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Exclusive: Idris Elba and Cast Talks Beast Film

by Julian Cannon
written by Julian Cannon

The summer thriller season is coming to an end later this month when Idris Elba and Universal Pictures bring one last thriller to the big screen.

He plays one of the leading roles in the new survival thriller, Beast, directed by Baltasar Kormákur, in which he plays the role of Dr. Nate Daniels, a father who takes his two daughters to South Africa for an adventure. Eventually, the newly widowed Daniels and his daughters find themselves being hunted by a rogue lion during a safari, which leads to the newly widowed Daniels having to fight for the lives of himself and his daughters. In spite of the fact that he had intended for this trip to heal his strained relationship with his daughters, it has turned into one where he is forced to test his bond with them in a competition for survival. Iyana Halley (The Hate U Give, This is Us series) plays Daniels’ 18-year-old daughter, Meredith, and Leah Sava Jeffries (Rel series, Empire series) plays his 13-year-old, Norah.

We recently caught up with Idris Elba to talk about Beast. He was thrilled to say that he had a great time being part of the cast and to be in Africa to see the wildlife. We also talked about the stuntwork, and if he would like to see DC’s Bloodsport, Peacemaker, Black Adam, and Superman all in one film!

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Natasha Graziano Hosts a Party With Purpose at Bar Lis to Celebrate the Launch of Her New Book, Be It Until You Become It

by Parris Rose
written by Parris Rose

Best-selling author of The Action Plan, #1 female motivational speaker in the world written in Forbes Magazine, social media expert and mindset coach to a community of more than 10 million people, Natasha Graziano has created the ultimate guide to living your highest potential.

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Shutterfly Is Going Viral With Popular TikTok Stars With Latest Home Collection

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

It was only a matter of time before TikTok’s influence expanded—from the music we listen to, to the places we visit, to the weird trends we try and now that influence and creativity is coming to a home near you with a special collaboration with Shutterfly that officially launches today!

The collective is a first of its kind, limited-edition capsule collection designed and inspired by a diverse roster of four digital icons. Spanning from comedians, to entertainers and more, the roster includes influencer and viral social media sensation, Brittany Broski, entrepreneur and dating expert Serena Kerrigan, comedian and author Elsa Majimbo, and actor and digital creator Chris Olsen. The creators are paired with four Spoonflower Independent Artists, who helped bring each of their personalities and four product categories to life.

Shutterfly’s focus on expanding its custom design space will allow the brand to pivot into new spaces while tapping into current industry trends and evolving the way consumers shop. The Collective celebrates the addition of 4,000 thousand new artist-sourced designs available in home decor and gifting items on the Shutterfly platform.

The Shutterfly Collective will be available for purchase beginning today through August 23, 2022 on www.Shutterfly.com and will feature exclusive, one-of-a-kind designs on coffee mugs, blankets, journals and pillows ranging in retail price between $16.99  and $79.98.

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New must-visit French restaurant Maison Close opens in SoHo today

by Tony Bowles
written by Tony Bowles

If you are looking for a new downtown restaurant to enjoy with your friends or even a solo date (treat yourself) then you are in luck! Offering a sanctuary for celebration and luxury that blends the greatest aspects of New York and French culture, Maison Close officially opens today in the heart of Manhattan with approachable French cuisine, elevated beverages, and a celebratory atmosphere that makes both residents and visitors feel at home.

Maison Close’s unparalleled vibe dining experience features a menu of sophisticated, yet accessible French dishes developed by Executive Chef Geoffrey Lechantoux (Louis XV in Monaco, Trianon Palace in Versailles, Plaza Athénée in Paris, Le Jules Verne in Paris and Benoit in New York) including: 

  • Belle Sole Meunière pan seared with a butter foam  
  • Cote de Boeuf served with Choron and Peppercorn sauce  
  • Crepe Suzette with Grand Marnier flambee  
  • Other carefully curated dishes include Tartare de Boeuf au Couteau, Artichauts à la Barigoule and La Grande Tour featuring Beausoleil oysters, Australian shrimps, whole Maine lobster, king crab legs and caviar. 

