Summer 2023

Summer 23

Currency Matters

Xposure Magazine

Summer

Savor

Wanderlust

Visivo 30

Basquiat’s King

32 ICONOCLASTs

Tributes to Tina Turner, Harry Belafonte,Clarence Avant

Contributors - Roy Rochlin, Theo Wargo, Manny Carabel, Jason Mendez, Dia Dipasupil, Cindy Ord, Arturo Holmes, Michael Loccisano, Jamie McCarthy, Rob Kim.

24 Writer’s Block

26

Heavy Metal

Xposure Magazine is a digital magazine published on a bimonthly basis. ISSN - 21580421. Copyright 2009-2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Views expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily the views of Xposure Magazine. We welcome and accept unsolicited materials. Materials submitted to Xposure Magazine is the person’s guarantee that submitted items are not in violation of or infringing upon the rights of others and that said materials may be reviewed and subject to critique without any third party consent.

Welcome To The Summer 23 Issue!

It’s such a great feeling and blessing to be back with this letter after almost 5 years! I want to thank every single one of my readers globally who continue to support myself and Xposure as we now move into year 14!!! You all know I always save this letter as my last thing to add to the layout because I like to take a moment to connect with you as a reader. As Beyoncé says “I took some time to live my life”, I started a multimedia production company, traveled (even met some of you), and enjoyed this unplanned hiatus. During the hiatus, the world changed with the pandemic and life reset for all of us. So happy to be on the other side of it writing to you now!

This letter is different in a lot of ways, there’s been a lot of life happening and sadly tremendous loss. There’s always been an outpouring of love from you all via emails and direct messages from all over the world. I appreciate those kind words and condolences. You all were supportive in November 2015 when I lost my father. You all really stepped up the love with the loss of my first love - my mom in November 2021. None of this would be possible without my mama. You all embraced her, loved her, she loved every word she read from you giving her love. This issue is dedicated to her and I miss her tremendously.

In 2022, I sought refuge from the heaviness and heartbreak of grief on the island of Maui. The people welcomed me with open arms, hearts and minds. Although my time there was short, (I was there to execute part of my mother’s wishes) - there was no better place for continuing my healing. I left Lahaina and Kāʻanapali with an amazing sense of peace, enriched experiences and with friends like family to me. There was a plan to return in a few weeks to celebrate my birthday on the island.

Tragedy recently landed on the island causing severe destruction, devastating damage and loss due to wildfires. A lot of the historic sites are now gone, it will take time for restoration and recovery. If you want to donate, I recommend the Maui Food Bank. With that in mind, please keep Maui in your hearts and prayers.

As a proud daughter of a Teamster’s member, and niece of IBEW members, Writer, Producer and Director- I stand with all the unions on strike and those considering. With that in mind, there are no ads in this issue, only support for the unions. All of the entertainment industry related content featured was before strikes were authorized and approved #UnionStrong

At the start of this year, I decided to end the hiatus - our first coverage reports were live from this year’s Oscars. Thanks to my friends over at AMPAS, and now we’re here celebrating this summer’s major event - The 22nd Tribeca Festival. This issue captures the Summer perfectly highlighting the festival, and all the news you love from Xposure. Supercars, luxury travel, arts & culture, beauty must-haves and more.

Special thanks to the team at Tribeca, all the PR teams, film companies, our friends at Getty Images, our phenomenal teams at Magzter and Issuu. Lastly, a special thank you to my tribe for loving me through the darkness and lifting me to the light and keeping me where the light is.

Oh and if you haven’t subscribed to our Xposure 365 Podcast and our YouTube channel, you may want to - there’s some exclusives coming faster than you think.

I hope you all love this issue as much as I do! Mama this is for you, love infinity times infinity. Until next time…

Best, Goldyn

Goldyn’s Touch

CurrenCy Matters

BRICS Summit 2023 Amazon Clinic Debuts

Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - Following the trend of countries seeking reserves away from the US Dollar, BRICS recently announced the launch of Gold backed currency. Ahead of the upcoming BRICS Summit in late August, Russia confirmed the launch of a gold trading currency which will surely impact the gold market. Over 41 countries recently applied including

FedNow Launches

Launched by The Federal Reserve, FedNow is reportedly designed to modernize the way bank funds are transferred in America. Unlike CashApp, Apple Pay and other peer to peer payment services, FedNow is a service the Federal Reserve makes available to banks. The banks will build the service into their back end. Your financial institution has to sign up to participate in order for you to receive payments or send payments in mere seconds. The Federal Reserve provides this option to banks for free, although it’s at the bank’s discretion if they add a surcharge to account holders. FedNow operates 24/7 and as of now, it’s not mandatory for banks to participate in the program. At press time, there’s about 35 institutions participating out of thousands.

Amazon Clinic was initially available in only 32 of 50 states, is now available 24/7 to customers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The clinic will treat common health issues as well as offer birth control and emergency contraception. Available via the mobile app, patients will have the ability to complete video visits to have their concerns addressed. It’s the behemoth’s third venture into the medical space since launching Amazon Pharmacy and One Medical Centers.

