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Fiesta Gala hosted by Casita Maria

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Jacqueline Weld Drake welcomed friends inside the Plaza Hotel for Casita Maria’s annual Fiesta Gala, the best party in New York Tuesday night.  “I am so happy to see familiar faces and also so many new ones so that we can continue to grow and prosper” said Jackie, “But I am here to be brief and grateful. I thank my co-chairs for the evening, HRH Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, George Corton, Darlyn Portes, Sissi Fleitas, Lydia Forbes, Thomas C. Quick, and Jean Shafiroff. And a salute and a thank you, to Felix Urrutia Jr, the new Executive Director of our organization.” 

Atmosphere _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC
Alice Lutz_Credit Jared Siskin/PMC

Dressed to the nines, the black-tie guests danced till near midnight to the music of Bob Hardwick and his orchestra.  The tropical décor was designed by Full Moon.  As has become her tradition, Mary Snow (wearing head-to-toe red lace) hosted the largest table in the room boasting friends including Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Laura and Diego Garcia, Alexandra Lind Rose, Lesley Schulhof, and Marie Louise Slocum.

Ben Wegman and Katie Allsup _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC
Bradley Gibson, Tony Marion, Paul Marlow, Charlie Ward and Adam Jepsen _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC)
Claudia Hilda, Alexandra Seegers and Ben Rodriguez-Cubenas _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC
Angela Chen and Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia _ Credit Patrick McMullan/PMC/PMC
Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Sharon Bush and Robert Murray _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC

Adding gravitas to the evening Felix Urrutia Jr explained “The neighborhood we serve – the South Bronx – depends on us. On a daily basis we are dealing with the families that are anxious, combative, and stressed, but they are also hopeful and resilient. The help they get from organizations like Casita Maria is critical – some attention and some affirmation, not a great deal, bus some love. With your support, Casita Maria can fulfill our promise to remain responsible stewards.”

Grammy Winning Producer Nelson J. Albareda, former U.S. Ambassador to Morocco David Fischer with wife philanthropist Jennifer Fischer, and SOMOS Community Care Founder Dr. Ramon Tallaj were honored. Jennifer Fischer from the stage shared, “David and I have spent our lives believing that children’s future is the future of all of us. Whether it’s a job or self-esteem, or someone believing in you, or in our class that gives you a moment’s respite. Casita Maria lives with this dream to the max. We’re incredibly honored to receive this.” Nelson J. Albareda said “I’m honored to be here tonight, sharing this beautiful evening with all of you, in celebration of an organization that I think is not only groundbreaking, but breaking ground for many, many years in the Latino community. This organization creates a safe environment that empowers our community. It’s not every day a Cuban American boy from Miami makes it to New York City to be honored so I share this with all Latinos.”Guests included Board Members and Trustees Martha Bograd, Miguel A. Fuentes Jr., Michéle Gerber Klein, Patrick Moran, Gautam Patel, Benigno Rodriguez-Cubeñas, as well as Peter Bacanovic, Edgar Batista, Tina Beriro, Estrellita & Daniel Brodsky, Sharon Bush, Carlos Campos, Lee Fryd, Bradley Gibson, Margo Langenberg, Alicia Lubowski-Jahn, Tony Marion, Juan Montoya, Darlyn Portes, Marc Rosen, Gabriel Rivera-Barraza,Victor Roquette, Alexandra Seegers, Kenny Thomas, Barbara Tober, and Charlie Ward.

Casita Maria creates a safe and welcoming community, enriching and uplifting youth and families towards success, through shared cultural, art and educational experiences and programs. Headquartered in the South Bronx, Casita Maria was established in 1934 by Claire and Elizabeth Sullivan as the first charitable organization to serve Latinos in New York City. Operating from a five-room tenement apartment in East Harlem, the Sullivan sisters, public school teachers who were also relatives of TV personality Ed Sullivan, had a primary mission to offer after school enrichment and recreational activities for the children of newly arrived families from Puerto Rico. Today, Casita Maria remains dedicated to its original mission, delivering services to the mostly Latino youth, and families of the Hunts Point community it serves in the Bronx. In 2009, Casita Maria inaugurated a state-of-the-art facility encompassing performance spaces, exhibition gallery, dance, and music studios, and more on its Simpson Street campus. This 90,000 square foot, six-story educational and cultural facility in collaboration with the Department of Education has enabled Casita Maria to expand its scope and capacities as a beacon of excellence.


