Issuu

KIMBERLY PAIGE BLUHM

THE SOLENE GIA 2225649732

A sensational Le Vian Haute Couture™ Ring centered on a spellbinding 6.04 ct. radiant-cut natural Fancy Yellow Diamond (SI1), flanked by striking colorless Cadillac-shaped Vanilla Diamonds® (2.07 cts., E, VS1) and an additional .43 ct. of fine pavé Vanilla Diamonds® (G, VS), set in Platinum with 18K Honey Gold™ MLAA 701 - Price upon request

President & CEO

Jeff Mann

Editor

Penelope Herrera

Editorial Consultant

Debra Hazel

Associate Editor

Rose Leveen

Communications Director

Penelope Herrera

Graphic Designer

Sophia Nath

Cover Image Credit

Annie Watt

Digital & Social Media

Sophia Nath

Debra Hazel

Penelope Herrera

Director of Newswire Division

Cheri Phillips

Art Consultant

Avalon Ashley Bellos

Contributing Travel Editor

Magma Global

Aspen

Durée Ross

mann about town contributors

International Fashion Editor at Large London, NYC, Paris

Sofie Mählkvist 62

Kimberly Paige Bluhm—A Remarkable Life

Technology Consultant Eric Loh

Distribution Mitchell’s Delivery Service

West Coast Consultant Daniella Platt

Event Producer Arthur Mandel, Nolcha

East Coast Oﬃ ce 450 Seventh Avenue Suite 2306

New York, NY 10123 (212) 840-MANN (6266)

West Coast Oﬃ ce 578 Washington Blvd Suite 827

Marina Del Rey, CA 90292 (866) 306-MANN (6266)

Photo courtesy of Annie Watt

Merging the worlds of fashion, art, real estate and philanthropy, Mann About Town delivers cutting-edge lifestyle content to New York and beyond.

one mann’s opinion

Naturally, as we go along with producing these magazine issues for our readers, we continue to do our best with keeping it more exciting—and we feel it has been. Our magazine keeps getting more exciting as our content is fabulous, due to the collaboration between me and my editors. We are constantly looking to get exclusive stories and have what people want to read about. Our contributing editors make our magazine what it is—truly lovely. Our magazine could have much more pages with all the amazing content we want to share, but we keep it concise so that our readers can take in what we share with them.

If someone wants to contribute articles, they are always welcome to email me at jmann@ mannpublications.com and Penny Herrera at pherrera@mannpublications.com. We’ve recently increased our sales and marketing team and in the near future, we will expand our social media platform, hopefully early in 2026. I really appreciate what our contributors provide and look forward to providing you with more to enjoy.

In this issue, for our cover, we have Kimberly Paige Bluhm whose way of being is benevolently graceful. Grounded in family and faith, and leading with kindness, Bluhm, a former actress, gives back to those who need it across the country and abroad, striving to share her wealth in ways that help the people and communities.

You’ll also see other individuals that make their mark in the world–like Joseph Hernandez and Meera Gandhi. I want you to take in the who we spotlight because their stories are exciting, different, inspirational and simply amazing.

This is yet another issue we share with you happily.

“

What else is there in life but to accomplish things and to do things? Sure I like to be on a beach on occasion, I like to ski on occasion, but as long as I have the ability to make a contribution, I am going to keep going.”

— Martin Cooper

Malabar, the Future Classic’s collection

Photo courtesy of Malabar

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

Photo courtesy of Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

Bella Luna, Peach and Burarrata Bruschetta

Photo courtesy of Bella Luna

EDITOR’S LETTER

Hello readers!

We have approached the colder holiday time. This does not mean we stop being fabulous and active even if we feel tempted to not be.

Andrea Leigh Rogers celebrated the debut of her book “Book, Small Moves, Big Life” by being active. She celebrated with a week of wellness and style in New York City. Other events were celebrated through soirées, balls and galas, with people shining like stars. “Midnight at the Met” transformed Chelsea into Halloween’s most glamorous stage, the Angel Ball brought together many celebrities for shared purpose and compassion, Fashion Group International held their Night of Stars event, reaffirming FGI’s legacy of recognizing creativity and fostering community within the global fashion and beauty industries.

It might not be the summer, but vacationing is all year round, so enjoy our picks for you with our options to get back to warmth or embrace the cold. From Florida to Colorado to Morocco, you’ll have a great time.

Now, don’t go on to neglect your health. Mount Sinai’s Andrew Kaufman, M.D. is raising awareness about “never-smoking” lung cancer. Aside from health checks, there are wellness retreats and activities one can do to improve both physical and mental health.

We can’t forget our cover star, Kimberly Paige Bluhm, who moves effortlessly between diplomacy, art and philanthropy. She’s a former actress who now devotes her time to charitable causes that empower children, families and communities across the country and abroad. There’s a lot to know and appreciate about who she is and what she does, so take a look!

The rest is left for you to see, as I do not want to give away everything. Just know, it’s just as good of a read every time.

Enjoy!

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

‘MIDNIGHT AT THE MET’ TRANSFORMS CHELSEA INTO HALLOWEEN’S MOST GLAMOROUS STAGE

Leesa Rowland and Larry Wohl’s annual soirée dazzles New York with a night of art, fashion and fantasy

Leesa Rowland and Larry Wohl set a dazzling new benchmark for New York’s Halloween season with their annual celebration, “Midnight at the Met.” The highly anticipated event transformed Chelsea Industrial into a shimmering world of fantasy where art, fashion and performance intertwined in spectacular form.

Inspired by the grandeur of the Met Gala, guests were invited to “dress like it’s the last day of your life,” and arrived in avant-garde, couture-inspired costumes that turned the evening into a living museum of creativity. Designer Marc Bouwer created Leesa’s striking look for the evening, making her the “fire” to Marc Bouwer’s “Ice” costume. Under moody, golden light, more than 300 attendees mingled amid dramatic installations, live performance art and theatrical flourishes that made the night a feast for the senses.

A show-stopping performance by Luke K, who gave a stellar musical performance as “Cher” brought roaring applause, while a live painter created a masterpiece in real time with her movements becoming part of the performance itself. Elsewhere, interactive art pieces and sculptural works infused the space with a sense of wonder and irreverent wit, balancing elegance with playfulness.

Notable attendees included: Leesa Rowland, Larry Wohl, Marc Bouwer, Pedro Oberto, Hank Stampfl, Ramona Singer, Noreen Donovan, James Brynes, Nicole Noonan, Steven Knobel, Sandra Ripert, Gianni Musso, Stewart F. Lane, Bonnie Comley, Cindy Guyer, Niki Haskell, Marco Maranghello, Jose Castelo Branco, Kyle Farmery, Alan Wilzig, Sir Ivan, Paola and Arnie Rosenshein, Ann Van Ness, Sharon Bush and Bob Murray, Peter Thomas Roth, Lauren Day Roberts, Andrew Molen, Elyse Slaine, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Pamela Morgan, Amy Ralston Povah, Wendy Federman, Missy and Dr. Jerry Lubliner, Sergio Zapata and Paul Margolin, Les and Katarina Feldman, Cristina Fontanelli, Jane Pontarelli, James and Elvira Grau, Maria and Ken Fishel, Diana Mahrach, Carmen D’Alessio, Cheri Kaufman and Bill Sclight.

Photos courtesy of BFA / Madeleine Thomas

Marc Bouwer, Leesa Rowland and Larry Wohl

Noreen Donovan, James Brynes

Pamela Morgan and Marco Maranghello

Nicole Noonan and Steven Knobel

Ramona Singer BiatchTequila

Pedro Oberto

Angel Ball 2025

Jackie Siegel, the television personality best known for the Bravo show “Queen of Versailles,” which has just been turned into a Broadway musical starring Kristin Chenoweth, presented Amy Green, the founder of The Green Vision Foundation, with an award for environmental leadership at Denise Rich’s Angel Ball at Cipriani. Amy said, “I believe everything is connected—the earth, the ocean and the energy we share—and the Angel Ball embodies that circle of purpose and compassion.” Beyoncé Knowles’ mother, Tina Knowles, was also honored at the star-studded gala. Guests included Michelle Williams, Lil’ Kim, Brooks Nader, Kerry and Dr. Anthony Berlet, Melissa Gorga, Jonathan Cheban, Clive Davis, Eugenia and Janna Bullock, and Dennis Basso. gabriellesangels.org

Photos courtesy of Getty

Dennis Basso

Eugenia Bullock

Jackie Siegel and Amy Green

Ubah Hassan

Lil’ Kim

Clive Davis, Greg Schriefer, Chloe Jane

LL Cool J and Yvette Noel-Schure

Tina Knowles, Denise Rich and Gayle King

Ja Rule and Debra Atkins

Fashion Group International Celebrates 41st Annual Night of Stars Red Carpet Gala at the Rainbow Room

Fashion Group International (FGI) hosted its 41st annual FGI Night of Stars gala at the legendary Rainbow Room in Manhattan, drawing a dazzling crowd of designers, celebrities, industry executives and cultural tastemakers for an evening celebrating innovation, artistry and leadership across fashion, beauty, society and the arts.

This year’s gala paid tribute to a remarkable roster of honorees whose visionary contributions continue to shape global culture and creativity. The glamorous red-carpet affair featured an elegant cocktail reception, followed by a red-carpet dinner and awards ceremony, convening luminaries to honor the creative forces defining the modern era.

The evening was co-chaired by Alyce Panico and Claudia Poccia, with a host committee featuring Joseph Altuzarra, Linda Fargo, Nina Garcia, Dee and Tommy Hilfiger, Donna Karan, Nolan Meader and Jason Wu.

As guests dined under the glittering chandeliers of the Rainbow Room, honorees and presenters shared powerful moments of gratitude and inspiration. The event reaffirmed FGI’s legacy of recognizing creativity and fostering community within the global fashion and beauty industries. FGI president and CEO Maryanne Grisz shared, “Each year, FGI Night of Stars celebrates the individuals whose artistry and leadership elevate our industries and inspire future generations. This year’s honorees truly embody the spirit of art and innovation. We are deeply grateful to our honorees, presenters and supporters for helping advance FGI’s mission of mentorship, education and empowerment.”

2025 FGI Night of Stars Honorees

Fashion Visionary Award: Iris Van Herpen, presented by Lauren Amos and Law Roach

Fashion x Art Award: Jordan Roth, presented by Alina Cho

Media Award:

Stellene Volandes, presented by David Lauren

Leadership in Luxury Lifestyle: Sarah Wetenhall, presented by Martha Stewart

Retail Trailblazer: Jen Rubio, presented by Wes Gordon

FGI Founders’ Award: Kerry O’Brien, presented by Sarah Slutsky

Changemaker Award: Aïda Moudachirou-Rébois, presented by Nicola Formichetti

Martha Stewart

Nicola Formichetti and Aïda Moudachirou Rebois

Photos courtesy of Sean Zanni/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

Savannah Yarborough, Lauren Amos, Sybil Yurman, David Yurman, Zaldy and Rita Melssen

Iris Van Herpen and Law Roach

Alina Cho

Maryanne Grisz, David Lauren, Stellene Volandes, Alyce Panico and Claudia Poccia

Alina Cho and Jordan Roth

Katya Tolstova and Ken Downing

Kerry O'Brien and Sarah Slutsky

Andrea Leigh Rogers Celebrated Debut Book, ‘Small Moves, Big Life’ With a Week of Wellness + Style in NYC

Photos courtesy of Peter Koloff

Celebrity trainer, motivational coach and Xtend Barre founder Andrea Leigh Rogers celebrated the release of her highly anticipated debut book, “Small Moves, Big Life” with a series of inspiring events in New York City that embodied her book’s core philosophy: that small, consistent actions can create profound, lasting change. The book is available wherever books are sold, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble and independent booksellers nationwide.

The celebration kicked off Tuesday morning, October 14, with the debut of Andrea's Times Square billboard, a milestone moment marking the official launch of “Small Moves, Big Life.” That evening, guests gathered at Alice + Olivia on Madison Avenue, for cocktails, sweet treats and an exclusive shopping experience. Event proceeds benefited Project Healthy Minds, reflecting Andrea's ongoing commitment to holistic wellness and mental health advocacy.

Andrea teamed up with the beloved, “mother-inspired” French café and bakery, Maman, to create the “Big Life Almond Matcha,” a signature drink featured on Maman’s menu during launch week. On Wednesday, October 15, she hosted an intimate wellness event that brought the seven daily practices from her book to life beginning with a short energizing daily workout, followed by “do the thing” journaling prompts, an empowering Q&A and a book signing. Guests enjoyed a nourishing breakfast highlighting the exclusive “Big Life Almond Matcha,” leaving guests inspired to put its principles into practice.

From fashion to fitness, the week perfectly captured Andrea’s mission to help others move with purpose—physically, mentally and emotionally— and to make lasting transformation feel joyful and achievable.

About the Author:

Andrea Leigh Rogers is a celebrity trainer, motivational coach and the founder and creator of Xtend Barre, a global fitness phenomenon that combines Pilates, dance and functional movement. She has trained thousands of clients worldwide and built a dedicated community rooted in empowerment and consistency. Through her signature programs and coaching, Andrea inspires people to take simple, actionable steps that lead to long-term transformation—mind, body and spirit.