Ciao Bella

While the Queen has been traveling the world on her Renaissance World Tour, she’s found time to announce two new ventures. Earlier this year, the superstar announced she was fine tuning a hair care line. Now, we celebrate a new fragrance coming this November. First Access fans who preorder this 50ML eau de parfum will be some of the first to get a whiff of this Beyonce.com exclusive fragrance — which has been described as a dreamy concoction of clementine, golden honey (Miss Honeyyyyyyy), rose absolute, and golden amber. A few lucky fans who have attended recent shows, have been given a chance to smell samples. Preorders are available now via Beyoncé’s website.

The house announced the inaugural rollout will include six four-color eye palettes and a “soft-filter” foundation in 33 shades, developed with the use of artificial intelligence.Prada’s makeup and skin care will debut direct-to-consumer via prada-beauty.com and prada.com on Aug. 1, with subsequent rollouts at Harrods and Selfridges in London on Aug. 18; then Douglas in Munich, Frankfurt and Dusseldorf, Germany and Rinascente in Rome in October. The U.S. retail launch is slated for Jan. 2024, according to WWD. Also per WWD, the product range will be priced from 45 euros (for a lipstick) to 360 euros (for a face cream). (The eye shadow will be 80 euros.)

Our obsession with Pat McGrath’s products may be perceived by some as unhealthy but we don’t care! Floral mattes, burgundy orchids, shimmering pearls- this palette gives everything we need to look sunkissed year round! Mother McGrath has never disappointed us when it comes to the richness and depth of the pigments in her products. Jewel toned metallics, blendable textures and ability to apply wet or dry makes this palette a favorite. “Empower your inner seductress with the potent prowess of Mothership XI: Sunlit Seduction. These ten shades are not just an eye palette, they’re a passage to endless possibilities. With the palette’s sensorial formulas and multidimensional shade-shifting pearls, you can effortlessly elevate your eye looks to a realm that’s simply haute of this world. Embrace the sunlit hues.”Sunlit Seduction Mothership is available now from your favorite makeup retailer! (128.00)

Urban Decay’s new Naked Metal Mania Eyeshadow Palette has us excited for its Fall release. The palette offers unique versatility with highly pigmented shades in satin, matte and metallic and sparkle-matte finishes. The palette allows you flexibility to layer colors for a multidimensional look. Naked Metal Mania Metallic will be available via Sephora, Ulta and Nordstrom. Naked Metal Mania Metallic Eyeshadow Palette, $59.00 (Limited Edition)

This brand has had social media in an absolute frenzy the last few months. If you know, you know and if you don’t we’re here to help. Naturium’s Glow Getter Multi-Oil Hydrating Body Wash was one of the first products that went viral. The brand’s site describes it as “Our sensorial, hydrating body wash transforms from a luscious oil to a gentle lather, cleansing without stripping the skin of essential moisture.” Formulated with over 50% glycerin, a blend of linoleic-rich oils and plant-derived squalane, this transformative body cleanser is rich in humectants that hydrate and nourish skin.

For under $20 USD of course we gave it a try to see if it’s worth the hype. We first used it to wash our hands and upon drying we immediately bought 4 more bottles. This body wash give you ultra silky skin without irritation and dryness for those of us with skin sensitivities. Our second favorite item from Naturium is their Bio-Lipid Restoring Body Lotion. It’s described as “Our replenishing body lotion works to restore skin’s natural barrier for soft and supple looking skin. Formulated with omega fatty acids, shea butter, B vitamins and sodium PCA, this lotion moisturizes skin and absorbs quickly with no greasy residue.” This lotion is the only lotion needed, it leaves your skin well hydrated and happy. This lotion did not leave us needing more throughout the day as some tend to do. We’ve become extremely obsessed with other products from the brand as we transition from Summer to Fall/Winter like the KP Body Scrub & Mask which is a 3-in-1 body exfoliant that transforms bumpy, dry, rough, and dull skin. Formulated with pumice and jojoba esters, plus AHA/BHA/PHA chemical exfoliants, the scrub grips, polishes and smooths skin. Use as a mask for an effective in-shower treatment. This scrub and mask can be used once or twice a month to keep your skin smooth and supple year round and is added to our shower essentials as well. Our other favorites include The Smoother products and more. Naturium has various packages for different skin goals and most sell out quickly so stock up now!

Haute Plate

Louis Vuitton’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection introduced Pharrell’s highly anticipated debut as Creative Director of the house. Pharrell’s work with Vuitton started in 2008 where he codesigned a series of eyewear and jewelry. There were lots of expectations and speculation if Pharrell was the right choice for the role as the house was seeking to find a proper successor after the passing of Virgil Abloh. Only Vuitton could shut down the Pont Neuf bridge in Paris for their runway show. Stars filled the seats as William’s collection was presented against the musical backdrop of hip hop and gospel. Williams Voices of Fire Choir performed Joy as the models took the runway for the final walk before Williams and team completed the finale. The collection and show was a perfect mix of what Pharrell has represented over the years. “It’s immersive. And it’s very inspired by the love and support of the people here that I’ve just been blessed to be able to experience over the past 30 years.”

