MARCH 2019
METROPOLITANmagazineny.com
LUXURY MAGAZINE
HOLDING COURT WITH
JUDGE MARILYN MILIAN $20.00 USD
Fashion | Luxury | Profiles | Features | Shopping | Travel | Art | Design | Auto | Food | Health
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Tre jewelry by Carolyn Melillo Modeled by daughter Ellis Melillo March 2019 | 3
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CONTENTS MARCH 2019 TASTE 18 Russian Samovar 19 Demarchelier
FASHION 20 New York Fashion Week 28 Avalon Phillips 34 Amanda Sommers 40 Christian Siriano 44 Eugenia Kuzmina 46 AMIDAH 48 Morgan Clifford’s Faux-Fur
COVER
52 MARILYN MILIAN
JETSET
60 Bahamian Adventure 66 La Minerva Capri 72 Jetset Hotspots in the City of Angels 74 The Shelbourne Distinguished Luxury
23 Hot Summer Cool Suits
CONTENTS 77
MARCH 2019
PROFILE
76 Gillian Greene 78 Cathlene Miner 80 Peter J. Curti 82 Stephen Rudin 84 Kimberly Guilfoyle 86 Sara Brooke 87 Alissa Carpenter 88 Talyn Fiore 89 The Ultimate MoroccanAdventure
ARTFORM
90 Kelly Styne 92 Bentley Meeker 96 Christopher Makos Magic 98 Gallerist Wendy Fritz 100 Madame Paulette 102 Hong Kong 103 A Sense of Place 104 Izabela Gola 106 Terri Kahan 107 Creative Culture
ENTERTAINMENT 108 SohoMuse 112 Long Island Univ.
SOCIETY
114 The European Group Travel Awards 116 Spotlight 118 Palm Beach Social Scene 119 LA Social Scene 120 NY Charity Scene
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Publisher Chase Backer Editor-in-Chief Adam Kluger Assistant Editor Willy Nichter Copy Editor Sean Buttimer Director of Marketing-NYC Jaime Backer Lifestyle Editor Elizabeth Langevin Cover Editor Adam Kluger, Lynn Radice Features Editor Melissa Clark Luxury Editor Stephanie L. Howitt Fashion Photographer Matt Licari Profiles Editor Alexandra Appino-Tabone Social Editor Clara Morgan Food Editor Andrea Correale Nutrition Editor Lindsay Brustein Rosen, M.S., R.D., CDN. Gold Coast Writer Monica Randall Digital Media Director Nancy Molina Contributors Rachel Vancelette, D.D. Rice, Norah Bradford, 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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Š 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 magazine’s right to edit.
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
Justice consists not in being neutral between right and wrong, but in finding out the right and upholding it, wherever found, against the wrong. – Theodore Roosevelt New Yorkers are never shy to voice their opinions, whether they are giving a Tony Award winning show a standing ovation on Broadway, offering a Bronx cheer to an incompetent elected official, or screaming at an inconsiderate neighbor who just swiped “their” parking space. New Yorkers tell it to you straight, often in elegant four letter words. New Yorkers like to keep it real just like this month’s cover star, Judge Marilyn Milian of the hit TV show The People’s Court. Judge Marilyn is beautiful and charming in person but you better not get on her bad side. As many a TV defendant or plaintiff has discovered, Judge Marilyn is not afraid to correct anyone in her courtroom who breaks her rules. As the first Latina Television Court Show Judge, Milian takes her job seriously to rule properly and fairly and to educate viewers on the law. Judge Milian worked from 1984 to 1994 as an Assistant State Attorney for the Dade County State Attorney’s Office (former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, the then District Attorney for Dade County, hired her for the position). She was appointed to the Miami Circuit Court by Florida Governor Jeb Bush in 1999, where she served in the Criminal Division. Judge Marilyn is the fourth judge in succession for The People’s Court but the first female judge presiding on the show. As always, we are so honored to bring our readers new insights on today’s newsmakers, thought leaders, businesses and brands making a difference in the world. Our golden rule is to endeavor to inform, educate and delight you!
Chase Backer Publisher, Metropolitan/25A
Photograph by Jill Lotenberg
EDITOR’S NOTE
“We ask justice, we ask equality, we ask that all the civil and political rights that belong to citizens of the United States, be guaranteed to us and our daughters forever.” -Susan B. Anthony International Women’s Day is celebrated every March 8th around the world as a day to honor women and women’s rights. I am a very proud fraternal twin. My twin sister Allison, a professor at Stanford Business School, has always been my best friend and soul-mate. My wise older sister Jane and my loving and supportive mom Barbara, have also been life-long role-models to me. These three brilliant women have taught me about strength, perseverance, compassion, courage and love. All three have created a template for me to better understand what it means to share unconditional love and strive for greatness. I would be totally lost without these incredible women. This month Metropolitan puts the spotlight on some other fantastic and inspirational women. Our cover story, Judge Marilyn Milian, is one of the most popular stars on TV, doling out justice on the People’s Court as the first Latina arbitrator to preside over a Court Show. We learn much more about what inspired political power-player Kimberly Guilfoyle to pursue greatness at a young age. We also profile some talented women creating heat in the art world, including art advisor Terri Kahan, curator/artist Izabela Gola and pop artist Kelly Styne. Avalon, Amanda Sommers and Eugenia provide awe-inspiring pictorials while the indomitable and trend-setting Metropolitan Magazine Fashion Crew, led by Jaime & Jillian Backer, features editor extraordinaire Melissa Clark & social media director Nancy Molina, expertly canvas New York Fashion Week! Wow! Marilyn Monroe said it best when she opined, “Women who seek to be equal to men lack ambition.” Cheers to all the amazing people in our life but especially to the women who inspire all of us and lead us and teach us by example on how to be truly great and to find our better angels. Cheers! Adam Kluger Editor in Chief, Metropolitan/25A
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Russian Samovar COME FOR AUTHENTIC RUSSIAN CUISINE, STAY FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT BY HARRY BRADS
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ussia Samovar, the elegant, 100-seat eatery in the heart of the theater district, has been distinguishing itself as one of New York’s premier nightspots for over three decades. Founded in 1986 and previously co-owned by ballet legend, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Nobel Prize winner for poetry, Joseph Brodsky, its 19th-century feel, complete with Russian folk prints and green and red shades, has become an epicurean epicenter for discerning patrons from every walk of life, along with many famous Russian poets and writers who keep coming back for an exceptional dining experience second to none. Russian Samovar is well-known for its 25 flavored vodkas, including ginger, horseradish, lemon, and cranberry along with mouthwatering appetizers. Selections range from Beluga and Ostera caviar, Blini (crepes) filled with salmon or caviar, the Assorted Fish Platter (in-house cured Salmon Gravlax with dill, Smoked Atlantic Salmon and Smoked Butterfish), Vol-au-Vent (a wild mushroom puff pastry), traditional Borscht, and Pelmeni Stroganoff (veal and chicken dumplings with sirloin tips in a creamy mushroom sauce). The restaurant also serves a theater prefixe menu, available Monday through Friday until 7pm. The ideal spot before or after a show, you can get a 10% discount on all food items simply by presenting your ticket from any Broadway show. These
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include appetizers like Olivier Salad, and Eggplant Caviar; entrées such as Roasted Duck, and Beef Stroganoff, and a choice of Smetannik Cake or Ice Cream for dessert. You can also enjoy an expertly prepared pre-dinner cocktail at the bar such as the Russian Beauty, featuring raspberry puree and crisp Prosecco or a martini made with any flavor of Russian Samovar’s houseinfused vodkas. Currently owned by Roman Kaplan and managed by his daughter Vlada Von Shats and her two sons, another major draw of Russian Samovar’s 256 West 52nd Street location is its deeply entrenched show business roots. Besides currently being a mecca for Russian writers and poets, it was also the former site of Jilly’s—the eponymous celebrity watering hole once owned by Frank Sinatra’s friend and former bodyguard, Jilly Rizzo. In fact, the Chairman of the Board held many personal concerts there, along with spending time with the Rat Pack and playing countless games of baccarat. These days, this tradition continues thanks to singers like Liza Minnelli and Cyndi Lauper who still occasionally drop in for an impromptu performance. Since Russian Samovar also attracts many musicians, actors and writers from Russia and all over the world, a classically trained pianist performs nightly and poetry readings held throughout the year. russiansamovar.com
Demarchelier UPPER EAST SIDE’S AUTHENTIC FRENCH BISTRO EXPERIENCE BY PETER ELSTON
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uthentic French Bistro Demarchelier, owned by artist Eric Demarchelier (brother of famed fashion photographer Patrick Demarchelier), celebrated its 25-year anniversary in 2017. Eric opened the very first location of his eponymous restaurant the same year he first moved to New York City, in 1978. After having moved from its original location on Lexington Avenue, Demarchelier re-opened in 1992 on 86th street, still frequented by its regular diners. More bourgeois than bohemian, Demarchelier’s lively and cozy locale also showcases a rotating collection of paintings by the owner. Demarchelier brings a little piece of France to New York City. Every meal that leaves its kitchen aims to capture the essence of authentic French bistro fair. The family owned and run Upper East Side restaurant radiates a comfortable, colorful, warm and familial spirit that has made it a neighborhood fixture for a quarter-century. Ideal for a quick bite to eat, a romantic rendezvous, or a simple family
meal. The traditional French menu is paired perfectly with a wide range of predominantly French wines. Diners will find many familiar dishes on the classic bistro fare menu, which are coupled with daily organic selections. Demarchelier provides an array of all natural, grass-fed, organic options brought directly from nearby farms, which are sure to suit even the most health-conscious diner. Signature dishes include the Moules Mariniere au Vin Blanc served in a rich broth; Duck Confit served over a hearty mix of tomato and tarragon scented flageolets; and Sole Meuniere, flour covered and pan-fried in butter, accompanied by a grilled lemon half and wedges of boiled potato, tossed in a mix of butter and chives. Demarchelier’s decadent dessert menu features flavorful dishes such as Tarte Fine Au Pommes, a flaky tart filled with warm apples and served with fresh vanilla ice cream; and Crepe Suzette, a classic French pancake drizzled with Grand Marnier.
On the weekends, diners can enjoy a classic French a la carte brunch. Dishes include Organic Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise sauce served with a choice of ham or salmon; Pancakes served with maple syrup and a choice of blueberries; and Steak Tartare with a side of pommes frites. Born and raised in Normandy, Eric Demarchelier has received additional recognition as a painter. Eric’s artistic style encompasses figurative, geometric abstraction and abstract expressionism, as well as landscape and portrait painting. He began painting in the 1990s and has been rotating the art exhibited in the restaurant every year since. Aside from the rotating artwork, Demarchelier has remained consistent throughout the years, both in terms of ambiance and menu, though part of the responsibility of running the restaurant has been pledged to Eric’s daughter Emily Demarchelier. demarchelierrestaurant.com
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NEW YORK FASHION WEEK BY MELISSA CLARK
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his year we lost the crème de la crème of fashion. Karl Lagerfeld passed away a few days right after New York fashion week concluded. Not only was Mr. Lagerfeld the creative director of his brand, but he was also well-known for his work with Chanel and Fendi. Lagerfeld’s genius even led to a collaboration with Rolls Royce. His exhibit “A Different View” revealed a passion for fashion and automobiles. Lagerfeld once told Rolls Royce, “This approach serves me more than I had ever thought possible in my view of reality. Each of my shots of the Rolls-Royce is the abstract representation of a concrete
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reality. The technical medium of photography is a welcome means for my artistic work, creating my different view.� The winter months can be cruel with the frigid weather; however, the Runways warm our hearts with the latest trends and fashions. Designers such as JYU RI RI, Jisu Lim, Ron Ramos, Quaint, Afffair, and the unique style of Pheren Couture showed off their 2019 Spring / Summer collections. Thank you to our resident fashion experts Jaime & Jillian Backer, and our director of social media Nancy Molina. Head over to www.metmagny.com for links to Metropolitan’s Instagram/Facebook/ Twitter.
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yu Ri Ri’s 2019 FW collection is titled “EGOFRIENDLY”. It will represent the opposition from family in order to pursue fashion, she respects women who fight for what they want. “EGO-FRIENDLY” is an ode to the strong-willed women, and is meant to be a gear for the warriors in their daily lives. However, she does not “gear” in harsh way. She serves it with materials like Mohair, Velvet, Embroidery, ExtraFine wool. It is designed to serve female warriors’ self-esteem, so that they can be ready for any struggle everyday.
The “Flats”, Harbour Island
JI SU LIM
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he collection of Jisu Lim is conceptual; reflecting the designer’s own interpretation of every object within a concept with modern, edgy and trendy aesthetic. “My collection is inspired by the ‘Post No Bill’ sign around construction area. This sign is the most familiar thing that I am exposed to in my daily life, as a New Yorker.” says the designer. “The phrase refers to many cities’ laws which forbid the posting of handbills, or any type of advertisement on the construction walls in order to keep the walls clean. However, I always think it is such an irony that the construction walls itself ruin the beauty of this city.” Jisu Lim’s collection is about recreation, circulation, and the beauty inside of the ugliness.
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esigner, Ron Ramos, connected his aesthetic of luxury and tailoring by playing with the idea of soft and hard. The collection used an opposition of heavy and light textiles from leather to georgette to crepe to crepe back satin, resulting in sultry-luxe workwear that transitions from day to night. For this FW19 collection, the pieces are interchangeable, additive, and layered amongst the collection itself or from within your existing closet. The ideologies of this collection genuinely convey the designer‘s principle of dressing; embodying effortless luxury and strength.
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heren Couture A/W19 collection is entirely inspired by nature and the Royal palace interior. This collection is called LACRIMOSA. Most of this entire collection used lace, crystals, pearls, metal, 24k gold leaves and tulle. The headdresses and accessories will be a cross culture between European and Indonesian Majapahit Empire. The colors will be gold, green, and dark red.
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AFFAIR
FFAIR was the show by designer Rufat Ismayilov also held at Industria Studios. The theme of the show was “Power of Fire from The Land of Fire” that featured elegant Haute Couture creations made in “The Land of Fire”, Azerbaijan. The collection had some stunning pieces with plunging necklines, detailed embellishments, statement bejeweled shoulder pads and sexy cut-outs. Affair’s collection also had a variety of luxurious fabrics such as silk, crepe chiffon as well as semi-precious gemstones in natural tones. Three of my favorite pieces from the collection are as follows:
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ina D. Quantas was born in Milan and raised in Shanghai. As a teenager being raised in the U.S., her interests led to a curiosity and desire to redefine what it means to dress feminine while not losing one’s individuality. Combining classic touches with modern aesthetics, the A/W 2019 collection featured strong looks with the urban woman in mind.