About the Book:

In “Small Moves, Big Life: 7 Daily Practices to Supercharge Your Energy, Productivity and Happiness (in Just Minutes a Day)”, Andrea shares the blueprint behind her philosophy: that even the smallest intentional actions can yield profound, lasting change. Blending science-backed insights, motivational stories and practical exercises, the book helps readers develop habits that align with their goals, boost their confidence and reenergize their daily routines—all in just minutes a day.

Laine Rogers, Andrea Leigh Rogers, Leigh Rogers

Andrea Leigh Rogers

Sana Miroshnikov and Andrea Leigh Rogers

Andrea Leigh Rogers and Ashley Bellman

Financing

With over 75 years of experience and deep understanding of industry challenges, IDB’s Commercial Real Estate team supports property owners, developers and builders across every type of financing requirement. We can help you keep pace with changes in the marketplace, while maintaining high credit quality levels and providing the personalized service, efficiency and flexibility to fit your specific needs.

For more information about financing solutions that meet your specific needs, visit idbny.com.

Cruising With Fashion

Looks that make waves when sailing

Cunard’s Transatlantic Fashion Week Makes Its Triumphant Return Aboard Queen Mary 2

Some of the world’s most celebrated names in fashion are sailing on Queen Mary 2 this week as Cunard’s fl agship hosts the highly anticipated return of Transatlantic Fashion Week.

The world’s only ocean liner departed New York for Southampton on October 31—the luxury cruise line’s fi rst Transatlantic Fashion Week since 2019 is once again setting the style agenda at sea.

2. Elan: Lace Tie Strap Cover-Up Maxi Dress in Clay | $74 | nordstrom.com

3. Hill House Home: The Cosima Nap Dress in Chocolate Tonal Seersucker | $218 | hillhousehome.com

4. Charles Tyrwhitt: Ultimate Non-Iron Chinos in Mocha | $89 | charlestyrwhitt.com

5. Banana Republic: Herringbone Cotton Long-Sleeve Resort Shirt in Cream White | $100 | bananarepublic.gap.com

6. Lands’ End: Men’s Travel Kit Harrington Jacket in Khaki | $99.95 | landsend.com 5

Fashion icon Christian Siriano is headlining the unique Event Voyage, whose designs have been worn by global stars such as Lady Gaga, Oprah, Julia Roberts and more. Siriano is overseeing two exclusive runway shows set in the Queens Room before sharing insights from his distinguished career during an intimate Q&A session in the Royal Court Theatre.

Adding further glamour to the voyage is legendary designer Bob Mackie, renowned for dressing global icons such as Cher, Diana Ross, Madonna and Miley Cyrus. Guests on board have the rare opportunity to view selected pieces from his personal archive, specially curated for this crossing.

Also on the voyage is supermodel, advocate and entrepreneur Coco Rocha, off ering guests a rare insight into her 20-year career in the fashion industry. With over 100 magazine covers to her name, Rocha has worked with the world’s leading photographers and walked for fashion houses including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, John Galliano and Prada to Jean Paul Gaultier, Armani and Marc Jacobs.

For more information about Cunard, future event voyages and to book their next voyage, travelers can contact their travel advisor, call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273, or visit cunard.com.

For travel advisors interested in further information, please contact your business development manager, visit onesourcecruises.com, or call Cunard at 1-800-528-6273

Photo courtesy of Christopher Ison and Cunard

1. Ann Taylor: Geo Stitch Sweater Vest in Camel/White Combo| $24.94 | anntaylor.com

Object & Dawn and Springsioux Unleash the ‘Paris Unchained’ Collection: A Cosmopolitan Evolution in Luxury Fashion

Fresh from its triumphant Paris Haute Couture Week debut—where Object & Dawn's bespoke pieces elevated Gaurav Gupta’s Spring/Summer 2025 show, worn by Megan Thee Stallion and lauded for themes of rebirth— independent fashion brand Object & Dawn announced the launch of its “Paris Unchained” collection. This groundbreaking capsule designed and perfected in a close collaboration with Parisian retailer Springsioux, debuted during Paris Fashion Week 2025. The collection reimagines Object & Dawn's signature avant-garde artistry for the modern urbanite, blending heirloom craftsmanship and everyday elegance–with an edge.

“Paris Unchained” marks a pivotal evolution for Object & Dawn, known for its category blurring designs that command the stage at weddings, red-carpets, performances and cultural events like Burning Man. Inspired by the liberated spirit of the City of Light, this collection off ers a more cosmopolitan aesthetic—urban, versatile and unchained from convention. Featuring sculptural necklaces, harnesses and belts crafted for daily wear, each piece incorporates Object & Dawn’s proprietary beading technique and modular ethos. Empowering wearers to compose outfi ts that transition seamlessly from boardroom power plays to evening soirées.

“Paris has always been a muse for boundary-pushers, and ‘Paris Unchained’ is our love letter to that energy,” said Saida Mouradova, founder and creative director of Object & Dawn. “After our couture collaboration with Gaurav Gupta, where our pieces amplifi ed themes of renewal and power on fashion’s highest stage, we wanted to distill that magic into something accessible yet transformative. These designs are talismans for the bold among us to navigate today ’ s world, unchained and unapologetic!”

This exclusive collaboration with Springsioux positions “Paris Unchained” at the epicenter of French luxury retail. The collection is available immediately online atobjectanddawn.com with prices from $150-$480 and available at Springsioux's Paris locations at 19 Rue Charlot (75003) and 83 Rue des Saints-Pères (75006).

2 1 3

Edgy looks that make a statement 5

1. ETRO: Paisley-Jacquard Shirt in Black | $490 | farfetch.com 2. Theory: Raffi Neoteric Twill Jeans in Black | $195

saksﬁfthavenue.com 3. Rag & Bone: Owen denim jacket | $174 | theoutnet.com 4. Urban Revivo: Wave Sleeve V-Neck Knitted Cardigan in Black | $45.90 | global.urbanrevivo.com 5. Rabanne: Layered Chain-Embellished Jersey Top in Black | $225 | theoutnet.com 6. JW Pei: Autumn Metallic Conch PU Jacket in Black | $239 | jwpei.com

Photo courtesy of Object & Dawn

MagMa Monthly

Getaway

THE ST. REGIS LONGBOAT KEY

Set along the sun-drenched shores of Florida’s Gulf Coast, The St. Regis Longboat Key redefines waterfront luxury. This exclusive resort blends refined elegance with the relaxed charm of a beachfront oasis, offering an unparalleled escape with world-class amenities, bespoke service and breathtaking ocean views.

Each of the thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites showcases a seamless fusion of coastal-inspired decor and contemporary luxury. Private terraces, floor-toceiling windows and plush interiors provide the perfect setting for relaxation. The St. Regis signature Butler Service ensures a truly personalized experience, catering to every need with impeccable attention to detail.

Dining at The St. Regis Longboat Key is an experience in itself. The resort’s restaurants highlight the finest coastal cuisine, with locally sourced seafood, fresh ingredients

For 12 years, Magma Global, an independently owned and globally recognized luxury travel agency, has been dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences with highly personalized service and unparalleled access to unique destinations. In every issue, we take you to some of our favorite places and share what makes them so special. As an independent company, we are here for you 24/7 via phone or email.

Email ellie@magmagt.com to plan your next getaway!

and expertly curated wine selections. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining with panoramic ocean views or sip handcrafted cocktails as the sun sets over the Gulf.

For those seeking adventure, the resort offers a variety of water sports, private yacht charters and access to championship golf courses and tennis facilities. The serene spa and wellness center provide a sanctuary for relaxation, with signature treatments inspired by the natural surroundings. Just a short drive away, Sarasota’s vibrant arts and culture scene adds another layer of exploration to your stay.

Whether you’re unwinding by the infinity pool, indulging in gourmet dining, or exploring the pristine beaches, The St. Regis Longboat Key delivers an extraordinary coastal getaway where luxury meets tranquility.

Photos courtesy of The St. Regis Longboat Key

Reasons We Love It

ADDRESS

Nestled on Sarasota’s most coveted barrier island, steps from the powdersoft sand and warm, turquoise waters of the sea, The St. Regis Longboat Key is a sanctuary of timeless glamor and impeccable service.

DESIGN

Visionary design and exceptional open-air spaces combine for an unforgettable stay in this 18-acre beachfront enclave, where marine marvels, spa serenity and a quintessential culinary journey blend exquisitely.

HERITAGE

A newly built icon on the historic setting of the landmark Colony Hotel, the resort references Sarasota’s cultural riches and performing arts, as well as the graceful dunes, waves and seabirds of its shoreline.

Things To Do While There

UNDER-THE-SEA LAGOON EXPERIENCE

Indulge in the most unique aspect of the hotel. Swim with stingrays, puffer fish and thousands of other fish varieties in our 500,000-gallon oasis.

TASTE THE WORLD

While at the property, guests enjoy a taste of the world. Inspired by the culinary traditions of Northern Italy and the Adriatic Coast, Riva is Sarasota’s premier Italian dining destination. Aura is the perfect spot for poolside dining and tropical cocktails. Monkey Bar is a laid-back beach tiki bar by the sea. Unparalleled mixology and spectacular views take at Oshen, the ideal place to enjoy a delicious cocktail and Nikkei cuisine as you watch the sun go down. CW Prime is an elegant and sophisticated dining experience focused on premium steaks and ocean-fresh seafood, cooked on our Josper grill, with an emphasis on top-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

RELAX AT THE SPA

The St. Regis Spa, a lavish 20,000-square-foot beach-front retreat, exudes Caroline Astor’s timeless sophistication and showcases the healing powers of water. In partnership with La Mer, the spa offers guests the ultimate indulgence, namely the Genaissance de La Mer Facial—a luxurious 90-minute treatment

3 Magma Insider Tips

BRING THE FAMILY

The property offers a signature Reef Rangers Club for kids that hosts a variety of family events and activities. Your little ones can have fun in the sun while enjoying nature in all its glory, building sandcastles beneath clear blue skies, playing in the gentle surf and gathering shells along the shore.

DON'T MISS TORTOISE TIME

Back on dry land, meet the resident Aldabra tortoises, gentle giants who are one of the world’s largest species of tortoise and among the longestlived animals on the planet.

EXPERIENCE

A SABRAGE

Every night at 6:00 pm we host a Sabrage at the St. Regis Bar, which is open to the public. The St. Regis bar, boasting its beautiful mural, features our signature Bloody Mary cocktail. Our Bloody Mary is made using clarified tomato juice and is named Ca’ d’ Mary after the Ca’d’Zan. The cocktail is served in handcrafted Murano glassware honoring the Venetian inspiration of the Ca’d’Zan mansion.

DEBUT OF TELLURIDE’S First ON-MOUNTAIN PRIVATE CLUB

Southworth, the family-owned, visionary developer behind some of the world’s most renowned private clubs, announced The Alpine Club, Telluride’s first fully private, on-mountain club that redefines alpine lifestyle with four seasons of adventure. Located within a stunning 26,000-squarefoot building at San Sophia Station, where downtown Telluride and the town of Mountain Village converge via the gondola, this inspired club will feature amazing culinary, wellness and mountain adventure programming, and amenities exclusively available to club members. This westward expansion marks a key milestone in Southworth’s vision for growth.

Created in partnership with longtime Telluride residents Scott and Lauren Woodward, The Alpine Club is a high-altitude basecamp for adventure, relaxation and meaningful connection. The club pairs Telluride’s rugged alpine spirit with Southworth’s signature brand of intentional hospitality, delivering a new standard of curated experiences and unparalleled access to the internationally celebrated mountain town.

“The Alpine Club is unlike anything that currently exists in Telluride,” said Tommy Southworth, president of Southworth. “This is not just about ski access; it’s about creating an elevated lifestyle in one of the most extraordinary alpine settings in the world. We’re committed to building a club rooted in community while redefining what it means to live and play in the mountains.”

Situated at 10,540 feet with sweeping 360-degree views of the San Juan Mountains, The Alpine Club will combine unrivaled access with unique amenities. Highlights include a spa and wellness center featuring a sauna,

steam room, cold plunge and stretch lab. The property will also feature world-class dining with an indoor/outdoor après lounge and restaurant with signature bar, dining room and chef’s table. In addition, members and their guests will enjoy personalized concierge services, ski and parking valet, a dedicated kids club, private owners’ lockers and changing rooms, a stateof-the-art golf, gaming and multi-sport simulator room with cinema and an expansive great room.

“Lauren and I spent years searching for the perfect partner to help bring this dream to life,” said Scott Woodward. “Southworth instantly stood out to us. They don’t build and sell—they invest, they listen and they lead with soul. Together, we’re creating something truly special for Telluride and a legacy for generations to come.”

Southworth is committed to supporting and enriching the cultural and social fabric of Telluride and has been engaged with the community since the inception of The Alpine Club, fostering partnerships with esteemed local organizations such as the Telluride Academy and the Telluride Film Festival.

Construction, led by an award-winning team of architects, designers and local artisans, is expected to begin in the fall of 2025, with an anticipated grand opening during the 2026/2027 ski season. Interior design is led by Pembrooke & Ives and will blend sophisticated alpine aesthetics and bespoke details with the rustic authenticity and understated, untucked style of Telluride. By using materials such as aged and patinated metals, weathered woods and hand-stitched saddle leathers, each space will be

Photos courtesy of The Alpine Club

imbued with textures and layers that harmonize with the surrounding environment, drawing inspiration from the local western aesthetic and the earth tones of the landscape.