Guests can also unwind at the restaurant’s luxurious bar featuring expertly crafted cocktails such as Madame Claude with Grey Goose Poire Ginger, lemon and cucumber juice, and rose seltzer, L’Amour en Cage with Remy Martin V, golden berries, lemon juice, sugarcane and egg white, and La Turlutte with Bombay Sapphire Gin, fresh raspberries, meadowsweet cordial, lemon juice, and Moët & Chandon Imperial Champagne.
“When you enter Maison Close, it feels as though you’ve entered the dining room of your oldest friend,” says Chef Lechantoux. “Our menu modernizes the idea of traditional French dining, and I’m excited to bring a fresh take on this classic cuisine to New York City.” 
Maison Close is located at 15 Watts Street New York, NY 10013. The restaurant will be open Tuesday-Saturday from 11AM – Midnight, and Sunday from 11AM – 7PM. Beginning August 6th, brunch will be served Tuesday-Saturday from 11AM – 6PM and Sunday from 11AM-7PM. Dinner service will begin at 6PM Tuesday-Friday and 7:30PM on Saturday until closing. 

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Barbara Tober Bestowed with Inaugural Millbrook Humanitarian Award by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation

by Benjamin Schmidt
written by Benjamin Schmidt

Now in its seventh year, Play for P.I.N.K. Millbrook is all but a tradition in this tight-knit community. Millbrook, located some two hours from New York City, is a serene seasonal escape noted for its undulating hilly terrain and longtime ties to equestrian life. It also happens to be where the Play for P.I.N.K. organization has laid roots, raises funds for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation through sporting and lifestyle events.

To speed advances in breast cancer detection, treatment and survivorship, Play for P.I.N.K. (Prevention, Immediate diagnosis, New technology, Knowledge) supports thousands of volunteers nationwide as they raise funds for research. Their efforts raise $4 million annually, and 100% of that goes to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, founded by Evelyn Lauder of The Estée Lauder Companies in 1993.

PINE PLAINS, NY – JULY 8: Marion de Vogel, Larry Graev and Emma Sweeney attend BCRF Millbrook “Humanitarian Award” to Mrs. Barbara Tober at Mashomack Fish & Game Preserve on July 8, 2022 in Pine Plains, NY. (Photo by Patrick McMullan/PMC)

For the Play for P.I.N.K. Millbrook event, supporters arrived at the bucolic Mashomack Fish & Game Preserve; the backdrop of the event being the impressionistic Halcyon Lake and spring green and pink flowers decorating the luncheon tables for a standing room-only audience. The co-chairs of this event were Cathy Franklin, Karen Klopp, Beth Ledy, and Alexandra Traber McNamara.

Myra Biblowit, the longtime President and CEO of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation conveyed the fact that Evelyn Lauder’s vision of an organization has stood the test of time. The organic development of Play For P.I.N.K. is evidence of that. “Evelyn would be overjoyed to see you all here today.” 

Lorna Graev had the honor of presenting the inaugural Millbrook Humanitarian Award to the illustrious Barbara Tober, longtime editor of Brides Magazine, proud Millbrook resident, and supporter a vast range of charitable organizations. Loran Graev spoke on the intent of the award saying, “She and her beloved husband Donald have lived a life of philanthropy that have impacted so many people.”

PINE PLAINS, NY – JULY 8: Will Eckstein, Vera Farmiga and Alex Eckstein attend BCRF Millbrook “Humanitarian Award” to Mrs. Barbara Tober at Mashomack Fish & Game Preserve on July 8, 2022 in Pine Plains, NY. (Photo by Patrick McMullan/PMC) *** Local Caption *** Will Eckstein;Vera Farmiga;Alex Eckstein

In a letter, Leonard Lauder praised Mrs. Tober: “You have helped so many people through your impactful philanthropy. Where there is art and design, there is you, Barbara. Where there is fashion, there is you, Barbara. Where there is a zest for life, there is you, Barbara. Where there is Barbara, there is hope for a better world. I can think of no individual more deserving of this award. Barbara dear, you are a true humanitarian, and I am humbled by your friendship.”

Guests at the luncheon were able to take home a small token in the form of a series of “Thoughts to Live By”, written by Barbara herself. 