Savage X Fenty: Maternity

Rihanna has come through for mamas and mamas to be with Savage x Fenty Maternity! The new line crafted by Rihanna, includes three new bralette styles, including the Savage X Cotton Maternity Bralette, the Floral Lace Maternity Bralette and the Savage Not Sorry Maternity Bralette. Bralette sizes range XXS to 4X featuring adjustable clasps, straps all managed with one hand functionality to help mama and baby! We’re sure with the debut of this collection, there will be more to come! Savage X Fenty Maternity is available now!

We’re officially less than a month from NYFW, the schedule has familiar brands and houses making their debut. NYFW will run from Sept. 8 through Sept. 13. More than 71 designers will showcase their collections during the 5 day fashion celebration. 3.1 Philllip Lim, Johnathan Cohen, Helmut Lang, Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren are set to return after taking a break from NYFW.

Pharrell’s Vuitton Debut

NYFW S/S24 Preliminary Schedule

Moncler x Billionaire Boys Club

As BBC celebrates their 20th anniversary, we find ourselves smitten with their new collab with Moncler. The collection features a logo mashup of Moncler’s blue logo with BBC’s astronaut. Moncler’s iconic puffer features BBC’s Diamond & Dollar print down the sleeves as well as the back of the piece. A couple favorites from the collaboration are a wool Diamonds and Dollars knit beanie. The boots in the collection feature a GORE-TEX waterproof membrane along with Vibram MEGAGRIP rubber compound tread which alters the shape just a bit. Of course the signature BBC shirts with the Moncler logo is also a favorite. This collaboration is available now via both brand’s websites as well as all global BBC flagship locations.

CHANEL HAUTE COUTURE

Virginie Viard presented Chanel’s Haute Couture Fall/Winter collection along the Siene riverbank facing the Eiffel Tower. The collection Viard stated was inspired by Parisian allure. Silhouettes play with masculine codes, mixing together rigor and asymmetry, a self-confident and discreet figure. Here’s some of our favorite looks.

triBeCa 2023

This year marked the 22nd year of the Tribeca Festival held in New York, the 11 day celebration of film. With more than 600 events throughout the city, including slates of world premiering films, TV, Games & Immersive, live music & audio storytelling events, plus countless talks with iconic artists, directors, and multi-hyphenate entertainers, the 2023 Festival was one for the books.

We had the honor and distinct pleasure to attend quite a few world premieres, celebrations and more! A few of our favorite moments above included the live show for Pod Save America featuring Secretary Hilary Clinton whose insight into our state of democracy was sobering. There were a few light moments when Clinton’s laughter filled the room especially as she held a shirt stating Totally Impartial Potential Juror.

Other highlights of photos above include moments from Tribeca Storytellers series - Paul McCartney and Conan O’Brien, Jane Fonda sat with Robin Roberts and was honored with the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award. Clive Davis attended the premiere of Carlos - a documentary of the legendary musician. Gloria Gaynor (featured on our cover) attended the premiere of her documentary I Will Survive.

The cast of The Blackening walked the black carpet for their Tribeca premiere. Walt Frazier, Bill Bradley, Spike Lee, Cory Booker, Dick Barnett andothers attending ‘Rolling Along’ Tribeca Festival documentary film premiere.

The Beacon Theatre hosted the closing gala celebration of A Bronx Tale30th Anniversary with director, star and Tribeca Festival co-founder Robert De Niro, producer and Tribeca Festival co-founder Jane Rosenthal, co-stars Chazz Palminteri, Katherine Narducci, and Joseph D’Onofrio. We truly enjoyed this year’s festival and looking forward to celebrating next year’s events.

Pod Save America

Indeed, Lena Waithe and her Hillman Grad Productions came together for the third year in a row to create an initiative known as Rising Voices. 10 Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) filmmakers were chosen and premiered their short films. Each film surrounded the singular theme of the future of work and every filmmaker was awarded a $10,000 writing fee, received a $100,000 production budget, and a dedicated line production crew through Hillman Grad and 271 Films. Ten filmmakers were selected from over 500 applicants to create short films around the singular theme “the future of work.” Indeed truly believes the world can work better and a key component of that vision is extending opportunity to all people.All 10 Season 3 films are now available for streaming via risingvoicesfilms.com.

AT&T, together with Tribeca Festival, is once again connecting emerging, historically underrepresented filmmakers to greater possibilities with the sixth installment of AT&T Presents: Untold Stories – an annual pitch competition and year-round mentorship program. Writer/director David Fortune and producer Kiah Clingman were this year’s winners for their film Color Book. Color Book paints an inspiring portrait of Atlanta, and the concepts of disability and community in the city. The film follows a devoted father learning to raise his son who has Down Syndrome after the family’s matriarch passes away. While adjusting to their new reality, the duo embarks on a journey through Metro Atlanta to attend their first baseball game. Fortune and Clingman were selected from four other finalists to win $1 million and receive year-round mentorship for the feature film’s production. Much like Fortune’s prior films, Color Book normalizes themes of compassion and intimacy in inner-city communities. This year’s winner received $1M to take their pitch from idea to full-length feature film that will debut at the 2024 Tribeca Festival. Finalists pitched their story ideas at Spring Studios in New York City at the AT&T Untold Stories Lounge on to an accomplished, expert panel of jurors including actor Derek Luke (“Antwone Fisher,” “Glory Road” and “Captain America: The First Avenger”), Kellyn Smith Kenny (Chief Marketing and Growth Officer, AT&T), and actor/producer Mo McRae (“A Lot of Nothing”), “The First Purge” and “Wild”). The panel was moderated by journalist and host Brooke Baldwin. AT&T joined forces with Tribeca to unite communities through innovative storytelling across film, TV, games and more. Since the beginning of the program in 2017, AT&T has rewarded over $6M to connect historically underrepresented filmmakers with the resources needed to reach greater possibilities.