The Alpine Club will offer robust and innovative programming across all seasons including festive holiday celebrations—a hallmark of all Southworth’s clubs—making the everyday moments stand out and the holidays even more special with new traditions. Members can expect a thoughtfully tailored calendar of extraordinary club events and experiences ranging from early morning tracks and premier access to mountain adventures to signature après gatherings and wellness retreats.

The Alpine Club reinforces Southworth’s ongoing brand promise: building high-end communities anchored by unforgettable experiences and a uniquely connected and welcoming membership base. This momentous announcement follows a significant investment across the Southworth portfolio, including a $350 million transformation at The Abaco Club in The Bahamas. The investment introduces new real estate offerings and an abundance of game-changing new amenities including the beachfront Bay Club and The Stables, a new racquet facility with tennis and padel. Additional exciting announcements across the portfolio will be announced soon.

For membership inquiries, visit thealpineclub.com. For more information, visit southworthclubs.com.

THE RETURN OF THE ICON: A NEW CHAPTER AT EL FENN

El Fenn, long regarded as one of Marrakech’s most distinctive hotels, announced the first chapter in a new cultural narrative with the unveiling of its reimagined rooftop terrace, restaurant, boutique, a new three-room suite layout and a selection of cozy rooms. Under the artistic direction of Yann Dobry, the unveiling marks the first step in a new era for one of Morocco’s most celebrated design destinations: not only the completion of the hotel’s latest restoration but also the beginning of a year-long series of activations that will reaffirm El Fenn’s place as a design and cultural icon. True to the hotel’s restless creative spirit, the refresh is less about change for change’s sake than about keeping pace with the rhythm of Marrakech itself: vibrant, evolving and deeply rooted in craft.

For more than two decades, El Fenn has been celebrated as a place where Moroccan heritage and contemporary creativity intersect. With each new chapter, the hotel has embraced reinvention as a form of continuity, ensuring that returning guests always discover something new while recognizing the unmistakable codes of the house: bold pattern, craftsmanship and its now-iconic red-and-white stripe.

through the suite, leading to a private rooftop retreat where lush planting frames a serene plunge pool: an intimate sanctuary designed for families or groups of friends seeking togetherness without surrendering to the city’s rhythm.

Beyond the suite, El Fenn’s courtyards have undergone a thoughtful renewal, their planting redesigned to enhance the architecture’s historic gravitas while casting a delicate choreography of light and shadow across the tiled floors and carved archways. Each intervention, whether in room, terrace, or courtyard, remains true to the unmistakable El Fenn ethos: a marriage of bold color, layered style and authentic craft. The result is not mere refurbishment, but an evolution of atmosphere, ensuring every corner feels both newly discovered and deeply familiar.

“For me, El Fenn has always been about the tension between heritage and creativity: a place where reinvention is our continuity,” said Mr. Dobry, artistic director of El Fenn. “Whether it’s the sun-baked tiles crafted for our bathrooms, hand-made lanterns, or the unmistakable striped parasols on the rooftop, everything is created within minutes of the hotel by Moroccan artisans. The result is eclectic, vibrant, sometimes a little maximalist but always grounded in craft. There’s a new energy in every refresh, but also an ease, an atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home.”

On the rooftop terrace, the hotel’s signature red-and-white stripes remain, now infused with a new energy. Monumental Moroccan lamps designed by Yann and made by local artisans, rendered in the same palette, are suspended like art installations, while bold prints and layers of vibrant textiles inspired by 1970s geometric, swirling lines bring a cinematic quality to the space. Local artisans, working with traditional zellige tilework techniques, have created striking new table designs that establish a fresh visual graphic identity for the restaurant. The atmosphere is abundant, with pattern, light and texture combining to create a rooftop that feels both timeless and newly alive.

The boutique, long known as a platform for Moroccan designers, also enters a new era. A renewed creative direction informs its displays and lighting, while newly built fitting rooms framed by sweeping Moroccan arches heighten the theatricality of the shopping experience. Fashion, accessories and homewares by local talent remain at its core, ensuring that El Fenn continues to act as both patron and showcase for contemporary Moroccan design.

These design interventions speak to a larger ambition. As Marrakech enters a season of renewed cultural prominence, with the return of Pure Life Experiences, the Marrakech International Film Festival in November, and the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair in early 2026, El Fenn positions itself as a living cultural institution, a curator as much as a host. El Fenn’s story is inseparable from Marrakech itself, a city where architectural legacy and living craft have long defined cultural identity. The hotel’s courtyards, arches and hand-cut tiles remember the artistry of centuries past, yet every intervention —whether a zellige tabletop or a monumental rooftop lamp is conceived with the future of hospitality in mind. In this sense, El Fenn does not merely preserve tradition; it actively renews it, ensuring that the vocabulary of Moroccan craftsmanship continues to evolve and resonate with a global audience.

The relaunch of El Fenn’s spaces is the first act in a year-long story of reinvention. Over the months ahead, the hotel will host a series of retreats spanning fashion, design and culinary creativity, culminating in February’s press and tastemaker delegation following the 1-54 Art Fair. At each step, El Fenn continues to embody the spirit of Marrakech itself: rooted in tradition, alive with change and endlessly inspiring.

El Fenn opened its doors in 2004. The property is open year-round with room rates starting from $366 USD per night. The El Fenn rooftop bar and restaurant is open to all visitors, with open hours from 12:30pm –11pm.

ABOUT EL FENN:

The three-bedroom suite at El Fenn has been newly reimagined, its spaces enriched with artisan details that speak to both tradition and transformation. Hand-cut zellige tiles line the bathrooms with intricate geometry, while unexpected tones of turquoise and deep red weave new vibrancy into the palette. A sculptural buttermilk spiral staircase rises

Tucked away behind the rose-colored walls of the Marrakech medina, El Fenn is an oasis for modern travelers seeking abundance in all its forms. Developed thoughtfully and gradually over the course of the past 20 years, El Fenn is a fusion of the finest modern amenities and a deep connection to place, providing the ideal setting for guests to completely immerse in the rich, vibrant culture of Marrakech while being inspired at every turn.

For more information, please visit el-fenn.com, contact + 212 524 44 1210, or follow at @elfennmarrakech.

The

Glow

Photos courtesy of Peter Thomas Roth

Let the holiday shopping begin! A PwC survey of 4,000 consumers shows that Americans plan to spend an average of $1,552 this season. Ranking high on shopping lists? Beauty products! Data from a recent Circana survey suggests that a significant portion of consumer spending will be on beauty products, with gift sets being a major driver.

So, why are holiday kits so popular? For more on this trend, we turned to skin care guru Peter Thomas Roth. An influential segment leader in the beauty industry, Roth is known for creating clinically stronger formulas and leads all research and development efforts at his state-of-the-art lab and manufacturing facility.

In general, why do you think beauty kits are so popular this time of year?

“I think the number one reason is the amazing value! It’s the only time of year when you can get prestige skin care favorites bundled together for less than the cost of buying them all separately. When putting together my holiday kits, I always make sure to offer my most popular products at incredible prices. I can’t wait for everyone to check them out. FYI, they make great gifts for other people, but it’s okay to treat yourself too!”

Tell us about your holiday skin care kits this year.

“I’m all about making clinical skin care fun and accessible, and my holiday kits are a perfect example. If you’re getting one of my kits, I want you to be excited about it! This year, the packaging really pops—with vibrant colors and playful prints, you may not even need wrapping paper. Of course, the best part is what’s inside! After you use my products, you’re going to look gorgeous.”

Which holiday kit do you think people will enjoy most?

“All of them! There are so many to choose from, but I think people will especially love my Full-Size Vitamin C & Hyaluronic Eye Patches 2-Piece Kit. It’s only $55 and includes full-size jars of my Potent-C and Water Drench Hydra-Gel Eye Patches for the price of one! The holidays can be tiring but sit back and relax with these patches and you’ll look fabulous and refreshed.”

Any other crowd pleasers?

“My 24K Gold Glow-Up 2-Piece Kit, because who doesn’t want a holiday glow-up? This kit has a travel-size jar of my 24K Gold Hydra-Gel Patches and a 1.7 fluid ounce size 24K Gold Mask for just $39. If you bought these products separately, it would come to a total of $83! You can give away the entire kit or break it up and use the individual products as stocking stuffers.”

ANY OTHER HOLIDAY KITS YOU RECOMMEND?

“Anyone with dry winter skin needs to check out my limited-edition FullSize Day & Night Cloud Creams 2-Piece Kit! It includes full-size 1.7 fluid ounce jars of my original Water Drench Cloud Cream and my Water Drench Rich Cloud Cream for just $54. In other words, for the price of my original cloud cream, you get a second cream free! You can use my original Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Hydrating Moisturizer as your day cream for fluffy-light moisture and line-smoothing, and my Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Rich Barrier Moisturizer as your night cream for rich, protective moisture and overnight barrier strengthening… Brilliant!”

FROM OPERATING ROOM TO BEAUTY CABINET: THE NYC-BASED PLASTIC SURGEON BEHIND A SMARTER SKINCARE LINE

As a reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon, NYC-based Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and Zen Essentials Founder, Dr. Alexes Hazen (@ alexeshazenmd) has a clinical understanding of skin health that most beauty brand founders lack. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Hazen has spent her career studying, operating on and healing the skin, from performing complex facial reconstructions and gender affirming surgeries to leading cutting-edge aesthetic procedures and scar treatments. Every incision, every patient, every recovery has given her a profound understanding of how the skin functions, regenerates and thrives.

Now, Dr. Hazen is bringing that deep medical insight into the world of skincare, translating the science of healing into products that support everyday skin health. Zen Essentials, her skincare line, bridges the gap between clinical expertise and accessible beauty, offering a line that’s as effective as it is elegant.

Your skincare routine is more than just a daily habit, it’s an essential act of self-care, confidence and long-term wellness. Dr. Alexes Hazen believes that beauty is a reflection of both inner and outer health, and that healthy skin can empower individuals to feel more comfortable and radiant in their own skin. Zen Essentials’ scientifically formulated products are designed to nourish, protect and enhance your skin while aligning with the brand’s core values of transparency, integrity and confidence.

“I created this brand because I have always been passionate about skin products and as I aged, I became passionate about skin rejuvenation and trying to promote healthy, vibrant, skin and specifically for skin that is sensitive. There are very few brands that have high-quality ingredients that have an anti-agent component that are designed for sensitive skin, and I wanted to create that. What makes my products different is that they have really high-quality ingredients, are luxurious and effective, and they’re at a price point that doesn’t break the bank,” said Dr. Alexes Hazen.

Dr. Hazen’s approach to skincare is informed by the same precision and care she applies in the operating room. She understands that the skin is a living organ—complex, dynamic and deeply responsive to what we feed it, both internally and externally. Her philosophy centers on gentle strength: using high-quality, clinically tested ingredients that support the skin’s natural defenses instead of overwhelming or stripping them away.

A well-structured skincare routine is vital for maintaining healthy, glowing skin at any age. Our skin is constantly exposed to environmental stressors like pollution, UV rays and free radicals, all of which accelerate premature aging, dullness and damage. Following a consistent skincare routine helps to hydrate and replenish moisture levels, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, stimulate collagen production and prevent breakouts.

Skincare, in Dr. Hazen’s eyes, is not a luxury, it’s a form of self-respect. It’s the daily ritual that reminds you to pause, care for yourself and nurture your body’s largest organ. “A key element of skin care is to protect and nourish the skin. To care for it without stripping it of its natural defenses and barriers. This means gentle cleaners and highly anti-inflammatory products, and ingredients that actually fight aging and promote longevity,” said Dr. Alexes Hazen.

Rooted in both medical expertise and personal experience with sensitive skin, Dr. Hazen developed Zen Essentials to offer effective, luxurious skincare solutions that are truly clean. Every product is meticulously formulated and free from sulfates, parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances and other common irritants, making the line ideal for those with allergies or sensitivities who still want high-performance skincare.

Some of the brand’s most-loved products include the Milky Facial Cleansing Drops ($60, hazenessentials.com), a gentle yet effective cleanser that removes impurities while maintaining the skin’s natural balance; the

Longevity Drops ($45, hazenessentials.com), a potent antioxidant serum designed to rejuvenate and protect; and the Zen Hydration Bomb ($50, hazenessentials.com), a deeply moisturizing cream that delivers hydration and luminosity without heaviness or irritation.

Each product reflects Dr. Hazen’s belief that skincare should be simple, science-backed and sensorial—an experience that not only transforms the skin but also elevates daily well-being. From ingredient sourcing to formulation testing, every detail of Zen Essentials embodies the precision and empathy that define Dr. Hazen’s medical practice.

As more consumers seek authenticity and results-driven beauty, Zen Essentials stands out as a line created not by marketing trends, but by a surgeon’s hands-on understanding of what skin truly needs to thrive. It’s where clinical expertise meets conscious beauty, and where every drop is designed to deliver results you can see and feel.

Discover the transformative power of clean, effective skincare today, and embrace a routine that enhances your natural beauty, inside and out.

Dr. Alexes Hazen

Mount Sinai’s Andrew Kaufman, MD, Is Raising Awareness About

‘Never-Smoking’ Lung Cancer, and Saving Lives

It was a moment that Andrew Kaufman, MD, could only describe as “auspicious.” A longtime patient, Carmen, was coming in for a checkup. She is a sunny 69-year-old who has never smoked, but still was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer. Five years ago, Dr. Kaufman removed her tumor in an advanced, minimally invasive procedure. Now, he had good news.