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Avalon Phillips Photographer Tima Blur Makeup artist The Tati Thunder Model Avalon Phillips -Wolff management Photographer & retoucher Tima Blur
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Amanda Sommers
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Christian Siriano BRAVO’S PROJECT RUNWAY IN STYLE BY RACHEL VANCELET TE
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hristian Siriano, who exploded into the public consciousness at age 22, is now at the pinnacle of the design world celebrating the launch of Bravo’s Project runway this month! Siriano mentors the new fresh talent of the show, and the celebrity designer known for dressing Whoopi Goldberg, Laverne Cox, Molly Shannon, Meg Ryan, Angelina Jolie and more had amazing success of his book, Dresses to Dream About, a collaboration with noted photographer Brad Walsh, revealing his design process start to finish. The book takes the reader from simple sketches through his most private studio practices and amazing designs. This master craftsman artistically creates
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sumptuous couture designs weaving fantasy, old Hollywood glamour and the desire to dress women of all shapes, sizes and social status in his work. It has put him at the top of every woman’s fashion wish list worldwide, movie stars and homemakers alike. After studying in his younger years with the likes of Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood, his collections have now added him to the rarified list of top designers past and present. No matter what age or body type, he will dress you.
an ‘all size’ inclusive designer in his runway casting. Each runway show he also adds some celebrities to walk on his runways such as Selma Blair who has walked in a stunning sultry skin-tight catsuit and fur for his 10th-anniversary catwalk for the celebration.
Not many designers can say they have dressed the likes of Lady Gaga, Kate Perry, Rihanna, Kate Hudson and more! Siriano dressed Whoopi Goldberg for the Tony Awards in 2008, and she among the fan followers who praise him for being
Art and fashion have had a relationship for many generations, what or who have influenced you over the years? CS: I’m inspired by Art every day. There are so many new young artists I love and whom have
Christian sat down for a rare intimate following the launch of his popular book for an interview discussing art + fashion influences, desires and dreams:
inspired even some of my collections. I get inspired by photographs, paintings, architecture, interiors, furniture and really they are all art in their own way. Your book Dresses to Dream About, can you speak to how long it took you to execute the book, process for the book and what one thing you wish for the reader to remember? CS: It took about a year or so to come together. It was hard to choose what pieces I wanted to showcase, and the timing was hard because I wanted to add so much more. The entire book was done so beautifully. I really wanted to highlight my work over the last 10 years and really show people what goes into making clothes from sketch to finished piece. I think that’s the magic March 2019 | 41
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of fashion, the transformation is exciting to see. I hope when everyone opens the book up they fall into a dream-like world and escape for a few minutes. Your inclusivity and breaking barriers in the fashion world has been a great creative force in making change, can you speak to your message on championing diversity? CS: I think we need to empower women who are buying our clothes. They should be able to shop no matter what size, color, where they came from who cares. If they love a dress we should offer it to them. Getting dressed should be the fun and exciting part of the day not the hard part. So I’m trying to prove that it can be done because I’m doing it and will continue to do it and hope others follow along. How has your fashion evolved since your very first fashion show?
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CS: I hope I have evolved. As my company has grown, we are able to do so much more than I was able to do in the beginning. But still some of my favorite pieces are from early shows, and they were just simply overlooked because I was a young brand. I think clothes evolves every day because the customer is changing every day. Right now fashion is so accessible and in your face all the time. So I try to create things that are dramatic and emotional but still wearable for my customer. She is the driving force and I like to keep her guessing but keep her happy.
it perfection. Don’t try too many things at a time, that is often when things get lost.
What would you say to a young designer starting out fashion? CS: Find out what you really love about fashion first, do you really want to be a designer is always my question? Do you love making clothes because if not there are so many other professions in the industry that are great! But if you love making clothes then find the style you love and really make
As a fashion leader what future direction do you see fashion heading? CS: It is hard to say where fashion is going. I know it’s becoming more diverse than ever and I hope it’s returning back to the days of glamour and experimentation. That is what I love!
Are you influenced by any designers of the past? CS:I try not to be but of course, yet everyone is influenced because it is so hard not to remember iconic pieces of history. A famous red-carpet dress or famous first lady’s dress so in that regard yes…. I also of course admire so much what big houses like Chanel and Dior have done. They have created such a world that is untouchable.
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jetset fashion
Eugenia Kuzmina THE STRONG -WILLED LADY Happy 2019! It’s a year of many significant changes in the world. What does this year signify for you as a woman, international model, comedian, actress, mom, etc.? 2019 is a year of many revelations. No doubt that in such industries as fashion, film and comedy—well, and motherland, which is a career—the last few years have been an incredible expansion of diversity, authenticity and truth. When I started modeling, there was still a very limited perception of what a fashion model can be. Our career was over at 25. I had a joke, “Recently I had a midlife crisis. I turned 25… Russians don’t live long…” and at the time it was true. If you were not financially ready to retire at 25 in modeling, it was over. Now there are all kind of models and role models who have careers. There are models like Maya Musk who is in her 70s, Ashley Graham who is a super-star, and who I remember was working very hard at a time as a catalog plus size mod-el, with no opportunities from the industry. There are models like Winnie Harlow who can’t be stereotyped by their skin color. It’s an exiting time in the industry! The movie industry has been changing a lot too— more voices are heard due to the many diverse channels, and I feel it’s a time of a creator. If you have a story, there are many avenues for it to be heard, as opposed to the old-fashion studio system with limited and controlled content. Well, in comedy, all I can say is that I can do a show at The Laugh Factory in a dress and not be bullied—and if people laugh, it’s authentically funny.
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What is your idea of perfect happiness? Being completely present in this moment in the heart, because the past and the future are the illusion of the mind What is your greatest fear? I have abandonment issues, and it’s something I’ve been working on. What is the one most thing you don’t like about yourself? People-pleasing tendency, self-deprecation,
apologizing for being authentic—I wish to do pure art without consideration of judgment.
Being married for 10 years—you cant un-see the reflection after that many years.
What is the most thing you don’t like in others? Haha, judgement! I think we form relationships based on what we need to learn in life.
Which living person do you most despise? I have to say no one … every connection has a meaning.
What is your greatest extravagance? Time.
Which words do you most overuse? I love you. Maybe it can’t be overused… eugenia-kuzmina.com
What is your favorite journey?
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AMIDAH SMARTEST BAG OF 2019
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eet British designers Lisa and Jordanna Cantor. We’d love to have you feature their incredibly smart designed bag by AMIDAH. AMIDAH is a vegan leather, cruelty free, bag that has revolutionized the fashion industry. Waist-belt, backpack, cross-body, shoulder, clutch, all in one. The bag is 100% unique in its design and versatility. It is effortlessly chic. At just $95 dollars, it might be your smartest purchase ever. Though a fairly new brand, AMIDAH has already seen acclaim and interest from high profile fashion bloggers and influencers such as We Wore What and acclaimed fashion designer Brian Atwood. AMIDAH is energized by the evolving modern woman. The brand is solidified in the belief that humans should not have to sacrifice their abilities in order to carry their belongings,
hands-free. AMIDAH emulates this Moda Operandi with its patented 5-way multifunctional aspect. AMIDAH’s compact, convertible bag is crafted from vegan suede - a texture that exudes elegance. Impeccably designed in England, its classic silhouette emphasizes the “less is more” aesthetic. The interior pouch offers space for more personal items, with a spacious lined interior boasting room for your daily basics. The outer pouch is designed to allow for quick access to your smaller daily needs. Punctuated with stainless steel findings, the AMIDAH bag comes with one belt for the waist bag style, two backpack straps, and one over the shoulder strap; allowing this timelessly crafted bag to be the smart, versatile, do-it all must have. A great item for women on the go, music festivals, shopping sprees, beach days, mothers, pretty much everyone! Let us know if we can set something up! Jordanna is based in NYC.
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Who Wore It Best? NYC Fashion Designer Morgan Clifford’s Faux-Fur
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organ is a veteran in the fashion industry having worked at major fashion houses such as Alice & Olivia and Calypso. She began designing her own statement coats in 2008 when she found a need for a festive jacket that can be worn during the winter that is chic, holiday appropriate and most importantly cruelty free. The line of women’s coats then expanded to feature little girl’s jackets after Morgan welcomed her very own daughter into the world! Having a Mommy & Me feel with the coats makes them that much more special. Although a relatively new brand, Morgan’s coats have already made their way onto some of Hollywood’s biggest A-Listers such as Nicky Hilton, Ashley Benson, Penelope Disick, Stassi Schroder, Corinne Olympios and more! She participated in her first NYFW last in 2018 and is gearing up for 2019. We’d love to have you feature her coats as Leopard is one of the big-gest fashion trends for 2019!
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Holding Court with
JUDGE MARILYN MILIAN Popular Judge of The People’s Court has the Final Word BY MELISSA CLARK & ADAM KLUGER
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hen Judge Marilyn Milian walks into the courtroom, everyone rises. Charming and witty, Judge Marilyn holds court weekdays on WNYW/FOX5 at 3 p.m. EST. Milian has been on the bench at “The People’s Court” since March 2001. Originally from Queens, New York, Milian moved to Miami with her family when she was eight years old. Milian received her undergraduate degree at the University of Miami, where she graduated summa cum laude with a 4.0 grade average. She then attended Georgetown Law
School, where she earned her law degree and graduated cum laude at the age of 23. Judge Milian served as an Assistant State Attorney from 1984-1994, appointed by Miami-Dade State Attorney Janet Reno. In 1994 she was appointed to the County Court bench, and in 1999 Governor Jeb Bush elevated her to the Circuit Court bench, where she handled complex criminal cases, including death penalty litigation. Judge Milian is honored to be the first Latina judge to host a nationally syndicated television court show. In the courtroom, Milian often offers
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“My mentors are the people when I first started working. Other judges, both men and women, who have had the knowledge and humor to handle cases in front of them. And to this day I am still friends with many of them. I am honored to know so many people who have inspired me throughout my career.�
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pearls of wisdom recalled from her Cuban mother and grandmother when addressing litigants. When her robe is on and she is on the bench, her whole heart goes into her work. Milian draws on life experiences as a mother, daughter, wife, and a sister, in all of her rulings. When asked about her motivation to transition to TV, Judge Marilyn laughed and replied, “They parked a truckload on money in front of my house, just kidding. The motivation within me thought, this could be fun. They were looking for a Latina Judge; this opportunity kind of came my way out of the blue. At first, I was told that the producers of The People’s Court were looking to do a second show, come to find out it was The People’s Court I was auditioning for. “ Judge Milian says her tough but fair style in the courtroom is all her own. “I do not really have a style, nor do I think the other Judges do. I believe we all roll with our personalities. Depending on the case, I handle it the way I approach life. If someone needs to be scolded because they are treating others poorly that is what I do. If a case is funny, I react with humor. If it is a serious matter, I treat it as such. Milian readily admits that all judges have mentors. “My mentors are the people when I first started working. Other judges, both men and women, who have had the knowledge and humor to handle cases in front of them. And to this day I am still friends with many of them. I am honored to know so many people who have inspired me throughout my career.” Over the course of her long and distinguished career as a Judge in the Miami Court system, Milian has ruled on serious legal cases involving everything from domestic violence to murder. On the bench of “The People’s Court” Judge Milian presides over small claims cases. Milian is
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proud to treat her TV courtroom and litigants with respect. “ To be honest, it is the same thing. I know there are cameras around, but I do not feel them. I handle the courtroom the same way as I did in my real courtroom.” For Judge Milian, the opportunity to teach television viewers the various nuances of the law are a responsibility that she takes very seriously. Milian’s effortless ability to communicate is just one of the reasons “The People’s Court” is so popular. Milian has her own theory on the popularity of the show. “Well, the court shows, in general, are well liked because a lot of people want to see justice served. The People’s Court is popular because we have been doing this the longest of anyone. This year we are going on our thirty-fifth year. We have an amazing group of people whose job is to sift through all the cases filed in courthouses across the country to find the best cases with the right blend of education and entertainment. If we give our audience the steady dose of both, they keep watching.”
Fans of “The People’s Court” are curious to know about Milian’s life outside the courtroom. How does she juggle her personal life as a mother and wife with her demanding career? “Poorly! (You are getting my humor) My philosophy is to stay present where you are. If you are at work; be present at work, if you are at home; be present at home. I think if you are worrying about work while you are at home, and vice versa, you are going to mess everything up. You have to know what your priorities are though. My priority is always my family. My kids come first. “ In her free time, Milian stays active. “ When I am not on the bench, I enjoy boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.” When asked if she had a most memorable case, Judge Milian replied, “ the most memorable cases usually involve family conflict. This season we had a father sue his ex-wife over the ashes of his deceased son. That is a case I will never forget!”
Despite her travel back and forth from Miami Milian says she really loves her job.
As for the biggest mistakes that litigants always seem to make, Judge Milian smiled, “they constantly come in unprepared. It is one thing for a defendant to wait for a piece of evidence, however, when the plaintiff who is the one filing the lawsuit comes in empty handed; it is hard to do my job.”
“The litigants, they are a scream. Every day that I go to work, I get a chance to listen to these wild stories and find justice for them.”
What advice does Judge Milian offer to viewers who dream of becoming a judge one day? You need to work hard and pay your dues!
“One has to go through college, law school, and having a lot of experience dealing with disputes; it is a long process. Other people may not think these small claims are important, however, the people involved in the lawsuits – that is all they have. Most people will learn how the justice system works based on their contacts in small claims courts. You are the one making the grand decision.” Even though Judge Milian realizes that “The People’s Court” can be incredibly entertaining, she realizes that she is dispensing justice for those who have been wronged. In these cases, it’s not just business as usual, it’s personal. “What I get angry about are the cases where someone is hurting someone else who is vulnerable. I have been doing this a long time, so I know it is a marathon and not a sprint; you cannot take all of them to heart, but some cases do stick with me a little longer because of the circumstances.” Milian hopes that viewers of “The People’s Court” will take away knowledge of the law and strive to make the world a better place by doing what is right in their own lives. “ I would like people to be kinder to each other. I spend all day watching what people do to one another and the negative psychological impact I observe. They are either obsessed about it or hurt by it; It is so much more than the money involved.”
