Sharon Hite and her husband Larry Hite graciously hosted a chamber concert featuring Young Concert Artists (YCA) musicians Risa Hokamura on the violin and Hanzhi Wang on the accordion. YCA President Daniel Kellogg extended warm appreciation to the generous hosts, introducing both the artists and the program that showcased pieces by Bach, Paganini, and Saint-Saëns. Following the performance, Kellogg engaged the artists in insightful discussions about their careers, posing thought-provoking questions.
The evening was in conjunction with The Little Orchestra Society (LOS), where Sharon is Board President.
The Little Orchestra Society (L.O.S.) is celebrating its 76th Anniversary season as both a community music education organization and a premier performing arts ensemble for all children and families across the greater New York City area. We empower young people by engaging them with music composition and we celebrate their creativity along a continuum of programming. Core offerings are found in public elementary school classrooms, and L.O.S. connects this learning with live performances by professional musicians in the concert hall and in community spaces. All of these innovative programs inspire a new generation of children with the power of musical expression.
YCA’s artists are the leaders of the future – stars who combine world-class talent with creative vision to bring new reach and relevance to the art form. For more than 60 years YCA has invested in extraordinary young musicians, providing them with the support, clarity, and confidence to tell their stories, as well as with the tools, opportunities, and infrastructure to take their careers to the highest level. With a legacy of artistic excellence recognized around the world, YCA alumni include such luminaries as Emanuel Ax, Julia Bullock, Jeremy Denk, Ray Chen, Anne-Marie McDermott, Fazıl Say, Andrew Norman, Dawn Upshaw, Mason Bates, Jean-Yves Thibaudet, Kevin Puts, Pinchas Zukerman, and many more.
Guests included LOS Artistic Advisor David Allen Miller and Executive Director Anthony Ball, Board Members Eileen K. Cutler, Garrett T. Desman, Karen S.W. Friedman, Joan Rudel Weinreich, and Christine Wheeler, YCA Board Member Marlene Herring, as well as Yanna Avis, Britt Asher, Nora Coblence, Anne Dexter Jones, Robin Dolch, Julie Flanagan, Lola Abigail Koch, Helen Little, Gary Padmore, Liane Pei, and Carol Schaefer.
Carol Schaefer, Chuck Schaefer, Barb Mandler, and Milt-Rubin
Anthony Ball, Christine Wheeler, Garrett Desman and Lawrence Hite
Gary Padmore and Sarah Graham
Robin Dolch, Adrian
Dannett and Sonia Grimeva
Ryan Asher, Britt Asher, Carol Schaefer, and Dr. Benjamin Paul
(New York, NY – November 21, 2023) – Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF), the leading non-profit dedicated solely to advanced depression research, held its 17th annual HOPE luncheon seminar at The Plaza Hotel on the topic of psychological resilience, featuring top medical experts and actor Dakota Johnson as the celebrity honoree.
The event, entitled “Resilience: Emerging Stronger from Life’s Greatest Challenges,” drew more than 300 attendees and raised over $700,000 for life-saving mental health research.
Atmosphere_Credit Dan Bassini
The day included a major announcement of new discoveries by HDRF’s acclaimed Depression Task Force, a collaboration of top neuroscientists who are pooling expertise and data to find urgently needed new treatments and diagnostics for depression.
The event also featured a heartfelt award ceremony, where acclaimed actress and producer Dakota Johnson accepted the2023 HOPE Award for Depression Advocacy. Other awardees were Sage Therapeutics, which received the HOPE Corporate Visionary Award; and Michael Dudgeon, who received the HOPE Community Award for his commitment to funding advanced depression research.
Among the guests were Brooke Shields, a former HOPE Award recipient (2009), and her daughter Grier Henchy, who as a Teen Race of Hope Ambassador is continuing in her mother’s advocacy footsteps.
Master of Ceremonies, Chuck Scarborough began by welcoming guests and then introduced keynote speaker, Dr. Dennis Charney, Dean of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and President for Academic Affairs for the Mount Sinai Health System.
Dr. Dennis Charney has made significant contributions to the understanding of human anxiety and depression, and is the author of Resilience: The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges with Steven Southwick and Jonathan DePierro.
Dr. Dennis Charney_Credit Sean Zanni:PMC
The book is based on extensive research with trauma survivors, such as prisoners of war who were subject to torture in Vietnam. In his remarks, Charney shared ways to build resilience which he covers in the book, including: developing optimism, finding a supportive network, embracing a moral compass, creating positive statements about oneself, and attending to physical well-being.
In addition, Dr. Charney shared his own personal story when he had to put resilience factors to the test after being shot by a former faculty member at Mount Sinai. He spent weeks recovering in the I.C.U.
“Realistic optimism is key – you need to know what you are facing and not be Pollyanna about it,” he said. “But also have faith that you will prevail.”
He added, “It’s important to accept what happened without blaming yourself, and then work to get stronger.”
Charney added that finding inspiration in music was critical for him. He listened almost non-stop to Bruce Springsteen’s “Stronger than the Rest.”
In conclusion, Charney touched on the resilience of New York City to bounce back after the 9/11 attack and Hurricane Sandy. He said he believes New York is a resilient city because of its immigrant population and heritage of survival and grit.
