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Naomi Pandolfi

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The Red Bull SoundClash Experience Detroit Style

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

Babyface Ray performs at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160448 // Usage for editorial use only //

We all know that Red Bull commercial… ‘Red Bull gives you wings.’ That priceless nectar of the gods that brings you a jolt of pure energy, even if you’re on a redeye… Even if you’ve had an hour of sleep… Even if the baby cried all night… Red Bull gives you wings. But something else you may not know is that Red Bull hosts a staggering variety of exhilarating and heart-pounding live events all across America, from the big mountain freeriding of Red Bull Rampage, to the dance battles of Red Bull BC One, to Red Bull SoundClash, an epic musical battle between two artists, and more. Red Bull is definitely hosting the next thrilling experience near you.

If you happen to collaborate with Red Bull on one of these events, you’ll be treated to a unique, immersive press trip experience. I attended the press trip for Red Bull’s first Detroit-based SoundClash, and let me just tell you, they rolled out the red carpet…

Assemble Sound Studios
Assemble Sound Studios
Assemble Sound Studios

I have to mention, the press trip is all-inclusive; that includes transportation, housing, and food. But on top of all that, Red Bull dazzles with an itinerary of themed experiences that make the trip memorable. First, we went to Assemble Sound Studios and heard the amazing story of the conception of this impactful artist greenhouse. This incredible team is essentially ‘growing’ some of the top up-and-coming grassroots artists. With their student residency, they provide support, opportunity, and mentorship.

Chevrolet Caprice Classic
Rollercade Detroit
Ultimate Strawberry at French For Sweet

As we left Assembly Sound studios, a motorcade of decked out restored vintage cars arrived to transport us to our next adventure. They were beautiful and lovingly restored. I got to ride with @welderonwheels, a phenomenal vehicle restoration artist who regaled me with tales of D-Town while in his Chevrolet Caprice Classic on our way to Rollercade Detroit, a delightful retro roller rink with Instagramable graffiti art all along the side. After a rousing roll under a disco ball lit rink, we were greeted by two food trucks, one featuring delicious Mediterranean-American fusion food, and the other was French For Sweet, a mobile dessert parlor that made my childhood dream come true with a phenomenal ‘Ultimate Strawberry.’ After that, I was in a food coma, and thankfully, that was the end of our night.

Caramel Apple Mimosa at Babo Detroit
Detroit Art Institute
Creamy Rock Shrimp at PAO Detroit

The next morning took us to brunch at the gourmet diner Babo Detroit, putting a bougie twist on all the classic diner favorites, after which we headed to the Detroit Art Institute for the exquisite ‘Van Gogh in America’ exhibit. When dinner rolled around, we found ourselves at PAO Detroit, one of Detroit’s premier supper club experiences where we enjoyed the ambiance and the delicious Asian fusion menu.

Larry June performs at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160431 // Usage for editorial use only //
Babyface Ray performs at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Joe Gall / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160216 // Usage for editorial use only //

Then it was time for the main event… Red Bull SoundClash Detroit: Babyface Ray vs. Larry June. (You can read more about that here.) After an electrifying musical battle in the VIP section (with an open bar!), it was time to head back home and look forward to next year’s SoundClash. If you’re interested in experiencing the Red Bull SoundClash firsthand, you can find out more here, and for an inside look, check out our IG reel.

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EntertainmentEventsMusicThe LatestUncategorized

Detroit’s First-Ever Red Bull SoundClash Electrifies

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

Larry June and Babyface Ray perform together at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160457 // Usage for editorial use only //

On October 17, 2022, Red Bull SoundClash kicked off a trio of national concerts with an electrifying clash of sounds at the first-ever Detroit SoundClash. This epic musical event pitted Detroit native Babyface Ray against the Sunshine State’s citrus-loving Larry June in a charged musical battle.

Attendees wait in line outside of the venue at RedBull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Sal Rodriguez / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160381 // Usage for editorial use only //

Red Bull SoundClash is a long-running lineup of nationwide concerts that feature two artists on two stages as they compete head-to-head in a music battle. Originally inspired by the culture of competing sound systems originating in Kingston, Jamaica, during the 1950s, Red Bull SoundClash was born to break the mold of traditional dance hall and reggae-focused music battles.