Carnegie Hall Opening Night Gala – Attendees Include: Ronan Farrow, Zac Posen, Liev Schreiber and Elizabeth Segerstrom

Carnegie Hall hosted a gala to celebrate the opening of the new season to come! Whoever bought a ticket could attend. This year, Patricia Clarkson, Ronan Farrow, Zac Posen, Liev Schreiber, and Elizabeth Segerstrom joined Carnegie Hall in celebration!

Atmosphere _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC
Elizabeth Segerstrom and Galina Novikova _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC)

Visceral excitement and pure, richly textured musicality come together in this opening night program that features the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, conductor Riccardo Muti, and violin superstar Leonidas Kavakos. She performed Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto on a program that also included Mussorgsky’s Pictures from an Exhibition, a work that Muti conducted at the Ravinia Festival in his 1973 CSO podium debut. 

NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 4: Clive Gillinson attends Elizabeth Segerstrom Attends Carnegie Hall Opening Night at Carnegie Hall & Cipriani 42nd Street on October 4, 2023 in New York_Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC

Mercedes T. Bass and Hope and Robert F. Smith were the Gala Lead Chairmen for the evening. A black-tie dinner at Cipriani 42nd Street followed with guests including Harrison Ball, Gina Gershon, Susan Jaffe, Beejan Land, Serena and Shawn Levy, Zoe Lister-Jones, Taylor Neisen, Galina Novikova, Tatiana and Alexei Ratmansky, Deborah Rutter, Sophie Sumner, and Jessica Vosk.

Susan Jaffe and Christopher Minev _ Credit Jared Siskin/PMC/PMC) *

Carlton Fine Arts Presents Bonnie Lautenberg’s ARTISTICA! Where Hollywood Meets Art History

Carlton Fine Arts is pleased to announce ARTISTICA! Where Hollywood Meets Art Historyan exhibition featuring artworks by Bonnie Lautenberg that pay homage to the most iconic artists and cinematic moments in history. The exhibition will be on view from October 12th  through November 11th  at Carlton Fine Arts Ltd. located at 543 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022.

Our gallery director Charles Saffati and his associate Claude Pardo will host an artist reception on October 11th at their Fifth Avenue location (689 5th Avenue) to celebrate the new exhibition.

Bonnie Lautenberg’s ARTISTICA! Where Hollywood Meets Art History features over 85 works created over the span of five years, connecting key art pieces to classic films made in the same year. Bonnie explores how both art forms influence one another.

Select pieces from this exhibition was shown at the Boca Raton Museum of Art in 2022 and at the Jewish Museum of Florida in Miami Beach.

In 1993, Bonnie Lautenberg fell in love with photography as she captured the historic signing of the Israeli-Palestinian Peace Accord. This photograph, along with countless other political photographs from Lautenberg, has been exhibited widely exhibited over the years. She is currently working on a book of her 25 years of political photography.

Mrs. Lautenberg has successfully sold and exhibited her photography for a number of years and has received critical praise throughout her career. Her photographs, with subjects from presidents to rock stars, are included in both private and museum collections, and she has exhibited internationally.

An esteemed philanthropist, Mrs. Lautenberg has been recognized by numerous nonprofits for her meaningful contributions. Earlier this year, she was honored by the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation. In March, she launched a national fundraising effort to end gun violence with former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, which was marked with a piece titled “Guns Kill,” displayed in her Lady Liberty retrospective at the Jewish Museum of Florida. 

ARTISTICA! will be on display with all works available for purchase at Carlton Fine Arts Ltd. 543 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022 location.

Exhibition hours are Mondays – Thursdays: 10 AM – 6 PM; Fridays: 10 AM – 4 PM; Saturdays: Closed; Sundays: 11 AM – 6 PM and by appointment. For more information, visit hcp://carltonfa.com/.

FASHION 4 DEVELOPMENT HOSTED 11th ANNUAL FIRST LADIES LUNCHEON

New York, NY (September 21, 2023) – Fashion 4 Development (F4D) hosted its 11th Annual First Ladies Luncheon on Tuesday, September 19th during the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.  Evie Evangelou, F4D President and Founder co-hosted with Princess Corinna zu Sayn-Wittgenstein, who was announced as F4D’s Goodwill Ambassador for Music. This year’s luncheon honored the late Queen Elizabeth II in partnership with the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust. The annual luncheon is an opportunity for First Ladies and Royals from around the globe, as well as diplomats, philanthropists, fashion VIPs, and other key influencers to celebrate the unprecedented cooperation between diplomacy and fashion.

