Author Archives: Chuck Gregory

"Roar for a Cure" Carnival & Family Fun Day

 The Max Cure Foundation — a non-profit organization whose mission is to fund pediatric cancer causes — announced today its first charity benefit, the first annual "Roar for a Cure" Carnival and family fun day, to take place on Saturday, August 22, from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. (rain date: Sunday, August 23) on the grounds of the East Hampton Indoor Tennis Club, 175 Daniels Hole Road, East Hampton, N.Y. The outdoor event will have fun-filled activities for adults and kids of all ages. Highlights include: games; inflatables from https://jumpersnrentals.com/phoenix/; prizes; food and beverages; raffles; auctions; face painting; balloon artists; gift bags; celebrity guests (to be announced); a live performance by pop music sensation Push Play; and more.

Push Play, one of the hottest new music groups in the area who consistently pack venues, will preview songs from "Found," their forthcoming album.

Tickets to the "Roar for a Cure" Carnival may be purchased in advance through The Max Cure Foundation website (www.maxcurefoundation.org) or by phone: 631-949-4160. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Max Cure Fund For Pediatric Cancer Research at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, dedicated to researching pediatric cancers, improving treatments and finding cures that will save children's lives; The T.J. Martell Foundation, for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS research; and Katy's Courage Fund, which financially assists in the care of 10-year-old Katy Stewart from Sag Harbor, N.Y., as she and her family battle her rare form of liver cancer.

"On behalf of my son Max, my family and The Max Cure Foundation, we are thrilled to announce our first benefit event, the 'Roar for a Cure' Carnival and family fun day," said David Plotkin, president of The Max Cure Foundation. "It is certain to be an exciting and memorable afternoon that will be benefiting three very worthwhile causes."

A "Family Package" admits a family of four for $200; adult tickets are $100 each. The admission price includes unlimited food and drinks, all carnival activities, the Push Play concert and parking. A significant portion of the ticket price and event contributions will be tax deductible. Additional information about the event is available at The Max Cure Foundation website (www.maxcurefoundation.org).

The "Roar for a Cure" Carnival brings together the efforts of two New York-area families valiantly fighting pediatric cancer, the Plotkins and the Stewarts. Six-year-old Max Plotkin, from Manhattan and Amagansett, is the inspiration behind both The Max Cure Foundation and The Max Cure Fund. Diagnosed with an extremely rare form of B-cell Lymphoma two years ago, Max continues to hold his cancer at bay with strength beyond his years. Ten-year-old Katy Stewart, from Sag Harbor, learned that she has a rare and potentially lethal form of liver cancer earlier this year. Both children are receiving care at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

ABOUT THE MAX CURE FOUNDATION

The Max Cure Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2008 whose mission is to fund pediatric cancer causes. The Foundation was established by the Plotkin family in honor of Maxwell Grant Plotkin, who, in May 2007 at age four, was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of B-cell Lymphoma and continues to bravely fight his disease and inspire others to rise above adversity. For more information about The Max Cure Foundation, go to: www.maxcurefoundation.org.

ABOUT THE MAX CURE FUND FOR PEDIATRIC CANCER RESEARCH

The Max Cure Fund For Pediatric Cancer Research, at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) in New York City, is dedicated to researching pediatric cancers, improving treatments and finding cures that will save children's lives. The primary mission of The Max Cure Fund is to raise $5 million to underwrite the establishment of a research laboratory at MSKCC in the Department of Pediatrics. The lab will be devoted to researching, treating and curing childhood cancers. The Max Cure Fund was established in June 2007 by the Plotkin family, in honor of Maxwell Grant Plotkin, who was diagnosed with cancer on May 2, 2007 — one day before his fourth birthday. Eight days later, they learned Max's cancer was an extremely rare form of B-Cell Lymphoma. It is every parent's worst nightmare. Max's cancer was so rare that doctors at MSKCC, one of the premier cancer treatment facilities in the world, had never seen it before. To complicate matters, it wasn't a straight-forward case. The cancer had spread and the oncologists were blunt. Without the proper immediate treatment, the consequences would be devastating. Without delay, Max started a two-year protocol of intense chemotherapy at MSKCC, where he continues in its care and where Max's family founded The Max Cure Fund. The Max Cure Fund For Pediatric Cancer Research has already raised hundreds of thousands of dollars towards its goal and has been honored by organizations including Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and The New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. For more information about The Max Cure Fund, visit: www.maxcurefund.org.