“It has been five years, and nothing has recurred,” he said. “I know it has been a long run, but this is the best news. You made it, you survive, and you have a clean bill of health.”

For Dr. Kaufman, vice chair of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at the Mount Sinai Health System in New York City, patients like Carmen are close to his heart—and central to his research and clinical practice. He is on a mission to educate people, especially women, about a disease that many are unaware of: nonsmoking lung cancer.

“One of the biggest myths undermining health today is, ‘I never smoked, so I can't get lung cancer,’” said Dr. Kaufman, a surgeon whose program at Mount Sinai for never-smokers has treated nearly a thousand patients over the last decade. At first, Asian women were found to be at highest risk, and the disease was thought to be mainly limited to that population. But that has changed.

“Unfortunately, what we're seeing more and more commonly is that plenty of people who never smoked a single cigarette can develop lung cancer, and we’re seeing it in everybody—women and men of every ethnicity,” Dr. Kaufman said. His group’s recent research, based on an analysis of Mount Sinai’s large and growing database of nonsmoking lung cancer patients, found that never-smoking lung cancers were more likely to occur in younger, female and Hispanic people, which is remarkable because it

reveals that it is occurring in a diverse group of people.

Dr. Kaufman predicts that within 20 years, about half of all lung cancer cases will be among nonsmokers. This is because fewer people are smoking, so a larger proportion of people will have nonsmoking lung cancer—which appears to be a distinct and different disorder.

Caring for the Community

Dr. Kaufman’s passion to detect, treat and in many cases, cure nonsmoking lung cancer emerged during his training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, where he was part of the team that identified mutations in a gene called EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) as a risk factor for the disease.

About 15 years ago, Dr. Kaufman joined Mount Sinai, because of its long history of doing successful outreach in the local community, and because of its overall excellence. The Mount Sinai Hospital—ranked No. 6 in the nation for Cancer by U.S. News & World Report for 2025-26—offers a full range of medical services. And patients have access to the vast resources of the Mount Sinai Tisch Cancer Center, including The Tisch Cancer Institute, a world leader in cancer research.

“My goal was to get the expertise in nonsmoking lung cancer that I acquired over 20 years of learning out to the community, and Mount Sinai was 100% supportive from the get-go,” Dr. Kaufman said. That support enabled Dr. Kaufman, who is half-Chinese, to establish the Mount Sinai Asian Thoracic Surgery Program in the heart of New York City’s Chinatown. His motivation was also deeply personal: two close family members had died from nonsmoking lung cancer.

Photos courtesy of the Mount Sinai Health System

Andrew Kaufman, MD

Through health fairs and other educational events, his team alerts the community about the symptoms to look for, how to get care and how to minimize exposure to risks. “What’s really important to me is that our program provides world-leading, dedicated care to everybody, regardless of their socioeconomic class,” Dr. Kaufman said. “We also try to take away the fear. We let people know that it’s not their fault if they get cancer, and if they get symptoms like a cough that won’t go away, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort, they shouldn’t feel ashamed or embarrassed to see a practitioner.”

The team also encourages community members to try to reduce risks. Beyond a genetic predisposition, “some of the most compelling data implicate the environments people live in, including exposure to high amounts of cooking fumes and high amounts of secondhand smoke in the home, if a family member is a heavy smoker,” Dr. Kaufman said. In addition, recent studies suggest that exposure to air pollutants—especially small particulate matter—is also a big risk factor.

It Takes a Team

Mount Sinai’s Asian Thoracic Surgery program is multidisciplinary, staffed by multilingual physicians familiar with Asian culture who offer both emotional support and quality medical care. The team of experts includes radiologists, oncologists, pulmonologists, pathologists and surgeons who work together daily using the latest technology to treat the cancer and perform operations that couldn’t be done 10 years ago, when the program first opened.

One of the most highly effective innovations is minimally invasive surgery, a procedure that leaves most of the lung intact and results in almost no blood loss. “Using robotic bronchoscopy, we're able to find the smallest spots in the lung and leave a fluorescent or blue dye in that area,” Dr. Kaufman explained. “This allows me to use robotic surgery to remove the smallest amount of lung necessary to cure the cancer. We now do this routinely, whereas once it was unthinkable—and the result is that the patient can return to everyday life much more quickly.”

Advocating for Screening

Dr. Kaufman is now focused on diagnosing nonsmoking lung cancer at the earliest possible stage, providing patients with the best possible outcomes and quality of life for years to come. “We need to plan ahead now as a nation and as individual health providers to avoid being overwhelmed by this new wave of nonsmoking lung cancer,” he said. “The holy grail will be for us to develop screening tests that can help us identify people before they have symptoms so we can get them into care and get them cured.”

With this in mind, Dr. Kaufman is leading a drive to secure funding for a lung cancer screening protocol and a research component to explore the science behind never-smoking lung cancer.

At the same time, as a clinician, he treats and reassures patients, like Carmen, whose lives initially may be thrown into disarray. “We know that a diagnosis is scary, but we're here to help,” Dr. Kaufman said. “Our dedicated and caring team at Mount Sinai is here for these patients, ensuring that everyone gets the very best care. We want to make sure they understand that there are definitely good treatments available, and that we can keep them healthy for a long, long time.”

To learn more about cancer care at Mount Sinai: To donate:

Dr. Kaufman informed his patient Carmen that she is free of lung cancer, ﬁve years after he removed a tumor in minimally invasive surgery.

Dr. Kaufman is a leader in minimally invasive, roboticassisted thoracic surgery.

Dr. Kaufman performing robotic surgery, in which he deftly operates the instruments at a console, with another surgeon at the bedside. Such procedures allow for smaller incisions, less blood loss and faster recovery.

BHUTAN SPIRIT SANCTUARY

Invites Guests to Celebrate the Festive Season With Wellness and Wonder in the Himalayas

This festive season, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, the world’s only wellnessinclusive luxury sanctuary with traditional Bhutanese medicine at its heart, invites discerning travelers to embrace the holidays in the pristine Himalayas. With crisp mountain air, serene valley views and a focus on holistic well-being, the sanctuary offers the perfect setting to end the year in peace and begin 2026 with renewed balance.

CHRISTMAS EVE – WEDNESDAY, 24 DECEMBER 2025

On Christmas Eve, guests are welcomed into an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. Before dinner, the celebrations begin with eggnog and canapés, setting a festive tone by the fire.

The sanctuary’s culinary team presents an eight-course degustation set menu, carefully crafted to bring together Bhutanese inspiration and Western festive flavors. Red and white house wines, mulled wine and local beers are served as a courtesy of the house. Bhutanese cultural entertainment accompanies the evening, blending traditions from East and West.

To close the night, guests are treated to homemade Christmas cookies and locally made presents, creating a heartfelt, festive moment of sharing and joy.

NEW YEAR’S EVE – WEDNESDAY, 31 DECEMBER 2025

As the year draws to a close, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary creates an unforgettable evening of culture, cuisine and contemplation:

Afternoon Celebration: Movie screening of A Yak in the Classroom, a beloved Bhutanese film, accompanied by drinks and snacks.

Pre-Dinner Cocktails: A festive gathering around the fire pit on the restaurant terrace with cocktails.

Gourmet Indulgence: An exquisite 8-course degustation menu showcasing the artistry of the culinary team, paired with complimentary house wines and local beers.

Cultural Touches: Bhutanese cultural entertainment enriches the evening, while a Bhutanese fortune teller offers insights and blessings for the year ahead.

Midnight Moment: Guests may join the sanctuary team for a celebratory New Year’s toast under the Himalayan stars or retreat to the quiet luxury of their suite to welcome 2026 in private serenity.

Beyond the festivities, every stay at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary includes daily wellness treatments rooted in traditional Bhutanese medicine, guided meditations, yoga and nourishing cuisine—offering a rare chance to align body, mind and spirit.

As 2026 begins, guests are invited to start the year with clarity and purpose in the world’s last great Himalayan kingdom—a land where happiness is measured and wellbeing is a way of life.

ABOUT BHUTAN SPIRIT SANCTUARY

Nestled in the Neyphu Valley near Paro, Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary is a pioneering luxury retreat dedicated to holistic well-being. The all-inclusive sanctuary offers personalized wellness programs guided by Bhutanese traditional medicine doctors, rejuvenating wellness treatments and culinary experiences crafted with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. With just 24 rooms, each overlooking the breathtaking valley, the sanctuary offers guests an intimate, transformative escape in the spiritual heart of Bhutan.

Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary is also part of the Small Luxury Hotels Collection— Considerate Collection and Mr & Mrs Smith Luxury Hotels

To make a reservation to celebrate the festive season at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary, contact the reservation team: sales@bhutanspiritsanctuary.com

Margot L Her Inten onal Lifes le Brand & NoPaRtIcUlAr

OrDeR

An artistic storyteller, Margot Lee has a romantic and quite powerful way of telling stories, fused with personal reflection. Her poetic approach to fashion, lifestyle and travel has now extended to her lifestyle journaling brand, No Particular Order, which is rooted in the art of journaling, self-care and staying in touch with one’s own growth. The world is filled with constant curation and digital noise, with No Particular Order offering a moment of serenity. No Particular Order is a minimalist journaling brand built on the importance of self-reflection by putting a pen to paper. The art of putting a pen to paper may be lost to many, but Margot is reviving it, one journal and one question at a time.

Photos courtesy of Emma Beiles Howie

Keith Haring’s Underground Liturgy: Collecting the Pulse of a City

By Avalon Ashley Bellos

New York’s subway in the early 1980s was not simply a transit system— it was a living organism. Damp heat, steel echoes, the rhythmic surge of crowds moving as one mass: the city’s bloodstream. Into that charged environment stepped a young Keith Haring with chalk in his pocket and a mandate he never articulated but undeniably carried. He did not ask permission. He simply began.

Those matte black panels—temporary covers concealing outdated advertisements—became his altars. In the flicker of fluorescent station light, he drew at speed, not from haste but from necessity. Transit police and MTA workers hovered as unseen variables, yet the line remained unwavering, sinuous, alive. Radiant babies, vibrating dogs, ecstatic figures— Haring transmuted public space into shared mythos. He wrote a new visual language where everyone could read the message, whether they had studied art history or were simply trying to make the train.

The material itself is inseparable from the miracle of survival. The black poster stock the MTA once deemed economical is now a relic—its layered fiber structure and unique tear pattern unmistakable to any trained conservator. Decades of oxidation have sealed the chalk into the paper, producing a soft metallic sheen that is impossible to replicate. On the reverse, fragments of vintage advertisements and residue from industrial paste form an archaeological record—time itself embedded into object. For this reason, original Haring subway drawings are regarded as selfauthenticating. The complexity of their material fingerprint defies forgery; the economics of imitation collapse under the labor required to mimic history.

These drawings were meant to be temporary. They were gestures to the public, not commodities. Yet their endurance—physical, cultural, emotional—has transformed them into something rare: artifacts of a moment when art was inseparable from city life. They are evidence of an era when the street was not a backdrop, but a collaborator.

Collecting such work is not acquisition in the decorative sense—it is custodianship. A Haring subway drawing is a primary document of American modernity, queer history, artistic activism and the democratization of visual culture. It is not merely owned; it is held, protected and understood. These works are proof that art can ignite civic imagination, that public gesture can reshape cultural canon, that line alone can become anthem.

This winter, DTR Modern Gallery in Soho will present a curated selection of original Keith Haring subway drawings, sourced from a collector who knew and moved alongside the artist during those feverish years. To stand before these works is to feel the pulse of a city that believed in the power of public expression, before commodification and institutional reverence caught up.

Collectors will have the rare opportunity to examine the unique material signature—the oxidized chalk surfaces, the verso remnants of era-specific advertisements, the panel stock no longer produced, the unmistakable speed and certainty of Haring’s hand. These works are not merely scarce; they are irreplaceable narratives of cultural change.

To acquire one is to step into lineage.

To preserve one is to affirm that civic imagination matters.

To recognize their value is to understand that art defines history long after history believes it has defined itself.

For inquiries and availability, contact info@dtrmodern.com and follow @ dtrmodern for exhibition updates.

For collectors seeking guidance in building meaningful, culturally intelligent collections—and for institutions shaping the next chapter of modern art stewardship—visit avalonashley.com.

Photo courtesy of Keith Haring

MICHAEL LIMAN

@michael_liman_photography

Michael.liman.photo@gmail.com

MICHAEL LIMAN is a New York based street photographer and visual storyteller whose work captures the layered, ever-evolving spirit of urban life. Liman, born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised on Long Island, works in both film and digital, in color, and black and white, exploring what he describes as “settings within settings” moments where people, architecture and time converge to reveal the quiet rhythms and hidden narratives of the city.

His first project, “The Sands of Summer,” documents the vibrant yet fleeting life of Atlantic Beach, New York, capturing the warmth, nostalgia and human rituals of the summer season. This early work laid the foundation for Liman’s enduring interest in place, memory and the passage of time.

His acclaimed book, “NYC Streets,” is a portrait of Manhattan as a living, breathing organism that is always changing yet timeless, filled with countless untold stories. From crowded intersections to forgotten corners, Liman’s photographs highlight the interplay between

presence and memory, documenting how the smallest gestures and interactions shape the city’s collective identity.

He is currently developing two new long term projects: one centered on Coney Island, exploring themes of transformation and continuity within Brooklyn’s iconic seaside landscape; and another set in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, where Liman turns his lens toward the vast American landscape examining the relationship between natural beauty, solitude, and the human impulse to explore and preserve.