Another guest featured in the program was Dr. Kafui Dzirasa, Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University and a member of HDRF’s Depression Task Force. Dzirasa gave brief remarks on how the study of depression can specifically benefit from machine learning techniques.
“The brain has over 200 billion cells and by understanding their electrical patterns, we can find new diagnostics and treatments for mental illness,” he said. “Artificial intelligence allows us analyze billions of electrical signals at once and find coherent patterns.”
HDRF Founder and Chair Audrey Gruss took the stage to speak about the exciting progress of the acclaimed HDRF Depression Task Force.
“When I formed HDRF, my vision was to create a think tank to defeat depression, where some of the greatest neuroscientists on the planet could collaborate in a way that breaks the traditional mold of academic research,” Gruss said. “The field was stuck, so we hoped that by working together, we would provide real results faster.”
To unveil major research results, Gruss then introduced Dr. Eric Nestler, Chair of the HDRF Depression Task Force and Director of the Friedman Brain Institute at Mount Sinai. Nestler announced that the DTF’s research had identified 20 promising genetic targets for developing new antidepressants. All of these gene targets were narrowed down from a field of over 20,000 human genes over the past ten years, and have been extensively validated for their role in depression. The 20 new targets are now ready to go to proof of concept clinical trials.
Dr. Eric Nestler and Dr. Kafui Dzirasa _ Credit Sylvain Gaboury/PMC/PMC
HDRF Executive Director Louisa Benton then took the podiumto discuss HDRF’s community outreach and education efforts. She highlighted HDRF’s Race of Hope 5K in Palm Beach and Southampton, as well as the Teen Race of Hope in NYC in May, and several mental health symposiums throughout the year for the general public.
Mike Dudgeon accepted the 2023 Hope Community Award for his unwavering commitment to mental health research and support for HDRF. In his poignant remarks, Dudgeon said that the impetus for funding depression research was the death by suicide of his 20-year-old son in 2020. He hoped to find new cures for severe depression that shatters lives and families.
Sage Therapeutics, Inc. a biopharmaceutical company on a mission to deliver potentially life-changing brain health medicines, received the 2023 HOPE Corporate Visionary Award. Earlier this year, Sage introduced a breakthrough new treatment for postpartum depression to the market, the first and only oral treatment option for women specifically with Post Partum Depression.
Sage Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Mike Quirk said, “We are here to celebrate the power and importance of neuroscience research in transforming the lives of people living with mental illness.”
Audrey Gruss then presented Dakota Johnson with the HOPE Award for Depression Advocacy.
“We are honoring Dakota because she has spoken candidly and openly in the media about her experience with depression and anxiety since being a teenager, “said Gruss. “This kind of candor and sharing is part of the answer to the complex crisis of depression.”
In her remarks, Dakota Johnson moved the audience with her authenticity and humor. She opened by quipping that she was honored to receive the award for best depressed person. After the audience’s laughter died down, she said she was inspired by the work of the Depression Task Force to defeat depression, because her first-hand knowledge of depression is that there are no immediate answers or cures.
She spoke about the value of therapy and medication in her journey with depression. In addition, she practices transcendental meditation every day, and finds great relief in deep tissue massage, breath work, yoga, and swimming in natural water.
“I fully support needing the assistance of more urgent help, like the temporary use of SSRIs and EMDR or brain spotting, which I find to be incredibly amazing. As long as you are not harming yourself or others, whatever helps you, helps you.”
She concluded: “Removing the stigma of anxiety and depressive disorders and the means to help them is essential. We are in too much trouble as a human race to feel further isolated by the brain chemistry and complexities of the mind that we are born with, or the life experiences that we may not have chosen given the state of the world. If we help each other understand that caring for our mental health is essential, perhaps that will turn practicing self-love and self-compassion into a vital part of living. And then perhaps that will radiate compassion and love for each other and the Other, and then the world we live in will also become a vital part of living.” .
This year’s Event Co-Chairs included Susan Gutfreund, Maru Hagerty, Gillian Hearst, Kim Heirston, Tania Higgins, Eleanora Kennedy, Kristen Maltese Krusen, Susan R. McCaw, Kitty and Bill McKnight, Peter S. Paine III, Barbara and Randall Smith, and Scott Snyder.
Each year, the HOPE Luncheon Seminar is held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City and is attended by over 300 New York philanthropists, asset managers, business and media professionals, socialites, and celebrities who gather to raise awareness about depression and its related mood disorders as well as funds for continued research.
Founder Sponsors: EGL Charitable Foundation
Benefactor Sponsors: Brian Flaherty, Christina Flaherty, Annemarie Flaherty Shea & Max Shea, Abraham Fuchsberg Family Foundation, Richard S. and Karen LeFrak Foundation, Paulson Family Foundation and SAGE Therapeutics.
Diamond Sponsors: James R. Borynack & Adolfo Zaralegui/ FINDLAY GALLERIES, Jamee & Peter Gregory, Tania Higgins, Kristen Maltese Krusen, Susan R. McCaw, Thomas C. Quick and Barbara & Randall Smith.