ABOUT MEMORIAL SLOAN-KETTERING CANCER CENTER

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center is the world's oldest and largest private institution devoted to prevention, patient care, research and education in cancer. Its scientists and clinicians generate innovative approaches to better understand, diagnose and treat cancer. Its specialists are leaders in biomedical research and in translating the latest research to advance the standard of cancer care worldwide. For more information, go to: www.mskcc.org.

ABOUT KATY'S COURAGE FUND

Katy Stewart is ten years old and lives with her family in Sag Harbor, N.Y. She is the daughter of two Eastern Long Island educators — Jim, a teacher and wrestling, soccer and tennis coach at East Hampton High School; and Brigid, assistant principal at Montauk Public School. Their lives were forever changed on the night of April 3, 2009, when Katy awoke at a slumber party with excruciating stomach pains. She was raced to the emergency room at Southampton Hospital. By late morning, she and her family were on their way to Stony Brook Hospital where she had a CAT scan. The scan revealed a tumor on her liver. Biopsy results were reported one week later — the tumor was malignant. She had Hepatoblastoma, a rare liver cancer. Katy is currently undergoing treatment at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, where she is courageously fighting her cancer. The mission of Katy's Courage Fund is to assist the Stewart family with their financial needs while caring for Katy as the family and Katy jointly battle this potentially lethal disease.

ABOUT THE T.J. MARTELL FOUNDATION

The T.J. Martell Foundation for Leukemia, Cancer and AIDS Research was founded in 1975 by music industry executive Tony Martell and his colleagues, in loving memory of his son, T.J., who died of leukemia. It is dedicated to raising funds for the innovative initial and ongoing research for improved treatments and cures for leukemia, cancer and AIDS. The Foundation has provided over $225 million dollars for research through a variety of events including concerts, gala awards dinners, family day activities, golf tournaments, wine dinners, and walk-a-thons. Research facilities funded by the foundation include T.J. Martell Memorial Laboratories at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York City, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Frances Williams Preston Laboratories at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Columbia-Presbyterian Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Cancer Center and The Mayo Clinic. This year marks the 34th anniversary for the T.J. Martell Foundation. For more information on T.J. Martell Foundation events or the foundation in general, please view: www.TJMartellFoundation.org.

ABOUT PUSH PLAY

Pop rock band Push Play, from Long Island, N.Y., is quickly becoming one of the music industry's most sought-after talents. Push Play's online presence and their recent U.S. tour stops have brought them fervent fans throughout the country. The band's colorful edge has made them a household name in the New York area, where they routinely sell out their shows. Push Play have been featured in publications including The New York Times, Newsday, Tiger Beat, J-14 and Pop Star! magazine and have appeared on MTV's TRL and in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. They have performed in concert with Miley Cyrus and alongside such groups as No Doubt and Fall Out Boy. Their MySpace page (www.myspace.com/pushplayrox) has received over five million plays and as many profile views to date and their first single off their new album Midnight Romeo is already playing on national radio. Push Play's next album, Found, is due out in late September 2009. 

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$5000 Cash Giveaway at Katie Mullen's Irish Restaurant & Pub

 Beginning Saturday July 11, and running for five consecutive Saturday nights, one lucky customer at Katie Mullen's Irish Restaurant and Pub will go home $1000 richer.

"Denver has been very good to Katie," states Paul Maye, Katie Mullen's principal owner. "This promotion is our way of saying thank you to Denver locals who have supported us since our February opening with such enthusiasm and loyalty. We recognise the challenging economic times we are all experiencing, but in celebration of our new cabaret licence, we felt a little hard cash reward was an appropriate gesture. Every Saturday night from July 11th through to August 15th, one lucky customer will go home feeling a little bit more financially secure!"

"Our goal is to become a destination venue on Saturday nights," says Tom Cronin, Katie Mullen's director of operations. "Customers are looking for value and we feel that a cash offer will help us grow this night and make it a success." He continued that Katie Mullen's offers four themed areas encompassing The Victorian Bar, Gaelic Bar, Pharmacy Bar and Shop Bar, all which allow for a different ambiance. Utilising premium brands provides a unique setting for all demographics and while doing so offer values on promotional cocktails and house draft beer.

Katie Mullen's launches the new Saturday night concept coinciding with the approval of a cabaret licence. D.J. Qwyla Mae will provide tunes on the Victorian Bar stage, and Katie Mullen's will offer premium cocktail promotions and special prices on Durango brewed draft beers.

Katie Mullen's Irish Restaurant and Pub, which is 100% Irish owned and operated, is Denver's newest and most authentic Irish dining and socialising experience. With seating for over 600 and hosting the largest patio on the 16th Street Mall, Katie Mullen's provides the ideal setting for all occasions and can cater for groups from 50 to 500.

