Metropolitan February 2023

Photography by Pawel Litwinski

FROZEN IN TIME

Boots: Victor de Souza

Photographer: Luciana Pampalone

Styled by: Montgomery Frazier "TheImageGuru" @sohomuse

Makeup: Kristina Foreman

Hair: Nikki Brenton @mane.wavelength

Models: Cheyenne Metzger, Nicole Mariano, Starr Rybnick

Shot on location in Southampton, NY

Above: Wardrobe and accessories & patent leather high boots by Victor de Souza

Dress by Victor de Souza @sohomusemarketplace

Crown by Luciana Pampalone

Green Woven 3 piece ensemble: Frederick Anderson available @saksonline thru the @sohomusemarketplace

Shoes: Ron Dyce | @theconfessionalshowroom

Dress & shoes: Victor de Souza! Socks: Sock Shoppe

Photography by Pawel Litwinski

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

2023 marks the unveiling of Palm Beach Advanced Aesthetics a brand new MedSpa that I am extremely excited to get behind. Palm Beach deserves a five-star MedSpa that provides regenerative medicine and advanced aesthetic solutions in a gorgeous facility.

Assisting us in providing residents of Palm Beach with the very best ways to look and feel incredible is an amazing medical staff boasting various top doctors including Dr. Charles Pereyra, MD, a leading clinical physician who has conducted extensive research in the use of regenerative medicine, anti-aging and stem cell therapy. Dr. Pereyra takes a regenerative medicine approach to healing injuries, wellness therapies and more. "More recently in our talks with Chase we've been developing products to help aesthetic needs. I feel like having confidence and looking good is a huge part of just being human," says Dr. Charles Pereyra, MD, "we've developed a topical stem-cell product to use on the face, a mask, as well as a micro-needling so it's like the new "vampire facial." The vampire facial used to just be your own blood and micro-needling but now we use the micro-needling from blood and real-live stem cells and the facial is incredible. It is the future of regenerative medicine for aesthetics. So we're going to bring that to the table at Chase's new spa."

The new Advanced Aesthetics MedSpa,is luxurious, cutting edge and top of the industry catering to successful individuals looking to get the most out of a happy, healthy lifestyle. We have a gorgeous luxury lounge with a relaxing waterfall and juice bar that will offer espresso and champagne. Our private clients will also be able to access the very latest in body sculpting, oxygen therapy,IV-vitamin therapy, hormone replacement therapy, lasers, laser hair removal, injectables, fillers, Botox, body toning and massage. In turn, there will be regenerative stem-cell topical creams available to address scars, wrinkles and hair loss. My decision to educate the public on the potential healing value of stem cell therapy is a personal one. My mother suffered from dementia and a variety of physical ailments in her final years and I know these treatments would have been very beneficial to her. Thought leaders like Tony Robbins and Mark Cuban are both major proponents of stem-cell therapy as are many of today's athletes and celebrities. Palm Beach Advanced Aesthetics will be the very best anti-aging and healing facility in the Palm Beach area.Our MedSpa staff will provide the very latest technology, products and services to help everybody look and feel their very best. From body-sculpting to stem-cell therapy and non-invasive injectibles, Advanced Aesthetics will be the gold-standard in the health and beauty industry.

Our Advanced Aesthetics team looks forward to meeting you and helping you achieve all your health and beauty goals in 2023 and beyond. IG: @pbadvancedaesthetics

Enjoy our current issue which celebrates fashion, artists, dreamers and beauty in equal parts.

Cheers!

“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”

—Coco Chanel

EDITOR’S NOTE

Strive for Perfection, but Settle for Excellence - Don Shula

Fifty years ago, Miami Dolphins Hall of Fame Head Coach, Don Shula, the NFL's all-time winningest coach, willed the Miami Dolphin's 1972 team to an unparalleled 17-0 perfect season that culminated with a Superbowl victory. My dad was a fan of Shula from his early days with the Baltimore Colts. I became an ardent Shula and Miami Dolphins fan as well, despite living in New York City. The engine that made those championship Miami Dolphins football teams run was a punishing running back named Larry Csonka who recalls to sports contributor Ira Kaufman, how one man, Don Shula, helped put Miami sports on the map. Csonka's wonderful new memoir "Head On" talks all about the keys to perfection and excellence: hard work, perseverance, and teamwork. A must-read!

Twenty years ago a veteran television writer/producer took a chance on starting a small PR firm in New York (gulp!). Twenty Years later, Adam Kluger Public Relations (adamklugerpr.com) is still one of the most respected, trustworthy, and hardest-working PR/branding firms in New York City, thanks in large part to hard work, perseverance, and teamwork. I'm incredibly proud of and grateful for all the AKPR team members (past & present), friends & family (especially), invaluable strategic partners, and tireless associates who have worked so hard to help us help our clients share their stories, passion, and genius with the world. Helping others who help make the world a better place is a pretty awesome responsibility that we never take for granted.

In January, Television Reporter Diana Falzone followed in a growing line of brilliant, tough, and indomitable women to grace the cover of Chase Backer's industry-leading luxury-arts magazines; iHeartRadio star Xen Sams, Super Model turned Super Mogul Kathy Ireland and single mom turned political activist Kimberly Guilfoyle, are just a few of the other amazing women to share their magic with our readers. These incredible women of power share their secrets to success in our soon-to-launch streaming video show in 2023, Metropolitan Lifestyles on YourHomeTV. com (& ROKU), which will be available to over 100 Million households worldwide. Exciting!

Exciting is also a terrific word to describe the photographic work of French visual artist Franck Gerard who refers to his new Pop Girls series as Retro-Futurism.

As we all eagerly anticipate the successful launch of Palm Beach Advanced Aesthetics, the latest brainchild of our visionary publisher, 2023 is off to a fast start in the pursuit of excellence. Thanks for joining us!

Enjoy!

Adam Kluger Editor in Chief Metropolitan/25A Metropolitan Palm Beach Metropolitan Lifestyles

Today, as an emblem of Tiffany & Co. and a figure who changed the world of jewelry, altering the possibilities of what can be designed from nature’s sight and transformed into emblazoning pieces, Schlumberger’s extraordinary wonders have continued.

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Where peace of mind lives.

Where your financial well-being is priority one, backed by integrity, ethics and a passion for helping clients for nearly 40 years.

Where sound financial strategies create a solid basis upon which to grow wealth, for today and generations to come.

Where we take a side-by-side approach, building our own assets alongside yours.

Where relationships grow with your assets, because you’re so much more than just your portfolio. First Long Island Investors. Where you belong.

Publisher Chase Backer

Editor-in-Chief

Adam Kluger

Assistant Publisher

Jaime Backer

Art Director

Lonee Telemaque

Assistant Editor

Willy Nichter

Sales Manager

Jeffrey Strahl

Copy Editors

Sean Buttimer; Whitney Thompson; Maribel Alvarez; Lillian Langtry; Nicole Ashley Schubert, Norah Bradford

Lifestyle Editor

Elizabeth Langevin

Luxury Editor

Stephanie L. Howitt

Editor at Large | Art, Culture, Fashion

Rachel Vancelette; Douglas Evans

Fashion Photographers

Jason Konrad

Profiles Editor

Alexandra Appino-Tabone

Social Editor

Clara Morgan

Food Editor

Andrea Correale; Maribel Alvarez

Digital Media Director

Nancy Molina

Contributors

Rachel Vancelette, D.D. Rice, Paul Prince, Peter Elston, Johnny Angel, Harry White

Contributing Photographers

Thomas Concordia, Jacques Malignon, David Scarola, Tara Quinn, Jason Konrad, Luciana Pampalone, Michael Gaida, 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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Manhattan, NYC, Milan, Sardinia

POP GIRLS COLLECTION

By Artist Franck Gerard

Photography: David Scarola

VISUAL ARTIST FRANCK GERARD

Franck Gérard is a self-taught French visual artist who lives and works in Angers, France. He explores multiple digital techniques to create art: vector illustration, digital painting, manipulated photography, 3d, artificial intelligence and computer coding. Inspired by the great artistic movements of the 20th century, his approach is to propose new "retro-futuristic" artworks using only digital tools. In addition, Franck Gérard creates artworks, photographs and illustrations on commission for brands in the luxury, fashion and entertainment sectors.

DEBBIE DICKINSON: BACK ON THE RUNWAY

FEELING NOSTALGIC FOR ’70S AND ’80S FASHION?

INTERVIEW WITH AN ICONIC SUPERMODEL

By Katherine R. Sloan

ebbie Dickinson: NYC-based ‘70s –’80s Supermodel turned actress, PR businesswoman and art curator is back in the fashion game ad ready for more. She’s gone back to her modeling roots and now she’s back to hitting the runway at New York Fashion Week with three major shows earlier this month, including Dell Scott, Negris LeBrum and NL Luxury Sock Collection in collaboration with Nigel Barker.

Of course, the world of glitz and glamour is no stranger to Dickinson as she danced with Steve Rubell at Studio 54, hoisted Andy Warhol for a piggyback ride/photo session and partied with Rick James. In America, Dickinson was discovered by Richard Avedon and Polly Mellen and, in France, by Karl Lagerfeld and Guy Bourdin. The rest is history. She has appeared on countless Vogue covers, caught the eye of Julio Iglesias, and modeled for Patrick Demarchlier, Arthur Elgort and Albert Watson (to name a few). She was most memorably captured by Watson in a barely-there white bikini while floating in an inner tube in Africa and holding a transistor radio.

Debbie was the go-to girl for “Electrifying Is Your Dior” and lingerie ads shot by the incomparable Guy Bourdin for the now infamous (and highly collectable) 1976 Sighs and Whispers catalogue for Bloomingdale’s. Along with modeling, she’s most recently been dipping her toe back into the acting pool as well with work on some highly anticipated upcoming New York City projects such as Ryan Murphy’s “Feud” about Truman Capote and his “swans”, (he betrayed with his brilliant confessional “Answered Prayers”). Dickinson’s image has been made eternal in photo shoots as a golden goddess sunning herself in Africa in nothing but a neon orange swimsuit and high heels for American Vogue and as the gamine peering above oversized sunglasses while suggestively sipping a Tab. With the face of a cherub (or the girl next door) and the body of an Amazon, she was the beauty visage for Rouge Baiser Paris, L’Oreal and the sun kissed ’70s dream girl back when magazines were very glossy and fed our most glamorous, over-the-top fantasies.

Dickinson was the first American contract model for Giorgio Armani and not only modeled for but worked alongside Gianni Versace in Italy when he started to embellish his couture with embroidery she found for him in India. She was the head of Versace’s private client sales department at the flagship store on Fifth Avenue where she bolstered sales of his first Atelier collection to A-listers such as Madonna, Elton John, Jennifer Lopez and Carolyn BessetteKennedy.

Today she’s a seasoned professional with gestures like a flamenco dancer, hair tied in a chignon bedazzled with pearls and an evening gown with a skirt that practically flutters across the floor (as seen as she opened the show and finale in Dell Scott’s “Emerge” collection). The makeup and hair was brilliantly created by Odilis Trinidad. Dickinson could also be seen

channeling Twiggy or Jean Shrimpton in a short, brightly colored shift with matching knee socks for the NL luxury sock capsule (in collaboration with Nigel Barker) to kick off New York Fashion Week. She walked the runway in something a bit more classic for Negris LeBrum’s show (a tailored, black ensemble with avant guard slickedback hair style by Wella and crimson lips). Dickinson is back in the fashion game and ready for more.

Q&A with Debbie Dickinson

When you’re walking down a runway, do you try to incorporate some theatricality into it? I would think (especially since you boast an acting background) you might feel like a silent film actress, trying to convey something with only your body and the clothes as language.

D.D. When I'm on the runway it all depends on the look of the design and how I can make it come to life. I have always been an actor trapped in a model’s body so every runway passage or photograph can be a different character. I am known in this industry as “The Chameleon.”

Katherine Sloan: Who was your favorite model to work with out of all your contemporaries?

Debbie Dickinson: The most memorable were Billie Blair, Pat Cleveland and Iman on Runway. In the studio, it was Bitten Knudsen and Peggy Dillard yet I worked with a different model every day.

K.S. Can we get candid about aging, especially as a woman with so much experience in the modeling industry?

D.D. Aging needs to be celebrated in the U.S. as it is in Japan. Women everywhere are facing the discrimination of aging. It is not limited to the modeling industry (as seen in the recent situations with Don Lemon and Nikki Haley, Madonna at the Grammys and Jamie Lee Curtis's stand on pro-aging). It is no different in the modeling world.

K.S. What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

D.D. To live one day at a time with a vision and plan for the future. Build a legacy that services others daily and time is never on your side.

K.S. What do you think of when you want to look serene?

D.D. Prayer, art, ice cream and swimming with dolphins. Many things bring me peace; that is what I surround myself with.

K.S. What’s better about the fashion industry today than, say, in the ’70s when you started out? D.D. I am finally seeing the dissolution of constricted visual advertising, editorial ideas and people. You can finally show who you are without worry of being accepted!

K.S. What’s something you miss about the fashion industry circa mid to late 1970s and early 80s?

D.D. I miss the sumptuous way fashion shows were held in Paris, Tokyo, Milan and Rome yet styles are more wearable with more consistent edit and practicality today.

K.S. Has political correctness made the industry less rebellious hence, less fun?

D.D. When I was modeling couture and prêt-à-porter was evolving, the Japanese designers hit Paris and all kinds of abstract ideas flowed. Yet, last season in Paris and in the art world, truly beautiful designs that were wearable, femme, flowing and flattering hit the scene. So, it’s still fun. As far as political correctness, there’s definitely more sensitivity now that didn’t exist before. And, as far as being safe, you have to really take more concern about the kind of fun you’re having.

K.S. What advice would you give to a young model who is brand new, really green and maybe a little naïve?

D.D. Learn the history of designers. Take care of your health; nightclubs rob you of your beauty, resulting in the lack of editorial coverage. Nightclubbing robs the bright beauty that a model possesses so they lose out on the best editorial photo shoot when their looks start to fade from not getting a good night’s sleep!

K.S. Favorite personal runway moment ever?

