into a positive created a magnificent collection in gold and precious stones with an adaptive

health and rehabilitation design – the birth of VANCELETTE SIGNATURE®. In Europe and more specifically in Belgium, top jewelry designer Sabine Debrus had finished her studies in Business Administration. With her diploma in hand, she moved to Spain and then to the US, where she collaborated with major jewelry brands developing her refined jewelry collection. After many travels, in 2007, she created the CHÉRUBINE ® collection accompanied by a wonderful book of the same name. The tale tells the story of a hen whose eggs do not give birth to chicks. This “fable” alludes to the problem difficult and painful for a woman to be faced with ovarian failure. During her many travels Sabine

crossed paths with brilliant goldsmith S.Van Giel, who is from a prestigious family located in the Antwerp diamond district established in 1956. Skillfully, Sabine brilliantly crafts unique pieces by hand, all made with the most beautiful stones she personally hand selects. All CHÉRUBINE ® pieces are exclusive and reveal themselves like miniature sculptures. The workshop and the flagship store are located in Antwerp, Belgium home of the most refined and finest jewelry craftsmen. Everything offered on the site can be adjusted according to individual customer requests, bespoke. Supported in this venture by New York’s Metropolitan Magazine and focusing on a global outreach, V&C Force plans to present a story with

each unique piece of jewelry, and intends to collaborate with other creatives, friends and cities to make a change. “Funds will be donated and distributed to charities who continue to support our communities during a time of world crisis. It is critical to continue to spread hope and love in the difficult days ahead. We also feel it is important to highlight the personal stories of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes during these unique times.” Ghislaine Horenbach is a contributor to fashion and design magazines in Belgium including Elle and many more. curatingaroundtheworld.com July/August 2020 | 41

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SUPER STYLIST

Ty-Ron Mayes COVID-19 AND WHAT “BLACK LIVES MATTER” MEANS IN FASHION BY NANCY MOLINA How has The Covid-19 Pandemic and the “Black Lives Matter” Movement impacted the fashion industry? Ty-Ron Mayes: During this Pandemic, COVID-19 was and is completely devastating for everyone, especially the fashion industry with sales already declining. In the nineties, President Clinton signed the NAFTA Act which created a climate of outsourcing and clothing manufacturing made a mass exodus out of the U.S. with big business looking towards China for production. After 9/11 and the first of three economic crashes of the new century, the luxury industry took a major hit. As of 2001 and on, we now have an entire generation of young consumers who devalue clothes and who do not invest in luxurious clothing, expensive fabrics and splurging on extravagant pieces. They traded high-end luxurious fashion for inexpensive clothing with high turnover and millennials trained themselves to not buy any clothing unless they are on sale. So, department stores began to slash prices upon delivery or the items will not sell. The advent of the euro drove up the prices of imported European clothing making them way more expensive then they were in the past. Then came fast fashion which supplied America’s demand

for stylishly cheap clothing. But, remember, America is not producing clothing which has left the U.S. apparel industry destroyed. We are only consumers with little to no production. There was an HBO documentary called, “Schmatta: Rags to Riches to Rags”, that showed how the US went from 90% clothing productions to 5%. Simultaneously, the publishing industry including newspapers and magazines were devastated with weak newsstand sales, low subscriptions and disinterest in the glossy fake world of fashion. Sales also suffered due to the way we receive and share via smartphones and Google. People get their information and fashion cues online. And now with COVID threatening how we produce, present and sell fashion to the masses designers, magazines, models, photographers, editors and make-up artists are all suffering. COVID-19 has changed everything. I have been a Celebrity Stylist for 25 years and in my experience photo shoots require a group of artists to work together in close proximity. If you take a headcount on a fashion set there are easily 10-15 people on a shoot. When the government mandated that we could not

gather, we stopped working immediately. Now, we are expected to work dressed as surgeons complete with shields, gloves and masks. The transition is going to be hot, uncomfortable and cumbersome. We also lost four months of work during COVID-19 and unemployment and the Pandemic money only recovered a fraction of what we normally make. The government failed to provide enough money for people like myself who are independent contractors and single sole proprietors of a business. We were often not eligible for the loans they advertised on television. On the back end, the Small Business Administration denied many of us loans even though we are running legal businesses. In other words, artists who are incorporated or have an LLC were denied. In the fashion industry, post COVID-19 fashion week as we once knew it to be has been cancelled. It has been reduced to three days with some designers opting for a virtual format; with some choosing to create computerized avatars wearing scanned, digital clothing. Unfortunately, from what I am seeing, they look like 90’s video games. Now, the fashion industry and Hollywood are scrambling to

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figure out what to do because our insurance policies will not cover us if we are stricken with COVID on the set. The fashion industry and all of entertainment are left at a standstill with no immediate plan for the future.

Madison Avenue and they all work together to create a climate in which the narration of an entire group of people can be dictated to the public that is rooted in global ignorance, fear and misrepresentation.

As it pertains to “Black Lives Matters”... well, what can I say. This is a very touchy and complicated subject. As it pertains to how it affects the fashion industry, it is daunting. So what I am about to discuss is an overall perspective about racism in the fashion industry but not true for everyone and everything. I am pausing to explain why this is complicated because I need to separate my own personal experience from the general approach of the industry. The reason is that I have been given opportunities that others have not been afforded. I have been able to enjoy a career within fashion that I am grateful for and have wonderful relationships with Caucasian editors and clients. I have been lucky to be one of the chosen few selected to rise and contribute in significant ways.

So it has been painful to have watched many of our American editors be replaced with some British editors who came to this country with not only racism, but elitism and classism. Once they were in place, there was a new agenda where many Black American models were removed off of the pages of their high-end magazines and replaced with refugees and any Black woman in the Afro diaspora who was not a natural born American citizen. This is where racism gets nuanced and complicated as the change resulted in their ideals of Black women which was not American Black women. The result was catastrophic because all of a sudden Black American models that we knew and loved were gone from the magazine pages. In fact, one famous editor claimed that their wasn’t any Black woman suitable to put on the cover of her magazine until Naomi Campbell, who is amazing but British and it negated all the other Black American models who came before and after her.

However, in spite of this, it is still true that racism is infused in every nook and cranny, not only in America but, throughout the world. Black people, especially natural born Black Americans, have often found it quite difficult working and living in a climate where Blacks have been devalued. It feels that racism has become institutionalized and prevalent in a type of “corporatocracy” which we call The United States of America, with some Caucasian Americans being so tone deaf towards Blacks being subjected to police brutality and senseless murders, as well as, the disenfranchisement of Black America, that it was so important to come up with a movement that would ignite change. In my industry. the “Black Lives Matter” movement was and is necessary so that we can have not only a dialogue but, a call to action. It is very important that racism in all of its forms are identified, acknowledged and eradicated. The look of racism has changed throughout the years. The old face or image of racism, which was marching with white hoods, burning crosses and using nooses, have been replaced with new millennial racist flags, racists covertly taking on power positions in law enforcement, our court system, multimedia and executive advertisement positions on

Magazines are supposed to be aspirational and inspirational forms of communication, in which, the masses not only receive information, get trends and sell products, but also inspire the public, show people at their best and celebrate individuals who have reached the pinnacle of their careers. Black Americans are beautiful, creative, innovative, aspirational and highly inspirational to everyone. Our contributions in America have benefited the entire world. But, a few strategically placed individuals have positioned themselves, in which they control how we are viewed and broadcast us in a negative light and refuse to document our extraordinary achievements. Unfortunately, there are some in the magazine world who are guilty too. Throughout magazine history, we watched entertainers’ careers celebrated with beautiful Vogue covers such as Cher, Liza Minnelli, Britney Spears, Lady Gaga and so many more. Yet, there have been some editors who have barred Black American women and men from being celebrated at the peak of their careers with only a few exceptions. Some of our best were systematically overlooked. Black American women such as Janet Jackson,

Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Tyra Banks and so many more were never celebrated in the same manner as their Caucasian counterparts. Some editors deflected the outcry for more Black American presence on the newsstands by saying that Blacks don’t sell magazines. Not true! Whitney Houston sold more records than Britney Spears. She should of had more prestigious covers to document her achievements. And the same can be said for Janet Jackson. And before you go there... yes there are exceptions but there should have been more. So, in my long-winded response I go back to your original question. How has the “Black Lives Matter” Movement impacted the fashion industry? Well, the murder of George Floyd has shaken up the entire world in a way that people can no longer ignore, overlook or rationalize the dehumanization and senseless murder of Black Americans. By shaking up the world, it has shaken up the fashion industry and thankfully there have been courageous Caucasian Americans realizing that there needs to be a change. In fact, the video of his murder has forced a reckoning about racism that makes this moment in time feel different. It feels that Caucasian Americans are now realizing the scope of racism and are finally understanding that they have been a part of the problem and therefore, they finally are marching for significant change with Black Americans as they now know that they have to fix the problem. So now it no longer it is acceptable that any part of the fashion industry use their ideas of black culture in ways that are offensive to Black Americans. Some fashion companies and luxury brands have been designing, manufacturing and selling racist memorabilia through clothing and accessories. They have been sold in boutiques and stores around the world with the industry deeming them to be cool and highly profitable. There are many examples. A Swedish multinational clothing company designed a sweatshirt that was modeled by a little Black American boy. The sweatshirt sported in bold letters, “Best Little Monkey In The Jungle!” A British luxury fashion house sent models down the runway wearing hoodies with nooses. An Italian high-end luxury brand designed and

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manufactured a black face turtleneck. Another top Italian brand designed black face, Sambo figurines and monkey keychains with exaggerated African features that were displayed in the windows and all around their Soho boutique. In 2013, celebrity designers from high profile luxury brands attended a slave themed party called “African Disco” in black face? Twin designers attended dressed as drag queen models and posed with a Caucasian man in black face and slave chains hanging from his neck. The mere fact that these designers took selfies and posted them online show that they were trivializing and condoning slavery. Symbols of hate should not be a commodity or made as fashion trends in the U.S. or anywhere in the world. Designers selling hate wardrobing and partying in black face with slaves as an accessory aides in the desensitization of America when it comes to Black lives. So it is time for any fashion brand to stop using the Black image in any type of stereotypical caricatures. It must end.

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One more thing, now we are also experiencing the “All Lives Matter” movement. This movement seems innocent but, it is divisive. It complicates #BLM because it is spearheaded by factions that use “Subtle Racist” tactics that create a false veneer of inclusion. What most people fail to realize is that “Black Lives Matter” was designed to force awareness on a global scale and to directly target those who believe that Black lives do not matter. “Black Lives Matter” does not exclude all other lives. All lives do matter. But, “Black Lives Matter” was designed to target Presidents, government officials, the court system and the police that we pay to patrol our streets and force them to realize that the lives of Black Americans do matter. The “All Lives Matter” movement was designed to distract the general public and diluted the message of BLM. As of today, “All Lives Matter” apparel were removed from the shelves of Walmart because they realized they were aiding in minimizing the true message. Fashion is powerful. Logo t-shirts are powerful. This moment in time is powerful. This awareness by a major corporation is significant in that it is a sign of positive change for an important movement. It is a beginning of a new journey of inclusion and opportunity. It is clear that this is a special moment in time and that the fashion industry can and must continue to help fuel the “Black Lives Matter” movement with positive and supportive actions in every area from wardrobe to magazines to advertising and beyond. In these unprecedented times, how important 46 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

is celebrity and fashion to inspire and help keep our spirits up? Ty-Ron Mayes: We are experiencing the Greatest Depression in American history. Along with the COVID-19 Pandemic, spirits are at an all time low. People are afraid and angry. Our way of life as we knew it has changed. And during harrowing times it has always been the responsibility of the celebrity to keep people’s spirits high. It is our duty to inspire, bring hope and encourage the masses. On my Instagram account, I chose to not repost police brutality; instead I chose to use my account to teach the world about all of the achievements and inventions that Black Americans have contributed to not only the United States of America, but the entire world. Our true history has never been added to history books. White America is completely ignorant to the achievements of Black America. There is more to the Black American contribution than slavery, peanut butter and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Our contributions are not celebrated. Go to my Instagram account @stylisttyronmayes and you will discover that we invented dry cleaning, the traffic light, the mailbox and so much more. During this time, I chose to use my status and platform to teach anyone who would hear my voice or read my thoughts. I started a hashtag and movement that, “Black History is American History!” I am using fashion to get the message out. I will be launching the t-shirt on my Amazon account (Paper Faces T-Shirts), so you can rock a cool, smart, inspirational t-shirt and display your awareness. I work with a charity called The Orchid Foundation that helps to serve and educate underserved Black girls in the city with finishing high school, college prep and inspiring career days in which my young ladies meet industry tycoons like Daymond John. I will donate some of the proceeds to the foundation so I hope anyone who reads this will support me and buy several t-shirts. Please share some stories of your favorite celebrity shoots (and any high-Res photos) - any fun anecdotes etc. Ty-Ron Mayes: I’ve had so many celebrity shoots over the past two and a half decades. Looking back, I loved my shoot with Oprah Winfrey. It was the 90’s... I was super young and she was one of the First celebrities I worked with. At the time I was the protégé of Francesco Scavullo. He discovered me on the set while styling a cover of Amica Magazine. Working with Papa Scavullo (I would always say that he was my Italian father.) He literally stole me from the set, invited me to