MC calls on the next performer at RedBull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Sal Rodriguez / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160372 // Usage for editorial use only //
Attendees enjoy the show at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160465 // Usage for editorial use only //
Attendees enjoy the show at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160442 // Usage for editorial use only //
Babyface Ray performs at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Joe Gall / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160197 // Usage for editorial use only //
Larry June performs at RedBull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Sal Rodriguez / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160396 // Usage for editorial use only //
Attendees enjoy the show at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022

A converted warehouse hosted the sold-out clash with a backdrop of industrial grit. Outfitted with two stages on opposite ends, the massive event space allowed the competitors to literally ‘face-off’ while performing. The evening’s host, TayCrispyy, kept the party pumping; a livewire enhancing the already electrifying performance.

Larry June performs with Payroll Giovanni at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160467 // Usage for editorial use only //
Larry June performs with Slum Village at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160472 // Usage for editorial use only //
Larry June performs with Curren$y at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160425 // Usage for editorial use only //

Special guests showed up in honor of both artists. On Ray’s side was Baby Money, Lucki, Icewear Vezzo, and Landstrip Chip, while June had the support of Motor City icons Slum Village, Payroll Giovanni, Boldy James, and Curren$y.

Larry June performs at Red Bull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Jake Mulka / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160458 // Usage for editorial use only //

Ray and June next take on San Francisco in a sold-out show on 11/3 where their vocals will clash once more. The final round takes place in Houston on 11/10, where blues-rock performer Gary Clark Jr. goes head-to-head with rap legend Paul Wall in a showdown that explores Southern sounds. If you’re interested in experiencing the Red Bull SoundClash firsthand, you can find out more here.

Attendees at RedBull SoundClash in Detroit, MI, USA on October 15, 2022 // Sal Rodriguez / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202210160394 // Usage for editorial use only //

Since it began in 2006, Red Bull SoundClash has worked to bring top talent across mainstream and underground music to create regionally relevant shows that honor the artists’ local communities and heritage. Personally, this is an immersive musical experience that I’m glad I got to be a part of, and I would highly recommend it to anyone. For an inside look, check out our IG reel here.

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EventsEventsLifestyleThe Latest

West Coast Lifestyle Media Features the Latest and Greatest!

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

On Thursday, October 6, 2022, West Coast Lifestyle Media hosted an event in the luxurious Starview Ballroom at the Sheraton Universal Hotel in Universal City, California. The event showcased some of the latest and greatest product launches from well-known brands and more.

Invited guests were treated to a delicious spread of food, along with a generous Visa Gift Card as a ‘thank you’ for attending.

The fabulous showcase featured spotlight brands including Brita, Clorox, Hamilton Beach, Five Below, American Greetings, Bowflex, roomLift, Mary’s Gone Crackers, Dyper, Califia Farms, Barry & Jason Games, Thinkwrite, Moen, Blue Planet Eco Eyewear, True North Energy Seltzer, Restored Minds Anxiety Program, OWC, and others.

We had the opportunity to get an up-close-and-personal look at some of the best innovative products like Clorox’s new ‘smart’ air purifiers, which work in sync with your smart home devices as well as some base models (for those who aren’t into the idea of having a smart home but still want their air free of harmful irritants).

Staying hydrated is also important, especially in sunny California, and Brita’s new freestanding countertop filtered water dispenser is just the thing to keep your water cup topped off throughout the day.

Califia Farms’ new dairy-free creamer is not only delicious but also a great option for those looking to eliminate dairy from their diet.

ThinkWrite Headphones
ThinkWrite Headphones
ThinkWrite Headset
ThinkWrite Headphones
ThinkWrite Headset

ThinkWrite’s headphones and headsets are super durable; the perfect option for long wear during meetings or online classes. The brand prides itself on making excellent audio accessible to everyone at an affordable price. I recently used the headphones on a 25-hour international flight, and thanks to the comfortable design, I was able to watch videos and listen to music for hours on end without any discomfort at all.

Also, Dyper is doing its best to eradicate the current state of traditional diaper waste. In their usual disposable form, diapers take over 500 years to break down, creating more toxic emissions than the earth can handle. Dyper make it a bit easier for us to do our part with their compostable wipes and diapers, drastically lowering your carbon footprint. These break down in as little as 14 weeks, and so far, the brand has diverted over 10 million pounds of diapers from ending up in landfills.

Head on over to our Instagram and check out these brands and their products in our reel here. Be sure to follow the brands for more info, and keep an eye out for these incredible products!