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BAHAMIAN ADVENTURE Harbour Island the Lenny Kravitz dental fundraiser Mock Wedding Photographed By Jill Lotenberg Twitter | @jillphotography IG | @fotoho
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The “Flats”, Harbour Island 62 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com
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Stumbled upon the Grade 12 wedding skit at Harbour Island All Age School while driving by on the golf cart and became the official “Mock� Wedding Photographer.
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La Minerva Capri CAPRI’S BEST KEPT SECRET: LA MINERVA HOTEL BY KARINA Y. SOTELO
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estled in the heart of the magical isle of Capri, La Minerva Hotel is a charming and intimate boutique that epitomizes the ultimate romantic escape. This multi-generational family-run gem is one of the most beloved hotels on the Italian island–a luxurious blend of whitewashed walls, classic nineteenth-century architecture and contemporary
Mediterranean-influenced design, lined with secret lemon-scented paths and bougainvillealaced gardens. Each of the 19 rooms and suites are elegantly appointed and locally-sourced, featuring plush beds clothed in silken Italian linens, custom majolica-tiled floors, colorful
punctuations of artisan-crafted ceramics, spacious walk-in closets, and luxe bathrooms with jetted-tubs generously stocked with Capri’s famous Carthusia fragrances and bath products. Warm hospitality begins the moment guests arrive the island–the Esposito family and their amazing team cater to guests’ every whim, providing an unparalleled over-attentive service and an array of firstrate amenities. For a hotel this size, it has everything you could possibly dream of and expect from a honeymoon getaway: a hedonistic spa, a serene pool reminiscent of the garden of Eden, and private terraces beholding the most captivating views of the stunning coastline and sea.
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Snuggled between the winding paths of posh boutiques and cafés of Via Camarelle and the picturesque views of Via Tragara, La Minerva– unlike its luxury rivals–is quietly perched high on the cliffside away from the bustling historic town center and pulsating nightlife, with only breathtaking views of Capri’s scenic beauty to take in. Here, guests will find it easy to spend most of their day canoodling in their little love nest, but are encouraged to wander out and enjoy everything the enchanted islet has to offer. For a taste of the island’s glamourous night scene, guests can easily slip out to La Piazzetta, where celebs, socialites, and the fashionable flock to cocktail-sip and mix and mingle under the glimmering Mediterranean sky. Famous coves and private beach clubs are also in the immediate proximity of the hotel. But, if haute couture and upscale shopping is more of your thing, high-end fashion houses like Gucci, Hermes, and Prada (to name a few) are only few stylish footsteps–or catwalk–away for your dose of retail therapy. As for unforgettable views (though, the most incredible seascapes can be seen from just about every angle of the hotel), guests should be forbidden to leave the island without taking the little stroll up to Via Tragara, where only mind-blowing vistas of the turquoise waters clashing against the famous Faragoloni rocks can be seen, the perfect backdrop for those ready to pop the question. High-class service is the heartbeat of La Minerva experience. Voted Travellers’ Choice 2019 #1 Best Small Hotel in Italy, this familyrun boutique sets the bar for superlative and hyper-personalized service. Pampering begins the moment you set-foot on the island, the three Esposito brothers (Luigi, Antonino, and Marco), their mother Giovanna, as well as their devoted staff, will go far beyond than just providing directions to the hotel and delivering your luggage. At La Minerva, even the smallest gestures and details are not forgotten, guests are treated to the utmost and spoiled with all its luxe amenities. Greeted by name upon arrival and welcomed with the lobby bar’s best aperitifs– your choice of a handcrafted cocktail or minted lemonade refreshment naturally squeezed from the citrus fruits of their garden trees, coupled with lightly salted snacks and olives. His and hers bathrobes and slippers are delicately folded in your room and patiently anticipate your longawaited embrace. Fresh garden flowers are picked and delivered to your room daily along with a menu of the hotel’s signature drinks and a thoughtful itinerary of Capri’s outdoor secrets. If your sheets hug you tight in the morning (because of how snuggly they are), breakfast
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can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own room. And to unwind, therapeutic massages and facials can be experienced at the hotel’s decadent spa. There are few reasons to leave this dreamy place, but if you’re feeling a bit more energized rather than in complete zen, a well-equipped gym is only a short five-minute walk from the hotel. And for those looking for something more lovey dovey, the Espositos will arrange for private boat trips
or candlelit dinner reservations (as the hotel does not have an in-house restaurant) at your very request. Whatever it is that your heart desires, the Espositos will make you feel as if you have entered a family member’s home, genuinely pandering to your every need and ensuring that your only concern is to fully succumb to all the indulgences and luxuries that this valentine destination has to offer.
Legendary and authentic hospitality is not just one of La Minerva’s greatest offerings—it flows through this hotelier’s veins. Inherited as a wedding gift from their parents in the early twentieth-century, La Minerva hotel was once the humble home of Luigi and Laura Esposito. Originally made to warmly welcome tourists and visitors in two dedicated rooms in the newlyweds’ home, the Esposito’s little token of love quickly
became an exclusive place for the who’s who of the world–accommodating royal guests including the Duke of Windsor, Edward the VIII, formerly the King of the United Kingdom. Today, with the same gracious, warmhearted, and world-class service that their great-grandparents established this majestic hotel on, the Esposito brothers and their mother continue to host regal guests, celebrities, and jetsetters alike, as well as the
hopeless romantics who desire to feel like kings and queens even just for a weekend. A timeless capsule the moment you enter its opulent sugarcoated glassed doors and tranquil airy lobby, La Minerva evokes period glamour and chic contemporary design at every turn and in every detail. Recently renovated and designed by Giovanna Esposito (the hotel’s thirdMarch 2019 | 69
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generational owner and current proprietor), the hotel’s newest makeover features a clean palette of pearly white and rich royal blues, modern furnishings and sophisticated décor. The property’s architectural heritage is preserved in its centuryold vaulted ceilings and dramatic arches, and island tradition is honored in the old-fashioned touches and custom Italian upgrades: Sorrentoimported handcrafted ceramics and antiques that are mindfully sprinkled all throughout the hotel, and hand-painted majolica tiles that are immaculately spread across the floor with its vibrant colors echoing the azure of the sea. The hotel’s unique family past is also recorded in the vintage monochromatic photography that adorns the layered-white walls, but the deluxe sofas, swank glass tables, and glam coffee table books in the lobby, give this nineteenth-century old jewel a snazzy modernized flair. Other major renovations include the installation of a pool–a whisper-quiet oasis built on the grounds where the fruits of Mr. Luigi Esposito’s adored garden used to grow. Though the majority of Mr. Esposito’s precious nursery was replaced, the wooden-deck pool is in perfect harmony with nature, surrounded by a row of pillowed sunbathing beds shaded by a grove of lemon trees and violet bougainvillea blossoms. An amazing unobstructed view of the sea can be witnessed here (with a fizzy mimosa in hand, of course), all the while hearing the melodies of tropical birds, tree leaves rustling against the wind, and feeling the balmy island breeze softly brushing against ones skin. The garden pool, however, is just one kaleidoscopic peek at the many astonishing scenic displays La Minerva has to offer. Inside this treasure chest, is an atmospheric and convivial lobby area featuring a cozy living room space, cocktail bar, and glass doors that open up to two intimate balconies with a jaw-dropping panorama of Capri’s natural wonders. A quick lift up (or flight of stairs) from the lobby, is an open-air terrace with a bird’s eye view of the rocky coastline and sea
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where guests can enjoy a luscious buffet breakfast under the radiant Capri sun or, by evening, lovers can stargaze and profess their adoration for one another over a candlelit glass of wine. Whatever you choose, the snapshots taken at the terrace will replay in your mind for a lifetime. And, of course, who could forget the views from the suites, as most capture the same eternal portrait of Capri. All of the superior rooms and deluxe suites are charismatic with jacuzzi tubs, walk-in closets, comfy beds, and private canopied balconies with sea views. But, the shining star here, is the ultra-exclusive cottage-like suite that is gently sequestered in the back of the hotel. To find this hidden gem, you’ll need to walk down a sweet discreet pathway paved with colorful marine-inspired ceramic tiles bordered by a pebbled wall with climbing flowering vines. Covered by fringing plants and multi-hued florets and caged by a garden gate that intimately separates it from the pool, is where you’ll finally see the beautiful Casa di Emma sparkling like a jewel box. The premier suite inherits its name from one of the hotel’s most cherished generational owners–Emma Esposito–as she once occupied this iconic guest space. Casa Di Emma currently reigns as the largest suite at La Minerva and sets the tone for sheer luxury and intimacy. Key features include: a separate cozy living room area, a dazzling bathroom with a walk-in rainfall shower complete with flower and lemon-perfumed Carthusia bath soaps and beauty kit, a grandiose closet space with a minibar curated with your preferred alcoholic beverages and cocktail mixers, a king-sized bed topped with extra-fluffy jumbo pillows, and two sets of sliding glass doors veiled by cream-colored curtains that allow for the glittering sunlight to illuminate the entire suite. The best feature about this suite is what is behind the curtains and glass doors: a private terrace overlooking the infinite horizon shadowed by a fairytale-esque bougainvillea wrapped pergola. Though the suite includes two large screen TVs, you will forget that they even exist as most of your time will be spent with your other half on the terrace marveling at the most gorgeous sunsets.
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Jetset Hotspots in the City of Angels BY N O RA H B RA D FO RD
hroughout Awards Season, the spotlight shines bright on Hollywood as the city prepares for the year’s biggest events – from Television Academy’s Emmy Awards, to the Golden Globes, Grammy Awards and Oscars! We invite you to experience the excitement and glamour of Awards Season at these luxury destinations.
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of new Wellness Rooms. Culina restaurant offers a wide menu of culturally inspired dishes and a sumptuous Sunday brunch. The Vinoteca lounge is an Italian inspired wine and espresso bar ideal for either a fine coffee experience to start the day or a sensual glass of wine to end one.
Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles Given the diverse nature of Los Angeles it makes perfect sense to experience it from a luxury hotel located centrally. The newly-renovated Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is hidden in plain sight offering a glamorous, while low-key oasis at the heart of the City, with the addition
Sunset Tower A little over decade ago, owner Jeff Klein first reinvented the landmark Sunset Tower, creating what is known today as the unofficial epicenter of Hollywood. Klein embarked on a refresh of the hotel and common areas with his personal touch; with the goal of restoring its heart and soul while
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300 South Doheny Drive, Los Angeles, CA fourseasons.com
not compromising the character of such an iconic building. The dining arrangements focus on two distinct options, the Tower Bar and the Terrace. The Tower Bar is very grown-up with walnut paneling, a fireplace and classic bar – located in what was formerly the room of a gangster at the Tower, Bugsy Siegel. Maitre’D Gabe Doppelt is at the helm of this luxurious restaurant. 8358 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA sunsettowerhotel.com Number 850 Hotel The newest addition to hotelier and restaurateur Jeff Klein’s JK Hotel Group, Hotel 850 Bis is a new hotel concept inspired by European residential-style properties where the comforts
and accoutrements of home blend seamlessly with the luxury and service of a contemporary hotel. Nestled on a beautiful street in West Hollywood, the historic buildings circa 1918 bungalow façade leads to a newly designed property developed by architect Marc Appleton and designer Rita Konig in partnership with Klein. Have breakfast in the Living Room or enjoy the Rooftop deck with outdoor seating and a fireplace and take in the Los Angeles landscape. 850 N. San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA number850.com Beverly Hilton Opened in 1955 by distinguished hotelier Conrad Hilton, The Beverly Hilton, a Forbes Four-Star hotel, is nestled at the crossroads of the iconic Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards. The hotel combines the excitement and entertainment of Hollywood with the prestige of Beverly Hills. The 569-room hotel features 101 suites including nine private luxury suites within The Penthouse Collection. With more than 60,000 square feet of indoor and open-air event space, The Beverly Hilton boasts the most technologically advanced meeting space of its kind in the country. The hotel’s renowned International Ballroom plays host to glamorous annual events including the Golden Globe Awards Show, Oscar Nominee Luncheon, Pre-GRAMMYs Gala, and the Milken Institute’s Global Conference. The legendary Aqua Star Pool is Beverly Hills’ largest pool and is the setting for numerous recognizable photo shoots. Circa 55 restaurant entices guests with locallysourced cuisine in a stylish setting overlooking the pool. 9876 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA beverlyhilton.com Chateau Marmont It doesn’t get much more Hollywood than the Chateau Marmont hotel on Los Angeles’ iconic Sunset Boulevard, a luxury retreat built in 1920 with plans from a Loire Valley castle. Between its kitted-out poolside and hillside bungalows and the decadent main chateau, the architecture and grounds make quite a first impression. The hotel has a beautiful heated outdoor pool surrounded by gardens and a large sun patio. Indulge yourself with Chateau Marmont’s intimate dining room and garden terrace serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, or enjoy a cocktail at Bar Marmont. 8221 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA chateaumarmont.com March 2019 | 73
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The Shelbourne Distinguished Luxury in the Heart of Dublin BY NORAH BRADFORD
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he Shelbourne is a timeless landmark in the heart of Dublin. Magnificently renovated and the largest 5-star hotel in Dublin, The Shelbourne overlooks the city’s grandest square, St. Stephen’s Green, located within a few minutes’ walk from Dublin’s most famous landmarks as well as the key shopping and cultural areas of the city. The Shelbourne has for nearly two centuries, played a significant role in the literary, social, political, culinary and artistic traditions of Irish society. In 1922 the Irish constitution was drafted at The Shelbourne, chaired by Michael Collins, and one of the two original copies are to be found in the Constitution Room. The luxury 5-Star Dublin City Hotel is an iconic landmark in Dublin, well known for its fine dining, elegant Afternoon Tea and gracious surroundings. Their restaurants are some of the finest in Dublin City, and offer luxurious and gracious fine dining venues. The Shelbourne is currently in the middle of a multiphase restoration project. Some of the highlights are the newly refurbished Lord Mayor’s Lounge and the addition of 1824 Bar, the hotel’s residentonly bar.
throughout the bar, including historic prints, elegant engravings and framed literary works. Irish maps, scenes of Dublin life and musical scores related to the city also dot the walls. Bespoke mural-like paintings of a whimsical Irish landscape, created by artist Paul Slater, are also on display.