The First Ladies Luncheon began with green carpet arrivals and a cocktail reception where guests had a chance to network and mingle. Exhibitions from couture fashion designer Stewart Parvin and milliner Rachel Trevor-Morgan created exclusively as a tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II were showcased during the reception. Parvin worked with the Queen for 20 years and his designs adorning the room were inspired by what she would have worn during her reign. Recipient of this year’s 2023 Franca Sozzani Award, Thebe Magugu, also showcased his latest designs.

Over 32 first ladies were in attendance including First Lady of Paraguay, First Lady of Serbia, First Lady of Albania, Princess of Eswatini, First Lady of Ecuador, First Lady of Malta, First Lady of Cabo Verde, First Lady of Israel, First Lady of Colombia and more.  Additional notable attendees and honorees included Fern Mallis, Flaviana Matata, June Ambrose, Chaz Dean, Julia Haart, Preeta Sinha, Jennifer Hanks Allaire, Dr. Inez Hernandez, Aneeta Williams, Bonnie Lautenberg, Monica Elias, Sergio Nicolosi, Amy Shiels, Laine Siklos, Janna Bullock and Sofie Mahlkvist.  

When everyone was seated, Evangelou welcomed all guests and introduced the Commonwealth Fashion Exchange Video showcasing an initiative that launched in Buckingham Palace and then graced the F4D Global Runway in  New York City.

Following this, Evangelou introduced Queen’s Commonwealth Trust representative and young entrepreneur from Zambia Alina Karimamussama to speak about her experience advocating for the global work of F4D and honoring the global initiatives of the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust.  “I’m here alone on this stage, but when you see me, I want you to see all the communities that are represented by the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust,” Karimamussama said to the crowd. “I want you to see the thousands of women in Zambia who do not have the comforts or luxuries to be on the stage with me today.” The Queen’s Tribute also spotlighted special guests Freddie Toye of Toye, Kenning and Spencer and Kate McGuire, British refashion designer who has dressed Sarah Jessica Parker on Sex in the City. Onstage they presented the Royal Silk Robe and Gown. The gown was made from recycled fabrics from fast fashion lines and was presented to guests at the Met Gala this past spring. “I wanted to prove a point,” McGuire explained.  “We wanted to show people it’s possible to make couture out of old clothes, even fast fashion…We are calling her “Elizabeth” and every year from now on, she will attend Fashion 4 Development’s First Ladies Luncheon and illustrate the different potentials of upcycling.”

Internationally renowned Chef Anton Mosimann, OBE, of Mosimann’s private members’ club in London, known for his exceptional Cuisine Naturelle attended via video from London. Having cooked for four generations at the Royal House, guests were treated to his signature dessert, Bread and Butter pudding, one of the Queen’s favorites and a special Queen’s tribute menu was served to guests. The tables featured couture hat centerpieces by Suzanne Couture Millinery and a coffee table book of famed photographer Enzo Barracco, and as a special treat, guests were provided with the recipes for the desserts served that afternoon.

The annual luncheon is also dedicated to honoring those who celebrate the unprecedented cooperation between diplomacy and fashion around the world. Honorees included 2023 Franca Sozzani Award winner, Johannesburg-based designer Thebe Magugu. Sara Sozzani Maino introduced Magugu, honoring him for preserving his South African heritage through fashion and design. He stated, “When I started my brand in 2016, its mission was to act like an encyclopedia or a reference book of key ideas, people, cultures that run the risk of being forgotten. I’m a firm advocate in transcribing culture for modern generations, otherwise, those histories or ideas, will meet a dead end. I think that’s what makes fashion so incredibly important. It can inspire. It can inform. It can transform.”

Halfway through the luncheon, Emanne Beasha, a finalist on season 14 of America’s Got Talent came on stage to perform one of her signature songs,” Quello Che Faro.” She was introduced by Princess Corinna, saying “Music, as we all know, is a universal language that transcends all frontiers. It has the power to uplift spirits, connect us across cultures, and inspire positive change.”

Assembly member Rebecca Seawright introduced philanthropist Jean Shafiroff and presented her with the 2023 Philanthropy Award. “We must work together,” Shafiroff said. “Not just in our countries, not just locally, but globally, because sustainability is a global issue. It’s important for all of us to be involved.” She continued, “We want future generations to have the opportunity to live in a good world, it’s our obligation to work on a sustainable future by creating long and short-term goals, incentives and rewards, and a sense of team work together, this is all achievable and doable.”