  • Surround yourself with Beauty  
  • Laugh first, Problems are meant to be solved  
  • Open your eyes, then your Heart to new ideas  
  • Stay with the Happy People  
  • Help those who aren’t  
  • Nurture your inner child; Fun is healthy  
  • Inspire those around you  
  • Do something Constructive every day  
  • Accept that Challenges are “growing pains”  
  • Take charge of your own Health  
  • Be responsible for Yourself  

PINE PLAINS, NY – JULY 8: Meghan Klopp, Karen Klopp, Nichola Gray, Joyann King and Caroline Merison attend BCRF Millbrook “Humanitarian Award” to Mrs. Barbara Tober at Mashomack Fish & Game Preserve on July 8, 2022 in Pine Plains, NY. (Photo by Patrick McMullan/PMC/PMC)

Barbara was greeted with a standing ovation as she received the inaugural Millbrook Humanitarian Award. She closed the luncheon with a reflection on the progress made as an organization. “There are thousands of women proudly walking forward because of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. YOU are all Philanthropists and should be proud of YOUR efforts to make this disease disappear!”

Learn more about Play for P.I.N.K. here. Learn more about the Breast Cancer Research Foundation here.

 

 
 

 

 

 

  

 

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American Express Gold Card and Resy Host a Culinary Carnival of Epic Proportions

by Jonathan Tolliver
written by Jonathan Tolliver

 

American Express Gold Card x Resy Present: The Boardwalk: A waterfront experience at the Santa Monica Pier, featuring games, Gold Card partners & perks, and boardwalk fare by award-winning L.A. chefs on Saturday, July 9, 2022 in Los Angeles. (Mark Von Holden/AP Images for American Express)

The American Express Gold Card and Resy took over the Santa Monica Pier for a culinary walk to remember. This was described as a ‘waterfront experience featuring games, Gold Card partners & perks, and boardwalk fare by award-winning L.A. chefs,’ and I’d say that just about covers it! 

The atmosphere was immediately electric, with smiling, wig-wearing people on stilts vogueing at the entrance. Just beyond them was a half-pipe featuring fearless young skaters doing incredible tricks. The second I laid eyes on all of em I knew I was about to have the time of my life.

I grabbed a lil bit of wine and made my way to Hotville Chicken, which lived up to its namesake and served up delectable and spicy chicken taquitos. What an absolute delicious start to this night; they were impeccably seasoned and had a perfectly balanced kick. 

Naturally I made my over to Shakeshack for a Shackburger, one of the most delectable burgers I’ve ever laid eyes on. It was no frills, hearty and cooked to perfection. But like, duh, we all know how Shakeshack rolls. 

Photo by Ron Clark

Wine break! I had a few of those. Don’t worry, I literally don’t know how to drive. God bless uber, and god bless our purveyor, Wine.com.

After my second pinot grio, I made my way to Cobi’s for some incredibly fresh and fulfilling Banh Tran Trang. They were more than up to the challenge of serving this dish in portable, manageable portions, packing a wealth of flavor into small, sturdy bowls. 

Photo by Ron Clark

Next I hit the Milk Bar dunk tank. That’s right, the dunk tank. My wonderful friend who took all the photos you see in this article also volunteered to be dunked. It only took me one toss to send him plunging into the depths. We were then blessed with Cheesecake Factory gift cards. He’s an American hero. 

Shoutout to Milk Bar’s Cereal Milk, which was incredibly refreshing between entrees. A tasty, sweet contrast to the savory offerings I was tearing through. 

One of the highlights of the event was Angler’s Lobster Roll, which looked and tasted like a million bucks. The lobster was so succulent and tender I could’ve cried. 

Photo by Ron Clark

Guelaguetza’s Ceviche Tostadas were also a hit, so light and gently piquant. I could eat them every damn day. 

Photo by Ron Clark

Every friend I have on this planet has been telling me to try Majordōmo, and I finally got my shot by sampling their Smoked Pork Butt Sandwich. They offered a sublime and bold rendering of this classic offering. Never have my DMs been blown up so much by a picture of a sandwich. 

Wine break! This, sadly, was the end of my culinary journey. I snuck in some mini-golf before the event ended, and was given a pity Cheesecake Factory gift card after I failed to make a single putt. I did appreciate that, it did soothe the burn. 

What an incredible day. I truly can’t wait for round 2. There will be a round 2, right??? 

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