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his townhouse where I met the magnificent Sean Byrnes (Editor of Cosmopolitan) and they said, “we have tons of work for you”. The next thing I knew, I was styling my first cover with Oprah, then I was styling a young Tyra Banks for Amica, Elle MacPherson for L’Officiel, Bridget Hall for American Cosmopolitan and so much more. These were some of the biggest covers in the world. Matter of fact, my cover with Oprah did really well. She loved me and Scavullo told me she requested to be photographed with her. I was shocked. So, I stood next to her and just before Francesco took the picture, Oprah grabbed me and pulled me in for a huge hug! I was shocked and happy at the same time. I had no idea that I would be one of the first people to receive, “The Oprah Effect.” My career literally took off. That season, Francesco Scavullo took me to New York Fashion Week and placed me at the front row of all of the fashion shows. I love the project I have been working on with my friend Maria Borges. I conceptualized this new sexy imagery of the Modern African woman. Most magazines depict Africans as cold sculptures that they hang clothes on. Often they are frowning or void of feelings. We have been documenting Afro sensuality. It’s totally fresh! But, my all time favorite shoots were with model turned mogul Tyra Banks. We did quite a few covers and special project shoots at the beginning of her career. Somewhere around 2010 she requested my number to work on her Tyra Magazine. Our schedules didn’t work but, a few years later I reached out to her because it was the 10th Anniversary of America’s Next Top Model and I noticed that no magazines were celebrating my girl. This was a huge milestone and Tyra was not on any covers. I was editing a few magazines at the time and I told her that I wanted to partner up with her and create this project. She said yes and Project Tyra was born. Tyra and I partnered with my friend, photographer Udo Spreitzenbarth and together with Emmy Award Winning make-up artist Valente Frazier and hair stylist Sher Rae, we formed Team Tyra. Together we were like The Super Friends! I started campaigning to all of the magazines I worked with both past and present. In one year I styled, produced, interviewed and edited 18 cover stories featuring Tyra Banks. This included an unprecedented 11 covers of Cosmopolitan Magazine that ran worldwide. Week after week, one cover dropped after another. Before her last Sports Illustrated

cover, I was responsible for bringing back Tyra Banks out of retirement and back to the newsstands around the world. At that point, I wanted to do something different so, I proposed that we shoot a series of high concept pictures for a photo exhibit. We worked on the images for one full year. It became Tyra 15, in which, we photographed Banks as 15 different Supermodels. The wow factor was there was absolutely no retouching at all. The images were created with only make-up, wigs, styling, lighting and photography. We transformed Tyra into Kate Moss, Linda Evangelista, Iman, Grace Jones and when Cindy Crawford saw her Tyra portrait, she gave us the stamp of approval. The exhibit was a huge hit and received high praises from media outlets around the world. One day we were working on an appearance and I was in her parlor packing my trunk. Tyra asked me to come to her office when I was done. Tyra came in with her assistant and asked me to work with her on her show. I was asked to join the cast and team of America’s Next Top Model and to be “The First Lead Wardrobe Stylist to America’s Next Top Model”. I immediately said yes. I worked on her mega hit television show for 2 years. I styled the opener, all of the ads, Tyra Mail, 40 on camera looks for Tyra and around

200 looks on the models, as well as, the finale runway show. Tyra Banks elevated my career to Celebrity Stylist status. I know a lot of people are running around calling themselves a “celebrity stylist”, but they may not be. Unless you have amassed 150 high fashion covers or been on a huge hit television show with on-camera appearances... I don’t know how one can call themselves a “celebrity”. I mean America’s Next Top Model aired in 189 countries, had 26 franchises andstreamed worldwide. And Tyra wanted to bestow that on me. When we were working together, I told her that I had no idea this was even possible. I said this was a dream come true. Tyra looked at me and said, “TyRon, now you have to dream bigger.” Now I am working with my mentor Daymond John from Shark Tank. He is overseeing my first book based on fashion, beauty and style. Metropolitan: Who are your fashion influences and who are the important voices in fashion today? My fashion influence are an eclectic mix of people that I have looked up to, admired and tried to emulate in my life and career. I am obsessed with Grace Jones. Her level of creativity is unmatched. Not only is she a wildly talented July/August 2020 | 49

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performer, she is a living, breathing, art instillation. No one has done more for couture, high fashion and the fashion is art movement then Grace Jones. I have an Andy Warhol portrait of her in my living room so that I feel her energy everyday. I am obsessed with Beyoncé and Rihanna are just the quintessential style and beauty icons. What Olivier Rousteing is doing for Balmain is insane! I love what he is all about. He is unbelievably creative and a really important voice for the future of fashion. What The Blonds are doing is like no other. They have figured out an amazing niche for themselves that is a modern day “Glam Rock” collection and I can’t stop looking at the gorgeously gender fluid designer Phillipe Blond. If you are not aware of Omar Salam from S.U.K.E.N.I.A., then you are asleep at the wheel. He is becoming the next big thing in fashion. My friend Michael Costello can cut a mean gown and set the red carpet on fire! And one of my new favorites is Victoria Hayes. Can I say hip, chic, elegant and fashion forward all in the same sentence? Daymond John from 50 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

“Shark Tank” and Nick Cannon from “The Masked Singer” are the two best dressed men in television history. But, that’s who’s on the scene today. I love taking fashion cues from the past. The late, great Karl Lagerfeld, whom I had the pleasure of working for left us with such a great legacy. He was such a wonderful man and extremely talented. Diana Vreeland made fashion trends that we still follow today and she made photo shoots epic. Her documentary, “The Eye Must Travel”, left me in awe. And the living legend himself, Andre’ Leon Talley has an innate ability to articulate fashion in a way that was exciting, exuberant, polished and ultra refined. No one articulates fashion like Mr. Talley. Metropolitan Magazine: We heard you walked the runway last season for charity. Can you tell us about The Blue Jacket Fashion Show? Ty-Ron Mayes: I was so excited when the cofounder of The Blue Jacket Fashion Show asked me to walk for his charity fashion show. I was

so honored to lend my name to this amazing cause and we officially kicked off fashion week at Pier 59 Studios! For those who do not know, The Blue Jacket Fashion Show kicked off New York Fashion Week’s Fall Winter 2020 season. This was the fourth annual event and it is completely dedicated to Prostate Cancer Prevention and Awareness. Frederick Anderson, the co-founder of Blue Jacket, asked me to join the cast of A-Listers such as musician David Byrne, TV personalities Dr. Mehmet Oz and Jesse Palmer, educator Bill Nye “The Science Guy”, actors Lee Tergenson, Dominic Fumusa and Jeremy Carver, news anchor Mike Woods, professional football player Buster Skrine, TV personalities Nigel Barker and Carson Kressley, radio hosts Elvis Duran and DJ Envy, Supermodel Alex Lundqvist, fashion icon Simon Doonan and men’s health expert Dr. Mike Varshavski. The evening was hosted by fashion industry icon André Leon Talley. i wore this amazing navy and black striped sequin dinner jacket and slacks from Tallia Orangeand a beautiful silver boutonnière from

Fleur’d Pins. Although it was great to be in the company of such extraordinary men, I did the showbecause prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind skin cancer. Approximately one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point during their lifetime. And 1 in 7 men of African descent will be diagnosed. I walked to bring awareness to all of the men in my life. My brother and my father, my uncles and friends and all of the men of color out there who need to hear how important early prevention is! You know what’s in Fashion this season? Checking your prostate! Metropolitan: Speaking of what’s in fashion this season, can you give us a few tips or trends for 2020? Ty-Ron Mayes: Savage Prints As boutiques and store began to open, you can look forward to some really big trends heading your way. Animal prints have been unleashed and wild prints are back. Some

are classic and other will be in fierce, popping colors. Like Megan Thee Stallion, you can be a “Savage” this season by incorporating animal prints into your wardrobe. Eclectic Prints This season, don’t be afraid to mix and match prints Matter of fact, try mixing some floral with your new animal prints and explore jungle couture. Try mixing and matching or layering prints. You will be surprised how breaking old rules will start new trends. Winter Whites You will find that after Labor Day, year around whites are fresh, chic and on trend. And it is so chic to see all of the editors seated in the front row of New York Fashion Week crossing the legs and wearing white ankle boots in complete defiance to the antiquated rules set by Mr. Blackwell. Mr. Mayes says white after Labor Day is a must!

Yes, I said it, Beige is the new rage for the fall. But, don’t stop at just a monochromatic look of beige from head to toe, go for many shades of Beige. Layer and combine Beige with chocolates, browns, taupes and camel colors. The New Nude Shoe Not all nude shades are “your nude”. Today, you can find a great nude pump or straps stiletto. Designers Salone Monet and Ade Hassan, literally changed the way we wear nude shoes. They are designing nude shoes for every woman’s skin tones. Finally! Masks Of course, the biggest fashion accessory is and will be Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and N95 masks to block infections by viruses and bacteria from bodily fluids. As masks become more of a part of our lives, you will be seeing decorative masks, high-end masks and masks that will reflect your personality.

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Wladimiro Speranzoni PHOTOGRAPHER

BY SEHRA

ladimiro Speranzoni, owner of the “ Wladi’s photo” photographic studio, is a professional photographer. He has covered numerous private and social events, still-life, industrial photography and fashion services. Venetian born in 1970, in the past he tried to raise public awareness on the social issue of urban solitudes through the exhibition “Margini”, which tried to give voice to those who, by choice or obligation, still find themselves living on the margins of the society. In the field of industrial photography he has often been hired with the task of enhancing the products of some companies; has thus had the opportunity to work on many catalogs and brochures, including some for the hotels “Hilton Molino Stucky”, “The Westin Europa & Regina”, “Cà Sagredo”, “Cipriani”, “The islands” of Venice and others, several wellness centers, the “Dogaressa” catering, the “La venexiana” shipyard for which it promoted the pleasure boats they built and some glass factories such as the “Vistosi” and the “Tagliapietra & Badioli”, the “Galeone di Venice”; in addition, some of his images have been included in the “Small luxury hotels of the world” series in the book “Celebrating 20 years of luxury”. He also

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performed photographic services to follow events and inaugurations, collaborating with important Italian and foreign brands, including the Benè organization, the Damiani, Rocca, Vhernier, Kitton stores. He also participated as official photographer in the 20th anniversary of Calzedonia and offered his services for the coverage of corporate conferences for Vodafone, Telecom Italia, Smith & Nephew, Technics / Panasonic and Volkswagen during the launch of the Passat. He currently collaborates with more than twenty-seven Italian and foreign agencies that organize Catholic, Orthodox, Jewish, Anglican and blessing religious events and ceremonies. He carried out a photo shoot working in close contact with the artist Loredana Raciti for the Venice Biennale, and also carried out a service on the exhibition of painting and sculpture at Palazzo Grassi taken from the collection of François Pinault “Sequence”, with the participation of Naomi Campbell. Between 2009 and 2010 he collaborated with the Venice Biennale for the pavilions of Spain and Estonia, and for the realization of the catalog of art and architecture with the great photographer Dean Kaufman. He also worked for the Golinelli foundation.He performs photographic services for the consulate of Monaco and for Prince

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Albert, has had the opportunity to work on photographic services for the Savoy family, and has personally followed VIP weddings including the footballer Massimo Ambrosini and social parties with the participation of personalities from the world political and entertainment. He also works for the navy to cover various events including visits by the chief of staff, the president of the republic Giorgio Napolitano and the foreign minister Ignazio La Russa; and starting from this year he also offers his professionalism to the “Francesco Morosini” military naval school in Venice. For years he has been carrying out photographic services for the most important

and well-known classical and modern dance schools in Venice, and he also works for ANCE in Venice, for the knights of Malta, knights of St. Mark and Italy association. Photographer also for charity events such as the one held for the collection of donations to help the Riviera del Brenta “in the tornado emergency”, and last but not least held last September 2015, an event with clothes by the designer Sabrina Franceschini for which sport champions such as the queen of speed on the track Manuela Levorato, the under 20 world champion Erica Cipressa, the Italian sailing champion Laura Cosentino, the Alpine skiing Olympian Alessia Dipol and Bebe Vio, fresh from the world title of paralytic fencing in favor

of the association Art4Sport. With them also the Venetian model Maria Doria. He also had the pleasure of being an official photographer at the Istambul to Venice event held at the Cipriani hotel, and also at a high fashion and show event where he was able to meet and photograph Mariano di Vaio, Linday Lohan and beyond. Wladi and his staff is always ready to make you happy and is therefore available for travel as has just happened, in Switzerland for the 30th anniversary of Original Nimesulide. wladisphoto.com

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IN THE NAME OF LOVE

Paul Mahos & New Life Crisis Live Music from the Heart BY ADAM KLUGER

hen you have a conversation with Paul Mahos, you think what a nice, normal, humble, down-toearth guy. Then you watch a video clip of morning talk show host Michael Strahan telling his co-host Kelly Ripa, about this amazing band and charismatic lead singer he saw over the weekend at a Long Island charity event, “this guy was so talented and just like Bono but with blonde hair-I was totally blown away!” The punchline, of course, is that Strahan forgot in his morning coffee talk spiel to even mention the actual name of the band, Paul Mahos & New Life Crisis. Mahos doesn’t take offensehe’s just happy that his audiences love what he does. Mahos sheepishly admits that he often gets compared to Bono for his emotional, over the top singing style.