With more than 45 years in the television and motion picture industry, Liman brings a cinematic sensibility to his still photography, combining narrative insight with technical precision. Beyond his work behind the camera, he is an avid collector of Leica cameras and lenses, as well as Hasselblad and Rolleiflex systems, drawing inspiration from the enduring craftsmanship and history of photographic design.

Photos courtesy of Michael Liman

Palio del Golfo Artwork: A Contemporary Architectural Masterpiece in La Spezia—Italy

La Spezia, a city nestled along the evocative Gulf of Poets, is home to a remarkable architectural work that beautifully bridges modern design and cultural heritage—the Palio del Golfo. The Artwork, designed by architect Enrico Pontello, is a striking addition to the city’s urban landscape, combining artistic expression with a deep connection to local history. The artwork’s design is not only a tribute to the Palio del Golfo, an iconic rowing competition, but also a showcase of innovative architectural techniques and materials.

The Palio del Golfo is a work that blends the timeless elements of La Spezia’s maritime identity with cutting-edge architectural principles. Inspired by the Palio del Golfo, a rowing race between the villages surrounding the Gulf of Poets, the fountain’s design conceptually incorporates the region’s rich nautical traditions. Yet, its execution is anything but traditional. Architect Enrico Pontello, known for his creative work in London, was tasked with bringing this vision to life using modern materials and design techniques.

The fountain’s most striking feature is its use of blown stainless steel, a material chosen for its aesthetic qualities and durability. This decision reflects not only the fountain’s modern character but also the architectural philosophy of resilience. Stainless steel’s reflective surface interacts with natural light, creating dynamic visual effects throughout the day. During daylight hours, the material gleams and glimmers, mirroring the changing light over the Gulf, while at night, the artwork’s steel structure transforms into a glowing beacon, casting long, elegant shadows that change with the ebb and flow of the tide.

The geometric design of the artwork is one of its most remarkable aspects, as it draws direct inspiration from the Palio boats and the nautical heritage of La Spezia. Thirteen radial oars, crafted from the same stainless steel, form the heart of the structure. These oars symbolize the 13 villages that encircle the Gulf of Poets, each engraved with the name of its respective community. The radial arrangement of the oars creates a harmonious sense of movement, evoking the rhythm and energy of the rowing competition, while also suggesting the shape of the hulls of the boats used in the Palio.

This layout not only honors the city’s maritime culture but also speaks to the architectural principles of balance and harmony. The structure’s radial symmetry imbues the fountain with a sense of kinetic energy, as though it is perpetually in motion, even when standing still. The arrangement draws the viewer’s gaze inward, creating a focal point that draws attention to the central axis, where the fountain’s water flows.

Each oar is oriented in the direction of its respective village, underscoring the connection between the fountain and the geography of the gulf. This careful alignment reinforces the structure’s symbolic importance, each village, though distinct, is united by its ties to the sea and to the annual race.

The spatial relationship between the fountain and the surrounding urban landscape further strengthens this thematic cohesion.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Fountain of the Palio del Golfo is its strategic positioning within the city, directly aligned with the Cathedral of Christ the King. This positioning creates a direct architectural dialogue between the fountain and the sacred space of the Cathedral, establishing an aesthetic and symbolic connection between the secular and the spiritual elements of La Spezia.

The choice to place the artwork along the main access route from the Cruise Terminal ensures that it acts as both a welcoming beacon for visitors and a visual link to the Cathedral, which stands as an imposing spiritual landmark at the heart of the city. The contrast between the clean, modern lines of the artwork and the Cathedral’s more traditional and monumental architecture offers a powerful visual juxtaposition that invites contemplation. The artwork’s sleek, minimalist design complements the Cathedral’s classical forms, establishing a balance between the past and the future, tradition and innovation.

The use of light is also central to the artwork’s architectural identity. The strategic positioning of the artwork, combined with its reflective surface, allows sunlight to play across its surface, creating a constantly shifting interplay of shadow and light. This dynamic lighting effect enhances the sensory experience of the fountain, transforming it into a living, breathing monument that evolves with the time of day.

The Palio del Golfo Artwork is not just a monument; it is a testament to the power of architecture to connect a community with its heritage. By using innovative materials, clean lines and dynamic forms, the artwork reinterprets the legacy of the Palio del Golfo while simultaneously looking towards the future. The Palio del Golfo offers a valuable lesson in how design can create a symbolic connection between the environment and its people. It is an exploration of how modern architecture can dialogue with the historical and cultural landscape.

Pontello Architecture and Engineering, as a firm, actively aims to welcome connection with like-minded individuals and design enthusiasts who share a passion for meaningful architectural intervention. Pontello invites dialogue and collaboration with those who envision architecture as a bridge between communities, heritage and the built environment. Projects such as the Palio del Golfo Artwork exemplify what can emerge when visionary collaboration comes to life. The aim is to establish meaningful partnerships that resonate across disciplines and generations. For those inspired to explore new opportunities together, Pontello remains open to conversation and creative exchange.

Photos courtesy of Enrico Pontello

Detail of the Palio del Golfo Artwork showcasing the innovative use of blown stainless steel and the precise engravings that mark each of the 13 villages participating in the regatta.

The artwork framed by celebratory ﬁreworks, underscoring its signiﬁcance as more than sculptural form, which is a living monument at the heart of La

cultural identity and communal celebrations.

Spezia's

The Palio del Golfo Artwork aligned with the Cathedral of Christ the King, illustrating the deliberate architectural dialogue between contemporary design and sacred architecture.

The artwork's 13 radial oars, crafted in blown stainless steel, capture the kinetic energy and maritime spirit of the Palio del Golfo regatta in striking geometric form.

MALABAR

The Future Classics at Decorex, London

A bold showcase of movement, provocation and timeless elegance. For Decorex 2025 tradeshow, Malabar presented a scenographic installation where color, form and texture converse in unexpected harmony. Malabar’s designers envisioned a bold chromatic story—a blend of Butter Yellow, Gray Blu, and Regal Blue, enriched by subtle notes of Green and Cocoa Bean. The result is a vibrant yet balanced atmosphere that awakens the senses and celebrates artistic freedom.

Graphic patterns and tactile materials shape a visual rhythm that connects new designs and iconic pieces under one coherent vision. From new designs to timeless icons, the stand becomes a living gallery, a dialogue between contemporary design and Portuguese artistry.

“We reflect on how his bold ideas continue to ripple through the spaces we inhabit, reminding us that architecture is not just built, but experienced, lived, and felt.” —Malabar

Malabar designs and crafts exclusive artisanal furniture with a distinct artistic design aesthetic. Abandoning the rules of right and wrong, most recently Malabar launched the Future Classic’s collection that is all about to move, to shock, to offend, or to be fabulous in your interior décor.

Bold shapes and noble materials come together to art-fill your home. Malabar’s designers present you with pieces of desire Malabar designers created a bold space with a museum-worthy furniture art collection to encourage interior designers to play with colors, shapes and textiles.

On World Architecture Day, Malabar celebrated the creative minds who have shaped the way we experience space, spotlighting seven remarkable architects whose visionary work deeply inspires Malabar, from bold façades and sculptural forms to interiors that breathe with life. Their genius not only transforms the world around us but also fuels our own creativity, reminding us that architecture is more than building; it is about creating timeless stories in the places we live, work and dream. A bold showcase of movement, provocation and timeless elegance. For Decorex 2025, Malabar presents a scenographic installation where color, form and texture converse in unexpected harmony.

Thoughtfully curated, our collection celebrates the art of dining as a playful ritual, one that invites imagination, conversation, and delight into everyday life.

Photos courtesy of Malabar

mb ly Paige Bluhm

By Jeremy Murphy

Kimberly Paige Bluhm

Photo courtesy of Capehart

By any measure, Kimberly Paige Bluhm has lived a remarkable life— one that moves effortlessly between diplomacy, art and philanthropy. A former actress who once shared the screen with Robert Redford in Spy Game, Kimberly now devotes her time to charitable causes that empower children, families and communities across the country and abroad. Warm, poised and unfailingly polite, she embodies the kind of gracious modernity that feels at once timeless and deeply human.

FROM SOCIETY’S STAGE TO HOLLYWOOD’S LIGHTS

Born in Manhasset, Long Island, and raised in Short Hills, New Jersey, Kimberly was always drawn to the world of performance and connection. Her stepfather, she recalled fondly, “always told me I was the best networker. I loved people and I had such a skill to put them together.” That innate ability to connect others would become a hallmark of her life.

After attending Morristown-Beard and Harvard’s continuing education program, Kimberly pursued acting, studying at the Lee Strasberg School in New York. She landed a role on “All My Children” in her early twenties, a dream come true that also offered an early glimpse into the complexities of Hollywood in the 1980s. “It was amazing on one hand,” she said, “but tough on the other. The environment back then could be uncomfortable, and I wasn’t willing to compromise my integrity. So, I walked away.”

Her decision led to a new chapter behind the camera, working with legendary photographer Steven Meisel during one of fashion’s most electric eras. Kimberly helped manage Meisel’s studio, overseeing castings and coordinating shoots for designers like Versace and Prada, and even assisted on Madonna’s provocative “Sex” book, then wrapped in metallic foil and shrouded in secrecy. “We had to hide the prints in our bags and deliver them to her apartment. Everyone was terrified they’d be stolen.”

Those years, Kimberly said, were an education in art, personality and resilience. “There were so many big personalities. It taught me that there are all kinds of people, and how to navigate them.”

A DIPLOMATIC LIFE ABROAD

Fate would soon take her far from the fashion capitals of the world. Married to a U.S. ambassador, Kimberly moved to Budapest in the late 1990s, during the second Clinton administration. There, she immersed herself in diplomatic life and humanitarian work—traveling with Hungary’s First Lady to refugee camps and orphanages in the aftermath of the Kosovo War.

“We met children whose parents were killed or displaced. I gave grants on behalf of the State Department for textbooks, computers, nutritional programs,” she recalled. “That’s where I really developed my passion for helping children. They were so loving and talented. When we left, they’d chase after our van, calling out, ‘Kimberly, don’t leave!’ It pulled at my heart.”

While living abroad, she was cast in a Hungarian television drama, and serendipity later brought her back to acting when “Spy Game”—directed by Tony Scott and starring Brad Pitt and Robert Redford—was filmed in Budapest. Redford’s on-screen wife couldn’t make it, and Kimberly landed the role. “It was such a surprise. They put me on tape, sent it to Tony, and he hired me,” she said with characteristic modesty.

Kimberly Paige Bluhm Photo courtesy of Annie Watt

Brad Pitt, Kimberly Paige and Robert Redford

A MARRIAGE OF MINDS AND MISSIONS

Today, Kimberly is married to billionaire Neil Bluhm—developer, casino magnate and one of the nation’s foremost philanthropists. The Bluhms divide their time between Chicago, Palm Beach, Miami and Aspen—each home reflecting their love of art, culture and community. Together, they have supported numerous causes, from Northwestern Memorial Hospital’s Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute (to which Neil donated $55 million) to Jewish organizations and first responder charities across the country.

In Palm Beach they donate to the Police and Fire Rescue Foundation, and in Aspen, Kimberly has supported and served on the board of Jazzaspen Snowmass, and they sit on the National Council of the Aspen Art museum. In every community they touch, the Bluhms are known for combining generosity with genuine engagement.

Kimberly, too, has carved her own philanthropic path—one guided by empathy and intention. “I try to do a few things and do them well,” she explained. “I’m a wife, a mother, and I travel a lot with my husband, so I choose organizations where I can really make an impact.”

PHILANTHROPY WITH HEART

Among Kimberly’s most cherished commitments is the Alexander W. Dreyfoos School of the Arts in Palm Beach, a public high school that provides world-class arts education to students, many from underprivileged backgrounds. “I went for a tour with a friend,” she recalled. “We met eight students who shared their stories. I was blown away. The passion and talent were incredible. I said, ‘I’m putting my attention here.’”

In Miami, Kimberly serves as part of the Miami-Dade Impact Collective, a group of 30–40 women who pool resources and collectively vote on grants to benefit local organizations helping homeless families and children. “We visit the programs ourselves, see the results, and get progress reports,” she said. “It’s inspiring to watch our contributions make a tangible difference.” Her devotion to children and education stems from a worldview shaped by gratitude. “Helping disenfranchised kids—that’s what grabs my attention. They’re innocent. They deserve opportunity and hope.”

Kimberly and Neil Bluhm Photo courtesy of Sheri Whitko Photography

Kimberly Bluhm and Sarah Wetenhall

Photo courtesy of Annie Watt

Karen LeFrak, Josh Groban, Kimberly Bluhm

Photo courtesy of Brandon Patoc for NY Philharmonic

A COLLECTOR’S EYE

Art has always been central to Kimberly’s life, and their homes reflects both her refined taste and her appreciation for creativity. “Neil has an extraordinary collection, and I’ve developed my own. Art gives a space, a soul.”

The couple’s shared love of culture extends to the Whitney Museum, where Neil serves on the board, and to their global travels, which often revolve around art fairs and exhibitions. In December, they will attend Art Basel Miami, and where their calendar fills with museum galas, private viewings and dinners with friends from the art world.