D.D. There is a wealth of experiences so that is like fishing a needle out of a haystack but three that stand out are:

• Working and dining with Issey Miyake in Paris, New York and Tokyo.

• Yves St. Laurent when he grabbed my face and exclaimed, “Mon bébé!”

• When I was asked by Giorgio Armani to not wear makeup prior to showing up for his runway show and it took him a minute to recognize me when I was waiting for my turn on the runway because he has never natural face. We both had a big laugh because I was his first contract model. There are too many moments.

K.S. What is trending in beauty culture right now that you find really exciting?

D.D. Designer eyeliner, geometric patterns created to accentuate eyes, softened ’70s makeup that still has a touch of glitz to it and that wrinkles are finally being accepted.

Supermodel Actress Debbie Dickinson at Dell Scott Backstage 2023 - NYFW

Beauty Photo: Joseph Dalton | @ newyorkjoseph

Hair and Makeup: Odilis Trinidad

Debbie Dickinson in NL Luxury Sock

Capsule Pink Mini with matching Designer

NL Socks 2023 - NYFW

Photo by Max Flores | @maxflores_official

Debbie Dickinson in Custom Dell Scott, Dell Scott Collection, Black Pearl and Crystal

Trim Petal Gown - Show Opener - Dell Scott Runway Opening 2023 - NYFW

Photo by: Keith McCutheon | KLM

Photography LLC

@letmecapturetherealyou

Debbie Dickinson in Custom Dell Scott, Dell Scott Collection, Black Pearl and Crystal

Petal Gown Finale with designer Dell Scott 2023 NYFW

Photo by: Keith McCutheon | KLM

Photography LLC

@letmecapturetherealyou

Debbie Dickinson in Negris Leblum

Collection Runway Show 2023 NYFW

Photo by: Doug Mitchell Photos

Malan Breton Presents

The Fantome of New York Fashion Week

By Pauline Lavoie

Renowned fashion designer Malan Breton presented his breathtaking Autumn Winter 2023-24 Collection: “Fantôme at the Lemán Ballroom during New York Fashion Week. Singularly sensational, the showcase bore the title of “Fantôme.”

This stunning collection played off the sensitive themes of conscience, hope, night, day, and human desire. The musical score driving the fashion show was Efisio Cross. The models Hair was styled by Award Winning British Hairdresser Philipp Haug, owner of Haug London Haus Salon, with the Schwarzkopf Pro Team. Beauty by Team Marcello Costa. Jewelry was provided by Illumin Designs.

Declared “The Most Influential Designer You’ve Never Heard of” as declared by “British Vogue” Malan Breton is one of the more powerful forces of nature in the fashion world. He has a celebrity following which includes Emma Thompson, Janelle Monae, Saweetie, Priyanka

Chopra, Brenda Song, Hanna Waddingham, Kat McNamara, Martha Plimpton, Minnie Driver and George Takei to name a few.

Breton’s aesthetic was developed as a ballet dancer, actor, costumer, and director in film, and TV. Having directed three award winning properties and producing his own TV show on BRAVO TV. This inspiration is an important part of the design process for Breton, who writes a movie script each season, and designs fashion for his characters, composes music, creates animations, and visual esthetics, to tell a story that will follow the collections to their vendors all over the world.

Fantôme was produced as part of EPN New York Fashion Week. The series of shows are highly regarded as the most fascinating and elegant shows during New York Fashion Week and held at the most elegant and unique venues in the city.

Notable attendees at the show included; Malan Breton, Irina Pantaeva, Sean Young, Baayork

Lee, Ray Angry, Jan Sport (RuPaul’s Drag Race), Broadway Director Jerry Mitchell, Jean Shafiroff, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Marc Bouwer, Thomas Farley, Michael Musto, Orfeh, Andy Karl, Olivia Arben, Ian James, Idris Veliu, Christopher

Elliot, Charlii Sebunya, Angel Pai, Mimi Tao, Crystle Stewart, Noah Fosse, Emma Snowden

Jones, Raban Freiherr von Arnim, Allison Ecung

Freifrau von Arnim, Cynthia Basinet, Nadja Sayej, Jose Castelo Branco, Pamela Morgan, Stephanie Simon and Silvia Frieser.

“British Fashion Council – LFW,” noted that Malan is: "One of the most versatile names in the fashion scene, known for his work as an actor, film director, costume designer, columnist, musician, and model.” Compelling outlines and shapes in day, evening, and red-carpet wear captivated the audience at the show Presented by EPNNYFW. The show also included his famous suiting, which has been featured by celebrities on the red carpets of the BAFTAS, The AMA’s, TONY Awards, to the Emmys, and the Academy Awards. Some of Breton’s favorites include Billy Porter, Janelle Monae, Lorde, Priyanka Chopra, Saweetie, Darren Chriss, Little Mix, among others.

Known for his experiential fashion shows, his sense of artistry has been stylishly celebrated in recent years. Breton recently won the

2021 London Fashion Film Festival award for co-directing the fashion film “IMMORTAL” an official selection of the Cameramoda, Cinecitta produced 2022 Fashion Film Festival Milano. And, in 2022 Malan Breton received four honors during Her Majesty the Queen’s 70th Jubilee Celebrations for his work in fashion technology, and philanthropy by the Parliamentary Society of Arts, Fashion, and Sports, an organization that is spearheaded by members of UK parliament to open a productive dialogue between artists, and politicians. Malan Breton also enjoys the honor of being one of few international designers invited to present his collections privately to the British Royal Family.

For more information, please visit www.malanbreton.com

THREE GAME CHANGERS FOR GETTING DRESSED

By Alexis Posada TeStrake

A Wardrobe White Board

The Scenario:

The pants are perfect, but after trying on four tops, you realize the look requires a specific style you do not own. Ugh!

Outfit change …

Okay, the ensemble you have put together is exquisite, and you have time to spare. Now, the shoes. Where are the shoes? Suddenly you remember that you lent them to your sister, who has yet to return them.

Outfit change …

You pull out the beautiful, pleated skirt you bought for a specific event but never wore because the shirt you had planned to coordinate it with it was (too long, too loose, too … fill in the blank!). How did you completely forget this when you were at the mall last week?

Outfit change …

We have all had these moments.

Enter the wardrobe whiteboard, a go-to guide for work smarter not harder shopping, a better wardrobing experience, and your most fabulous foot forward!

Total Transparency

You cannot style what you cannot see.

While an organized and uncluttered closet is essential, a system that conceals any item of clothing is inefficient. Here’s the Cliff Notes to Marie Kondo:

Use clear bins like these to store items that are out of reach

Roll items in drawers so that you see everything at a glance without rummaging through folded stacks.

Image above by Mike Gattorna from Pixabay

A LIFE-STYLED Closet

The original closet organization system–clothing grouped by category– is not the only way. It is time for a new fashion filing system that considers not only that a clothing category no longer defines an entire dress code situation, but also that women have more roles and moments to dress for than ever before.

Whether you have a walk-in wardrobing space, share a closet, or have your clothing divided among a few, there is a way to make this work for you.

STEP #1 – List your getting dressed situations in descending order from Every Day to Rare Occasion. These are your MAIN CATEGORIES.

An Example for the Palm Beach Professional working 9-5

Work – Your daily basics

Weekend – Linens, casual sundresses, sandals

Daytime Dressy- Think Graduation Celebration or Polo

Casual Night Out – Date Night/ Girls’ Night Out Cocktail to Black-Tie- Those Special Outfits

Travel- Clothes that can withstand flight and time changes with no wrinkle in time

Notes:

*When an item of clothing fits in more than one category, it is lives with the most frequently used category

*You may or may not edit and update seasonally depending on clothing / space ratio

STEP# 2 – Hire a Professional

Years of retail management experience in fashion turned into a boutique business of closet organization. Sometimes you need a professional to stitch all the garment pieces together and set you up for organizational nirvana. At your service: Alexis@altimapalmbeach.com.

YOU WEREN’T TAUGHT ABOUT STAYING IN LOVE

By Ali Maggioncalda

xpectations are higher than they’ve ever been when it comes to love and relationships; today, regardless of whether we choose to get married or not, we want a partner and a teammate who makes us feel deeply understood, appreciated, and desired as we grow together over time. Unfortunately, we spend more time learning how to drive a car than how to cultivate fulfilling romantic relationships, so here are 3 simple tips to keep your relationship healthy, sexy, and fulfilling, all rooted in research:

Journal about the arguments you have, but not as yourself.

Yep, it sounds weird, but research suggests that journaling about a recent conflict in your relationship from the perspective of a neutral, third-party who wants the best for both you and your partner protects your relationship against decline. Now before you start thinking, “I don’t have time for something like this,” think again! Researchers asked couples to journal for just 7 minutes, 3 times a year – that’s basically 20 minutes a year to make a statistically significant difference to your relationship or marriage.

Make sure there’s an element of novelty or excitement on date night.

When researchers randomly assigned couples to “pleasant” vs. “exciting” date night activities, there was a significant increase in satisfaction for couples assigned to the exciting activities, and the suggestion that spending time together of any kind increases relationship satisfaction was not supported. So, find even the smallest ways to inject novelty or excitement into your dates! For instance, turn ordering in and watching something on TV into a “virtual travel date” by theming it to a certain city or country and using food, drink, music, and a movie or show filmed there to “expand” yourselves in a new way, together. If you need some inspiration, Lovewick is a free relationship app for couples with hundreds of curated date ideas!

Share your good news with your partner, no matter how small.

A lot of us, especially women, are worried about being “too much” or oversharing. Well, guess what: sharing positive personal events with your partner, also called “capitalization attempts” in research, is associated with higher relationship satisfaction, higher trust, and better mental health outcomes, not just for the person sharing, but also for the person on the other side listening and receiving it! So, next time there’s “good news” in your life, share it with your significant other, even if it feels irrelevant to them. For example, send a picture of that extra juicy tomato you found in your garden that you’re proud of, and give your partner an opportunity to share in your little moments and wins.

By implementing any one of these tips, much less all three, you make it significantly more likely that you’ll 1) be together next Valentine’s Day and 2) be more satisfied with the quality of your relationship… pretty powerful stuff!

With love(wick), Ali

Ali Maggioncalda is the founder of Lovewick, a free relationship wellness app with the internet’s largest library of intimacy-building questions, date ideas, and research-based tips to help couples love and be loved well. She has a degree in Human Behavioral Biology from Stanford and did her grad school Dissertation on the future of romantic love and technology. You can find more of her nerdy relationship advice across socials @withlovewick.

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LOOKING FOR A ROMANTIC MEAL ON VALENTINE’S DAY? DINE IN A QUEENS IGLOO!

BY QEDC IT'S IN QUEENS

There’s romantic…very romantic…extremely romantic…and F. Ottomanelli

By The Water

romantic.

Longtime Woodside butcher Frank Ottomanelli and his daughter, Tatiani, run the eponymous outdoor café by the waterfront in Hunters Point South Park. They’re offering an outdoor Valentine’s Day dining experience with awe-inspiring views of the East River and the Manhattan Skyline.

The menu features a four-course meal with Prime Angus Filet Mignon, Pan-Seared Salmon, Veggie Burger, and South African Lobster options to go with salad, meatballs, sides, wine, cheesecake, and coffee

Patrons dine among Valentine’s Day-inspired art in cozy, heated igloos which are currently spaced across the roughly 2,000-square-foot area near the East River Ferry Terminal. The price is $250, and the two-hour shifts are available from Feb. 10 at 2 pm to Feb. 14 at 10 pm.

It doesn’t get more romantic than that! Click here for an igloo tour.

Frank and Tatiana come from a famous family of New York City butchers. Frank’s grandfather, Gennaro, left Italy’s Bari to seek the American Dream by selling meat from a Greenwich Village pushcart in the early 1900s. Later, Gennaro and his sons – including Frank’s father Salvatore – founded several Ottomanelli’s butcher shops in Manhattan. Salvatore opened Ottomanelli’s Prime Meat and Wild Game at 61-05 Woodside Ave. in Woodside in 1960. Frank literally grew up in the store, and in 2001, he launched F. Ottomanelli Burger & Belgian Fries, a storefront restaurant about one block away at 60-15 Woodside Ave. (He later incorporated the butcher shop into the restaurant.)

Frank and Tatiani got the concession award from NYC Parks in 2022 and opened F. Ottomanelli By The Water that Memorial Day Weekend. Open seven days a week, the venue sells the famous burgers and other items, such as hot dogs and chicken tenders with vegetarian options. The address is at 52-10 Center Blvd.

Hennessy Beach Collective

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LOVE CHOCOLATE, LOVE VALENTINE’SLOVE THE MARIEBELLE NEW YORK VALENTINE’S DAY 2023 COLLECTION

By Salome Langevin

MarieBelle New York will have chocolate lovers swooning this Valentine’s Day. An enticing new collection celebrates the most romantic day of the year with sumptuous, world class chocolates.

The 2023 Valentine Collection showcases a Turquoise Heart Box ($35) featuring a young captivated couple along with other works of art signifying love. Six handmade ganache and a single red heart highlight a story of romance. Also, to be found from the legendary chocolatier is a 9-piece collection ($31) or 16-piece ($55) nestled in a classic blue box decorated with a stunning Valentine’s Day themed sleeve.

The elegant and divine Valentine’s Day Book Gift Set ($155) serves as a grand gesture of love. The luxurious book-shaped box includes one each of the most desirable treats; Chocolate Clusters; Lavender Heart with Ganache; Praline Bars; Espresso MarieBelle Bar; Cacao Market Rose Petal Bar; Dark Chocolate Rose Tea Tin and a whimsical Tea Strainer.

Each unique gift expresses desire and passion in a beautiful form this Valentine’s Day. Making a perfect gift for lovers and good friends. Purchases can be made at both stores and online.

MarieBelle artisan chocolates are known for their exquisite ganache, hot chocolate, truffles, bars, and other delectable treats presented in artistic packaging, creating memories that last a lifetime. The charming offerings of the chocolatier are an expression of joy and the designs are reflective of a lifestyle that embraces chocolate not just as a sweet treat, but rather a work of culinary art to appreciate and adore.