Patron Donors: Nancy & Edmund M. Dunst / HUB International Northeast, Mary Ann Fribourg, Susan Gutfreund, Maru M. Hagerty, Gillian Hearst, Kim M. Heirston, Ambassador Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Sheila & Bob Josephberg, JP Morgan Private Bank, Eleanora Kennedy, Michele & Howard Kessler, Judy & Leonard Lauder, Kitty & Bill McKnight, Peter S. Paine III, Scott Snyder, Lulu C. Wang, The Shoreland Foundation, Sarah. J. Wetenhall and Lynne Wheat.
Bill McKnight, Kitty McKnight, Cameron McCray and Annie McCray _ Credit Sean Zanni/PMC/PMC
Friend Donors: Bloomberg Philanthropies, Laura Louise Breyer, Jackie Weld Drake, The Honorable David Fischer & Jennifer Fischer, Dr. Sharon Giese, Dr. Ernst & Nataly Langner, Susan Lloyd Lundbeck, The Honorable & Mrs. Earle I Mack, Stephanie Olmsted, Betsy Pitts, Roberts & Holland LLP, and Julia Ryan.
Gold Level Donors: Carl B. Adams, Catherine Adler, Mark Antilety, Muffie Potter Aston, Paola Bacchini, Barbara Bancroft, Felice & Shelley Bergman, Judy & Howard Berkowitz, Bruce Bierman & William Secord,
CeCe Black, Geoffrey N. Bradfield, Dominique Buaron, Janna Bullock, Joanna Carson, Myron Cohen & Federman Steifman, LLP, Diane Conn, Pilar Crespi Robert, Gus N. Davis, Deborah Farrington, Marjorie S. Federbush, Firmenich Inc., Frances & Jeff Fisher, Lionel Geneste, Jillian Gilmour, Darcy M. Gould, Lisa Granozio, Jessica Gruss, Mai Hallingby Harrison, Carolyn Ryan Healey, Linda Hickox, Michael Kahn & Charles Mitchem, Karen Klopp, Margo Langenberg, David Lapham, Bonnie Lautenberg, Simone Levinson, Tyler Lucas, David Lynch Foundation, Christine Mack, Ann & Cameron MacRae, Stewart S. Manger, Alberto Mariaca, Kristina Grimm McCooey, Heidi McWilliams, Muffy & Donald Miller, Diana Morrison, The Nederlander Producing Company of America, Inc., Anne Nordeman, Deborah Norville, Jane & Richard Novick, Dayssi Olarte de Kanavos, Constance Paine, Pamela & Edward Pantzer, Stacey Pashcow, Marina Pellecchi, Kathy Prounis, Olga Reindlova Neulist, Darcy Rigas, Barbara Robinson, Frances G. Scaife, Chuck Scarborough, Nancy Schaffel, Mary Eastman Scott, Jean Shafiroff, Catherine & Andrew Sidamon-Eristoff, Ramona Singer, Valerie Sloan & Sean T. Dany, Mary E. Snow, Amanda Taylor, Roxann G. Taylor, Barbera Thornhill, Lance P. Toland, Betsy & Wallace Turner, Lis Waterman, Pamela P. Williams, Barbara Winston, Clelia & Thomas Zacharias, David Zislin, Silvia Zoullas, and Maria Zoullas-Kaufman.
Gift Bag Sponsors: 4imprint,Cambridge University Press, Compendium, Eric Javits inc., The Estée Lauder Companies Inc., Fishers Finery, Hope Fragrances and Sio.
ABOUT HOPE FOR DEPRESSION RESEARCH FOUNDATION (HDRF)
HDRF was founded in 2006 by philanthropist Audrey Gruss in memory of her mother Hope, who struggled with clinical depression. The mission of the HDRF is to spur the most innovative brain research into the origins, medical diagnosis, new treatments, and prevention of depression and its related mood disorders – bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety disorder, and suicide. 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. HDRF is working tirelessly to improve the mental health landscape for every American. The Foundation has provided more than $75 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, and Stanford University. HDRF is also funding clinical trials into other novel therapeutics and diagnostic tests at Johns Hopkins, University of San Diego, and the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
(New York, NY, November 7, 2023) -The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) celebrated a milestone during the WJA Ruby Gala on November 2nd, 2023, held at The Pool in the Seagram Building in New York City. Commemorating four decades of dedication to empowering women in the jewelry and watch industries, the gala delivered an evening of unparalleled elegance, entertainment, and philanthropy.
The Seagram Building, an emblem of architectural brilliance, provided a breathtaking backdrop for the evening’s festivities. Guests were welcomed with a candle lit red-carpet entrance, capturing their finest moments through the lens of Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images.
“Our 40th Anniversary is an incredibly proud moment for our organization, and it is my pleasure to serve as President of the National Board during this momentous milestone. The evening was a testament to the work we have done over the last 4 decades. Most of us can attribute our career opportunities to the women who closed the gap for us, and we were so grateful to have many of the national board presidents and founders in the room celebrating with us. The work we do raising funds for the association and foundation nonprofits is the key to a brighter future. As we look to 2024, your support is so important to create programming for our members. Please join us as a member, corporate member, or angel sponsor to help us mentor and empower women in the jewelry and watch industries.” says Susan Chandler, WJA President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Citizen Watch America.