SEASONS OF A BEAUTIFUL LIFE

Kimberly and Neil’s life unfolds in rhythm with the seasons. Winters are spent between Palm Beach and Miami, where they host and attend fundraisers for their chosen causes. Spring and fall are for Chicago, where they maintain a residence overlooking the lake. July brings Aspen, where Kimberly once lived full-time and still has deep friendships. “Aspen is magical,” she said. “It’s a real community—intellectual, creative and closeknit. We hike, we entertain, we reconnect with friends.”

Summers occasionally include travel abroad—The South of France and Italy rank among her favorites. “We were recently in Venice. It was incredible,” she said. “The weather was perfect, the light was beautiful, and the people were warm.”

At year’s end, the couple’s routine is refreshingly personal. “I always have Thanksgiving with my mother, son, and brother with his family in Palm Beach,” she said. “Then Neil and I meet up in Miami for Art Basel.”

A HOME FOR THE HEART

For all her achievements, Kimberly remains grounded by family and faith. Her mother lives in Florida’s Vero Beach, her grown son in Chicago, just a few blocks away from her. “I can look out my window and see his building,” she laughed. “It’s wonderful.”

She speaks often of gratitude—for freedom, opportunity and the ability to give back. Having seen hardship firsthand, she carries perspective with grace. “Living in Hungary and meeting people who were prisoners in their own country, while under the Russian occupation after World War 2 until 1989, made me realize how blessed we are to live in America. Even with all our problems, it’s still the greatest country in the world.”

LEADING WITH KINDNESS

Whether she’s attending a fundraiser, hosting friends for dinner in Aspen, or mentoring young artists in Palm Beach, Kimberly leads with the same qualities that have defined her journey—warmth, curiosity and a genuine love for people.

“Kindness and connection matter,” she said simply. “I’ve learned that no matter where you are—in Hollywood, Budapest, or Palm Beach—it’s people who make the experience worthwhile.”

From the lights of “All My Children” to the halls of diplomacy and the classrooms of the Dreyfoos School, Kimberly Paige Bluhm has built a life defined by compassion, beauty and the art of giving back.

Kimberly Paige Bluhm Photo courtesy of Annie Watt

Kimberly Paige Bluhm and Neil Bluhm

Photo courtesy of BFA

Kimberly Paige Bluhm with her son Liam

Photo courtesy o Kimberly Bluhm

Kimberly Paige Bluhm and Cornelia Guest

Photo courtesy of Annie Watt

DOLCE&GABBANA

VELVET HONEY SANTAL AND VELVET PASSION OUD

Dolce&Gabbana unveiled two new additions to the exclusive Velvet Collection: Velvet Honey Santal and Velvet Passion Oud. These fragrances explore the art of olfactory richness with modern elegance, reimagining traditionally addictive ingredients selected for their uniqueness and rarity with unexpected, contemporary twists. With these two exceptional novelties, Dolce&Gabbana magnifies the sunlit radiance of golden honey and the smoky allure of a passion fruit and oud duo, crafting a sensory journey of warmth and intensity. Each fragrance unveils a contrasting dimension of seduction: one bright and sun-drenched, the other voluptuous and enigmatic. Together, they mark a new chapter in the Velvet Collection’s story: a pursuit of beauty through olfactive memories and love for Italy, elevated by tradition, and refined by the signature of Dolce&Gabbana.

VELVET HONEY SANTAL

Created by perfumer Aurélien Guichard, Velvet Honey Santal is a woody gourmand fragrance that pays homage to “il miele di Sicilia” (sicilian honey), the fabled nectar of the gods. Inspired by the golden laurels of the gods and goddesses of the ancient Greek temples of Sicily, this luminous composition opens with dazzling notes of golden honey, enveloped in the creamy warmth of sandalwood. A balsamic heart of styrax and gurjum balsam leads to a sensual base of sweet amber and warm benzoin, creating an inebriating and radiant trail that glows on the skin. An exquisite interpretation of indulgence, Velvet Honey Santal evokes the sunlit elegance of a divine nectar made modern.

VELVET PASSION OUD

Composed by perfumer Paul Guerlain, Velvet Passion Oud captures the spirit of an Arabian palace in Palermo, where dazzling frescoes meet the enveloping volutes of narghile in timeless harmony. This fruity oud fragrance opens with addictive passion fruit, contrasting with the opulent, burning embrace of a narghile accord. A heart of saffron and rose lends a sensual sophistication, while a base of smoky cistus and forever opulent natural oud deepens the composition. Richly layered and voluptuous, Velvet Passion Oud is a fragrance of whispered stories and unspoken desires. An homage to the Arabian heritage of Sicily, where past meets present, and scent becomes legend.

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1. Loewe, Perfumes Home Scents Cypress Balls Gift Set, $250, perfumesloewe.com 2. Miraki Jewels, Confetti Tennis Necklace, $4,620, mirakijewels.com 3. Crown Affair, The Air Dry Ritual Hair Gift Set, $75, sephora.com 4. David Yurman, Classic Cable Bracelet 4mm (Baby Pink Aluminum), $295, davidyurman.com 5. Mark and Graham, Isabella Belted Suede Handbag (Chocolate), $169, markandgraham. com 6. Bombas, Men's Sunday Slipper (Dark Espresso), $85, bombas.com 7. Sternglas, Berlin 38 mm / Quartz (Sepia Gold), $299, sternglas.com 8. Taylor Stitch, The Carnegie Pant (Gravel Herringbone Wool), $188, taylorstitch.com 9. Poetry Fashion, Moss-stitch Sweater Délavé Linen (Parchment), $189, poetryfashion.com 10. OGLmove, CashSoft Wool-like Flared Maxi Skirt (Heather Oatmeal), $79, oglmove.com 11. Williams Sonoma, Winter Forest Guest Set, $39.95, williams-sonoma.com 12. Harper Cashmere, 100% Cashmere Shawl with Tie Closure (Beige), $109, harpercashmere.com

AYAH

BRINGS AUTHENTIC MOROCCAN CUISINE TO NEW YORK CITY’S DINING SCENE

3rd Space Hospitality, the powerhouse team behind standout restaurants like Maison Close, announced the grand opening of Ayah, an authentic Moroccan restaurant poised to become New York City’s go-to vibe dining destination. Located at 77 West Houston Street in SoHo, Ayah opened its doors September 10th, bringing the rich flavors, artistry and celebratory spirit of Morocco to one of the city’s most exciting culinary neighborhoods. As SoHo continues to attract some of the trendiest restaurants, Ayah will add to its reputation as a must-visit destination for globally inspired cuisine.

At the helm of Ayah’s kitchen is Executive Chef Geoffrey Lechantoux, a celebrated name in French cuisine. To master Moroccan flavors, Chef Geoffrey trained under esteemed Chef Meryem Cherkaoui, a graduate of the Institute Paul Bocuse and a global ambassador for Moroccan gastronomy. Chef Meryem’s acclaimed restaurant, La Maison du Gourmet, has cemented her reputation, with appearances on “Top Chef France” and “MasterChef France.” Chef Geoffrey is joined by Chef Aïcha Sbaih, a French-born Moroccan chef who grew up immersed in the sacred traditions of Moroccan cuisine. Their collaboration brings an expertly crafted menu that blends classic and contemporary Moroccan flavors, offering guests a culinary journey through Morocco’s rich heritage.

“We’re excited to bring Morocco to New York. Every dish and every detail has been crafted with authenticity to create an immersive dining experience that transports our guests to Morocco's vibrant culinary world,” said Executive Chef Geoffrey Lechantoux.

Menu highlights include:

Chhiwates: A colorful assortment of traditional Moroccan small plates, celebrating the vibrant flavors of the region. Crafted from fresh vegetables, spices and aromatic herbs, these little salads and appetizers set the tone for an authentic experience.

Ayah Pastilla: Crispy pastry filled with spiced chicken, almonds and cinnamon—a signature Moroccan delicacy.

Tajines and Couscous Selection: The heart of Moroccan cuisine: slowcooked stews rich with spices and sweetness, paired with fluffy semolina grains served with vibrant vegetables and aromatic broth.

Whole Fish, Whole Rack of Lamb, Cut Tableside: A showstopping tableside service, featuring whole fish expertly deboned and served in front of guests.

The bar program at Ayah, crafted by Adrien Lefort—recognized as one of the top ten mixologists in New York City—brings a playful yet sophisticated twist to every sip. One standout is The Dellah, a refreshing mix of citronflavored vodka, jasmine tea, watermelon, mint, lime juice and champagne, offering a perfect balance of floral and fruity notes. Another unique creation is The Climbing Goat, a daring blend of mezcal, house-made pistachio liqueur, goat cheese, honey and rose, showcasing an unexpected harmony between smoky, creamy and sweet elements. Each cocktail is a reflection of Lefort’s playful approach to mixology, elevating the bar experience to new heights.

Designed in collaboration with DMDesigns, Ayah offers an immersive dining experience that seamlessly blends intricate Moroccan craftsmanship with modern New York elegance. Every aspect of the restaurant, from the custom-made tables and handcrafted windows to the flowing velvet curtains and archways, was meticulously created by Moroccan artisans and imported directly to New York City. The space features rich fabrics, carved tables, gold-accented mirrors and custom-designed lighting, all carefully selected to evoke the warmth and vibrancy of Moroccan culture. With three distinct dining rooms, a central bar and long banquet tables for larger groups, the atmosphere transitions effortlessly from intimate dinners to lively celebrations. Hand-painted walls, perforated panels and striking local murals further enhance the authenticity, making Ayah a truly immersive celebration of Moroccan heritage.

As SoHo continues to evolve as a premier dining destination, Ayah will add to its energy, offering a one-of-a-kind Moroccan dining experience that merges authenticity, artistry and modern flair. Whether for group gatherings, private events, or vibrant nights out, Ayah invites guests to indulge in the essence of Morocco right in the heart of New York City.

The restaurant will be open Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6PM – 2AM and Wednesday and Sunday 6PM – Midnight. For more information or reservations, please visit ayahrestaurant.com and follow @ayahrestaurant. on Instagram for updates.

Photos courtesy of 3rd Space Hospitality, Bite Sized Studio

3rd Space Hospitality hosted a Moroccan Dinner Party to unveil AYAH

The event was attended by Alexander Hankin, Ally Shapiro, Carly Ziff (Influencer), Brooks Marks (Next Gen NYC), Eric Goldie (Influencer), Georgia McCann (Next Gen NYC), Jordan Emanuel (Winter House) Kate Barton (Designer), Kim Shui (Designer), Meredith Marks (RHOSLC), Piper Phillips (Influencer), Shabnam Safarzadeh, Shay Safarzadeh, Vivi Armacost (Influencer) and more.

Located in SoHo on West Houston, the authentic Moroccan restaurant is poised to become New York City’s go-to vibe dining destination. Ayah brings the rich flavors, artistry and celebratory spirit of Morocco to one of the city's most exciting culinary neighborhoods. Chef Geoffrey is joined by Chef Aïcha Sbaih, a French-born Moroccan chef who grew up immersed in the sacred traditions of Moroccan cuisine. Their collaboration brings an expertly crafted menu that blends classic and contemporary Moroccan flavors, offering guests a culinary journey through Morocco's rich heritage.

Photos courtesy of Jason Lowrie/BFA.com

Tara Ciccone, Christina Bundrick, Brooke Morella

Jeremy Batoff, Fatema Castet, Eric Goldie

Jordan Emanuel, Bradley Kearns

Alexander Hankin, Daniel Goldstein, Meredith Marks, Georgia McCann, Ally Shapiro, Sydney Miller

Jenny Ma, Sam Tracy Kim Shui, Kate Barton

BELLA LUNA Brings Community, Fine Food and Hospitality to the Upper West Side

For over three decades, Bella Luna has remained one of the Upper West Side’s most cherished Italian restaurants. Founded in 1988 by restaurateur Turgut Balikci, Bella Luna remains a cornerstone of the local dining scene. More than just Turgut’s passion project, it’s a heartfelt way for him to connect with the neighborhood, while cultivating a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a visit to his own home.

A seasoned New York City restaurateur with a storied career spanning over four decades in the hospitality industry, Turgut launched his first Italian restaurant in the Theater District in 1984, followed by a French seafood concept on the Upper West Side in 1986. Bella Luna opened its doors in 1988 and moved to its current location, less than one block away, in 2016.

Over the years, Turgut has brought to life ten successful restaurants across emerging New York City neighborhoods, each showcasing his talent for creating warm, inviting spaces with a focus on quality and authenticity. His impact on the city’s culinary landscape includes helping to pioneer the now-iconic West Broadway Soho dining scene with the opening of Diva in 1993.

Turgut is also a passionate athlete, regularly cycling up to 70 miles on weekends. At his home in Connecticut, he cultivates fresh herbs for Bella Luna, bringing a personal touch to every dish.

In celebration of its 35th anniversary, Bella Luna has enlisted Consulting Chef Cesare De Chellis—Executive Chef at the Drumthwacket Estate, the New Jersey governor’s residence—to refresh the menu. De Chellis will stay true to the restaurant’s original vision of simple, best quality ingredients for Bella Luna’s Italian classics, and update beloved signature dishes that have long made the restaurant a neighborhood favorite.

In collaboration with Turkish-French designer Pascale Azar Chane of Azar Durand Behar Architects, Bella Luna has refreshed the interior. The space features forest green velvet banquebes, and elegant bronze sconces and table bases designed by the late sculptor Arturo Di Modica—best known for his icon Charging Bull on Wall Street. The interior also features a long hidden mural depicting Central Park in autumn, believed to date back to the 1930s, which was discovered and meticulously restored by American artist Mark Rutkowski, infusing the restaurant with a rich sense of history.