Make a lasting impression every day of the year with gourmet chocolates and made-to-order selections from artisan Maribel Lieberman. Maribel founded the company over two decades ago and is proud to be a “woman owned business”. She has stayed true to her roots and love of chocolate using cacao from her native Honduras and, as a proud New Yorker (at her Brooklyn factory) handmaking the gourmet ganache with the finest ingredients and all-natural flavors.

For more information about MarieBelle Chocolates, visit www.mariebelle.com/

PALM BEACH FOOD WRAP:

WHERE WE BREAK FOR BREAKFAST!

Where Palm Beach’s Chic Locals Seek their Sunrise Sustenance, Both On- and Off- the Island.

We spoke with Devon McCready co-owner and director of Samuel Owen Gallery in Palm Beach & Nantucket; Alison Newton, Sales Director for Douglas Elliman’s new, waterfront Olara condominium; and P.J. Quick, Hope for Depression Junior Chair and awardwinning filmmaker.

Below, their roadmap to AM fulfillment. And yes, some mentions get second servings!

Best Coffee and Lattes –Sant Ambroeus

It’s not only a beautiful place to meet in the morning, but they know how to make a true, Italian macchiato. – Alison

goods daily. Heavenly! – Devon

Best Croissants – Patrick Leze

Devon McCready, Co-Owner and Director of Samuel Owen Gallery

Alison Newton, Sales Director for Douglas Elliman’s Waterfront Olara Condominium

PJ Quick Pollack, Hope for Depression Junior Chair and Award-Winning Filmmaker

The two French women who run their bakery bake all their

Best

Best

Celis has delicious and nutritious juices that always hit the spot. – Alison

Best

Best

Field of Greens has an entire vegan section of their menu–their vegan scrambles are amazing and super fresh. – Devon

Definitely Sant Ambroeus, I like the avocado toast with the Italian pepperoncini oil. You really feel like you are in Europe.

City Diner has the best omelettes. It’s a classic El Cid spot with unique decor. – PJ

Hive’s new bakery has so many wonderful options, but their avocado toast is surely a standout. – Alison

Best

Field of Greens a locally owned and locally-favored juice bar, hits the spot for acai bowls and fresh wraps. – PJ

Vegan Fix – Field of Greens

Acai Bowl – Field of Greens

European Breakfast –Sant Ambroeus

Juices – Celis Juice Bar

Omelette –City Diner

Best Avocado Toast –HIVE Bakery & Cafe

tán

YOUR NEXT COASTAL MEXICAN ESCAPE

tán A TASTE OF TULUM ARRIVES IN MANHATTAN.

By Sydney Kaplan

Perfect for an upscale date night or special occasion dinner if you’re in the mood for seafood, bold flavors, and a gorgeous interior that appeals to the senses.

Look no further than Midtown East for your next coastal Mexican escape. Chef-Restaurateur Richard Sandoval and Chef Jonatán Gómez Luna Torres have unveiled their latest joint culinary venture: tán, a new restaurant inspired by the vibrant energies of Tulum and the Yucatàn peninsula just in time for the dropping temperatures in New York City.

The escapist atmosphere tàn provides is made possible by not only the hypermodernist, seafood-focused menu and bespoke seafood display, but also by the interior design of the restaurant thanks to the award-winning PeterMax Co. The

lush array of plants that dress the scene paired with the elaborate henequen fiber wall hangings and woven sisal sun screens come together to create an ambiance of travel, heritage, and true coastal fantasy. Its lounge, lúm, which will serve signature Mexican sips and is set to open in late January, is tucked away with coved, cave-like ceilings, and warm candlelight, effectively bringing the soul of Tulum stateside.

Standout dishes include the Aguachile tán (a crispy potato-chorizo taco with shrimp and aguachile verde), the Red Snapper Tikinxic Style, and the traditional Yucatán Pork Belly, with the Bone Marrow and Yellow Corn Cake being customer favorites.

For more information, please visit https:// www.tannewyork.com/.

tán speciality cocktails

MICHAEL LESSING

INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT & COO, LESSING'S HOSPITALITY GROUP

By Adam Kluger

"Our mission is to continue the 130-year tradition of innovation and excellence, providing unique restaurant concepts, exclusive wedding venues, distinctive catering, and skillfully executed management," offers a friendly-but obviously quite busy-- Michael Lessing, President of Lessing's Hospitality Group

The hospitality conglomerate was founded by Maxwell Lessing in 1890 and is operated to this day by 15 Lessing family members. “The company has been going strong for six generations with most recently my son, Mike Jr. and my cousin Lawrence, coming on board.” Lessing says.

The secret to the Lessing family's success?

"We've always focused on being a family business, says Lessing, "and we've built a culture that ensures you don’t have to have the last name ‘Lessing’ to be a part of the family.”

The Lessing family has provided food service to New Yorkers for over 130 years without interruption. Both the longevity and the success of this legacy company are unprecedented. For Michael, upholding and building upon the family legacy is a serious business that requires an extreme attention to team building and corporate culture.

"I have a great team around me. There's an incredible responsibility to running the family business and it's not just about keeping the business alive. It's about growing and diversifying. My job is to develop the company to be bigger and stronger so the next generation can continue to build the legacy."

Lessing's expanded their portfolio to Florida with the Pelican Club, Crane Club at Tesoro, Charlie & Joe's at Love Street, and most recently the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.

"My family and I spend a lot of time in Florida, so the connection was already there,” Lessing says. “We noticed many people visiting from New York and realized our name is well known in the area. Pelican Club and the four restaurants at Charlie & Joe’s at Love Street in Jupiter all overlook a historic lighthouse. I don’t think there’s a better view in all of Florida.”

In 2021, through a partnership with Ellen Hart Sturm in New York City, Lessing’s Hospitality now operates the world-famous Ellen's Stardust Diner & The Iridium. The company is currently comprised of over 100 locations throughout the Northeast and Florida. Lessing’s operates 21 wedding and catering venues, 20 full-service restaurants, 2 pop-up kitchen concepts, over 60 corporate and academic dining centers, and a historic inn.

No matter the state or venue, Lessing’s Hospitality Group always strives to make sure that every employee and guest feels like family.

Website: www.lessings.com

LARRY CSONKA

HEAD ON: MIAMI DOLPHINS FOOTBALL LEGEND LOOKS BACK

By Ira Kaufman  Transcribed and edited from an @iraonsports radio interview

What do you believe was the lasting legacy or impact of the undefeated '72 Miami Dolphins?

In 2019, the NFL voted us the #1 team of the first 100 years of the NFL. That’s impactful. It means a lot when you contrast that against the teams of today. The game has changed a great deal from the time of its inception over 100 years ago. It's hard to compare what's in the past with what's in the present, but the important thing is that it's changing for the better and it's changing for the protection of the players. Back in our day, ball control was the big thing. If you were two touchdowns ahead, the game was kind of over. Today's game is different. The rules have changed to enhance the passing game. Even if you’re 17 points behind at the half, you can come back and win it.

Your preparation for football was working on a farm and hauling feed to a bunch of cows. Would you say those chores helped you become a Hall of Famer?

The physical part, maybe. But my high school principal, Mr. Saltis, made me read football books and study how a team operates. I talk about him quite a bit in my memoir, Head On. He made sure I really understood the game and set me on my path. Understanding the game is probably the biggest first step.

You were drafted out of Syracuse, correct?

Yes, I was drafted by Miami in 1968. I didn’t know much about them. They were a young expansion team. But two years later, when Coach Shula arrived, things changed drastically, and I had that hurdle to jump – he’d never coached a very large running back before. I was 245

Photo by Lisa Ramsay

pounds and the first thing he did was move my weight down, and the second thing we did was get into an argument. Our relationship was something like a tugof-war, I write about it a lot in my book, but we didn't argue all the time. We found a comfortable middle ground where we tolerated each other so we could get our jobs done.

Back then you were the only pro team in the state, which must have been cool. What was it like? Well, it was a coming together of a lot of different things. In the Sixties there was a lot of civil strife going on — racial tensions, and a lot of friction, at least in Miami. But our football team became something to rally around, and the Orange Bowl became a gathering place. Turns out we were something everyone could cheer for. Especially when Coach Shula arrived, and we started to win. I've never seen a more significant unifying factor in a community, that was really at odds with each other, than to have a winning football team right in the heart of Miami. The Dolphins made a difference.

In the early days, they didn't have reserved parking spaces for the players, so you guys were out there tailgating with the fans?

Absolutely, Ira, you hit it right on the head...you talk about enhancing the relationship between the team and the fans...sometimes we’d hang out for a couple of hours after the game, just sitting on lawn chairs in Little Havana and eating hotdogs. It was a great elbowrubbing situation with the fans. We got to know them by name. And we’d sometimes get the kids without tickets into the stadium with us.

Your running mate was Jim Kiick, and then Mercury Morris. It must have been fun to play ball with running backs who you got along with so well. It was me and Jim initially and then, when Shula arrived, Jim was in the lead back position, and I was doing a little more blocking. But then Shula saw the potential. He brought an offensive line coach with him, Monte Clark, and he loved to use the power running game, so it became a mixture, using all three backs. But that only worked if the three backs - me, Jim Kiick, and Mercury Morris - got along. Fortunately, all three of us enjoyed each other's company and there was never any animosity between us. I think Jim and Merc were competitive as far as wanting to get in the game more, but that's a healthy situation. They were close friends. We all wanted to win so whatever it took in terms of sacrifice; we were all willing to do that.

Hall of Fame Wide Receiver Paul Warfield was also on the team. Did you two collaborate?

When Paul first got there in 1970 - on one play, against Buffalo, I did not like the defensive back on the other side of the ball. I was power running up through the middle and at the vanguard of that avalanche of humanity I turned and hit that defensive back at the last second and knocked him silly with all that momentum. When I came back to the huddle Paul Warfield looked at me and said, "Thanks, Zonk." Then he beat that guy on one-on-one coverage the next play because his eyes were still crossed from the earlier impact with me. That's when I discovered how much I could contribute to the passing game by running into the defensive backs downfield.

Coach Shula sometimes had four practices a day and didn't give you water breaks in the hot Miami sun. How did you survive that?

I don't know! It was either get in great shape or die trying. We had a couple of guys pass out from getting over-heated. I don't think you could execute that today. I don't think the union would stand for it. But that was then, and this is now. As it turns out, it was a great thing. It made a difference in all those games in the fourth quarter at 90-degrees and higher, which happened several times. Like the 49ers game, they just weren't used to that heat and humidity. They had put up a great fight but, in the fourth quarter, we just handled them because the physical demand was too much. Anytime it was 85 degrees or more we knew we had an edge. We were extremely well-conditioned.

You lost to the Cowboys in Super Bowl VI in '71, and before that '72 season you had a feeling that it was going to be your year, that Shula would be relentless. We knew Shula would be more intense than ever because, after we lost the Super Bowl in '71, he threw everybody out of the locker room except the coaches and players and said, "I want every one of you to think about how you feel right now ... we’re going to draw from this ... we’re going to go one game at a time with the idea of playing every game as though it’s the Super Bowl." He never said we would have an undefeated season. What he did predict was

that we were going to take every game very seriously and he lived up to his word. When he said that, Jim Kiick looked at me because we had already been through four-a-days in 90+-degree heat with no water...so, when Shula said that Jim Kiick gave me a wink and said, "buckle up.” His prediction was true. We never had a passing thought of winning every game because no one had ever done that. What we were going to do was prepare for every game as though it was the Super Bowl. And we did. Shula never took his foot off the gas. No detail was too small to be overlooked - he would bring it up and dwell on it until you did it right just to shut him up.

Hall of Fame QB Bob Griese got injured and was out the majority of the regular ’72 season. Yet you were still able to keep your winning streak going after losing your star quarterback. Bob’s leg was broken. It was against San Diego in the fifth game. The defender went airborne and landed on his leg just as he was throwing the pass; the hit broke his leg right below his knee. He was out for several weeks. We had a veteran backup named Earl Morrall step up. Having a quality player like Earl ready was a great asset to our team that year. Signing him in preseason proved to be a really smart move by Shula. Earl was just one of those detailoriented guys. He had played for Shula at Baltimore, and he knew our whole setup. He just came in, clapped his hands, and we took it one play at a time. We never missed a beat.

Jim Kiick, Larry Csonka, Mercury Morris

"FOOTBALL GAVE ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO FORGE A LIFE IN ALASKA.”

- LARRY CSONKA

In the Super Bowl, you were up 14-0, totally dominating the game and then your kicker tried to do something crazy, which made the game a little closer.

It was a low kick that got deflected and the ball bounced back into the arms of our kicker Garo Yepremian. For years, Shula harped at him to always, "Fall on the ball...don't try to do anything with it.” But Garo panicked and tried to throw it. He was left-handed but tried to throw it with his right hand. It was intercepted and run back for a touchdown. Instead of a 17-0 score in a 17-0 season, which would’ve been like destiny, we’d just breathed new life into the Redskins. It was now 14-7 with several minutes left in the game. It was a very tough, tense situation. But a guy named Jake Scott, a weak side safety, intercepted a ball late in the fourth quarter, just by his fingertips. That sealed the game.

It seems like you went on every single TV talk show after winning Super Bowl VII. That must have been fun.

It was fun. I think Jim Kiick and I probably got an unfair amount of publicity with the "Butch & Sundance" thing, but that didn’t stop us from making the most of it.

You went 12-2 in '73 and you won Super Bowl VIII, and you were 32-2 in over just two seasons. You've said the '73 team was better than the '72 team because you just dominated everybody.

I think the '73 team was better in terms of pure ball domination. We didn't have as many close games, either - let's put it that way. Most of the time, it was pretty much a given that we were going to win. Until we didn’t.

You still have such a close brotherhood with your old teammates.

We look forward to getting together every year when the Dolphins bring us back for an Alumni Weekend. We usually watch practice and attend a game the following day. It’s a great tradition and the stories get wilder and wilder. When I finally got around to writing my book I wanted it to be about all of that, not just my career, but about the camaraderie, the highs and the lows, and the people who profoundly influenced me. I feel good about the book because I accomplished what I set out to do. I enjoyed writing it, and it's very true to what happened. But when I get together with the fellas and we start recounting football stories, there's always a difference of opinion, of course, on who did what, who picked up a blitz or made a tackle. We’re still competitive.