The 1824 Bar is filled with classic charm and sophisticated style. 1824 Bar brings an exceptionally stylish bar to Dublin. Designed by internationally renowned designer Guy Oliver, this elegant space complements the traditional nature of The Shelbourne while overlooking the hotel’s spacious outdoor terrace. Additional artworks can be found
The Lord Mayor’s Lounge, Dublin’s most historic Drawing Room, has been home to one of the most elegant and timeless traditions of Afternoon Tea. Enjoy the luxurious surroundings, lovingly restored in the color scheme of a traditional 19th Century Irish country house, illuminated with a glittering Waterford Crystal
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Chandelier. Guests can delight in the collection of special licensed paintings from The National Gallery of Ireland and complete your afternoon tea experience. One of the unique elements of The Shelbourne experience is their retained Genealogy Butler, Helen Kelly, an expert accredited genealogist who can work with guests during their stay, and empowers them to delve into their ancestral history and learn more about their past in the emerald isle.
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Gillian Greene PYEWACKET PICTURES, “FANBOY”
What it was like growing up with a famous actor as a dad (Lorne Greene)? I honestly did not know my dad was a famous actor until I was in my teens. My parents wisely sheltered me from that part of his career for many years, so as a little kid, all I knew was that my dad was a hard working guy who sometimes came home late (be-cause of a long shoot day on set). As I got older, I was always very proud of him be-cause he was so loved and respected for his accomplishments on stage, screen, and radio. But at the end of the day, he was just dad, and he was always there for me. At what age did you discover your dad was famous? Do you have a story? I don’t think there was a particular age—and it definitely wasn’t something I was preoccupied with, or even aware of, really—as a kid. The talk at our dinner table was probably like the talk at all other dinner tables: he would ask me about school, my horseback riding, things like that. Thinking back on it, I guess when he was on a pa-rade float at the Rose Bowl Parade one year, and I was standing next to him on it, I no-ticed the crowd was really excited to see him; they cheered like crazy. That’s when I realized he was so well-known and so widely loved. What did you take with you growing up in the entertainment indus-try? That fame is an illusion; what matters most is family. Your husband (Sam Raimi) was the director for some of the largest and known films in the world that are global box office hits. How did you meet him? Did he have an ego? When did you know he was the one? I met Sam at a bowling party in Santa Monica. I knew right away I was going to marry him because he was the kindest, funniest, most interesting person I had ever met. He has never had any ego whatsoever, which is one of the reasons I fell in love with him. When switching roles on your husband, how was it working with him on set? Was he difficult to direct? Did he play both roles actor and co-director? Did he give input & what was it like? He was purely an actor on the set of Fanboy, and only for two out of our 11 shooting days. He was very flexible as a 76 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com
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performer, and did whatever I asked him to do. The problem, however, is that he is not a trained actor, so he never gave the same per-formance twice—so while he would always ad-lib something hysterical, it was a bit of a challenge to cut together his scenes in the editing room. Did your dad, husband, and family contribute or play a role in your success? If so, how? Behind the scenes, Sam was instrumental in helping me prepare for Fanboy. He in-spired me and helped me bring it to life. He is a master director who understands story and character like no one else, so anytime I had a question, he was there to answer it. He was incredible at identifying when an element needed tweaking, whether it was a line in the script, a storyboard, or the way a scene was cut together. Your family has been heavily involved in the film industry, so when your children expressed interest in acting did you have any hesitation? If so, why and how did you get through it? Sam and I did not hesitate to support more than one of our kids when they expressed an interest in the movie business, but we did not go out of our way to help them. He and I wanted them to pay their dues so that any successes that came their way felt earned. We also wanted to make sure they chose those paths for the right reasons— that they were passionate about performing and telling stories—not for fame or fortune. Do you feel that being so well connected is a double-edged sword? No, not at all. It is an honor and privilege to have the opportunities I’ve had because of my connections. There is no negative whatsoever. Everybody should be so lucky. Is there anyone in the entertainment industry whom you would like to sit down with, and if so, why?
My dear friend, actor Bill Paxton, who tragically passed away a couple of years ago—he was the nicest person, and I never got a chance to say goodbye. He came to the set of Fanboy to support me, and I will forever miss him. What sets you apart from other directors? I’m a mom of 5 kids, that’s definitely one thing, and I suppose I have what it takes to corral everybody on a set when it’s time to get down to business and shoot a scene haha. But seriously, I feel that I have a unique and irreverent sense of humor that comes through in Fanboy and my other film Murder of a Cat; this is because I believe there is humor in even our darkest moments. I also think I have a knack for casting ac-tors in roles. Fran Kranz, the star of Fanboy (and Murder of a Cat), is an extraordinarily talented and versatile actor who easily carries both movies - he is an absolute delight to watch. And several years before that, I identified and pushed for Tobey Maguire for the role of Peter Parker in Sam’s Spider-man movies. The studio was very reluctant about him initially, but I knew he was the one... Going to red carpet events, movie premiers, etc. how do you pick the perfect outfit? Do you feel like you have a good sense of fashion (colors, what to wear, what not to wear, etc.)? Who do you look to for advice on fashion? At events like those, I wear whatever I will feel most comfortable and confident in. Oh, I enjoy fashion tremendously—I follow certain designers closely, like Saint Laurent and Prada, and occasionally, I’ll splurge on something from them. But I also love to buy things from Reformation because their pieces tend to be less expensive and they often have super cute designs. I also love jewelry, and I’m a big fan of both Irene Neuwirth and Jen Meyer, whose pieces are classic, unique, and beautiful. Fashion is an art form, and the thing about art is that it’s subjective, so at the end of the day, you have to go with what YOU love and what YOU feel confident wearing!
Who inspires you as a director? Sydney Pollack (Tootsie, Out of Africa, Three Days of the Condor) is one of the names at the top of my list because he was a trained actor who studied with Sandy Meisner and always got excellent performances out of his actors. You have quite an all-star cast in Fanboy. How was it working with all the different personalities? It was not challenging at all because all of our actors are wonderful, sparkling people who are professional in every way, and everyone delivered terrific performances. It was my honor and privilege to work with each and every one of them. Do you get star struck? If so tell us a story of a time you got star-struck? When I was 12, I was completely starstruck by—and had a huge crush on—my dad’s young and very handsome co-star on Battlestar Galactica, an actor named Richard Hatch. He was so charming and such a gentleman! Fanboy hits Amazon March 22nd. What can viewers expect? You can expect a fun ride through the Hollywood trenches with an endearing lead (Fran Kranz), a lot of comedy, and an uplifting ending! Anyone who has ever been an actor in Hollywood—or at least thought about doing it at some point—will definitely re-late to what our protagonist Jeremiah goes through! How can people stay in contact with you? Great question! They can follow me on @ pyewacketpictures on Instagram! What advice would you give young actors, producers, or directors that you feel can really help them? Persevere through the rejection—which is what Fanboy is about —because what’s im-portant is the journey, not the end result. If you enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll have no regrets! March 2019 | 77
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Cathlene Miner EXERCISES TO BEGIN YOUR SPRING SHAPE UP BY CAT HL E N E M IN E R
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ith 27 years of experience in personal training women from the inside out, I know a bit about how to achieve long-term results with your physical body and spirit— and it’s not all about cardio. Here are some of my tips that have guided men and women over that dreaded plat-eau, and there is no better time than right now, Spring!! Great posture and strong abs may look awesome, but it goes so much deeper than that. It has a much more significant effect in and on our lives. Everything you do—walk, bend, sit, stand, reach, and lift—involves your abs and back. It also has a direct effect on how we look physically, what exercises we can do, our body posture, our confidence, and our and Self Perception, which all lead to how we are creating our life.
Muscles that make up your middle don’t only make your bra look amazing… It allows for better alignment through your entire body, therefore a perfect base for those toned muscles and the healthy weight that you’re after. Grab a friend, if need motivation, and let’s go!! Do these moves 3 times a week, doing 3 sets of each. 1. Twist Bend (works back, abs and hamstrings) • Stand with feet hip-width apart, place your hands behind your head with your el-bows out to the side. • Keep your back straight and bend forward from the hips until your upper body is parallel to the floor. • While your body is in the lowered position, rotate your torso to the right, pause, and then left. That is 1 rep. • Complete 10 reps. 78 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com
2. Plank (works abs, back, and shoulders) • In a push-up position, balance on your forearms (you may want a thin cushion or towel for comfort under your arms), your toes are slightly wider than your hips, be sure your pelvis is neutral (no butts in the air). • Keep your glutes and abs tight. Hold this position with glutes and abs tight. • Hold for 30 seconds. Tip: Do not hold your breath 3. Reverse Crunch (works abs) • Lie on your back and place your hands palms down under your butt. • Extend both legs in the air so your body is in a 90-degree angle. Keep your legs slightly apart so they are in a small V, contract your abs. Exhale, Tighten your abs and lift your hips a few inches off of the ground. Lower back to starting position. • This is 1 rep. • Complete 20 Reps. 4. Glute Squeeze (works butt, lower back, and
hamstrings) • Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet about hip-distance apart. • Keep your feet about a foot away from your hips. • Rest your arms alongside your body with your palms facing down. • Lift your pelvis up and squeeze your glutes at the top. • Hold this position for 10 seconds and return to the starting position. • This is 1 rep. (add a weight if you need to be challenged) • Complete 16 reps. • One of the best times to do this is while you are watching a show. Start at the first exercise and continue on until you have completed each rep range. • Do as many as you can do for the commercials or 3 minutes (Set a timer on your phone). Pick up where you left off during the next break. • Then repeat 2 more times
5. Walk • Get out and walk. • Aim for 10, 000 steps a day or more. • If you’re more experienced bring it to a jog for 30 minutes 3 times per week. • It’s best to track your steps. • These days you can even track with your phone or invest in a pedometer of some sort. Tools for Success • Eat healthfully Junk on the inside will equal to junk on the outside. • Put your weekly workout schedule on your calendar. Have a plan. • Set goals. Example: I will exercise with the above routine 3 times per week for a month and then reevaluate. You will open your flow to creating your desired life on purpose just by paying attention to your posture. More on that in the 30 Day Self Perception Makeover at www.cathleneminer.com March 2019 | 79
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Peter J. Curti BEAUTY FROM THE INSIDE OUT
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s a young boy, Peter J. Curti was always fascinated by fashion, elegance, fabrics, textures, movement, vibrance, and how simple accessories and colors can enhance a women’s outward beauty—and more importantly—a women’s sense of self and
confidence.
Fast-Track Forward Today, Peter is about to launch the second of his collection of luxury women’s evening wear known as the House of Peter James, with the first collection debuted in NYFW in 2016. He has also been featured in Teen Vogue, E! TV Network, WEtv, VH1 Network, Buzzfeed, Teen Vogue, Million Dollar Matchmaker, Botched, Candidly Nicole, and more.
Destiny for Design From playfully exploring in his mother’s closet to dedicating his free time to learning about all elements of fashion, Peter soon began sketching and constructing designs of his own and then pairing it with accessories for a complete look.
Helping luxury companies, professionals, and A-list celebrities with their brand development, personal image, fashion styling, photography, and visual storytelling has proven a notable asset for that has garnered center stage at a wide- range of red carpets, reality tv series, and on a private consulting basis.
Perhaps the most intriguing of his history is that Peter is almost entirely self-taught! With having no fashion design background or schooling other than having attended the School of Visual Arts for his BFA, this designer’s eye for precision, style, and empowering appeal is taking strong notice, on- and offcamera.
Here’s a reflection of Peter’s journey and personal testament to his innate talent and love of fashion and authenticity… I have mastered in design since a very young age, and it’s what I truly love.
It’s a part of me and who I have been created to become. I feel that everyone is unique, and we should all really represent our own ‘real beauty’ and authentic self. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.Fashion can either make you soar or make you not confident and want to hide. So many women today know their flaws—in fact, they can tell you everything they don’t like about their body their face, their hair, etc. However, if you ask a women to name 10 things they DO like about themselves, you will see them really have to think. For decades, women have been comparing themselves to the so-called ‘perfect’ women that the media has falsely portrayed. Trying to look the part, and even go as far as not enjoying life or starving to reach a certain weight that they are never meant to be, is just wrong and sad.
Women need to realize that we are all flawless diamonds—and no two are the same. That is what makes us unique special, different, and bold.
Real beauty is about loving yourself, being confident in your own skin, curvey, big breasted, no breast, cake bottom, no bottom, nice thighs, thick thighs… it doesn’t matter. Simply love yourself! Look for colors that make you feel excited, happy, beautiful, and joyful. Seek out outfits that you get you excited. Tips for Fashion • Dress to impress yourself. • If you like it rock it. • Don’t compare your body to others. • Be you, love you, and be kind to yourself. The House of Peter James is designed for everyone—no specific size, shape, body type, skin color, mold, trend. This collection is a lifestyle about embracing your own inner beauty—feeling good, loving yourself, and rocking in confidence.