Photos courtesy of Bella Luna

Joining Bella Luna is General Manager Ilia Sejdho, who has designed a new cocktail list as well as a well-appointed mostly Italian wine list. Ilia has elevated the service with his attentiveness, friendliness and efficiency. Completing the team is Co-Owner Guray Yuksel, a lifelong friend of Turgut who brings over two decades of experience spearheading Bella Luna’s daily operations.

Italian classics are featured throughout the menu.

Salad: Highlights include Panzanella Salad—a medley of ripe tomato, cucumber, red onions, fresh buffalo mozzarella and sourdough croutons finished with aged balsamic, red wine vinaigrebe and basil oil; Sicilian Salad—fennel, radicchio, lebuce, capers, olives, parmesan, olive oil and lemon. Embrace the crunch and enjoy every bite of this salad sensation.

Antipasti: Signature Homemade Meatballs from Turgut’s family recipe are made with perfectly seasoned house-ground beef and veal, served in a savory tomato sauce, and finished with creamy ricoba cheese and fragrant fresh basil; Beef carpaccio—thinly sliced beef, lemon, capers, parmesan, accompanied with arugula and drizzled with olive oil.

Entrees: A delicate Filet of Branzino—sauteed in white wine, lemon, briny capers and fresh spinach; the classic Eggplant Parmesan (Grandma’s recipe) consists of slow-roasted eggplant, fresh basil, parsley and a rich pomodoro sauce; the La Frieda Burger is a premium 7oz beef, complemented by a zesty lemon aioli, caramelized onions and melted fontina cheese, paired with crispy Parmesan and truﬄe oil fries.

Pasta: Linguini with clams, perfectly finished with olive oil, garlic and fresh parsley; Tagliatelle Bolognese—fresh tagliatelle with a rich veal and beef ragu, delicately infused with spices from Turgut’s native Turkey, offering an unexpected depth of flavor, while remaining true to the dish’s Italian roots.

Brick-oven, thin-crust pizzas are a signature of the restaurant, showcasing bold flavors like Bella Luna, with wild mushrooms, caramelized onions, creamy fontina cheese and a luxurious drizzle of truﬄe oil; Margherita, topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe Roma tomatoes and aromatic basil, is an elegant classic; Prosciutto di Parma features slices of Prosciutto, peppery arugula and a dusting of savory Parmesan.

Specials may include slow-braised, aromatic Osso Bucco, Lamb Shank, Wild-Caught Chilean Sea Bass, or indulgent Lobster Ravioli.

Desserts: Building on the theme of classic Italian fare, Homemade Tiramisu combines espresso soaked lady fingers, coffee liquor and sweet mascarpone; Vellutata, a velvety chocolate mousse cake paired with smooth vanilla ice cream; Tartufo features a delicate cherry-almond center, surrounded by vanilla and chocolate ice cream, and encased in a rich dark chocolate shell.

With the newly acquired liquor license, Ilia Sejdho has created a specialty cocktail list. A must try is the Basil Splash with Tanqueray, using fresh ingredients like cucumber, lemon and basil, or the Watermelon Martini.

Other cocktails, like the Passionfruit Mule with Tito’s Vodka, passion fruit, lime and ginger beer, or Amaro Botanico, a refreshing mix of Tito’s, Amaro Nonino, lemon, tonic and rosemary, complement the menu. In the Smoked Old-fashioned, a choice of bourbon or rye is paired with Angostura bibers, Demerara sugar and smoked with cherry wood for a rich, aromatic twist on a cocktail classic.

The new, thoughtfully curated wine list, predominantly features Italian selections, including Tuscan Chiantis such as Super Tuscan, Brunello di Montalcino and an elegant Amarone della Valpolicella, refreshing whites like Verdicchio from Marche and Gavi di Gavi from Piedmont, and a selection of sparkling wines.

Spirits include a selection of whiskey, scotch, vodka, tequila, gin, rum and grappa, as well as an extensive collection of Amaro, which can be experienced as “Three Sips of Italy,” a tasting flight featuring a choice of three Amari.

The Brunch menu offers traditional brunch favorites such as Omelets, Eggs Florentine, French Toast, Pancakes, Avocado Toast, alongside Italian classics such as homemade Gnocchi, and unexpected pizza options, such as a savory Bacon and Egg or Nutella.

Happy Hour is offered on weekdays, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., and includes appetizers, cocktails, wines and sangrias, as well as the Amaro flight.

French doors open to al fresco dining, as well as an outdoor dining with seating for 30.

Bella Luna is perfect for family gatherings and corporate functions.

Located at 574 Columbus Avenue, on the Southwest corner of 88th Street and Columbus Avenue, New York, NY 10024.

INSTAGRAM: @bellalunanyc

FACEBOOK: Bella Luna

WEBSITE: bellalunanyc.com

PHONE NUMBER: 212-877-2267

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Sunday – Thursday 12 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 12 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Brunch Hours: Saturday & Sunday 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Indoor Dining Capacity: 74

From Shogun to Spirits: Kanazawa’s Gin Awakens

Famed for its Samurai legacy and artisanal traditions, Kanazawa is also a city shaped by water. Fed by the sacred Mount Hakusan’s spring water and cradled between two rivers, its historic center and cultural life have long flourished on an intricate network of canals that make Kanazawa one of Japan’s great “water towns.” For centuries, this pristine water nurtured sake brewing during the Samurai era—today, it inspires a new chapter: worldclass craft gin.

Leading this movement are two significant players in the industry, Alembic and Oriental Brewing —boutique distillers whose creations blend time-honored methods with modern innovation. With a dedication to incorporating select botanicals, some locally sourced, including spicebush (kuromoji) and other distinctive herbs and spices, they are reshaping the gin-making landscape one bottle at a time.

Alembic, Kanazawa’s first spirits distillery, is based in the historic port town of Ono, known for its fermented food culture. Its flagship Alembic Dry Gin Hachiban, crafted with eight botanicals including local ingredients and extra juniper berries, delivers fresh grapefruit-like citrus notes and complex layers of flavor, earning a gold medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) 2023. Pursuing innovative gin-making rooted in the local community, Alembic also crafts small-batch releases aged in Portuguese Madeira wine casks—a rare practice in Japan—with plans for original casks from Ishikawa-grown wood.

Oriental Brewing, one of Kanazawa’s leading craft beer breweries, has applied the skills and expertise gained from beer brewing to create a truly one-of-a-kind gin. Using carefully selected local ingredients such as Kanazawa yuzu, Kaga bōcha (roasted stem tea) and kuromoji, they have also upcycled sake rice bran—normally removed and discarded during sake production—through their distillation techniques, resulting in blanc, a craft gin with a subtle, natural sweetness from the rice.

Kanazawa’s rise as a premier gin destination is fueled by its enviable location between the Sea of Japan and the Japanese Alps, offering a rich variety of botanicals and access to pristine mountain water. Today, visitors and gin enthusiasts alike can enjoy enhanced experiences—meeting master distillers, joining guided tastings paired with fresh local cuisine, and sampling exclusive limited releases unavailable anywhere else in the world.

sampling exclusive limited releases unavailable anywhere else in the world.

#ishikawa

#visitishikawa

ishikawatravel.jp/en

Photos courtesy of

BEHIND THE LENS

By R. Couri Hay

Hope for Depression

Research Foundation

Annual

Luncheon Seminar

Audra McDonald, the six-time Tony Award winner, was honored at Audrey Gruss’ Hope for Depression Research Foundation’s 19th Annual Luncheon Seminar at The Plaza Hotel . Audra told me, “I realize I’m someone who suffers from depression. But I learned in the years, A, how to deal with it; B, to find my joy; and C, to realize that, like alcoholism, it’s something you wake up every day and say, ‘Yeah, that’s still something that I have to deal with,’ as opposed to saying, ‘Oh, I’m not depressed anymore.’ But to learn how to cope with that, my art gives me a lot of joy and keeps me strong.” The Hope seminar, led by longtime MC and former news anchor Chuck Scarborough, focused on “Stress and the Brain: The Link Between Stress and Depression,” with top scientists and psychiatrists addressing sciencebacked tools to protect brain health and well-being. hopefordepression.org

Cornelia Guest & Peter Marino

Friends of the Domaine De Chantilly

Johnny Depp, Jennifer Lawrence, Charlize Theron, Anya Taylor-Joy, Cornelia Guest and architect Peter Marino were all front row at designer Jonathan Anderson’s first show for Dior in Paris. The night before, Marino, was the Gala Chair of the 10th anniversary of the Friends of the Domaine De Chantilly, the historic chateau outside of Paris, originally built in 1358. Prince Amyn Aga Khan, the chairman of the organization that raises funds to restore the chateau, greeted the guests. Other New Yorkers on hand were arts patrons Marina Kellen French, Barbara Tober, Tom Knapp, Eugenia Bullock, Curtis Clarizio, Jessica Nicholls, Isabelle Marino and Miss Guest. fodchantilly.org

Y by Yoshiki × Yoshitomo

Artist Yoshitomo Nara and musician Yoshiki, both listed on Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in the World” for 2025, have announced a new wine collaboration with winemaker Robert Mondavi Jr. The “Y by Yoshiki × Yoshitomo Nara Collaboration Wine” brings together Yoshiki’s Napa Valley wine brand and Nara’s globally celebrated artwork, which will appear on the bottle’s labels. These include a painting of a puppy playing imaginary drums with two doggie bones and a mischievous monkey sitting on a duck. Nara told me, “Having a small illustration not only on the label but the cap is a unique attribute that is not often seen in wines.” This marks the first collaboration for Yoshiki since he created a clothing line with Stella McCartney in 2021. Yoshiki told me, “I am overwhelmed with emotion to be able to work on something like this with Nara. It feels like a dream.” ybyyoshiki.com

Cornelia Guest and Peter Marino

Photo courtesy of Getty

Louisa Benton and Audrey Gruss Photo courtesy of Eric Strifﬂer Photography

Yoshitomo Nara and Yoshiki

Photo courtesy of Y by Yoshiki

SOCIAL SAFARI

Angel Ball

Amy Green & Densie Rich

Jackie Siegel, the television personality best known for the Bravo show “Queen of Versailles,” which has just been turned into a Broadway musical starring Kristin Chenoweth, presented Amy Green, the founder of The Green Vision Foundation, with an award for environmental leadership at Denise Rich’s Angel Ball at Cipriani. Amy told me, “I believe everything is connected, the earth, the ocean and the energy we share, and the Angel Ball embodies that circle of purpose and compassion.” Beyoncé Knowles’ mother, Tina Knowles, was also honored at the star-studded gala. gabriellesangels.org

Herb Karlitz’s Celebrity Chefs Extravaganza

Marcus Samuelsson, Geoffrey Zakarian & Masaharu Morimoto

Ja Rule served as the referee for a putting contest between CC Sabathia and Justin Tuck. Neither of them sank the 40-foot putt, but as both balls were equidistant from the hole, Ja Rule declared it a tie. Rao’s Chef Dino Gatto dished out the prize, two big bags of his famous meatballs. The Celebrity Chefs & Friends Golf and Tennis Tournament was organized by event producer and chef guru Herb Karlitz. 120 top culinary and sports stars were on hand, including Marcus Samuelsson, Geoffrey Zakarian, “Iron Chef” Masaharu Morimoto, MLB Hall of Famer CC Sabathia, and NY Knicks draft pick Jordan Clarkson. Key sponsors included Ernst & Young LLP, Resy, Porsche Englewood, Acqua Panna, S. Pellegrino, Impossible Foods, Real Del Valle, Resorts World, Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Urbani Truﬄes. The event at the Montclair Country Club raised enough money for the beneficiary, City Harvest, to serve 1.5 million needy New Yorkers. karlitz.com

Billy Ray Cyrus & Alexis Silva

Miley Cyrus’ father, Billy Ray Cyrus, who is dating actress Elizabeth Hurley, is making time to mentor singer-songwriter Alexis Silva. The 16-year-old, who survived a life-or-death cancer scare, performed her original songs about her dramatic experience and then distributed health kits, groceries and served hot meals to the homeless alongside Pastor Michael Hall in San Bernardino, California. alexissilva.com

Gary Green and Amy Green

Photo courtesy of Getty

Alexis Silva and Robin Thicke

Photo courtesy of BFA

Herb Karlitz and Ja Rule Photo courtesy of Eric Vitale Photography

FIESTA FOREVER

By Michele Gerber Klein

In a brief interview on the night of “Fiesta” for Casita Maria’s landmark benefit, Jackie Weld Drake, its long time organizer succinctly explained, “We started as an afterschool program for elementary school children. Now, we’re proud to be able to offer services to the youth of the community all the way up through middle school. I see the students’ faces and it makes me very happy to know that I’m helping them in one way or another to lead productive lives, to give them a vision of the world beyond the three square blocks they live in. “The party has such a reputation,” said Jackie, who always chairs it with Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia. “I was fielding calls until the last minute. We raise most of our operating budget at Fiesta. That’s why I work so hard to keep it great. The night carries the afterschool programs and community outreach that Casita Maria gives to kids in the poorest congressional district in the country. I really care about those kids.” Dancing the night away to help Jackie in her mission, the diverse group of revelers included Eric Adams, Barbara Tober, members of the board of directors Martha Bograd, George Corton, Ben Rodriguez-Cubeñas, Michele Gerber-Klein, Dr. Gautam Patel, and Jean Shafiroff as well as swans Elizabeth Meigher, Lara Meiland Shaw, Katherine Boulud, Natalie Dougherty, Lizzie Asher, Jasmine Lobe, Lilian Philips, Parisi Byrd. Gallants included Michael and Jonathan Reinert Sessions, Wyatt Koch, Victor Gerasci, Frederick Anderson, Omar Hernandez, Guillermo Giammona and more.