The 22nd annual Tribeca Festival, presented by OKX, today announced the winning storytellers in its competition categories at an awards ceremony at Racket NYC. The top honors went to Cypher for the Founders Award for Best U.S. Narrative Feature, A Strange Path for Best International Narrative Feature, and Between the Rains for Best Documentary Feature. Awards were given in the following competition categories: Feature Film, Short Film, Audio Storytelling, Immersive, Games, Human / Nature, AT&T Untold Stories, and Tribeca X. Some award winners received the unique Tribeca Festival Art Award from a selection of artists led by curator Racquel Chevremont. Supported by CHANEL, the world-class artists donated work to honored filmmakers.

U.S. NARRATIVE COMPETITION

Founders Award for Best U.S. Narrative Feature: Chris Moukarbel for Cypher, (United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For its kaleidoscopic use of music, created imagery and found materials, in service of an interrogation of celebrity, conspiracy culture and the nature of narrative reality itself.” This award is sponsored by OKX.

Best Performance in a U.S. Narrative Feature: Ji-Young Yoo for Smoking Tigers, (United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For this actor’s skill in holding the depth of their character’s experience with a quiet strength, vulnerability and a willingness to stay soft and open to their scene partners and camera alike.”

Best Screenplay in a U.S. Narrative Feature: So Young Shelly Yo for Smoking Tigers, (United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “This screenplay pulled us into its leading characters, making us care deeply about their pasts and futures. It skillfully juggled multiple storylines and journeys with nuance, emotional honesty, deft sequencing until the final beautiful scene.”

Best Cinematography in a U.S. Narrative Feature: Caroline Costa for The Graduates, (United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “From th e very first frame, it was clear the cinematographer was someone in complete command of their craft. From their naturalistic approach to lighting to tight compositions, the cinematographer supported the emotional journey of the film at every turn.”

U.S. Narrative Feature Special Jury Mention: Monica Sorelle for Mountains, (United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For its authentic, specific portrayal of a culture we had not seen on screen. A deeply emotional and empathetic portrait of a family in a changing world with brilliant leading performances.”

INTERNATIONAL NARRATIVE COMPETITION

Best International Narrative Feature: Guto Parente for A Strange Path, (Brazil) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “In considering the International Narrative Feature Award, one film rose to the top with its surprising warmth and deeply compelling storytelling. We are honored to present the best International Narrative Feature award to Guto Parente for A Strange Path.”

Best Performance in an International Narrative Feature: Carlos Francisco for A Strange Path,(Brazil) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “In a slate full of compelling performances, one radiated a magnetic realism. In a brief but essential turn, this actor balanced the nuances of humanity and demanded to be watched. We happily honor Carlos Francisco with Best Performance in an International Narrative Feature.”

Best Screenplay in an International Narrative Feature: Guto Parente for A Strange Path,(Brazil) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “A great screenplay is a combination of structure and poetry. Our award is going to a screenplay that gave us not only the grief of reconciliation but a joyful expression of absurdity.”

Best Cinematography in an International Narrative Feature: Linga Acácio for A Strange Path, (Brazil) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “The Winner in this category blew us away with the strength of their visual force. Cinematography that illuminates the narrative with not only the natural beauty of the location, but the psychological landscape of the lead.”

DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION

Best Documentary Feature: Andrew H. Brown and Moses Thuranira for Between the Rains,(Kenya) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For craft, storytelling, impact — and above all a raw, elegant coming-of-age portrait of resilience that unanimously blew us away.”

Tribeca 2023 Competition Winners

Best Cinematography in a Documentary Feature: Andrew H. Brown for Between the Rains, (Kenya) - World Premiere. Jury comment:“Combining the patience and elegance of portraiture — with the immediacy of observational cinema verite — this cinematographer truly transported us into a rarely seen world.”

Best Editing in a Documentary Feature: Mark Bukdahl and Orvar Anklew for The Gullspång Miracle, (Sweden, Norway, Denmark) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For cleverly and adeptly taking us on an entertaining and emotionally-layered mystery that zigs, zags and surprises.”

Documentary Competition Special Jury Mention: David Gutnik for Rule of Two Walls, (Ukraine) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For embedding us with a group of artists who refused to be stripped of their heritage and cultural expression, we would like to give a special jury mention for human rights and artistic expression to Rule of Two Walls.”