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Acquiring the “Cognitive Toolkit for Success” CONVERSATION WITH STEPHEN RUDIN, MD, FOUNDER OF THE EXECUTIVE FUNCTION CENTER OF NEW YORK(EFCNY) AK: Nice to have you here today. “Executive Functions” have become a ubiquitous buzzword in our culture and, in fact, were just last week mentioned in a piece in the New York Times. Can you help us understand what executive functions are? SR: Executive functions are a collection of abilities that allow us to begin with a thought, turn it into an intention, and carry it out within a given time frame, even in new or changing circumstances. Neuroscientists agree that there are three core executive functions. The first is called inhibitory control, which is the ability to focus and not be distracted from the matter at hand. The second is working memory, or the ability to put information to work in the present moment – for example following multi-step directions, carrying on a complex conversation, or doing mental math. The third is cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to see things from different perspectives and approach problems in new ways. These core skills give rise to the higher order executive function skills of reasoning, problem solving, and planning, collectively referred to as fluid intelligence. Executive function skills are essential for success in school, work, and relationships. Experts in the field have referred to executive functions as a “cognitive toolkit for success.” AK: What does that mean on a practical basis? SR: Let me answer that by talking about children who don’t have strong executive functions. Parents generally come to learn about executive functions when their child constantly loses things, can’t keep track of time, can’t organize their desk or backpack, and turn every night’s homework time into a battle. Sometimes the challenges are more evident in school work, other times the bigger toll is taken at home. If left unaddressed, executive function challenges can wreak havoc on learning, family relationships, and the child’s self-esteem. AK: This brings us to the Executive Function Center of New York (EFCNY). How do you work with students? SR: We formed EFCNY with Dr. Adele Diamond, the world’s leading expert on executive functions, as our founding advisor. Our mission is to provide transformational executive function mentoring for students of all ages. We employ a unique, multi-pronged
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approach that addresses academic and selfesteem challenges while helping students become independent thinkers and problem solvers. We also build emotional intelligence by practicing mindfulness skills and mentoring students on how to manage stress and take care of their physical and emotional health. We simultaneously work with parents to help them create a home environment that supports building strong executive function skills. AK: Can we hear how this process works more specifically? SR: Suppose we were talking about a child who experiences difficulty organizing his space, remembering things, and managing his time. As a result, he struggles in several of his classes, including writing, history, and science. He experiences anxiety both in class and while doing homework. Suppose also that there are areas wherein the student excels, including math and music. First, we would meet with the student’s parents to learn everything we could about his strengths and vulnerabilities, completing an individualized assessment to help them understand more about their child and his executive functions in general. The parents would leave our consultation with a summary of our assessment and an executive function primer. In follow-up meetings and discussions, we would continue to educate
them about executive functions and related skills, including mindfulness and self-regulation. We also educate parents about the importance of a growth mindset, which means believing that you can change if you work, practice, and try new solutions to the things you couldn’t accomplish before. With this information, his parents can support the student’s skill-building at home. In this hypothetical case, our work with the student would begin by using his interest in music to engage him in a drumming practice with our talented musician mentor. Drumming is an excellent mindful movement activity that can build executive functions while helping students connect with others. As he immerses himself in this creative and fun practice, he is building the three core executive function skills that will then transfer to other areas of his life. The second part of our student intervention is academic support. Since the student enjoys math, we can use skillful reflections to show him the connection between executive function strengths and high levels of achievement. In the areas where he struggles – writing, history, and science – we would provide contentspecific support and strategies to help develop necessary executive function skills. This academic mentoring addresses gaps in knowledge and skills while reducing stress and building selfesteem.
AK: What is a typical schedule for a student being mentored at EFCNY? SR: Most students work with our mentors twice per week for ninety minutes, plus short digital check-ins three days per week to reinforce the work from the sessions. We generally work with students in this intensive way for a semester or about four months in order to make significant progress in improving their academic performance and building the foundational skills for independent, successful navigation of schoolwork and life in general. AK: Where do you work with students? SR: Our main learning center is located in the Flatiron District of New York City, we have a satellite learning center on the Upper West Side, and we also mentor students in the tri-state area, across the US, and virtually anywhere in the world using digital technologies such as Zoom, Skype, WeChat, and WhatsApp. AK: Thank you. How do we learn more about EFCNY? SR: It’s been a pleasure. Our website is www.efcny. com. We can be reached directly by phone or text at 917-575-9662. There is also an EFCNY YouTube Channel, which can be accessed through our website. March 2019 | 83
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Kimberly Guilfoyle AMERICA FIRST VICE CHAIRWOMAN BY MELISSA CLARK
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hen America First Vice Chairwoman Kimberly Guilfoyle takes the stage-any stage, it is hard to keep your eyes off her. On this evening, Guilfoyle, resplendent in a checkered Karen Millen dress, rallied the adoring crowd behind her vision of America. Guilfoyle describes herself as a mother, sister, patriot, and grateful American. The popular political activist and Donald Trump Jr’s “better half” and “not-so-secret weapon” is the proud product of first-generation immigrants. Her father Anthony was from Ireland and her mother Mercedes from Puerto Rico. Coming from a home where her parents were so appreciative and proud to be Americans, made a lasting impression on Guilfoyle. “My father wanted to provide for his children, for us to get the best education, and follow the law.” In her book, “Making the Case” How to Be Your Own Best Advocate,” Guilfoyle reveals how at the age of eleven, she lost her mom to leukemia. The death of her mother would forever change the young Kimberly’s life. Already recognized as a gifted student, Kimberly took a major role in raising her younger brother while also pursuing her own goals. Her father instilled in his young daughter the importance of always going the extra mile. “My dad often thought that in her short time on
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this earth, my mother held herself back, and he didn’t want that to be my experience too.” Guilfoyle’s skills, talents, and determination have driven her to become a successful prosecutor, First Lady of San Francisco, Fox News Anchor and now the Vice Chairwoman for America First--one of the Republican Party’s rising stars. Guilfoyle believes in hard work and being a lawabiding citizen, “We are a nation of honor, we are not people in this country who cut the line and expect things to be given to them while others follow the law.” Not surprisingly, one of the major topics of the night was President Trump’s controversial proposal on building a wall to keep out illegal immigrants. Guilfoyle, a former Deputy District Attorney of Los Angeles, brought up the tragic case of Kathryn Steinle who was shot to death by Jose Ines Garcia Zarate while she was walking with her father along Pier 14 in Embarcadero, a district of San Francisco, also known as “Sanctuary City.” Zarate, an illegal Immigrant, was previously deported on five separate occasions for multiple offenses. Other high profile luminaries in attendance included Barbara Winston, President of the UN Women for Peace Association, Attorney Robin Weaver, President of the Woman’s National Republican Club and Jane Pontarelli, another prominent member of the Woman’s National Republican Club.
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Sara Brooke THE FEMALE STEPHEN KING Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. Sara Brooke. I write horror, paranormal romance and suspense novels. Tell us your latest news, we hear you have a film on the horizon? Yes, I am very excited to share that my short story Stairwell will be adapted into a short film by award-winning producer Hugo Teugels. And I’ve got a new book called The Inn coming out later this year. This will be my 11th novel to date! I’ve been very busy. When and why did you begin writing? I’ve always been a writer, but was first professionally published in 2012. When did you first consider yourself a writer? I guess the first time I really felt like a professional writer was after the publishing of my first book Still Lake. It was amazing
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to have my book accepted by a publisher who was willing to take a risk on a brand new writer. What inspired you to write your first book? I had always wanted to write stories but felt like they would never get published. With the advent of electronic publishing, many barriers were removed and it truly opened the door for the release of a bevy of different novels by less well-known authors. How much of that book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? My first book is very realistic and actually happened to some degree, years after I wrote it. Many people wondered how I could have predicted the water crisis in Michigan. I really don’t know. But there was always the potential for lead in the water, and it became the impetus for my first book.
Any advice for other writers? Just write. Don’t get distracted by social media, how many books you have sold, your reviews… just focus on your story and enjoy the journey. Remember, you are creating something brand new – it is a privilege and a gift. Enjoy your talents and let them take you on new travels. Anything specific you want to tell your readers? Thank you for reading my tales. I have sold more than 100,000 books because you have taken the time to read me. And I appreciate all of you. More than you will ever know. What makes you laugh/cry? Life. The past and my mistakes. My loves and those who love me. Do you have any hobbies? Reading, watching horror movies and playing with my dog, Buster. I’m a simple gal with a very vivid imagination!
Alissa Carpenter EVERYTHING’S NOT OK AND THAT’S OK COACHING
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illennials currently make up over 30% of the workplace and by 2025 will make up 75%. At the same time, about 10,000 Baby Boomers retire daily leaving more and more open leadership positions. Due to the shift in leadership, millennials are taking on higher level roles faster and earlier than ever before. Organizations and their leaders, now more than ever, have a need to develop clear communication strategies across generations to ensure a strategic succession plan and open communication among employees, their managers and the organization. As a retention, recruitment, and engagement strategy, C-Suite executives can offer millennials the opportunity to learn and grow. By providing this generation with a clear leadership ladder and access to internal and external professional development programs they can see a future at your organization. Reverse mentoring programs between millennials and baby boomers have also proven to be successful where both parties can share the skills and experience with one another. This allows baby boomers to give millennials access to meetings and individuals they may not work with and for millennials to share their expertise in other areas. It helps to enhance community and build one-on-one relationships.
Alissa Carpenter founded Everything’s Not Ok and That’s Ok Coaching in 2015 to help organizations effectively communicate and identify individual and team strengths in multi-generational workforces. After more than a decade in higher education at top-tier institutions, including the Wharton School, she uses her unique sightline into the young professional mindset, shedding light on the widespread need for relationship building and interpersonal communication skills. Now as an organizational trainer, consultant, and speaker, Carpenter works directly with organizations and their leaders to bridge communication barriers between teams, generations, geography, and job functions; providing her clients with a strategic communication plan. Her insider knowledge spans industries from broadcasting, medical, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, industrial, education to government; working with nonprofits to Fortune 500 companies. Her expertise has been featured on NPR, ABC, FOX, CBS, and quoted in various media outlets including CNN Money and Moneyish (a Dow Jones Site). She was also a Forbes Contributor and is currently writing a book focusing on communication and relationship building in the workforce.
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Talyn Fiore LIFE-CHANGING LEAP OF FAITH TO FREEDOM
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ometimes reaching a professional goal is not as uplifting as envisioned… Sometimes we become slaves to work. We hate what we do, but yet we continue doing it, day af-ter day. In fact, it becomes such a robotic reflex that over time we often lose the sense for our own sense of self and identity. The daily grind becomes a blur of living for the weekend. We miss out on so much of life not really living but simply striving to fit the mold, keep up with everyone else, winding up in debt, failed marriages, and dull routines. So many people seek temporary happiness—whether it be shopping, an affair, eating, drugs, spending money, etc. Then one day, we wake up for a brief moment when someone passes, and we say things like “life is short.” How can we start thinking our way out of this cycle without getting pulled back into the commonplace, everyday schedule? Talyn Fiore knew this life all to well. Stuck working long days, waitressing at a high-end Japanese restaurant in downtown LA, she catered to people who felt superior and entitled because of their income or a lucky break, etc. She was consistently judged for being a waitress—little did people know, she was actually a highly talented actress
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and interior designer who settled, like most, for easy money. Trapped by low self-esteem and self-doubt, Talyn lived this life for years. Life took a different turn, however, when she met a roommate who moved from Russia to become an actor. He ultimately served as her valuable teacher in the manner that he questioned her career motives, trying to understand why this young, beautiful girl was other people’s critical thoughts and even money to hold her back from pursuing her dream. Hungry for a better life, Talyn picked up the “Power of Now” by Abraham Hick and “The 30 Day Self Perception Self Perception Makeover” by Cathlene Miner, reputed Life Coach and author who promises a change life within 30 days. Best of all, Cathlene was accessible. Talyn soon began speaking to her, watching her videos, and carrying out her concept. That’s when Talyn began to change her destiny. Talyn’s journal entries were filled with Cathlene’s wisdom: • Changing our Statements • Go to Vision • Feel it, Smell it, Taste it, See it • Finding things you love about yourself, etc.
She finally left her job on a leap of faith and began to trust the process. She allowed herself to accept different opportunities. Even though she was taught to avoid background work, the opportunity arose and instead of turning it down, she was thankful and gained knowledge, lessons, as well as a few miracles that came from it. her perception changed, her happiness elevated for her everyday, she attracted everything she wanted in life—from friends and family relationships to auditions and paid gigs. Most recently, Talyn was featured in an international digital commercial for one of the largest automotive companies globally. From self-sabotage to a renewed faith with positive and uplifting self-talk—believing in herself and the universe.
“No matter what your dream is, you can reach it, achieve it, and it’s not going to be from working tirelessly— but more from your inner self. Stop facing outwards and seek help, because you are facing the wrong way. Turn inwards and be kind to yourself. Treat your self with respect, love, and watch your world change.”
The Ultimate Moroccan Adventure THE 29TH ANNUAL RALLYE AÏCHA DES GAZELLES DU MAROC BY E LIZA BE TH DA RW E N
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ear after year, the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc has been a pioneer, never ceasing to grow, constantly developing and evolving with the times, always faithful to its founding values: courage, the desire to push one’s limits, loyalty, solidarity and social commitment. The 29th annual event will take place between March 15-30, 2019 among the rolling dunes of the stunning Moroccan desert. A unique concept with thoughtful and impeccable execution, the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc is the first international off-road rally race of its kind exclusively for women. Since 1990, it has brought together women between the ages of 18 and 71 from more than 13 different countries, who will embark on an adventure of a lifetime from Nice in the South of France on March 15th, 2019 and onward to the beginning of a nine-day rally competition in the Moroccan desert. Each vehicle is equipped with satellite tracking system, powerful enough to provide minute by minute tracking, so even without seeing a vehicle for hours, the women are never alone. By the end of the experience, participants— known as “Gazelles”—have created adventure-filled new memories, deepened their bonds with their teammates, and pushed themselves further than they ever thought they could. The rally also features an electric vehicle “E-Gazelle Vinci Immobilier” category, with participants called “E-Gazelle.” Officially launched by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc boasts an ISO 14001 Environment Management System (EMS) certification, an internationally recognized environmental management standard taking into consideration the immediate and long-term environmental impacts of an organization’s products, services, and processes.
Through the actions of its non-profit, Coeur de Gazelles, the rally also respects its scenic host country and its people. Coeur de Gazelles works on projects that meet the needs of Morocco’s remote populations: medical care, education, the environment and sustainable development, job training for women, improving living conditions, and a desire to spread joy by distributing donations. THE FREEDOM AND PLEASURE OF CHOOSING YOUR OWN PATH The Gazelles’ goal is to drive the shortest possible distance to reach a series of predefined checkpoints. Free to choose their own route, they face a challenge each day: to study the map and the day’s geographical coordinates, analyze the risks and difficulties of the terrain and choose the shortest path. They have the choice of driving around a mountain or crossing over it, driving through the dunes or avoiding them... A COMPASS AND SOME COMMON SENSE Every morning the Gazelles receive a «Road Book». This document contains only the geographic coordinates or headings and distances of the day’s initial checkpoints. Forget about GPS, phones and other modern communication tools: using a compass, a navigational plotter and maps, they plot their route and plan their itinerary. TO WIN THE COMPETITION The rankings are determined by calculating the extra kilometers driven (distance driven between check points minus crow flies distance) and penalty kilometers for any check points not reached. The winning team is the one that finds the greatest number of checkpoints while driving the least number of kilometers. EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF AFRICA Morocco, host country of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles since its inception. Gazelles in search of challenging terrain and the great outdoors will be seduced by the magnificent and varied landscapes of Morocco, with its sand dunes, rocky mountains, green valleys, fertile plains, arid plateaus and lush oases. The Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc takes place under the High Patronage of His Majesty, King Mohammed VI, who has authorized the use of the Royal Coat of Arms on the Gazelles’ vests. This is the only event that has ever been granted this honour. Many Moroccans come out to welcome and assist the competition at every step of the way, from the dunes of Merzouga to Essaouira. rallyeaichadesgazelles.com
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Kelly Styne AN ABSTRACT AND POP ARTIST
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elly Styne is an emerging Los Angeles based abstract and pop artist. Her career in creative industries, including film, editorial, and fashion, has coincided with her passion for art. Her work is inspired by the colors of her California surroundings and artists such as Ed Ruscha and Gerhard Richter. “Painting is both a challenge and an outlet, a discipline and a passion,” she says. In 2016 she began painting a series of layered artworks which contain words associated with the pop culture and her life in Los Angeles. She uses text as a central communication vehicle in her artistic expression, pushing forth words as her primary way to get out her message. A persistent theme in Kelly Styne’s work is the attempt to evoke an emotion in viewers. Styne primes her canvases with carefully selected colors and then adds several layers of acrylic paint until the final image appears, leaving her thought-provoking messages exposed.