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“Some people also think I look like Bono (laugh) That’s why I usually have my hair in different colors-the vibe is like Bono.” Not a bad comparison for any lead singer! Paul Mahos & New Life Crisis are well known for their musical mash-ups and DJ like sets, customizing & catering songs across musical genres to each and every audience. As the band leader, Mahos creates fresh takes on everything from George Michael, David Bowie, Prince, Elton John, U2, Johnny Cash, Elvis, and Depeche Mode to Barry White & The Bee Gees. Queen and Billy Joel are also personal favorites. “I love theatrical tunes. The Beatles had no rules. A large part of that was their producer George Martin. The Beatles were musically proficient and encouraged to explore. I try to do the same thing with our music, push outside the comfort zone.” Mahos adds, “I like to be musically in the moment, always writing and recording.” Paul Mahos who has been playing music since he was eighteen, says that his love of music was inspired by Elvis Presley and the Beatles. His favorite Beatles song, “A Day In The Life” not surprisingly, is a mash-up of sorts of its own. For Mahos, musical experimentation is not about getting rich or becoming super58 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

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New Life Crisis, as photographed by Jeff Tisman | Flicker

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famous, its more about the chance to perform and a love for music. “It’s about the most expensive hobby you could find,” he laughs. The true reward for Mahos is being able to entertain others and do what he loves. He rarely goes into any gig with a set-list, preferring instead to vibe with his audience and go from there. Mahos says that the music business is an unforgiving business, particularly the business side of the business. One story Mahos recently shared with me involved the unexpected troubles that popped up when one of his songs, “Daylight in Your Eyes, “ rose to #1 in the charts in Germany. Success it seems,

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can lead to all sorts of fighting over money and ownership rights along with the other typical peaks and valleys of being a working musician. For Mahos, one major career highlight was getting signed by the prestigious music label Tommyboy records. “I broke down and cried.” There have been plenty of other highlights. In 2005 the Band, New Life Crisis was chosen to tour on the Steve Madden Rock and Sole Concert series which concluded at the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame Museum in Cleveland Ohio. In 2008 Paul’s original song “Breaking” was featured on the long time running daytime soap opera “The Guiding Light.”

While the pandemic has changed the way that Mahos and other live bands are able to interact with their fans. Mahos says he is taking advantage of the slight break in touring to archive the band’s music on YouTube and elsewhere. “Fans download a song on iTunes for 99 cents but they have no idea how much actual work goes into creating a song.” For Paul Mahos the labor of love is well worth it. Website: http://paul-mahos.com/ Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCwo9-2ceTqpePYwyffshrNw Myspace: https://myspace.com/ paulmahosnewlifecrisis

@ NEW LIFE CRISIS on Flicker

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Photo courtesy of SAG-AFTRA Foundation/Getty Images

The SAG-AFTRA Foundation RAISING MILLIONS FOR COVID BY LEANNA PILOSOF

he SAG-AFTRA Foundation announced today that it has raised more than $7.8 million dollars in contributions for its COVID-19 Relief Fund for SAGAFTRA artists in dire need. On March 16, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, along with the SAG-AFTRA Motion Picture Players’ Welfare Fund, launched a COVID-19 Relief Fund for SAGAFTRA members. Since activating the Fund, the Foundation has already given over $5.2 million in emergency financial assistance to more than 5,601 SAG-AFTRA artists and their families with

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hundreds of applications still in process and thousands of performers still in need. For over 35 years, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has been a vital resource for SAG-AFTRA performers seeking emergency financial assistance. But due to what has amounted to a near industry-wide shutdown, thousands of performers have been unable to work, and many second and third survival jobs have also been eliminated during the crisis. For the past several months, the Foundation has

focused its efforts on raising significant funds to meet the unprecedented need within the SAGAFTRA community to help feed their families, pay their rent or keep their health insurance due to the enormous impact of the pandemic. “It’s been a spectacular showing of the performance community coming together, stepping up and supporting their own,” said Courtney B. Vance, SAG-AFTRA Foundation President, who leads a weekly inspirational Fireside Chat video for SAG-AFTRA artists updating them on the status of aid distribution. “Our phenomenal

emails industry-wide, as well as participating in videos and signing letters asking top-level donors to join their cause. Industry agencies CAA, WME and UTA have all bolstered these efforts among their clients. “The devastating effects of COVID-19 are in our own backyard, and we’re doing what we can for our colleagues and collaborators who need help,” said Tom Hanks, a member of the Foundation’s Actors’ Council, who along with partner Rita Wilson, have been a central part of the fundraising efforts. “The economy of an actor’s life is uncertain and inconsistent enough in normal times, but this shutdown has placed our members in jeopardy. I am grateful to join with others who are able to help ease the burden of our colleagues,” said Actors’ Council member Meryl Streep, one of the first to step up and support the Foundation’s Relief Fund.

Actors’ Council is leading the way, building a Fund that is about actors supporting their fellow actors, and the industry is giving their support, as well. Together, we have been able to grant several millions of dollars in emergency aid to thousands of SAG-AFTRA artists in need over the last three months. But with the long-term effects of production shutdowns to continue for months to come, we must remain vigilant and unified in our mission to support the performers who have contributed to the successes of this industry. They now need our support. As our Foundation is completely donor-dependent, we are asking

everyone to give whatever they can, and join us in this critical relief effort.” Beneficiaries of the Foundation’s COVID-19 Relief Fund receive grants averaging $1,000 for basic needs. Grants are being distributed by the Actors’ Fund. The Foundation’s COVID-19 Relief Fund effort has been a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign led by Vance and several members of the Foundation’s Actors’ Council. The group has been working tirelessly making phone calls and sending out

SAG-AFTRA Foundation Relief Fund supporters include the Foundation’s Actors’ Council members: Annette Bening, Cate Blanchett, George Clooney, Bryan Cranston, Matt Damon, Robert De Niro, Jane Fonda, Harrison Ford and Calista Flockhart, Tony Goldwyn and Jane Musky, Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, Dustin Hoffman, Nicole Kidman, Eva Longoria Baston, Edward Norton and Shauna Robertson, and Meryl Streep, and additional performers: Patricia Arquette, Ike Barinholtz, Tom Bergeron, Rachel Bloom, Steve and Nancy Carell, Gabrielle Carteris, Fala Chen, Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Nick Jonas, Glenn Close, Danny DeVito, Joel Edgerton, Sam Elliott, Ben Falcone and Melissa McCarthy, Dakota Fanning, Elle Fanning, Jason George, Anne Hathaway, Helen Hunt, Tea Leoni, Chrissy Metz, Julianne Moore and Bart Freundlich, Bill Nye, Lupita Nyong’o, Paul Pape, Jim Parsons and Todd Spiewak, Pauley Perrette, Brad Pitt, Natalie Portman, Pamela Reed, Patricia Richardson, Margot Robbie, Kurt Russell, Susan Sarandon, Naomi Scott, Cobie Smulders, Jack Speer, Octavia Spencer, Barbra Streisand, Donald Sutherland, JoBeth Williams, and over nine hundred additional supporters. “This pandemic has been devastating for performing artists. For too many, this Fund may be their only safety net, which highlights the cracks in the larger socio-economic system,” said actor Lupita Nyong’o, who made a significant contribution to the Fund to support her fellow artists. July/August 2020 | 65

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“Everyone who has been able to find success in this industry has done so because at some point in their journey they received a helping hand. Right now, we’re all coming together in various ways to make sure people who need help are able to receive it,” said Actors’ Council member Bryan Cranston, who is helping to lead the charge raising funds and awareness. In addition, the industry has stepped up in a significant way to support SAG-AFTRA performers in need. In March, Netflix contributed over $1 66 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

million to the relief effort, and more recently, Sony Pictures Entertainment made a $1 million contribution to the Foundation’s COVID-19 Relief Fund. Additional industry support has been given by AMC Networks, Anthem Blue Cross, Backstage, Berlanti Family Foundation, City National Bank, David Geffen Foundation, HFPA, Johnny Carson Foundation, Bryan Lourd, Dana Norris and Steve Tisch, and Participant. “It’s an optimistic start, though given most productions may remain dark for several months

ahead, there is more work to be done and we’re encouraging industry leaders who are able to support us to give what they can,” said Actors’ Council member Cate Blanchett, who has also been a key supporter and leader in this effort. The Foundation has also received additional support from performers at every level. Some prominent figures, such as Tom Bergeron and others, are taking their talents to Cameo. com with proceeds benefiting the Fund. The Foundation is also receiving help from various performers who are creating digital fundraisers

and a daily soap series to help support relief efforts. “I’ve been a working actress since I was 14, and this community is my family. It’s critical we support those who have played a part in the success of this industry,” said Actors’ Council member Nicole Kidman. As the pandemic takes us further into uncharted territory, the Foundation and its supporters will continue to raise funds. Based on the anticipated

needs of the community in the weeks and months ahead, the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has set a goal of raising $12 million. For those who can help, please consider supporting the effort at: www. sagaftra.foundation/donate.

children’s literacy program Storyline Online®. The Foundation relies solely on support from gifts, grants and sponsorships to maintain its free programs. For more information, visit sagaftra. foundation.

About: The SAG-AFTRA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides vital assistance and free educational programming to the professionals of SAG-AFTRA while serving the public at large with its award-winning

Connect with the SAG-AFTRA Foundation: Twitter: @sagaftraFOUND Instagram: @sagaftraFOUND Facebook: facebook.com/sagaftrafoundation YouTube: youtube.com/sagaftrafoundation Hashtag: #SAGAFTRAfound

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Wilk Auslander’s Names Leading Trial Attorney

Randy Zelin HEAD OF CRIMINAL LAW PRACTICE BY ELIZABETH DARWEN

A noted trial attorney with a concentration in white collar criminal defense as well as complex civil litigation matters, Randy Zelin has been named a New York Super Lawyer in consecutive years from 2011 through 2020 and has over 30 years of experience defending individual and corporate clients in both State and Federal Courts across the United States. Randy Zelin was recently appointed Head of Wilk Auslander’s Criminal Law Practice. Zelin is presently representing Akbar Rogers, the high-profile police brutality case in Freeport, New York, and has been interviewed by Newsweek concerning the Akbar Rogers case and police brutality cases. Due to the nature of this case and the recent George Floyd protests, Zelin has also appeared on Fox News, Newsmax and CBS This Morning to discuss police brutality cases. Zelin, who started his career as a prosecutor, has represented many types of business organizations, boards of directors, special committees, professionals and individuals in all aspects of criminal, regulatory, self-regulatory and civil matters, including frauds related to securities, banking, tax, customs, bankruptcy and insurance to name a few. In other words, Zelin is a true trial lawyer, having built his career trying complex fraud and business crime cases. He hasn’t been named a Super Lawyer for nothing; Zelin has successfully defended many high-profile cases. He received world-wide acclaim for his representation of scion of the Fiat industrial dynasty, industrialist and entrepreneur Lapo Elkann, as he negotiated and obtained a dismissal of all criminal charges against Mr. Elkann before charges were ever filed in court. In another case, Zelin successfully defended a 68 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

federal insider trading case where the government dismissed the case after the jury could not reach a verdict and a mistrial was declared.

Times and the Wall Street Journal, where he offers his expertise on a wide range of legal issues and cases.

there even is a problem, where the high-profile clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s problems get no publicity, and where the client never sees the inside of a courtroom.