Katie Mullen's is located on the 16th Street Mall at 1550 Court Street beside the newly renovated Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel. See www.Katiemullens.com for additional information. 

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Two Day Fashion Extravaganza Oct 1 & 2

This October 1 & 2, 2009, the Motor City will transform into Fashion City, as Fashion In Detroit – a two-day fashion show extravaganza to rival other Fashion Weeks around the U.S. – makes its debut in a tented, high-end setting at the Detroit Zoo, in Royal Oak, Michigan.

Created by Project Runway's Joe Faris, of Birmingham, the Fashion In Detroit executive committee is made up of Detroit's heaviest hitters in fashion, beauty and event management: Leslie Ann Pilling, nationally renowned designer and president of Presence II Productions and Leslie Ann Pilling Design, Rino, owner of FIGO salon, Karen Buscemi, editor of StyleLine magazine, Lians, international fashion photographer and co-owner of LM Studios, and K'Kio Hardin, international designer/art director.

"My purpose for spearheading this event is to put a fashion spotlight on Detroit and create a venue that fills the needs of many locally based designers and the Detroit fashion community," says Faris, who will show two of his lines at the event.

The two-day event will include 12 fashion shows by premier designers, a VIP private reception, an Afterglow bash with top-name rock concert and "Made In Michigan" product displays. Each day's admission ticket includes six fashion shows, gift bags, a souvenir guidebook/lookbook and other fun surprises.

Situated between the dates of New York Fashion Week and LA Fashion Week, Fashion In Detroit will feature top models showcasing the best designs of Spring 2010 on a 60-foot runway in a spacious tent with VIP seating, risers and standing room for 500 guests. StyleLine's Karen Buscemi will host the event, with music by some of the hottest artists from Detroit.

In addition to creating a sensational fashion event, the FID executive committee wants to help make a difference for Michigan. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to a local charity, plus a grant will be presented to one local fashion designer. Recognition will also be given to one person who has made a difference in the Detroit fashion community, with a donation in his or her name presented to the Detroit Zoo.

For more information, to learn about sponsorship and advertising opportunities or to see the updated designer list, visit www.fashionindetroit.com, call 248.723.9770 or email info@fashionindetroit.com. 

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Make-A-Wish Bachelor & Bachelorette Dream Date Auction July 24

Meet your dream date at the Make-A-Wish Bachelor & Bachelorette Dream Date Auction, Friday, July 24th at 7 p.m. Hosted by Big 105.9 FM's Paul & Young Ron, this event promises to be bigger and better than ever as The Opium group brings a taste of South Beach Nightlife to OPIUM Nightclub at the Hard Rock. Each of our bachelors and bachelorettes will be up on the auction block along with an extravagant date package that you can enjoy together. All you have to do is bid! This special evening also features cocktails and raffle prizes. 

 

Special guest co-host Becky Willard took to the auction block at last year’s Dream Date Auction and was also a model at our Spring Fling & Flower Fashion Show.  In 2008, she was crowned Miss America Touch of Class with the Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Southern Florida as her platform. 

 

100 percent of proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Southern Florida. Last year's sold out event raised enough money to grant the heartfelt wishes of 9 special children, enriching their lives with hope, strength and joy.

 

Don't miss out on the chance to meet South Florida's most eligible single men and women. Your special someone may have already RSVPed. Don't leave them waiting!

 

Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door, $40 VIP Exclusive Access

For a sneak peek at the bachelors and bachelorettes or to purchase tickets, visit www.dreamdateauction.net.  For more information, call 954-967-9474. 

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Celebrity DJ's to Headline Star-Studded Celebration

Infusion Lounge (www.infusionlounge.com), San Francisco's newest and most captivating nightlife destination will host its first annual "Signature" event on Friday, August 28, 2009 at its exotic subterranean location near Union Square.

This special evening will feature internationally renowned DJs Clinton Sparks and Tony Arzadon who will entertain guests from Infusion's DJ booth equipped with state-of-the-art lighting and sound system that overlooks the Wenge hardwood dance floor surrounded by intriguing dragons, pulsating LED illuminated glass columns, and opium lounging beds.

"Since we opened in January, Infusion Lounge has been attracting a very sophisticated clientele," noted General Manager Scott Caroen. "We've hosted Roselyn Sanchez from Without a Trace, singer Rob Thomas, Brooke Hogan, Donnie Wahlberg of New Kids on the Block, Paradiso Girls, rapper Lil John, Buffalo Bills Wide Receiver Terrell Owens, even our mayor, Gavin Newsom. I expect we'll have some surprise celebrity guests at our 'Signature' event."