The elevated cocktail reception, featuring gourmet delights presented by Major Food Group, left guests delighted and satisfied. Acclaimed performers, including harpist Lexie Lowell by Élan Artists, a percussionist, duo aerialists by Astarte Creative, and the urban rhythm musicians Drumadics by Élan Artists, provided an unforgettable experience. Astarte Creative dazzled with a glamorous dance act performed to a custom montage of diamond and jewelry-themed tracks— a spellbinding delight with hundreds of crystals and giant burlesque feather fans. Topping off the evening, Lorenzo Laroc entranced all with an electrifying performance on his signature five-string plexiglass electronic violin, playing an array of attractive genres for guests throughout the night. During the evening, current international board members and past presidents were acknowledged for their volunteer work and photographed onstage, while The Pool emanated a sea of dazzling ruby red, from the gowns and jewels of guests in attendance. John Green, President & CEO of Lux Bond & Green, emceed the night with a contagious enthusiasm.
The highlight of the night was the thrilling auction led by Caroline Ervin via Lydia Fenet Agency, showcasing a luxurious five-star corporate retreat package generously provided by Inspirato for Good. The auction raised funds to support the Women’s Jewelry Association International non-profit and its Foundation arm, ensuring women continue to thrive in the industry for generations to come. In addition to the luxurious corporate retreat package provided by Inspirato for Good, a new second priceless experience was unveiled. Generously provided by Balmain, this extraordinary package included a VIP invitation for two to Balmain Paris Fashion Week show (choice of Fall 2024 or Spring 2025), attendance at Balmain’s exclusive party and cocktail reception, a private dinner designed for Balmain’s top clients, and an exclusive opportunity to tour Balmain’s showroom and place a pre-order on the collection. The second auction item also offered a private shopping experience for the winner and up to 10 guests at Balmain’s Madison Ave. flagship store, or a store in the winner’s city.
Atmosphere_ Credit Sean Zanni/PMC
“We are very grateful to all that came out to celebrate this significant milestone. The energy and the spirit of generosity demonstrated by leaders in our industry further illuminates they believe in all that the WJA does to provide meaningful networking, professional development, and financial support to women in our industry. ‘Belief’ is a powerful motivator, and it was evident in the funds raised for the foundation that the industry truly believes in all that we do,” says Gabrielle Grazi, President of the WJA Foundation and VP, Head Retail Strategy and Partnerships, Natural Diamond Council.
Monica Elias, CEO and Executive Producer of Elias World Media, curated the evening as WJA Gala Event Chair, which celebrated the beauty, creativity, and passion of the jewelry and watch industries. Susan Chandler was Sponsorship Chair of the WJA Ruby Gala, with both Monica and Susan being supported by WJA committee members: Aida Alvarez, Kendra Bridelle, Gabrielle Grazi, and Ivette Nersesyan-Stephanopoulos, as well as by Anna Samsonova, Jen Cullen Williams, Rachel Jurisz, and Jacqueline Cassaway. The gala brought together prominent names in jewelry, fashion, entertainment, and philanthropy, including Kimberly and Steven Rockefeller, Kayla Rockefeller, Angel Pai, Isabelle Bscher, and Janna Bullock. Industry VIPs included: Jack Gabriel, David Kellie, Matthijs Braakman, Howard Hauben, Anne Russell, Caryl Capeci, Adam Black, Esther and Ruth Fortunoff, Annie Doresca, Nancy Orem Lyman, Grant Mobley, Rob Bates, Jill Newman, and Adrianne Sanogo. Acclaimed jewelry designers were in attendance, including Stephanie Gottlieb, Monica Rich Kosann, Lorraine West, Malyia McNaughton, Joan Hornig, Lorraine Schwartz, Ofira Sandberg, Olivia Landau, and Kyle Simon, Maria Valim, and Steven Lagos.
Amy Levine, Brandee Dallow and Hayley Henning _ Credit Sean Zanni/PMC/PMCRebecca Boyajian, Grant Mobley and Gabrielle Grazi _Credit Sean Zanni/PMC/PMC Gabrielle Grazi, Monica Elias and Susan Chandler _ Credit Sean Zanni/PMC/PMC
“The evening was magical and a testament of what can be achieved when thought leaders and industries come together to support a good cause. We were determined to create an evening that was big, bold, and unique. Taking a chance, we incorporated many new elements not seen before, like bespoke dance and musical performances, an auction featuring luxury packages generously donated by famed brands, and the invitation of notable names in philanthropy, fashion, and entertainment,” says Monica Elias. “Yielding publicity leading up to the event from high-profile outlets, this level of exposure is good for the entire industry, putting everyone on the map for the fundraising of important causes. The excitement and energy that filled the room was lifting. Guests were thrilled to be a part of the evening and motivated to give back. We honored the past and present, and toasted to the future. We are grateful for the support of the industry and everyone who helped make this night a big success.”
The Women’s Jewelry Association would like to extend heartfelt thanks to its gala sponsors: De Beers, Jewelers Mutual, Citizen Watch America, GIA, Elias World Media, JCK, Krainz Creations, Platinum Guild International, Stuller, The Centurion Jewelry Show, BOSS Logics, Chrysmela, Goldstar, Heritage Auctions, Instore, Lux, Bond & Green, Marco Bicego, Richline Group, Sheetal, Uni-Design, V&A Group, and Casadevall Group.