A highly sought after legal commentator for the media, Zelin regularly appears on Fox News, Fox Business Channel, CNN, CBSN, CNN Headline News, Bloomberg i24 News, AP News, Law and Crime, Yahoo Finance and local network television and in the New York Law Journal, the New York

Zelin is known throughout the United States as having successfully gotten a 345-month downward variance for a celebrity client in a federal securities fraud case. His greatest achievements, however, are those that never come to light â&#x20AC;&#x201C; where the problem is solved before

For more information on Randy Zelin, visit: www. wilkauslander.com I: @zelinrandy | T: @RandyZelinNews

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Dr. Lev Kalika OWNER OF NEW YORK DYNAMIC NEUROMUSCULAR REHABILITATION & PHYSICAL THERAPY IN NEW YORK CITY HOW TECHNOLOGY WILL SHAPE PATIENT CARE BY SCOT T KILE Your rehabilitation/PT clinic is known for its technology treatments from augmented reality to artificial intelligence. Why did you choose to have a clinic rooted in technology? I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. It just came as an experience with gait analysis and diagnostic ultrasonography. With those treatments, patients would have symptomatic improvements, but either their

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movements didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change or their structural pathology would remain the same on imaging. Meaning, symptomatic improvement does not equate to the cause of the pathology being eliminated. This led me to the conclusion that there must be more precise ways to test human movement and to give feedback. I started to

study biomechanics at the same time these technologies were developing. Since I already had a very solid foundation in functional movement sciences from some of the best in the world, I was able to figure out how to make physical therapy and rehabilitation objective. Because the truth is, PT and rehab are not objective on the large scale. I wanted to be able to objectify, register and reassess

the movement so I could have objective multimodal and comparative diagnoses between the field of radiology and motion analysis. It took me 12 years to become an expert in diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasonography, rehabilitative sonography, fascial sonography and motion and gait analysis. What are some newer types of tech treatments that are improving the health of people today? A good example is the field of oncology. At large we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t made a breakthrough in curing cancer, but we are saving many more lives because technology allows for earlier diagnosis, better staging and more precise intervention. How are technology treatments more effective than non-tech treatments? Can you give an example? I think we are at the beginning of the next tech era. Before the 90s, doctors were only clinical and had great clinical skills. That was very valuable. Then a new wave of technology came in the 90s, and we shifted 360 degrees to be relying on the machinery. This did impress patients, but there was a downside to the new technology: doctors became lazy and lost the most precocious skills of clinical diagnosis. Many things went wrong and are still wrong, but I believe this is coming to an end. Doctors will gain back the clinical skills, and this new era of technology will be more objective as the technology is progressing medicine to a new level. One example: we have been doing rotator cuff surgery for 40 years with no advancements - they were always tricky! Only until last year, due to development in resolution, we realized that what we thought was a rotator cuff tendon was only 50% of the actual tendon, while the other 50% is the capsule of a joint. Other examples of technology treatments that are more effective than non-technology treatments: ultrasound guided dry needling vs blind dry needling; ultrasound guided joint injection vs blind joint injections; the whole field of neurological physical therapy has been at large moving toward technology, which is next-level for the field. In addition to technology treatments, how else is technology shaping patient care? I see a big future in wearable technologies. This field is developing very fast. These technologies can show us what is happening in real time and we can trace the behavior, which allows us to observe dynamics of care.

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How much of the health/medical industry is not run by technology? Do you see this changing? If so, how? There will always be some parts of medical care based on human interaction; however, in the future, more and more medical treatments will be dependent on technology. But let’s be realistic, no machine at this time can substitute human interaction and replace the human brain. The interaction is very important because patients are human, not machines, and they get better by human interaction. But what will be improved is that technology will be able to detect if pain is better whether because there is real change in movement behavior or there is a placebo effect from human interaction. I have been employing therapists for twenty years and I have observed that patients may feel better while they are attached to a kind and caring therapist, even though that therapist might not

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have delivered the best or the most appropriate care. For example, I’ve had cases where the motion analysis showed no real improvement in a patient who had a strong bond to their therapist, and as soon as the patient got out of care of that particular therapist, the symptoms returned. This is where I see a big problem with physiotherapy right now - there are a lot of placebo effects. At New York Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy, we have acquired a reputation of treating and diagnosing what other doctors and therapists fail to treat and diagnose. For every patient who did not improve under their previous PT’s care, I ask what their previous treatment was like. Every time, they describe a very cookie cutter approach; but yet, the patients will always say, “Oh, but my PT was so nice”. A nice therapist is always important, but niceness does not ensure excellent craft in medicine. Without great skill, patients will not be cured. It is both the skill and compassion that makes a great therapist.

Do you think people are trusting technology treatments more or less now? Why do you think that is? I think it depends on the individual. The younger generation appreciates technology more. Also, not all technologies are effective or productive; therefore, people are sometimes skeptical about new technologies, unless they can see the face value. What kinds of tech treatments do you anticipate in the future that do not exist yet? In the near future, I think there will be more availability and integration of the technology that we have now. In about 10-15 years, medicine is going to catch up to physiotherapy. There will be things like non-invasive transcranial brain stimulation to target specific neurons responsible for key muscle groups or particular fibers.

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Top Sotheby’s Broker Lisa Maysonet EXPANDING TO THE HAMPTONS

BY SALOME LANGVIN ith 40 years of success selling Manhattan’s top properties, go-to luxury real estate expert Lisa Maysonet is making waves in the red-hot

the layouts of and exclusively marketing over a dozen well-known new developments and conversions, such as Park South Lofts.

Manhattan Living, NY Observer, The Real Deal, NY Living, Fox 5, Discovery Channel, WB 11 and Germany’s Proseiban.

In 2015, Lisa, alongside her husband and partner Gary Kabol, successfully negotiated the WeWork deal at 88 University Place for $70 million.

To better serve her longstanding New York clients, Maysonet -- the tour-de-force behind Group Maysonet at Sotheby’s International Realty – is now marketing the East End’s most exclusive residences and new developments.

“I’ve worked with real estate professionals, architects and developers in markets like Hong Kong, Russia, Canada and Israel,” she says. “I study the product, the finishes, the layouts, the development, how they do things, and bring that knowledge, expertise and passion to the homes I sell to my clients.”

She is also a member of the Real Estate Board of New York, Long Island Board of Realtors, Associated Builders & Owners Association, Professional Women in Construction, Association of Real Estate Women, Parents League of NY, Covenant House for Homeless Teens, Children’s Aid Society, and Spirituality for Kids. She also volunteers at God’s Love We Deliver.

Hamptons market.

“This expansion into the Hamptons is exciting and very energizing,” says Maysonet, who started her career in the real estate industry at Walters & Samuels when she was just 17 years old. “I love the amazing homes out here. My New York buyers are out here. Now I’m out here and I’m bringing my deep love of real estate and global expertise with me.” For decades, Maysonet has been a key marketing advisor to the world’s top developers, influencing 74 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

Her new Hamptons office compliments her established Madison Avenue business, where she has handled more than $1 billion in real estate transactions to date, along the city’s best-known Park and Fifth Avenue addresses. Maysonet’s outstanding real estate track recorded has earned her coverage in The New York Times, New York Post, People, CNN/Money, Forbes.com,

“I started in this business in 1970s and I’ve never stopped expanding,” she says. “I successfully navigated through a myriad of markets, credit crises, 9/11, and 19.5 percent interest rates. Through it all, I never stopped. It’s because I work hard for my clients. I work hard. Period.” Lisa Maysonet Group Maysonet at Sotheby’s International Realty www.sothebyshomes.com/nyc/agents/lisa. maysonet

ERIC PAYSON July/August 2020 | 75

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Iil Glardino Di Pippo BY SEHRA

“Giardino di Pippo design lab” nasce dalla voglia di creare un luogo unico dove Marco Carolina e Lorenzo Marin (LCM MARIN DESIGN STUDIO) “coltivano” le loro idee. Oggetti, lampade e complementi di abbigliamento da loro disegnati prendono forma grazie alla sapienza di artigiani Italiani. Lo studio di Marco Marin designer veneziano anche insieme alla moglie Carolina si occupa di interior e industrial design collabora con importanti brand nazionali ed internazionali come Barovier e Toso, Vistosi, Nason Moretti, Pallucco, Brokis, Hind Rabii, Emu group. 76 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

In questi anni ha ricevuto numerosi riconoscimenti tra cui nel 2019 Il Wall paper Design award, German Design award, Archiproducts design award. “Giardino di Pippo design lab” was born from the desire to create a unique place where Marco Carolina and Lorenzo Marin (LCM MARIN DESIGN STUDIO) “cultivate” their ideas. Objects, lamps and clothing accessories designed by them take shape thanks to the wisdom of Italian craftsmen. The studio of Marco Marin, Venetian designer, also together with his wife Carolina,

deals with interior and industrial design and collaborates with important national and international brands such as Barovier and Toso, Vistosi, Nason Moretti, Pallucco, Brokis, Hind Rabii, Emu group. In recent years she has received numerous awards including in 2019 the Wall paper Design award, German Design award, Archiproducts design award.

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artform

Peter Shankman

SOCIAL MEDIA SAVANT (DON’T CALL HIM A “GURU”--WAY TOO CLICHE!) BY ADAM KLUGER

Ways to tell your Social Media “Expert” Might Not Be An “Expert” After All by Peter Shankman 1. They call themselves an evangelist, guru, or expert, and no one else does. 2. They use “expert” or “evangelist” or “guru” or our personal favorite, “influencer” as any of their user names. 3. They “discovered” social media in the last six to 16 months, and there’s nothing online from them in the social media space prior to that. (Remember – Google is your friend.) 4. All of a firm or agency’s “social media strategists” come from traditional PR or Marketing agencies. 5. Everything they learned about social media they learned by reading blog posts (i.e. no application). You can learn a ton about sex from reading Kinsey’s manuals, but I’d still rather be with someone who has some practical experience. 6. They haven’t done anything of significance using social media (i.e. demonstrating they know how to apply the tools). Again, see the point on Kinsey. 78 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

7. They keep shouting about “widgets.” (Or worse, they’re still talking about push marketing.) 8. Their resume doesn’t include anything that has to do with social media (i.e. no results using social media). And no, having a Twitter account doesn’t cut it. 9. Their firm has added social media as an additional service (as opposed to integrating it into a comprehensive PR approach). If they say “And we’ll do Facebook and Other Pearls of Wisdom from Peter Shankman: “Everyone tells you to have a backup plan when you fail…Have a backup plan for when you succeed.” “Bad writing will kill your business faster than cancer.” “Become top of mind…Say hi. Start the conversation.” “Do something so great that people want to promote it for you.” “If you don’t have haters, you’re not doing enough to change the status quo.” petershankman.com

Editor’s Note: As a journalist turned publicist turned magazine editor, the name Peter Shankman was already quite familiar to me. Shankman’s free, on-line service called Help a Reporter Out (HARO) enables reporters, publicists, and top experts to connect and collaborate on breaking news stories. HARO made subscribing to a pay service called Profnet obsolete. It also saved !me! some money. But, Peter Shankman is much more than a disruptor, he is also a connector and social media/trend/ communication & customer service expert as well. Try saying that 10 times fast. You probably can’t. But Peter can. He’s a triathlete, a skydiver and he talks fast, thinks fast, and multi-tasks faster than anyone you’ve ever met. He credits having ADHD for helping to get so much done every day. He considers his ADHD his superpower, which he discusses in his popular book, “Faster Than Normal: Turbocharge Your Focus, Productivity, and Success with the Secrets of the ADHD Brain,” and on his supercool podcast, Faster Than Normal. A 5X Best-selling author, corporate keynote speaker, and entrepreneur, some of Shankman’s other popular book titles include: Zombie Loyalists: Using Great Service to Create Rabid Fans, Nice Companies Finish First: Why Cutthroat Management is over and Collaboration is In., Customer Service: New Rules for a Social-Enabled World, Can We Do That!: Outrageous PR Stunts That Work.

DIANA DEVENDORF RICE D i a n a D e ve n d o r f Ri c e i s pl e a s e d to b e re p re s e n ti n g S o t h eb y ’s In te r n a ti o n a l Re a l t y u n d e r t h e me n to r s h i p of S ta n Po n te, S e n i o r G l oba l Re a l E sta te Adv i s o r, a n d o n e of Ma n h a tta n ’s m o st re s p e cte d a g e n t s.