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EventsUncategorized

SKYBAR’S NIGHT MARKET

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

On Thursday, July 21, 2022, Skybar’s Summer Nights Night Market made its return at Mondrian Los Angeles. Guests were treated to a market featuring all the summertime essentials: sunglasses, hats, jewelry, swimwear, and more. Additional installments included a beauty bar and tarot readings. Bites by Chickies Hot Chicken were available, along with cocktail specials poolside. The musical vibes for the night featured live DJ sets. Besides Chickies Hot Chicken, participating vendors also included The Good Witch, LA Tarot Readings, York and Angel Jewelry, Leo West Ear Piercing, JDS Swim, Bitty Love, Eco Pop Marketplace, Crop Top Chuy, _Droppin Jewels_, L. A. G. Vintage, Body Sculpting by Shapetress, BEAUTY BAR + CHAIR MASSAGE, and Kin Amora Moroccan Made Clothing.

Skybar’s next night market will be “In Dust We Trust,” a Burning Man-themed night market taking place on Thursday, August 18.

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EventsLifestyleThe LatestUncategorized

Cocktails, Comedy, and Comfort: Mama Shelter’s Intimate Rooftop Lounge

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

Looking for an amazing new place to take friends, dates, or yourself? I found just the place! Mama Shelter is the freshest rooftop lounge and bar to hit downtown Hollywood. The venue hosts world-class comics from Can’t Even Comedy every Tuesday and Thursday night on their luxurious rooftop bar. For how much? FREE.

Come and unwind on the rooftop, lined with fun, bright colors and stunning tropical plants that scream excitement everywhere you look. Every moment turns into an instant IG-worthy snapshot, thanks to the incredible 360-degree views overlooking everything from downtown to the iconic Hollywood sign.

The rooftop really does have it all. Come down and try one of the insane cocktail libations from their full bar and highly skilled bartenders. Not only for nightlife, Mama Shelter knows how important maintaining a healthy, organic diet is. Their menu is home to plenty of green options and classic favorites, from house-made burgers to intoxicatingly refreshing guacamole.

But much more than a rooftop lounge, Mama’s got it all going on. It’s also a living and meeting space, providing an urban refuge that is beautiful and modern for all. There are 70 rooms available, designed by Thierry Gagain, each a cozy haven with a king-size bed decked out in five-star linen.

Can’t Even Comedy is an LA-based stand up comedy company created by husband and wife team Maxwell and Caitlin Benson. Mama Shelter currently hosts them for a biweekly residence. The company’s overarching mission is to provide accessible pathways to new up-and-coming talent and break the mold of traditional comedy venues, bringing guests an elevated luxury experience with food, beverages, and an environment to match.

Also, fun fact, Can’t Even Comedy brings along three pets to the rooftop, all of which are up for adoption from Annenberg Pet Space. The adoption center adopts all pets out at a flat $100, and the shelter pays for all health care needs of the pets.

Come on down and catch some of the latest and greatest comedy sets at Mama Shelter. Seating is first-come, first-serve, so plan to arrive no later than 6:30 PM for the best seats in the house. And remember, Mama takes care of everything. Peep the deets below.

When: Every Tuesday and Thursday

Where: Mama Shelter Hotel at 6500 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Parking: Street parking available but Uber recommended

6 PM: Doors open and DJ set

7 PM: Comedy show

8 PM: DJ set until close

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EntertainmentThe LatestTV

‘Hacks’ Stars Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder Shine at Season Premiere

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

Credit: HBO Max

An exclusive premiere for season two of HBO Max’s Hacks took place at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles, California, on May 9, 2022, followed by a luxurious invite-only bash at the Sunset Tower Hotel.

The red carpet was rolled out for celebrity guests including series stars Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, and Carl Clemons-Hopkins, along with notable supporting cast members Rose Abdoo, Mark Indelicato, Meg Stalter, Angela E. Gibbs, Luenell, Johnny Sibilly, Ming-Na Wen, and more. We had the chance to catch up with some of the stars on the carpet – check it out here.

Special celebrity guests showing their support at the premiere included D’Arcy Carden, Idara Victor, Kate Flannery, Nasim Pedrad, Nicole Byer, Reggie Watts, Terrence Terrell, Ashley Nicole Black, Benito Skinner, and others.