The WJA 40th Anniversary Gala not only celebrated the organization’s achievements but also raised critical funds to support women in the jewelry and watch industries. The gala was a testament to the enduring impact of WJA in advancing and empowering women professionals in the field.
Rachel Rosin, Brandee Dallow, Ann Arnold, Anna Martin, ancy Weinrich, Kendra Bridelle, Jaqueline Cassaway, Susan Chandler, Gabrielle Grazi and Phyllis Bergman _ Credit Sean Zanni/PMC/PMC
The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) is a trailblazing organization dedicated to empowering and advancing women within the jewelry and watch industries. In 1983, WJA was founded on the belief that women could create lasting change by connecting, mentoring, and recognizing one another’s accomplishments. Today, WJA stands as a global network of professionals spanning diverse roles, from designers and manufacturers to retailers and media representatives. The organization’s mission is to facilitate professional growth through networking, education, leadership development, and a wide range of member services. Through its numerous chapters across the U.S. and around the world, WJA offers a spectrum of benefits, including networking events, educational programs, mentoring initiatives, scholarships, and grants.
About the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation:
The WJA Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA), dedicated to furthering the organization’s mission of providing women in the jewelry and watch industries with educational and business opportunities to help them achieve their full career potential. The Foundation operates as a 501(c)(3) corporation, actively engaging individuals and corporations to contribute and make meaningful impact through the distribution of scholarships and grants.
Leesa Rowland, an accomplished Actress, Philanthropist, and Author, together with Larry Wohl, hosted the “Old Hollywood Glamour Soiree” at The Venue in the Hard Rock Hotel Times Square New York. This event exuded the elegance of silver screen style and a gracious homage to the iconic stars of the past. The soirée transported attendees to a bygone era when movie studios shaped the glamorous personas that captivated our imaginations. Attendees donned their finest classic red carpet ensembles, indulging in cocktails and dancing to the enchanting tunes of live music, creating a delightful and nostalgic atmosphere.
Hank Stampfl_ Credit BFA / Sabrina Steck
The reception took place at the renowned Venue within the Hard Rock Hotel Times Square New York. Hank Stampfl’s Revel Rouge curated the event’s decor, cocktails, and dinner, incorporating numerous personalized details contributed by Leesa Rowland. Renowned Fashion Designer Marc Bouwer crafted Leesa’s exquisite costume, collaborating with Pedro Oberto to produce a special video featuring Leesa to kick off the soirée.
Leesa Rowland_ Credit BFA / Sabrina Steck
Notable Attendees included: Leesa Rowland, Larry Wohl, Marc Bouwer, Pedro Oberto, Ramona Singer, Carmen D’Alessio, Tina Radziwill, Debbie Dickinson, Wendy and Bob Federman, Dottie Herman, Pamela Morgan, Stewart F Lane and Bonnie Comley, Liliana Cavendish, Paul Margolin, Sergio Zapata, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Cindy Guyer, Nicole Noonan and Steve Knobel, Sharon Bush, Hank Stampfl, Lady Betty Grafstein and Jose Castelo Branco, Bill Sclight and Cheri Kaufman.
Stewart F. Lane and Bonnie Comley _ Credit BFA / Sabrina SteckMarc Bouwer_ Credit BFA / Sabrina SteckLucia Hwong Gordon_ Credit BFA / Sabrina SteckNicole Salmasi_ Credit BFA / Sabrina Steck
Fern Mallis, the former Executive Director of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, set the tone for the evening with her enthusiastic opening remarks which included, ” “A very soulful event and I’m delighted to be here!”
_Credit Andrew Werner
Adding a playful and lighthearted touch to the celebration, a quote from Kenneth Cole reminds the audience that the average woman falling in love seven times a year, with six of those instances being with shoes. Mallis’s mention of Marilyn Monroe’s famous quote, “Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world,” emphasizes the empowering and transformative nature of the right pair of shoes.
Vanessa Noel, a significant contributor to the existence of the shoe museum, is recognized for spearheading its manifestation, which promises to be a valuable addition to New York City’s cultural landscape. Mallis praises Noel for showcasing that shoes are more than just accessories—they are vessels of creativity, history, and personal expression.
The event highlighted the significance of exploring the world of footwear as a unique and unexplored facet of human creativity. With New York City already being a hub for fashion and renowned museums, The Noel Shoe Museum adds a new dimension to the city’s cultural richness. The gala appears to have been a wonderful celebration of the artistry and impact of shoes on personal style and cultural history.
_Credit Andrew Werner
Mayor Eric Adams donated a pair of his shoes.
Bernard Adams, the mayor’s brother, brought the shoes to the stage. Bernard described the shoes as not “sexy” but emphasized their significant mileage, attesting to the mayor’s hard work for the city.
Bernard shared a lighthearted anecdote about asking the mayor to take off his shoes at Gracie Mansion.Highlighted the mayor’s reputation as an early riser and late worker, jokingly referring to him as a “nightlife mayor.”
Bernard Emphasized the mayor’s dedication to the city and the museum, suggesting he will be a part of its future.
Later, Chris “Handles” Franklin, former player and current coach of the Harlem Globetrotters, along with current player Brawley “Cheese” Chisholm, presented limited edition Reebok basketball sneakers.