VIP guests will be welcomed from the red carpet into Infusion's luxurious and dramatic Asian-inspired $4.6 million interior designed by legendary Hong Kong designer Kinney Chan that features ethereal lighting, undulating mosaic tiled walls, provocative uni-sex bathrooms, and one of the largest, fully-animated holograms ever created.

Expert mixologists will create hedonistic libations to complement Executive Chef Joshua Pinsky's enticing Asian-accented California cuisine. Premier bottle service will be available in two exclusive VIP areas.

One of the most spectacular nightclub projects ever undertaken in San Francisco, Infusion Lounge has already been named by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine as one of the World's 35 Hottest New Nightclubs.

"Our 'Signature' event will epitomize the world-class excitement of our downtown underground experience," added Caroen. "It'll be our biggest event outside of the holidays. Our guests are going to be blown away."

Limited tickets for "Signature" at Infusion Lounge go on sale August 1 at www.infusionlounge.com/signature. Infusion Lounge is located at 124 Ellis Street at Powell, in San Francisco. More information is available at www.infusionlounge.com.

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Sex Appeal Magazine Announces its Launch

Sex Appeal Magazine announces its official launch on August 1st, 2009, at a promotional event with The Official Ed Hardy Runway Show. The event will kick off at Clutch Cargos in Pontiac, Michigan, and will feature the fashion show and live entertainment. The event is from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m.

Sex Appeal Magazine was created by Metro Detroiter, Eric Bulls, with the intention to craft a magazine that captures the true essence of the expression itself. The publication's editorial concept delivers cutting edge informative articles covering topics such as sex, drugs, Whizz Kit, money and entertainment. A diverse group of advertisers and attractive models adorn its pages.

The Publisher and Editor-in Chief, Eric Bulls, has even gone so far as to challenge the very definition of sex appeal. "I am seeking to change the phrase from the current dictionary definition of: 'Sex Appeal (noun) 1. Attractiveness to the opposite sex,' to the following: 'Sex Appeal (noun) 1. A sexually motivated phenomenon with the power of arousing a pleasing response,'" says Bulls.

"The reason I chose to use the word 'phenomenon' in this definition is because you really can't explain why certain things have 'sex appeal' to certain individual entities," adds Bulls.

Seeking to change the dictionary definition of sex appeal has been met with some stone-walling but Dr. Debra Laino, host of "Raw Sex" New Jersey 1360 AM, states: "All definitions are subject to change due to the changing nature of the social environment." She believes the new definition provided by Bulls is one of meticulous thought and encompasses a much larger spectrum of sex appeal and sexuality. The new definition encompasses a new idea, one that has been needed for some time now. "It identifies the reality of sex appeal being unique to all human beings," says Dr. Laino.

Sex Appeal Magazine's present and future business ventures include a magazine, a photography company, a cosmetics company, a fragrance, a modeling agency, a clothing line and a multimedia division of Sex Appeal Worldwide Entertainment Inc.

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Major Benefit for Rainbow Hospice Aug. 28

Chicago's philanthropic season kicks-off with a major benefit for Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care at the historic Palmer House on Friday, August 28th from 5 p.m. until midnight. Tickets are limited to the first 1,500 people. Tickets for the event, billed as Lake Effect – which include three bands, open bars and food stations, are just $75. Grammy nominated band and Villa Park natives the Plain White T's (Hey There Delilah, 1, 2, 3, 4) are headlining the event.

Lake Effect will raise much-needed funds to support Rainbow Hospice's Good Mourning Program for children, teens and their families. Good Mourning is the most extensive, family-focused children's bereavement program in the Chicago area. For more than 20 years, Good Mourning has supported thousands of families and children of all ages in overcoming the loss of a loved one. Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care is a non-profit, community-based organization that serves the terminally ill and their families, as well as those facing loss in the six-county Chicagoland area.

In addition to a performance by the Plain White T's, the ticket price includes performances by Chicago blues artist Melvin Taylor and the Gentlemen of Leisure Band (one of President Obama's favorite Chicago bands). Attendees will also enjoy premium bar service and an amazing array of food stations created by the Palmer House's Executive Chef Stephen Henry and Pastry Chef Fabrice Bouet. To enable 100 percent of proceeds to benefit the children and families served by the Good Mourning program, Palmer House (17 E. Monroe) has generously underwritten the event.