Season two of the three-time Emmy-winning series features even more of a star-studded lineup than the groundbreaking inaugural season. New additions to the cast include Oscar nominee and Emmy winner Laurie Metcalf, comedy icon Margaret Cho, Martha Kelly (Euphoria), and Ming-Na Wen (The Book of Boba Fett).

In the series, Jean Smart plays Deborah Vance, a legendary stand-up comedian, whose career falls into a downward spiral after the closing of her long-standing Vegas show. Desperate to regain popularity, she hires up-and-coming comedy writer Ava Daniels, who had been fired from her last gig due to insensitive tweets. This season has the unlikely pair work together while on a cross-country roadtrip tour to workshop Deborah’s new set, with no lack of clever theatrics along the way.

Hacks is streaming exclusively on HBO Max. The first two episodes of the new season have already dropped as of May 12, and each Thursday, two episodes will be released until the finale on June 2. Be sure to check it out!

 

 

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EntertainmentThe LatestTV

American Song Contest Semi-Finalists Leave It All on the Stage

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

On Monday, May 2, 2022, a red carpet took place in Universal City, California, for the last remaining 11 semi-finalists who performed on the all-live music competition series, American Song Contest. These artists came back to the stage with a next-level performance of their original song.

American Song Contest is a new music competition series that features 56 artists to represent all 50 states, five US territories, and our nation’s capital. Spanning from undiscovered talent, to rising stars, to legendary icons, the artists are competing against one another to win the country’s vote for the best original hit song. Each week, these artists (solo, duo, group, or band) take the stage to deliver a broad diversity across styles and genres. America has the chance to cast their vote via the NBC App and TikTok.

We had a chance to speak with the 11 semi-finalists from the Semi-Finals, Part Two:

  • Broderick Jones from Kansas, a singer/songwriter known for his smooth vocals and gravitating stage performances
  • Chloe Fredericks from North Dakota, powerhouse vocalist who draws inspiration from Patsy Cline and other country legends
  • Christian Pagán from Puerto Rico, a singer, songwriter, musician, and actor known for his win on Idol Puerto Rico
  • ENISA from New York, a singer whose distinctive cover versions earned her millions of views and critical acclaim
  • Grant Knoche from Texas, known for his synth-driven, deep bass, and intimate pop songs, and most recently called ‘One of today’s finest rising pop stars’ by Ones to Watch
  • John Morgan from North Carolina, a singer with a style defined by melodic grit and a craftsman approach to songwriting
  • Michael Bolton from Connecticut, a Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter who has sold more than 65 million records globally and continues to tour the world
  • Stela Cole from Georgia, a rising star with millions of monthly listeners already and fast-growing
  • Sweet Taboo from California, a Latinx group with a distinct sound mixture of R&B, hip-hop, and pop with a Latin flair
  • Tenelle from American Samoa, a Grammy Award-nominated and Billboard-charted artist
  • Tyler Braden from Tennessee, an artist with more than 70 million streams to his name and a growing list of major tour credits

Learn all you should know about the states and territories these artists are representing as they compete for this season’s ‘Best Original Song’ in our exclusive video below.

American Song Contest is brought to you from the producers of Eurovision Song Contest and The Voice, as well as hosts Snoop Dogg and Kelly Clarkson. The ultimate ‘Grand Final’ for season one will air on Monday, May 9, on NBC, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. Only one state or territory will emerge victorious. Is it you? Is it me? Who will it be, who will it be?

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EventsLifestyleThe Latest

Hooray for Rosé: McConnell’s x Avaline’s Limited Edition Flavor Collab + Review

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams of Santa Barbara, California, is back again with another innovative flavor combination, Avaline Rosé and Boysenberry Milk Jam. This time, the boutique ice cream brand has partnered with Avaline, a luxury clean wine brand, to bring your favorite frozen treat to you – but with a rosé twist.

Who doesn’t love rosé? Some say it’s an acquired taste. McConnell’s is known for making its own flavors from scratch, using only the finest local, sustainable, and organic ingredients. It’s no wonder that they would choose to create a daring flavor balance such as this.

Avaline Rosé is a clean, vegan-friendly wine by Cameron Diaz and Katherine Power, offering a light, fresh mouthfeel with flavors of melon and zest to bring the wine’s signature light pink hues to life. This fruit-forward French wine is crafted with organic grapes and is free of unnecessary inclusions like sugars, colors, and concentrates.