35 West 15th Street, Apt 9C 4 br, 4 ba, 1 hf ba | Property ID: 99FJWJ | $5,875,000

200 East 66th Street, Apt E2101 4 br, 4 ba | Property ID: VQGRZF | $12,950,000

65 Central Park West, Apt 15A 3 br, 2 ba | Property ID: 864F4G | $2,250,000

2 Park Place, Apt 45A 3 br, 2 ba, 1 hf ba | Property ID: LDW5NQ | $6,295,000 *Listings provided courtesy of Stan Ponte

Diana Devendorf Rice Licensed Salesperson | 212.606.7602 diana.rice@sothebyshomes.com East Side Manhattan Brokerage | 650 Madison Avenue | New York, NY 10022 | 212.606.7660 © Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. All rights reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark. This material is based upon information which we consider reliable but because it has been supplied by third parties, we cannot represent that it is accurate or complete and it should not be relied upon as such. This offering is subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Real estate agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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Lizzie Asher NEW VIRTUAL CHARITY FOR CAREGIVERS

he parties are on pause but quarantine hasn’t stopped the giving. Young philanthropist, activist and entrepreneur Elizabeth “Lizzie” Asher has announced the launch of her new non-profit The Cura Collective.

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BY ELIZABETH DARWEN Founded by Lizzie and four close friends, the new virtual charitable organization, which aims to help communities rebuild in the wake of major disasters, is working to care for those who are on the front lines of caring for others during the Covid-19 pandemic. “We are driven by a belief that the most powerful

care is given by the people and communities around us,” says Lizzie. “That’s why it’s so important to be compassionate and donate resources during this difficult time.” The Cura Collective has already come to the aid of medical professionals who are caring for the sick in New York City hospitals. Lizzie -- along

with Mercedes de Guardiola, Casey Kohlberg, Laura Day-Webb and Nora Boyd – worked with local restaurants such as NoMad Kitchen and delivered meals to the ICUs at New York Presbyterian, Columbia University Medical Center and Lenox Hill and Bellevue Hospital. In addition, they have also organized the delivery of over 5,000 toiletries and wellness products to healthcare workers staying in temporary housing thanks to donations from Oars + Alps and the Peninsula Hotel. That was just the beginning. The group is now working with more restaurants to deliver meals to non-profits working with families in the Bronx that have been particularly hard hit during the shutdown. These families have disproportionately shouldered the burden of unemployment and many of these children have lost the benefit of their school meals. As all of the efforts grow, Lizzie says that The Cura Collective will build “sustainable and scalable programs to support frontline efforts during the pandemic.” Lizzie, a Peruvian-born Harvard Law School graduate already well-known figure in New York’s philanthropic scene, says that she is on a mission to “redefine giving for a new generation.” Inspired by the strong women in her family and professional life, she relaunched the Young Friends of Save Venice, which helps to restore and preserve the historical artworks and architecture of Venice, Italy. Last year, Lizzie co-hosted the Parrish Art Museum’s Annual Midsummer After Party and was part of the Benefit Committee of the Frick’s Young Fellows Ball and New York Botanical Garden Winter Wonderland Ball. She also supports various other charities such as the Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation’s Angel Ball, the White Cross Ball of New York and SEA’s 25th Anniversary Gala. She recently spoke to women graduates of Harvard on the topic of work/life balance for the university’s 65th Anniversary of admitting women students. With her husband, Lizzie also leads a private endowment that raises money for the Asher-Ezra Scholarship Fund – part of the non-profit City Squash. The scholarship provides financial aid to underprivileged Latino children in the Bronx and Brooklyn who excel at squash. More information can be found at curacollective. org. July/August 2020 | 81

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James Schultz THE DIAMOND BUYING PROCESS BY JENNIFER KROSCHE What are the four C’s to remember when buying a diamond? Cut is the most important! This is not referring to the outline shape of a diamond, but rather to the angles and proportions (basically the geometry) of the stone. The cut determines how light enters and exits the diamond, directly relating to brilliance, fire and scintillation. Carat is how much the diamond weighs on the scale. It greatly affects the value of the diamond, but it does not always tell you how big a diamond “looks” so it is important to look at the millimeter measurements when comparing stones. It is also a great idea to look for diamonds that weigh just under “magic numbers” like 1ct, 1.50ct, 2ct and so on. A 0.90ct and a 1ct of equal cut grades will look the same size, but you may have luck finding a better deal on the diamond that weighs slightly less! Color refers to how much visible color the diamond has. D-Z diamonds are graded face-down and fancy colored diamonds are graded face-up. D-F is the highest color category, referred to as “colorless” and they are very rare, commanding higher prices. You certainly do not need to go this high in color, especially if you are considering yellow or rose gold for the setting. There are many gorgeous and pricefriendly options in the “near-colorless” category of G-J. 82 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

Clarity tells you how many inclusions or blemishes are present and visible under 10x magnification. Many customers are surprised at just how “eyeclean” some of the lower clarities can be! SI1-2 and even I1 diamonds can provide great values but should be viewed from a few different angles to ensure that there are no large dark crystals or excessive clouds/feathers that will be distracting or affect the light return in the face up position. A still image is not always enough, rather a 360° video like those on James Allen will show you where the clarity characteristics are positioned and how visible they may be to the eye. How many types of diamonds are there? And can you describe some of those types? Scientifically there are several types of diamonds based on their chemical makeup, but I will keep it simpler and stick with earth vs lab grown, as I think this is what they are referring to. The two major categories of diamonds in the market place today are earth grown and lab grown. Earth grown diamonds form deep within the earth under volatile conditions and are then brought closer to the surface by volcanic eruptions where they can be mined. Lab grown diamonds are an increasingly popular option as they are real diamonds, just formed in a laboratory using high-tech equipment. Lab grown diamonds offer the same optical and

chemical properties as earth grown but for a better price. It is important to consider that both growth methods are considered to be conflict-free (going through reputable sources) and both have different types of ecological impact. Follow your heart and it will guide you to the best type of diamond for your needs! If someone does not know their ring size and wants to buy a ring online, what should they do? The best way to confirm your ring size is through a professional jeweler, or a ring sizing kit sent to you in the mail. James Allen offers complimentary ring sizing kits to customers located within the US. If you are international or in a hurry, you can also use an online ring sizing assistant. It is very important to make sure your settings have been calibrated properly when using an online tool. Are there certain types of rings that look better on certain types of hands/fingers? If so, can you give an example or two? I think that you should wear the type of jewelry that makes you happy first and foremost! That being said, if you want to compliment longer fingers or maximize the size of your ring, consider an elongated shape like oval, pear or marquise. These shapes deliver larger “looks” for the same carat weight of a round, princess or cushion.

What types of diamond rings are the most affordable (for diamond ring standards)? And the most expensive? As we go down the scale of color and clarity that will in turn affect the value of the diamond. The same is true for going up into or near the colorless and flawless grades. Keep in mind that value does not always translate to beauty, and you can find stunning diamonds with a variety of mixed color and clarity combinations. Don’t be afraid to explore a little lower in color or clarity to see what you can find for a great price. The best tip: do not skimp on your cut, as that is what creates your sparkle! What are some tips for keeping a diamond ring in tip top shape (maybe keeping it out of the sun? washing it daily?)? And can you explain why these tips are helpful?

will always be trends that ebb and flow from setting styles, center stone shapes and even metal types. Pick a ring design that you absolutely love and it is bound to be treasured for many years to come, regardless of what the celebs are wearing! How can you tell if a diamond is real? And is there a way to differentiate a more expensive diamond from a less expensive diamond? A trained gemologist can assist you with confirming a diamond is real if you are ever unsure. Not only are there certain types of inclusions they can look for, but even the surface finish of the stone can separate a diamond from a simulant. Many diamonds also come with a laser inscription, visible under magnification, relating to their grading report. Depending on the qualities, it can be very hard to nearly impossible to determine which diamond is the more expensive of the bunch with just the eye!

Proper ring care includes removing and storing in a safe place during exercising, showering and sleeping. It is also wise to keep your ring away from rubber gloves (which can snag on prongs and bend/ snap them) and harsh chemicals like chlorine and bleach.

What are some ways to tell if a ring band is real? And is there a way to differentiate a more expensive ring band from a less expensive ring band?

Professional clean and checks are great every few months to make sure your ring is not only looking its shiny best, but to also get ahead of any concerns like loose stones or broken prongs. For an at-home cleaning, warm water with regular dish soap and an extra soft bristle toothbrush are perfect!

All fine jewelry sold within the US is required to have a stamp on the inside indicating its purity. While precious metals will show scratches and signs of wear, gold and platinum will not tarnish like inexpensive costume jewelry will. If you are in doubt check with a jeweler or appraiser who can loupe the jewelry and perform a simple test to confirm the alloy.

What types of diamond rings are always classic? And what types are a little more trendy? Designs like solitaire, clean side stone and even simple halo settings have all become classics! There

What is the average amount spent on a diamond ring? And what age group buys the most diamond rings?

The average diamond ring costs about $5,000 $6,000, though the range of budget possibilities is quite vast! You certainly do not need to spend that much to receive a gorgeous ring. The old rule of a specific month’s salary is also not really followed any longer. Instead you should view your diamond ring as an investment into the start of a life-long relationship and spend only what you feel comfortable spending at the time. Lovebirds come in all age groups, starting with highschool sweethearts and transcending through new and continuous couples in their 80+ years! Is there anything else important about the diamond ring buying process that should be mentioned? Go with your gut! If you find a diamond that you keep returning to over and over, that might just be the one! There will always be more diamonds to choose from and after a while you can make yourself dizzy trying to compare and scrutinize all of them. Decide on your budget, keep your cut standards high and then pick another one of the 4 C’s that most interests you (do you want the largest carat weight or are you concerned with having an icy-white appearance?) When in doubt, get advice from professionals. At James Allen, we’re non-commissioned and genuinely love to help customers find the perfect diamond ring for their tastes and within their budget! We may even help you find a similar appearing diamond for an even better price that you would not have originally considered! jamesallen.com

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entertainment

THE BOYS FAN FAVORITE SUPERHERO SATIRE WILL DROP THREE EPISODES ON PREMIERE DAY WITH NEW EPISODES EVERY FRIDAY THROUGH OCTOBER 9

mazon Prime Video today announced that the hit superhero satire The Boys will premiere the first three episodes of its second season Friday, September 4, 2020. New episodes will be available each Friday culminating in an epic season finale on October 9. The news comes on the heels of the cast coming together for a virtual event, hosted by season two guest star Patton Oswalt, that looked back on season one and also dropped hints for the upcoming season. The eight-episode Amazon Original series will be available on Prime Video in more than 200 territories around the world, and is produced by Amazon Studios and Sony Pictures Television Studios with Point Grey Pictures, Kripke Enterprises and Original Film. Today’s streaming event also contained a sneak preview of the new season, with the cast and executive producer Eric Kripke revealing the opening moments of season two. Creator and executive producer Eric Kripke says, “We cannot WAIT to show you season two. It’s crazier, stranger, more intense, more emotional. In fact, it’s too much — so the Surgeon General** has insisted we air the first three episodes on September 4, then air the remaining five episodes weekly after that. We wanted to give you time to freak out, digest, discuss, come down from the high, before we give you another dose. We only have your well-being in mind. Hope you love the season as much as we do. **No, he didn’t.” The even more intense, more insane season two finds The Boys on the run from the law, hunted by the Supes, and desperately trying to regroup and fight back against Vought. In hiding, Hughie (Jack Quaid), Mother’s Milk (Laz Alonso), Frenchie (Tomer Capon)

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BY ADAM KLUGER and Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara) try to adjust to a new normal, with Butcher (Karl Urban) nowhere to be found. Meanwhile, Starlight (Erin Moriarty) must navigate her place in The Seven as Homelander (Antony Starr) sets his sights on taking complete control. His power is threatened with the addition of Stormfront (Aya Cash), a social media-savvy new Supe, who has an agenda of her own. On top of that, the Supervillain threat takes center stage and makes waves as Vought seeks to capitalize on the nation’s paranoia. The Supes of The Seven also include Queen Maeve (Dominique McElligott), A-Train (Jessie T. Usher), The Deep (Chace Crawford) and Black Noir (Nathan Mitchell).

(Preacher), Original Film’s Neal H. Moritz (Prison Break) and Pavun Shetty (New Girl), as well as Phil Sgriccia, Craig Rosenberg, Rebecca Sonnenshine, Ken Levin and Jason Netter. Ennis and Robertson also co-executive produce along with Michael Saltzman. Prime members can stream The Boys exclusively via the Prime Video app for TVs, connected devices including Fire TV, mobile devices and online. Members can also download it to mobile devices for offline viewing at no additional cost to their membership. The series is a global release and available at amazon.com/TheBoys for Prime Video members in more than 200 countries and territories.

Recurring stars in season two include Claudia Doumit, Goran Visnijc, Malcolm Barrett, Colby Minifie, Shantel VanSanten, Cameron Crovetti, PJ Byrne, Laila Robbins and Giancarlo Esposito returning as Vought boss Stan Edgar, among others.

Customers who are not already Prime members can sign up for a free trial at www. amazon.com/prime. For a list of all Prime Video compatible devices, visit www.amazon. com/howtostream.