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Bentley Meeker EXPLORING LIGHT
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arvey|Simon is pleased to present Exploring Light, a new series of illuminated, sculptural works by Bentley Meeker. The exhibition will take place during Armory week at 517 W. 37th Street NY, NY 10018, a street level gallery space in the Hudson Yards district in close proximity to the fairs. The show will be open and on view Tuesday - Saturday, 11am-6pm, and by appointment. An artist talk will be held in the gallery on Saturday, March 16, at 1pm.
This new work is the result of Meeker’s observations and research into visible light and its impact on the human psyche. The artist’s expertise comes from decades of experimentation, study and use of varying light frequencies via his studio practice, as well as his commercial career as a renown lighting designer. Meeker’s work is primarily focused around the essence and exploration of light’s nature, its meaning to us, and the changes in our collective use of light. His mission is to create reactions and relationships between light sources and the human experience. Exploring Light consists of forty contemplative installations
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Janna Bullock_Masha Rudenko_Photo Credit_Sylvain Gaboury/PMC
that create a unifying tableau and invite the viewer to immerse themselves in a collective perception. These meticulously constructed sculptures comment on the intersection of human culture and the natural world. Meeker’s works scrape down our experience of artificial light to its rawest components. Using contrasting light frequencies and their resulting hues as observable springboards for contemplation, Meeker nudges the observer toward a new awareness about our environment by creating perceptional effects that are felt by the viewer long after the show is over. About Bentley Meeker New York City-based artist Bentley Meeker’s practice is concerned with the component properties of light and how light affects the overall human experience. In 2014, he created “The “H” in Harlem,” a large-scale public art installation suspended under the 125th St and 12th Ave viaduct in Harlem, NYC in conjunction with the New York City Department of Transportation’s art initiative and the 125th Street BID. He has been a multi-year featured artist at Burning Man festival in Northwestern Nevada, creating the lighting for the Temples of Transition, Whollyness, and Promise in 2011, 2013, and 2015 respectively.
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Steven Trenk_Susan J. Barron_Photo Credit_Sylvain Gaboury/PMC
With “Weedworld,” his 2017 installation at Canada’s Penticton Public Art Museum, Meeker paid playful homage to marijuana, creating an installation comprised of four separate pot-leaf imprinted glass walls with light projecting through each to create a transporting experience for the viewer. Additionally, he was a featured artist twice at the Southampton Arts Center, once for the opening exhibition in 2014 and has put up multiple solo shows at the National Arts Club, the CORE: club, as well as at galleries in Chelsea and SoHo. In 2012, Meeker created a solo light installation in five parts, “Flame to Now IV,” at the Whitney Museum of American Art’s Breuer building, and, later, in collaboration with performance artist Carolee Schneeman, was the first artist to have a work of any kind grace the museum’s building downtown in the Meatpacking District. In 2016, Meeker was directly commissioned by Michelle Obama to create a light sculpture for the Nordic state dinner at The White House. Outside of his artistic endeavors, Meeker is the founder of Bentley Meeker Lighting & Staging, Inc., a lighting company known for creating unique light environments for many important gala, corporate and cultural events throughout New York City. Meeker lives in Spanish Harlem.
Fern Mallis_Bentley Meeker_Photo Credit_ Sylvain Gaboury/PMC
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Christopher Makos Magic ARTIST ON THE RISE BY R AC H E L VA N C E L E T T E
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ith all the buzz around town about the Whitney Museum exhibition, Andy Warhol- From A to B Again, and the 350 works curated by the brilliant Donna De Salvo, we all needed to stop and take in the amazing works including photographs, canvases and films by the late artist this past winter season. Artist on the Rise shines the light on other great artists who surrounded Warhol during this period, one being well known American photographer and artist, Christopher Makos. Makos is noted for introducing Warhol to the works of famous artists Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring, and also for giving Warhol his first camera! The artist chronicles his close friendship and extensive international travels with Andy Warhol (including the famous Concord!) Their journey is published in multiple books, including his own book, Warhol: A Photographic Memoir. The artist first apprenticed with noted photographer Man Ray, and now has a major career traveling the world contributing to publications such as Interview, Rolling Stones, New York Magazine and many more. Makos photographed many celebrities including the gorgeous Elizabeth Taylor, Calvin Klein, Liza Mellini and many celebrated contemporary artists like Cindy Sherman, Roy Lichtenstein and Keith Haring, all of whom have visited him over the years wanting to be touched by Makos’ magic and raw talent, hoping to stay connected to this special man who taught Warhol to take his first photograph! I had the privilege of spending some time with the artist, and his raw, candid, captivating and deeply personal photographs surrounded us during the private studio visit. The experience was as if you were in the room with all of his subjects looking down on you. Makos continues to blaze a unique trail in photography, traveling the world
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as an almost modern day contemporary oracle, providing timeless and intimate views that captivate audiences moving viewers to continue to want something more. So you worked with Warhol between 1976-1987 for nearly a decade? Yes this is correct. Peter, who manages all the archive can confirm because I can’t live in that time frame, you know what I mean. I can’t live there. And this was hard to live there. I’d prefer now. How did you become a photographer? What was the interest? Someone gave me a camera as a gift because I was dabbling in drawing and electronic music and making all kinds of experiments. I just liked to explore and to get straight to the point of what you wanted to do, one didn’t have to be involved with a lot of other people like in the music industry or other creative forms. You took pictures, you develop them, and you were in control. You were the director. And also, it was a language that I liked immensely. Have people always been your subjects? Was it about your relationship with the subjects? Yes. I mean, the subject matter sort of emerges through my personality, because my personality has always been sort of outgoing, happy and friendly person. And so whether it’s my first meeting with Warhol or Tennessee Williams or all the people that I’ve known throughout my career. I speak to them, talk to them, and say, “Oh, let’s do your portrait.” It would just come about naturally, unlike today they don’t come about naturally. If you go around today and want a photograph of a famous person, there are many layers of press or PR people and so on. You can’t simply get to that person very easily. It’s a very different time frame now. I mean, those people, they don’t do
things like that anymore. Well, and being part of their intimate life, I guess, and spending time with them, I mean they gave you that access to truly. I was thinking when I was coming up to the elevator today. I’m kind of like a historian more than even a photographer.
my influence on him. These stone photographs which I had been doing for years, and I gave that idea because he was looking for something sculptural, and I thought, “You all have multiple shows. Let’s just take the same thing and do it over and over.”
I just spent some time with Jane Goodall because the weekend that our show opened up, the next weekend Jane Goodall was in giving a talk about the environment and animals and that whole thing. When she talked about how she has been documenting the history of animals - and we are animals too - and I started thinking about basically that so much of my work is about documenting a time frame in the world, but most specifically a very strong moment in the cultural history of New York. This time frame ultimately became the cultural history of the world. When all the arts collided, Warhol was hanging around with Halston which was fashion and Debbie Harry and the music scene was involved with Andy. We have music, art, fashion, all the arts all colliding. The arts were sort of coalescing at that time, and you don’t see that today because people are their own tribes. They go, “This tribe is here,” and none of them mix. I mean, it’s not only political, but in all the arenas I think today.
How do you feel about photography today, and how to limit the editions? How you do feel about the use of images, social media and Instagram of today? Well, it’s a real dilemma for me because I’m often doing things like I’ll take a picture with my phone, then I’ll take it with a little small camera, and then because I’m not really sure if my pictures with my phone are really sketches for something that I’m going to do later. If it is a project because I always feel the phone pictures are such small files that I can’t really do anything. But it goes back to my feelings about being in the moment that sometimes the phone is so accessible because I for the longest time sort of resisted that. I didn’t think that phone pictures were really pictures, but they are. They are capturing moments, I appreciate the way that David Hockney plays with imagery now. He’s all over the map with all of this Instagram. I like all the new things that have come about to push the artistic scope. I mean, I was reading about 5G, and that’ll change everything because information will move so much faster than it is now, which means that there’d be more time to be even more creative. I often talked about how having a big printer and digital cameras. The lag time between an abstract idea and something that you can actually touch is so much shorter. You now have some many options because you can take a picture with this IPHONE or a camera.
Did your subjects and friends shift or influence your way of looking through the lens? Well, I think typical influences would really be Man Ray and Warhol at that time period because it was less about editing and more about capturing everything you see. Because now a lot of people edit in the camera, or they spend a lot of time editing. And I was kind of taught or inspired not to edit so much but just be here then or be there at the moment and capturing. You wanted to be present and know what was going on there and worry about it later. Yeah, being present. Did you teach Warhol how to use the camera? I pretty much taught him how to take pictures. I mean how to focus. I mean, we have a whole group of pictures. That if you look at my contact sheets and then you look at his, it’s the same picture. The show we are considering doing this year is an exhibition called “Double Take.” It’s called “Double Take” because we’re talking about that I taught Andy how to take pictures. On our whole trip to China I would say, “Take this picture.” And we both have the same exact pictures. We have that access to that archive and will create this dialogue. I gave him the idea about all the stone photographs. The exhibition titled “Contact Sheets” in Berkeley with a catalogue where Richard Meier and Peggy Fallon discussed
So tell me a little bit about the drawing show that you’re doing that is coming up in California? Andy taught me how to draw—It will be a drawing show. Drawings are a narrative outside of your photography completely… or are they informed by your photography? It is informed by my photography because all these are photos that I then drew. Can you speak about your many celebrity images and what surrounds us here in the studio? The material is from when I worked for Interview Magazine. And so that material you see on the wall comes from this period. Every month I had two pages to do whatever I wanted, and so with that, I’d always be looking to do something like what would be the theme of the month. These were published in February which is Valentine’s
Day, and so I said, “Andy, when John comes over or Liza, I want you to kiss them, and then I’m going to publish them in the February issue.” So there is a story behind all my pictures, and they speak to my autobiography. The neat thing is a lot of people write their autobiography, and then they’ve got to go find the pictures. I already have the pictures. You just needed to tell the stories. Can you speak about the image with Andy Warhol with a red clown nose on? That one with the red nose. Well, that is when we were going to-- that’s pictures from Switzerland during Lent, and of course this was like all Catholics during Lent. They celebrate this episode some sort of wait, and we were at some party, and that’s a red plastic nose With the new series of Hilton Brothers MakoSolberg and the series and the collaborations, are you digitally enhancing, or using traditional techniques. Can you speak about your process? One that they start at is single images and then because Paul Solberg was involved and I’m involved, we kind of mashed them up together. We have dialogue, and the images back and forth. We will sit in front of the computer together, and he will sit and play and do something. We’ve been collaborating for about 13 years, and our book the Tyrants and Lederhosen provide an inside view. It is much fun for me, and it’s so enjoyable because it has nothing to do with Andy. I mean, yeah, I do still sometimes bring him into the narrative. What are your thoughts about the Whitney exhibition on Andy Warhol? Do you feel it honors him? I think it’s an amazing show. Yeah. Oh yeah. He’d love it. I always tell people to get on the elevator, go to the top floor, and walk down. But the thing about the Whitney it’s so distracting, --with their beautiful outdoor verandas, there’s something distracting. Architect Renzo Piano’s building, is great. I love the building. It shows that people get to take a break from looking at art on those verandas, but sometimes I prefer the whole immersion. I know so much of Andy’s work - I love it. I have sent all my friends who don’t know everything about Andy because the exhibition is so comprehensive. Drawings, videos, field clips, and they did a good job. I mean, it’s hard to-- I think for that kind of a show you have to do all the hits for sure, then you have to notice the works that are not seen as the hits and then you see even the obscure. And then Andy has a lot of grand work like the Chairman Mao painting which stand to take over a whole room. Andy simply lives on with all of us now.
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Gallerist Wendy Fritz is reaching new horizons BY ST E P HA N I E B A IL E Y
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endy Fritz has been shaking up the Palm Beach Art scene this season, with a newly launched gallery space, a former 1920’s ballroom renovated by The Frisbie Group. She is dancing her way to now owning one of the largest gallery spaces for exhibition on the island. With 26 foot ceilings and 3 times the space as her former gallery she has taken the island by storm!