ALBERT MAYSLES AWARD FOR BEST NEW DOCUMENTARY DIRECTOR

Sponsored by Bulleit

Jude Chehab for Q, (Lebanon, United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “At the end of the day the Jury chose to recognize the rising luminance of a young director who epitomizes the essence of the New Director award. “She did it all.” She wrote, produced, directed and shot this oblique and complicated family story in the closed world of a mysterious Syrian spiritual order. Her photography is gorgeous, and she speaks with the indomitable drive of a voice demanding to be heard. We are united in our curiosity to follow her development as an artist and observe what she does next.”

Best New Documentary Director Award Special Jury Mention: co-Director

Nate Pommer for Scream of My Blood: A Gogol Bordello Story, (United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “The first Special Jury mention goes to Scream of My Blood: A Gogol Bordello Story, for the enduring use of art as a weapon against cant and authoritarianism. We are grateful to the director for translating Gogol Bordello’s rebellious joy and rage at remaining human and vibrant in the face of everything time has thrown in its path.”

New Documentary Director Special Jury Mention: Jane M. Wagner for Break the Game, (United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “We gave the special jury mention to BREAK THE GAME for taking the innovative risks in its execution, that its protagonist took discovering her authentic self. Within the sterile confines of an electronic universe, the director revealed the critical core of human connection, kindness and growth, which we can shorthand as the real meaning of love.

NORA EPHRON AWARD

Gabriella A. Moses, Boca Chica, (Dominican Republic) - World Premiere. “With strong visual language that drew us in, lived in performances and original magnetic storytelling, this movie fearlessly confronted family dynamics. The filmmaker expertly portrays the disparity between how the American dream is perceived outside of the US versus the experience of immigrants freshly arriving on American soil. Honoring the chaos of puberty while introducing its exploitation.”

Nora Ephron Award Special Jury Mention:Smoking Tigers, (United StatesWorld Premiere. Jury comment: “A film with an intimate power, captivating performances and striking cinematography. This film tenderly explores the complexity of adolescence, the immigrant experience, being a child of divorce and how familial trauma can impact romantic relationships.”

SHORTS COMPETITION

Best Narrative Short: Annie-Claude Caron and Danick Audet for Dead Cat, (Canada) – World Premiere. Jury comment: “Out of the impressive list of narrative shorts, this one stood out as a complete work that surprised, entertained, and resonated on a universal level. This film tells the story of parents trying to shield their daughter from the reality of death, but it does so with equal amounts of grounded humor and depth.”

Best Animated Short: Mitra Shahidi forStarling, (United States) – World Premiere. Jury comment: “On its surface, mourning the death of a child is a challenging subject matter, but this film explores it with charm, mischievousness, and a dash of hope. The animation is immersive and stylized in the best ways. To select this as the winner was unanimous.”

Student Visionary Award: Daniela Soria Gutiérrez for Fairytales, (Mexico) –World Premiere. Jury comment: “This director brought a naturalistic style to a child’s imagination with uncanny and nuanced hints of revulsion woven into a greater story of friendship.”

Best Documentary Short: Joe Brewster and Michele Stephenson for Black Girls Play: The Story of Hand Games, (United States) – World Premiere. Jury comment: “A story that has yet to be told about a vital driving force in music, culture, and society spanning multiple generations.”

Documentary Short Special Jury Mention: Devon Blackwell for Goodbye, Morganza, Jury comment: “This film is a beautiful, humanity filled portrait of a family that tells the larger American story of race, economic inequity, and home.”

TRIBECA IMMERSIVE COMPETITION

Main Competition - Storyscapes Award: Eloise Singer for The Pirate Queen: A Forgotten Legend, (United Kingdom) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For its outstanding technical execution, immersive user experience, and unique and untold story of a nearly forgotten woman in history.”

TRIBECA GAMES AWARD

KO_OP, Goodbye Volcano High, (Canada, United States) - World Premiere. Jury comment: “For how much this game felt of the moment and questions whether you should still care about anything when everything sucks — complete with doom scrolling, dinosaurs and high school band drama.”

TRIBECA AUDIO STORYTELLING COMPETITION

Fiction Audio Storytelling Award: Alex Kemp for The Very Worst Thing That Could Possibly Happen (Wolf at the Door Studios) – World Premiere. Jury comment: “This piece is an ambitious production that drew the listener in, and had us wondering what mysteries would unfold. It was intriguing, moving, and created a strong sense of place in its audio storytelling. We can’t wait to hear the next episode of The Very Worst Thing That Could Possibly Happen.”

Narrative Nonfiction Audio Storytelling Award: Aline Laurent-Mayard for Free From Desire(Paradiso Media) – World Premiere. Jury comment: “For its delightfulness, its fresh perspective, and its deceptively-easy-sound, we would like to award the Tribeca Audio Award for Established Audio to “Free From Desire” by Paradiso Media. This compelling personal story has lessons and insights for anyone with a body. Aline’s evocative and charming writing was a spoonful of sugar for a deeply-entrenched problem in larger society: the ways we do and don’t talk about sexuality, and how that impacts our sense of belonging in the world.”