Stefano Curti welcomed Carolin Westermann to the stage to accept the 2023 F4D Award on behalf of CEO of Hugo Boss, Daniel Grieder. Virtually, Grieder addressed the guests, stating “I believe that it is our responsibility as an industry to take care of our planet, the people that live in it and our environment. If current global trends continue without change, there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. So, we must be bold for our planet because, as I like to say, no planet, no fashion.”


Evangelou and Stephanie Dillon also presented the launch of “Global Runway”, a book they are co-authoring of storytelling, art and photography that will showcase fashion designers from 193 countries, whom are part of the UN helping to promote international cooperation and understanding. Guests went home with a physical copy of the first chapter, which spotlights Magugu. “Thebe, for me, is our poster designer. He is what epitomizes what we would like designers to be for the new way of moving forward in the fashion industry,” Evangelou said. In addition, “Global Runway” will premiere a fashion runway show at the United Nations in 2024.

Following the global runway video, guests enjoyed a live fashion show paying homage to the past and future of F4D. “Inspirations of the Ottoman Empire” by designer Mirela Nurce of Tonni86 Couture.

Speakers throughout the afternoon included remarks by Naila Chowdhury, the Director of Social Impact and Innovation at UC San Diego, who was just announced as F4D’s Goodwill Ambassador. As an advocate for human rights, she said, “We are at the critical juncture where climate, sustainability, gender equity, human rights, dignity, and zero tolerance of any form of violence has become imperative to address.”


To conclude, Stephanie Potter presented President of S&P Global Market Intelligence Martina Cheung with the 2023 Women’s Empowerment Award for her work with improving pay transparency and female empowerment. “Increasing female labor force participation and getting more women into gender equity roles, increased pay transparency, all of this contributes, and can contribute, trillions of dollars to economic growth over the next decade,” said Cheung.
An exclusive t-shirt collaboration designed by renowned artist Stephanie Dillion and fashion industry veteran, Aslaug Magnusdottir, Founder of Katla, officially launched at the luncheon to help support F4D’s mission. The t-shirt serves as a visual representation of the strength that arises when artists and advocates unite for a common cause. T-shirts can be purchased at www. Katla.com.


F4D Awards created exclusively by Toye, Kenning & Spencer, founded in 1685 and with a Royal Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Toye, Kenning & Spencer is the leading and most diversified craft skills employer in the United Kingdom. To learn more about F4D, please visit: http://www.fashion4development.com

About Fashion 4 Development


Fashion 4 Development (F4D) is a private sector global platform founded by Evie Evangelou in January 2011 in cooperation with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon to support the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and “Every Woman, Every Child”. F4D builds upon the core leadership principles of the 4E’s: Educate, Empower, Enhance, and Enrich, and activates partnerships that promote the Fashion, Beauty and Lifestyle Industries, advance economic and social development activities, preserve culture and empower women. In 2015 F4D committed to support the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and place a significant focus on sustainable lifestyle practices for a healthier world. Fashion 4 Development’s tagline – “Giving Back is the New Luxury” – and its message to promote positive social change are being received with open arms around the world, with initiatives in over 20 countries.

“Day of the Dead LIVE!” Preview at Brooklyn Art Haus

The preview of “Day of the Dead LIVE!” in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, was a fantastic and unique experience. This musical, is directed Juanita Cardenas and features the talented pianist Llewellyn Sánchez-Werner, combines diabolical music from European and Mexican classical and popular composers with life-sized puppets and circus performers, all themed around the Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos. The presence of Consulate General of Mexico in New York, Jorge Islas López, celebrating his birthday with the cast, added to the special occasion.

Performers at “Day of the Dead Live” at Brooklyn Art Haus in Brooklyn, NY on September 28th, 2023.

The post-performance party brought together a diverse group of attendees, including Barbara Tober, Yanna Avis, Jacqueline Weld Drake, Sharon King Hoge, Sophie Aliece Hollis, and many others. The music selection, including pieces like Saint-Saëns’s Danse Macabre, Liszt’s Dante Sonata, and popular songs by Mexican composers Rubio and Velázquez, along with Bernstein’s Mambo, created a lively and engaging atmosphere.