Photo by Lisa Ramsay

- ANTARCTICA -

The Southern Most Continent on Earth Is the Bucket-List 2023 Travel Destination

By Norah Bradford

When thinking about travel plans for the year ahead often people think about going to the beach, or to visit a City or to take a road trip and simply enjoy the experience of getting from A to B. However, when you start to think about the ultimate travel destination, that one-of-a-kind, maybe even oncein-a-lifetime experience and the location that often elicits the most emotion in such as conversation is just a single word, “Antarctica”.

The seventh continent on our planet, comparable in size to the United States with a wintertime population of around 1,000 surrounded by the Southern Ocean and typically accessed by sea from the tip of South America across the renowned Drake Passage is both simultaneously awe-inspiring and off-putting to a number of seasoned travelers.

Unlike the Arctic Circle in the North which can be accessed by air directly, Antarctica is treaty regulated by international law and is kept as pristine as possible to enable scientific research on the ecosystem and climate conditions affecting all of us. The fact that the South Pole was discovered barely a Century ago adds to the mystery of the continent of wind, ice and snow.

Visiting Antarctica is typically done during the Spring and Summer season (November onwards) as a Winter visit would be too harsh,

not to mention dangerous. Thinking about packing for the expedition requires care and should be thought of as a combination of casual clothes and apres-ski layering for the daytime expeditions. Also do not forget sunglasses, sunscreen and a camera with a landscape and zoom lenses for wildlife–this is unlikely to be a trip that you may repeat and the photographic opportunities are immense.

The Drake Passage–typically a one-to-two day sea crossing from South America is often referred to as the “Drake Shake” or the “Drake Lake” referring to how unpredictable ocean conditions can be leading to either a serene passage or a fearsome two days hanging on as the ship’s crew guide the ship safely through. This comes after traveling from North America or Europe half-way around the Globe to South America and then connecting to another flight to get to the Southern tip of the Continent – all this before crossing the Passage.

Luxury cruise line, Silversea thought about this and how valuable time can be for its passengers and figured out how to marry their latest expedition ship, the all-new purpose built Silver Endeavour with an Antarctica air-bridge from South America into King George Island – about half a day’s sailing from the Antarctic Peninsula – the most accessible region of the continent in Spring and Summer time. Flying conditions (particularly visibility) play a big role in the timing of the flights across the Antarctic air bridge.

Once landed at King George Island wearing the expedition gear supplied by Silversea on the flight you just have to be guided into a zodiac boat on the beach in full expedition clothing and journey to the ship. Just arriving at the Silver Endeavour is an expedition in itself and a presage of the excitement to follow.

Even travelers’ familiar with cruise travel may well be thinking, “What is an Expedition Cruise?,” or “What makes Antarctica different from Alaska or the Arctic?” These are fair questions and having experienced others, I would suggest that Antarctica is truly a unique experience.

Expedition cruise vessels are typically highly capable for the task and more compact than a regular cruise ship in many cases. Unlike a cruise to the Mediterranean or Caribbean where the itinerary involves a port visit every day either docked alongside or a tender ride away, the expedition cruise is all about flexibility. Nature determines the schedule, the expedition ship has a highly experienced team who decide each day where is safe to land, reconnoiter the route for an on-land hike.

Antarctica is fantastic. What distinguishes it perhaps is not just how wild and remote it feels – for example there is absolutely no sound or smell other than the wind and occasionally the penguins. You feel like you are a visitor to another world. The rules for visitors also add to the feeling of being from another planet–maintaining distance from any wildlife, no sitting down or disturbing the natural environment. There are no aircraft trails in the sky, no docks, paved roads, clear pathways or basically anything other than nature and the wildlife.

The varieties of Penguins could well be the highlight of anyone’s visit – the Gentoo, Chinstrap and Adele are amazing to watch, providing endless entertainment, partly because of their having no interaction with

people. Whales swimming, Glaciers Calving into the sea, avalanches in the mountain ranges above – it feels remote, wild, primal, God’s Country – with the benefit of a cordon bleu meal, stiff cocktail, hot shower and clean sheets in the evening – something we imagine that the great explorers dreamt of more than once.

Whilst the ship is compact, do not think for one moment it is not luxurious. Suites are well appointed and extremely comfortable, dining options cover the spectrum with the high-end option being the La Dame restaurant. The Otium spa offers a range of treatments to relax after a day’s expedition ashore. There is even a gift shop containing useful items of clothing and expedition necessities, and even the only bear you will find on this continent.

For those who need to keep in touch with home, complimentary wireless internet connectivity is very good though can be affected locally from time-to-time, which given the location at the bottom of the world and satellite positioning is understandable.

The focal point of the ship’s entertainment is the nightly briefing where the expedition team provides a brief on the day and what lies potentially ahead as well as lectures from experts in the fields of oceanography, ornithology and history to contextualize what you have seen and will see in the coming days.

Although the itineraries can seem short, they offer a window into a unique continent and a genuine once-in-a-lifetime travel experience, but who knows maybe it will grant you the taste for more…

For more details, please visit www.silversea.com

SOUTHAMPTON IN WINTER

IS BEST ENJOYED AT THE INN

By Harry Brads

Southampton Inn is offering the very best in hospitality this winter to create the ultimate getaway. The East End’s favorite property is recognized as the perfect spot for fun vacations to relaxing staycations. Now is the season to warm your heart up at the joyful hotspot.

During the first three months of 2023 visitors take 23% off their stay of three consecutive nights or more. Holidays such as Presidents Day and Valentine’s Day can be enjoyed at the Southampton Inn at an incredible rate.

Enjoy picturesque weekends with your significant other in front of the library fireplace or a joyful board game such as Monopoly Hamptons Edition – where Southampton Inn a yellow square on the board- with the entire family. You can even sneak away and just curl up in the luxurious bed in your room with a borrowed book from the lounge.

Seasonal activities at the resort are appealing for all ages. In the coming months enjoy winter moments such as nearby ice skating. Sleds are available on snow days for guests to use or take a brisk walk at the nearby beach in the cool air.

Southampton Inn conveniently sits in the heart of Southampton Village, so leisurely days during your stay can be spent just walking or riding a rented bike, in the season, to nearby places while you are wrapped up in a coat and scarf. There are museums with winter exhibits and stores with open doors along Main Street and Jobs Lane for some of the best deals around in the off-tourist season.

Feel like you are a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city in less than a three-hour drive in a rental car; or take the Hampton Jitney or train from Penn Station for an easy arrival in the heart of Southampton Village.

The property showcases rooms with newly appointed features such as fluffy comforters and beautiful wall-to-wall carpeting. Elegant accommodations are an intrinsic feature of the 90 guest suites. In every room a comfortable and immaculate décor is highlighted, as well as individual temperature control, sparkling tiled bathrooms, refrigerators, and complimentary WiFi. Pets are welcome in the limited number of pet friendly rooms for a small fee.

Several interiors also feature newly refurbished suites with brand new carpeting. You will additionally find the Southampton Inn is fully abiding by the latest health standards with UV light systems cleaning each room as staff members thoroughly sterilize the entire facility daily.

Southampton Inn’s beautiful grounds consist of several acres of manicured lawns and gardens. Amenities on the property include a 50-foot heated outdoor pool, all-weather tennis court, croquet space, volleyball nets, bike rentals in season and a game room for all ages.

Additionally, Claude’s Restaurant on the grounds will continue to be open daily for the Hamptons’ “best” daily breakfast and weekend brunch until 2:00pm. If you need dinner reservations the staff can reserve a table for you at the Plaza Cafe Restaurant. Here Southampton Inn guests will receive a complimentary dessert.

And, if you are already planning for summer, please consider reserving soon. A few rooms for extended stays are on hold. A sales team is also ready to assist for weddings, meetings, corporate outings with pool, beach, barbecue, and tennis.

For more information on how to book a safe, fun, and comfortable winter getaway at Southampton Inn please visit www.southamptoninn.com

WEST COAST

DELIGHTS FOUND AT WHIMSICAL FOUR SEASONS HOTEL LOS ANGELES

AT BEVERLY HILLS

By Norah Bradford

The legendary Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is one of the most iconic properties in California.

Located minutes from world-renowned Rodeo Drive and Robertson Boulevard shops, providing the California al fresco lifestyle at its best with views of the Hollywood Hills or Downtown LA from every guest room balcony. The property boasts spacious suites, lush gardens, florals by Jeff Leatham, a floor dedicated to wellness with a Private Fitness suite, WELL office, Spa, and spacious pool deck with the outdoor Cabana restaurant. The property also features meeting rooms ideal for press junkets and a range of other events and celebrations, as well as the Italian Culina Ristorante and The Lounge.

Featuring 185 guest rooms and 100 suites, the 16-story building is a stunning example of luxury hospitality. For decades the landmark property has held the storied halls that have housed royalty to Hollywood celebrities for work stays and vacations.

In 2022, Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills was proudly named the number one hotel in Los Angeles by the 2022 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. With an impressive score of 97.76, the property took the honors which elevated their already phenomenal status in the travel community.

“We are honored to be recognized by Condé Nast Traveler magazine as the top-rated hotel in Los Angeles, an accomplishment that would not be possible without the support of our loyal guests and the dedication of our outstanding team members. Los Angeles offers endless options

for discerning travelers, and we are proud to continue our legacy as a leading hotel,” says David Wilkie, General Manager of Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills.

The legendary Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills features spacious suites, lush gardens, florals by Jeff Leatham, a floor dedicated to wellness with a Private Fitness suite, WELL office, Spa, and spacious pool deck with the outdoor Cabana restaurant. The property also features meeting rooms ideal for press junkets and a range of other events and celebrations, as well as the Italian Culina Ristorante and The Lounge.

One of the highlights on display is the outdoor pool set on a tropically landscaped terrace on the fourth floor, offering elevated city views; 6 poolside cabanas are available for spa treatments or a sheltered respite, with refreshments offered from the adjoining Cabana Restaurant.

Also, be sure to experience the new GEMCLINICAL facial treatments by KNESKO available at the spa. Addressing visible signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, dryness, puffiness, and uneven skin tone with the added benefit of re-balancing chakra energies throughout the body, each session elevates the individual to a level of bliss. Utilizing products charged with healing reiki energy to invite positive intentions and promote self-love, the new treatments create a state of total relaxation and well-being while showcasing a unique, holistic approach to skincare and self-care.

For more information please visit online.

3 WAYS TO FINALLY BREAK YOUR UNWANTED CYCLES FROM THE PAST

By Sarah Vie

When you were young, I bet you had sworn to yourself you would never act like your parents or grandparents, but now as an adult you are beginning to notice that similar pattern repeating itself time and time again. You know that annoying behavior that would make you spin in anger or insecurity.

Those hurtful words your parents would spew towards an innocent mistake. That screaming voice that would make all the neighbors turn to see what was happening. How could this be possible? Don't worry there was nothing wrong with you. Their behavior was coming from a place of their own unhealed pain.

There is science behind ancestral patterning. In my new book, I Wish I'd Known, I write about the epigenetics of energy we can hold in our body from three generations of unhealed pain and trauma. That energy can be connected to the patterns that we repeat.

The good news is you can energetically heal and let go of any energy that no longer serves you. It takes willingness and practice, but it is so possible to cut the cords for good.

Before I give you the steps to let go of what you no longer wish to repeat, I want to explain what a cycle breaker is in the first place. The

term "cycle-breaker" refers to a person intentionally changing multigenerational family patterns. A pattern that we repeat over and over again in our own life.The person who is breaking the cycles from the past, will need to deep dive into the origin of their family behaviors and root out unhealthy patterns. Patterns that don't seem to align. When we want to change these old, limited patterns, we get to experience deep introspective work to become connected to our most authentic selves. I would have to say that I have healed and repurposed my old patterns and now live a life feeling completely connected to myself. After experiencing the shift, I am attracting limitless financial abundance. I have become the energy of love and am now in a deep emotional love relationship.

Something that was lacking in my thirty-two year marriage. This new life of mine is available to anyone, but we must first “clear out the old to bring in the new”. Kind of like redecorating a room. The room that I am talking about here is in your head. Those old thoughts, patterns and cycles that are creating those energetic blocks and resistance. When we reframe and release, the feeling is magically liberating! When we live a life of our own authenticity, that's when we become manifesting magnets!

HERE ARE THE BEGINNING STEPS TO LOVINGLY DISRUPT YOUR PATTERNS.

Rest and be quiet

This is the most important step of them all. We think an average of 70,000 daily, so it’s no wonder we can’t understand why we are in an energetic swirl. Some of our thoughts are ours, but some are from our past that no longer serve the highest version of ourselves.

I recommend that you begin the journey to your quiet center; whether that be in meditation, walking mindfully outside or just pausing during the day. Begin getting quiet to the noise and chaos in your mind. What are you thinking? Are those thoughts true or from your past? If you're willing, write down anything that you witness from that place of peace and calm.

Release and let go

STEP 1 STEP 2 STEP 3

Once we understand our inner language and know what thoughts and patterns are no longer serving our highest self, it's time to release the energy from our seven chakras or energy centers in our body.

In Chapter 4 of I Wish I'd Known, I talk about where we can store the energy from the ancestral stories that we tell ourselves. Remember, thoughts create emotion. Emotion creates energy. Our body is the vessel that then holds this energy. In my book portal there is an energetic quiz you can take to uncover where you may be blocked. If you go to book. sarahvie.com and follow the prompts, you too can get clear. After you know where you're blocked there are techniques to release; I can facilitate your healing with remote reiki or offer you an energetic cord cutting meditation.

Reparent with love

Part of breaking cycles is learning about doing something different.

I encourage the brave people I work with to begin reparenting the inner child inside of all of us. That little you is tired of fighting with you. She/he is tired of defending you and never feeling happy. She/he wants to be loved. You get to parent this child exactly how you have always wanted. You can’t go back in time, but you can create a life going forward that supports this new and authentic version of you.

It is insane to think by experiencing the same behavior you will create a different result. Do something different. Feel something different. Be something different.

Website: www.sarahvie.com

IG: sarah_vie_llc

Facebook: Sarah Vie

THE DIVORCE JOURNALIST: ILYSSA PANITZ

By Adam Kluger

What is the most common cause of most divorces?