Mark Breland, former American amateur boxer and Olympic gold medalist, contributed a pair of his boxing shoes.
The exhibition featured metallic, gold Versace shoes from Danny Wegman, owner of the new Wegmans Grocery store in Astor Place.
Hunt Slonem’s paint-covered sneakers were also on display.
Fern Mallis showcased her lime green Manolo Blahnik heels.
H.R.H. Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia’s custom Vans were among the diverse collection of footwear on exhibit.
Two incredible “living shoes”, created by Italian artist Johannes Stoetter, performed for the first time in the United States. Dressed in only body paint, they assumed the forms of stiletto heels. Earlier Wednesday morning, just off a plane from Vienna, they performed on Good Day New York, live from Vanessa Noel’s storefront on 64th Street and Lexington Avenue.
_Credit Andrew Werner
Gala guests included Sharon and Bernard Adams, Teri Agins, Frederick Anderson, Keiko Ono Aoki, Michael Atmore, Jeffrey Banks, Tina Beriro, Cesare Bieller, CeCe and Lee Black, Sharon Bush, Liz and Gerry Byrne, Cassandra Cass, Lady Liliana Cavendish, David Patrick Columbia, Ruthie Davis, Mike Dean, Lauren Ezerzky, Pamela Fiori, Celso Gonzalez, Anthony Haden Guest, Nikki Haskell, Leila and Henry Heller, Omar Hernandez, Arthur Houghton, Dorothea de la Houssaye, Paris Hovnanian, Elizabeth Kabler, Roy Kean, Karen Klopp, Margo Langenberg, Alfred Lasher, Franck Laverdin, Maribel Lieberman, Denise de Luca, Pamela Morgan, Miranda Morrison, Roland Nivelais, Topper Quinn, Nicole Salmasi, Jean Shafiroff, Hunt Slonem, Tracy Snyder, Caroline St George, Benny Tabatabai, Joyce Varvatos, Robert Verdi, Christopher Walling and Shoe Museum Board Members Billie Bailkin, Susan Gutfreund, Hon. Carolyn Maloney, Joe Pacetti, Jackie Tucker, H.R.H. Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia.
_Credit Andrew Werner,
Pumpkins adorned with carved shoe designs served as the focal point on each table. Attendees engaged in lively rounds of bingo, vying for significant prizes. Later, they followed a fiddler down the street to OHLALA Supper Club for an exuberant after-party that had everyone hitting the dance floor. The evening raised money and awareness for the construction of New York City’s first and only museum dedicated to shoes. More information at www.NoelShoeMuseum.org .
Ambassador Gilad Erdan, the Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations, made a somber address at the 10th annual J100 Gala hosted by The Algemeiner newspaper. The event began with a moment of silence to honor the memory of those tragically lost on October 7th in Israel.
Dovid Efune and Dean Cain _Credit Credit Sean Zanni:PMC/Getty
Erdan expressed the deep sorrow and concern over the recent violence in Israel, stating, “The Jewish people have experienced a tragedy of immense proportions, akin to the Holocaust. Over 1,400 lives have been tragically lost, with thousands more injured, and over 200 hostages, including innocent babies and Holocaust survivors, held by Hamas terrorists. This battle extends beyond the physical frontlines – it is fought in our living rooms, on our smartphones, in our hearts, and minds. We are bombarded with falsehoods through the media. For instance, last week, Hamas falsely claimed that an Israeli airstrike killed 500 Palestinians at a hospital. Alarmingly, many news channels initially echoed these unverified claims without fact-checking. Subsequently, evidence emerged to reveal not only a gross exaggeration of casualties but also that the explosion resulted from a terrorist rocket. Tragically, this situation not only involves the loss of innocent lives but also the exploitation of their own people. In these challenging times, The Algemeiner stands as a beacon of truth, dedicated to unraveling lies and promoting accurate reporting. The Algemeiner is unwavering in its commitment to supporting Israel and championing the cause of truth.”
The evening’s honorees were Actor Dean Cain, politician Natan Sharansky (introduced by chess grandmaster Gary Kasparov), and journalist Irit Tratt.
Jonathan Tratt and Irit Tratt_ Credit Sean Zanni/PMC/PMC
Dean Cain’s remarks:
The situation in Israel is simple: “What has happened in Israel is quite simply, good versus evil, humanity versus evil.”
Acts of murdering innocent people, including 30 children were decriable..
Produced an Emmy award-winning documentary called ‘Hate Among Us’ in 2019, which highlights the rise of antisemitism in Europe and the United States.
Worked with ‘From The Depths,’ an organization led by Jonny Daniels, taking members of the U.S. Congress to visit Holocaust sites like Auschwitz.
Shared his personal experience taking his own son to Auschwitz and making a vow to never be indifferent again.
Pledged his support for Israel, standing behind, beside, and with Jewish friends in America and worldwide.
Concluded with, “God bless America. God bless Israel. God bless the brave servicemen and women of our countries.”