Llewellyn Snachez- Werner and Martha Werner attend “Day of the Dead Live” at Brooklyn Art Haus in Brooklyn, NY on September 28th, 2023.
Jackie Weld and Alicia Lubowski-Jahn attend “Day of the Dead Live” at Brooklyn Art Haus in Brooklyn, NY on September 28th, 2023.
Bradley Strauchen-Scherer, Pamela Taylor, Barbara Tober and Eames Yates attend “Day of the Dead Live” at Brooklyn Art Haus in Brooklyn, NY on September 28th, 2023.
Guests attend “Day of the Dead Live” at Brooklyn Art Haus in Brooklyn, NY on September 28th, 2023.

The show reaches many generations with its playful and animated elements, paying homage to Mexican icons like Pancho Villa, Zapata, Frida Kahlo, and Diego Rivera. “Day of the Dead LIVE!” is set to run at Brooklyn Art Haus from October 18th through November 1st, including performances on Halloween and the Day of the Dead. Tickets are reasonably priced at $25 and can be purchased on the website www.BKArtHaus.com.

Barbara Tober attends “Day of the Dead Live” at Brooklyn Art Haus in Brooklyn, NY on September 28th, 2023.

NYC Second Chance Rescue Benefit “Pawparazzi”

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The 2nd Annual Hamptons benefit, titled “Pawparazzi,” was organized by NYC Second Chance Rescue. Presented by Margit Brandt Palm Beach & London Jewelers, the event took place at The Baker House 1650 in East Hampton. The occasion celebrated the outstanding animal advocacy efforts of Candy Udell & Zach Erdem and was warmly hosted by Brandon Colón.

Atmosphere _ Credit Lisa Tamburini

The benefit included an impersonator concert for charity featuring Athena Riech as Lady Gaga to help raise funds for dogs and cats in need. Guests continue to dance the evening away with music by DJ DIMATTEO.

Athena Reich _ Credit Rob Rich

Notable Attendees included: Margit Brandt, Blair Brandt, Joe Gatto, Bessy Gatto, Dylan Lauren, Melissa Gorga, Joe Gorga, Ramona Singer, Jennifer Parker, Elizabeth Bowden, Kingsley Crawford, Candy Udell, Zach Erdem, Leesa Rowland, Larry Wohl, Alie Mitchell, Fern Mallis, Ian Duke, Chloe Malas, Soren White, Brandon Colón, Avra Hart, Athena Reich (“Lady Gaga”).

Dylan Lauren _ Credit LIsa Tamburini
Leesa Rowland _ Credit Lisa Tamburini
Ian Duke, Chloe Malas and Norah Lawlor _ Credit Lisa Tamburini

The organization extends a huge thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: Margit Brandt Palm Beach & London Jewelers. AV Sponsor: Margit Brandt Palm Beach. Table Sponsors for the event included Animal Ashram, Signature Premier Properties, and NestSeekers International. Special thanks to Hamptons Hospitality, Ambient Events & MHz Media Group. 

Atmosphere _ Credit Kristin Gray

About NYC Second Chance Rescue

NYC Second Chance Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 2009. With the generous contributions of their dedicated community of donors and supporters, they have successfully saved over 14,000 lives from an unimaginable fate. The primary focus of NYC Second Chance Rescue is on large breed dogs and animals in need of critical, life-saving care, as these two categories represent the majority of euthanasias in the United States. Nine out of ten animals that enter NYC Second Chance Rescue were initially slated for euthanasia at municipal shelters. Through their foster care system and brick-and-mortar shelter, they provide comprehensive medical care and a nurturing, secure sanctuary for all pets.

Atmosphere pc Lisa Tamburini

To adopt, foster, donate or volunteer visit www.nycsecondchancerescue.org. save lives and join our team!

I: @nycscr | F: SecondChanceRescueNycDogs | X / T: @nycscr

The Annual “Hamptons Concours” Celebrates Ferrari along with the 75th Anniversary of Porsche Produced by RAND Luxury

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Bradford Rand and his team, alongside Andrew Levitt, at the prestigious RAND Luxury events firm, orchestrated a private charity brunch and concours in partnership with notable names like Ferrari of Long Island, Manhattan Motorcars, Morgan Stanley, Rémy Martin / Louis XIII, and others. The exclusive, invitation-only concours was completely sold out ahead of time and took place at Kenneth & Maria Fishel’s Bridgehampton estate.