ABOUT THE BOYS: The Boys is a fun and irreverent take on what happens when superheroes – who are as popular as celebrities, as influential as politicians and as revered as Gods – abuse their superpowers rather than use them for good. It’s the powerless against the super powerful as The Boys continue on a heroic quest to expose the truth about The Seven, and Vought – the multi-billion dollar conglomerate that manages these superheroes and covers up all of their dirty secrets.

Follow The Boys: Facebook: Facebook.com/TheBoys Instagram: @TheBoysTV Twitter: @TheBoysTV Hashtag: #TheBoysTV

Based on The New York Times best-selling comic by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, The Boys was developed by showrunner Eric Kripke (Supernatural), who also serves as writer and executive producer. Joining Kripke as executive producers are Point Grey Pictures’ Seth Rogen (Preacher), Evan Goldberg (Preacher), and James Weaver

Amazon Studios Contacts: Akiva Griffith Akiva.Griffith@amazonstudios.com Kristen Hall Kristen.Hall@AmazonStudios.com Sony Pictures Television Contact: Scott Gorenstein Scott_Gorenstein@spe.sony.com

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taste

Da Ivo By Giovanni Fracassi

istorante Da Ivo was opened in 1976 by Ivo Natali from Tuscany. Located just a short walk from St Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Square, it serves superb cuisine in an elegant atmosphere making it a favourite haunt for both Venetians and members of the international jet set, from the world of politics to the world of show business. Among our most loyal clients

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IVO NATALI BY SEHRA

are: Principe Abdul Allah, George Clooney, Elton John / David Furnish, Sting, Harrison Ford, Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Nicolas Cage, Hugh Grant, Madonna, Paul Newman, Denzel Washington, Barbra Streisand, Jacques Chirac, Adnan Kasschogi, Anne Hathaway, Fiorello, Ewan McGregor, Clive Owen, Michael Stipe, Alex Corrado, Laetitia Casta, Jude Law, Natalie Portman, Naomi Campbell, Vladimir Doronin, Marcela e Victor

Hazan, Sharon e Ozzy Osburne, YOOYIDHYA / Red Bull, Vittorio Orio e Vincent Tummino, Vittoria Belvedere, Tony Bennett, Tom Cruise e Katie Holmes, Principe Mohamed Bin Al Quasimi, Principe di Croazia, Prince Sheikh M. Al Soleiman, Noura Al Sayeh e Sh Maibint Al Kalifa, Furio Bragagnolo (PastaZara), Roland Spogli (ambasciatore USA). Another feature that makes Da Ivo special is its location: being adjacent to a canal

allows customers to arrive directly by water taxi or gondola. Giovanni Fracassi, who has been a partner and director of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Da Ivoâ&#x20AC;? for many years, took over its management in late 2005 and has adhered to the successful formula of the previous manager. Between 1976 and 2009, the cook, Giorgina Mazzero, prepared Tuscan and Veneto specialities alongside other delicious Italian meat and fish dishes. Since 2010, the kitchen has been managed with passion and skill by Luciano Gambardella, a chef who has brought creativity and an original touch to dishes that are highly appreciated by the international jet set. The menu varies on a daily basis so that only seasonal ingredients are used; the wine list, compiled personally by Giovanni, offers a choice from the 150 most prestigious wine producers. This combination of quality, tradition and style satisfies all types of taste, each dish being adapted to the requirements of the individual Customer. Giovanni, Luciano and all the staff invite you to enjoy an unforgettable meal in one of the most elegant areas of Venice. Booking is recommended. ristorantedaivo.it/gallery/ July/August 2020 | 87

taste

Bake Back America A Conversation with Melissa Subin BY JADAN HORYN

020 is testing every fabric of society and the individuals that comprise it. Many are struggling and many are seeing the need and responding to it. Melissa Subin is one such person. She is a former professional tennis player who made the quarter rounds of the 1984 French Open a lifetime ago, before Covid-19, and before her newfound 24/7 calling to assist those impacted by it.Bake Back America began in April of this year and has served over 20,000+ meals to those in need. I spoke with Melissa about why and how she does it all. MS: We started Bake Back America to give back to our community and local first responders. We saw their need and we felt we had to respond. We began with baked goods and no-contact dropoff. People were so appreciative that it quickly expanded as people in our local community saw the impact and felt good for giving back.

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You expanded rapidly, how did you get to that scale? What were the challenges? MS: I was told many times not to expand too rapidly, but the need out there was so great. We quickly realized that not only first responders needed food but there was a real need to help those who lost their jobs and were homeless. So we began a new effort to supply food and groceries to those in need. To date, we have supplied over 25,000 meals and 1000s of pounds of groceries to over 1000 needy families. Another new effort we created was grant a wish list in which those in need let us know what necessities they need and we find them for our donors. 100s of bags of goods go out each week to fulfill the wishes of those in need. We then established adopt a family in which a needy family is “adopted” by a family and provides them with school supplies, winter coats and birthday presents among others. Another new effort is “Help a diabetic child”. In this effort, we pay for the medical care

and medicine for low-income diabetics that need help to be able to pay for their basic medical care. We also have “Craft with me” which we have volunteer-run arts and crafts classes for needy children via zoom. Finally, we have “Story time” in which we have a zoom reading of a story by our volunteer to young children and we provide cookies as they listen. There is so much more to come. Our biggest challenge is to keep up with all the demands for help from so many worthy causes. You are a full-time wife and mother, where do you find the time and strength to do this? MS: This is a team effort: both family and friends. It is in my nature, as a former professional tennis player when I put my mind to doing something I do it. Besides, people are hurting and in need. What is next for Bake Back America? MS: We want to continue to grow. Our nation’s and our communities’ needs have only grown since we began in April. We are looking to create a Family to Family sponsorship to create and foster bonds and share in the burden of this present time. Fundraising is crucial to this as most of our initiatives are done through direct donation of time, goods, or food to others. As an organization though, we also rely on the generosity of others so that we can continue to build the infrastructure to allow people to continue to do acts of kindness. How can people get involved? MS: First I encourage them to visit our website bakebackamerica.com, there are many different projects that people can get plugged into. First and foremost we are about acts of kindness. So there are numerous ways that people can show that. From baking to volunteering, to donating, to our Wish Lists we have our toolkits to assist you in helping your community. We love ideas and we are about highlighting those who do good. We have a special section on our website called Hero of the Day to showcase how one person’s act of kindness is unique, special, and appreciated. Ms. Subin’s story is a poignant reminder of the strength of our communities that we should all take to heart during this time of widespread hardship. Bake Back America is all about acts of kindness, and we can all afford to be kind right now. Maybe that’s the true path to COVID recovery. So, start big or start small. But start! July/August 2020 | 89

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Union Sushi and Steak SOUTHAMPTON’S NEW DINING SENSATION

fter months indoors, the Hamptons are getting the perfect spot to blow off steam. This summer, Ian Duke and partners David Hilty and Tuck Hardie, the owners of the ever-popular Southampton Social Club and Union Burger Bar, are unveiling the East End’s hottest new dining destination: Union Sushi and Steak, a modern take on the steakhouses of old.

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BY PETER ELSTON Situated in the historic Bowden Square property that formerly housed the famous Herb McArthy’s, Union Sushi & Steak manages to blend all of the warmth of a local village pub and the energy of a supper club from the days of old. The cuisine is brought to us by award-winning Chef’s Scott Kampf and Marc Fasciana of varied fame and tenures. The French American inspired menu features Dry aged steaks that are courtesy of Niman Ranch in Colorado and the assorted fresh sushi and sashimi menu is both enticing and inventive.

“We created Union Sushi & Steak because it’s what the people of Southampton are asking for,” Duke said. “Southampton has no year-round sushi restaurants and there is not a dedicated steakhouse. Right now, it’s a trek for a REAL roll-up-your-sleeves steakhouse dining experience.” Meanwhile, Duke’s award-winning burgers and fries spot, Union Burger Bar will continue to serve up American comfort food in the adjacent space.

As with the Southampton Social club, Union Sushi & Steak will have that “Supper Club” feeling, albeit, for the more sophisticated. Picture this; dinner starts to wrap up, the keys on the baby grand start to dance, the DJ’’s music starts to intoxicate you, and the cocktails set the tempo. Welcome to Union Steak & Sushi! Ian Duke is dedicated to making a difference in Southampton’s social and culinary scene. He is a partner in 6 restaurants, including: Prohibition, a live music bar, restaurant and lounge on New Yorks’ Upper West Side; 2 Lucky’s Famous Burgers located in Hell’s Kitchen and Chelsea in New York City; the prohibition-style speakeasy meets Hamptons’ glam destination, Southampton Social Club; The Baylander in Manhattan; Union Burger Bar; and most recently, Union Sushi & Steaks, which opens this summer at 40 Bowden Square in Southampton. Catering to a very diverse clientele, Duke’s restaurants are designed to be friendly for families, groups, locals, singles, as well as for parties and events. Union Sushi and Steak 40 Bowden Square, Southampton, NY 11968 www.dineatunion.com July/August 2020 | 91

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T-Bar Southampton BRINGING CLASSIC CUISINES WITH MODERN TWIST BACK TO THE EAST END BY PETER ELSTON

fter a successful 2019 Summer season, the team from T-Bar Steak and Lounge have made their return to Southampton. Just like its sister restaurant on New Yorkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Upper East Side, T-Bar Southampton offers guests outstanding cuisine in a casual yet elegant space, and the outdoor terrace and garden make it the quintessential location for evening cocktails on those warm summer evenings. The COVID-19 pandemic has created new challenges for restaurants, but T-Bar Southampton is ready to serve the best classic cuisines with a modern twist. T-Bar Southampton is following the strict CDC and Health department guidelines. To

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comply with these guidelines, T-Bar Southampton’s outside patio dining is adequately spaced to maintain social distancing, and for those still nervous going out to eat, T-Bar Southampton is also offering takeout options. With Tony Fortuna, Derek Axelrod, and Executive Chef Segundo Pelaez leading the way, T-Bar Southampton builds on the well-earned reputation of its New York City namesake. The menu features a wide range of dishes, ranging from well-cooked renditions of classics, to refined and inventive plates, providing the ultimate dining experience. Diners can begin their meal at T-Bar Southampton with the flavorful Zucchini Carpaccio made with

goat cheese, capers, basil, and mint or enjoy the classic Guacamole to split with the table. The restaurant also redefines the classic Kale Salad by adding seasonal apples and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, drizzled in a tangy chili-lime vinaigrette. Also available on its delectable appetizer menu are the popular Crispy Sushi, Yellowfin Tuna Tartar and Vietnamese Shrimp Roll. A meal at T-Bar Southampton would not be complete without ordering a favorite from The Steak Bar, which features an impressive range of superbly-cooked certified Black Angus cuts of beef including its Black Angus Porterhouse for two served with your choice of Steak Sauce, Béarnaise Sauce or Poivre Sauce. The menu also boasts numerous

other American classics including the signature Crusted Tuna served with soy, wasabi rémoulade and seaweed salad and the Chicken Milanese made with chopped Salad and lemon. Cap the evening off with irresistible desserts like the must-try Banana Parfait Mille Feuilles with coconut and caramel sauce or the decadent Strawberry Sundae served with shortcake, meringue, brandy, and cream. T-Bar Southampton 268 Elm Street Southampton, NY 11968 T: 631.283.0202 www.tbar2gosouthampton.com July/August 2020 | 93

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Vive la France!

Demarchelier Restaurant COMES TO GREENPORT LONG ISLAND

he family owned and operated French bistro, Demarchelier Restaurant, has arrived on the North Fork’s dining scene. The new incarnation of the Upper East Side classic is currently located at the AHEAD Americas 2020 Virtual Award-winning Menhaden Hotel in the charming Village of Greenport. Led by siblings Emily and Benjamin Demarchelier, this restaurant is a family affair that builds on the legacy of the Demarchelier family’s eatery in

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BY PETER ELSTON New York. Serving traditional French fare, popular dishes include the steak tartare appetizer, and the duck a l’orange and moules mariniere entrées. The menu is paired perfectly with a wide range of predominantly French wines. Since the original Demarchelier opened in 1978 it has worked to bring a little piece of France to New York. Every meal that leaves their kitchen expresses the soul of authentic French bistro fair. Demarchelier continues to be a family owned and family run restaurant. Their comfortable, colorful, warm, familial spirit makes them a neighborhood

fixture, ideal for a quick bite to eat, a romantic rendezvous or a meal with your family. Demarchelier will be opening their permanent Greenport location in Fall 2020, recreating the same ambiance as the Upper East Side, just a little more casual. Demarchelier looks to bring the North Fork of Long Island a taste of France! Demarchelier Restaurant at the Menhaden Hotel 207 Front Street, Greenport, NY 11944 www.demarchelierrestaurant.com Instagram: @demarchelierbistro | @demarchhotel

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The Baker House 1650

REMAINING THE PINNACLE OF SAFE, LUXURY HAMPTONS HOSPITALITY

ven in these different times, the vibrance and heartbeat of East Hampton hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t changed. Nestled right in the beautiful historic village you will find The Baker House 1650 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a 17th century English-inspired boutique Bed & breakfast. This award-winning property boasts the utmost levels in luxury and sumptuous amenities, which are available yearround. Incomparable to any other property, guests are welcomed by lush grounds, a stateof-the-art on-site spa, and fresh and lavish homemade breakfasts, served daily. Antonella Bertello, who is a celebrated East Hampton entrepreneur and owner of The

BY NORAH BRADFORD Baker House 1650 notes her constant enjoyment in curating the experience for the guests. She lovingly renovated the estate and grounds, which have been beautifully landscaped and feature centuries old trees and expansive gardens. The Inn, which had to totally re-envision the standards in which they provide accommodation, have adapted and quite brilliantly, in fact. How properties have adapted to the COVID era outside of your home may seem daunting for many, but the adaptation in how amenities are provided at the Baker House promises a truly relaxing stay. From the minute you enter, the warm staff greet you and you are walked through the touchless check-in process.