“For us growing up in the Soviet Union, the only Jewish thing which existed was antisemitism”, said Former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky. “Today, many political leaders and academics talk about Israel as an apartheid state. That Israel does to Palestinians what Nazis did to Jews. That Palestinian refugee camps are the Auschwitz of today. Cartoons of the Israeli Prime Minister eating Palestinian children as blood drips from his chin. I say, wait a minute, that is antisemitism. Those are the pictures and the rhetoric we were shown in the Soviet Union of Jews. They say we all love Jews, we will do everything for Jews, we are not antisemitic. They say they are against pogroms. But they are paving the way to the legitimacy of pogroms. That is something that we have to learn here today. We don’t need more lectures and more definitions; anti-zionism is antisemitism today!”
Former Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Natan Sharansky reflected on his experiences growing up in the Soviet Union, noting, “During our upbringing in the Soviet Union, the prevailing Jewish presence was defined by one thing: antisemitism.”
NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 25: Simon Jacobson attends Algemeiner 2023 J100 Gala at Capitale Bowery on October 25, 2023 in New York. (Photo by Sean Zanni/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Simon Jacobson
He continued by addressing contemporary discussions about Israel, stating, “In today’s world, we hear many political leaders and academics referring to Israel as an apartheid state, comparing its actions towards Palestinians to what the Nazis did to Jews. They equate Palestinian refugee camps to modern-day Auschwitz and depict the Israeli Prime Minister in cartoons as a figure consuming Palestinian children while blood drips from his chin.”
Sharansky emphasized the need for critical examination, saying, “It’s crucial to pause and consider – these depictions and narratives mirror the same antisemitism we were exposed to in the Soviet Union. They claim to be supportive of Jews, asserting that they will do everything for Jewish people and decry antisemitism, even stating they are against pogroms. However, they are, in reality, paving the path toward legitimizing future pogroms.”
He concluded by stressing, “Today, our lesson is clear – we don’t require more lectures or elaborate definitions; anti-Zionism is, in fact, antisemitism in the present day!”
The Gala marks the annual unveiling of the highly anticipated J100 List, which recognizes the top 100 individuals making a positive impact on Jewish life. Often described as the Jewish counterpart to TIME100, this year’s list features notable figures such as:
Ina Garten, known for sharing Rosh Hashanah recipes during the high holidays.
Ambassador Nikki Haley, a steadfast advocate for Israel.
Ben Platt, who spoke out against protestors outside the Broadway play ‘Parade,’ a poignant narrative of a Jewish businessman.
Sunny Sandler, daughter of Adam Sandler and star of her father’s hit film ‘You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah.’
Jessica Seinfeld, an outspoken critic of Kanye West’s antisemitic remarks.
Emmy award-winning TV journalist Dana Arschin took on the role of the Gala’s host. The event was co-chaired by publisher Simon Jacobson and Dovid and Mushka Efune, with honorary chairman Bernard-Henri Lévy.
Now celebrating its 51st anniversary, The Algemeiner is a global news destination published online and in print that serves as an independent media voice covering the Middle East, Israel, and matters of Jewish interest around the world. The Algemeiner has been identified as the “fastest growing Jewish newspaper in the US” by CNBC. It has been described by former Israeli Ambassador Ron Prosor as “the voice of the Jewish people and Israel” and hailed as “brave and relentlessly accurate” by longtime New Republic editor Marty Peretz.
Dana Arschin and Emily Lorsch _Credit Credit Sean Zanni:PMC/Getty
Mushka Efune, ?, Dovid Efune _Credit Credit Sean Zanni:PMC/Getty
(New York, NY – October 2023) – On November 10th, The Gun Hill Six, a diverse collective of emerging Bronx artists, will hold their second free-to-the-public one-day-only exhibition entitled “Dancers Every Night!” at Majora Carter’s Bronxlandia from 5pm-8:30pm.
Over 20 paintings and fine-art prints will be juxtaposed with the former train station’s existing graffiti and guests can enjoy snacks and refreshments during the event. Prints, t-shirts and other merchandise will also be available for purchase. Led by artist and Bronx art teacher, Robert Berardi, The Gun Hill Six was formed by Berardi last March as a response to the uprise in NFT’s, AI and daily content creation.
“Kofi and I sat upstairs from Mike’s Deli in the Arthur Avenue Retail Market to discuss the creation of a collective that would be as gritty, as funky, as Bronx as possible. If we couldn’t outclass the Manhattan and Brooklyn Art worlds, we could out-sass ’em,” said Berardi.
Their new exhibit’s title, “Dancers Every Night!” comes from a sign reclaimed from a Hunts Point strip club that now hangs in Bronxlandia’s adjoining Boogie Down Grind café. The old sign’s new context, highlighted by the collective’s Estelle’s dance performance with percussion by fellow member Kofi, symbolizes how Majora & The Gun Hill Six aspire to redefine culture in the Bronx. The night will include live painting and dance performances.
“The Bronx has always been the underdog borough,” said Nicholas Dwamena, a Ghana-born artist known as Kofi. “With the 50th anniversary of hip hop, people are finally starting to pay a little more attention to the culture.”
The Gun Hill Six Collective
Robert Berardi is a figurative painter whose work revolves around the life of a single character, “Desiree”. He was part of the first-wave Williamsburg art scene, where he learned how to mount DIY art events. He was a scholarship member of the Salmagundi Club. He started teaching art in 2007 at BCC Prep in the South Bronx, a position he still shows today. He has selected a number of his students to be a part of the Gun Hill Six collective.