The Event benefitted The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), which is dedicated to finding cures for cancer, and the Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation (SASF).

The yearly occasion displayed one of the most extensive assemblies of remarkable, sought-after classic and modern Ferrari Motorcars ever witnessed in the Hamptons. The assortment of vehicles on display was approximated to be worth over $100 million. A panel of automobile enthusiasts and renowned figures in the industry evaluated close to 80 meticulously crafted Italian works of art in the concours, overseen by Chief Judge Glenn Simon. Furthermore, The Hamptons Concours presented fresh automobiles from prestigious luxury manufacturers such as Aston Martin, McLaren, Porsche, Lamborghini, and Bentley.

The invited guests were greeted with “Telemont” champagne courtesy of Rémy Martin and hand-rolled cigars from Cohiba. French Baharani luxury brand Qannati had on display pieces valued from $85,000 – $195,000. The brand is known for their wearable jewelry objet d’art.

Masmood Qannati and Thierry Chaumu _Credit Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com ©2023

Notable Attendees included: Bradford Rand, Ken Fishel, Maria Fishel, Georgina Bloomberg, Victor Green, Bradley Fishel, Alexandra Fishel, Brian Miller, Stu Fields, Tom Yang, Steven Morea, John Aalto, Ryan Friedman, Tracy Turco, Peter Cook, Diana Cochran, Jennifer Allsopp, Soren White, Fabio Granato, Consuelo Vanderbilt-Costin, Cagri Kanver.

Cornelia Vanderbilt and Susan Shin _Credit Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com ©2023
Julie Romo Auclair, Ken Fishel, Maria Fishel, Bradley Fishel and Alexandra Fishel _ Credit Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com ©2023
Jerry Turco and Tracy Turco _ Credit Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com ©2023
Mike Endico, Bill Endico and Fabio Granato _ Credit Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com ©2023

Details of the winners of the 2023 Hamptons Concours can be found on www.randluxury.com

The event sponsors included: Ferrari of Long Island, Remy Martin Louis XIII, Morgan Stanley, Apollo Jets, Aston Martin Long Island, Ferrari Club of America Empire State Region, Manhattan Motorcars, BeauGeste Luxury Brands, Briston, Classic Automotive Relocation Services, Rally Point east, Cohiba, The Baker House 1650, OPTYX, The Glenrothes, DeLonghi, Garia, Hiatus Tequila, Sports Car Market, Long Island Sports Cars, Lux Contemporary, Lyrical Asset Management, McLaren Long Island, Nero, One Roq Vodka, Pantera Owners Club of America, PCar Market, Qannati, Quintessentially, XO, Ryan Friedman Motor Cars, Swoon, Champagne Telmont, Palm Bay International, Taub Family Selections, The Botanist Islay Dry Gin, Total Marine, 1738 Accord Royal, Vantage Auto The Reserve, Cyberisk Alliance, Putnam Leasing, Grandstand Sports Memorabilia, Boxed Water.

For a full list of sponsors, please visit: https://bit.ly/3DOxY3R

About RAND Luxury

RAND Luxury produces a series of Press, Media & Affluent Consumer Charity events that showcase fine cars, jewelry, electronics, private jet co’s, watches, wine, travel, artwork & more in New York City, during The Sundance Film Festival, The Tribeca Film Festival and in the Hamptons.  The company’s team has produced over 2,500 events since 1993 including Job Expo, TECHEXPO, The Cyber Security Summit, The Luxury Technology Show, Go Green Expo, Investment Expo, The “Luxury Escape” Lounge during Sundance Film Festival, The Tribeca Film Festival and the Hamptons Luxury Brunch Series. RAND Luxury has also produced numerous automotive launch unveilings for Lamborghini, Bugatti, Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Maserati & McLaren!

French Heritage Society Hamptons Soirée

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The inaugural Summer Soirée hosted by the French Heritage Society (FHS) on Friday, July 28th, 2023, was a delightful event held at the residence of Maria and Kenneth Fishel in Bridgehampton, NY. The occasion was a cocktail party set around the pool area and under an elegant tent on the Fishel property. The stunning artwork on display at the event was provided by Christofle.

The French Heritage Society is known for its dedication to preserving and promoting French cultural heritage both in France and the United States. The Summer Soirée served as a gathering for like-minded individuals who appreciate and support the preservation of French art, culture, and architecture.

Guests enjoyed cocktails, conversations, and the picturesque surroundings of the Fishel residence -the location and the elegant ambiance made the event a memorable evening for all attendees.