Michael Palmer, CEO of McConnell’s, had this to say about the latest flavor collab,

“At McConnell’s, we have always embraced an ethos of sustainability, transparency, and using only the finest whole ingredients in our ice creams, so we are thrilled to collaborate with Avaline, a company that embodies these same values. Made with Avaline’s clean, natural rosé blended into a delicious preserve, our newest velvety, decadent flavor, Avaline Rosé and Boysenberry Milk Jam, is one of our best yet.”

Sounds yummy! Lucky for me, we were invited to have a first look at this delectable, one-of-a-kind ice cream. I was thrilled to have the chance to do my own little taste test. Here are my thoughts on this exclusive flavor:

“The blend of the tart, sweet, and creamy created a divine flavor trio that makes this pint a truly refreshing, must-try summertime treat.”

As of May 6, 2022, this exclusive ice cream flavor collaboration is available for purchase online by the pint (nationwide shipping) and also at any McConnell’s scoop shops along the West Coast (Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo). Keep in mind, this is a limited edition collaboration, and this delightful flavor is expected to sell out quickly – so if you want to experience the undeniable deliciousness, act fast! Pints are available for $12 online and $11.50 in scoop shops.

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George Lopez with The Marijuana Factory
EventsLifestyleThe Latest

Doris Bergman’s Fifth Annual ‘Gratitude Lounge’ Wows Celebrity Guests at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

by Naomi Pandolfi
written by Naomi Pandolfi

George Lopez with The Marijuana Factory

On Monday, May 2, 2022, Doris Bergman hosted the fifth annual ‘Gratitude Lounge,’ alongside Sway Premium Audio, Twisted Silver, and Robosen. Celebrity guests teed off at the sold-out 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic, benefiting The George Lopez Foundation. The elite event was held at one of Toluca Lake’s most prestigious golf clubs.

Bergman’s fabulous showcase presented celebrity guests with a stunning array of luxury gifts, including VIP gift bags by Twisted Silver, fashion for him and her, the finest in beauty, skin, and men’s grooming, exotic chocolate delights, delicious soy candles, innovative cannabis topical and edible products, stunning jewelry collections, hearty spirits, unique electronics, gourmet sweets, and much more.

Pink's Hot Dogs

Pink’s Hot Dogs at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Guests were given the chance to try delicious bites, snacks, and sips from The Pickle Juice Company, Happy Grub, Brownie Brittle, SUJA Organic, Tampico, Whisp’s Cheese Snacks, Essentia Water, Liquid Death, True Made Foods, Eastern Standard Provisions, Unisoy Jerky, and others.

The Bearded Sailor

The Bearded Sailor at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Robosen

Robosen at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Mayan Lopez with Kings Brewing Co.

Mayan Lopez with Kings Brewing Co. at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Milena LA

Milena LA at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Eugenia Kuzmina with Sub-Zero Ice Cream

VIP Sponsor Sub-Zero Ice Cream with Eugenia Kuzmina at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Other spotlight gifts included natural cannabis odor removers from Cannabolish, beard oil from The Bearded Sailor, skincare from Live P.S. Skincare and Olita Skin Care, cannabis edible products from The Marijuana Factory, dissolvable supplements from Frunutta, alcohol-infused K-Cups from Cask & Kettle, organic tequila from Dulce Vida, natural vegan candles from Milena LA, craft beer from Kings Brewing Co., and groundbreaking audio and video equipment from Movo.

Andy Garcia with The Bearded Sailor

VIP Sponsor The Bearded Sailor with Andy Garcia at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Mayan Lopez with Twisted Silver

Presenting Sponsor Twisted Silver with Mayan Lopez at the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

Joe Mantegna with Sway Audio

Presenting Sponsor Sway Audio with Joe Mantegna for the 15th Annual George Lopez Celebrity Golf Classic

The George Lopez Foundation’s mission is to create positive, permanent change for underprivileged children, adults, and military families confronting challenges in education and health, as well as increasing community awareness about kidney disease and organ donation.

Many celebrities were in attendance and treated to the best of the best, including founder George Lopez, Joe Mantegna, Mayan Lopez, Sugar Ray Leonard, Andy Garcia, Caroline Rhea, Eugenia Kuzmina, and Mr. Craig Scime, ‘The Ultimate DJ,’ among many others.

Photos from the event are courtesy of photographer Vivien Killilea Best.

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