Nicholas Dwamena, who is known as Kofi is a Ghanian-born painter and like fellow Gun Hill Six members AJ and Dezzy, he learned the basics of human anatomy, perspective, and colour theory from Berardi’s classes at BCC Prep, a public high school in the South Bronx. He studied Design at Hostos and Biology at St. Thomas Aquinas, finally switching to painting, against his family’s wishes, at Lehman College, where he is finishing his last semester.
Estelle is a student at Lehman College and a multi-media artist working in visual arts and dance. She uses self-portraiture to depict the emotional rollercoaster that we, as humans, constantly navigate. One of her main goals is to provide viewers with an opportunity to identify with her, to realize that we all share various states or moods.
Jade Rosario known as Dezzy is the youngest member of the Gun Hill Six. She expresses her deepest emotions in an ecstatic frenzy of creation, sometimes fingerpainting when a brush can’t keep up with the urgency in her veins. Her figures are oversized, in-your-face and confrontational.
Annjonnette Gooden known as AJ, grew up in North Bronx. While attending BCC Prep (Bronx Career & College Preparatory High School) in the Morrisania section of the Bronx, AJ discovered that she had a natural talent for drawing the human figure from life. She graduated in 2016. She studied Psychology at SUNY Buffalo. In the Spring of 2023, AJ became one of the founding members of the Gun Hill Six. She has recently rediscovered printmaking and is working on a linocut for her second exhibit with the Gun Hill Six.
Dana Leon known as DAY is a Mexican American artist and discovered art as a coping mechanism to help her deal with medical conditions including Tarlov Cyst Disease and Crohn’s Disease. She specializes in UV Reactive Art and Holographic Pointillism and is fascinated bioluminescent colors and dots, which has led to her admiration for painters George Seurat, Kahla and Van Gogh. She uses her art to help others find beauty in life despite any struggle.
At the Gun Hill Six’s first exhibition in the Glenwood Power Plant, Kofi, AJ, Dana, and Robert Berardi posted their manifesto touting Mythism, a movement in which the story behind a painting can overtake the painting’s original narrative.
Bronxlandia is located at 910 Hunts Point Avenue, Bronx, NY 10474.
The Salzburg Festival Society celebrated their annual New York gala last night in a private club with Chairman John French III and his wife, Carole Bailey French, as the Gala Co-Chairs. Salzburg is a byword among international music lovers for pleasure, for a change to see the best new talent, and for time they spend together in the stunning countryside of Austria. The guests in black tie reflected this, including Board President Nabil Chartouni and Board Members Lauren Carpenter, Marifé Hernandez, Alexandra Kauka-Hamill, Horacio Milberg-Uribelarrea, Elisabeth Muhr, Sana H. Sabbagh, as well as Tina Beriro, Rodolfo de Rothschild, Richard Gaddes, Kim and Mark Goldberg, Elbrun and Peter Kimmelman, Michele Gerber Klein, Lola Koch, Princess Caroline Murat, Heidi and Allen Roberts, Prince Mario Max Schaumburg Lippe, Theodora and Albert Simons, Daisy Soros, Barbara Tober, Adrienne and Gigi Vittadini, and many more. The Gala was sold out!
Laurice Helmer and Rita Mehos _ Credit Annie Watt Agency (John Sanderson and Jill Nelson)
John and Carole French introduced the evening’s extraordinary entertainment, soprano Brittany Olivia Loga and tenor Daniel O’Hearn. As John explained, “At the heart of the Salzburg Festival’s mission lies a dedicated focus in on the next generation, ensuring the magic of the performing arts remains. Salzburg is an enchanting backdrop. Amidst our daily challenges, the Festival provides us with hope, drawing guests from more than 80 countries. We must not take for granted the profound impact that the Festival has on our society today, as it touches our hearts and unites us in a truly remarkable way.”
Heidi Roberts and Sana Sabbagh_Credit Annie Watt Agency (John Sanderson and Jill Nelson)
The evening’s guest of honor, Kristina Hammer, President of the Salzburg Festival echoed his sentiments and spoke movingly of her love for New York, recalling F. Scott Fitzgerald’s depictions of the city. She recalled the Festival’s co-founder, Max Reinhardt (this year marks his 150 birthday), “he created an international peace project to show the power of creativity and intellect irregardless of religion or nationality.” With the coming anschluss he made his way to New York where he became a citizen and continued his many arts endeavors. She also noted, with shock and helplessness, the tragedy in Israel.
Elbrun Kimmelman, Barbara Tober and Peter Kimmelman _Credit Annie Watt Agency (John Sanderson and Jill Nelson)
Lola Koch, John French and Isabelle Tsereteli _Credit Annie Watt Agency (John Sanderson and Jill Nelson)
Gianluigi Vittadini and Tina Beriro _ Credit Annie Watt Agency (John Sanderson and Jill Nelson)
Founded in 2005, the Salzburg Festival Society’s mission is to serve as the liaison between the Salzburg Festival and its American friends and patrons, providing its members with exclusive access to events and services related to the Festival. The Society and its friends are proud to support the Festival’s artistic excellence and innovation in partnership. For more information visit www.sfsociety.org.
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 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) *