The gallery, only established in 2017, started as a by appointment-only space for clients to view such masters as Tom Wesselman, Paul Jenkins, Stanley Bozer, Karl Appel, Robert Raschenberg to name a few. The expansion and move have allowed for the winter play grounders and snowbirds of New Yorkers, Bostonians, Canadians and more to explore this new art-destination during season, and all year round. This year she has noted she is looking to program established and mid to late career artists, who have museum and international recognition and during the summer season will incorporate emerging artists both local and from the New York City area. The course on blue chip and private sales in the gallery are fundamental in her business model. Fritz is clear that she does not feel she needs to exhibit at the arts fairs but is not against considering LA or San Francisco, her home town. The new addition to the Norton Museum is a major bonus to West Palm Beach as is the Ann Norton Sculpture Garden which recently acquired new leadership and has breathed new life into the gardens and their programming. Many young New York artists are moving to West Palm Beach for the affordable housing and to be part of the art scene that West Palm Beach supports. The new high speed Brightline train connecting Miami to West Palm Beach makes for a pleasant one hour train ride. This convenience hopefully will increase the attendance to cultural events between the cities. We sat down to get an insider look at the latest growing art scene shaking up Palm Beach. What inspires you? Artists who have the passion and dedication it takes to put all their energy into their craft. Great dancers, musicians, visual artists, film makers, singers must have the passion and dedication to be successful. It’s in their heart and soul. There are many who have the passion and excellence in their work but will not be recognized for their talent due financial restrictions, lack of connections or a lucky break. I commend all artists who live
and breathe to present their art. These are the people who inspire me. How has your personal taste changed over the years? I have learned to look at everything that comes my direction. New and fresh, even if not pleasing is always welcome. What did you want to be when you were a child? An Olympic Equestrian. I wanted to have a horse farm and ride and train grand prix jumpers. I lived my dream from age 4 to 45 by growing up on a horse farm and showing hunters and jumpers across the country. I loved the life of horse show gypsy. I enjoy going to The Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington to visit my friends who continue to live my dream. Has art always been in your life as an influence? My grandmother, Ann Light who was married to J Paul Getty was a strong influence on me from the time I was a young girl. Her homes in NYC, Nashville, Palm Beach and San Francisco were like museums. My grandmother had impeccable fashion and decoration style. She had couture Valentino, Dior, James Galanos, Norman Norell, Bill Blass, Mary McFadden and many other designer dresses in her closet. I was fortunate to travel with her to Paris, London and Milan. She was, and always will be my style icon. Ann Rork Getty Light
was a silent movie star and my great grandfather, Samuel Rork was a Hollywood producer. I have many of their movies and photographs with famous stars of the early Hollywood era. What inspired me to open my gallery? The art work of my mother, Donna Long inspired me to open a gallery. She began painting in her 60’s at the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach. She quickly won top awards in student shows and soon after had successful shows in San Francisco, Napa Valley and Cortona Italy and the Coral Springs Museum. After the museum show, most of her work went into storage. I was inspired to show her work and thought I would open a gallery and give my mother a show in her home town. This quickly evolved into showing many talented local artists a long with some blue-chip art that I have been collecting. With the 20th Century season totals at the auction houses reaching 1.1 billion USD in sales in November, as a gallerist how do you view these results? The results are strong, and I believe the top tier of paintings will continue to rise as these paintings are a scarce commodity. I think that the contemporary market will flow as the stock market and economy flows. If the stock market remains high, so will the contemporary market and if it has a correction, then the art market will follow.
Where do you predict the art market will be in 10 years? I feel that the trophy paintings will continue to escalate in value regardless of the global economy. The mid-market and emerging market will fluctuate with the global economy. If people have money to purchase art and feel that it is an alternative asset, then the art perceived to have value will be strong in ten years from now. What advice would you give to new gallerists and artists starting out today? I would say, be prepared to work many long hours and be prepared for the digital world. The gallery must have on line sales venues as well as gallery sales. Your work with both emerging artists and the concentrate on blue-chip work from the 70s onward, could you provide to our reader any advice on artists to keep our eye out for? Pat Lipski is one of my favorite artists with her color field, stain paintings from 1968-1975. She was given a solo show by Andre Emmerich Gallery when she was in her early twenties. I also like Mira Lehr’s current environmental work; it is amazing. Both these women artists are in their late careers (in their 80’s) and have been in numerous exhibitions, museums and in major private collections. Both have been overlooked and I feel are a great value.
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Madame Paulette THE COUTURE FASHION DOCTORS BY LILLIAN LANGTRY
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uxury and couture connoisseur John Mahdessian is the president and CEO of renowned cleaning and restoration organization Madame Paulette. The flagship boutique located at 1255 Second Avenue on the Upper East Side is famous for maintaining the world’s most illustrious wardrobes and iconic pieces, including those belonging to Princess Diana, Sir Winston Churchill, Meryl Streep, Beyoncé and Anna Wintour. At the helm of the cleaning and restoration industry, Madame Paulette has held the position of being the finest custom couture cleaners in New York City since 1959. The
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third-generation family-owned company was founded by John Mahdessian’s great uncle to honor his wife, French Courtier Madame Paulette. To maintain her couture pieces, John’s great uncle would travel to Paris, France for exclusive cleaning and restoration services. Deciding the trek was no longer worth the trouble, he decided to build the luxury cleaning business at home. Sixty years later, John Mahdessian has grown the family business into a global enterprise, becoming a cornerstone of the couture fashion industry.
Highly trained garment experts at Madame Paulette clean, restore and tailor client’s expensive, embroidered clothing items that an average cleaner may not accept nor can clean. Services include: bridal, vintage & couture, designer apparel, leather, suede plus fur maintenance, interior cleaning, restoration, as well as, accessories and other special services unique to client needs. Travel without luggage by utilizing the Destination Valet service, which offers the ability to have clothing picked up from anywhere in the United States, cleaned, pressed, custom packed and shipped to any destination in the world. After a comprehensive analysis and consultation, the team of specialists will make all necessary arrangements to ensure efficiency, convenience and satisfaction with any of Madame Paulette’s special services.
The Interior Cleaning & Restoration Service offers the same premium quality for custom interior textiles and home furnishings in your residence, including textiles within yachts and private planes. Madame Paulette expertly cleans, restores, and protects textiles and furnishings to ensure that belongings are well cared for, and that your home is kept free of dust and pests, restored after water, fire and smoke damage or treated for air purification and ionization. John Mahdessian has adapted Madame Paulette’s patented process and proprietary formula into a safe and easyto-use Professional Stain Removal Kit. When something spills, drips and stains, the unique, eco-friendly formula cleans the finest apparel and textiles. The Professional Stain Removal Kit
is a perfectly sized gift, or a must-have amenity at any capacity; for interior spaces or clothing items. For companies and offices looking to boost brand recognition, the Madame Paulette Professional Stain Removal Kit is also a unique branding tool when emblazoned with company logos. Stains are unforeseeable, and your company’s custom designed Professional Stain Remover will rescue cherished items for clients, customers and stakeholders. Madame Paulette, 1255 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10065 stainkit.com Facebook & Instagram: @MadamePaulette
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Hong Kong THE HISTORY OF A GLOBAL ART HUB BY ST E P H A N I E B A I LE Y
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ong Kong’s art scene is far from a recent phenomenon, even if the city’s dazzling cultural transformation – catalyzed by the transition of Art HK into Art Basel’s Asian flagship in 2013 – has somewhat eclipsed the story of this city’s artistic evolution. The first art gallery operated here on Chatham Road between 1962 and 1966; run by schoolteacher Dorothy Swan, it was where artists could exhibit beyond the City Hall, one of the few exhibition spaces at the time. In 1974, a crew of University of Hong Kong students and graduates registered as the Visual Arts Society, among whom was Gaylord Chan, who had switched to art after working as a telecoms engineer for Cable & Wireless. Most artists had day or night jobs back then. Hon Chi Fun, the celebrated Circle Art Group co-founder, who recently passed away, worked for the Post Office – a remarkable fact, given the momentum of the group at the time. Between 1958 and 1971, members ‘showed over 40 times within and outside Hong Kong’, including at the 1961 São Paulo Biennale and the 1971 India Triennial in New Delhi, wrote Fionnuala McHugh in theThe South China Morning Post in 2016. Last year, Hon was celebrated in the Ben Brown Fine Arts booth in the Kabinett sector at Art Basel Hong Kong, and is being honored this year with ‘Story of Light’, a retrospective exhibition at Asia Society that will run from March 12 to June 9.
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James Isherwood, Reach of Horizon, 2018 - 2019, Acrylic on panel, 14 x 1525
James Isherwood, The Yearning Season, 2018, Acrylic on paper, 22.75 x 30 inches
Rachel Burgess, Icy Dawn, 2018, Monoprint, 37 x 26 inches
A Sense of Place NEW WORK BY RACHEL BURGESS & JAMES ISHERWOOD
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usan Eley Fine Art is pleased to present A Sense of Place: New Work by Rachel Burgess & James Isherwood, opening on Thursday, February 28, with a reception from 6-8 pm, and remaining on view through April 11. The exhibition features monotypes by Rachel Burgess and paintings on wood panel and paper by James Isherwood.
This exhibition is Burgess’s second one at SEFA, following the success of In the Meeting of Rock and Sea (2017). Her work has been featured with SEFA at the REVEAL Art Fair in Saratoga Springs, NY (2018); and at Art Toronto (2018). Isherwood, a Gallery Artist since 2008, has been featured in many group and two-person exhibitions at SEFA, including Finding Arcadia (2008), Architectural Musings (2012) and Elements of Domesticity (2014), along with art fairs in Miami, Toronto and New York. Most recently, a suite of his paintings hung in Winter Selects Silvermine, a group show guest-curated by Susan Eley at the Silvermine Arts Center, New Canaan, CT (2019).
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Izabela Gola
Izabela Gola Portrait. From personal archives.
A VISUAL ARTIST AND AN INDEPENDENT CURATOR
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zabela Gola is a Brooklyn based visual artist and an independent curator.
Izabela works with multimedia narrative environments which explore ideas revolving around memory and identity displacement evoked by a relation between a figure and a landscape. The fragility of porcelain represents the ephemerality of remembering, making the object into a surrogate for memory, while the ideas of a sequence and repetition references its fluidity. The images on porcelain, narrating desires and anxieties associated with events, characters,
and landscapes, are being fractured by mirror reflections or are illuminated by LED lights. The sculptures are in result materialized memories mediated through objects and narratives. Consequently, Gola points toward an agonized, constantly negotiated representation, a container for memory, or its absence thereof—its vacuum or negation. Izabela’s selected exhibitions include MoMA (New York, NY), Hudson Valley MOCA (Peekill, NY), Peninsula Art Space (Brooklyn, NY), or One Art Space (TriBeCa, NY). Izabela is also an independent curator of visual arts. Her upcoming show will open on April 5 at One Eyed Studios in Bushwick, and will feature
© Photo courtesy of Izabela Gola
a special performance, sculpture, painting and video art by Katya Grokhovsky, new paintings by Sarah Nicole Fuhrman and Izabela’s new porcelain sculpture. Izabela works for the Polish Cultural Institute New York as a curator of Visual Arts and Design programming, where she operates in the field of public and cultural diplomacy in close collaboration with cultural institutions like Hudson Valley MOCA, WantedDesign, Frieze Art Fair, the Armory Show, The Kitchen, or city institutions like NYC Parks.
Satellite 01-03 to The Blue Kid: For That Which is Not There. 2015. Porcelain, glaze, mirror, metal, combined media. From personal archives. © Photo courtesy of Atiyeh Sadeghi
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Terri Kahan
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erri Kahan Fine Art is a private art advisory firm based in the heart of Manhattan’s upper east side, specializing in Modern and Contemporary Art. The firm was founded in 2001 by Terri Kahan and provides advisory services for private and corporate clients, including architects, decorators, designers, real estate developers, family of-fices and art funds, working with seasoned and emerging collectors alike. Terri’s interest in the art world started at a very early age. A native New Yorker, she grew up surrounded by art. Both parents have been prominent dealers and avid collectors. Alexander Kahan dealt in PostImpressionist and Modernist work for over sixty years. He was involved in publishing the graphic works of Karel Appel, Alexander Calder, Matta and others, served as the exclusive North American agent for the prints or paintings of numerous artists including Marc Chagall and was instrumental in putting together a number of important collections, in-cluding the The Armand Hammer Collection. Jane Kahan runs the Jane Kahan Gallery. Founded in 1973, the gallery specializes in Modern master tapestries, paintings and prints, and is a member of FADA (Fine Art Deal-ers Association), IFPDA (International Fine Print Dealers Association), and CINOA (Confédération Internationale des Négociants en Oeuvre d’Art).
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Ms. Kahan received her B.A. from Brandeis University, studied art history at N.Y.U. and spent many years working for a number of leading auction houses and galleries, including Christie’s, Jane Kahan Gallery, Alexan-der Kahan Fine Arts and Gagosian Gallery. She then went on to obtain her MBA from Columbia University and subsequently founded and launched one of the first online art businesses called Onview. com, which worked with 300 of the most globally prominent fine art galleries. The site was ranked by Forbes magazine as its “Fa-vorite” in its Best of the Web issue. She also completed the certificate program from NYU in Fine and Decora-tive Arts and is an appraiser qualified in the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). Ms. Kahan launched TKFA in 2001 out of a desire to assist collectors in what can often times be the intimidating and difficult process of navigating the complex international art market. Her goal has been to make the process of learning about and collecting art both enjoyable and easy. Ms. Kahan keeps abreast of the market by visiting galleries and dealers, traveling to art fairs and attending auc-tions, bringing this wealth of knowledge gained to her clientele.
Creative Culture BY R ACH E L VA N CE LE T TE
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U WEN is the Co-Founder of the Creative Culture innovation project with EU-China, Partner of the Chinese National Institute of Cultural Development and a member of Culture-Media Europe. She is deeply committed to promoting integrative development of creative cultural industries, promoting multiple projects between China and Europe. She serves on the board of the “16+1 China with Eastern Europe” in the creative ‘think tank.’ Can you talk about the common mission and theme of the cultural and creative industries? UNESCO defines “culture” as a set of unique spiritual, material, intellectual and emotional characteristics of a social or social group, including creative groups from radio, film, animation, audio and video, media, visual arts, performing arts, crafts and design, sculpture, environmental art, advertising and decoration, fashion design, software and computer services. The bridge between Europe and China brings 27 artists from over 15 countries and is a considerable achievement. How is this new cultural exchange gathered? Chinese artists combine traditional art with modern and contemporary paintings to give their work a deeper artistic appeal. Artists from Spain,
Ireland, France and Korea incorporate cultural imprint the poetic sensibilities of the era. We hope that by hosting this exhibition, more Chinese contemporary art lovers can get a close look at European contemporary art and feel the charm of the birthplace of Western culture and art. What are the future missions and goals of this exhibition? Shanghai is flourishing with creative energy and cultural fusion, revealing a unique blend of East and West that matches the city’s unique history. The main topics of the exhibition include the integration of art and science and the relationship between individuals and public spaces. Can you discuss your role in guiding financial investment and provide some tips on what Chinese artists audiences should pay attention to during each exhibition, since many artists may be unfamiliar with international audiences? Market and capital are very important for the sublimation of art and art values; whether it is Paris in the 1930s or New York in the 1960s and 1970s, without the involvement of capital, academic art that cannot become world art. I think the art industry must be supported by the national tax system, in order to establish a system of art finance. Chinese artists are now presented
with the opportunity to engage in cross-border cooperation between finance and art. If a visitor is unable to view the exhibition in person, what do you want people to know about your mission? If important factors such as the intellectual property rights of the work are abandoned, from the reprinting of magazine books to the Internet VR and live broadcast technology, the exhibition site may be the only way to see the works of art. We hope more people can experience the creative culture through this exhibition. What do you want the audience to leave with when visiting the exhibition in person? “Feeling with heart”- Sometimes, people think that they can’t understand the current contemporary art exhibition because the art of our time has gone beyond the aesthetic and styling issues, and more focused on showing the artist’s views and thinking, etc. The interaction between art and the audience becomes less intuitive than “beauty”. But in the final analysis, art always needs to be conveyed through the senses. creativeculture.eu Globetrotter Travel Series Tip: TBD Instagram: @rvancelette
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SohoMuse A CREATIVE NETWORK FORGES AHEAD WITH FOUNDER CONSUELO VANDERBILT COSTIN AT THE HELM!