Photos courtesy

McMullan

Michele Gerber Klein, Prince Dmitri of Yugoslavia, Sissi Fleitas Refaie, Sharon Bush

A Night of Fiesta

Jackie Weld Drake, Muffie Potter Aston, Mary Snow

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe and Jackie Weld Drake

Gilbert Saenz and Gail Heidel

Chiara Gorodesky and Tina Vidal-Duart

Olivia Tournay Flatto, Ben RodriguezCubenas, Barbara Tober

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Joseph Hernandez: The Relentless Innovator Redeﬁning Leadership in Business, Technolog� and Public Life

By Jeremy Murphy

In a world obsessed with headlines, Joseph Hernandez builds history. For more than two decades, he has moved between laboratories, trading floors and boardrooms with a singular purpose—to construct the next generation of American enterprise. A scientist turned financier, and a builder turned civic leader, Hernandez bridges discovery and deployment, capital and conscience, innovation and impact.

Born in Cuba and raised in Miami after his family fled communism, Hernandez grew up watching his father wash dishes and his mother clean homes to give their children a better life. “My father loved this country with every breath,” he recalled. “He believed America was the only place on Earth where a man could start with nothing and still build everything.” That belief became his foundation. “The American Dream isn’t an idea to me—it’s an inheritance,” he said. “This country gave my family freedom, and I’ve spent my career trying to build things worthy of that freedom.”

Photos courtesy of Joseph Hernandez

From Molecules to Markets

Hernandez began his career in biotechnology, helping shape diagnostic and therapeutic innovations that transformed modern medicine. He played a role in the early development of microarray technology, which revolutionized genetic testing and personalized medicine; the creation of the HPV diagnostic test that became the global standard for cervical cancer prevention; and a molecular test for thyroid cancer that spared countless patients from unnecessary surgery. Later, he worked on vaccine platforms for COVID-19 and influenza designed to accelerate rapid-response immunization worldwide.

These were not abstract projects—they were life-saving technologies brought from lab bench to marketplace through Hernandez’s ability to link scientific rigor with commercial execution.

He earned a B.S. in Neuroscience, an M.S. in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, and an M.B.A. in Finance and Entrepreneurship from the University of Florida. He later completed an M.S. in Epidemiology at Yale University and is pursuing an M.S. in Global Healthcare Leadership at the University of Oxford. This multidisciplinary training shaped his unique approach to connecting science and strategy.

Reinventing Capital Formation

After more than a decade in biotechnology, Hernandez turned to finance with the same mission: to build infrastructure for innovation. As the architect behind multiple Blue Water special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs), he redefined how growth companies access capital. Where others saw speculative vehicles, he saw engines of creation—tools to identify undervalued assets and align them with mission-driven investors.

Each SPAC under the Blue Water banner has targeted sectors defining the future: healthcare, artificial intelligence and clean energy. His upcoming fourth SPAC continues that legacy, focusing on firms with strong fundamentals and scalable potential.

“For me, finance is a civic act,” he explained. “Capital isn’t just money—it’s a promise that we can build something together that lasts.”

Democratizing the AI Revolution

Hernandez’s latest project, the Blue Water Horizon AI exchange-traded fund (ETF), reflects his belief that artificial intelligence is not a bubble but a new industrial revolution—one as transformative as electricity or the internet. The fund focuses on companies powering real AI infrastructure: semiconductors, data centers, robotics, and applied intelligence reshaping logistics, healthcare and defense.

His goal is inclusion. “Technology should not be the privilege of the few—it

should be the opportunity of the many,” he said. “The AI revolution will reshape everything from medicine to manufacturing, and every American deserves a stake in that future.”

Through this ETF, Hernandez aims to democratize ownership of the technologies defining the next economy—bridging Wall Street’s capital and Main Street’s aspirations.

Leadership That Lasts

Across ventures, Hernandez applies a single formula: identify inefficiency, apply structure and scale with integrity. “The headlines come and go,” he said, “but what matters is what you leave standing when they stop talking about you.”

From Boardroom to City Hall

That same discipline guided his independent campaign for Mayor of New York City, grounded in evidence, efficiency and accountability. He proposed using AI to modernize services, data analytics to reduce crime and fiscal transparency to rebuild trust. His message—competence over ideology— drew praise from civic and business leaders, including radio host Sid Rosenberg and billionaire John Catsimatidis, who saw in him a rare blend of private-sector precision and public purpose.

“Public service and business are not opposites,” Hernandez often says. “They’re both about building systems that work—for people, not politics.”

The Vision Ahead

As he brings his next SPAC and AI ETF to market, Hernandez’s mission extends beyond commerce—it is a reaffirmation of belief in the American Dream itself.

“I came here from Cuba with nothing,” he reflected. “I’ve lived what America makes possible. I’ve seen what hard work, discipline and faith in this country can build.”

To him, capitalism is not merely a system—it’s a story. A story about freedom, creativity, and the chance to build something greater than oneself. “I will always believe in America because I’ve seen what it does for those who believe in it. My father lived that dream, and I’m still building it.”

Joseph Hernandez: The Relentless Innovator.

In a world chasing trends, he builds permanence. In a time of noise, he builds meaning. And in the enduring promise of America, he builds the future.

hernandezfornyc.com

The Hatted Woman MEERA GANDHI

By Jeremy Murphy

Photos courtesy of Photo Piers Atkinson

TOWN

Meera Gandhi remembers the phone call vividly. It came from London, from the celebrated fashion photographer and professor Dr. Ram Shergill, whose work often blurs the line between art and social commentary. He was planning a conceptual shoot—something rich with history and symbolism—and he wanted her to be part of it. The project, “The Hatted Woman and Her Unhurried History in Early Modern Ballads,” drew from the writings of New York scholar Professor Elizabeth Mazzola, who explored the Hatted Woman as a timeless symbol of liberty, resilience and practical wisdom. “Ram said, ‘Meera, every time I see the work you’re doing, you remind me of that paper—you’re the modern version of her,’” Gandhi recalled with a smile.

She agreed immediately, and the two met at London’s Mayfair Hotel for the shoot. “The theme fascinated me,” Gandhi said. “It connects fashion, philosophy and history in a way that feels very relevant to women today.” Shergill, known for his portraits of royalty and cultural icons, wanted to reimagine the Hatted Woman through a modern lens—a figure at once elegant and fearless, strong and serene.

The session brought together an extraordinary team of designers, including Elizabeth Emanuel, who famously designed Princess Diana’s wedding gown. “We had some very big names who were excited to show their clothes for this shoot,” Gandhi recalled. “It became this incredible collaboration between art, intellect and couture.”

Mayfair Magazine

The images will appear in his upcoming academic paper, which examines the role of women in modern society and how archetypes like the Hatted Woman continue to resonate. The photographs will also appear in Mayfair Magazine and in publications in India and Turkey. “The editor of Mayfair, Selma Day, was actually with me the night before the shoot,” Gandhi said. “She was so excited about it. And Hello Magazine Turkey also loved the concept. A lot of people connected to it because it’s playful on the surface but very deep underneath.”

For Gandhi, the experience became much more than a fashion editorial. It became an exploration of identity, strength and endurance. “When I came back, I actually studied the original research,” she said. “I was intrigued to learn that Henri Matisse had done so many portraits inspired by the same theme. Over time, humans and environments change, but women remain the central force—keeping society stable, nurturing families and holding things together.”

She reflected on how the hat, in both historical and contemporary terms, serves as a kind of armor. “It reminds me of times when I’ve had to just buckle down and do things,” she said. “I put my hoodie on and work. My daughter, Madame Gandhi, is similar—when she needs to get things done, she ties her hair up in a top knot. The hat, the bun, the hoodie—it’s all a kind of armor. It’s symbolic of focus and resilience.”

The Giving Back Foundation

That idea of the hat as a metaphor for strength resonates deeply with Gandhi’s own work. Through The Giving Back Foundation, which she founded, Gandhi has long been an advocate for compassion, education and spiritual awareness. Her life is an ongoing intersection of philanthropy, mindfulness and service. “As women today, we juggle so much,” she said. “We handle our children’s lives, our own lives and our work. I want to help others—especially those who are distressed—find calm and focus through yoga and meditation. That’s why I’m doing Uplift New York.”

Uplift New York 2026

At the end of the London shoot, Shergill suggested they take one more image—something reflective of Gandhi’s growing role in global wellness advocacy. “He said, ‘Let’s do another yoga shot, because you’re doing Uplift New York 2026 and you’ll need a fresh picture.’ That was his way of supporting it.” The resulting photograph will be used to promote the upcoming event, which will take place on June 21, 2026, at Rumsey Playfield in Central Park.

UpliftNY26 will be a daylong celebration of yoga, meditation and mental wellness, timed to the summer solstice. Gandhi envisions it as a sanctuary of spirit, a reminder that uplifting others is the truest way to uplift ourselves. “We’re definitely doing the spiritual and mental wellness day in Central Park,” she said. “It’s something that I feel is so needed right now. The role of yoga and meditation has become crucial because there’s such an overload of information and stress. People need a way to still themselves.”

Her reflections connect centuries of women’s experience with the modern need for balance and inner peace. “In the time of the ballads, people relied more on the Bible,” she noted. “While I love the Bible and the Gita, I find that yoga and meditation are essential now. Reading them is calming, but the practice of stillness is what allows us to center ourselves amid all the noise.”

For Gandhi, the Hatted Woman is more than a character in a poem or painting—it is an enduring symbol of how women move through life with both grace and strength. The archetype’s evolution mirrors her own journey, bridging continents and cultures, uniting art, philosophy and service. Whether leading a yoga circle in Central Park or standing before Shergill’s lens in Mayfair, Gandhi embodies the same timeless qualities: independence, compassion and an unshakable sense of purpose.

“She’s swift, capable and her hat becomes a kind of armor—sealing her in, keeping her safe and guiding her forward,” wrote Professor Mazzola. Gandhi’s participation in the project brings that idea into the present moment, translating history into action. In her life, as in her portrait, the hat is not just an accessory—it is a declaration. It represents focus, dignity and resilience.

As the world anticipates UpliftNY26, the spirit of the Hatted Woman endures, reminding us that style and substance can coexist, and that the truest power lies in steadiness. Meera Gandhi has taken an image from centuries past and made it vividly alive today, embodying a message that is as relevant now as it was in the ballads of early modern England: that strength, grace and purpose are never out of fashion.

meeragandhi.com

Caroline's Couture Chopard ICE CUBE CAPSULE COLLECTION

On the occasion of New York Fashion Week, Caroline’s Couture unveiled a new capsule collection of nine silhouettes inspired by Chopard’s iconic Ice Cube collection. Born of the same creative impulse as the new Ice Cube Haute Joaillerie capsule designed by Caroline Scheufele, this couture capsule extends its sparkle and audacity. This presentation comes only a few months after the launch of the Caroline’s Couture 2025 collection at the Cannes Film Festival, marking a new milestone in the creative dialogue between Couture and Haute Joaillerie.

Since its creation, Chopard’s Ice Cube collection has embodied minimalist elegance through a unique and powerful motif. Chopard enriched its expression with Ice Cube Haute Joaillerie, reinterpreting its iconic cube with bold proportions, modular versatility and sculptural brilliance. In 2025, this creative vision continues with a second Haute Joaillerie capsule collection, this time complemented by Caroline’s Couture silhouettes, designed to interact with the jewelry pieces and enhance their brilliance.

Working alongside exceptional artisans in Como, St. Gallen and Mumbai, Caroline Scheufele sought to transpose the metallic nuances of white and

yellow gold—hallmarks of Haute Joaillerie—into Couture, while developing an innovative material with angular shapes that reflects and captures the light.

In St. Gallen, an ancient guipure lace technique using lamé threads was revisited to create small cubic squares, later enhanced with different metallic films.

Transformed into textiles in their own right, these replicas of Ice Cubes were hand-embroidered using a marquetry technique combining varied textures and finishes. They were further enriched with glass tubes, Japanese Miyuki beads and crystals, bringing a refined, shimmering dimension.

This innovative approach, developed exclusively for Caroline’s Couture, echoes the spirit of Haute Joaillerie and has given life to nine designs that appear to be molded from liquid metal, playing with contrasts and capturing the light.

carolinescouture.com

Photos courtesy of Caroline's Couture Chopard

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Robert J. Ivanhoe Greenberg Traurig, LLP

Celebrating The New York Real Estate & Construction Industries

Saturday, December 13, 2025

Gary Jacob Glenwood Management Corp.

James D. Kuhn Newmark

HONORARY CHAIR

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DINNER CHAIRS

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EXECUTIVE CHAIR

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EVENT CONTACT INFORMATION:

Shari Greenblatt 212.297.0857 | GreenblattS@njhealth.org

HONORING GLEN J. WEISS Executive Vice President Director of Office Leasing & Co-Head of Real Estate Vornado Realty Trust

Pier Sixty, Chelsea Piers, New York | 6:30p.m. | Black Tie

Establishing The Staci & Glen Weiss Fund to Safeguard Critical Pediatric Research

Peter G. Riguardi JLL

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