The Baker House, which also kindly asks guests to use masks in common areas and when they are unable to keep a safe social distance, have staff that are fully gloved, masked and who also wear protective shoe coverings when servicing a guest room. Guests are invited to enjoy either of the two outdoor pools in the warmer months enjoy as well as the coveted complimentary beach passes - which also come with another special perk besides the access to some of the top beaches in the country: plush Frette beach towels, umbrellas and luxury beach lounge chairs. The property which features sanitizer stations throughout and automatic dispensers for both soap and hand sanitizer is complimented by blooming white orchids and daily arrangements from their rose

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garden. A full breakfast is served daily by their personal chef. Guests will likely smell the fresh baked goods each morning and are given an array of delectable choices including fresh fruit and local farm-fresh eggs. Another unique touch to add to your stay is a visit to their honor-bar, which offers selection of the finest wines, liquors and beers. The Baker House 1650 has blended comfort, safety and exquisite style both in their rooms and common areas for a truly unique experience. Each guest room, which is uniquely decorated features touches in every corner. Seven rooms all perfectly appointed are spread out between the main house and include two large suites in the Baker Carriage House. Each featuring a private bath, curated mini bar selection and amenities by Frette and L’Occitane. The style in each room is unique and accentuated by its location in the house. The Huntting Room in the main house features hand-hewn beams and a woodburning fireplace facing the queen wooden frame bed with large windows overlooking the village green. The Gardiner Room is light and airy with a view of the gardens and is decorated in pale yellow Morris & Co. papers and fabrics and features a luxurious king bed, a woodburning fireplace and a two-person spa tub in the bathroom. In the rear of the property, you will find The Baker Carriage House. Highlighted in tones of sands and beige, it’s décor is reminiscent of the building’s original use such as stable and hay doors and a spiral staircase, features two exquisite suites. The Loft is a huge suite with a king size wooden sleigh bed, fireplace, surround sound, a separate living area with a fireplace and TV, a private terrace and a private bath with a two-person masseur tub. Whether you are looking for an extended respite, or are planning a special occasion, The Baker House 1650 is the idyllic extensive property for both indoor and outdoor functions. The onsite concierge will handle and coordinate with local vendors for catering, event planning and more. The year-round inn offers a truly unique experience no matter what the season, making it a one-of-a-kind, and safe destination. The Baker House 1650 181 Main Street East Hampton, NY 11937 (631)324-4081 www.bakerhouse1650.com 100 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

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QUICKFIRE INTERVIEW

Charlie Barton A ENGLISH SUMMER IN THE STUDIO UNDER THE STARS BY RACHEL VANCELET TE

an you speak about your daily routine in the art studio?

In the morning I run with the dogs. I am blessed to live in an idyllic place, so running across the parkland of Fonthill, down to the lake is a wonderful way to start the day. My studio is close to the village of Tisbury; it’s one of the most sought after places to live, not just for the location but it has a direct train to London & a 12th century barn where art gallery Messums Wiltshire is a creative hub for the local community,

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international artists & collectors. It’s a great place to catch up with friends, get a coffee & see a show. My studio is outside the village tucked away on the edge of a field so it’s private & peaceful. I cherish my solitude & often work in the evenings especially in summertime when I can have the roller door up the length of one side of my studio & I can bask in evening light & see the sun sink. What inspires you? I have grown up living close to Stonehenge; this ancient site & surrounding landscape gives me

a deep sense of connection to its primeval past. Horses have always been in my life so riding in all weather & changing seasons is exhilarating. Being around such sentient creatures is good for the soul; through horses, I learn much about myself. My late father was a navigator; his understanding & reliance on the stars filled me with awe. This wonder has never left me & although my inspiration comes more from a metaphysical than from an astronomical perspective, the beauty of the night sky never ceases to astonish me. Working with clients when a client approaches me with an idea

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything that seems on the surface to be misfortune may be a good fortune in disguise. And everything that seems good fortune on the surface may really be bad luck.â&#x20AC;? Charlie Barton

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for a commission, the shared creative journey we embark upon is exciting and I get a great sense of achievement when our mutual vision is realized. What have been your major influences throughout your career? Joseph Beuys most profoundly; his work addressed themes of transformation, regeneration & ecology which has had a significant & enduring impact on my work. He believed strongly in ecology & in the group consciousness of animals; we humans seem to have all but lost this as we’ve evolved technologically & scientifically. It’s 104 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

interesting that during this pandemic, a global group consciousness seems to have ignited. Anselm Kiefer was mentored by Beuys; Kiefer like Beuys deals with themes of destruction & creation, renewal, myth & cosmology. Both artists’ work stems from their recent history of war. I’m developing a body of work around the subject of war. Beuys & Kiefer ask the same fundamental universal questions: why are we here, why do we continue to behave to each other in this way & what is good & what is evil. Like Kiefer, I draw upon history paintings, such as the 19th panorama paintings, the brilliant John Singer Sargent’s painting Gassed was the last great realistic painting of war. I’m inspired by

the narrative quality of the Bayeux tapestry & by Picasso’s Guernica. Top physicist Fritjof Capra, when I read his books, it was “liftoff” for me & got me thinking about what defines life, about the continual exchange of matter & energy & the interconnectedness of mankind to nature & the cosmos. Bjork – she’s a physical embodiment of art I respect her risktaking, she’s never complacent, her music is bold & innovative, her lyrics are richly visual. She continually breaks new ground creatively. Georgia O’Keefe her desertscapes evoke the surface of Mars & the melancholic open landscapes she depicts express the stillness,

beauty & emptiness of Space. Another artist of the desert whose sublime work has impacted me is James Turrell. He compares the site of Roden Crater, (it’s on my Wish List) to Old Sarum, an ancient settlement and key part of an extensive sacred landscape close to where I live. He describes Old Sarum as a “handmade volcano” which has a similar formation to volcanic mound of Roden Crater. I admire Turrell’s vision to bring astronomical events & objects down into our personal space. He compares the topology of cyberspace, the territory in which we have moved our lives to the landscape of Space an environment with no left or right, no horizon & no gravity.

How do you know when a painting or artwork is complete?

sense of infinite infinity & the ever expanding universe.

I very rarely feel a painting is complete it’s only finished when it has to be. If it doesn’t leave the studio it’s likely to be completely reworked or destroyed.

I’m developing a series of photographic images I took in Afghanistan, based on the theme of war. I’m using advanced computer programs. The work is centered around a game of Buzkashi it’s like rugby on horseback with all the intensity and brutality of battle. I recall thinking how surreal it was to be watching a game of war in a country at war. The rider’s wear brightly colored padded jackets & pantalons reminiscent of the army of Genghis Khan. Some wear Russian tanker helmets pilfered or bartered from Russian conscripts from the era of the Soviet invasion. Others wear Nike trainers a nod to the recent American/ European occupation; this merging of historical

Do new technologies such as AI and/or new computers affect your current studio practice, and if so how and why? I’m making a series of digital prints from my paintings, one of which is featured in a music video for Robbie Williams. It’s a giclee print faced with perspex. The perspex gives the image a lustre & 3D quality which evokes a

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& contemporary references is a stark reminder that Afghanistan is the Graveyard of Empires. What would you say and/or advice would you give to your younger artist self? Whoopi Goldberg says something along the lines of “Stay out of your own way” which sums it up perfectly for me. In this time of world change, artists are known to spend a lot of time alone in their studios, 106 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com

what advice would you give to others who are currently undergoing time alone and isolation? I’m astounded by the ingenious, inventive & creative energy emerging during this crisis. Adversity causes suffering but it also brings forth big changes & accelerated innovation.

we will have during our lifetimes to retreat from the distractions of contemporary life. There seems to be a wave of change traveling through all of us, it’s a connective force, an awakening energy which reiterates the themes woven through my work, that of regeneration & metamorphosis; we, like the Universe, are in a continual state of change & transformation.

I see this time as an opportunity to reevaluate, recalibrate, reflect & replenish. It’s a unique & precious time as it’s likely to be the only chance

What exhibitions and upcoming projects have changed, been canceled and or come back to on plate for you since the COVID19 pandemic?

I had an exhibition in June 2020 in the medieval Church of St Cross, Winchester which was canceled due to Covid19. I was collaborating with the award winning vocal ensemble Sansara for a site specific installation in response to the ancient interior & their choral performance. This will now take place on18th - 20th June 2021. I am working with Sansara on an online project inspired by the words of artist William Blake, entitled ‘A Golden String.’ This is a multimedia piece using sound & visuals. It is an interactive format allowing the audience to produce their own version of the song. When life is back on an even keel we intend to produce a live performance. I am collaborating with astronaut Per Wimmer with a multimedia piece using light, sound & video to evoke a journey into the visceral experience of being in Space, conveying the mix of the transcendently magical & the deeply prosaic. Once the world has opened up again we will prepare to stage a live performance. Can you provide us with a quote of inspiration or thoughts on the world today? “There is a story of a farmer who used an old horse to till his fields. One day, the horse escaped into the hills and when the farmer’s neighbors sympathized with the old man over his bad luck, the farmer replied, “Bad luck? Good luck? Who knows?” A week later, the horse returned with a herd of horses from the hills and this time the neighbors congratulated the farmer on his good luck. His reply was, “Good luck? Bad luck? Who knows?” Then, when the farmer’s son was attempting to tame one of the wild horses, he fell off its back and broke his leg. Everyone thought this very bad luck. Not the farmer, whose only reaction was, “Bad luck? Good luck? Who knows?” Some weeks later, the army marched into the village and conscripted every able bodied youth they found there. When they saw the farmer’s son with his broken leg, they let him off. Now was that good luck or bad luck? Who knows? Everything that seems on the surface to be misfortune may be a good fortune in disguise. And everything that seems good fortune on the surface may really be bad luck.” Charlie Barton Quickfire Tips: Artist Website: www.charliebarton.com Instagram for more @rvancelette with insider pictures and stories. July/August 2020 | 107

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QUICKFIRE ARTIST INTERVIEW

Swedish Artist Martin Ålund ENGAGING IN THE PAINTERLY PROCESS DURING COVID19 BY RACHEL VANCELET TE Can you speak about your daily routine in the art studio? Much of it has to do with beating around the bush, of procrastinating. One part of me just wants to paint, while another part of me seems to want to do everything to avoid it. I often set aside a painting so that I see it in the corner of my eye. Something unexpected happens then, and the invisible becomes visible. When I later start painting, I work intensively as if in a trance. My whole body is engaged in the painterly process. I often paint with rags and my hands. The work process itself alternates between delving into and getting lost in the painting, and then stopping short to observe. Thoughts regarding painting and art are always present in the back of my mind. But it is always crucial to avoid completing a work process beforehand in one’s head. The interesting part is embarking on the unknown, and to be surprised and curious. What inspires you? The gaze itself. Observing the act of observing. It’s about distancing oneself on a meta-level, and thereby becoming more present and encounter inspiration in the now. All art, old and new, inspires me. I spend a lot of time looking at/consuming art. It is as if engaging in a timeless eternal communication between people. Analytic discussions with colleagues inspire me. Play and improvisation inspires me. Such as playing music with my band Hybris Healers. But above all, I am inspired by my own art – it is as though it always tries to hide something from me that I have to look for. As

soon as I find it, something new reveals itself temporarily, only to hide itself again. It’s like a game of hide-and-seek. At the moment, I am working with the theme Otherworld that deals with the interface between different realities. Where does the insanity, the imagination, and the irrational begin and end? How can one move between the different realities and find experiences, as well as messages, that one alternates between? I think of Alice in Wonderland, shamanism, alchemy, Orpheus and Eurydice as well as romantic myths of the artist as magician, madman and messenger. I also often think of how the magic and the irrational can both be a means to escape, and a way to grasp the unfathomable. Otherworld is a theme I began working with two years ago, when I worked in Paris, and in these difficult times it looks as though this theme is more relevant than ever. Otherworld is like a harbinger. Art often bears a foreboding quality. When I paint, I allow the haphazard and articulation to operate in sync. Eventually, this allows for increasingly complex worlds to emerge that I must respond to. Right now, I’m working on a series of paintings that I call The Bipolar Suite that stem from the Otherworld theme. This has to with juxtaposing extremes through the use of diptychs and creating a charge and establishing a contact. It is like creating energy, an interaction where one touches upon both origin and downfall at the same time.