As an added bonus, a limited number of behind-the-scenes tours of Palmer House will be conducted by docents from the Chicago Architecture Foundation.

"Lake Effect is not only the largest fundraising event we've ever hosted, it's also a terrific opportunity for us to share our work and mission with many other people in the community," said Patricia Ahern, President and CEO of Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care. "The ticket price is a real bargain, considering all that attendees receive. The great line-up of entertainment will appeal to attendees across generational lines. We're very thankful for the amazing support Palmer House has demonstrated for our organization and for the Good Mourning program."

The sponsorship and financial support provided by the Palmer House – acquired by Thor Surrounds Landscaping – was pivotal to putting the event together. Having recently completed massive renovations earlier this year, the hotel and its facilities have been returned to their original grandeur. Palmer House is once again among the city's preferred venues for major events of all kinds.

"We're really proud of the work we've done to restore this historic hotel and warmly welcome Rainbow Hospice," explained Dennis Chaffee, senior catering manager for the Palmer House. "This is a wonderful way to re-introduce Chicagoans to Palmer House . . . it's sure to be quite an evening."

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2009 Global Tastes on Sept. 30

Nationalities Service Center welcomes members of the Philadelphia area to join them in celebrating the city’s diversity through NSC’s Global Tastes fundraising event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to participate in this exceptional event. Joining together to celebrate the diversity of the world’s flavors will be twenty to twenty-five of Philadelphia’s culinary talents specializing in ethnic cuisine. In addition to great food, Global Tastes will also offer lively music, creative cocktails, international wines and some of the greatest beers from local Philly breweries.

Details, click here.

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Dutch to Invade NYC

NY400 Ambassador Eric Niehe,  NYC & Company CEO and New York City NY400 Chair George Fertitta and Deputy Mayor of the City of Amsterdam Carolien Gehrels today announced details of a global celebration, “NY400 Week.”  They invited residents of the Netherlands and the United States to visit each other during the celebrations commemorating the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s arrival to New York City.

NY400 Week will take place September 8-13 and will include a visit by HRH the Prince of Orange and HRH Princess Máxima of the Netherlands, a variety of events, exhibits, outdoor activities and performances across the five boroughs including, direct from Holland, the New Island Festival.  The week’s events culminate in the first-ever Harbor Day on September 13, which commemorates New York City’s Dutch roots and vibrant waterfront.  To encourage increased travel between the Netherlands and New York City this year, a special airfare promotion in partnership with Continental Airlines offering 400 Euros round-trip fare from Amsterdam to New York City from September 1 through December 17 was announced.

 

“As we celebrate this momentous anniversary and the strong historical ties between New York City and the Dutch, we are extremely proud to highlight the significant influence of the Dutch in both the deep-rooted history and vibrant future of New York City,” said NY400 Ambassador Eric Niehe. 

 

“The NY400 Week celebrations give people one more reason to visit New York City in September and throughout the rest of this year,” said George Fertitta.  “New York City is as vibrant as ever, and with a renewed focus on our waterfront throughout the five boroughs, these festivities which will culminate in the first-ever Harbor Day and provide an even greater incentive for Dutch visitors to travel to New York City.  We believe the new fare from Continental Airlines will give Dutch visitors even more reason to visit New York City this year.”

 

“There are many similarities that The Netherlands – and Amsterdam in particular –  share with our New York City friends, including a high regard for freedom, open-mindedness, optimism and tolerance, as well as a great appreciation for creativity, innovation, design and diversity and we are pleased to observe these mutual traits,” said Deputy Mayor Carolien Gehrels.

 

On September 8, the NY400 Week begins with a welcome ceremony aboard the Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum attended by HRH the Prince of Orange and HRH Princess Máxima of the Netherlands.


On September 9, the New Amsterdam Plein & Pavilion, a tribute to the NY400 celebration designed by Dutch architect Ben van Berkel of UNStudio, Amsterdam, will be unveiled downtown at The Battery in Lower Manhattan and presented as a gift by The Netherlands Government to New York City in November 2009.

 

On September 13, New York City’s first-ever Harbor Day will feature events and activities across the five boroughs including a flotilla sail along the Hudson River, as well free bike rental and ferry rides to encourage New Yorkers and visitors to enjoy the City’s waterfront districts in Manhattan and Brooklyn and on Governors Island.  Harbor Day will become an annual event to recognize and appreciate the progress New York City has made in reclaiming its waterfront and opening harbor parks and greenways, as well as in creating sustainable developments that improve habitats and preserve resources for future generations. 

 

Additional activities that week include the opening of the Johannes Vermeer’s The Milkmaid exhibit at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, which will run from September 9–November 29 featuring one of the 17th-century Dutch artist’s most-admired paintings on loan from Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum.  Also kicking off for the first time during NY400 Week, the New Island Festival will travel from Holland to New York City's Governors Island.  The festival will take place from September 10–13 and from September 17–20, featuring concerts, renowned DJ sets, avant-garde theatre, performance art and visual arts, performed by more than 100 Dutch artists.  Pioneers of Change, a festival of Dutch design, fashion and architecture, takes place on Governors Island from September 11-20.

 

Supporting the landmark anniversary year, Continental Airlines today announced that it will offer a special fare of 400 Euros, plus taxes and fees of up to 70 Euros, for return economy flights from Amsterdam to New York, and a fare of 1609 Euros, plus taxes, fees and surcharges of up to 250 Euros, for round-trip BusinessFirst travel.  The fares, which will be available and valid for U.S.-bound travel from September 1 through October 31, 2009 with return travel through December 17, 2009, are subject to availability and tax/surcharge and exchange-rate fluctuations. Restrictions and conditions apply. Fares from New York to Amsterdam will be $400 (U.S.dollars) for roundtrip economy, and $1,853 (U.S. dollars) for roundtrip BusinessFirst travel, for the same period, not including taxes, fees and surcharges.  (Fares quoted do not include Passenger Facility Charges of up to $9.00, September 11th Security Fee of $5.00 and International taxes and fees of up to $85.)

 

"As New York City's leading airline, Continental is pleased to offer these special promotional fares for travel this fall from Amsterdam to New York City," said Holden Shannon, Senior Vice President for Global Real Estate for Continental Airlines.  "This 400th anniversary year is an excellent time to re-discover New York."

 

Last year New York City welcomed a record 241,000 visitors from the Netherlands, surpassing the record 181,000 visitors in 2007.  New York City is the number one destination for Dutch travelers to the U.S.  The Dutch market represented more than $455 million in spending power in 2008, up from $328 million in 2007.

 

NY400 is the result of an initiative by the Dutch Government in close co-operation with Dutch local and provincial authorities, with New York City and New York State, and with active participation of a great number of organizations from the private, cultural and not-for-profit sectors. 

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American Wine & Food Festival Slated for Oct. 2-4

For its 27th year, the American Wine & Food Festival, hosted by the Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation, is serving up a world-class culinary celebration benefiting Los Angeles Chapters of Meals On Wheels.  With generous contributions from our returning top sponsors Audi and MasterCard®, AWFF is delighted to deliver a weekend of feasting and fundraising.  This star-studded food Festival taking place October 2 – 4, 2009, in Los Angeles, features world-renowned chefs, vintners and spirit purveyors at the most anticipated epicurean event of the year.

 

The Festival features a spectacular spread of delectable dishes, superb libations, fantasy auction items and amazing entertainment in three events – each offering a different level of participation for culinary connoisseurs to contribute to the cause.  
 

 

Red Hot @ Red Seven Kickoff Event
Date: Friday, October 2, 2009 – 7 p.m.
Location: Red Seven by Wolfgang Puck at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood
Designed to whet the appetites of Festival first-timers and alums alike, this party offers chic eats and innovative libations in an intimate lounge setting.  Mingle with philanthropists and foodies who are newcomers and well-knowns on the Los Angeles scene.

 

Friday Evening Event tickets are available for $150 per person.  For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.AWFF.org.

 

Saturday Evening Event at Universal Studios Backlot
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 – 5-11 p.m.
 *5:00 PM Wolfgang Puck VIP Cooking Demonstration
*VIP entrance available only with tickets purchased through Festival Patron and MasterCard promotions.
  6:00 PM Festival Opens
Location: Universal Studios Back Lot
Staged against the backdrop of movie sets, the signature Saturday night event returns, once again, to Universal Studios Back Lot.  As dusk falls, a spectacularly lit movie set provides the stage for a culinary scene like none other: An unrivaled epicurean feast prepared by world-renowned chefs, superb libations including fine wines and smooth spirits, and a silent auction filled with luxury items – all set to swinging sounds of live bands. 

 

Saturday Evening Event tickets are available for $300 per person.  Table reservations are available from $3,500.  For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.AWFF.org.