The unforgettable soirée was held at the behest of Host Committee CeCe Black, Maria Fishel, French Heritage Society Board Chairman Elizabeth F. Stribling, and Ann Van Ness, andin the presence of Cultural Counselor of the French Embassy in the United States Gaëtan Bruel. Golden Benefactor supporters included Patricia Cossutta Arostegui and Egle Rincon, Sharon Bush and Bob Murray, Melody Clarke, Alina and Rich Dovere, Mitchell Draizin, Rosann Gutman, Brenda Howard, Helen K. King, Bonnie Comley and Stewart F. Lane, Judy McLaren, Frank Morgan and Brent Feigenbaum, Maria Pessino, Nicole Salmasi, Odile de Schiétère-Longchampt, Maria Pessino, Jean and Martin Shafiroff, Lauren and Geoff Smart, and Tom Brown and Missy Van Buren-Brown. Young Patron Benefactors included Elena Ayot, Stark D. Kirby, Jr. and Collin Kearby, and Julissa Perez. Generous support for the evening was also given by Nanci and Nick Lanni.

Alexandra Fishel, Julie Auclair, Bradley Fishel, Sylvia Hemingway and Alexandra Nicklas _ Credit ANNE WATT AGENCY
Geoff Smart, Lauren Smart and Peter Gerry_Credit ANNE WATT AGENCY

Esteemed guests included: Jacques Acoca, Julie Auclair, Richard Anderman, Chris Arlotta, Susan and Gerald Baker, Carol Beladora, Connie Bregman, Geoffrey Bradfield and William Feathersby, Rosalie Brinton, Philippe Brugere-Trelat, Rufus Chen and Blake Funston, Melody Clarke, Paul Danello and Virginia Loving Pope, Michael Dorenfeld, Vincent Festa, Celso Gonzalez Falla, Bradley and Alexandra Fishel, Lauren Willis Grover and Colin Grover, David Hayes, Sylvia Hemingway, French Heritage Society Executive Director Jennifer Herlein, Amy Hoadley, David Hochberg, Paula Hunnicut, Martha and Lawrence Johnston, Cheri Kaufman and Bill Slight, Susan Kremer, William Luby, Ruth Miller, Mar and William Morosse, Alexandra Nicklas, Mario Pecoraro, Abigail Pollak, Kathy Prounis, Lauren and Bob Roberts, Guy N. Robinson, Patricia and Thomas Shiah, Ramona Singer, Paula and Robert Smalley, Elizabeth Steimberg, Bill Van Ness, Andrea and Joel Wernick, and Andrew Werner.

Amanda Fischman and Ari Fischman_ Credit ANNE WATT AGENCY
Alexandra Fishel, Julie Auclair, Bradley Fishel, Sylvia Hemingway and Alexandra Nicklas_Credit ANNE WATT AGENCY
William Morosse, Paula Hunnicut, Bill Hunnicut, Carole Belidora Westfall, Mar Morosse, Lee Fryd, David M. Hayes, Judy McLaren _ Credit ANNE WATT AGENCY

Remarks were made during the event by individuals including Maria Fishel, Elizabeth F. Stribling, Ann Van Ness, and Gaëtan Bruel. The main focus of their remarks was on highlighting the significant role played by FHS (presumably an organization or institution) in safeguarding French architectural and cultural heritage.

Gaëtan Bruel, in particular, referred to the organization as the “American Friends of France,” indicating that it supports various projects not only in France but also in the United States. This suggests that the organization has a transatlantic approach to its efforts in preserving and promoting French cultural and architectural treasures.

Gaëtan Bruel _ Credit ANNIE WATT AGENCY

The Summer Soirée is an event that aims to provide crucial support for FHS’s. Their primary goal is to ensure the preservation and protection of the shared French architectural and cultural heritage, so that these treasures can continue to inspire and be appreciated by future generations.

The event serves as a fundraising platform, and the proceeds generated from the Summer Soirée are used to support various initiatives and projects related to the preservation of French heritage. This financial support is essential for carrying out preservation efforts, restoration projects, educational programs, and other activities that contribute to safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage.

In addition to supporting the organization’s broader mission, specific funds raised during the Summer Soirée were designated for a particular project: the restoration grant to the Grand Palais in Paris. The Grand Palais is an iconic historical monument in Paris and has been chosen to host fencing and taekwondo events during the 2024 Olympics.