Ilyssa Panitz: Every marriage is different and so too is every divorce. As to why people decide to file for a divorce, the reasons vary. The most common causes for a divorce are; cheating, lying, addiction, stealing, lack of communication, no intimacy, drifting apart and financial stress.

Research has shown, up to 80% of all divorces are initiated by women. While many women have expressed, they often feel “alone” in their marriage, others have shared the overwhelming pressure they feel juggling a career, a family, and a marriage with little or no help from their spouse. Women have come a long way in the work force, and according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 38% of women are considered to be the primary breadwinners in their marriage. If they have a steady income, regardless if a divorce means a change in their lifestyle, they will pull the plug for the sake of their happiness.

What is the best course of action when kids are involved?

Ilyssa Panitz: Remember who your audience is, your kids. If you and your spouse have decided to get a divorce, you need to have a lot of patience when you sit them down and take center stage to share your decision to separate. Hearing the words, “Mommy and daddy are getting a divorce,” is scary for a child. Be prepared for lots of tears, yelling, confusion, a barrage of questions, and begging you to stay together. That is why I recommend couples work with

a therapist. They can guide you on how to open the conversation and explain the situation delicately to kids. Many therapists I have interviewed suggest saying, “Mommy and daddy love you so much and that will never change. I am always your mom. I am always your dad.” Experts also encourage parents to have this talk in the family home, because it is private, and children feel safe in their familiar environment.

Is family therapy a good idea?

Ilyssa Panitz: Yes. Family therapy is a smart idea for everyone in the family. Therapy is a safe space for everyone to share their feelings about the situation and open-up the lines of communication. It is important for mom & dad to know what the children are feeling and learn from a professional how they can help their kids during this transition. Another benefit of family therapy, it can help mom and dad co-parent and avoid potential conflicts in front of the kids.

How can both ex-spouses/parents improve their relationships?

Ilyssa Panitz: While I am not a therapist, I do feel ex-spouses can improve their relationship a few different ways.

1 2 3 4

Try to avoid a high conflict divorce because the on-going, long, drawn out battle with lawyers is costly and will likely result in both of you fighting even more. I understand people may be bitter and angry due to the circumstances surrounding the divorce, but anger is expensive, and it’s your kids who will suffer the most. Remember what I said earlier, know your audience, which are your children.

If you and your spouse are not ready to talk to one another because there are negative feelings, yet you still need to communicate when it comes to the kids’ schedules, doctor appointments or coordinating drop-off and pick-ups, sign-up for a membership on a parenting app. There are many to choose from and they reasonably priced. You can upload your kids’ activities, send copies of receipts, exchange emails and share other information about the children without having to call one another.

Focus, focus, focus on you, you, you and not your “ex.” When you pour all your attention on creating what you want your life to look like and take control of making those things happen, you will begin to make peace with your divorce and find your spirit. For instance, I have seen people apply for promotions at work, create a new circle of friends and reinvent themselves with a makeover. The possibilities are endless if you go in with a positive mindset.

It sounds cliché, but I am going to revert-back to the old saying, “time heals all wounds.” It is natural you are going to be hurt and feel a wave of different emotions due to a divorce. But, after time passes and you embark on your new journey, write your next chapter(s), chances are you will be in a better position to form a friendship or be cordial to your “ex,” when you both attend events for the children.

What is the best advice for anyone going through a divorce?

Ilyssa Panitz: My best advice for anyone going through a divorce is to take a cue from Adele’s song that centered on her own divorce, “Go Easy on Me” – that being yourself. It’s okay if you didn’t get the laundry done. It is okay if you forgot to return and email or a text. You are a single parent doing the best you can. Instead of beating yourself up saying, “How could I forget,” remind yourself (write it down if it helps) all the things you accomplished in one day. Look at that list and then pat yourself on the back at the great job you are doing. Something else I highly recommend people do; when your kids are spending time with the other parent do things for yourself such as plan an overdue visit with family and friends, treat yourself to a mani/pedi, take up an exercise class or a hobby to meet other people. After a few times following this routine, you will learn to relish in your alone/self-care time instead of thinking about what your “ex” and the kids are doing without you.

Ilyssa Panitz is the “only” Divorce Journalist in the media industry who is solely committed to “exclusively” covering every angle of this topic.

Prior to creating the “divorce beat” in 2020, Ilyssa was a Reporter/ Producer was for leading media outlets such as CNN, MSNBC, 1010 WINS Radio (NY), WCBS-AM, New York-1 News, Westwood One, Star Magazine, Closer Magazine, and Meredith Publishing. While Ilyssa was front and center on a wide array of media assignments, she is perhaps best known for producing hundreds of “Celebrity at Home” photo shoots and sitting down with some of the biggest names in Hollywood for exclusive, one-on-one interviews.

Today, Ilyssa writes a divorce column for “Authority Magazine” on Medium.

She also serves as the Content/Editorial Producer for The National Association of Divorce Professionals and is the Creator, Writer, Producer and Host of a nationally syndicated & live streaming radio show called, “The Divorce Hour with Ilyssa Panitz” that airs every Saturday and Sunday on CRN Digital Talk Radio and then on Spotify, Google Podcasts, iTunes, Google Home, and Alexa.

FOR THE LOVE OF A GLOVE

By Adam Kluger

Perhaps the most talked about theatrical event of the current season in Los Angeles is the re-opening of For the Love of a Glove: An Unauthorized Musical Fable About the Life of Michael Jackson As Told By His Glove. This hilarious musical takes a decidedly off-kilter approach to telling the life story of Michael Jackson. Using Michael Jackson’s glove as the play’s unlikely narrator, this show gives audiences a freshly revisionist look into the strange forces that shaped Michael and the scandals that bedeviled his reputation.

The show utilizes a combination of actors and incredible life-sized puppets. The puppets, designed by renowned puppeteer Robin Walsh, draw from the Japanese Bunraku form and are operated by puppeteers in full view of the audience. Realistic and close to life size, these twenty original works of art portray members of the Jackson 5, Donny Osmond, Barbara Walters, Emmanuel Lewis and Corey Feldman.

The show opened in 2020 and was getting rave reviews. Celebrities started showing up. People were flying in from other cities to see it after stories were written about it for NPR’s Morning Edition, the LA Times, Forbes and in the international press. Articles compared the show to Avenue Q, Book of Mormon and The Producers. Plans were even being hatched to bring it to a theater in New York when covid hit and closed the show.

Now re-worked, it is finally reopening. By taking events from Michael’s life and re-telling them through the perspective of a glove (who happened to be a musically talented alien) the show

re-examines Michael’s life in a fresh and comical way. Writer/ Director Julien Nitzberg wanted the musical to address the incendiary trifecta of race, religion and sexuality that were always controversial undercurrents in Michael’s story.

Central to its re-examination of Michael’s life is looking at the damage that Michael’s religion (the Jehovah’s Witnesses) caused. Among the odd beliefs of the Jehovah Witnesses is the teaching that masturbation can turn men gay. They warn that, while masturbating, a man becomes accustomed to the male touch on his penis, which, logically, can turn a man into a raging homosexual, demanding other men touch his penis. The show tries to make sense of how, coming from this religion, one of Michael’s signature dance moves became his controversial crotch grab. The musical, of course, explains this as his glove’s idea, not Michael’s. For the Love of a Glove has no music by Michael Jackson but instead features amazing original songs that echoes the sounds of that time by pop songwriters Coco Morier, Drew Erickson and Max Townsley. Choreography is provided by Michael Jackson’s former lead dancer/ renowned choreographer Cris Judd. The show's unique perspective and bold humor is sure to shock, amuse and impress anyone lucky enough to see it. Peter Gould, the cocreator and showrunner of Better Call Saul, saw the show and proclaimed it “Jawdroppingly inventive, surprising, funny and... unexpectedly emotional.” If you can, see this show. It is unlike anything else out now.

COE + CO PHOTOGRAPHY GALLERY PRESENTS THE PALMS: VOLUME I

AN EXHIBITION OF PHOTOGRAPHS BY DEAN WEST

Coe + Co Photography Gallery is pleased to present The Palms: Volume I, a collection of photographs by Dean West. The exhibition will be on view from February 16 –March 11 at 292 South County Road, Palm Beach, FL. A reception with the artist will be held on Friday, February 17 from 5-7pm.

For over a decade Dean West has created narrative-driven tableaux works, developing a captivating world of his own through deliberately staged imagery. In The Palms, the artist explores aspects of Florida’s culture and daily life, using theatrical images to dramatize the narratives of local characters and landscapes. While West’s surreal, atmospheric photographs perfectly capture moments suspended in time, the characters within these compositions tell a larger story: one that inhabits our own perceptions of time, place and identity.

Included in this exhibition is the final edition of The Wrangler, which has become the most iconic image from The Palms series. In a familiar Floridian narrative, rich greens and warm afternoon light grace the lush, manicured gardens beside the iridescent pool, while in the foreground the American alligator faces off with a boldly positioned Wrangler. Bringing together the choreographed character, provocative narrative, and strong use of symmetry and color, this piece perfectly embodies the essence of West’s body of work.

In La Piscina I and The Boys, we find two boys out for a midnight swim as the cerulean blue, mid-century pool lights up the scene with a mesmeric twilight coolness. West’s compelling approach to storytelling is heightened by the introduction of a lone wolf, leaving the viewer in suspense as to how this scene has come to be, and what may happen next.

In contrast to the rich, narrative works, West also finds drama in the simplicity of form in Cade Silhouette #1 and #2, with figures suspended in time in stark monochrome. Additionally, the South Beach images offer simpler glimpses into everyday life at the beach, which, while less conceptual, still invite the viewer to contemplate the relationships and tensions at play behind these captured moments.

The artist reflects, “Since the 1990s, the constructed image has been ubiquitous throughout the international art scene with names like Jeff Wall and Cindy Sherman. Creatively staged spectacles that require a magnifying glass over every small detail. Pictures that have us dabbling in the streets of Hollywood rather than Henri Cartier-Bresson’s The Decisive Moment. What we can ensure you will get from these artificially created worlds, is not just a beautifully crafted print hanging in your designer living room but a direct link to the artist’s identity: a fingerprint that connects their world to yours. A portal of the soul. Photography lives in a world of truth and deception. If there’s one thing we can all agree on, however, when you stand in front of a picture what you’re experiencing is real and that’s all that matters in that moment. As the great Susan Sontag once wrote – ‘one can’t possess the present, but one can possess the past.’”

West’s award-winning works have been exhibited at important institutions around the world including the Columbus Museum of Art, Faneuil Hall Museum of Boston, the Paris Expo Porte De Versailles, and the Discovery Times Square Museum in New York City. His imagery has been used for international brand partnerships with clients such as Disney, MTV, Bombay Sapphire, St Germain, Corona, Starburst and Fox Sports. West’s unique vision and artistry set him apart as one of the most compelling image makers of his generation.

Photography by Dean West

Photography by Dean West

ARTIST JOSE TRUJILLO

TOFFEE ROSES TRENDING AS NEW COLOR OF LOVE

By Jill Brooke

Red roses are getting some competition in the love department.

Its new cultural rival? Toffee/taupe-colored roses.

In the past year, rose farms are quadrupling production, sales have surged and florists can’t get enough of them.

These roses not only represent multi-colorism but reflect the growing trends in marriage.

According to the Pew Research Center, 17% of all marriages in 2022 were of mixed races and ethnicities. The toffee/taupe roses are perfect choices to represent that cultural shift. It’s no longer just white roses at the wedding or for the wedding bouquet.

Joey Azout, president of Alexandra Farms, which produces David Austin roses among other brands, says “sales of sand, toffee, and nude color roses now make up 30% of the color assortment.”

Anticipating the growing popularity of this color wave, Rosaprima Roses also introduced RP Moab last year. The company said it planted 20,000 plants and now will increase that production to 150,000 because of demand.

In fact, says Ryan Black, of Miami-based Jet Fresh Flowers, a “black market” for the flowers is emerging since only a handful of farms have the exclusive rights to this color tone and are trying to grow them illegally without breeder permission. Black, who is the fourth generation of his family in the flower business, says the company’s Ecuador farm grows varieties including Symbol and Quicksand which are selling as briskly as real estate in Florida.

“We live in a multiethnic, multicultural world — what better palette to represent this than the multicolored, blended taupe roses,” says Debra Prinzing, author and founder of the Slow Flowers Society, herself part of an interracial marriage. “The family of taupe and toffee roses has many unique varieties to grow in our own gardens or to clip for our vases and bouquets. It’s a rose to celebrate the beautiful diversity and deeper meaning of what we value in humankind.”

For these reasons, we along with Florists’ Review Magazine, which has been the industry bible of the flower industry since 1897, have joined forces to introduce this rose into the language of flowers.

The symbolic meaning of flowers has been a tradition since 1819 when Charlotte de La Tour published La Language des Fleurs. In recent history, the tie-dyed rose based on Gilbert Baker’s rainbow flag for gay rights became a popular addition. But now floral experts say the toffee/taupe version deserves to be recognized.

“But to keep up with all the requests, we are now color-enhancing white flowers and also selling them as “Frappuchino,” he says.

Another reason for their popularity? “They are a tone that “blends” in with so many colors whether raspberry or white,” says awardwinning wedding planner Holly Chapple, who also owns Hope Flower Farm in Loudoun County, Virginia. “We can’t get enough of them.”

With Valentine’s Day one of the most popular night for engagements, expect a new round of floral demands. In just 2022, there were 2.5 million weddings and, per The Knot, the average cost for flowers in 2021 was $2,300. Experts note toffee/taupe flowers, given their scarcity, run at least $1 to $2 more than average roses.

It’s also been good business for retail shops says Joost Bongaerts, CEO of California-based Florabundance, a nationwide wholesale floral distributor with over 1800 varieties and also the owner of Garden Roses Direct.

“Anyone can buy red roses these days from a supermarket but these are rare specialty flowers stocked by florists,” says Bongaerts. “It helps florists offer something unique and special.”