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Lately, I have been especially fascinated by the artists Helen Frankenthaler, Carl Fredric Hill and Philip Guston. It is extremely exciting when other artists unexpectedly pop up like spectres in one’s studio. They become conversation partners constantly looking over one’s shoulder. Everything is dialogue. Everything in existence comes down to dialogues and relationships. What have been your major influences throughout your career? Art, both historic and contemporary. Painting, drawing, photography, video art, installations, sculpture, performance, etc. I have also been inspired by film, music and literature. Andrei Tarkovsky’s films and the Miles Davis’s electric period of the early 70s have accompanied me for years. Their expressions are like layer upon layer of articulation that follow an oscillating pulse like a cosmic heart of sorts. I have also been influenced by existential and psychological themes; my own self in relation to the world, life, death and love. Structural and political issues have inspired me as well: how mankind has, throughout history, had to struggle for survival and dignity against oppressive powers. How do you know when a painting or artwork is complete? It is as though everything goes quiet in the studio. When a painting or artwork goes quiet, I usually put it away for a while, only to bring it out again later and listen with my eyes. At times I can still hear a meek little whine, which tells me I’m not done yet. But when I don’t hear the whine, that is when I find myself in harmony with the piece. It’s a bit like tuning a string instrument: the vibrations reach the same wavelength. A sense of balance is established in the dynamics. The movement leads away from the artwork. And at that point, the piece is ready to leave the studio and enter the exhibition space.

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Do new technologies such as AI and/or new computers affect your current studio practice, and if so how and why? I have long worked with electronic image rendering – everything from video art on VHS to computer-manipulated image editing. Electronic/ digital images create an interesting field of tension in the encounter with analog images. They can heighten an awareness of the analog image. I have also long worked with presenting art on the Internet. There is a democratic practice involved in this – an issue concerning accessibility and representation. Everyone can gain access. Everything can be free. The Internet and new technologies bear a huge potential in broadening, deepening and making culture accessible, in connecting humanity. But these tools are also problematic: analog art cannot be replaced by virtual environments, nor is that the point. Digital and virtual art constitute media with principles of their own. The digital reality is also problematic – one stands a risk of losing something important. One can be lured into viewing the world and existence as replaceable. But IRL, something unique arises. The image of a painting, for example, is not a painting – it is an image of a painting. Obvious as that might be, it seems easily forgotten. What would you say and/or advice would you give to your younger artist self? I constantly talk with, and am inspired by my younger self. So it would more be a question of a dialogue, a mutual exchange. I work a lot with younger artists and enjoy the dynamics that arise between curiosity, challenges, experiences, dreams and fantasies. Here are some words of advice I would try to offer myself as a young artist: keep doing what you’re doing. Don’t be nervous about not “succeeding”. Whatever happens, the most important thing is to feel inspired in the studio. In this time of world change, artists spend a lot of time alone in their studios. What advice would you give to others who are currently undergoing time alone and isolation? What can this catastrophe offer us as human beings? Beyond the Dance of Death and Anthropocene, we must find a cure for our human hubris. Corona is a reaction of sorts to a systemic dystopia. I have often returned to dystopia in my art. Such as the piece 1:1 that is based on Landscape with the Fall of Icarus by July/August 2020 | 113

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Pieter Bruegel the Elder. We live in a world that seems to be accelerating towards its own downfall. Social and ecological responsibility are intimately linked. A dialogue and interaction between naturalism and abstraction, dystopia and utopia, ecology and psychology is highly relevant. We are going through a collective global trauma. Everyone is affected and process fear in their own ways. We must not forget what is truly important: to take care of one another and think of those who are most vulnerable. I believe that it is in times like these that we are forced to become less sentimental and think in practical terms in ways that can seem unfamiliar, while at the same time, the magical and irrational also becomes more important. This is clear when looking back at the history of mankind, and specifically catastrophic times. Even within the magical and irrational, one must also choose a path: not pursue contexts that are excluding, egocentric and isolating, but instead explore ways of coming closer to each other as human beings and endure the difficult and unfathomable that we are faced with. Here, art can show us the way. Through its multi-faceted expression, art has the ability to validate the contradictory and unfathomable in a healing manner. Artists and other art practitioners have in many ways also long worked in self-isolation and in intentional alienation. The artistic practice has a lot to offer in times like these. Here are some words of advice I have to offer: be curious, and be curious as to why you are not curious. And here is some practical advice I would give: acquire a space, a space which is just yours, regardless of how small. Acquire at least one tool, an instrument, and create some sort of continuity in your work. And be tolerant towards yourself – listen to your own way of working, examine, and play. If this becomes too much of a challenge, try to recall how exciting it could be to fantasize as a child. What exhibitions and upcoming projects have changed, been canceled and or come back to the plate for you since the COVID19 pandemic? Due to the difficult circumstances surrounding Corona, anything is possible. Certain things are postponed, other things remained scheduled as planned awaiting further developments.

I have an upcoming solo exhibition of my new works at Wadström Tönnheim Gallery in Marbella, Spain this autumn. I’m very excited about it. I have an excellent collaboration with the gallerist Mattias Tönnheim, who is doing a great job. If the exhibition needs to be postponed due to the Coronacrisis, we’ll simply reschedule it.

involved in the International artist collective, Go Go Collective, that was established at Cites Des Artes in Paris in 2018. I believe that society has a lot to learn from artistic collaborations and the unique ability of artists to execute projects outside of the normal commercial systems. Not least in the wake of the Corona crisis. COVID19 Update since original interview:

I am in the process of curating as well as participating in a very exciting International group exhibition that we have for the time being postponed until the fall. It is called Heat/Energy, and I am curating together with Torbjörn Johansson and Jonas Ellerström. Participating artists span a broad field of both young and old, both well-established artists and art students. The exhibition touches upon an exceptionally current theme – that humanity needs more than energy, water and food to survive. Art and poetry are also vital. The exhibition will take place at Kummelholmen, an extremely exciting exhibition venue, and an old power plant in the suburbs of Stockholm, that is run on a nonprofit basis. In 2021, the exhibition Heat/Energy will continue on to an amazingly beautiful exhibition venue, Körsbärsgården on the island of Gotland, Sweden. I also work with art projects in the public space, which is very challenging in these times. How should one relate to the collective course of events we are going through? The public space has changed – city streets currently lie empty, the public space has become dangerous in a new way and, at the same time, new communities have emerged. The market is reeling. How will this affect the preconditions, possibilities and limitations of art in the public space? Since way before the Corona crisis, I have also been involved with a project that seems tailor-made for these times of isolation. I create music and videos together with my friend and colleague Magnus Engstedt, who lives in Norway. We send sound files and film material to each other, work each in our own separate spaces and communicate online through Facetime. Working remotely via the Internet allows for an eradication of physical distance. It will be interesting to see how artistic collaborations will work during and after these Corona times. I am the Chairman of the Swedish Artists’ Association that owns a Venetian palace in Stockholm. I am also

I have recently participated in new exhibitions related to the Covid-19 situation. The group shows Isolation | Communication at Färgfabriken, Stockholm, Open Window, Stockholm and Offspring, Sätra forest. I have an upcoming solo exhibition at Wadström Tönnheim Gallery in Marbella and will participate in ESTAMPA Art Fair, Madrid Nov. 2020.I am curating as well as participating in a very exciting International group exhibition Heat/Energy that is postponed until spring 2021. The exhibition will take place at Kummelholmen, an extremely exciting exhibition venue, and old power plant in the suburbs of Stockholm and after that at Körsbärsgården, a wonderful exhibition venue at the island Gotland, Sweden. If you can provide a quote of inspiration or thoughts on the world today? Be curious, and be kind to your fellow human beings, and remember that this isn’t the first time mankind has endured a catastrophe and survived.

Quickfire Tips: Artist Website: http://www.martinalund.com Instagram @rvancelette for more insider stories and tips “I started to work with Martin Ålund in 2015 and it’s been a fascinating experience and intriguing pleasure so far. Martin never stops to explore in his own playful, but at the same time painful, way when he pushes himself forward and beyond his comfort zone to break new ground and create. I see influences from old masters such as Caspar David Fredrich and August Strindberg in some of Martins intense neo-punk disruptive landscape paintings.” Mattias Tönnheim, director and owner Wadström Tönnheim Gallery.

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Old Glory By Gary Kaleda

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HAMPTONS FLASHBACK A LOOK BACK AT THE HOTTEST EVENTS OF SUMMER 2019 IN THE HAMPTONS By Clara Morgan

The Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons 13th Annual GET WILD! Summer Gala at Joan and Bernard Carl’s estate in Southampton, NY: Beth Ostrosky Stern ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com

Southampton Social Club hosted a star-studded Northwell Health’s first Summer Hamptons Summer Soirée, Southampton, NY: Ian Duke, Evening (SHE) produced by Larry Scott Camille Kostek ©Dave Warren of Lawrence Scott Events with a musical performance by Alexa Ray Joel, Water Mill, NY: Alexa Ray Joel, Rosanna Scotto ©Patrick McMullan

The 15th Annual Hamptons Happening Honored Luminaries In Cuisine, Business, and Fashion, and Raised $450,000 To Benefit The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation: Caly Bevier, Nicole Miller ©Rob Rich/ SocietyAllure.com

Ann Liguori hosted her 21st Annual Ann Liguori Foundation Charity Golf Classic at Westhampton Country Club, benefitting cancer research, prevention and care: Ann Liguori ©Daniel Gonzalez Photography

Larry Scott of Lawrence Scott Events produced a private party on the beach in Montauk with John Legend, Montauk, NY ©Getty Images

Philanthropist Lizzie Asher co-hosted the Parrish Art Museum’s Annual Midsummer After Party, Southampton, NY: Lizzie Asher, Casey Kohlberg, Mercedes de Guardiola, Christina Senia, Danielle Hankin ©Parrish Art Museum

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Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation 10th Annual Unconditional Love Gala at Under the Tents at Wickapogue & Old Town Roads, Southampton, NY: Jean Shafiroff, Greg D’Elia, Beth Ostrosky Stern and Katie McEntee ©Patrick McMullan

The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) Annual Gala in the Hamptons took place at the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, NY: Bryan Adams, Michael Milken ©Patrick McMullan

5 5 E 5 4TH ST • NEW YO RK , N EW YO RK • M .M E/N ERAIN YC • (21 2) 759-5554

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NEW YORK FLASHBACK A LOOK BACK AT THE HOTTEST EVENTS OF 2019 IN NEW YORK CITY By Clara Morgan

RHONY Star Sonja Morgan introduced Sonja by Sonja Morgan at New York Fashion Week 2019: Sonja Morgan with Model Beth Chasteen ©Norman Issacs

Pamela Morgan of Flirting with Flavors OneWoman Cabaret show at the Laurie Beechman Theatre, NYC: Ramona Singer, Pamela Morgan ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com

The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) hosted Katharine McPhee, David Foster at PCF’s New their 2019 New York Dinner at the Restaurant York Dinner at the Restaurant Daniel Daniel. with a special guest performance by ©Patrick McMullan Jamie Foxx: Jamie Foxx and his band performing ©BFA

Young Friends Steering Committee of Save Venice led by philanthropist and activist Lizzie Asher, cocktail reception in honor of H.R.H. Prince Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia, Prince of Venice: Anthony Schembri, Joseph B. Giminaro, Lizzie Asher, Prince Emanuele Filiberto di Savoia ©BFA

The American Cancer Society hosted the 14th Annual Taste of Hope at the Metropolitan Pavilion, NYC: Chris Wragge ©Hideki Aono

Decoration & Design Building’s Market Week 2019, Design Confidential presented by Vanguards & Visionaries, D&D Building, NYC: Alexa Hampton, Sophie Donelson, Carson Kressley, Sara Story, Drew McGukin ©Kitty Dadi

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Manhattan School of Music Celebrated 100 Years with Gala Concert at Carnegie Hall Followed by Dinner at The Onyx Room, NYC: Kelly Hall-Tompkins, Alec Baldwin ©Anna Yatskevich

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