The funds raised for the Grand Palais restoration grant will be used to finance necessary renovations, repairs, and conservation efforts to ensure that the venue is in top condition for hosting Olympic events. This is a significant contribution as it not only aids in preserving a historical landmark but also helps to enhance its functionality for a prestigious international sporting event like the Olympics.

Overall, the combination of funds raised from the Summer Soirée provides vital support to FHS’s mission in preserving French architectural and cultural heritage, as well as making a direct impact on the restoration and enhancement of a significant historical venue like the Grand Palais.

The 5th Edition of The Westhampton Beach Project Enchants Audiences with the Mesmerizing Performances of Parsons Dance Co. and the Artistry of Chris Ruggiero

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The Westhampton Beach Project, a two-day event, was held at the Great Lawn on Main Street in Westhampton Beach, NY, July 28 and 29 . It featured performances by the renowned Parsons Dance Company and celebrated singer Chris Ruggiero, was a treat for attendees! Pairing these incredible performances with delicious bites and drinks from local Long Island restaurants surely added to the enjoyment of the evenings.

Chris Ruggiero/Photo By: Rob Klein

The event was free and open to the public. However, guests were given the opportunity to receive VIP lawn seats and other perks with a charitable donation, which tangibly supports the Musical Mime Company, INC. This not-for-profit organization’s dedication to assembling artists and collecting information on corporal movement and art in general is a noble effort in promoting creativity and artistic expression.

The Westhampton Beach Project is an initiative conceptualized by Steven Colucci, a local Westhampton resident, artist, and President of the Musical Mime Theater. With over 45 years of experience in the arts, Colucci decided to dedicate himself to this project with the aim of exposing the younger generation to various art forms he has studied and worked on throughout his career.

The project involved organizing a two-night event in Westhampton Beach to showcase different art forms for the community and the guests. The event included performances from the Musical Mime Theater, where Colucci serves as President, to entertain and educate the audience about this unique form of theatrical expression.

Additionally, during the event, guests were given the opportunity to view and purchase Colucci’s paintings. The proceeds from the sales of his artworks would have been channeled back into supporting the Westhampton Beach Project. This kind of fundraising approach would help the initiative continue its mission and potentially expand its reach in the community.

Overall, the Westhampton Beach Project was noble endeavor, bridging the gap between different generations and promoting artistic expressions while supporting a local artist’s work and the arts in general within the Westhampton community. Events like this not only bring joy and entertainment to the community but also foster support for important causes and organizations. Kudos to The Westhampton Beach Project for organizing such a fantastic event with a charitable purpose!

The Westhampton Beach Project is funded by Steven Colucci and Colucci Musical Mime Theater and the Lanza Family Foundation.

Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) Hamptons Soiree

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Near the ocean, amid the dunes of Amagansett, Elizabeth Jacoby and Richard Brand opened their home to ballet fans to meet ABT soloist Chloe Misseldine and Ukrainian dancer Vsevolod Mayevsky. The occasion was a friend raiser for Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP). The tall dancers (she is the tallest and among the most stunning at ABT) spoke of how important YAGP was to their careers and the opportunities the organization makes for dancers worldwide.  Both are YAGP Alumni.  Vsevolod, formerly with Russia’s Mariinsky Ballet, was able to leave the country at the beginning of the war with help from YAGP’s founder Larissa Saveliev.

Vsevolod Mayevsky and Chloe Misseldine _ Credit Richard Lewin

Guests included, Carrie Barrett, Bonnie Comley and Stewart F. Lane, Renee Cox, Kimberly Goff, Michele Gerber Klein, Tinu Naija,  Emily Reifel, and Alexis Tobin.

Youth America Grand Prix is the largest global network of dance. YAGP fulfills its mission of dance education through scholarship auditions, master classes, alumni services, performances, and education. For the past 24 years, over $4.5 million has been awarded in scholarships to the world’s leading dance schools, with up to $500,000 now awarded annually. Since YAGP’s founding in 1999, over 200,000 young dancers – ages 9 to 19 – of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds have participated in YAGP’s international workshops, audition classes, and dance awareness events. Today, more than 12,000 young dancers audition annually. More than 450 Youth America Grand Prix alumni are now dancing with 80 professional companies around the world, including American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Boston Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet, Paris Opera Ballet, The Royal Ballet (UK), Mariinsky Ballet and many others. Over 100 of these alumni are soloists and principal dancers.