All You Hear Is Noise

Our friends over at The Springhill Company and Uninterrupted invited us to the World Premiere of All Your Hear is Noise, their latest documentary project from that explores the stories of three U.S. triathletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) as they train to compete in the Special Olympics World Games. Executive produced by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, the project follows the intersecting journeys of Trent Hampton, Melanie Holmes, and Chris Wines as they travel to the United Arab Emirates in search of glory, community, and the prospect of reshaping harmful ideologies about disability communities at home and beyond. The premiere was hosted by Robin Roberts which also included a phenomenal Q&A with the stars of the film. This film gives the audience insight into the personal and professional lives of its stars. Watching the families, trainers, coaches and their relationships with the athletes was so inspiring. The unique experience of attending this premiere was watching the audience reactions as we cheered and cried during the film. There was a standing ovation from us for about five minutes once credits rolled. Dynamic, endearing, complex storytelling at the highest level that leaves the audience inspired.

Smoking Tigers

One of our favorite shorts during Tribeca is KONPA. We had the pleasure to watch an advanced screening and were honored fo meet Writer, Producer, and Director Al’Ikens Plancher recently. KONPA is a beautiful story that takes you deep into Haitian culture through Konpa, a dance music and modern méringue in Haiti.We follow Jean (Edson Jean) into a small family-owned restaurant, where he is stymied as he cannot speak Haitian Creole. His crush Minouche (Nagela Lukacs) enters from the back and leads him to the dance floor where she teaches him the beauty of Konpa and Haitian Creole. Plancher told us he wrote this story as a love letter to his culture. The storytelling is excellent, we’re still enthralled thinking of the beautifully shot dancing scenes. Jean and Minouche’s chemistry ignites as soon as Jean walks in and sees her for the first time. We watch as the couple balances family, language barriers with love. The last minute of the film resonated deeply for us and all audiences. The live-action short film has been selected for the world premiere in competition at the prestigious OSCAR-qualifying Tribeca Festival this June. KONPA was selected from 8,096 submissions, with its four screenings selling out in just thirty minutes. KONPA is a fantastic short that makes us think about what true love really looks like.

We were honored to attend the world premiere of Smoking Tigers during the festival. This film is a coming of age story of Hayoung who is 16 when life changes as she knows it. Smoking Tigers tells the story of Hayoung, a 16-year-old Korean American girl living in Los Angeles during the early 2000s. As she finds herself drawn into the world of three affluent students she encounters at an elite academic boot-camp, Hayoung must navigate the delicate balance between concealing her troubled family background and embracing the complexities of adulthood. The way the story unfolds makes you laugh, cry and root for Hayoung and her family to win.

The film offers a poignant exploration of identity, friendship, and the transformative power of life-altering experiences. Smoking Tigers was one of the best films during Tribeca and went on to win well deserved awards. Congrats to Director So Young Shelly Yo and her team, we look forward to more films!

KONPA

roBert De niro HonoreD

The 2023 Tribeca Festival kicked off with a pre-reception honoring Robert De Niro - where Mayor Adams gave De Niro a key to the city. Following the ceremony, De Niro received a surprise speech from Martin Scorsese, congratulating him on his commitment to Tribeca, New York, and the festival. Guests included Mark Ruffalo, Debra Messing, Billy Porter, Patty Jenkins, Peter Coyote, Noah Centineo, Dianna Agron, Julian Schnabel, Piper Perabo, and New York Nico. Following the reception, the opening night screening was the North American premiere of the highly anticipated Kiss the Future documentary featuring U2’s journey to perform a longpromised concert to the people of Sarajevo. Producer Matt Damon attended the event along with Brendan Fraser, Jennifer Esposito, Noah Centineo, Adam Goldberg and Tribeca Festival co-founders Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal.

savor

Sicily has a brand new café in Taormina we can’t wait to visit after a long day of shopping. Louis Vuitton has opened its first concept cafe, inside the Louis Vuitton store. The café offers two menus - Salty and Sweet which gives clients a chance to experience local flavors. Menu highlights include croissants with pistachio cream, mini cassata, arancini and also a selection of small Sicilian desserts. Taormina is the latest resort boutique Louis Vuitton has opened. Other locations include: Greece spotlighting its LV by The Pool collection, the Hamptons; Saint Tropez, France; Bodrum, Turkey, and Mykonos. The café also provides a special drink menu as well as an à la carte available throughout the day

Snoop has partnered with Dr. Bombay to bring extra flavor & vibes to us all. Snoop’s new flavors include S’More Vibes, Bonus Track Brownie or Iced Out Orange Cream. Other flavors include Cocoa Cream Cookie Dream, Tropical Sherbet Swizzle, Syrupy Waffle Sundaze and Rollin’ In the Dough. Dr. Bombay Ice Cream is currently available to cop (for $4.98 USD) at a total of 3500 Walmart stores nationwide. In the coming months, Dr. Bombay Ice Cream is expected to hit shelves in other retailers including Winn Dixie, ShopRite, Albertsons/Safeway, and Gopuff. Visit the Dr. Bombay Snax website to stay updated on new flavors and release details.