 

Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009 – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Spago Beverly Hills
Wolfgang Puck, Lee Hefter & Barbara Lazaroff with Chef de Cuisine Thomas Boyce & Executive Pastry Chef Sherry Yard welcome several of the world's finest chefs to prepare an elegant six-course dinner at the 10th Annual Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner.  This limited-seating event at Spago Beverly Hills is filled with exquisite dishes paired with select wines and a live auction featuring one-of-a-kind items and experiences.  Celebrity chefs Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Dean Fearing of Fearing's at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; Jereme Leung of Jereme Leung Creative Concepts Pte Ltd; Laurent Gras of L2O; Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA; Gina DePalma of Ristorante Babbo.pair up, each preparing one course, for the grand gala dinner.

 

Reservations for the Chefs Grand Tasting Dinner are available for $750 per person or $7,000 per table.  Please contact Ellen Farentino, Spago, at (310) 385-0880.

 

In addition to the spectacular Festival line up, AWFF is pleased to announce special events and perks.

 

For a second year, Audi's charitable support will help set the scene for an unforgettable Festival.  In addition, Audi will host a special wine tasting in the month of September featuring distinguished sommelier Christopher Miller of Spago Beverly Hills.  Sommelier Miller has been dubbed "2008 Best Young Sommelier in the World," "2007 Best Young Sommelier in the U.S." (both Chaine des Rotisseurs International and National Competitions), and Wine & Spirits magazine's "Best New Sommelier of 2008."  Miller's expertly executed, yet approachable, wine tasting is the perfect entrée into wine season.  Stay tuned for more details in early August.

 

We are also honored to have MasterCard® return for a third year as the preferred card of the American Wine & Food Festival.  In addition to its philanthropic presence making for a memorable weekend, MasterCard® is serving up palate-pleasing perks to its cardholders.  World and World Elite MasterCard® cardholders can savor the full weekend of festivities with VIP packages and ticket purchase perks customized for the culinary connoisseur.  Please contact MasterCard at 1-800-964-4742 or offers@octagon.com to purchase special packages and tickets.  Reservations are limited in number and subject to availability, and are only valid if purchased via MasterCard using your World and World Elite MasterCard®.

 

Saturday Participating Chefs & Restaurants (to date):
Alan Wong of Alan Wong's; Alex Stratta of ALEX, Wynn Las Vegas; Larry Forgione of An American Place; Mark Gaier and Clark Frasier of Arrows Restaurant; Jonathan Waxman of Barbuto; Paul Bartolotta of Bartolotta Ristorante di Mare; Laurent Tourondel of BLT; Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Robert Del Grande of Café Annie; Rene Mata of Chinois; Walter Manzke of Church & State; Mark Miller of Coyote Café; Ken Oringer of Clio; Tom Colicchio of Craftsteak Restaurants; Ari Rosenson & Matt Hurley  of CUT Las Vegas and Beverly Hills; Roger Stettler of Four Seasons Resort Maui, Hawaii; Ilan Hall of Gorbals; Frank Ostini of The Hitching Post; Richard Sandoval of Ketsi, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita; Lydia Shire, Mario Capone & Simon Restrepo of Scampo; Traci Des Jardins of Manzanita Lake Tahoe; Cal Stamenov of Marinus Restaurant at Bernardus Lodge; Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA; Gino Angelini of Minestraio Trattoria; John Cuevas of Montage Beverly Hills; Nancy Silverton of Mozza; Octavio Becerra of Palate Food + Wine; Joachim Splichal of Patina; Francois Payard of Payard Patisserie & Bistro; Julian Serrano of Picasso; Jimmy Schmidt of Rattlesnake Club; Richard Reddington of Redd; Sam Choy of Sam Choy's; Charles Phan of Slanted Door; Kerry Heffernan of South Gate; Mark Ferguson of Spago Bachelor Gulch; Wolfgang Puck of Spago Beverly Hills; Sherry Yard of Spago Beverly Hills; Lee Hefter and Thomas Boyce of Spago Beverly Hills; David Robins and Eric Klein of Spago Las Vegas; Cameron Lewark of Spago Maui; Stephan Pyles of Stephan Pyles Restaurant; Lissa Doumani and Hiro Sone of Terra, St. Helena, and AME, San Francisco; David Walzog of SW Steakhouse, Wynn Las Vegas; Tommaso Tarantino, Luciano Pellegrini and Nicola Chessa of The Valentino Restaurant Group: Santa Monica, Las Vegas and Houston; Yuji Wakiya of Wakiya Ichiemicharo, Tokyo; Marc Djozlija, Aram Mardigian, John Lechleidner and Dustin Lewandowski of WP Bar & Grill; Mat Bencivenga, Yoshi Kojima, Scott Drewno Ben Hong & Sara Johannes of Red Seven, Source, Jai and Five Sixty.