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onsuelo Vanderbilt Costin is creating change with her latest venture, SohoMuse, a private invitation network. Forging her own pathway to assist creatives in the inspired industries she loves, stems from a long career as a singer and songwriter. When meeting Consuelo one finds a very down to earth, approachable and very genuine creative mind whose ambition is to originate space for both aspiring and influential professionals in the entertainment, fashion, and arts communities. One can sense the spirit and drive of the bloodline continues today, as she forges new pathways and innovation in the virtual world. A seventh-generation descendant of shipping and railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt and third-degree greatniece of the Consuelo Vanderbilt, Duchess of Marlborough, Consuelo continues to forge ahead. Her father, a consultant and life coach to professionals in the entertainment industry, her mother, a photographer specializing in family portraiture and her husband Rafael Feldman, known for his film and television work, all propel her creativity which can be seen from the get-go. Launched in 2017, SohoMuse aims to become the first and foremost trusted community and portfolio platform for creative professionals. Celebrities and noted stars including actresses, makeup artists and even the famous Instagram cat Chopupette Lagerfeld(Karl Lagerfeld’s cat) have graced the platform; also including, of course, human member Ashley Tschudin, known for creating the viral sensation! Consuelo is in the works to produce a new TV show called “Autograph” featuring the members and their work, up close and personal. The show will be focused on speaking to creatives about their path to success and their top influences, mentors and
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inspiration. We sat down with the entrepreneur to gain some insight into SohoMuse SohoMuse is noted as a trusted online platform and community for creative professionals to connect with one another to seek present and newly discovered talent. Can you discuss your inspiration for creating the platform? The idea was really born from a need. I was working on an album in London and commuting to Germany to perform in a rock band. My schedule was all over the place and I was getting home very late at night, completely wired and wanting to create, looking for inspiration and dying for someone to collaborate with. It was so obvious to me... we needed a place where artists could find that inspiration and collaborate with other artists at all hours of the day and night. And not just other musicians and songwriters, but choreographers and dancers, painters and writers, actors and filmmakers... everything all in one online space! The allure of an invite-only and a referralbased invitation-only process to be a part of the Soho Muse exclusive membership is an exciting idea to creatives. Most potential members come from industries that
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themselves can be very private, what is the process to join? Artists are invited to join by other members. SohoMuse is a community for creative professionals, and we rely on and entrust our members to be selective in those they invite to join. When a member invites another to join, they are forever identified as the person who invited that new member, so there is a measure of accountability as well. Artists may also request an invitation directly through our website. They must complete an online form and provide links to their work for consideration. Is there a vetting committee that reviews the applications? When one is accepted, is it the platform subscription based? Yes, for artists who request an invitation through our website, we do have a committee that reviews their work and vets the candidates to ensure they are working professionals. SohoMuse is a ‘freemium’ subscription model and we are currently in BETA. going live in January. Moving forward, there will be a free basic membership, as well as upgraded premium memberships with additional features, higher storage limits, unlimited media and portfolio galleries with distribution of content.
With the digital landscape of social networking changing and expanding, what is your long-term mission for Soho Muse? Our long-term goal is to become the hub for the global Creative Industry - the go-to resource for Creatives from all eleven verticals. We want our members to feel inspired to create new work, to procure new job opportunities and build projects while SohoMuse helps to promote their work. Multiple creative specialties and industries work and use different ways of presenting artwork, portfolios, music etc., what tools on your platform differentiate it from other platforms? First of all, since many creatives work in more than one specialty, SohoMuse enables members to list multiple occupations. They can then be searched for under any of their professions. Same goes for multiple locations, as many creatives work as local hires in more than one city or even country. Members can also have multiple portfolio galleries to showcase their various types of work. For example, a director can have a gallery for commercial work and another for feature films. A visual artist can have separate galleries for sculpture, landscapes and abstracts. A dancerchoreographer can have separate galleries for both, and so on. This way they can be everything
they are in one place... one profile. With our custom privacy settings, members have complete control over each piece of media within their portfolio and who is able to view that content. It’s also fully mobile, making it very easy for members to create and organize their portfolios from anywhere and on any computer or mobile device. We also have a concierge service providing industry trade-related information and that makes introductions for our members and helps to build their teams and projects. Are there different layout tools for visual artists, designers, artists, musicians, fashion designers, stylists etc? Can you speak about the tools on the platform? There are not presently different tools for different types of artists. We have created the bones in the platform so that any creative can showcase and build their profile in the most powerful way truly representing their artistic sensibility. Creatives do multiple different things. SohoMuse is a place where they can be all of those things in one place. The full suite of tools is available to all members, but certain features will not appear on a member’s profile when left blank because they don’t apply to that type of artist. For example, if a member does not have a need for a portfolio, they simply do not upload any media and no portfolio tab will appear on their profile. Even our custom resume builder has, for example, standard ‘experience’ or ‘production experience’. We have more ground to cover but we have focused heavily on versatility to accommodate all of the various creative fields.
instrument so that you get an understanding of melody and structure. Become a true master of your craft, because that is the only way you will have the confidence to stay true to yourself and trust your instincts in a world where everyone has an opinion and will try and shape you and your career in one way or another.
critical as a tech company to stay ahead of the curve and so we are constantly monitoring the tech sector for new methods that will benefit our members in a variety of ways.
With the changes in technology, do you see blockchain and other technologies integrating into SohoMuse and being part of the future of your platform? Absolutely. We see many practical applications for blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning and more. We have formed a strategic partnership in China with a blockchain company called Primas to help battle digital theft... something that has been a huge problem within the Creative Industry since the dawn of digital. Also, we are investigating blockchain companies focusing on residuals and royalty tracking. We believe it’s
We hope members gain a real sense of community and belonging. We want them to feel when they log in that they are coming home to a place where they are safe and free to create and to express themselves, where they can find other artists for inspiration and collaboration, and where they can expand their network, increase their exposure and discover new opportunities.
What do you hope a member gains by being part of the Soho Muse community?
If you have one word to describe Soho Muse, what would it be? Creativity.
You are an entrepreneur who began your career as a singer-songwriter with great success and have landed major record deals while travel worldwide performing to audiences. What advice to do you give to people just starting out in their career? Do it for love, and not fame or fortune. Keep a journal. Write down all of your thoughts as though nobody will ever read them. All art is creative expression and you need those detailed records of your experiences in order to share your life - your soul - through your art form. If you’re in music, master an
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Long Island Univ. LO N G I S L AND H I GH S CH O OL ST U DEN TS PITCH T HEIR BU SIN E S S PLA NS BY ROSSANA WEITEKAMP
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ore than 100 simulated businesses created by nearly 2,000 high school students in over 80 schools will compete for the best business plan, showcase their companies and vie for business awards during Virtual Enterprises’ Long Island Regional Conference and Exhibition at Long Island University. Virtual Enterprises International (VE) is a national educational nonprofit that annually provides more than 15,000 students with the opportunity to create and run virtual business ventures in 430 schools across the country. Through the program, students take on corporate titles, create a business, and conduct transactions with other
simulated businesses around the world. VE is part of a global network of 7,500 virtual, student-run businesses in more than 40 countries that train an average of 200,000 people per year. VE solves one of the biggest challenges facing education and the economy today: providing and preparing students with the best career and college-readiness experience possible. Many students don’t feel prepared for the working world. Students who do feel prepared for work may be less ready than they realize. Alternatively, they may be prepared for work that no longer exists. At a time when only 43 percent of employers surveyed in the NACE Job Outlook Study feel students are prepared with the professionalism and work ethic needed for
careers, VE’s apprenticeship model helps students identify a career path, experience 21st-century business, and management skills first hand, and shape their college journey. When compared to other high school students throughout the U.S., VE students reported a higher likelihood of going to college, feeling better prepared for it, and were able to identify possible future career interests. High school students who have created simulated businesses throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. A few from New York City and Bermuda will be in attendance as well. Attendees Nick Chapman, President, Virtual Enterprises, Event judges and VE teachers, Ellen Palazzo, Regional Director of Virtual Enterprises.
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The European Group Travel Awards DIGITAL ROYALTY COME OUT FOR CHARITY
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he biggest names in digital travel came out in Berlin on Thursday night, March 7th. Everyone assembled at the 5 star Intercontinental Hotel over the world’s biggest travel event, ITB, to raise money for charity and celebrate the best in the group travel space. Thousands of Euros were raised and donated to Terre Des Hommes, EGTA’s 2019 charity partner, who aims to save children around the world.
Beautiful people from Expedia, Translations.com, Hotels. com, Tripadvisor, Booking.com and Ctrip, among others attended the annual event hosted by Meetings.com and Hotelplanner. Clever and witty MC, Dylan Ratigan, lead the charge in this celebratory night offering art, neon, dancing and their hallmark lineup of musical entertainment. Guests were entertained till the wee hours by The Skating Penguins, Stars in Concert, DJ Tall Paul, and the event’s headliners: electropop duo, Breathe Carolina.
“Congratulations once again to this year’s winners and runner-ups in each respective category,” -Tim Hentschel
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Ian Mellencamp, Princess Jazmin Grimaldi, and Naera Kim
Spotlight THE NEW YORK SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO CHILDREN WITH JULIANNE MICHELLE
WOMEN FOR WO M E N I N TERN AT I O N A L (W F WI ) Founded in 1993, WfWI helps underserved women affected by war and conflict rebuild their lives through a year-long tiered program that begins with direct financial aid and emotional counseling and includes life skills (e.g., literacy, numeracy) training if necessary, rights awareness education, health education, job skills training, and small business development. Connect @womenforwomen
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ART SHE SAYS MAGAZINE LAUNCH PARTY BENEFITING WOMEN FOR WOMEN INTERNATIONAL, FRIDAY, MARCH 8, 2019 On International Women’s Day, a curated group of celebrities, artists, photographers, art dealers and collectors, and designers celebrated the launch of ART SHE SAYS, the first online magazine for women in the arts, at Space Gallery St Barth. The debut issue features 16 emerging and established female artists in an effort to make noise in a traditionally male-dominated industry. A portion of all art sales from the evening benefited Women for Women International, a non-profit humanitarian organization that supports the most marginalized women in countries affected by conflicts and war. womenforwomen.org artshesays.com
Julianne Michelle is an award-winning actress whose career began at the age of 5. She is currently playing Max in the new Amazon series, New Dogs, Old Tricks. Â Instagram: @realjuliannemichelle Twitter: @julmichellejulmichelle
Guests with artist Luciana Pampalone and Julianne Michelle Photo credit: David Warren
ART SHE SAYS founder/Editor-in-Chief Eliza Sara Ali (center) with guests
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PALM BEACH SOCIAL SCENE
PANTONE FOUNDER LAWRENCE HERBERT’S 90TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION AT MAR A LAGO By Clara Morgan
Pantone founder Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party at Mar a Lago, Palm Beach, Florida: Lawrence Herbert with girlfriend Valentina Kraver ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Cathy Fogel, Richard Herbert, and a Gatsby Girl at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Lisa Herbert and Robert Landon Winter at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Alex Herbert and Taylor Herbert at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Rick Friedberg and Francine Lefrak at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Lawrence Herbert and Loren Herbert at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Lawrence Herbert and Dame Jill Sackler at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Colleen and Gary Rein at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
Lawrence Herbert and Bonnie Pfeifer Evans at Lawrence Herbert’s elaborate Gatsby 90th Birthday party ©Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com
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LA SOCIAL SCENE 2019 ACADEMY AWARDS, GBK’S LUXURY GIFTING LOUNGE By Clara Morgan
In honor of the 2019 Academy Awards, GBK’s Luxury Gifting Lounge presented the hottest items & trips to Hollywood’s biggest names and rising stars, Beverly Hills, CA: Oscar Winner Peter Farrelly, GBK CEO Gavin Keilly ©Maury Phillips
Oscar Winner Jimmy Chin at the 2019 Academy Awards, GBK’s Luxury Gifting Lounge ©Gilliam Perry
Emmy Winner Adina Porter at the 2019 Academy Awards, GBK’s Luxury Gifting Lounge ©Murray Phillips
Oscar Winner Spike Lee at the 2019 Academy Awards, GBK’s Luxury Gifting Lounge ©Jerry Digby
Oscar Winner Diane Warren at the 2019 Academy Awards, GBK’s Luxury Gifting Lounge ©Will Roberts
Emmy Winner Craig Robinson at the 2019 Academy Awards, GBK’s Luxury Gifting Lounge ©Chris Carlisle
Lady Gaga attends the Vanity Fair Oscar Party 2019, Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beverly Hills, CA ©Getty Images
Glenn Close attends the Vanity Fair Oscar Party 2019, Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beverly Hills, CA ©Getty Images
Liam Hemsworth and Miley Cyrus attends the Vanity Fair Oscar Party 2019, Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Beverly Hills, CA ©Griffin/FilmMagic March 2019 | 119
NEW YORK CHARITY SCENE
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BLUE JACKET FASHION SHOW BENEFITTING THE PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION By Clara Morgan
Judy Gold at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
Mario Cantone at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
Sonja Morgan at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
Luann de Lesseps at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
Simon Doonan at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
Reshema Kemps-Polanco and Rick Davis at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
Dominic Fumusa at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
Harry Lennix at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
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Edwin Hodge at the Blue Jacket Fashion Show benefitting the Prostate Cancer Foundation at Pier 59 Studios, NYC ©Getty Images
ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM