Fresh Raw Summer Roll

Executive Chef Todd Jacobs has created one of the best new Hamptons restaurants of 2013, living up to its name FRESH in many ways.  Fresh offers an innovative menu sure to please any vegans, vegetarians, or gluten free dieters with plenty to satisfy carnivores and gastronomical gluttons.  Jacobs invites you to enjoy the great flavor and energy packed into the menu.

With an ode to “have it your way,” Fresh offers diners the chance to build their own chopped salad from a vast array of ingredients including celery hearts, beets, strawberries, toasted walnuts, alfalfa sprouts  over mesclun, spinach or arugula.

In terms of portions for main dishes you can order a quarter pound, half pound, or one pound size so you can nibble or share or bring home lunch for tomorrow.  I am naturally reluctant to share by nature so I just order several small dishes and hoard it with a “don’t you go there” look in my eye.

Jacobs aim is to source local and organic ingredients and let their flavors shine through.  He explains, “I mix the vibrant flavors with subtle infusions.” Delicious sauces are served in a petit pouron. He also brings his team with him of many years to ensure good service which is essential to face the seasonal rush.

Fresh in Bridgehampton

Not to miss items:

The Grilled Portobello Mushrooms, Warm Baby Spinach & Smoked Red Onions Balsamic Vinaigrette & Shaved Parmesean

Raw Fresh Summer Roll with Julienned Hearts of Romaine, Beets, Carrots, Avocado, Peppers, Scallions, Asparagus and Local Dried Tomatoes wrapped in a Collard Green Leaf with Tomato Chipolte Vegan Aioli

Deep Water Oysters with Jalapeno-Yuzu & Scallion Mignonette

Hemp Flour Crusted Flounder, Organic Carrot Butter Infused with Ginger & Lemongrass

Grilled Moroccan Spiced Hangar Steak With Oven Roasted Cipollini Onions & Natural Beef Jus

(is your mouth watering yet?)

There’s a great menu of Mocktails including “Fresh” Ginger Flower – Elderflower syrup infused with fresh ginger muddled lemon and club soda

They also have a full kids menu as well and delicious desserts…..

Former location of South Fork Kitchen, 203 Bridgehampton Sagg Turnpike, 631 537 4700.

Denise Bolds with Smart Wheels camper

In a season of glamorous Hamptons fundraisers some stand out.  Because it’s personal.   For women of many different generations their first love stories involved a trip to Planned Parenthood.  At the Planned Parenthood benefits many successful women recount how the organization is still near and dear to their hearts.  For many women the only the health insurance they can afford is high doses of Vitamin C.  It is essential to support organizations such as Planned Parenthood which serves so many in this community.  Held this year on Sunday May 26^th at the beautiful Channing Family Sculpture Garden, the Hamptons Planned Parenthood Fundraiser will be a not to miss event.

WHAT:           Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic East End Benefit

(Celebrating Our 80^th Anniversary!)

Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a silent auction

Proceeds support PPHP’s programs and services in Suffolk County

WHEN: Sunday, May 26, 2013

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

WHERE: Channing Family Sculpture Garden

1927 Scuttle Hole Road

Bridgehampton, NY 11932

Hosts: Molly and Walter Channing

COST: $300 per person

Junior ticket (30 & under) ~ $150/person

Sponsor tickets from $500/person

Wines generously donated by the Channing Family

Catering provided by Cynthia Battaglia, Distinctive Catering

CONTACT:  For tickets or sponsorships, contact Kate Kaming at (631) 240-1128 or
kate.kaming@pphp.org.

_________________________________

Benefit Committee:

Rima Mardoyan, Dorothy Lichtenstein, Jill C. Scheuer (Co-chairs)

Diane Benson, Walter and Molly Channing, Cia Comnas, Kendell Cronstrom, Annette P. Cumming, Virginia Edwards, Lisa Eisenstein, Sinead Fitzgibbon and Anne Livet, Robin S. Miller, Sharon Morris, Joe Nahem and Jeff Fields, Ann Pogue-Campbell

Honorary Committee:

Iris Abrons (Chair)

Richard Abrons, Alec and Hilaria Baldwin, Loraine Boyle, Ellen Chesler and Matthew Mallow, Hon. Janet DiFiore and Dennis Glazer, April Gornik and Eric Fischl, Jill and Barry Lafer, Diane Max, Valerie and Patrick McCarthy, Isaac Mizrahi, Sandy and Steve Perlbinder, Cecile Richards, Susan Ringo and Barry Sonnenfeld, Edwina von Gal

www.pphp.org

I have been sitting on Santa’s lap for decades now whispering my desires in his ear.  Sometimes my wishes are noble like helping a friend’s talented daughter get a scholarship to art school and other times completely frivolous (you haven’t lived until you’ve gotten a faux mink car ice scraper.)  For  those of us in the Hamptons we have many reasons to count our blessings.  Here are a few of my favorite ways to light up the Hamptons holiday season.

Montauk Light House

Traveling to the end of the world or at least the East End of the world is a real treat to see the Montauk Lighthouse bathed in a sea of lights.  It is lit every night through January 1^st.

www.montauklighthouse.com

Pierre’s-  Bridgehampton

Pierre puts Christmas where his bouche is.  It is Joyeux Noel all the time: breakfast, lunch and dinner every day of the year.  Keep an eye out for wonderful live jazz Tuesday (except xmas)  and Sunday from 6:30p – 9:30p.  He also has a delectable market next door and patisserie.

www.pierresbridgehampton.com

Wolffer Estate Vineyard- Sagaponack

The vines seem to stretch to infinity, illuminated with tiny white lights.  Friday night they are open late until 8pm but since it’s dark at 4pm you can catch a glass of wine and see them any night.  Great place for a last minute gift at their gift shop.

www.wolffer.com

The American Hotel – Sag Harbor

A true Victorian mecca, the hotel is decked out in all its glory like a Charles Dickens tale (or maybe one where Scrooge was on Prozac and happy all the time.)  Great for lunch, brunch, dinner or just a glass of bubbly, it is festive personified.

www.theamericanhotel.com

c/o The Maidstone – East Hampton

A touch of Sweden mixes with Hamptons cheer at this hotel with its restaurant and lounge, The Living Room.  Have a seat by the fire or if the weather is warm enough snuggle up on the porch for some holiday cheer and wait to see eight tiny reindeer.

http://www.careofhotels.com/maidstone

Nancy Atlas Project – Stephen Talkhouse – Amagansett

Nothing lights up a room like Nancy Atlas and her band of merry makers.  She headlines the In The Round Christmas Spectacular at the Stephen Talkhouse Dec. 21 at 8pm.  If this is indeed the end of the world there’s no one else I’d like to party with.

www.nancyatlas.com

Topping Rose House – Bridgehampton

The new Tom Colicchio inn and restaurant is newly opened in its full Greek Revival Glory.  Make a reservation at their gourmet restaurant which also offers weekend brunch or just stop by the bar for a festive drink.

www.toppingrosehouse.com

Southampton Animal Shelter

Charity

The brightest light is always when you give to others.  There are many deserving cultural, philanthropic and aid organizations for people, animals, and the environment.  Pick your favorite and give generously if not only money but your volunteer time.  Here are a few of my favorite Hamptons charities.

East Hampton Food Pantry

Food for families in need.

www.easthamptonfoodpantry.org

Peconic Land Trust

Conserving Long Island’s working farms and natural lands.

www.peconiclandtrust.org

Southampton Animal Shelter

Rescues dogs and cats and helps rehab them for adoption.

www.southamptonanimalshelter.org

The Retreat

Aiding battered women.

www.theretreatinc.org

John Jermain Memorial Library -Sag Harbor

Keeping reading alive for everyone.

www.johnjermain.org

And of course – Santa if you are reading here’s the faux fur ice scraper – www.fabulousfurs.com $25

fa

By Heather Buchanan

Okay, so maybe you weren’t the girl slathered in baby oil with the foil face sun reflector but that doesn’t mean you are not at risk for skin cancer.  According to a 2005 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the number of women under age 40 diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma has more than doubled in 30 years while cases of squamous cell carcinoma among women under 40 increased almost 700 percent.  And that’s when global warming was just warming up.

Why is it as women that we have yearly pap smears and mammograms yet neglect our largest organ, namely our skin when it comes to pre-cancer screenings.  I know, you shriek when you find a new wrinkle and run for Botox, but how about a suspicious spot you’ve noticed for a while on your décolletage that you do nothing about.

It’s not vanity, it’s your life.

Personally I was shocked when that weird looking bump on my chest that I finalllllllly got checked out thanks to a good friend turned out to be a basal cell carcinoma.  Fragrant leafy greens that we love on our Caprese Salads aside, this is not good news.  However, the true good news is that it is easily treatable.  Unlike commitment-phobic men and abusive bosses, they can be expertly exorcised from your life.

HipHamptons.com reached out to Hamptons Dermatologist Dr. Elliot T. Weiss of the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York in Manhattan and Southampton for expert advise from the front lines of Hamptons skin cancer treatment.  And yes, because we are still women we include a nod to vanity as well as health.  And remember SPF is your BFF.

HH: What are the different types of skin cancers?

EW: There are actually quite a few types of cancers that affect the skin.  However, the overwhelming majority of skin cancers fall into three main categories:  Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Malignant Melanoma (MM). BCC and SCC are by far the most common, and they actually represent the most prevalent malignancies in humans.  MM, while less common, is unfortunately one of the most lethal cancers potentially.  When detected early, these skin cancers can be adequately treated with local surgery at the site of the skin cancer and do not require any further workup or imaging.  For that reason, early detection is really the key!

HH: What are the warning signs that someone should look for and get a suspicious spot checked?

EW: Certainly any lesion that has bleed or bleeds easily should be evaluated.  In general, for moles, any stable appearing mole that begins to change should probably be checked.  Additionally, any mole that appears asymmetric, multicolored or has irregular borders should be evaluated.  It is not uncommon for me to see a patient for a concerning lesion that ends up being totally benign, but during the same exam, we may discover a skin cancer that the patient was not aware existed.  For that reason, I recommend to my patients to be seen regularly, particularly if they have a history of precancerous lesions or skin cancer.

HH: At what age should people start doing a routine screening as part of their physical check up?

EW: There is no real simple answer to that question.  It really depends on family history, skin type and amount of sun exposure for the individual.  Certainly, if someone has many irregular moles, a history of precancerous or cancerous skin lesions then they should be checked at least every year.  Individuals who spend a significant amount of time outside or who work outdoors will usually need to begin screening earlier than those individuals who don’t ever spend time in the sun.  I think everyone should receive a baseline skin exam as a young adult, and then the frequency of exams can be determined based on the individual.  Total cumulative Ultraviolet light exposure in addition to intense short periods of exposure (those sunny vacations) predispose individuals to precancerous and cancerous skin lesions.  Ultimately, my feeling is that if something doesn’t seem right to an individual or if a new growth has developed, just have it evaluated by a dermatologist.  I really feel early detection and prevention are key, so I usually recommend annual exams to my adult patients.

HH: How does your approach to treating skin cancer differ from others?

EW: My approach to treating skin cancer differs from many in that I have many different treatment modalities at my disposal.  One important distinction is that I’m a fellowship trained Mohs Micrographic Surgeon.  This tissue preserving technique enables me to remove a skin cancer in its entirety while minimizing the amount of tissue that needs to be removed.  I accomplish this by removing thin layers of tissue and checking them under the microscope while the patient waits in my office.  This is performed until all the skin cancer is removed.  The Mohs technique is the gold standard for skin cancer treatment.

Another distinction is that I approach each case with the understanding that I’m treating the patient rather than just a skin cancer.  I enjoy the personal relationships I develop with my patients, and I attempt to tailor a personalized treatment plan that best fits the individual’s needs and circumstances.  Since I also have specialized training in cosmetic dermatology, laser and aesthetic procedures, I have a unique skill set and perspective that enables me to ensure the best cosmetic outcome for my surgical patients.

HH: Along with health concerns there are cosmetic concerns – How do you minimize visible scars? What are the best steps for prevention?

EW: Cosmetic concerns are very important to my patients and to me.  The vast majority of skin cancers I remove using Mohs Micrographic Surgery are located on the face, and I also perform approximately 99% of the surgical reconstructions that are required for my patients.  In addition to removing the cancer completely, minimizing the appearance of the resulting surgical scars is of paramount importance to me.  I received 2 years of additional fellowship training beyond residency in Mohs surgery, advanced surgical reconstruction and laser surgery.

For me, I view the reconstruction as two staged: first the surgical reconstruction and then any laser surgery that is needed.  The first stage entails me using cutting edge surgical techniques to reconstruct the wound and orient the incision in the most hidden location.  Once the wound has healed, my expertise in laser surgery for scars allows me to further minimize the appearance of the incision if needed.  If a scar remains red or becomes bumpy or noticeable, I utilize a number of lasers to improve these conditions.

In terms of prevention, sunscreen and photoprotection are definitely number one.  After that, periodic skin exams will hopefully ensure that a skin cancer is detected early which is the ideal situation.

Elliot T. Weiss M.D.

Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York

Manhattan & Southampton

325 Meeting House Lane

Bidg 1, STE C

Southampton, NY 11968

631-287-7307

www.laserskinsurgery.com

Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology

Weill-Cornell Medical College

New York-Presbyterian

New York, NY

By Heather Buchanan

For a happy Hamptons Thanksgiving we have a few HipHamptons Do’s & Don’ts as well as a list of great activities for the weekend.

Don’t mess with the stuffing –

Let’s face it – It’s not really about the turkey, it’s about what’s inside.  The family wants the old fashioned stuffing served every year.  Don’t go all crazy on it with truffles, dates, and cognac.  Your family will be upset… for a while.

Don’t play with the turkey parts –

Yes it seems super funny to chase your boyfriend around with the turkey neck but then it ends up on Facebook and you just look creepy.

Do shop –

Just not at 5am and not at a big chain store.  Shopping is supposed to be fun – not a full body contact sport.  Instead support your local shop owners on Small Business Saturday.   Some of them will even, hold your breath, wrap gifts.

Do get outside –

Laughter can turn to tears when you’ve eaten so much that you pop your pants button and it flies across the room and hits the pug in the ass.  It’s the Hamptons so enjoy beach walks, nature hikes, and expensive private pilates studios on every corner.

Be thankful

There’s a reason it’s not called Bitchgiving.  It’s not the time to moan, complain, discuss politics or Lindsay Lohan.  Drop it.  Find something nice to say even if it’s “Boy you really did a good job getting out that carpet stain where Uncle Frank dropped and rolled on the flaming BBQ turkey.”  If you have a roof over your head and lovely food on the table you are blessed.

Here’s a line up of Hamptons Thanksgiving 2013 Favorite Activities:

Michelle Farmer Collaborate – Stylish Friday Sale

Friday Nov. 23, 10am – 5pm

Enjoy light bites and champagne while perusing original creations from up and coming designers with select styles on sale. Jewelry, clothes, accessories and yes stuff for you guys too.  Michelle always makes everyone feel welcome and has a great eye for just what will look great on you, muffin top and all.

2491 Montauk Hwy, Bridgehampton

631 604 1850

www.Michellefarmer.com

East Hampton House Tour

House Tour Sat Nov. 24 1pm – 4:30pm– From historic to modern the five houses reflect the diverse architectural styles of East Hampton which span different centuries.  Tickets are $65.  We love the chance to see inside these gorgeous homes and we promise we won’t peek into the medicine cabinets.

631 324 6850

www.Easthamptonhistory.org

Marder’s Garden Center’s 39^th Annual Open House

Fri. Nov. 23 & Sat. Nov. 24, 9am – 5pm

The barn is decked out with beautiful decorative items and gifts for gardeners and brown thumbs alike.  And if you want to learn about the birds and the bees this is your chance.  Gunter Hauk of the Spikenard Farm Honeybee Sanctuary and Nick Marzano of the Wildlife Rescue Center with rescued birds will both be on hand.  Check the website for times.

Sat.Nov. 24, 4pm – 8pm Holiday reception Silas Marder Gallery

120 Snake Hollow Road Bridgehampton

631 537 3700

www.Marders.com, www.silasmarder.com

Lighting of the Montauk Lighthouse

Sat. Nov. 24, 4:30p to 7p

This is truly a spectacular site.  HipHamptons Insider Tip – the traffic can be totally backed up for the official event.  After a few days stuck with your family sitting in traffic singing along to Billy Ray Cyrus actually be a welcome respite.  Otherwise the lighthouse is lit every night until January 1^st 2013.

631 668 2428

www.Montauklighthouse.com

Croteaux Vineyard holiday gift

North Fork Wine Tasting

Wine tasting on the North Fork is one of the great pleasures of the Hamptons.  Feel free to call yourself an oenophile even if you can’t spell it.  You can find a complete listing of wineries and events on the Long Island Wine Council website (www.liwine.com).   Be sure to hit Croteaux Vineyard in Southold which is all rosé all the time.  They have a great gift which I have already bought… for myself… a few times – The Voyage Sparkling Rosé with 2 stemless glasses in a gift tin for $37.

www.croteaux.com

Parrish Presents

This annual shopping extravaganza from the Parrish Art Museum is a preferred destination for the sophisticated social set and those who aspire to be just like them.  There are great bargains and unique gift items with a gift bazaar, silent auction and market.   Home furnishings, table top and linens, jewelry, clothes, and books are featured.  Go early so you don’t have to fight with Cornelia over the candelabra.

Preview Cocktail Party and Book Signing with authors including Tom Wolfe Fri. Nov. 23 5pm – 8pm tickets start at $125.

General Sale Sat. Nov. 24, 11am – 5pm & Sun. Nov. 25, 11am – 4pm $5

NOTE – The event is at the old location at 25 Jobs Lane in Southampton.  Be sure to check out the fabulous new Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill at 279 Montauk Hwy.

631 283 2118

www.parrishart.org

Eric Firestone Gallery

Thanksgiving Art Walk Hamptons

Sat. Nov. 24, 1pm – 5pm

20 plus galleries will be participating with a free self-guided tour (you can download maps online.)  For $10 you can take guided tours which start at 1pm in East Hampton, Southampton, Bridgehampton, and Sag Harbor.  We love our local artists and need to support them or the Hamptons will only be left with hedge fund managers.

www.artwalkhamptons.com

LongHouse Reserve

Fri Nov. 23 & Sat. Nov. 24, 11am – 4pm

One of the Hamptons best gardens – these 16 acres are home to creatively landscaping and numerous sculptures.  They also have a newly opened Museum Store.  This is the perfect place for a meditative walk and then conscious consumption with unique holiday gifts.

133 Hands Creek Road, East Hampton

631 329 3568

www.longhouse.org

By Heather Buchanan

There’s a lot of buzz around the 2012 Hamptons International Film Festival running from Oct. 4^th to 8th.  What was once perceived as a serious bunch dressed in black has turned into one of the chicest international crowds.  Now in its twentieth year the festival has reached a maturity and has honed its eye.  Academy Award winning films like Slumdog Millionaire, Black Swan, The King’s Speech and The Artist have all previewed here as well as many of the winners of the Academy Award for Best Foreign Film.  Director of Programming David Nugent who has a sixth sense for cinematic success has along with his team culled through thousands of films to present a diverse slate.

Honorary Chairman Alec Baldwin says, “Clear your schedules, turn off your cell phones, empty your minds, and indulge in the pure joy that immersion in a great program of films can bring.”

Although it’s a feather in your cap to see these films before the general public, the real gems of the festival are the films which will go on to more limited distribution.  The documentaries and international and American independent films are the exciting discoveries, and audiences have the unique opportunity to discuss the film with the filmmaker after the screening.   These personal stories transport you to a new place of understanding.

HipHamptons Insider note: Sold Out are two dirty words at HIFF.  What happens is a film is Rush Line Only.  What this means is that they hold a certain number of seats for Founders Pass holders who have all access.  If those seats aren’t filled, they will sell the unused seats.  Arrive early to wait in the Rush Line if you’re dying to see the film.

Of course everyone wants to know about the parties.  Unfortunately they are private unless you buy a Founders Pass ($1500 for unlimited films which includes opening and Saturday filmmakers party) or Filmmakers Discovery Packet ($125 which includes Saturday filmmakers party).  However here are some HipHamptons tips on Hot Spots for the Hamptons International Film Festival in-crowd.

c/o The Maidstone Hotel – this is the HIFF Official Headquarters and continues to serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks to the public.

The Palm – The bar at The Palm is always a social spot before the evening screenings and for sure you will see a who’s who gathered around the prime rib.

Rowdy Hall – Each morning at 10 am from Oct. 5^th to Oct. 8^th there will be a free morning talk (first come first served with doors open at 9:30am).  The topics range from Atomic States and Cancer Rates on Long Island to Kickstarting Your Film to Hitting a Home Run: Meet Moneyball Producer Rachael Horovitz, to From Farm to Table to Film.  The public is welcome so come for free coffee and stimulating conversation.

The American Hotel – There will be screenings at the Sag Harbor Cinema and also Bay Street is the venue for A Conversation With…  Richard Gere, Alan Cumming and Stevie Nicks.  A civilized cocktail before or after is always in order.

But back to the movies — In a vast film slate it can be challenging to pick films.  Here are a few HipHamptons top pix to guide you.

Spotlight Films

A series of three love stories covers early love, mature love, then final chapters of love.  These three films have already garnered international festival acclaim.

Smashed

Smashed- Mary Elizabeth Winstead (who will be at the festival) delivers a career making performance as Hannah, one half of an alcoholic couple.  The surprisingly funny and honest look at addiction and recovery from director James Ponsoldt (who will also be here) also features Academy Award Winner Octavia Spencer.

Rust & Bone

Rust & Bone – This intense romance from Jacques Audiard pairs Oscar winner Marion Cotillard with Matthias Schoenaerts.   The gritty drama poses the question of what it means to be broken, emotionally or physically and how love can overcome both.  The leads’ performances have been receiving critical acclaim.  And the very compelling actor from Belgium Matthias Schoenaerts will also be here at the festival.  For sure we will be stalking…um politely looking to say hello.

Amour

Amour – Winner of this year’s Cannes Film Festival Palme D’Or the masterful drama from director Michael Haneke explores the true meaning of growing old together.   When Anne played by Emmanuelle Riva has a stroke it is her husband played by Jean-Louis Trintignant who must struggle to continue to care for her and keep her at home versus a nursing home, straining his relationship with his daughter, portrayed by the amazing Isabelle Huppert.

GSA Competition Films:

These films are from emerging filmmakers and eligible for a host of awards and are chosen for their promising skill and unique style.

Kuma

Kuma

A debut from Austrian director Umat Dag, this compelling and complicated drama portrays the intensity of female relationships both in bonding and betrayal.  A close knit Turkish family living in Vienna faces a dying matriarch and a new second wife for her husband.  The beautiful, young Ayes is a surprise in many ways and becomes the confessor to the family’s secrets as well as harboring a few of her own.

Jason Becker: Not Dead Yet

From director Jesse Vile we find a moving and surprising portrait of a guitar prodigy who was destined to become one of the greats.  Just as his dreams were about to come true with a tour with David Lee Roth he receives what you think would be a fatal diagnosis.  But Jason Becker has as much will as he has talent and is not one to be counted out.  It’s a wonderful film.

Bay Of All Saints

Bay of All Saints

The Hamptons are of course real-estate obsessed, but what if the 47% decided to dump garbage to fill in Hampton Bays and erect houses on stilts?  Annie Eastman’s documentary follows three women who live on the palafitas or shacks built on stilts in the biggest by in Bahia, Brazil.  Their struggles with poverty, the weather, and the government with its false promises create the drama she portrays over a six year period.

American Masters: Inventing David Geffen

While not in competition, this is a winning documentary directed by the ultra talented Susan Lacy (and Hamptons resident).  If ever you wonder how a man was made, this film gives incredible insight into this media legend.  It’s a musical fun ride through his history of the talented artists he managed and the films he brought to the screen.  It’s insightful and poignant and ultimately an inspiration to say to yourself – dream big.

Films of Conflict and Resolution:

This is always my favorite section.  For many in this country, we are tired of polarizing media and rhetoric and we tend to turn off.  As my friend says, our “give a shit” is broken.  These are the films to watch to turn that around.  Somewhere on the sliding scale of revenge to forgiveness is salvation.

Beyond Right and Wrong: Stories of Justice and Forgiveness

All the political rhetoric around war and foreign policy could be shoved to the side and this film shown in its place.  We’ve all drunk the polarizing drink Hate-orade which only embitters those with different views.  In this amazing documentary from Lekha Singh and Roger Spottiswoode, people in the most ravaged of war torn countries of Northern Ireland, Rwanda, Israel ,and Palestine come together to see if there is a road if not to national peace then to personal peace.   The subjects are the bravest of the brave — victims and their family’s killers coming face to face, seeking to humanize the inhuman.  As one mother states, “You have to tell the story of the enemy.  It is the ability to listen to the pain of the other.”

Call Me Kuchu

Call Me Kuchu

In Uganda, being gay can be a capital offense.   The film follows David Kato, the first openly gay many in Uganda and a leading advocate for the rights of the “kuchu” his fellow lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered compatriots.  Filmmakers Katherine Fairfax Wright and Malika Zouhali-Worrall follow him and his efforts even through his murder and the public outcry which followed, in a moving portrait.  The wicked glee of the anti-homosexual leaders is disturbing and a chilling reminder of hate and discrimination which is not isolated to a third world country.

Carolyn Kras, Doron Weber, Laura Oaksmith

Screenplay Reading: Selections From The Alfred P. Sloan Screenwriter’s Lab:

While film festivals tend to focus on the directors, movies would not exist without the writers.  Facing the blank page is the most brave and creative act in filmmaking.  The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation generously sponsors the Hamptons Screenwriters Lab.  I actually pitched the idea to HIFF’s then executive director and with the support of Doron Weber and the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation we launched the screenwriter’s lab 12 years ago.  Now it is flourishing and two of the screenplays which went through this year’s lab will be read by wonderful actors gathered by casting director Amy Devra Gossels CSA.  Academy Award winner Melissa Leo will be one of the performers.

The Buck Decision by Laura Oaksmith – George Stoddart, a reporter with two strikes against him, investigates a huge hospital cover-up, bringing one of the nation’s biggest atrocities to light, and finding redemption no only for himself, but for the victims involved.

Magnetic by Carolyn Kras – William Gilbert, a brilliant scientist who discovers the earth is a magnet, is ordered to save Queen Elizabeth I from a mysterious illness.  As he uncovers her personal secrets, an intense but dangerous attraction develops between them in which any misstep could cost him his life.

“We are proud to present such a stellar program for this year’s 20^th Anniversary edition of HIFF,” said Karen Arikian, Executive Director. “In addition to the incredible line-up of films this year, the Festival also has important new partnerships with industry leaders including the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the British Academy of Film and Television Arts, New York (BAFTA New York) and Variety. Thanks to the astute guidance of the Board of Directors, led by this year’s Honorary Chairman Alec Baldwin, and the commitment of our generous sponsors and patrons, we have been able to grow and fulfill our mission of the past 20 years: To exhibit the best and most thought-provoking independent films from around the globe.”

GAME ON!

For information on ticketing and a full slate of films www.hamptonsfilmfest.org.

By Heather Buchanan

Greetings at the third annual Harvest East End Food and Wine Classic went something like this:

“Orlmmm, yermm, hold on a sec and let me get a napkin.”  With so many delectable edibles and fine wines, it was literally hard to get a word in edgewise. Organized by Merliance and the Long Island Wine Council and presented by Wine Spectator, Harvest East End was the epicurean destination, held this year at the regal Hampton Classic show grounds.

Benefitting the East End Hospice, Group For The East End, and Peconic Land Trust, the event was a huge success and testament to the talented chefs and winemakers who magically turn the best local grapes and produce into unforgettable edible offerings.  The farms and vines are crucial not only to the scenic vistas of the Hamptons but sustainable agriculture.

Wolffer Estate Vineyards

Like children (if you happened to have thirty) it’s hard to pick favorites of the offerings but there were a few standouts.

Chef John Urbinati of The Fifth Season

The Fifth Season, Chefs Erik Orlowski and John Urbinati, Porf Jefferson

Corn Infused Ricotta Cheese With Roasted Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes on Multigrain Crostini

We learned if you take fresh corn off the cobb, puree it and pass it through a fine sieve the sugar and starch make it like a fine pastry cream you can fold into the ricotta.  Let’s just say it’s worth the effort in this wonderful dish.

Chef Joe Isidori of Southfork Kitchen

Southfork Kitchen, Chef Joe Isidori, Sagaponack

Sea Scallop Sashimi

Sustainable seafood is a Southfork Kitchen specialty.  This was an early and often destination for tasters.  The Wolffer Verjus with sweet chili sauce gave it just the right flavor.

Chef Robert Beaver of The Frisky Oyster

Frisky Oyster, Chef Robert Beaver, Greenport

Pipes Cove Oysters Friskafella

Once I found this station I was done, done, and done.  The garlic-scented spinach, chipotle, and parmigiano aoli with Greenport oysters was a warm, wonderful sensation.  Any fella in my frisky path after that had to look out.

The Riverhead Project Lobster Pierogies

The Riverhead Project, Chef Gregory Ling, Riverhead

Polish Town Lobster Pierogies

I’ve been hearing amazing things about this new restaurant.  Patience was definitely a virtue to wait for them to sauté up this amazing bite and pair it with a red wine-onion marmalade.  It made lobster rolls look absolutely pedestrian.

Heather Buchanan and Baroness Sheri de Borchgrave

A girl couldn’t ask for a better friend and guide than Baroness Sheri de Borchgrave who writes expertly about wine and spirits for Hamptons Cottages & Gardens.  She pointed out some of her favorites.

Leo and Tom Rosicki of Sparkling Pointe Vineyard

Sparkling Pointe

If you haven’t tried this Southold winery’s sparkling wine you are missing beautiful bubbly from wine maker Gilles Martin, created with the méthode champenoise.  We were a little in love with the Blanc de Blancs but when vineyard owners Cynthia and Tom Rosicki pulled out a reserve Blanc de Noirs with the tiniest hint of salmon color we were truly in heaven. At a $75 retail price this stands up to its French champagne cousins.  And as their motto goes, “If it’s not sparkling – what’s the point?”

Gramercy Vineyard's Carol Sullivan and Laruen DePalo

Gramercy Vineyards

You can claim to be truly hands on as a vineyard owner when you have a bent finger from a tractor injury.  Carol Sullivan literally bought the farm to create Gramercy Vineyards in Mattituck.  Even since the fine wines from winemaker Roman Roth have been receiving rave reviews.  The 2011 rosé was crisp and refreshing but the 2008 Merlot Reserve proved the gravitas of these fine wines.  With every grape hand picked and hand sorted, quality assurance is high.

Sherwood House Vineyards

A member of the Long Island Merlot Alliance, Merliance, Sherwood House Vineyards in Jamesport consistently puts out delicious wines.  At an $18 price point the Unoaked Chardonnay is one of our favorites.  When you reach up to the $45 Sherwood Manor, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot you have hit the big leagues with a smooth and rich flavor.

After perusing the amazing silent auction and raffle with prizes like a trip to Barbados, 20 magnums of Long Island Wine, and a Grand Tour with Wine Spectator you had to enter early and often.

In the end the biggest problem of the event was simply too many good choices.  Congrats to everyone for an amazing evening and when I start eating again next week I’m going to hit all my favorite restaurants and vineyards again.

Nacho Figueras and Donna Karan

by Heather Buchanan

Photos Rob Rich www.societyallure.com

Bridgehampton Polo celebrated the grand finale of its 16^th season on Saturday August 25th with a fabulous field-side flourish.  Team CIRCA emerged victorious over White Birch by a score of 11 to 10 in the Vertu Hamptons Cup.

Team CIRCA

The members of CIRCA and their ponies fought valiantly for the win in a close match which went down to the wire.  The Official Timekeeper of Bridgehampton Piaget had crucial importance.

Vertu's Aviya Landesberg and MVP Magoo Laprida

Aviya Landesberg of Vertu presented the winning trophies and a special Vertu Constellation luxury phone to MVP Magoo Laprida.  A perfect award for a world traveling player as Vertu comes with its own 24/7 hour global concierge service.

Gianpaolo De Felice, Mariano Aguerre, Califa

Gianpaolo De Felice of Zen Air presented the Best Playing Pony Award to Mariano Aguerre’s Califa – the polo pony who flew down the field almost as fast as one of Zen Air’s private jets.

Guests in the VIP tent were treated to the thrilling match and classic afternoon cocktail party.  Mother Nature finally turned more friend than foe and a balmy breeze wafted through the tent for the perfect Hamptons summer social gathering.  Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from Tutto Il Giorno and specialty summer cocktails from Grey Goose® Vodka.

Field-side lounges in the VIP tent set up the perfect viewing position.

Madame Mayhem

Madame Mayhem kicked things off singing the national anthem.  Keep an eye on this rising star with her new White Noise album coming out from famed producer Mark Hudson who’s worked with such greats as Aerosmith.

Geoffrey Zakarian, Shamin Abas, Bobby Flay, Sophie Flay, Samantha Yanks

It was a delicious double threat with Bobby Flay and Geoffrey Zakarian officiating the coin toss.  Luckily it’s always a win/win with these restaurateur royals.  Flay who was there with his daughter Sophie commented on his Bridgehampton Polo experience, “It’s the perfect closing for the season to watch skilled polo players and enjoy a great social scene.  It couldn’t be more beautiful here.”  Zakarian was also having a great time.  He joked, “I’ve never ridden.  I don’t want to hurt the horse.”  He gave us the scoop on the newest addition to his restaurant and food network empire – let’s call it a new sort of sea-food.  He’s expanding to include his restaurants on the Norwegian Cruise Line.

Bridgehampton Polo – A Family Affair

Samantha, David, Sadie Yanks

Hamptons Magazine editor Samantha Yanks who also officiated the coin toss considered it a successful season for her sponsorship.  “It’s wonderful to end the Bridgehampton Polo season on a high note,” she said, “I’m thrilled with what Shamin Abas did this year.  It’s chic and exclusive and a family-friendly environment.  How great is it that I get to come here with my husband and daughter and toss out the coin with Bobby and Geoffrey.”  Yanks spoke about her latest Hamptons Magazine cover star Emily VanCamp.  “She was the perfect choice as the star of the show Revenge about the underbelly of the Hamptons,” Yanks commented, “And she also wears clothes so beautifully.”  Unfortunately she didn’t reveal any of the secrets of the upcoming season.

Rob Wiesenthal, Donna Karan, Gianpaolo DeFelice

The family affair continued with Gianpaolo and Gabby Karan De Felice and their children.  Even Gabby’s mother Donna Karan joined in the family fun.  Gianpaolo noted, “Bridgehampton Polo has been a fantastic experience for our family.  We wish it was every weekend.”  For the jet setters setting sights on their next destination, De Felice’s Zen Air is the perfect private jet experience. As a second generation pilot, he puts safety upfront with service.  Luckily you don’t need to fly anywhere for their fabulous Tutto Il Giorno food which kept guests’ taste buds talking all season.  A high point is always seeing Tutto’s Chef and Co-owner Maurizio Marfoglia with his winning smile at polo.

Peter Brant II

The ever stylish Brant Brothers, Peter Brant II and Harry Brant were there to cheer on father Peter Brant, Bridgehampton Club Co-Founder and Owner, as he led team White Birch to a close second place finish.

Vertu's Aviya Landesberg awards Peter Brant

Kelly Bensimon also brought her daughters Sea and Teddy to enjoy the festivities.

Sea Bensimon, Kelly Bensimon,Teddy Bensimon

The Bridgehampton Polo Luxe Life

New Bridgehampton Polo Club Partner Nacho Figueras also lent his support from the sidelines to his fellow players.  He checked out the new Vertu phones at their cabana in the VIP tent. Those familiar with the brand and those encountering it for the first time had a gander.

Nacho Figueras at Vertu Lounge

Aside from the personal concierge service which comes with expert assistance, recommendations, and priority bookings, guests were also wowed by the .34 carats of inlaid precious gems and alligator skin covers on the Candy model or the high fidelity sound system or 32GB of fixed user memory ensuring plenty of storage of documents and images while on the road.  Your Vertu also gets you access to VIP experiences like Global Fashion Weeks and personalized styling at Stella McCartney.

Vertu Constellation Smile

And if you want to add charity into your luxury phone experience the Constellation Smile with every sale pays for a life-changing cleft surgery for less fortunate children.  The Vertu photo booth with polo props attracted guests for the perfect souvenir photo op.  They had iPads on hand for the guests to upload the photos to their social media outlets for the chance to win a private dinner party for 6 at their home with a top chef.

Star Jones and Nina Cooper

Of course it wouldn’t be Bridgehampton Polo without star power and who better than Star Jones to brighten the VIP tent.  Along with star power comes style power from Nicole Miller whose breezy colorful dresses have graced many a well dressed woman under the tent.

Nicole Miller and Shamin Abas

Polo proves that the perfect blush isn’t just reserved for brides.  The best accessory at Bridgehampton Polo of course is a cold glass of rosé.  The crisp rosé from St. Tropez, Bertaud Bellieu, graced the lips of many a connoisseur including chef Bobby Flay.

Bobby Flay

The Davidoff Cigar Garden proved a prime viewing area for the match and social hot spot.  Men and women were enjoying a puff on the smooth Davidoff cigars including star polo player Nic Roldan.

Nic Roldan

No one wants to admit to the end of summer so for that endless year-round summer, guests checked out the Jamaica tourism booth.  Marcia Sinclair noted, “We have a phrase which says ‘Once you go you know’” of the island’s loyal following.  She added, “We have a mix of all inclusive resorts, boutiques, and high end properties so we have something for every budget range.”

Marcia Sinclair

They held a raffle for a four day stay at the beautiful Round Hill Hotel and Villas with proceeds going to the community2community foundation to support relief efforts in Haiti.  Round Hill is a classic Caribbean resort offering a golden sand beach with water sports, tennis, golf, spa, and even a kid’s club with the legendary friendly Jamaican hospitality.  Check out their specials for travel from May to October 31.

Experimental Cocktail Club

The Jamaican vibe continued in the tent where the Experimental Cocktail Club has delighted guests with their unique weekly concoctions, this week offering the Jamaican Pogo with rum, lime, Habanero bitters, and smoked pineapple.  We’d be happy to experiment with these guys any time.  You will never go back to a pina colada again.

Pointy Snout Caviar

“Where’s the caviar?” became a common question in the tent where taste makers flocked to the official caviar of Bridgehampton Polo Pointy Snout Caviar.  This west coast eco-friendly company won fans who learned that any day can be the special occasion to enjoy this luxury.

Vendor Village Victories

Anna Trzebinski Boutique

Shopping is always a favorite pastime and guests flocked to the new Vendor Village for Yosi Samra luxury flats, Duck and Weave shirts, Silas Marder Gallery furniture, and gorgeous designs from Kenyan based Anna Trzebinski among others.

Michelle Farmer, RHONY Aviva Drescher

Chic shoppers stopped early and often at Michelle Farmer Collaborate.  Customers were enamored of her Pure Lino men’s linen shirts, The Whitewash collection dresses, and Michelle’s own designed dresses and shifts.  “It was great,” Michelle said, “We’d have women coming in and completely switching out their outfits for something new to wear to the match.”  Newscaster Alina Cho came in for a complete redo, emerging in a Pure Lino white linen dress and Michelle’s signature baroque pearl earrings.

Zico Coconut Water

The Zico Coconut Water also earned loyal followers, both health conscious foodies who knew the nutritional and hydrating benefits of their coconut water as well as the social butterflies who pronounced it a fantastic hangover cure.  Keep an eye out on Montauk beaches for their roving give-aways this week.

If there is a true Revenge in the Hamptons it is a life well lived.  Brigehampton Polo proves that.

Season-long sponsors include: The official Timekeeper Piaget, Zen Air as the exclusive Private Jet Service, Grey Goose© Vodka, Pointy Snout Caviar, Zico, Bertaud Belieu Wine, Town and Country Magazine, Davidoff, SmartWater, Quintessentially, Hamptons Magazine and the Financial Times.

As always a special Bridgehampton Polo shout out to the charity which receives the $25 entry fee per car – The Bridgehampton Day Care and Recreation Center.

What’s Your Hamptons Summer Bucket List?  Here’s some not to miss moments.

EVENTS:

Harvest East End – Saturday August 25^th 6p to 9p

Here is the food version of speed dating. No need to commit because you have so many delicious options of local food and wine from top chefs and vintners. Benefitting the Group For The East End, Peconic Land Trust, and East End Hospice this epicurean festival is a true delight. Be sure to check out their amazing silent auction and raffle. Organized by Merliance and the Long Island Wine Council and presented by Wine Spectator, Harvest East End will be the foodie destination, held this year at the Hampton Classic.

www.harvesteastend.com

The Hampton Classic August 26^th to September 2

This premiere equestrian event has everything from adorable pony hunters to the top show jumpers in the world just returned from the Olympic Games. Running from 8am to 5pm daily you will see hunters, jumpers and equitation. You can make a day of it shopping in the boutiques and having a glass of Louis Roderer champagne ringside.

Saturday Sept. 1^st is Optimum® Kids Day with pony rides, face painting, a family circus, magic tricks and all sorts of animals.

Sunday Sept. 2^nd at 2pm is the event highlight, the $250,000 FTI Grand Prix where the top riders will compete over a challenging jumping course for top prize money. It is the who’s who in the VIP Tent where the tables are as dressed up as the women. There are also grandstand seats available for viewing.

www.hamptonclassic.com

East Hampton Fireworks 2012

East Hampton Fireworks – Saturday Sept. 1^st – dusk

Main Beach is the premiere viewing spot for viewing the fireworks. Go early to get a spot and bring a picnic to enjoy the show. The town promises no nesting piping plover will be harmed.

www.easthamptonchamber.com

ART

artist Alexander Mijares

Alexander Mijares at the Capri Hotel Southampton – Sat. Aug 25^th 7 – 10p

This vibrant artist from Miami brings his colorful art work to the Capri Hotel in Southampton. Join in for specialty cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and sushi by NOBU as well as Music by NVM. Mijares shares his global perspective and inspiration from travel, culture, and of course women with viewers in this interesting display. Caliente.

www.mijares.com/

FILM & THEATER

Silas Marder Gallery Films on the Hay Wall – Friday August 31^st

With all the political debate swirling around here’s your chance to reconnect with a total classic – John Frankenheimer’s The Manchurian Candidate. To sit outside at the Silas Marder Gallery and bring a picnic, you have an old fashioned drive in movie feel. But with better sound. Starts at 9pm behind Marders Nursery in Bridgehampton.

www.silasmarder.com

The Hamptons International Film Festival Summer Doc “Ethel” – Sept. 1st

As part of its summer documentary series, HIFF will be presenting Ethel at Guild Hall in East Hampton. Alec Baldwin will be on hand to interview filmmaker Rory Kennedy. Ethel is an affectionate look at Rory’s mother and serves as both a testament to the power of family and a fascinating look at some of the momentous historical moments of the 50’s and 60’s. Act early as these screenings sell out quickly.

www.Guildhall.org

Big Maybelle: Soul Of The Blues at Bay Street Theater – through Sept. 2

Tony winner Lilias White stars as the legendary blues singer Maybelle Smith at Bay Street Theatre in Sag Harbor. There’s nothing like listening to the blues to make you feel luckier about your own life.

www.baystreet.org

LIVE MUSIC

Gorgeous summer nights ring with the sound of music. Your choices run the gamut from classical to reggae.

Salome Chamber Orchestra

Salomé Music Festival – Agawam Park Southampton Saturday Sept. 1^st 6:30pm

This free concert in the park will feature classical, operatic, and Broadway favorites with award winning viola soloist David Aaron Carpenter and soprano Amanda Bolland.  Check out their complete schedule of performances in the Hamptons.

www.salomechamber.org

The Perlman Music Program Alumni Recital – Kristin Lee on violin Sunday Sept. 2^nd 7:30

The famous music camp on Shelter Island for young musical virtuosos opens its doors to the public for this special alumni concert.

www.perlmanmusicprogram.org

See-I at The Surf Lodge Sunday Sept. 2^nd

It’s the worth the trip to Montauk to here this premier Reggae party band. It’s a last chance to get your chill groove on.

www.thesurflodge.com

LOCAL HARVEST AND BOUNTY

Wolffer Vineyard Wine Stand Sunset Friday – Friday August 31st 5p

Bring friends, your kids, well-behaved dogs, well behaved boyfriends, et al to listen to live music and enjoy Wolffer’s local wines at the Sagaponack vineyard. Life just looks better through rosé glasses. We hear the grapes are very happy this year so it could be a stellar vintage.

www.wolffer.com

Quail Hill Farm – The Great Tomato Taste Off – Sept. 1^st 9am to noon

Transport yourself from January biting into a bland grocery store tomato to the bursting flavor of over 50 types of tomatoes you can sink your teeth into at this famous event. Pick out your favorite.

Quail Hill Farm – Deep Lane, Amagansett

www.peconiclandtrust.org

Sag Harbor Farmer’s Market – Every Saturday

Along with a bounty of fresh produce you will find baked goods and seafood as well as local favorites Amagansette Sea Salt, Bee’s Needs Honey, Horman’s Best Pickles (truly!), Mecox Dairy Cheese, and Fat Ass Fudge. Located on Bay Street in front of the Breakwater Yacht Club it runs from 9am to 1pm.

http://sagharborfarmersmarket.org/

GET OUT ON THE WATER

Paddle Diva – Stand Up Paddle

If you haven’t tried the stand up paddle you are missing out on the chance to walk on water. Beginners to racers are enjoying this growing sport. How about making it an Olympic event? Whether you want to do a nature tour with Mike Bottini or SUP Dog Yoga with Jessica Bellafatto or learn how to tackle the ocean waves with Gina Bradley this is the time to get out there. Beware it is addicting.

www.paddlediva.com

Sport Fishing – Montauk

Holding some of the sports fishing world records, Montauk has a whole fleet of fishing boats for charter for half day or full day sails to find tuna, shark, or striped bass. They welcome beginners and experts and if you ask nicely will even bait your hook for you.

www.montaukchamber.com

FUNDRAISER

Azuero Earth Project – Azuero On The Harbor – Sept. 1

Held at the Springs harbor front home of artist Cindy Sherman, the inaugural fundraising event with feature a picnic of tapas and cocktails with an art auction and performances by Rufus Wainwright, Laurie Anderson, Ruben Blades and Luba Mason. The organization was founded to preserve the earth’s ecosystems and promote healthy living communities.

Tickets start at $1000

www.azueroearthproject.org

Laura Halsch, Katie DiNiero, Elizabeth Cergeran

By Heather Buchanan

Photos by Rob Rich www.societyallure.com

Safety first is the motto of Bridgehampton Polo so with the rain-slicked fields the match was cancelled to ensure safety of player and his trusted mount.  Both ponies and players enjoyed a day off with some of polo’s top stars stopping by the VIP tent to enjoy the afternoon reception including Mariano Aguerre, one of the few players to reach the perfect 10 goal handicap.

Antonio Aguerre, Mariano Aguerre,Alex Roldan

Quite an achievement when amateur players are even rated in the negative numbers.  Teams are evenly matched with equal total handicaps.  The VIP tent was still hopping with Bobby Flay and Stephanie March stopping by.

Bobby Flay & Stephanie March

Will and Anthony Nunziata serenaded the crowd as well as the soothing sounds of samba from Ludmilla.

Members of the James Madison University Equestrian Team

Guests in the VIP tent got the chance to check out the newest of Vertu phones, the market leader in luxury mobile phones.  Just like you have a casual and dress watch you can also have your dress phone.  I asked magician Kevin Nicholas if he could magically make the $9,500 Constellation Candy clad in raspberry alligator with .34 karats of rubies magically pop out of the case and magically reappear in my purse.

Pink With Envy for the Vertu Constellation

What elevates these high tech phones from competitions is the Vertu Concierge button, a free service which functions 24/7 and will help with anything from lost luggage in Hong Kong to finding an elephant for an Indian wedding.  Anything you can imagine (as long as it’s legal of course.)  This is for the luxury traveler presenting only the best of the best.  Your Vertu also gets you access to VIP experiences like Global Fashion Weeks and personalized styling at Stella McCartney.  And if you want to add charity into your luxury phone experience the Constellation Smile with every sale pays for a life-changing cleft surgery for less fortunate children.

The Vertu photo booth with polo props attracted guests for the perfect souvenir photo op.  They had iPads on hand for the guests to upload the photos to their social media outlets for the chance to win a private dinner party for 6 at their home with a top chef.  Will tweet for food!

The Vertu Grey Goose Ice Bar

Guests enjoyed the stylish Vertu lounge and their specialty ice cocktails made with Grey Goose Vodka.  Think delicious adult Italian ice.  The lemon basil with Grey Goose Citron was a winner.

Kevin Salyers, Jeff Leimsider, Donald Goodale, Cory Ezerman

If a polo match is cancelled, one of the best things you can do is find an attractive Frenchman and talk to him about wine.  Charles T. Moreau President of Bertaud Belieu USA has been connected to polo since a young age watching the Lancel Polo Cup in Deauville.  He found Bridgehampton Polo to be the perfect match (even sans match) for his wines.

Bertaud Belieu Rosé

Like Ray Bans or paddle board racks, rosé has become the must have summer accessory.  In the VIP tent at Bridgehampton Polo the big bottles of Bertaud Belieu elicit smiles of delight.  Moreau describes BB’s appeal, “It’s a mixed vibe between St. Tropez and St. Bart.  And it’s the perfect fit for the glamorous but relaxed environment in the Hamptons.”

Interestingly red wine, its big bouquet often associated with a big price tag, is trending down while rosé’s stock is rising.  Moreau notes, “Rosé can represent a lifestyle where you can still drink the best for under one hundred dollars.”  Charles predicts the biggest trend in 2013 will be rose colored drinks both wine and champagne.  What makes Bertaud Belieu stand out is its signature St. Tropez trademark.  Face it, if you were a grape where would you want to hang out?  Charles says, “It’s the character of the wine.  Like for humans, it’s all about love and life.”

Bertaud Belieu at Bridgehampton Polo

Fans of Bertaud Belieu find it in their favorite places like Bagatelle in St. Barth and New York and Lavo in New York and Las Vegas as well as emerging in Los Angeles.  Says Moreau, “There’s no shame in selling because we know we’ll have a happy customer.  The only concern we should have is enough product to sell.”

You will find it here at Wines By Morell in East Hampton, Herbert & Rist in Southampton and at Pierre’s in Bridgehampton where they produce his private label.

While smart men know that BB’s rosé is an incredible chick magnet, we asked the question, “Do real men drink rosé?” Charles noted that rosé is part of a lifestyle and polo proves every man should have a strong lifestyle.  Game on.

Rolls-Royce at Bridgehampton Polo

No doubt if Caesar was around today – he’d ditch the chariot for a new Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé.  Some very lucky Hamptons’ movers and shakers have had the chance to test out the styling ride whether it was looking at $30 million dollar houses (How else would you arrive?) or enjoying the ride out to Montauk to meet some chic friends at the Surf Lodge.  Inspired by the J-class yachts of the 30’s which were known for their performance and use of natural materials, the Phantom’s unique teak decking details turned the heads of a few sailing enthusiasts.  And with the bespoke program, you can custom create the interior with any of their 44,000 hues.  We wonder if we can match our favorite Essie nail polish “South of the Hi’way.”

Heather Buchanan shops with Irene O'Gara and Caryna Nina

While she may not have 44,000 hues, Caryna Nina has a broad color palette for her custom created designs.  The designer and personal stylist hand selects vibrant-hued fabrics admitting, “The only black I own is my Lululemon yoga pants.”  With a presence in Greenwich, Palm Beach, and Martha’s Vineyard, Caryna Nina has a loyal following who want to be unique, and with one-of-a-kind designs, “You’re never bumping into yourself,” she explains.  She suggests layering for different effects and demonstrates the perfect scrunch which makes her pieces a light-weight, wrinkle-free companion for travel.

Rep Keisha Holder of the US Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands present a number of reasons they are the perfect travel destination.  You don’t need a passport since it’s a U.S. territory, you have $1600 in duty free goods, the highest in the Caribbean, and their weather with its ocean breezes is not as humid as the Hamptons so no bad hair days.  They were raffling off a three night stay at the luxurious Ritz Carlton in St. Thomas.

Season-long sponsors include: The official Timekeeper Piaget, Zen Air as the exclusive Private Jet Service, Grey Goose© Vodka, Pointy Snout Caviar, Zico, Bertaud Belieu Wine, Town and Country Magazine, Davidoff, SmartWater, Quintessentially, Hamptons Magazine and the Financial Times.

As always a special Bridgehampton Polo shout out to the charity which receives the $25 entry fee per car – The Bridgehampton Day Care and Recreation Center.

About Bridgehampton Polo Club LLC

Bridgehampton Polo Club LLC is located at Two Trees Farm at 849 Hayground Road in Bridgehampton New York. The 2011 16th Anniversary Season will commence on July 21st for six consecutive Saturdays. The Monty Waterbury Cup kicks off the season and runs through August 4th, and the Vertu Hamptons Cup begins August 11th and runs through August 25th, 2012.

For up-to-date polo information, please contact the Bridgehampton Polo Line at 631-237-5388. For general information or questions, please email bhpolo@shaminabaspr.com.

Listen up fans of Sunset Beach.  Attention s’il vous plait.  Gilt City has a special offer right now for a three course dinner at Sunset Beach on Shelter Island hosted by Lee Schrager, the impresario behind the Food Network South Beach and the New York City Food and Wine Festivals.

Executive Chef Mark Zeitouni

On Sunday August 19^th you’ll get not only the gorgeous sunset views with their very female flattering hues but Mark Zeitouni, the Executive Chef from Miami’s The Standard Spa to walk you through each course.  André Balazs Reserve Rosé will accompany the meal as well as rosé sangria and frozen margaritas at the cocktail hour.

http://www.giltcity.com/newyork/sunsetbeachnyc

Act fast – this is a limited sale.  Vite, vite!

Dick Cavett

By Heather Buchanan

If you ventured under the tent for the East Hampton Library Author’s Night 2012 on Saturday you were treated to a vast array of literary talent.  You simply felt smarter.  With so many accomplished authors in one place you had to do a bit of speed dating, or perhaps more aptly speed reading.  Each of the 120 writers had a tale to tell ranging from novels to biographies, memoirs, cooking, decorating, self help and children’s books.  The event which was followed by private author dinners held in some of the Hamptons most beautiful homes benefits the East Hampton Library.  Luminaries such as Robert A. Caro (who still works on an electronic typewriter) and Lynn Sherr are long time card-carrying members.

How can you beat an event that also has Alec Baldwin, Barbara Goldsmith, Ken Auletta, David Baldacci, Dick Cavett, Dava Sobel, Martin Amis, and Hilary Knight?

Here’s a taste of our literary pu pu platter:

Philip Galanes

Philip Galanes – Social Q’s

The highly entertaining New York Times columnist brings his unique wit to support or scold social etiquette questioners.  When asked his biggest pet peeve in the Hamptons, Galanes replied, “I was nearly run over four times today.  I’m begging everyone to slow down.”

Jamee Gregory

Jamee Gregory – New York Parties, Private Views

As one of the Hampton’s most revered hostesses, Jamee Gregory also had advice to offer.  “If you are hosting a party you have to have a good time yourself, it’s contagious.  A happy and relaxed hostess is the best,” unless of course as she added of her party the night before you have a tornado watch.  “Sometimes you just have to roll with it,” she said with a smile.  With gorgeous photographs by Eric Striffler, this book is a must have for those who realize imitation is the highest form of flattery.

Christina Haag, Missy Hargrave

Christina Haag – Come To The Edge

Now out in paperback, this timeless romantic memoir is your summer must-read.  Not only do you get a fascinating insight into a young John F. Kennedy Jr. but a lyrical look at intimacy and how not only we meet but part from great loves.  Christina Haag is indebted to the Hamptons for providing her the tranquil writing retreat she needed to chronicle her relationship with JFK Jr.  “This place supports writers with its culture and also its inspiring natural beauty,” she said.  Of the incredible feedback she has gotten Haag commented, “A year and a half later it’s very gratifying.  People connect with the book on so many different levels whether it’s with John or the story itself.  It was the reason to do it.”

Tom Clavin, Danny Peary

Tom Clavin and Danny Peary – Gil Hodges

These talented biographers reveal the truth behind another famous figure, baseball great Gil Hodges.  Danny Peary said, “It’s an unknown story about a one-of-a-kind personality in baseball.  Hodges was shy even talking to Little Leaguers.  Not only was he a great player but manager.  I grew up in the 50’s and 60s as a fanatical baseball fan and this is the chance to get rid of the distortion and set the record straight on one of the all time greats.”

Jene Luciani

Jene Luciani – The Bra Book

If you’re talking about great All Americans, namely those found below a woman’s chin you have to read The Bra Book.  Jene laughed as she recounted, “Women with bigger boobs are all coming over saying, ‘I have to talk to you.’”  This journalist and style expert was inspired by the incredible feedback she received from an article she wrote on bras.  “The women were going crazy on the message boards,” she recounted.  She decided women needed to be educated and empowered and wrote “the book” covering everything from puberty to menopause and pregnancy to mastectomy.  Her best bra advice, “Make an investment in a department store brand in the $70 range then care for it well.  It’s the best ROI.”

Stewart Lane

Stewart Lane – Jews On Broadway

Stewart Lane walks the walk and talks the talk.  In love with the theater from his youth where he knew Sid Caesar, this fan not only followed but led the way.  Currently producing Gore Vidal’s “The Best Man,” three productions of “War Horse,” preparing a revival of “Jekyll & Hyde,” and writing the book for “A Moment in Time” with John Denver’s music, you wonder how Lane has time for history.  His story recounts three generations in the Jewish theater and reveals his clear passion for the stage.

Michael Shnayerson

Michael Shnayerson – Harry Belafonte, My Song

If there is anyone who can take real life and weave a compelling tale it is Michael Shnayerson.  Fans of his fascinating features in Vanity Fair will see his raconteur skills in Harry Belafonte, My Song, A Memoir.  The challenge for Shnayerson was to write a memoir in first person, channeling the voice of a black entertainer and activist another generation older than himself.  He commented, “It was a thrill to meet with Harry for 150 hours.  He’s the most amazing storyteller I have ever interviewed.”  Not only is it the journey of a beloved entertainer but a leader in the civil rights movement in the kitchen cabinet of Martin Luther King.

Sarah Hagen, Christine Jahnke

Christine Jahnke – The Well Spoken Woman

Want to know who is the secret weapon of Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton and Kirsten Gillibrand?  It’s a speech coach based in Washington DC who travels all over the country, Christine Jahnke.  She says of her passion, “We need more women in leadership.  Women are more likely to psyche themselves out.  We are so much harder on ourselves than men.  The key is to get past the minor stuff and to the substance.”  The Well Spoken Woman is the practical guide book to help women (and men) reach the top of their game.

Tracey Jackson

Tracey Jackson – Between A Rock And A Hot Place: Why Fifty Is Not The New Thirty

No matter what your age – hot flashes were spreading throughout the tent.  But Tracey Jackson knows the best way to tackle any subject is with humor… and a good lip gloss.  She takes on the myth of aging admitting, “Nothing feels like thirty at fifty.”  The truth is liberating, and one of the best things about being a writer is that your words are always in good shape.  Jackson certainly knows how to entertain.  When asked about the next milestone of sixty she replied, “Wow, sixty.  I just want to get there.”  We’re sure she’ll do it in literary style.

Dr. Ruth Westheimer

Dr. Ruth Westheimer – Sexually Speaking

It’s true that great things come in small packages.  Dr. Ruth is just as vibrant as ever and was enjoying her first experience at the East Hampton Library’s Author’s Night despite the heat.  “Next time I’d rather not be here in August,” she joked, “but I’m having a great time at the event.”  Dr. Ruth’s frank sex talk has been translated into 27 languages, an Australian fan even stopping by at the event  to say hello.  Of Sexually Speaking she noted, “I worked with a gynecologist and this book has what every woman needs to know about her health.”  But what about the men?  One gentleman stopped by and asked what she had for him.  She smiled and pointed to her other book on the table, Sex For Dummies.

By Heather Buchanan

photos by Rob Rich www.societyallure.com

The third time is the charm for Bridgehampton Polo where the weather gods cooperated to allow match play on August 4th.  Larry Boland, President of Piaget N.A. the Official Timekeeper of Bridgehampton Polo commented, “Rain or shine, Bridgehampton Polo is a great fit for Piaget…though we prefer sunshine! We’re looking forward to welcoming our clients out this weekend to enjoy the festivities and hopefully, another exciting match.”

Veronica Webb, CIRCA's Chris Del Gatto

Premier private jet company Zen Air co-founders Gianpaolo de Felice and David Zara presented the trophy where CIRCA’s Magoo Laprida was named MVP.  Robert Shepherd of  Edmiston & Company, a world leader in yachting sales, charters, and management presented the trusty mount with the Best Playing Pony Award.

Bridgehampton Polo Gianpaolo de Felice, Magoo Laprida

Robert Shepherd of Edmiston & Co. presents award

While Bridgehampton Polo Club partner and star player Nacho Figueras and his team KIG were not victorious on Saturday, his sons performed valiantly on the field during a special 12 Year Olds and Under chukker to give fans a glimpse of the next generation of polo players.

Bridgehampton Polo Junior Players

Speaking of the next generation, Sag Harbor’s own Dylan Jenet captivated the crowd with her singing of the National Anthem.  “That was amazing,” she said, “To be out there in the field with the wind blowing – how great.”  The fourteen year old already has a Native American Music Award for Best Pop Artist under her belt.

Dylan Jenet sings the National Anthem

Bridgehampton Polo – A Family Affair

Elaina, Julia, Rosanna Scotto

It was also a thrill for WNYW’s Rosanna Scotto who got to toss out the opening ball.  “It was very exciting,” she said smiling, “Especially with Nacho saying ‘Rosanna throw the ball to me!’”  Her sister Elaina Scotto and niece Julia lent moral support and an additional pitching arm.

David, Sadie, and Samantha Yanks

Hamptons Magazine Editor Samantha Yanks also enjoyed the day with husband David and daughter Sadie.

Raw Kim, Gabby Karan de Felice

Bridgehampton Polo has certainly become a family affair for Gabby Karan de Felice who with husband Gianpaolo sponsor not only with Zen Air but as the Bridgehampton Polo Official Caterer Tutto Il Giorno (order your special picnic basket by Wednesday before the match polo@tuttoilgiorno.com.)  Bridgehampton Polo is the Saturday afternoon destination for the whole family including kids and grandmother Caralina who created my favorite eggplant and mozzarella penne dish.

Gianpaolo de Felice, Shamin Abas

“I was so excited to reinvent polo,” said Gabby. “I knew with Shamin Abas putting it together and Angela Giannopoulos creating the décor combined with what I could do with the food and the wait staff (all dressed in DKNY) it would be great.  It’s smaller and more elite.  My kids love it — my son hands out the Zen Air fans.  It’s us being together as a family which is what the Hamptons are all about.”  In the heat the Zen Air fans are the new “must have accessory” at Bridgehampton Polo.

Zen Air fans

Who’s Who Under the Bridghampton Polo VIP Tent

Nigel Barker

The VIP tent at Bridgehampton Polo also hosted a number of arbiters of style including Lady Liliana Cavendish, Nina Griscom, Jason Binn, philanthropist Jean Shafiroff and even Nigel Barker a judge on America’s Next Top Model.  Designer Steven Gambrel who literally wrote the book on chic Hamptons lifestyle, Time and Place, said, “I ride here at the farm and it’s so nice to see the polo in action.  It’s a great interaction with half socializing and half watching the amazing game.”

Nina Griscom, "Pancho," Leo Piraino

Even Jonathan Cheban took time away from BFF Kim Kardashian and his new ventures JetSet Jewelry and elitedaily.com to stop by.

Jonathan Cheban

You have to add a dash of Hollywood into a VIP mix and we got the scoop from TV producer Chris Brancato about the new NBC series Hannibal a prequel to the movie.  Brancato credits the creative genius of Bryan Fuller for the script which attracted amazing talent like Laurence Fishburne, Hugh Dancy, Caroline Dhavernas and Mads Mikkelsen who won Best Actor in Cannes this year and is the perfect incarnation of Hannibal according to Brancato.  Watch for it this fall.

Chris Brancato, Heather Buchanan, Alex

And talking of star power — DJ Cassidy whose celebrity client list includes everyone from President Barack Obama to LeBron James to Beyonce stopped in for a spin of the VIP tent of Bridgehampton Polo.

DJ Cassidy

Bridgehampton Polo Luxury Tips Of The Day

We caught up with Robert Shepherd President of Edmiston & Company America, a world leader in mega and super yacht sales, charters, management and new construction.  The company handles mostly 150’ to 250’ sail and motor yachts with bases in Manhattan, Monte Carlo, London, Antibes and Mexico City.  Let’s just say there are no bad business trips in that company.

Ester Barney, Robert Shepherd, Karen Shepherd

Shepherd noted, “I have a great client who is a polo player.  There’s a real cross over in yachting and polo as both are the sport of gentlemen.”  About his company’s sponsorship of Bridgehampton Polo he commented, “I get more value out of this than print.  It’s the chance to get out and meet people.  Many of my clients have homes here so it makes for great social marketing.”

The latest and greatest mega yachts now have gyms, spas, plunge pools, cinemas, and even their own helicopter landing pads.  Edmiston & Company managed the construction of the 77 meter M/Y TANGO which won Motor Yacht of the Year at the 2012 World Superyacht Awards.  Okay, no need to be shy, we are definitely angling for a ride.

Coral King, Ania Gray

Jet setters looking for endless summer took note of the Anguilla Tourist Board’s boutique.  If you haven’t been to Anguilla you’re missing amazing beaches, five star cuisine, and super friendly people.  Ania Gray of the ATB also pointed out the appeals of the cays around the island such as Sandy Island where they filmed ABC’s The Bachelor.  While there isn’t polo on the island, there is another famous stick and ball game which draws many visitors – golf.

They held a special raffle to win a three day’s stay at the luxury resort Cap Juluca to benefit the J/P Haitian Relief Organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing sustainable programs to the Haitian people with Coral King presenting the prize to the lucky winner.

Hayley Severns of Anna Trzebinski

The Anna Trzebinski boutique was turning heads.  In her Kenya-based workshop of tribal women Anna uses authentic indigenous designs as inspiration and draws on the rich colors and raw materials of Africa.  Each piece is a unique work of art.  The amazing scarves featured flamingo, ostrich, and guinea fowl feathers with intricate hand beading on not only the scarves but gladiator sandals.  As Hayley Severns said of the brand which has fans such as Naomi Campbell, “It’s created with consciousness.”  That’s a win win for the unique fashionista.

Hot Day = A Long Cold Drink

Grey Goose Vodka summer cocktails

There were a few winners off the field as well as guests enjoyed some refreshing summer cocktails.  The Grey Goose® Vodka Hamptons Punch made with Grey Goose® Vodka, fresh white grapefruit juice, basil simple syrup and strawberries looked just as lovely as it tasted.  We are definitely nominating this for our special drink for The Lovely Hour.  The Lovely Hour: Like Happy Hour, Only Prettier.

The Experimental Cocktail Club and Pointy Snout Caviar

The Experimental Cocktail Club amazed us again with a special cocktail perfectly paired with Pointy Snout Caviar, the official caviar of Bridgehampton Polo club.  This week ECC delighted us with the Black Friar composed of gin, falernum, lime, green tea, ginger syrup and soda.

Fans of Zico Coconut Water

Guests also knew the best way to stay hydrated with the special electrolyte enhanced SmartWater and Zico Coconut Water.

Of course there is nothing like the classic cold glass of rosé from Bertaud Belieu Wine.

Field-side garden areas gave patrons an unparalleled view of all the high goal polo action with VIP tailgating and the Davidoff Cigar Garden where guests enjoyed complimentary cigars presented by the Swiss luxury tobacco company.

Michelle Farmer, Jesse Elliot

The Vendor Village featuring a variety of specialty goods, products and fashions from local merchants, including Michelle Farmer Collaborate, Peyman Umay custom suiting, Duck and Weave, Silas Marder of Marders custom outdoor furniture was enjoyed by all.  Be sure to check out Michelle Farmer Collaborate on Thursdays in Bridgehampton where Jesse Elliot custom creates gorgeous dresses.

And as a nod to the dog days of summer, these Afghans Skyler and Victor managed to look cool.

Dennis Banks and Dawn Neeway

Season-long sponsors include: The official Timekeeper Piaget, Zen Air as the exclusive Private Jet Service, Grey Goose© Vodka, Pointy Snout Caviar, Zico, Bertaud Belieu Wine, Town and Country Magazine, Davidoff, SmartWater, Quintessentially, Hamptons Magazine and the Financial Times.

As always a special Bridgehampton Polo shout out to the charity which receives the $25 entry fee per car – The Bridgehampton Day Care and Recreation Center.

About Bridgehampton Polo Club LLC

Bridgehampton Polo Club LLC is located at Two Trees Farm at 849 Hayground Road in Bridgehampton New York. The 2011 16th Anniversary Season will commence on July 21st for six consecutive Saturdays. The Monty Waterbury Cup kicks off the season and runs through August 4th, and the Vertu Hamptons Cup begins August 11th and runs through August 25th, 2012.

For up-to-date polo information, please contact the Bridgehampton Polo Line at 631-237-5388. For general information or questions, please email bhpolo@shaminabaspr.com.

By Heather Buchanan

If you’ve never descended down the rabbit hole to Robert Wilson’s Watermill Center’s annual gala, you have missed one of most coveted experiences in Hamptons fundraising.  This year’s Big Bang proved that the creative spirit is alive, well and being nurtured, raising over $1.5 million for the Watermill Center’s year round artist residency and education programs.  With input from all these creative minds this was no business-as-usual benefit under the big top.

There was na’er a plastic glass of cheap wine nor blue blazer to be found.  More like decorated dread locks from designer and artist Carolyn Ramirez , feathered hats  from National Arts Club Curator Stacy Engman and cool kimonos from textile guru Jack Lenor Larsen as well as fine wine from Mouton Rothschild.

Artist Carolyn Ramirez

Harry Brant, Stacy Engman, Samantha Zaitz, Peter Brant Jr.

Jack Lenor Larsen

Misaki Kawai big bubbles

Guests entered through Misaki Kawai’s big bubbles which matched perfectly the specialty Bacardi cocktails and emerged at the rear of the center to experience Wang Qingsong’s competition, an amazing decoupage of the whole building.

Wang Qingsong competition

Far from a bore –  this creative benefit gave whole new meaning to the cock-tale hour.

Semi naked men and women in the woods, mysterious black boxes, pentagrams, dancing in the mud, and an artist, Paula Garcia in magnetized body gear, being pelted with flying nails and scrap metal promised and an extraordinary evening.

Paula Garcia series noise body

Luckily there were a cadre of attractive men with umbrellas escorting guests through the rain.   One chivalrous man offered me shelter under his and to my delight, I discovered it was Chris Harrison, host of ABC’s The Bachelor and The  Bachelorette.  As a devoted fan, it was a surreal moment to meet him in the forest, and I have to say he’s more handsome than any of the hunks on the show.  I pitched the Hamptons as an episode destination, only imagining the fun the contestants could have here.

Kitty Huffman endgame

The rain only added to the surreal feel and any woman who wouldn’t brave ruining her blow out missed a wild ride through the enchanted forest.  I don’t know if it’s just reading too much Fifty Shades of Grey but the scary men in ninja suits were a strange turn on.  These art and performance installations incited  intense discussions not to mention some crazy dreams.

Desi Santiago mass 2

If you waited and watched, surprises might follow like Atopos CVC + Craig Green, Home Sweet Home where black boxes were opened to reveal their secret contents.

Atopos CVC + Craig Green home sweet home

The guards at Buckingham Palace have nothing on these performers.  They are steadfast in their concentration and immunity to distraction, even in a downpour.

Hanna Reidmar slingshot

Kembra Pfahler the voluptuous horror of karen black

Kembra Pfahler and the voluptuous horror of karen black proved that not only do you need waterproof mascara but waterproof body make up if you’re going to perform in the rain.

Chris Engel & Kathie Russo

The guests comprised the who’s who of the art and design.  The Benefit Chairs included: Jay McInerney, Anne Hearst McInerney, Rufus Wainwright, Lou Reed, Lisa Anastos, Jorn Weisbrodt, Charles Renfro, Lisa Perry, Shaikha Paula al Sabah, Henry Buhl, Dorothy Lichtenstein, Tatiana & Campion Platt, Louise Blouin, Stewart Lane & Bonnie Comely. The world class silent auction was highlighted by Cindy Sherman’s winning bid on Otto Piene’s stunning guilded work. A few savvy guests closely followed art patron Beth Rudin deWoody to see whose work she was bidding on.  This was inevitably the stamp of approval for the numerous bids which followed such as on Terry Richardson’s delicious “Pink Lips.”

Pink Lips by Terry Richardson

The Big Bang proved that nothing can dampen a spirited evening of the arts.  I have to give a shout out to the bartenders who graciously gave me shelter in the middle of the woods.  To Sam and Luke – cheers!

Heather Buchanan with Sam & Luke

You can get a taste of the whole experience on August 12th at the Discover Watermill Day which is free and open to the public.  Also be sure to check out their lecture and performance schedule because once you experience the rabbit hole, you have to get back to Watermill Wonderland.

more info  www.watermillcenter.org

Nicole Miller

By Heather Buchanan

Photos by Rob Rich www.societyallure.com

Although rain cancelled the polo match, the exclusive party in the VIP tent at Bridgehampton Polo continued on Saturday July 28th.  Designer Nicole Miller didn’t get the chance for the opening coin toss, but still displayed her signature style.  Many a fashionable Hamptons woman was checking the weather on her iPhone with its special Nicole Miller designed case.

Guests were treated to a preview of the newest models from Rolls-Royce.  While polo ponies aren’t keen on the rain, these luxury rides performs in any weather, even having an RR umbrella secretly stashed in a compartment inside the door.  I asked if I could get the same pop out for my favorite lipstick and not only did they say they’d work on it, they’d even match the interior color of the car to my favorite shade.

The secret umbrella stash

This top name in luxury cars is actually two.  Founders Charles Rolls and Henry Royce wanted to produce the world’s best cars at the turn of the twentieth century using only the finest materials.  Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was licensed to BMW in 1998 and the incredible horse power engine is made in Germany and the cars hand-finished by 60 auto artisans in England.

Michelle Farmer & Derek Warburton

Your wish is Rolls-Royce’s command.  Top jewelry designer Michelle Farmer learned that she could even have a safe installed in her “boot” to transport her precious baubles.

The boot can be customized to include a refrigerated cooler and wine rack with a special fold-out door creating a picnic bench.  For the top-end Bridgehampton Polo tailgater all you have to do is add a special picnic basket from Tutto Il Giorno including their hand-made Burrata flown in from Italy (be sure to order by Wednesday for the Saturday match polo@tuttoilgiorno.com.)

Kristina Marchitto & Carolyn Flamm

For the long-legged beauties in short skirts, getting in and out of the Rolls-Royces, the special “coach door” allows lady-like access with a special switch seat-side to close the door in case the chauffer isn’t at hand.  In the rain the black Ghost (starting at $250,000) with its extended wheel base had enough interior room to house its own party, and if the occupants wanted to make it private, with a push of a button the curtains would close.

Peyman Umay

The Phantom Drophead Coupé (convertible to you and me) had flocks of stylish admirers.  The Phantom (starting at $490,000) brought out many a man and woman’s inner James Bond with its heads up display where speed and navigation appear on the windshield so you don’t even have to look down.

And in the “they’ve thought of everything” category – their iconic hood emblem, The Spirit of Ecstasy, comes in gold plate, crystal, or can be illuminated from the inside.  Its special security system kicks in when anyone tries to pull it off, automatically retracting it into the hood.

While it used to be that you had to be a Rolls-Royce owner to be in line for the newest models, you can still get your name on the list for the newest 2013 models due in October.  For the potential customer you can also arrange through the Rolls-Royce Experiences Concierge to have a loaner for a day or be picked up to go to dinner to get the hands on experience here in the Hamptons through mid August.  We have the inside scoop on that at HipHamptons if you email us heather@hiphamptons.com.

CAVIAR, CIGARS, AND CRYSTAL BOWL COCKTAILS ARE NOT JUST FOR CELEBRATIONS

Tom Bodkin

The lessons learned under the VIP Tent at Bridgehampton Polo included that the finest things in life don’t have to be reserved for special occasions.  Although we do have to give a shout out of Happy Birthday to Tom Bodkin of the New York Times.  We fellow Leos like to celebrate in style.

Tasmin Imrie

I actually had my eye on the most fantastic glitter shorts from the Imrie Boutique.  The family operation designs everything from Julian Boots to jewelry and clothes.

Pointy Snout Caviar

Owner Michael Kline of Pointy Snout Caviar pointed out that great caviar isn’t just for New Years but perfectly pairs with cocktails on a Saturday afternoon.  “Throw out the rules and be free to treat yourself,” he advised.  Guests clearly took his advice.  Alexandra Du Cane explained the secret to their success is that their farm raised White Sturgeon are free from pollutants found in the open seas and despite the fact that they are all fed the same diet, each fish will produce a slightly different tasting caviar (which apparently are never mixed to preserve the flavor.)

Patrick Dougherty, Andrew Goldman, Dimitri Georgieve

The rain didn’t dampen spirits, only matches, as in the light-my-fire kind.  The Davidoff Cigar Garden visitors faced lighting challenges with wet matches, yet as one gentleman commented, “It’s not really a tough life if that’s all we have to complain about.”  They said normally they were only “celebration” cigar smokers but were tempted to try Davidoff for the first time and commented on its smooth flavor.  “We’ve grabbed a few for later,” they admitted.

The cancellation of the match was a disappointment to Romée De Goriainoff, founder of the Experimental Cocktail Club, who had flown in from Paris for the game.  “It will have to remain in my imagination,” he joked.  Romée picked Bridgehampton Polo for his U.S. debut of his highly successful bar and restaurant venture to complement the ECC’s opening in New York City on the Lower East Side.  “This is the only sport that is still as it was fifty years ago,” he commented.  “It’s high quality without being flashy — very classy and chic.”  It matches his vision for the perfect cocktail with the freshest ingredients paired with high end spirits.

ECC's Xavier Herit

The ECC cocktails expertly mixed by Xavier Herit ranged from the “Grass Kilt” featuring Great King blended scotch whiskey infused with pineapple, honey and cinnamon to the “Captain Grog” with three different types of rum, almond, vanilla, grapefruit, and maple syrup.  Romée commented, “Punches are the monarch of drinks and historically the first cocktails.”  Served in vintage crystal bowls and glasses, it added a great presentation.  After one of the Captain Grogs I no longer worried about my humidity hair which resembled a growing Chia Pet.

The Experimental Cocktail Club began with Romée and his partners’ desire to create a lively bar and social scene.  What became a hit in Paris extended to London and recently crossed over to the U.S.  In terms of locations, Romée said they picked places they themselves would like to go. It’s easy to see why everyone would want to follow the charming Frenchman. We hope despite the poor weather the Hamptons might be considered for a new ECC home.  Perhaps the day would inspire a new cocktail called “Hamptons Rain Water.”

Stacey Gordon from Quintessentially, the global private members concierge club, has tapped Bridgehampton Polo as their VIP experience for their New York members.  They also have a Southampton pop up club with wellness classes, charity events and even sunset reggae.  Their high goal game is to create memorable moments where their members get to mingle.

Ed Burke & Shamin Abas

Shamin Abas with her dedicated team at Shamin Abas PR knows how to curate the perfect crowd.  The VIP Tent at Bridgehampton Polo proved that if you are in good company, even the ultimate bad hair day can’t ruin your fun.

As always a special Bridgehampton Polo shout out to the charity which receives the $25 entry fee per car – The Bridgehampton Day Care and Recreation Center.

For more information bhpolo@shaminabaspr.com or call 631-237-5388.

Jimena Fama

If you look at the list of accomplishments of Jimena Fama you might be expect someone far older than this young Argentinean beauty who has taken the musical world by storm with Tango Conspiracy.  “Normally you meet someone who really knows tango or really knows electronic music,” notes Jimena, “It’s rare to find someone who understands both.” She explains that traditional tango can be intimidating and she is finding a way with her compositions to translate tango to the next generation.  “This way it’s easy for people to feel the music and get into it,” she says.  Having played piano, guitar, bass and drums, Jimena knows exactly what she wants from her bands to create her original sound.

Jimena Fama & Tango Conspiracy

If you are looking for the perfect accompaniment to your Hamptons summer soiree you have to download her sexy stylish music.

Jimena and her bands have performed for the Polo Beach Cup in Miami, the Metropolitan Gala for Robert De Niro, Samuel L Jackson, Spike Lee, Larry Gagosian at Art Basel, the Guggenheim Museum, and the New World Symphony.  They will be headlining tonight the New York Tango Festival.

The last four albums Jimena did for a branded collection named “Electro Dub Tango” and she is currently working on her Tango Conspiracy album.  As a matter of fact there is a Hamptons Mix of one of her tracks Mundo Bizarro that will be the first cut.

The Hamptons have served as an inspiration for Jimena recently.  “Compared to the craziness of New York City, the Hamptons are so laid back and simple.  Even though it has the high economic status, it has a humble vibe.  Very chill.”  A favorite Hamptons hot spot for Jimena is La Maison Blanche on Shelter Island where she has a real knack for Petanque.

You may be familiar with Jimena’s songs which have been featured in Dancing With The Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, compilations in Europe (France Nikki Beach, Portugal, Germany, London) and on the Starbucks exclusive album with the best 12 pieces of Tango, including her songs with the best Tango composers of the World (Piazzolla, Yo Yo Ma, etc.)

La Bohemia

TV: Dancing w the Stars (US)

TV: So you think you can Dance (Canada)

Compilations: Nikki Beach (US-France)

Beginners Guide to Tango Lounge (UK)

Novecento (US)

Tango CLub Night Vol 2 (Germany)

Mundo Bizarro (Dub Version)

Starbucks * Tango Variations (US/ Canada)

Bar Tango (UK)

The finest World Beats (Portugal)

LAMC 2011 Locals Band we Love (US)

Check out www.tangoconspiracy.net

and on iTunes under Tango Conspiracy and Electro Dub Tango

You can catch Tango Conspiracy July 27^th at the New York Tango Festival at the Baruch Performing Arts Center in NYC www.celebratetango.com.

August 2^nd they will be forming at Nublu in NYC www.nublu.net

They’ll be out here in the Hamptons for a private party August 3^rd

You can also catch them every Wednesday at Novocento in Soho at 343 Broadway with a tango lesson at 7pm and Tango Conspiracy at 8:30.

Every other Tuesday (July 31, August 14^th, August 28^th) they will be at Downhouse in Brooklyn at 250 Avenue X with tango lesson at 9pm and Tango Conspiracy at 10p.

Your first clue was the number of Rolls Royces parked out front that there was a veritable who’s who of the art, design, and Hamptons social set at the Parrish Art Museum’s Midsummer Gala.  This year celebrated the “creative spirit of the East End” on July 14^th by honoring director/choreographer Patricia Birch, visual artist Chuck Close, author/historian Barbara Goldsmith, interior designers Tony Ingrao and Randy Kemper, musician G.E. Smith, and choreographer Paul Taylor.

Terrie Sultan, Chuck Close

Parrish Executive Director Terrie Sultan commented, “It is bittersweet to celebrate our last Midsummer Party here on the grounds on Jobs Lane. And it is an opportunity for us to honor the Museum’s illustrious past in the Village. But at the same time, it is a rousing send off for us as we look to the Parrish of the future—to a new, world class home in Water Mill, where we will be centrally located for the entire East End audience to see and experience masterworks on view permanently for the first time in the Museum’s history. The next Midsummer Party will be on the lovely covered terrace, and we are certainly looking forward to that!”

Whitney Fairchild, Alexandra Stanton

Event Co-Chair Alexandra Stanton added of the new museum set to open in the fall, “For anyone who has ever built a house it is amazing that it comes in on budget.”  It is a sign of the deep pockets and artistic passion of their generous board and donors that $26 million could be raised in a down economy.

Bridget Fleming & Dan Rizzie

Bridget Fleming who is running for a seat in New York State Senate District #1 noted that these events are not only great for energizing the community but the chance to meet old and new friends as well as constituents.  She personally was thrilled to meet honoree Chuck Close.

Honorees Tony Ingrao, Barbara Goldsmith, Randy Kemper

Ingrao and Kemper commented they were surprised but happy to be honored noting, “There are so many artists on the East End, and there are all forms of art.  Design is one, and we’re in charge of placing art in people’s homes and designing around art collections.  Tonight is sentimental for us since we’ve been coming here for 25 years since we were kids.”

Artist and sculptor Michael Combs credited the Parrish for his success, “The Parrish Art Museum is very much an ‘artist’s museum’ instrumental along with Dorothy Lichtenstein for pushing my career along with my installation ‘Trophy Room.’  I am forever indebted.”  It was at that exhibit that collector and Parrish supporter Beth Rudin DeWoody acquired his famous deer in the S&M suit.

Dimondo & Lily Cavendish

Indeed creative suits also abounded as well as dresses such as the Givenchy birds of paradise suit worn by Dimondo who noted the event is a time to break away from being conservative.  What is art without taking a risk.

Peter Brant, Nacho Figueras

By Heather Buchanan

Photos by Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com

Bridgehampton Polo 2012 opened its Sweet Sixteenth Season on Saturday July 21st, albeit with an exhibition match due to the slick rain-soaked field. Luckily the sun was shining on the who’s who of the Hamptons sophisticated social scene.  Guests under the VIP tent were happy to luxuriate in the lounge area with a crisp Bertaud Belieu Rosé or Grey Goose Vodka Hamptons Punch infused with fresh grapefruit and strawberries.

Bertaud Belieu Victoria Kroshnaya

Beautiful picnic baskets from Gabby Karan De Felice’s Tutto Il Giorno were the must have item for all the fashionable tailgaters (be sure to order yours the Wednesday before the match polo@Tuttoilgiorno.com.)

Gabby Karan De Felice

The relaxed atmosphere at polo is the perfect time to catch up with old and new friends as well as valued clients.  Don’t let the casual attire fool you – these are power players of media, fashion, and business and Saturday afternoons at Polo are their business meets pleasure playground.  Style watchers are paying attention to this fashionable crowd.

Hadley Nagel

And for the luxury brand aficionado there is always something to learn under the Bridgehampton Polo VIP Tent.  Are you aware of Ferrari’s newest offering?

Do you know the proper way to light a cigar or the key ingredient you want to avoid in caviar?  Check out our Bridgehampton Polo Luxury Tips of the Day.

THE NEW BRIDGEHAMPTON POLO VIP EXPERIENCE

Shamin Abas

Past years where the focus of polo was engulfed by the party led to witty quips such as Bill McCuddy’s “I went to a party in the Hamptons and a polo game broke out.”  With the game front and center and a revamped exclusive viewing experience this year, the raves came in.   With Shamin Abas Public Relations holding the reins, understated elegance has returned and the sophisticated social crowd like Jim Shi,Tony Melillo, Broadway producers Stewart Lane and Bonnie Comley, Andrew Saffir, Daniel Benedict, and Samantha Yanks with it.  Both the equestrian and jet set worlds have given their stamp or should we say “stomp of the divot” approval on the more exclusive approach.

Andrew Saffir, Samantha Yanks, Daniel Benedict

You know when pocket handkerchiefs and debates on the headlines of The Financial Times abound that class is back.  Be sure you’ve got the FT app on your iPhone.

Dawn Rowan of NBC 4 New York noted, “This year’s event is back to a level of sophistication it was meant to be.  I look forward to the season.”

HSBC Kathryn Kelly, Ralph and Aice Lettieri

HSBC’s Kathryn Kelly entertained her clients in the stylish field side lounge commenting, “It’s a perfect extension from Wellington to the Hamptons to align with our clients and offer them only the best experience.”

Veronica Webb and Chris Del Gatto

Of the new quality over quantity experience CIRCA’s Chris Del Gatto noted, “As a polo player and polo lover it’s great to see people watching the game and these amazing athletes, horses and riders.”  Veronica Webb added, “There’s nothing more elegant than polo in a family environment.”  Be sure to check out the cover story on Del Gatto and Webb in sponsor Hamptons Magazine.

Gianpaolo, Sebastian, and Gabrielle De Felice

Gianpaolo De Felice Co-Founder of Zen Air, a private aviation company known for its top notch aircrafts and jet professionals is new onboard with his Bridgehampton Polo sponsorship.  De Felice said, “I got introduced through polo player Nick Manifold.  It was a way for my family to get involved as well as my company.  We have our own planes and fly all over the world.  I was a pilot for Alitalia as was my father.  For us safety is the main goal.  Also service is very important.  My wife makes it impeccable with her incredible attention to details.”

Stratis Morgan and Family

Attention to details and providing the best of the luxury experience is also important to sponsor Quintessentially Lifestyle with its members only global concierge club dedicated to VIP concierge service.  Just ask around the tent who has one of their magical black cards.

PERFECT POLO FASHION:

Town & Country's Valerie Salembier and Nacho Figueras

Allison Luvera and Valerie Salembier of Town & Country magazine noted the perfect fit with their August issue featuring top young female equestrians.  Salembier said, “Town and Country and polo naturally go together.”

Arbiter of style (and opening ball tosser extraordinaire) Salembier commented on perfect polo fashion, “Historically polo fashion used to be all white.  Now there’s an easy formality.  You see men in fabulous shirts with stripes and polka dots and women keeping with fashion trends which feel very Brazilian today.  People still wear the traditional white but no one bats an eye at a gorgeous orange.”

Countess Luann de Lesseps

Of course there are always a few women who didn’t get the memo that stilettos on grass are only good if you are aerating a golf course.  Salembier advised, “Wedges work but sandals are so fashionable right now.  All the top designers are making them.”  And in terms of the must have haute polo accessories she revealed, “Sunglasses aren’t just for protection.  Like fine watches, they are not only functional but fashion statements.  I have to have four or more.”

Beth Ostrosky Stern

Piaget as the official timekeeper of Bridgehampton Polo takes top honor not only for its honored role on the field but gracing the wrists of the glitterati with their Piaget Polo Collection watches for men and women.

BRIDGEHAMPTON POLO HORSEPOWER – THE FERRARI EXPERIENCE AT OPENING DAY

(photos by Patrick McMullan)

Nacho Figueras, Michael Michele and Marco Mattiacci Attend The Ferrari Experience at Opening Day of Bridgehampton Polo

Horsepower wasn’t only of the four legged variety.  Marco Mattiacci, CEO of Ferrari of North America along with Peter Brant, Bridgehampton Polo Club cofounder and new partner Nacho Figueras hosted the Ferrari Experience on opening day.  Ferrari’s FF, the company’s first four-seater, four wheel drive sports car along with the Americano and Spider models lined the field.  For all the tot-toting guests like Adelina Wong Ettelson, Helen and Tim Schifter, Richie and Jane Notar, and W’s Stefano Tonchi the new FF could be the family friendly Ferrari of their dreams.

Nick Manifold, Kelly Klein and Tony Melillo Attend The Ferrari Experience at Opening Day of Bridgehampton Polo

Ferrari’s special guests were treated to delectable bites from Tutto Il Giorno and Grey Goose Vodka cocktails.  Spotted were Alina Cho, Fern Mallis, Gillian Miniter, Kelly Klein, Michael Michele, Michelle Harper, Kimberly Guilfoyle, Jamee and Peter Gregory and Rita Schrager.

Peter Gregory and Jamee Gregory Attend The Ferrari Experience at Opening Day of Bridgehampton Polo

BRIDGEHAMPTON POLO LUXURY TIPS OF THE DAY

Davidoff Cigars at Bridgehampton Polo

For the luxury aficionado there’s always something new to learn under Bridgehampton Polo’s VIP Tent.  In this case it was just outside the tent at the Davidoff Cigar Garden.  Steven Beltrani was there to offer guests complimentary hand-rolled Davidoff Cigars from the Dominican Republic in their designated smoking section with a perfect view of the field.

Don’t think these highly coveted cigars are just for men.  Beltrani noted, “Men are attracted to women who know how to properly smoke a cigar.”  There is a certain etiquette of lighting and smoking.  The key, Beltrani reveals: When you are lighting the cigar you rotate it so there is an even burn which releases the different layers of flavor.

Guests were also treated to a fine caviar experience from Pointy Snout.  Brand Ambassador Michael Cuomo and owners Michael and Alexandra Du Cane Kline were on hand to explain their pioneering US brand of White Sturgeon Caviar made on an eco sustainable farm.  Alexandra explained, “Caviars have different grades but we only offer one grade – the top.  There is an art and skill that goes into creating caviar just like wine making. We have a consistent and excellent quality – it’s never frozen or left in a storehouse. When you’re paying $100 for a small tin, you’re taking a gamble.  We want to develop a level of trust with the consumer.”  Just like everything else it is important to read the caviar label.  Alexandra explains, “We never use Borax, a chemical preservative found in most caviar.”

The Experimental Cocktail Club and Pointy Snout Caviar

Pointy Snout brought out the Experimental Cocktail Club to pair fabulous cocktails made with French fair trade vodka “Fair.”  Très chic.

Of course with the sun and cocktails the smart people remembered to imbibe in SmartWater which is enhanced with electrolytes to keep them hydrated.

Another healthy option is Zico Pure Premium Coconut Water.  Carly Kelly and Dan Reade call it the perfect drink for polo.  Reade said, “It’s great during the match when you’re drinking in the sun.  It’s all natural and low in calories (60).  Even our flavored varieties have no extra calories or sugar like others.”  The reason Reade notes it is so hydrating is that it is close in consistency to human blood.  While we haven’t seen anyone main-lining a coconut yet, apparently it’s quick to absorb.

Kelly Bensimon

BRIDGEHAMPTON POLO BOUTIQUES

The new fashion boutiques which popped up next to the VIP tent echoed Town & Country’s polo fashion top choices.

Michelle Farmer

Michelle Farmer of Michelle Farmer Collaborate presented her easy, breezy styles which have been gracing the Hamptons woman looking for a unique fashion statement as well as her signature hand designed pearl and leather necklaces.  Her men’s vintage shorts were also catching the eye of the well-dressed male.

Robin Saidman Duck & Weave

Robin Saidman of Duck & Weave displayed attractive men’s and women’s button down shirts in various shades made in New York City.  Saidman noted, “The material is breathable like seersucker.  The cotton from Japan with one percent poly has a crinkle so it’s not flat on the skin and keeps you cool.”

Peyman Umay

Peyman Umay presented examples of his classic made to measure shirts, the perfect tailored look for women and men.  “Polo is always very colorful,” said Umay, “We take it to a different level with color and style.”  One client pointed out a Royal Blue fabric he’d picked out for his new custom suit.  But beware, bespoke can be addicting.  As Umay noted, “It may be his first, but not his last.”

Blu Kokin

Another fashion element which protects and decorates is the perfect polo hat.  Kokin presented their glamorous yet functional hats.  Blu Kokin noted, “They magically transport you into another time.”  And if variety is the spice of life the hats range from the simple to ornate with bows, feathers, and scalloped brims.  Kokin, the millinery master, noted that they work with every shape of face to find a hat to complement, “There’s a lid for every pot,” he said smiling.

Yosi Samra

Flying off the shelves were the ballet flats and flip flops from Yosi Samra.  Yosi commented, “Our flip flops are in all different styles from animal skin to neon and well padded to be super comfy.”  And at a $50 to $60 price point they were snatched up a few at a time.

Silas Marder Furniture

Silas Marder of the Silas Marder Gallery and Marders Nursery displayed his hand made-teak outdoor furniture – solid and stylish and oversized for a statement garden look.  And a nice place to rest if you didn’t get the “don’t wear uncomfortable shoes” memo.

THE FIRST AND LAST WORD

Nancy Atlas

Rock and roll goddess Nancy Atlas with the help of her iPhone for a perfect pitch note sang the National Anthem to ring in the games.  “It’s an honor to be part of the chic event of the Hamptons.  There are men on horses, cocktails, and long sticks.  What else could a girl ask for?”

Kevin Nicholas, Dr. Shawn Sadri

As guests parted, the best-dressed magician Kevin Nicholas performed some astounding tricks.  When asked what would be his greatest magical trick he replied, “To make the two team captains appear on the field out of nowhere.”  Well magical transformations are everywhere this season at Bridgehampton Polo – so all the more reason to keep your eyes on the field.

And as an honorable mention to individual style – Derek Warburton, I want your hand bag!

Derek Warburton, Matt Dillon

As always a special Bridgehampton Polo shout out to the charity which receives the $25 entry fee per car – The Bridgehampton Day Care and Recreation Center. You can’t take for granted your blessings.  It’s time to share.

Polo continues every Saturday through August 25th.  For more information bhpolo@shaminabaspr.com 631 237-5388

Two Trees Farms 849 Hayground Road, Bridgehampton

Laurent Kalkotour db Bistro Moderne

By Holly Buchanan

“I have but one regret in life, that I didn’t drink more champagne.” John Maynard Keynes

Well, that’s certainly a fate I don’t intend to share.

Participating chefs with guests of honor and James Beard Foundation President Susan Ungaro at the James Beard Foundation’s Chefs & Champagne New York at Wölffer Estate Vineyard in the Hamptons on July 21, 2012 (Photo by Phil Gross)

Giddy is the only appropriate word to describe what I felt walking into the James Beard Foundation’s 2012 Chefs & Champagne® New York at the bucolic Wolffer Estate Vineyard.  Ah, so many inspired, delicious dishes, fabulous champagne (and wine) and so little time.   It was like speed dating for foodies – a whirlwind tour of over 30 fabulous restaurants in a little over two hours.  And all to raise money for The James Beard Foundation’s programs and mission including culinary student scholarships and the organization’s annual food conference on sustainability, public health, and nutrition.

Honoree Marcus Samuelsson, President of James Beard Foundation Susan Ungaro, and honoree Ted Allen at the James Beard Foundation's Chef & Champagne New York at Wölffer Estate Vineyard in the Hamptons on July 21, 2012. (Photo by Mark Von Holden)

At this year’s 2012 Chefs and Champagne® New York , The James Beard Foundation honored multiple award-winning TV personality and cookbook author Ted Allen and the judges of Food Network’s Chopped including  Maneet Chauhan, Scott Conant, Amanda Freitag, Alex Guarnaschelli, Marc Murphy, Marcus Samuelsson, Aarón Sanchez, Chris Santos, and Geoffrey Zakarian

It was another great crowd including B. Smith, Dan Gasby, Katie Lee, and Carey Lowell, co-owner of Beford Post Inn whose chef Jeremy McMillan participated.

The lovely Hanson family - Deana Hanson with daughters Brynn and Leah

Another touching moment is the presentation of the Christian Wolffer Scholarship to a rising local culinary talent, named in memory of the man who loved food, wine, family, and the land.  This year’s recipient was Eliza Martin.

Roman Roth

Roman Roth, wine maker at Wolffer Estate Vineyard, was on hand to celebrate.  The event featured a sampling of Wolffer wines.  I was wondering how the grapes were doing in the dry hot weather.  Roman said, “They arrived three weeks early this year.” I asked whether that was good or bad.  “Very good,” Roman assured me.    It’s great to have such polite and punctual grapes that actually arrive early, almost unheard of in the Hamptons.

Nicolas Feuillatte was pouring a variety of their champagnes and everyone was enjoying the fine festive bubbly.   I know my sister, HipHamptons editor Heather Buchanan, has put Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte Rosé at the top of her birthday wish list for Sunday.

There was also a big crowd around the Delta Sky Club® “The Luxury Bar” where the Pomegranate Margaritas were going fast.   The chefs themselves were happy with a cold Stella Artois® beer at the end of the day.

Dawn Rowan, Marcus Samuelsson, Michelle Widmeier

My goal for this year’s 2012 Chefs & Champagne® New York culinary celebration was to sample every dish, and I came darn close.   I had to practically waddle back to my car, but it was so worth it.  I admit, I was in a little bit of a feeding frenzy – dashing from dish to dish, but they were just all so alluring.

Just like with children, it’s hard to pick favorites.   I loved them all with their own unique personalities.   But a few standouts were:

Pastry Chef Marc Aumont – The Modern

Caramelia Milk Chocolate Trifle with Coconut Tapioca and Mango Gelee.   What can I say?  I went back three times.  It was THAT good.

Laurent Kalkotour – db Bistro Moderne

Poached Scottish Salmon with Fines Herbes Emulsion and Smoked Potatoes

David Carmichael – Gilt

Watermelon-Lemongrass Consomme with Basil-Mint Caviar.  I overheard the chef say there were “too many ingredients to list” and I believe it – so much was going my palette just kept exclaiming, “Oh…oh,, and then..and…oh wow!”

Larry Kolar – Solé East (right here in Montauk – yeah!)

Long Island Duck Breast with Frisee Salad and Sherry Vinaigrette

Larry’s better half shared his philosophy of “Keep it simple, local, and don’t complicate it.”  It totally worked with this simple yet absolutely delicious dish.

And then there was……Oops, sorry, just drooled on my computer.  And then there was a big line for Todd English (the Todd English Food Hall) and his Grilled Oysters Six Ways.   Wow.   Just wow.

So here’s a shout out to JBF, Wolffer Estate Vineyard, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, Stella Artois® and all the chefs.  Each dish was more delicious than the next. Thanks to you I had an amazing evening and may not need to feed myself again until, possibly, August.  Cheers!

Holly Buchanan

There comes a point in a long, social summer where you just can’t look at another boring glass of chardonnay. Hennessy decided to spice things up, treating guests to the Holidays Hamptons-Style.  In this heat, you can’t beat a dose of a wintery wonderland filled with amazing cocktails with a gentle water mist blowing pool side.  While you may picture yourself sipping cognac by the fire in Aspen, you may be surprised that Hennessy V.S. is a go-to spirit for mixed sassy summer cocktails.  Think of Hennessy V.S. like pearls, sophisticated in its purity, but when paired with a leather choker on a bikini clad beauty, ready to be naughty.

Jordan

Hennessy mixologist extraordinaire Jordan Bushell has an occupational hazard – he’s extremely popular at parties.  “You don’t want to be the guy who’s the most knowledgeable about booze,” he laments, “You always get drawn into the bar.”  But if you are lucky enough to catch him while he’s working you are in for a taste bud treat.

Drunken Cranberries

He’s big on ingredients you can prepare in advance and also a fan of punch.  Apparently historically the original “cocktail” formula came from punch and almost always included cognac.  “You’re pairing strong, sour, sweet, weak, and bitter in a balance,” Jordan noted.  But like mixing paint colors you want to arrive at a new vibrant hue instead of a muddled brown.  He will surprise you with a sprig of fresh thyme to add not only flavor but a scent to the cocktail or mix in evaporated milk to come up with an egg-nog meets pina-colada.  And of course a key is in the cocktail shake.  Not just a straight up and down but an around and around to break up the ice and ingredients.  Think samba with your hands.

Hennessy V.S. Limited-Edition

Hennessy is also adding a new sense of design into its mix.  The event debuted the new creative bottles with designs ranging from street cred to high tech.  The Hennessy V.S. Limited – Edition bottle is designed by Futura a famous street graffiti artist and will be on shelves August 15^th.

V.S.O.P Privilège Collection 3

The V.S.O.P Privilège Collection 3 is designed by Chris Bangle, head of BMW Designs and will be out November 1^st covered in carbon matte grey lacquer with luminescent ink as well as 3D images.

Hennessy Holiday Mixed Drinks

Spiced Orange Smash

Spiced Orange Smash

Ingredients

1 ½ oz – Hennessy V.S

¾ oz – Velvet Falernum

2 Dashes – Angostura Bitters

1 heaping tbsp – Orange Marmalade

½ oz – Fresh Lemon Juice

Glassware

Rocks Glass

Garnish

Orange Twist

Instructions

• Add all liquids to a shaker tin with ice
• Shake until well chilled
• Fine strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass
• Garnish with an orange twist

There's Always Thyme

There’s Always Thyme

Ingredients

1 ½ oz – Hennessy V.S

1 oz – Thyme Apricot Honey Syrup* (recipe to follow)

¾ oz – Fresh Lemon Juice

1 Dash – Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters

1 Splash – Amaretto

Rehydrated Apricot

Fresh Thyme Sprig

Glassware

Rocks Glass

Garnish

Rehydrated Apricot

Fresh Thyme Sprig

Instructions

• Add all liquids to a shaker tin with ice
• Shake until well chilled
• Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass
• Garnish with a rehydrated apricot from the syrup, and a fresh sprig of thyme

Cranberry Spiced Punch

Cranberry Spice Punch

Ingredients

3 cups – Hennessy V.S

1 cup – Brandied Cranberries* (recipe to follow)

¼ cup – Brandied Cranberry Syrup

4 cups – Cranberry Juice

1 ½ cups – Fresh Lemon Juice

¾ cups – Pure Maple Syrup

1 cup – Apple Juice or Cloudy Apple juice

Apple Slices

Drunken Cranberries

Glassware

Punch Glasses

Garnish

Apple Slices

Drunken Cranberries

Instructions

• Add all ingredients to a large punch bowl with 1 large ice block

Hennessy Coqui

Hennessy Coqui

Ingredients

Apricot Thyme Honey Syrup

Ingredients

2 cups – Water

1 cup – Honey

20 – Dried Apricots

20 – Thyme Sprigs

Instructions

• Add water to heat with dried apricots and thyme
• Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until reduced by half
• Add honey stir in and remove from heat
• Allow to cool and run syrup through cheesecloth to remove any particle

Drunken Cranberries

Drunken Cranberries

Ingredients

1 ½ cups – Simple Syrup
2 – Cinnamon Sticks

10 – Cloves

4 – Allspice Pods

1 – Zest from Large Orange

1 cup – Fresh Cranberries

1 ½ cups – Hennessy V.S

Instructions

• Add all ingredients except Hennessy and Cranberries to a pot and bring to a boil over high heat
• When boiling, add cranberries for about a minute (or until all cranberries have split or popped)
• Remove from heat and allow to cool
• Strain liquid into a container
• Add cranberries discarding all other particles
• Add Hennessy to jar and ensure that the cranberries are fully submerged
• Store in the fridge

Bridgehampton Polo

The spotlight is back on Bridgehampton Polo and this year firmly focused on the field. In its 16^th Season Bridgehampton Polo 2012 returns to Two Trees Farm for six consecutive Saturdays from July 21st through August 25^th.   The game itself is front and center this year with a more luxurious viewing experience.  Former years of “bigger is better” are being replaced with a “quality over quantity” approach.

Last season, the Bridgehampton Polo Club brought in veteran polo publicist and event organizer Shamin Abas to take over the Saturday afternoon operation. The changes Abas made created quite a favored buzz.  The VIP tent is revamped to be more exclusive and focused on the game itself. VIP guests will be treated to a pre-match reception replete with summery cocktails, afternoon tea and light hors d’oeuvres. Field-side garden areas, including the Davidoff Cigar Garden, will give patrons an unparalleled view of all the action.

Also new this season, International Polo Star and Ralph Lauren Model Nacho Figueras is now a partner in Bridgehampton Polo Club with Co-Founder and Owner Peter Brant. “As the ambassador to the sport, Nacho has done a tremendous job in bringing more attention to polo worldwide than ever before,” said Brant. “We look forward to the exciting potential the partnership presents.”

“The Hamptons is a very special place for me,” said Figueras.  “Many of my close friends are here and it’s where my family and I love to be in the summer. I am thrilled to be involved with Bridgehampton Polo Club from an ownership standpoint and I believe the club has great potential for growth.”

Baroness Sheri de Borghrave, HH's Heather Buchanan

Unique picnic baskets, conceived by Hamptons hot spot Tutto Il Giorno, will be available for purchase, mixing high goal action with haute cuisine. The favorite Sag Harbor and Southampton restaurant has signed on as official caterer for the entire 6-week season.  You can contact them by Wednesday for a special 10 person gourmet spread complete with wine to be ready for you field-side on Saturday (polo@tuttoilgiorno.com.) We have to admit we’re crazy about their burratta and a little in love with their panna cotta at our rosé infused ladies lunches there.

The Bridgehampton Polo VIP tent list (which is always one of the Hamptons’ most coveted invitations) is by invitation only but everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the exciting match. The trick is to arrive early to get a prime tailgate spot by the spectator side of the field or place in the stands.  The $25 per car fee benefits the Bridgehampton Day Care and Recreation Center.

With sponsors Ferrari North America and Town and Country Magazine for opening day and Piaget as the official 2012 season timekeeper with other season sponsors including Zen Air, Davidoff, SmartWater, Zico Premier Coconut Water, HSBC Pemier, Grey Goose Vodka,  Quintessentially and Hamptons Magazine, Bridgehampton Polo Club promises a season of luxury and great sportsmanship.

Gates open at 3pm and the match is from 4p to 6p.

For more info bhpolo@shaminabaspr.com or call 631-237-5388

Two Trees Farm, 849 Hayground Road, Bridgehampton

Gallery Owner Eric Firestone

ArtMRKT Hamptons running from July 19 – 22^nd at the Bridgehampton Historical Society brings a fresh mix of contemporary and modern art from 40 leading galleries across the U.S. from local favorites like the Eric Firestone Gallery in East Hampton to the Peter Mendenhall Gallery from Los Angeles.

For viewers of every taste, the array of media includes painting, sculpture, drawings, photography, video, and installation.  And for the buyer, numerous options at affordable prices.  Although one woman was heard telling her daughter on the phone to her father, “Don’t tell him how much I just spent!”

Lisa Frazar and Nicole McElroy

Top New York City interior designer Lisa Frazar was scouting for pieces for her clients.  She commented, “I like the price points of this up and coming fair.”  Her honed eye, however, caught a small treasure, a Gerhard Richter painting for $395,000.  Robert Casterline of MW Galleries noted, “We acquired this Richter a year ago before his prices went out of control.  This is the most affordable of his works on canvas.  Most of his bigger pieces are in the $3 to 5 million range.  It’s great in the Hamptons to see historically important work.”  He then led us to a 1964 de Kooning featuring two women, a rarity.  Casterline also pointed out that they advise clients in terms of art as an investment.  He described the categories of emerging, mid career, and investment.

Steve Haweeli

A local emerging artist Steve Haweeli at the Karyn Mannix Contemporary Gallery said that it is still the natural beauty of the East End which inspires his canvases.  He described the magical 3:48pm moment in the afternoon driving into Montauk over the hill to see the ocean emerge in the sparkling sun.  He creates paintings which you are allowed to touch to feel the texture of the different layers of blue to create the wave effect.

work from Jordan Eagles

You may be a bit more squeamish about touching the plexiglass paintings of Jordan Eagles at the Patrajdas Gallery which are made from real blood.  Before you True Blood devotees get all excited, it’s not human.  Eagles mixes blood with acrylic, resin and copper to create, “Relics from what was once living, embodying transformation, regeneration, and an allegory of death to life.”

WPIX Debra Alfarone and Dan Wall

Part of the life affirming fun is the people watching at the event as well.  Everyone from prominent collectors to artists to socialites and media stars were strolling around on opening night.  We spotted WPIX  Channel 11’s Emmy nominated Debra Alfarone with Dan Wall.

Alix Smith Through Imitation 1

ArtMRKT also is reaching out to the local community and has put up online auctions MRKTworks where people can bid on donated art work, and the proceeds of the sales will benefit local charities.  For example animal lovers can bid on Alix Smith’s Digital-C Print “Through Imitation 1” to benefit the Southampton Animal Shelter.

www.art-mrkt.com/Hamptons

A new boutique Pachute East has popped up in Sag Harbor for the best of the easy breezy Hamptons style with women’s clothing, jewelry, handbags and accessories.  Pachute which means “simple” in Hebrew is for the woman who wants a unique style all her own.  With heat and humidity ruling the Hamptons summer, women need to shed the Spanx and enjoy the breathable fabrics and flowy silhouettes.

Audrey Orell, Sharone Komoroff

Pachute has been opened by Sharone Komoroff, owner of the two year old women’s boutique on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, along with her mother in law Audrey Orell, a long time Sag Harbor summer resident.  They share a passion for fashion with a multi-generational eye to suit women of all ages.  With a loose fitting style Sharone notes, “You don’t have to be skinny-mini to look good.”

Of the location on Main Street just up the brick stairs near the movie theater, Audrey says, “It chose us.”  The space became available to share with Robin Saidman’s Duck & Weave which features men’s shirts.  It was a his and hers match made in heaven.

Audrey describes their women’s line as “comfortable, cool and chic with a little bit of edge.”  The key is to keep it simple so it can carry any kind of day or occasion.  Sharone points to a Pip-Squeak Chapeau dress and comments, “I could wear it to the beach or get married in it.”  She adds, “It has to feel good,” pointing to the fabulous linen line Pas de Calais and organic cottons from Kee Edwards.

Sharone also choses accessories with a distinct look like the Amy Kreiling leather handbags. They also carry Dee Dee bathing suits with the American or more revealing Italian bottom.

The summer must have for Sharone is a great linen scarf and flowy top with a classic pair of  jeans.

Sharone does the buying from attending trade shows to tracking down a stylish woman on the street to source her fabulous finds.  The goal is quality at a moderate price.  Audrey says, “We’re not Bergdorf and we’re not H&M.”

You may find yourself shopping early and often.

Pachute East, 78 Main Street, Sag Harbor 631-899-4888

The Empire State Pride Agenda set a new record of 1500 attendees to support the LGBT rights organization at the Hamptons Tea Dance on July 14th which celebrated its 20th Anniversary.  We clearly must have started coming when we were six.

John Bjornen and Heather Buchanan

Not only were there impressive leaders of business, design, the arts, politics and finance, there were some serious white gogo boots we were envying.

Kendra Hutchinson and Lynn Faria

Lynn Faria who is the ESPA Interim Executive Director and recently married to Kendra Hutchinson commented, “It’s just shy of a year of the anniversary of gay marriage which has fueled the momentum across the country.  We’ve seen the president finally evolve on the right side of this issue and actually cite the work in New York and specifically the work the Pride Agenda has been doing for seven years.  We’re working now on protecting that and standing by those who have stood by us in upcoming elections.  We’re also working on a state wide law to protect against discrimination based on gender identity or expression.”

MJ Vineburgh, Mark Paviluk, Laurie Hall

Faria added, “We’re seeing more and more people here with their kids and families who are recently married and can enjoy those protections with their children.”  Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams sponsored the children’s area with “Family friendly furniture for all families.”

Heather Buchanan and friend

We adored the little pink loungers and were determined to steal one from the little cuties.  How embarrassing, however, if our twenty six ishhhh year old butt got stuck in the chair.

But despite growing families, the Hamptons Tea Dance remains the place to meet and greet. “We’re still here to flirt,” said a long time board member.  That’s where some of the best check-out-my-sexy-moves came in on the dance floor.

DJ Lady Bunny

DJ Lady Bunny whose skirt gets shorter and hair gets bigger each year is known for the best play list and legs in the business.

Judith Kasen and Michele Unger

This is the best dance party of the summer and guests boogied until the bitter end with DJ Lady Bunny’s famous swansong, “Last Dance” which is akin to the boat horns blowing at the end of the Fourth of July fireworks.  This is one event with old and new friends, that no one really wants to end.

Steven Urso, Holly Buchanan, Todd Wolk

And as far as romance under the tent in2012 , with the strides made by the ESPA, you’d have to rename the song, “We fell in love in a hope-ful place.”  Happy Birthday Hamptons Tea Dance!!!

By Heather Buchanan

Hamptons fundraisers are supposed to be like children – you love them all equally.  But we know that’s not really true.  Everyone has favorites. The James Beard Foundation Chefs and Champagne® New York on Saturday July 21^st is consistently is a top pick for the finger-licking good food, top notch bubbly and wine, spectacular setting, silent auction that has your Master Card maxing out, and great camaraderie.  Chefs may be known for their egos but when you see them all line up for the group photo you know there is immense respect, especially if your colleague sprays you with champagne.