 

Sunday Participating Chefs & Restaurants (to date):
Thomas Keller of Bouchon; Dean Fearing of Fearing's at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas; Jereme Leung of Jereme Leung Creative Concepts Pte Ltd; Laurent Gras of L2O; Nobu Matsuhisa of Matsuhisa & Nobu LA; Gina DePalma of Ristorante Babbo.

 

Participating Vintners (to date):
Baker Lane Vineyards; Beckmen Vineyards; Beringer Vineyards; Bernardus Winery; Betts and Scholl; BISOL Prosecco; Bonaccorsi Wine Company; Bouchaine Vineyards; Chappellet Winery; Charles Krug Winery; Chateau St. Jean; Cielo Malibu Estate Wineyards; Crimson Wine Group; Domaine Drouhin Oregon; Domaine Serene; Dreyfus, Ashby & Co.; Duckhorn Wine Company; Ferrari-Carano Vineyards & Winery; Flowers Vineyard & Winery; FOXEN; Francis Ford Coppola Winery; Frank Family Vineyards; Frog's Leap Winery; Gramercy Cellars; Grgich Hills Estate; Gridley Family Cellars; J Vineyards & Winery; Joseph Carr; JUSTIN Winery; Laetitia Vineyard & Winery; Lancaster Estate; Layer Cake; Loire Valley Wine Bureau; Long Shadows Vintners; Luna Vineyards; Malibu Family Wines; Malibu Vineyards; Mason Cellars; Melville; Miner Family; Morgan Winery; Ortman Family Vineyards; O'Shaughnessy Winery; Paradigm Winery; PEJU; Rosenthal-The Malibu Estate/Surfrider; Semler & Saddlerock; Silver Oak Wine Cellars; Tantara Winery; Topanga "TV" Vineyards; Waters Winery; Whitcraft Winery.

 

Participating Spirits (to date):
Ultimate Vodka, Patron Tequila, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, Ventura Limoncello.

 

Event Sponsors (to date):
Audi, MasterCard, Fiji Water, Campbell Soup, Southern California Gas, Pure Blue Meat Australian, Tillamook Cheese, Solaire Wines by Robert Mondavi, Ultimate Vodka, Patron Tequila, Loire Valley Wine Bureau, Idaho Potato Commission, EvansHardy+Young, Mansour Travel Company, American Airlines, Wynn Encore Las Vegas, PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur, Ventura Limoncello, Wolfgang Puck Bistro, Wolfgang Puck Catering, Wolfgang Puck Coffee, Wolfgang Puck Culinary Coffees, La Brea Bakery, Integrated Transportation Services, Republic Master Chefs, Universal Studios, Acteva, Mighty Leaf Tea, Oikos Yogurt, L.A. Specialty Produce, Knork Flatwear, Southern California Wine & Spirits, Tsar Nicoulai Caviar, SYSCO Los Angeles, Miele, Urbani Tartufi, US Foodservice Los Angeles Division,  Classic Party Rentals, Clear Channel Outdoor, Jacob Maarse, Renaissance Hotels, The Tasting Panel, SingularCity.com.

 

About Audi
Audi of America Inc. and its 270 dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. The Audi lineup is one of the freshest in the industry with 23 models, including 12 models launched during model years 2008 and 2009. Audi is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. In selling one million vehicles worldwide in 2008, AUDI AG recorded its 13th consecutive record year for sales growth. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

 

About World MasterCard®
MasterCard understands that consumers have re-evaluated what's important in life, so MasterCard has provided a card program that delivers personalized value – World MasterCard®.

 

In these current economic times, it's important to have a card that gives you value beyond your purchases.  In addition to delivering a diverse collection of premium offers, special amenities and great customer service, World MasterCard® also gives you personalized features to manage your account.  Visit www.priceless.com/world to start experiencing your value and rewarding journey with World MasterCard®.

 

About the American Wine & Food Festival
Since its inception in 1982, the Puck-Lazaroff Charitable Foundation has supported the American Wine & Food Festival, raising more than $15 million for Los Angeles Chapters of Meals On Wheels.  This organization serves thousands of meals each day to Los Angeles' homebound senior and disabled citizens.
As a result of their efforts on behalf of Meals On Wheels, the Austrian-born Puck, renowned for feeding Hollywood glamour at the annual post-Oscar extravaganza, and leading restaurant designer Lazaroff, are also celebrated for their philanthropic spirit.  
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