That’s helpful since supermarkets are cutting into flower shops’ revenue streams. Supermarkets buy in such bulk that they can offer lower prices than florists. Florists also have to pay for rent and heat while a supermarket can amortize the flower offerings in overall rent. Furthermore, as reported by CNN, flowers may account for only 1% to 3% of total sales, but in 2019 stores reported an average gross margin of 47% on cut flowers.

Yet for florists, they have options in this toffee/taupe color range including Golden Mustard, and Caramel.

Many are happy that these toffee flowers are rooting so positively.

In the language of flowers, red roses stand for passion and love, white for innocence and young love, pink for elegance, admiration and charm, orange tones represent enthusiasm and yellow is for friendship and courage.

Now we have anointed the toffee rose to symbolize “openminded, open-hearted and blended.” This rose does speak to 2023 and is a fitting addition to our changing social landscape, which embraces all the colors of love.

Holly Chapple, Photo: Liz Fogarty, Meg Alp

www.flowerpowerdaily.com

ANOTHER REASON FOR THEIR POPULARITY? “THEY ARE A TONE THAT “BLENDS” IN WITH SO MANY COLORS WHETHER RASPBERRY OR WHITE...”

- WEDDING PLANNER HOLLY CHAPPLE

YAT SIU

CO-FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN, ANIMOCA BRANDS FOUNDER AND CEO, OUTBLAZE

Yat Siu is a veteran technology entrepreneur and investor based in Hong Kong, and he is the co-founder and executive chairman of Animoca Brands, a Web3 company advancing digital property rights and the open metaverse.

In case you’re not up to speed with all the terminology, here is a quick summary of why this topic is so important to all of us - from casual gamers to high-end fashion designers. Web3 is a decentralized version of the Internet that is built on blockchains, which are distributed and decentralized databases. In simple terms, blockchains operate in a decentralized manner and represent a shift away from large centralized platforms, publishers, and similar companies (e.g., Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook / Meta).

Most people are familiar with blockchain technology through cryptocurrencies such as Ether or Bitcoin, and digital items called NFTs. What makes NFTs interesting is that they possess some characteristics normally associated with physical items, including authenticity, scarcity, ownership, provenance, and other properties that are independently verified and secured on blockchain.

Even more importantly, NFTs enable true ownership of your own digital assets, data, and equity. This is very different from most digital content and services today, which are temporarily provided to you on a licensing basis - such licensed digital content is, effectively, rented, not owned.

Put all of the above together and you have the movement for the open metaverse: a connected shared online universe that allows different platforms and users to interoperate, and that empowers its users with true ownership of their digital items and data unser a more democratic framework.

Since 2018, Yat has been an advocate for blockchain, NFTs, Web3, and the open metaverse. He built Animoca Brands from a small game developer into one of the global leaders of the Web3 space. Now valued in the billions of dollars, Animoca Brands operates several NFT-focused subsidiaries and products, and has invested in over 380 Web3-related companies to build one of the largest metaverse portfolios in the world.

And the world has certainly been taking notice. Most recently, on 12 February 2023, Animoca Brands collaborated with world-renowned Hong Kong designer Vivienne Tam and Hepha to bring the streets of Hong Kong to the New York Fashion Week runway show in a stunning virtual recreation of the city, adorned with a collection of famous rare NFTs.

The NFTs included Bored Ape Yacht Club, Mutant Ape Yacht Club, Cool Cats, Mocaverse, Meebit, and CryptoPunks - a veritable who’s who of the metaverse industry.

The audience admired the fashion of Vivienne Tam as the models walked down the runway, appearing to stroll out of Hong Kong’s urban streetscape with its famous trams, the legendary floating restaurant, eye-catching fluorescent signs, and some of the most loved and impactful NFT brands in the open metaverse.

For Yat Siu and Animoca Brands, such high-profile exposure is just the beginning. The company is producing a range of exciting products and services to help usher in the new digital future in ways we cannot even imagine today. You can learn more about Yat Siu and Animoca Brands by watching the episode of “A Moment of Xen” featuring Yat at https://youtu.be/MUs2XYHwxX0 and visiting www. animocabrands.com.

"People need banking, not banks. I love OGPAY for just that."

-Xen Sams

FEMINIST APP #SOPHYGRAY

By Nadja Verena Marcin

Afeminist app by Nadja Verena Marcin, available for mobile devices worldwide, launched in collaboration with Onassis Stegi as part of the EMAP residency

(NEW YORK, US & ATHENS, Greece) We are pleased to announce the worldwide release of #SOPHYGRAY – A Feminist Audio-Bot, immediately available for mobile devices in the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. Try the online demo version <www.sophygray. com> of the app, and listen to the accompanying 2-minute podcast for more context.

Talk with SOPHY about art, feminism, and daily life. Listen to SOPHY and learn her thoughts and ideas. Share feminist ideas and help SOPHY learn yours.

#SOPHYGRAY is an audio bot that answers questions in a surprising, philosophical, and humorous way from various feminist perspectives. She/he/it challenges assumptions about virtual assistants and their typically feminine-sounding voices that often reinforce stereotypes, gender roles, and power hierarchies reflecting the culture that developed them and the impact of virtual assistants in everyday life: the distorted portrayal of women in the media and the objectification that comes with the use of gendered technologies.

When you talk to #SOPHYGRAY, you train her, you shape her, and teach her new knowledge. #SOPHYGRAY’s creators are committed to creating counter-narratives to overturn gender biases embedded in today’s technologies, and the stereotypes enforced by common language use. A moderated knowledge base and learning features are put in place to capture and disseminate intersectional feminist thinking and theory globally.

Using philosophical quotations from bell hooks, Donna Haraway, Silvia Federici, Audre Lorde, and Anna Lowenhaupt-Tsing, and others, the conversational capabilities of the audio bot are continuously developed by the artist Nadja Verena Marcin and a team of changing authors including Sonja Borstner (Gropiusbau), Leon Menschede (Burg Giebichenstein), Anthony Huffman (Brooklyn Rail), Shuang Cai (NYU), and Monique Machicao (Kleine Humboldtgalerie).

This app was developed by artist Nadja Verena Marcin together with programmer Alex Stachowiak. The prototype version of the app was created with a team of developers from the sponsor NOVATEC, and its content library is written by a growing list of creative writers and theorists mentioned in its database. During the EMAP residency at Onassis Stegi in Athens, several workshops were held where the public was invited to write text contributions that were later added to the content library. This will be continued at upcoming exhibitions

at WRO Biennial: Fungible Content in Wroclaw, Poland, in May 2023 and Glitch Aesthetics at Digitalvilla in Potsdam from March to June 2023.

#SOPHYGRAY is named after South Africa’s first female architect who designed and built more than 40 churches in the 19th century. Her pink button refers to HAL 9000, a computer with a human personality from the film 2001: A Space Odyssey by Stanley Kubrick.

We are indebted to our sponsors. #SOPHYGRAY is made possible by the EMAP residency at Onassis Stegi, co-funded by Creative Europe program of the European Union, the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, the Ministry of Culture North RhineWestphalia, NEUSTART KULTUR by the German Federal Culture Commissioner, Stiftung Kunstfonds in Bonn as well as sponsored by IT company Novatec. The artwork is fiscally sponsored by the New York Foundation for the Arts.

AN AFFAIR WITH SKINCARE

Fachie Market was created in 2020 by 15 year skincare expert Lauren Fache (Fachie) while working in her Miami formulation lab. Being surrounded by luxury skincare, and as a skincare manufacturer (knowing the actual cost to make each item), Fachie set out to create a fair and transparent marketplace. Fachie Market was created as a clean one-stop-shop for all consciously priced skincare and wellness products sourced and created directly by her lab to consumers. Its in-house brand called Fachie features skincare, body care as well as local brands whose ethos align with the new standard.

What makes your products different?

“Being the manufacturer for so many of Amazon’s top sellers, dermatologists, influencers, etc. gave me the understanding necessary to create my own product line which I consider to be of uncompromised quality. When I say “uncompromised”, it means that we always use the highest quality ingredients in our products, regardless of the cost involved in their production. Another unique point is that we develop and manufacture our products in the US, from start to finish, allowing us to control the process and to give you the best quality products on the market.”

How do you connect with your community?

“At Fachie Market, we want to help build conscious communities by supporting and connecting with other clean brands. This is precisely why we align with brands and their founders who share our passion, authenticity, and reflect our genuine love and care for their customers and our planet.

We also have been hosting clean beauty workshops at places like SoHo Beach House, Casa Tua members club, and Life House Hotels. It’s a lovely interactive experience where we set up a long beautiful brunch table and walk women (and men) through curated clean beauty routines for their skin type and explain how it benefits and works for them. It’s wonderful to be able to teach and grow with your customers.”

What makes your company conscious and eco-friendly?

“Our containers are made of recyclable glass, our boxes are hemp, and our packing paper are post-consumer recycled materials. We use either PCR or recyclable materials to leave as little of a footprint as we can on our beautiful planet.

We also donate 1% of our proceeds to one tree planted which is dedicated to global reforestation. Their goal is to plant trees to help restore nature and its biodiversity. They also raise awareness about the importance of trees, offer businesses like ours a simple sustainability solution, and motivate younger generations to do something positive for the environment

Check out our Instagram: @fachiemarket

Photography Tara Quinn

Article Tara Quinn

Editor Brandon Staudinger

An Affair with Skincare

fachie

All Organic Skincare Line

INTERVIEW WITH DR. SHAGHAYEGH DENOBLE

Women’s health AND wellness are important, yet it is often overlooked and undervalued. That’s why Shaghayegh DeNoble, MD, a gynecologic surgeon and sexual health expert, decided to start her own private practice in New Jersey 8 years ago. “I always dreamed of creating a space where I can help women of all ages achieve optimal health, from the young adults who are in high school or college, to the busy mother dealing with changes in her sex life, to the professional woman who is struggling with menopause symptoms.”

“I always had a passion for women’s issues and the upliftment of women worldwide, and ultimately I chose obstetrics and gynecology (OB/Gyn) as the specialty to pursue after medical school. Unfortunately, I found that most OB/Gyn practices were volume-driven and didn’t allow the time I knew was necessary to treat the individual woman or address her complex concerns.” This motivated Dr. DeNoble to start her private gynecology practice, Advanced Gynecology of North Jersey, in 2015 after practicing general OB/Gyn for 5 years. While she loved delivering babies, giving up the obstetric portion of her practice allowed her to spend more valuable time helping women in the other aspects of their lives.

Dr. DeNoble has successfully treated thousands of women for issues related to their sexual and gynecologic health including fibroids, chronic vaginal pain, sexual dysfunction, problems related to menopause, and aesthetic problems of the vagina including enlarged labia. In addition to mainstream treatments, Dr. DeNoble also offers newer technologies such

as vaginal lasers, radiofrequency, and platelet-rich plasma treatments that can be very effective alternatives or additions to medications or surgery.

Dr. DeNoble’s educational background is extensive. She graduated with honors from Boston University with a bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and earned her medical degree from the University of Massachusetts Medical School in 2005. After medical school, she completed residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the St. Luke’sRoosevelt Hospital Center, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, in New York City and went on to complete the rigorous Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery. She is also trained in cosmetic vaginal surgery from The Labiaplasty and Vaginoplasty Institute of America.

Dr. DeNoble is board-certified by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and is a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL), The North American Menopause Society (NAMS), and the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH).

For more information about Shaghayegh DeNoble, MD, FACOG, visit www.advancedgynnj.com or Dr. DeNoble’s Instagram @yourgyndoc. She is accepting new patients and consultations at her modern office in Wayne, NJ.

On November 23rd, 2003 Adam Kluger Public Relations launched into unchartered waters with a 300+ person party at Planet Hollywood in Times Square, featuring 6 live bands, costumed characters from Troma films and a mermaid (actress Maria Setaro) wearing a $10,000 rubber tail flown in from Northern California just for the event. AKPR was originally known as Bonehead Public Relations and the name was a perfect fit for a rag-tag bunch who thought outside the box and looked at running a PR firm as part performance art and part intuition. For about a year prior, I had gone back and forth from freelancing as a television writer producer (Fox5NY, MSNBC, E! News) and trying my hand as an independent publicist. One of my first clients in 2002 was a highschool pal who wrote a novelty book called "The Guide to Picking Up Girls" After helping promote the book over the course of a few months, the book peaked on the Amazon Best-Seller list at #77. That was after a second Howard Stern Radio Show appearance and after Jay Leno's producer saw some funny late night commecials we had written/cast and produced for the Guide that Jay featured on The Tonight Show.

Publicity didn't seem that hard. Even kind of creative and fun.

The motto then was "Excellence, Creativity & Integrity." Along the way, we have all been blessed to have developed trusted friendships and life-long relationships that we will always cherish. Here's an old article on AKPR written by New York Times reporter Diana Greenberg...so honored and grateful that all the folks mentioned in this interview are still dear friends and a big part of our inner circle. Thank you all so much! -AK

ADAM KLUGER PUBLIC RELATIONS

Celebrates Twenty Years of Excellence, Creativity & Integrity

Adam Kluger Public Relations: Over a decade of Big Bottom-Line Results

Adam Kluger recalls picking up garbage in Central Park with his classmates from Horace Mann School as part of a good citizenship project when he was about five years old. The endeavor became much more exciting for him when a TV cameraman started filming the group. He was eager to see himself on the evening news.

“I guess I should have realized then that I would either become a garbage man or work in TV,” he joked in a recent interview in which he talked about the 12 year odyssey of his Manhattan based public relations firm that bears his name (www.adamklugerpr.com) (also known as AKPR). He opened AKPR in November 2003.

Mr. Kluger had more than a decade of media experience before he took on the challenge of running a PR firm. After earning a liberal arts degree from Vassar College, he spent ten years as a writer and producer for CNN. He was also an independent and contract producer for a couple of years, working for major television stations, such as Fox5 , MSNBC and E! News. He revealed that his interest in public relations as a career came to him through a serendipitous encounter.

“A former classmate wrote a self-published book and asked me to help publicize it,” he explained. “I was able to get him 30 placements, including an appearance on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”

That success led Mr. Kluger to begin his new career. After hosting a party with six bands at Planet Hollywood at Times Square to launch his new

firm with the assistance of lighting guru, friend and future client, Bentley Meeker (www.bentleymeeker.com), he got down to business. He surrounded himself with talented leaders who he employs on a contract basis. “We have a rotating staff of about 15 people ranging from senior publicists to interns, depending on my current clients’ needs,” he said. “Our award-winning senior PR Team led by Mark Goldman and Robyn Stevens is among the best in the business–They are efficient, accountable, loyal and they somehow manage to make me look smart every day.” “They honor me daily with their friendship and trust and I am devoted to all of them as on-going strategic business partners.”

With his fluctuating staff, Mr. Kluger has provided multi-dimensional, individualized public relations services for more than 100 clients, averaging about five to 15 clients at a time. His services include a full range of solutions: traditional and social media placements, managing corporate reputation and strategic communications, event management, web design and search engine optimization, and media branding campaigns resulting in improved market share and big bottom-line results.

The motto then was "Excellence, Creativity & Integrity." Along the way, we have all been blessed to have developed trusted friendships and life-long relationships that we will always cherish. Here's an old article on AKPR written by New York Times reporter Diana Greenberg...so honored and grateful that all the folks mentioned in this interview are still dear friends and a big part of our inner circle. Thank you all so much!

-Adam Kluger

With a relatively small client base, AKPR is able to give each client maximum time and attention. “My fees are at the boutique PR firm level, but our results are on par or better than larger firms,” Mr. Kluger said. He credits his clients and several mentors for helping him to learn the “art and science” of public relations, as well as the ins and outs of running a small business. Mr. Kluger is thankful for many business mentors, including his client, Brian Drum, CEO of Drum Associates, an executive search firm (www.drumassociates.com), and Jay Levy, a business development advisor who was a recipient of Crain’s New York Business Top Five Entrepreneurs to Watch in New York. (www.uproot. com)

AKPR has provided services for a large variety of clients, from authors, top doctors and CEOs to small and medium-sized businesses. Mr. Kluger is particularly pleased to work with Brain Balance Achievement Centers, which offers a program to help children with ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, or Asperger’s syndrome to overcome behavioral and learning difficulties. The centers have grown in number from five to over 60 with Mr. Kluger’s help. “I am especially devoted to my clients who make the world a better place,” he said.

One of AKPR’s first clients, Subin Associates, LLP, a personal injury law firm (www.subinlaw.com), has stuck with AKPR through the years as the recipient of abundant media placements. “Adam Kluger Public Relations got us more press coverage in a week than my firm has gotten in 20 years,” said Herb Subin, Esq. He added that Mr. Kluger is a ”pleasure to work with, has great insight, and is a real gentleman.”

Bill Tush, who worked with Mr. Kluger at CNN but is now retired and works as a freelance entertainment journalist, also has been a client with AKPR since the firm’s beginning. “Adam keeps my name out there,” he said. “Sometimes I’ll do four of five media interviews in a row. We’re friends and sometimes I’ll call Adam on Sunday just to say hello, and he’ll start thinking of places to pitch.” PopCap, maker of video games, has been a “huge client” in terms of revenue. AKPR recently pulled out all the stops for the company, with a major broadcast tour, satellite radio tour, and celebrity Twitter campaign. (www.popcapgames.com)

Mr. Kluger defines success for his clients as “achieving their goals” – whether they are media placement, web design, branding, or any mix of PR objectives. He affirmed that the most important measure of success is getting big bottom-line results. He is more philosophical about his own success. He said, “It has been a challenge to keep the business going, especially during the recession.” He offered an analogy: “My team and I have been in the eye of the hurricane, but we’ve been in a lifeboat where everyone is equal, and we’ve

discovered how to manage and get through the storms.” Kluger adds, “if it wasn’t for my family and good friends having my back during the tough times–I never would have made it this far or for this long.”

“One rule in our office is that we treat each other with kindness and respect,” Mr. Kluger said. He also allows his young internal staff to be independent and work the way they see fit. He joked, “Everyone is their own boss, and I’m their assistant.”

On a more serious note he said, “The secret to being a good leader is to be a good role model, to care about people, and to help them realize their potential and achieve their goals.” Lauren Shepland, who worked at AKPR as a publicist and office manager for about a year while she was a student at Sacred Heart University, said she has Mr. Kluger to thank for her landing a “fantastic job” at Bridgewater Associates, the world’s largest hedge fund, upon her graduation. “Working for Adam was a great experience,” she said. “I learned about the tools and work skills I needed for a PR position.”

Currently an event manager at a popular hotel, Karina Mkrtchian said she “learned everything about public relations from working at AKPR,” adding, “Adam would say, ‘I’m here to help you find and release your inner greatness.’ I always thought that sounded kind of cheesy, but I realized he was absolutely right. Adam helped me discover what I was good at and use it to the best of my abilities.”

That was also true for Bernadette Marciniak, who started working at AKPR as an intern when she was a student at Montclair State

University, eventually becoming a publicist handling social media, design work, and photography. She said Mr. Kluger noticed that she had artistic talent and helped her to develop it. She went on to work as a photographer for North Jersey Media Group, owner of the Bergen Record, but she still works for AKPR as a freelance photographer and publicist. “

“I’m really proud of all the members of our inner-circle over the past 12 years– Millenials may lack experience– but they are also tech-savvy super-stars, who are smart and tough. I like to be surrounded by young people who are unafraid to take risks, to develop new skills and offer a fresh perspective. That ethos has always been vital to who we are as a company.”

Mr. Kluger also gave some thought to his own job satisfaction. “Like journalists, public relations practitioners usually work on a deadline, and every day is different. You find structure out of chaos, and you tell a story, solve a problem. There is a feeling of pride in that. Then the next day is new again, and you’re challenged again, meeting new people, solving new problems.” “Ultimately, it’s my job to help people–and nothing beats that.” Mr. Kluger would not give any definite predictions about the future of his company, but he said, “I hope that if my sevenyear-old son Robbie reads this article in the future he will know I believe that my greatest accomplishment is being his Dad.”

Asked if he would like Robbie to choose public relations as a career, Mr. Kluger replied, “I want him to be happy, to do something worthwhile, and to share his talents and joy with the world. I want his motivation to be love. The reason anything is worth doing is because of love.”

To learn more visit: www.adamklugerpr.com

Adam Kluger PR – Public Relations Firm New York City

FARZANA FOUNDATION

The Farzana Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 private foundation, whose mission is to provide funding for the construction of fresh water wells within the many small Afghan villages, which do not enjoy this basic necessity of everyday life.

Connect @thefarzanafoundation www.thefarzanafoundation.com

On November 29th, 2022, the Farzana Foundation held its Inaugural Gala in Manhattan at the Apostle's Ballroom, which was well-attended by notable entrepreneurs, anchors, actresses, artists, models, and fashion designers, including emcee C-King, three-time Emmy awardwinning anchor and two-time New York Times best-selling author Rita Cosby, fashion designer/supermodel Avadora Mimouni, and fashion designer Elie Balleh.

The evening included a buffet dinner, fashion show featuring looks by designer Diana Mahrach and makeup and hair artist Donna Sousa, and a silent auction featuring exquisite artworks by artist Tatyana Horoshko, Gretchen Olga Schwartz and Vill E. Wright. Sponsors included Empire Rockefeller vodka, Quint Capital, and La Mila Catering & Events. 100% of funds raised went to the funding water wells in the region of Herat, Afghanistan.

Since 2017, Farzana’s family has provided funding for more than 61 freshwater wells in the area surrounding Farzana’s birth city, Herat, located in the Northwestern parts of the country near the border with Iran, where Farzana spent the first nine years of her life. This has enabled families living in this area to enjoy this basic necessity most readily. While each of these wells provides waters to hundreds of families, there is a great need to construct many more. Those who do not have a freshwater well in their village must frequently travel great distances on foot and physically carry back heavy containers of water for their families. As a mother of three, Farzana recognizes the difficulties one experiences as a parent under normal conditions let alone an untenable environment where one has little supply of basic necessities, such as water.

Farzana feels particularly passionate about this project since her own life experiences closely parallel challenges that unfolded in Afghanistan. After the Russian invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, she was subjected to terrifying war and bloodshed over a two-year period, during which members of her nuclear family were murdered by the invading forces. Many of her surviving family were forced to flee the country or face death, although some remained to face the aftermath. Farzana’s harrowing experience inspired her determination to create a more palatable situation for those who remain in Afghanistan. As an

with Julianne Michelle

advocate for women's rights and as a survivor of domestic violence, Farzana is deeply troubled by the subordination and general abuse experienced by women under the current regime and tirelessly supports justice in the area.

Farzana is a passionate and accomplished veteran of the healthcare service industry, who, for the first fifteen years of her career, worked as a senior registered nurse at some of the most prestigious hospitals in the city of Hamburg, Germany, where her family finally settled after fleeing the ravages of war in her birth country of Afghanistan. In 2011, Farzana moved to the US, where she shifted her focus from medicine to becoming a full-time skincare specialist (NY licensed aesthetician) and celebrity makeup-artist.

For more information go to www.thefarzanafoundation.com IG: @thefarzanafoundation

Rita Cosby, Farzana Niemann, Diana Sare, and Lorraine Silvetz Photo credit: Jeff Smith

Jose Castelo Branco, Tomaczek Bednarek, Rita Cosby, Farzana Niemann, Avadora Mimouni, Alex Quint, Lorraine Silvetz, and Julianne Michelle Photo credit: Jeff Smith

TODD J. STEIN

Throws His Hat in the Ring as District Leader Elder Care Advocate Has Learned From the Best

By Adam Kluger

It was an interesting couple of years for Todd J. Stein; especially time spent “learning from the best”, Stein said describing volunteer work he did for Democratic candidates Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, newly elected Assembly Member Alex Bores, and Governor Kathy Hochul. Over the past 2 years, after spending time with our hardworking elected officials, advocating for his parents, and volunteering at the Lenox Hill Senior Center, Stein became passionate about advocating for others.

When he first needed help for his parents, his first calls were to Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright and Senator Liz Krueger. Their staff provided guidance to Stein. He realized issues he and his parents faced were intergenerational. Stein learned about the important work District Leaders do, and in the past 6 months, has been asked numerous times, “What is a District Leader?” When he further researched this role, he realized he is a perfect fit for this position. And since his birthdate overlaps two generations (Generation X and Baby Boomers), he relates well to these 2 large generations and understands their needs. Stein was born in 1965 at New York Hospital. He was raised in the same building since he turned six, at East 68th and 2nd Avenue, just a few blocks from the hospital. This neighborhood has been his home his entire life.

Stein said, “I would be honored if I were elected District Leader of AD76 Part A to represent my community.” Additionally, Stein fostered relationships with several elected officials and has huge respect for their work; including Assembly Member of the 76th District, Rebecca Seawright, Manhattan Borough President, Mark Levine, and Council Members, Keith Powers and Julie Menin. They work hard for the community. Stein said “I look forward to doing the same!”

Stein’s goal is to gain endorsement from the Four Freedoms Democratic Club. Stein found he shares interests with many members, especially those relating to eldercare and civic engagement.

Stein’s campaign has over a dozen small businesses (in the East 60s and 70s) already endorsing his campaign. Marlene Schneider, Stein’s Campaign Manager, said “It will be the first time that Todd is campaigning for himself. Over the past year, he canvassed, door knocked and participated in phone banks, etc. He’s well suited for the role; his appeal is he’s approachable and cares about the neighborhood.” “Now it’s time to petition for my election so I can help upper east siders, and I am looking forward to it,” Stein said with confidence.

For more information please visit: https://www. toddjstein.com/

“As a native New Yorker, I see many issues we are facing in our community. We need safer streets, better access to public transportation, and healthcare for our loved ones. Let's open the dialogue and listen to our neighbors. ”

– Todd J. Stein, Community Advocate

Todd Stein and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney

Todd Stein and Governor Kathy Hochul

anniewatt.com

Through the Lens

Whether it is a magazine cover, a charitable cause, or a special occasion, the photographers with Annie Watt.com make an occasion more memorable. Annie and her associate photographers embody the essence of professionalism, seamlessly moving through any assignment with finesse and an innate ability to capture the moment at its heart. To book a photographer, contact annie@anniewatt.com

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VERDURA COCKTAIL RECEPTION FOR AUTHOR DEEDA BLAIR FOOD, FLOWERS & FANTASY

FRENCH HERITAGE GALA

THE FUTURE OF ANTIQUES, LUXURY AND BESPOKE MARKETS IN THE DIGITAL AGE

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FEATURING ARTIST RON BURKHARDT at Palm Beach Advanced Aesthetics

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AUDREY GRUSS & KATHERINE LANDE HOST

KICK-OFF FOR SHOP FOR HOPE

THREE-DAY SHOPPING AT SFA PALM BEACH

BENEFITTING HDRF

AAudrey Gruss, founding chair of the leading non-profit Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF), hosted a luncheon at Le Bilboquet to gather local HDRF supporters to plan Shop for Hope – a collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue and the luxury brand Aquazurra -- to benefit the charity.

Shop for Hope will take place at Saks in Palm Beach from Wednesday February 15 through Friday, February 17; the three-day event will be open to the public, and a portion of all sales storewide will go to HDRF’s urgent biomedical research into clinical depression and anxiety.

Bibi Siegel, VP/General Manager of Saks Fifth Avenue Palm Beach, and fashion stylist Katherine Lande were featured guests at the planning luncheon. They confirmed that the highlight of the Shop for Hope event will be a private cocktail reception on Wednesday, February 15 with Edgardo Ossorio, designer and owner of Aquazurra, who will display his latest handbag and shoe creations. Invitation only.

Shop for Hope will lead up to HDRF’s Fifth Annual Race of Hope, a 5K Run/Walk in Palm Beach on Saturday, February 18 at 8 am. To join the Race of Hope, go to: PalmBeach.RaceOfHopeSeries.com.

Audrey Gruss said: “Depression is the Number One cause of disability worldwide, and rates of depression have tripled in the U.S. due to the pandemic. I am moved by the support and leadership of Saks Fifth Avenue in Palm Beach to address one of the most important humanitarian and public health issues of our day.”

“We are honored to support Audrey Gruss and the ongoing mission of Hope [for Depression] to raise funds for scientific research into the origins, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of depression,” said Saks Fifth Avenue VP General Manager Bibi Siegel. “We applaud the significant impact the organization has made in this community and beyond.”

In addition to Audrey Gruss, Bibi Siegel and Katherine Lande, attendees of the planning luncheon included Martin Gruss, Scott Snyder, who

Photo: Katherine Lande, Bibi Siegel, Audrey Gruss

along with Audrey Gruss is Co-Grand Marshal of the 2023 Race of Hope; Hollis Pica, Junior Co-Chair of 2023 Race of Hope; Maura Landers and Race of Hope committee members, Kevin Condon, Tom Quick, Nicola Marcus, Heidi McWilliams, Caroline and Omeed Malik, Clelia Zacharias, Sharon Bush and Bob Murray, Luce Churchill, and Bettina Anderson.

For more information on "Shop for Hope" contact Katherine Lande at klande@klstyleinc.com

For more information, please visit: www.hopefordepression.org

About HDRF

HDRF was founded in 2006 by Palm Beach resident and philanthropist Audrey Gruss in memory of her mother Hope, who struggled with clinical depression. Today, HDRF is the leading nonprofit organization focused solely on advanced depression research into new and better treatments for the illness. The World Health Organization has declared depression as the leading cause of disability worldwide, and yet conventional medications today are outdated and do not fully work for 50% of patients. The mission of the HDRF is to spur innovative neuroscience research into the origins, medical diagnosis, new treatments, and prevention of depression and its related mood disordersbipolar disorder, postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder, anxiety disorder, and suicide. To date, HDRF has provided more than $50 million through over 200 grants for breakthrough depression research that promises to transform the way depression is viewed, diagnosed, treated and prevented. Currently, HDRF has a potential new class of medication in pilot clinical trials at Mount Sinai Medical Center, Columbia University, and Stanford University.

Scott Snyder, Hollis Pica

Luce Churchill, Tom Quick, Nicola Marcus

Caroline Malik, Omeed Malik, Bettina Anderso

Sharon Bush, Tom Murray Heidi McWilliams, Clelia Zacharias

ELYSIAN

HAS LANDED:

RUNWAY 7’S NEW YORK FASHION WEEK

INAUGURAL CATWALK FURBABY SHOW

By Harry Brads

lysian, an international luxury lifestyle brand founded by Karen Floyd and created to inspire and reflect the interests of women, held the Inaugural CatWalk FurBaby fundraiser at Sony Hall, to launch New York Fashion Week 2023, hosted by Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin. The evening before Elysian hosted a fashion fete at Lafayette 148 on Madison Avenue, New York with a portion of the proceeds being donated to the Bissell Pet Foundation. CatWalk FurBaby was conceived by Elysian Founder & CEO, Karen Floyd as a way to bring together creative powerhouses, women change-makers, and animal welfare organizations in an effort to make the world better for our furry companions under the auspices of ELYSIAN Impact, the brand’s philanthropic arm.

CatWalk FurBaby paired designers, models, rescue animals and charities together for a morning of passion with a purpose. Ten models – wearing outfits designed by fashion designers (several of whom are members of SohoMuse) including Marc Bouwer, Malan Breton, Karen Caldwell, Anne Fontaine, Gloria Lee, Merci Dupre, Nicole Miller, Noize Apparel, Victor de Souza and Brook Wilder – each graced the runway with a four-legged companion, and a panel of celebrity judges headed by Fern Mallis with Carol Alt and Karen Abercrombie handed out awards to animal welfare organizations paired with each modeland-pet team.

The ten animal welfare organizations represented on the runway were: Operation Kindness (Texas), Friends of Williamson County Animal Shelter (Tennessee), Jameson Humane (California), Danny & Ron’s Rescue (South Carolina and Florida), Big Dog Ranch Rescue (Florida), Freedom Dogs (Ohio and California), Strong Island Animal Rescue League (New York), Global Strays (New York, International), Animal

Advocates of Barnwell County (South Carolina), and Companion Animal Alliance (Louisiana). Puppy Models for the show were provided by Rescue Dogs Rock NYC (New York) and the Spartanburg Humane Society (South Carolina).

The Inaugural awards were presented to; The Judges Choice: Global Strays (Designer: Gloria Lee), People’s Choice: Big Dog Ranch Rescue (Designer: Anne Fontaine), Publishers Choice: Danny & Ron’s Rescue (Designer: Marc Bouwer).

Global Strays has a World-wide mission to reduce the suffering of animals in impoverished regions through funding of animal shelters and bringing services directly into communities in an effort to increase well-being.

Big Dog Ranch Rescue has since its foundation in 2008, Big Dog Ranch Rescue has saved over 50,000 dogs with their mission to save 5,000 dogs every year, to heal and place them with loving families and to educate about proper care.

Danny & Ron’s Rescue was founded After the 2005 Hurricane Katrina to aid dogs that were left homeless by the storm and has grown to rescue puppy mill dogs, bait dogs and shelter dogs.

“This is the first time that fashion, animals and charity have been brought together in New York Fashion Week,” ELYSIAN Founder Karen Floyd said. “To do it in a way that will benefit the lives of countless pets adds a layer of meaning that will not soon be forgotten.”

“Our nation’s animal shelters are facing unprecedented overcrowding due to inflation, housing restrictions, and a decrease in adoptions,” said Cathy Bissell, founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation. “BISSELL Pet Foundation is grateful to be the beneficiary charity of Catwalk FurBaby to make a difference for homeless pets in ten animal welfare organizations across the country. By supporting CatWalk FurBaby, participants will help deserving pets receive much-needed second chances through this one-of-a-kind event.”

Notable Attendees at the Inaugural CatWalk Furbaby included; Karen Floyd, Dr. Christina Rahm, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Fern Mallis, Carol Alt, Karen Abercrombie, Alveda King, Lt. Gov. (South Carolina) Pamela Evette, Kimberli Scott, Sean Young, Evander Holyfield, Shevon Harris Holyfield, Jean Shafiroff, Cynthia Basinet, Allison Ecung Baroness von Arnim, Elizabeth da Trinidade-Asher, Casey Kohlberg, Jacqueline O’Sullivan, Stacey Silverstein, (Elizabeth Shafiroff for Global Strays, Barbara Gilbert for Big Dog Ranch, Durbin Emerson for Danny & Ron’s Rescue), Nadja Sayej, Bryan Griffin.

Photo Credit: Jared Siskin for PMC / Getty Images, Dave Warren

For more information concerning Elysian, visit www.readelysian.com.

About ELYSIAN: ELYSIAN, a brand dedicated to “Women Inspiring Women,” is a growing print and digital ecosystem for women, led by Publisher Karen Floyd.

SAMUEL WAXMAN CANCER FOUNDATION LEADS EFFORT TO EXPAND INTERNATIONAL NETWORK TO COMBAT CANCER LINKED TO AGING

By Peter Elston

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF), a leading organization dedicated to eradicating cancer, is growing its International Network on Aging and Cancer. Launched in 2018, this network brings together government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, philanthropists, research labs and universities, and other foundations to work together to address the rising incidence of cancer associated with aging and discover innovative preventions and treatments.

Aging is a leading risk factor for developing cancer. Around the world, the median age of a cancer diagnosis is 65 years old, with the highest rates in people between 85-89. According to the World Health Organization, people over age 60 will number over 2 billion by 2050, drastically increasing the global burden of cancer.

“Despite these alarming statistics, research focused on the complex interplay of aging and cancer is underfunded, limiting our ability to both prevent and treat it,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, SWCRF CEO and Founder. “By focusing on aging as a risk factor and forming this international network, SWCRF is one of the few international foundations committed to meeting this crucial clinical need.”

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe.

At a recent workshop organized by SWCRF, leading experts outlined four vital research goals to understand and prevent the rise in cancer in older populations: 1) Identify specific targets for healthy longevity. 2)

Understand the impact of the aged microenvironment on our immune system. 3) Discover biomarkers to evaluate both aging and cancer risk. 4) Develop new treatments to limit therapy-associated cancer in older individuals and establish why aging, in and of itself, impacts cancer treatment.

This year, SWCRF formed two new partnerships – one with the Mark Foundation for Cancer Research and the other with the Israel Cancer Research Fund – which will expand this network and fund projects to specifically examine these four objectives. Together these partnerships will invest nearly $2 million over the next two years and connect scientists who study cancer with those who research aging. Funding will start in fall 2023.

The International Network on Aging and Cancer inaugural initiative joined SWCRF with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and National Institute on Aging (NIA) creating the Partnership for Aging and Cancer Research Program. The goal of this collaboration was to link investigators within the NCI/NIA with scientists at outside institutions. Due to the success, this program was recently extended to fund additional investigators through 2024.

In 2020, SWCRF co-founded the International Center for Aging and Cancer in Hainan China with the Hainan Medical University, and Ruijin Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. The center recently completed construction of new laboratories and is actively recruiting faculty. Additionally, SWCRF partnered with Wiley Publishing to release a new peer-reviewed journal called Aging AND Cancer.

“To eradicate cancer once and for all, we must understand why getting older greatly increases our chances of getting cancer, why some cancers exacerbate aging, and why many current treatments are either too toxic for older patients or simply not effective. Funding innovative, collaborative research is vital,” said Dr. Waxman.

For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org

Revolutionizing the Art World…

Oditto Gallery is one of the world’s first hybrid art gallery.

Oditto Gallery (odittogallery.io) announced its grand opening in Palm Beach, Florida on November 28, 2022. Oditto Galleries primary focus is contemporary art, and we offer diverse pieces of physical and digital (NFT) art. At Oditto Gallery, we build the bridge between dreams, reality, and technology bringing the opportunity for collectors to purchase physical art and digital (NFTs) art. When you collect with Oditto Gallery, not only do you receive a physical piece of art to exhibit, but you also receive the NFT for that physical art.

We promote the ideal that all artists and art collectors should be able to showcase their pieces virtually. All art purchased at the Oditto Gallery comes with certification of authenticity on the blockchain, as well as an NFT to hold on to, share, or sell. Most notably, Oditto Gallery is one of the first recognized galleries to offer NFT monitors, and NFT’s with every piece of physical art. Innovation breeds creativity, and we believe that Oditto exudes creativity in everything we do.

Oditto Gallery boasts some of the finest, hand-selected artists spanning the globe, from Bolivian-born and inspired mixed media artist, David Banegas,(who paints for the Prince of Monaco, to Nina Patel, featured in the Louvre Museum, Asli Osok featured in numerous art exhibits

around the world, Dain one of the most influential street artists to emerge from New York, Toni Sanchez, the ben day dot pop artist from Spain, TRAN$PARENT who has a piece of custom artwork—done on quartzite crystal–that is being brought to the moon in January of 2023 as part of a human time capsule., and several other globally known artists that have jaw dropping pieces. We are proud to represent a diverse roster of innovative and one-of-a-kind artists.

With one foot in the door as a Palm Beach interior designer, Celeste immediately knew that her love of fine art merged with her keen eye and attention to detail would provide a wide range of collections. Oditto Gallery is truly a one-of-a-kind art experience offering an array of custom and commissioned options. Check out our sister company, oditto.io showing Metaverse Galleries and partnering with established artists to build out metaverse galleries, curate, mint, market, promote and sell their NFT’s with strategic SUCCESS. odittogallery.io/contact/

To view our online gallery, go to OdittoGallery.io to learn more about our artists, and to purchase art. Go to https://oditto.io/ to view upcoming NFT drops, and to register to gain early access on sought after NFTs and special events.

THE QUADRILLE BALL

IS A HIGHLIGHT OF THE NEW YORK BALL SEASON

By Peter Elston

The 62nd Annual Quadrille Ball, a white tie charity event, is one of the annual highlights of the New York ball season and was held at 583 Park Avenue in New York City.

The annual Ball is a fundraiser for scholarships awarded to highly qualified American and German undergraduate and graduate students including PhD candidates. The Quadrille was founded more than 60 years ago to enhance and strengthen transatlantic relationships through education. Through its non-profit parent organization, the Germanistic Society of America, Inc., the Quadrille supports undergraduate, master and PhD students.

Recipients are chosen with the cooperation of three highly regarded organizations: Columbia University, the International Institute of Education, and the Fulbright Commission. The graduate students have successfully concluded the Fulbright scholarship application process before being chosen by the Quadrille. Over the years, the Quadrille Scholarship Fund has supported some 700 students from the US and Germany.

The Quadrille Ball itself takes its name from a dance popular in the 18th Century, called “Quadrille.” It is a formal dance in square formation. The Quadrille dance is rehearsed and performed by young professionals who are volunteering their time on the recommendation of alumni, patrons, and friends.

In addition, every year a highly regarded representative of the business or transatlantic community is invited to serve as Guest of Honor. This year Dr. Steven E. Sokol, President of the American Council on Germany followed in the footsteps of other Guests of Honor including Dr. Josef Ackermann, Chairman of the Management Board and the Group Executive Committee of Deutsche Bank; Bernard Meyer, Managing Partner of Meyer Werft GmbH; Dr. Brigitte Mohn, Member of the Supervisory Board of Bertelsmann AG and Member of the Executive Board of Bertelsmann Foundation; Prof. Dr. Dr. Andreas Barner, Chairman of the Board of Managing Directors of Boehringer Ingelheim, Martina Hund-Mejean, CFO of Mastercard; and – most recently Mr. Uffe Ostergaard, President, Hapag-Lloyd (America) LLC.

Photo credit: Milestone Images

Notable attendees at the Quadrille Ball included, Dr. Steven E. Sokol, Raban Freiherr von Arnim, Allison Ecung Freifrau von Arnim, the Consul General of the Republic of Germany, David Gill and his wife Sheila Shrivastava and the Consul General of the Republic of Austria, Helene Steinhäusl and her husband Hubert Heiss, Andrea Ostheimer, Executive Director, Konrad Adenauer Foundation, New York, Dr. Barbara Elling, President, Germanistic Society of America.

Among the sponsors of the Quadrille Ball were: The Mejean Family Foundation (Full Scholarship Sponsor), Max Kade Foundation, Inc., The Bye Family, Dr. William Radin (Platinum Sponsors), The Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation, Dr. and Mrs. Andrew Shiva (Diamond Sponsors).

For more information please visit: www. quadrilleball.org

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