Heinz has collaborated with London based juggernaut Morley for a tantalizing pop up at The Double Standard. Menu highlights include wings with Heinz sauces like BBQ Glaze, Sweet Chili Glaze, and Smoky Chipotle Ketchup. Dessert includes a chocolate sundae with Heinz Ketchup syrup. Sauces are available to add to the chicken sandwiches and more. Chicken & waffles for brunch feature a honey glaze and Heinz BBQ. Heinz x Morley’s is at Double Standard, London until September 3.

WanDerlust

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System announced a new program which requires travelers to have a visa to visit specific regions. The pandemic delayed the implementation of the program which now becomes effective in 2024. A US passport alone will not be enough. ETIAS will require British and American travelers to apply and pay a small fee for authorization for travel to participating countries. 30 countries are participating including Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Germany, Sweden, France, Denmark, Croatia and more. Applications are now available through the ETIAS website, processing can take up to few weeks so apply early.

If you’re a loyalty member of one or all three major Expedia Group companies: Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo, OneKey is now available to you. As we enjoy the last days of Summer and move into Fall, booking travel has become a little easier to plan and manage. OneKey recently launched to give members rewards which can be redeemed for future travel with OneKey Cash. Minimum purchase to qualify for rewards is $25, for every dollars spent you can earn 2% in OneKeyCash. You can use any of the three platforms to register and begin earning and enjoying rewards.

A $4,850 suite offers celebrities and others private TSA screening and luxuries such as drinks, food, a shower, spa and a daybed. Starting September 6, travelers will be able to enjoy the luxury terminal life at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport but there are some restrictions. “Opening our second PS location in America’s busiest airport will bring the countless travelers that fly to and through Atlanta the convenience and luxury that has become synonymous with the PS brand,” said Amina Porter, CEO of PS stated. The new PS ATL facility will be co-located adjacent to Signature’s private aviation terminal, which opened in January 2020, to enable a seamless transition from private aircraft to commercial airlines.Perks include: A private TSA screening free of lines, along with onsite customs and immigration processing at the terminal. When it’s time to head to the aircraft, you’re escorted by a private driver in a BMW to board the plane straight from the tarmac. You can choose to be in the first group or the last group to board the plane. There is more to enjoy while waiting on your flight, including a private suite which offers an entertainment center, fully stocked snack and beverage bar and an ensuite bathroom for you and 6 travelers. Other amenities include: enjoy an extensive menu of cocktails and chef-prepared meals, as well as spa and beauty offerings such as massages, manicure and barber services. Pricing range is $1,095 - $4850. Reservations are open now, annual memberships are available. Terminal packages can be purchased for one way of round trip travel.

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority urges visitors to refrain from going to West Maui (including Lahaina, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua) as a means of respect to the people and places that have been lost in Lahaina during this devastating tragedy. The August 13 emergency proclamation remains in place, with all nonessential travel to West Maui being strongly discouraged through the month of August.The impacted area of Lāhainā remains off limits to the public as the search and recovery efforts continue. Travelers are urged to consider visiting other areas of Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia and Hāna), or other islands such as Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island. Airlines are allowing travelers to change their trips to the island, the latest from the airlines are:

Alaska Airlines has instituted a flexible travel policy for guests who would like to change or cancel flights to/from Maui. Currently, they are processing changes if your ticket was purchased prior to Aug. 11, 2023, and your plans are between now and Aug. 31.

A fare difference may apply when the waiver is class-to-class restrictive and the original booking class is not maintained in the rebooked itinerary.

Hawaiian Airlines - Travelers can change their plans at no cost for flights to and from OGG between August 9 and December 15. Restrictions apply.

Southwest Airlines- Travelers from or through OGG between Aug. 9 and Sept. 16, 2023, can rebook in the original class of service or travel standby for free; this is as long as the new travel falls within 14 days of their original date of travel between the original city pairs.

American Airlines - can change their flights to, through or from Kahului Airport (OGG) at no cost for tickets bought by Aug. 9 for travel originally scheduled through Sept. 16. New flights must be booked for travel between Aug. 9 and Nov. 18 for the same cabin and origin/destination cities. Alternatively, passengers can cancel their originally scheduled trips and request a refund. This only applies to flight changes made by Sept. 16 for travel completed within one year of the original ticket date.

United - will waive change fees and fare differences for trips originally scheduled into Maui through Sept. 16, 2023. You can then alter your plans to travel by Nov. 18, 2023, at no additional cost to one of these airports:* HNL* KOA* LIH. If your new trip is after Nov. 18, 2023, or is to a different destination, United will still waive any change fees, but you might have to pay a fare difference depending on the flight. Alternatively, if you cancel or don’t take your trip, you can request a full refund.

Delta - Delta has specific requirements for travelers who have flights in or out of OGG. The fare difference will be waived when rebooked travel occurs on or before Sept. 16, 2023, in the same cabin of service as originally booked.

Writer’s BloCk

Thicker than Water - Washington gives readers an intimate view into both her public and private worlds—as a mother, daughter, wife, artist, advocate, and trailblazer. Washington attempts to answer the questions so many have struggled with: Who am I? What is my truest and most authentic self? How do I find a deeper sense of connection and belonging? The actress just announced her book tour that will span the country and moderated by Washington’s celebrity friends.

As the oldest survivor of the Tulsa Race Massacre, Viola Ford Fletcher tells her story in “Don’t Let Them Bury My Story”. The memoir was released on the 102nd anniversary of the massacre, at the time Mrs. Ford-Fletcher was a seven year old girl. “I have lived through the massacre every day. Our country may forget this history, but I cannot.” --Viola Ford Fletcher. It is a powerful, soul stirring read, available now where books are sold.

Heavy Metal

2024 lotus emira

The highly anticipated launch of the 2024 Emira continues to build as we learn more. One of the most intriguing features are the sculpted doors which leads air flow to the intake. Lotus s boasts the feature provides a dual purpose of providing air for as well as cooling the engine. Lotus offers a few options for Emira’s engine turbocharged

and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 360 hp (sourced from Mercedes-AMG), 316 lb-ft; supercharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve. Preorders have begun, pricing starts $77,100.

2026 Fisker Ronin

Fisker recently announced four new models making their debut in 2025. Fisker’s “redefinition of the super car” is the Ronin which will offer three motors and more than 1,000 horsepower, zero to 60 mph in two seconds, four butterfly doors, five seats, and a retracting hardtop in carbon fiber. Ronin’s pricing will start at $385,000. limited production run, Fisker is only set to make 999 units with a price tag of

$385,000 USD each. Fisker set to begin production in second half of 2025.

McLaren is now offering a new paint option to 750S owners called Spectrum. Available in three colorways Spectrum Orange, Spectrum Blue, and Spectrum Gray. The tones of the paint give an ombré impression fading from light to dark with stripes along the sleek frame. Upon request, McLaren will customize other colorways in addition to other features to make your 750S truly one of one.

The first-ever all-electric 2025 ESCALADE IQ, a reimagination of the luxury full-size SUV experience, brimming with iconic design, the highest level of craftsmanship and the latest automotive technology. When it comes to performance, ESCALADE IQ features independent front and rear suspension, with power transferred to 24-inch wheels with 35-inch tires via front and rear drive motors that work in conjunction as an eAWD system. Estimated 450 miles of range, A 24-module Ultium battery serves as the foundation of the ESCALADE IQ, producing more than 200 kWh of available energy. It also employs a flexible, high-voltage architecture that enables 800-volt DC fast charging, the quickest form of charging currently available, providing up to 100 miles of range in 10 minutes of charge time. 0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds, up to 750 horsepower. Pricing starts at around $130,000 including destination charges. Available Late 2024, you can build your vehicle now and sign up for updates via the Cadillac website.

visivo

Basquiat: King Pleasure

The Estate and family of famed artist JeanMichel Basquiat have curated an exhibit experience in Los Angeles featuring over 200 never before seen works. The exhibit named after one of Basquiat’s 1987 paintings has quite the origin story. Gerard Basquiat, Jean-Michel’s father, loved “Moody’s Mood For Love,” sang first in 1952 by bartender turned vocalist King Pleasure. The Grand LA is hosting the exhibit through October 15th, tickets range from $15$65.

De Niro Con: A Look Ahead

During Tribeca 2023 an inaugural event announcement broke. De Niro Con is coming! It a three-day fan event in celebration of Robert De Niro’s 80th birthday. The events will take place at Spring Studios in New York City April 2024. The multi-day fan experience will feature special appearances by De Niro himself, along with recreations of iconic film sets, immersive installations, classic film screenings, musical performances, and panel conversations. It will also include special appearances from co-stars and frequent collaborators. “Bob’s a visionary – he saw the potential for massive resurrection of this part of the city,” said Scorsese. “Tribeca Festival is an indomitable institution and a beacon, and Tribeca itself is the most vibrant, alive location. It’s the place to be and will continue to grow. It’s amazing he did all of this without having the keys un

iConoClasts

Strength, beauty, resiliency, are three things that come to mind when you hear the name Tina Turner. The Rock & Roll icon lost her battle with cancer this summer after a long illness. Tributes poured in worldwide at the news of Turner’s passing. Turner’s life story served as lessons to all about perseverance, determination against all odds. She showed us we are more than our challenging experiences in life. She will be tremendously missed and forever celebrated.

Earlier this summer, we learned of Mr. Belafonte’s passing. He was Civil Rights and Social Justice before there was a name for it. Mr. Belafonte’s contributions to society are immeasurable. Mr. Belafonte will be remembered by some as a musician, actor, speaker, philanthropist - to the African American community he was a hero who stood on the frontline for us no matter the circumstances. Mr. Belafonte’s life and legacy will continue to be celebrated as the work he started continues.

News of The Godfather Mr. Clarence Avant’s passing broke as soon as we were about to publish. We would be remiss if we did not pay a small tribute to him. The world fell in love with Mr. Avant once his documentary was released via Netflix. For those who encountered him before the film, knew him as a no nonsense highly respected and regarded businessman and philanthropist. Mr. Avant’s work propelled black entertainment immeasurably, more than what the film highlighted. His presence commanded respect and reverence from all he encountered. His life and legacy will be celebrated and studied for years to come. Our condolences and prayers to Mr. Avant’s family.