And for those of us who aren’t in the top two percent it is one of the best bang-for-the-benefit-buck events around.  HipHamptons insider note – join the James Beard Foundation and not only get a discount on the ticket price ($200 vs. $275) but open up your world to a whole host of culinary events.

Held at the Wolffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack and featuring their popular wines the event honors Christian Wolffer and his love of food and wine.  A scholarship for an emerging local culinary talent is awarded in his name.  As far as the bubbly — Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte pulls out all the popping cork stops with various vintages.  And the food.  Oh the food.  Yes, the big O “I’ll have what she is having,” taste experiences.  If you are afraid of commitment this is the event for you.  Why have one main dish when you can sample 30.

This year the James Beard Foundation will honor multiple award-winning TV personality and cookbook author Ted Allen and the judges of Food Network’s Chopped who include Maneet Chauhan, Scott Conant, Amanda Freitag, Alex Guarnaschelli, Marc Murphy, Marcus Samuelsson, Aarón Sanchez, Chris Santos, and Geoffrey Zakarian.

The event is always the place to get the latest food news whether it is Marcus Samuelsson’s fascinating new memoir “Yes, Chef” which chronicles his journey from Ethiopia to Sweden to Harlem or the latest new restaurant.  Just like fashion boutiques, restaurants are also starting Pop-Ups.

Daniel Boulud

The most beloved Daniel Boulud who has created a salivating storm with his Boulud Sud in New York City which is a veritable culinary travelogue of the entire Mediterranean sends the magic south for Palm Beachers at The Brazilian Court Hotel & Beach Club.  Café Boulud’s Chef Jim Leiken will be preparing a myriad of Mediterranean Boulud Sud specialties at the summer pop up.

We love this idea.  Daniel, please, pretty please, bring this to the Hamptons!  Be sure to check out the db Bistro Moderne station at the event.

Keep the wet naps handy.

For tickets http://www.jamesbeard.org/chefsandchampagne/

Kevin Berlin Tiger Training For Beginners

ArtHamptons July 13- 15, 2012 at Nova’s Ark Sculpture Field in Bridgehampton features $200 million worth of art: 3000 post-war and contemporary works from 80 galleries from 10 countries.

Tongues and tails were wagging over artist and showman Kevin Berlin’s “Tiger Training For Beginners” where art, the cause of tiger conservation in the wild, and four gorgeous naked girls painted with stripes meet.  The tigers, Jenni from Texas, Tessa from Sag Harbor, and Ksenia and Alina from Siberia said it’s the artists job to raise important issues, and they are literally putting their bodies on the line.

Nicolas Pichon Big Stories

Envie D’Art from Paris is exhibiting for the first time at ArtHamptons.  Cathy Bombard said, “We know a lot of galleries in New York who said you have to come.  We also have clients who have houses here.  There are big houses so they need big art.”

Renaud Delorme La Fille Gucci

Her theory is to have pieces which run the spectrum from Nicolas Pichon’s Big Stories at $1,900 to Renaud Delorme’s La Fille Gucci for $23,700 a clever layering of film cans, tennis balls, and toys to create a girl’s face.

Paul Rousso Money On The Wall

With the European galleries increased participation, the question arises – is the dollar or the euro faring better.  Well in terms of artist Paul Rousso, his sculpted dollars and euros are the same price — namely $16,500.

Paul Rousso Money On The Walls

Paul Rousso of the Arcadia Fine Arts Gallery in SoHo uses heat infusion on plexiglass to mold the “bills.”  Arcadia’s Sergio Barrale notes that money is not only currency but a piece of art with portraits of famous people and infused with ancient symbolism.  In this case it is art which buys art.

Honoree Cheeck Marin

It’s a happy birthday to Cheech Marin honored as Arts Patron Of The Year.  Aside from his musical fame, he has one of the finest collections of Chicano art in the world.  “My goal is to bring Chicano art to the forefront of the art world,” he stated.  He has personally curated the work at the Thomas Paul Gallery booth.

Lisa Jack photos Barack Obama

If you want a fresh look at politics, check out “Barack Obama The Freshman +1” photographs by Lisa Jack at the Mark Borghi Fine Arts booth.  You wonder if he can remember those happy care-free days.

We personally found a great way to enjoy the art is to stop into the Hamptons Cottages & Gardens VIP Lounge and pick up a his and hers mini bottle of Nicolas Feuillatte champagne and go explore.

HipHamptons Heather Buchanan and Rob Gobright

Throughout the weekend there are special events and seminars on investing, collecting, and appreciating art.  Check out the full line up at www.arthamptons.com.

Veronica Taylor

Hamptons women with beautiful skin have a secret weapon.  Veronica Taylor.  With Skin By Veronica, she approaches skin as your largest organ and guides clients not just in the topical treatment but from the inside out.  Her motto is, “Being healthy is beautiful.”  Veronica describes her approach as East meets West with the best from both worlds to create glowing, healthy skin.  As a paramedical aesthetician and an educator in the industry, she also has done the research to know what works and what doesn’t.  “I’m a translator from the biochemist to the consumer to tell the truth,” Veronica explains.

She is not only in the anti aging business but in the anti skin cancer business. She points out that a cream can’t help you if you’re toxic.  Veronica says, “We’re here on the planet and we have to take health care into our own hands.”  And when you are in her hands you are in very capable and caring hands.

She is truly invested in helping people.  And guys that includes you.  A large part of her clientele is men, and she has a special high tech male grooming.  Dudes you can get seriously addicted to looking good. You walk out glowing instead of red and irritated.

Veronica has a number of effective tools in her best Hamptons facial beauty arsenal.  She uses the Carboxy Therapy which uses gel and a mask to raise the density of the CO2 in the area and promote the red blood cells to release O2 which improves blood circulation, prevents inflammation, and activates metabolism.  It is reported to help with pigmentation, acne, and wrinkles.  And your skin feels super moisturized.  Veronica also uses a stimulating Dr. J International Fire & Ice treatment, LED treatment, Sparkling C and Phyto Stem Cell treatment and has the most innovative organic and biotech products.  She’s especially keen on NIA24 which is Niacin-Powered Skin therapy to prevent, repair, and protect from environmental damage.

Oh yes, and she’s a whiz at eyebrows.

Veronica is a huge proponent of reading ingredients.  “Be conscious your skin is a sponge,” she advises.  “Everything from the shampoos to the baby wipes to the make-up you use is being absorbed.  Especially beware of sunscreen.  To use chemical spray sunscreens on kids with alcohol is like child abuse.  You are baking in the toxins.”  She advises everyone to carefully read labels and understand the ingredients to assure maximum protection with minimum harm.

When you see Veronica Taylor you get not only a treatment but an education.  She works privately out of an office in Southampton so no spa mob scene either.  Get ready to relax and be good to yourself.

Veronica Taylor, skinbyveronicataylor@gmail.com, 631-332-7058

DJ KISS rocks Love Heals

By Heather Buchanan

Photos by Owen Hoffman for Patrick McMullan Company

It wasn’t only the lightning that set off sparks in the tent for the 650 Hamptonites who came out support the Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education at Love Heals at Luna Farms in Sagaponack, raising over $300,000.  Unlike the senior blue-blazered crowd found at many Hamptons benefits, this was the sizzling social set.  You know an organization is dedicated to safe sex when they make sure every goody bag contains a “Proper Attire Required… For Entry” condom.  Designer condom, of course, by host Charlotte Ronson.

Andrew Saffir, Charlotte Ronson, Hilary Rhoda, Daniel Benedict

Love Heals Executive Director Jasmine Nielsen said, “It’s the ultimate birthday party for the 20^th anniversary of Love Heals.  We’ve reached 530,000 young people about AIDS education.  At this event, we’re getting an amazing younger crowd.  It’s not true that they are not a philanthropic generation.”

Caroline Fare, Eric Villency

Eric Villency of the Villency Design Group noted, “This is the quintessential Hamptons event for an important cause. I grew up with people in the arts and AIDS affected a lot of them.  It still matters, and this keeps the issue alive.”

Dini von Mueffling

Organization co-founder Dini von Mueffling commented, “We don’t think about the 1.2 million who are infected and the more than 25% who don’t know it.  This disease is 100% preventable through education.  It is just a conversation.  Kids’ bullshit detectors are through the roof.  When they have a speaker from Love Heals you can hear a pin drop.”  In terms of one of her best friends Alison Gertz who died of AIDS, Mueffling said, “Oh Ali, it seems like just yesterday.  She died August 8, 1992 in West Hampton.  I know she would be proud of us.  She worked so hard.” Alison Gertz’parents Mr. and Mrs. Jerrold Gertz were also in attendance.

Host Andrew Saffir there with Daniel Benedict admitted, “I’m semi allergic to Hamptons events.  This is always one of my favorites.  Dini is so tirelessly dedicated.  It’s an honor to help in a small way.”

Host Hilary Rhoda added, “It’s an honor and really fun to put together this event to raise awareness and keep Ali’s legacy alive.  In the Hamptons you come here to relax and be laid back and comfortable.  This event isn’t stuffy or uptight.  It’s great to be outdoors.”

Well, yes until a downpour sent most of the female population to the ladies room to fix soggy dresses and undone tresses. I took the smart ticket and ran under the umbrella at the Nathan’s Hot Dog stand to squeeze in with the Nathan guys and chow down.

I did learn a new style trick for frizzing blow outs.  Put a poodle balloon on your head.  Done.

Patron Summer Cocktails

Patron tequila had on their A-game to cool down the hot crowd with summer cocktails including the Birthday Splash with Patron Silver, Patron Citronge Liquer, Kerry Watermelon Syrup, fresh watermelon, fresh lime, and Kerry Agave Syrup.  Patron also gave new definition to popsicle stand – infusing their silver label with Peach Basil, Pomegranate and Grapefruit Hibiscus.  One young girl looked on with great anticipation.  “Sorry. Come back in a few years,” she was advised.

Baylor Ferrier and Heather Lucas photo by HipHamptons

Patron was also doing engravings on your own muddler.  I had mine etched with, “The Lovely Hour.”  The lovely hour is happy hour only prettier.  I plan to muddle a little fresh blackberry and lavender to add to my tequila.  After a few cocktails it was time for people to have fun with the Patron photo booth.  Can we just say that girls rule.

photo by John Gannon

The silent auction is always a stand out at Love Heals, and don’t think I didn’t see one socialite carefully placing her cocktail on the sheet to blur the name of the woman who outbid her.  Two items were very hot:  Wolffer Estate Vineyards Tour and Tastings for six with Christian’s Cuvee Merlot, and New York City Ballet 2 tickets to the fall gala celebrating Valentino and a working rehearsal as well as a pair of Maria Kowroski signed pointe shoes.

Awesome DJ Kiss kept the crowd dancing the whole time.  I would hire her for any event.

Hilary Rhoda, Nicole Trufino

Here are some of the noted guests: supermodel Nicole Trunfio, pianist Chloe Flower, designer Rebecca Minckoff, Rodale’s David Zincenko, news anchor Chris Wragge, Peter Davis, Kelly Delaney, Richard Farley, Stephanie Hirsch, Richard Johnson & Sessa von Richtofen, Scott Lipps, Avis Richards, Teresa Sorkin, Martin & Nina Varsavsky, Eric Villency, and Niche Media’s Samantha Yanks, among others.

Wednesday July 4^th – Montauk Grucci Fireworks on Umbrella Beach

Any town beach is good viewing.  Go early for parking and bring a picnic – this is hugely popular.  Remember your flashlight or your iPhone flashlight app.

www.montaukchamber.org

Men’s Lives at Bay Street Theatre – July 3 – 29

If there is one classic play about the Hamptons it is Men’s Lives when fishermen and not financiers ruled the Hamptons.  This is the 20 year revival from Sag Harbor’s own Joe Pintauro based on the book by Peter Matthiessen.  Compelling and heartbreaking, it is a must see!  You will never look at The Seafood Shop in the same way again.

Tickets start at $56

www.baystreet.org

Thursday July 5^th – LOOC Art Gallery Opening

LOOC ART, a new art venture, announces its first exhibition, which features six New York-based contemporary painters, sculptors and mixed media artists. The pop-up gallery on Jobs Lane will feature works from Angie Drakopoulos, Caio Fonseca, Ann Marie Heal, Daniel Hill, Elizabeth Schoettle and Tomas Vu.

In conjunction with the exhibition, LOOC ART recently launched its flagship project, an online art gallery. The website is at the forefront of a new trend for contemporary art collecting, offering online pricing and purchasing of artwork. The continually evolving roster of artists will feature both established and promising emerging painters, sculptors, print-makers and artists of other mediums.

“The art world can be very intimidating and unapproachable. We’ve culled the studios of innumerable artists and present unique works by investment quality artists. We offer them with no attitude and an easy, approachable way of purchasing,” said LOOC ART co-founders Lara McLanahan and Claire Johnston.

In the coming months LOOC ART will expand to include studio tours, corporate and private art consulting, additional pop-up galleries and the online sale of work by current MFA candidates and recent graduates of MFA programs.

85 Jobs Lane Southampton, www.loocart.com

Friday July 6^th – Fridays At Five Authors Series Lucette Lagnado

Every Friday in the summer the Hampton Library in Bridgehampton hosts amazing literary talent in their back yard.  Enjoy a glass of wine and expand your intellectual horizons.  On July 6^th Lucette Lagnado will read from her new book The Arrogant Years a memoir –  “One girl’s search for her lost youth from Cairo to Brooklyn.

2478 Main Street Bridgehampton www.hamptonlibrary.org

Friday July 6 - 10th annual Shark Attack Sounds Party

The 10th Annual Shark Attack Sounds party hosted by Ben Watts, Ben Pundole, and Mazdack Rassi in celebration of Independence Day. DJ lineup for the evening is DJ Zen Freeman, Chelsea Leyland, Carl Kennedy and Victor Calderone. Last year 2500 guests showed up to celebrate including star power from Naomi Watts and Liev Schrieber.  This year they promise to have surprises in store.  Rock on.

Rick’s Crabby Cowboy Café – 455 East Lake Drive, Montauk
Doors open at 8pm with free BBQ the first hour

$20 for all guests

Bridge Gardens Trust

Saturday July 7^th Bridge Garden Trust Garden Tour

This hidden gem is a beautiful five acre garden just a stone’s throw from Citarella.  The private gardens are now managed by the Peconic Land Trust and feature a rose garden with 800 varieties, a lavender garden, knot garden, herbs galore, and all sorts of flowering shrubs and trees.  Rick Bogusch will give a tour on July 7 at 10am to discuss the plantings and gardening materials as well as sustainable practices.  You can also see the sculpture exhibition Uncommon Ground III.

The gardens are open Wed, Thurs from noon to 5, Friday from noon to dusk, Saturday 10 – 4 and Sunday noon to 4pm.  Admission is $10.

Bridge Garden Trust 36 Mitchell Lane, Bridgehampton www.peconiclandtrust.org/Bridge_Gardens

Love Heals at Luna Farm

Saturday July 7^th Love Heals at Luna Farms – Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education

Luna Farms – Sagaponack

This is always a favorite of the younger social set with drinks, dinner, dancing and one of the best silent auctions given all the fashionistas who support the event.  Benefitting the Alison Gertz Foundation For AIDS Education, the Hamptons fundraiser is held under a big top tent in a farm field.  More than one married couple has met here – remember to smile.

Tickets start at $250

www.loveheals.org/LUNA

A new spa has opened its blue and white doors in Sag Harbor.  The Rejuvenation Spa has the affordable price of $79 for an hour massage (Swedish, deep tissue, reflexology, shiatsu, pre-natal, sport, jet-lag, Tui-Na, and aromatherapy.)  Book me early and often and for sure tell me what Tui-Na is!

Owner Therese Lindstrom and husband Bill Kamaras wanted a boutique spa that focused on healing to serve the local community with very affordable pricing, about half of the price of a massage at most Hamptons top spas.  Therese Lindstrom reports they already have a loyal following from farmers to ladies who lunch.

Their massage therapists have trained at places such as the Swedish Institute and the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine with 7 – 20 years experience.  You can add on organic body scrubs to leave scented of rose or lavender-tangerine (well okay maybe not the farmers.)

For spontaneous spa-ers they also accept walk-ins from 9am to 9pm.  Keep an eye out for acupuncture treatments Friday and Saturday and facials with a new line of ayurvedic products.

Rejuvenation Spa

Rejuvenation Spa will also arrange for therapists to come to your home or better yet yacht.

Located behind Main Street near Yoga Shanti, they luckily have lots of parking so no spa stressing.

This Sunday July 1^st visit their open house is from 11am to 5pm with summer refreshment in the garden, mini massages and art by Rob Lang.

23 Bridge Street, Second Floor Sag Harbor 631 725 1057

If you’re not a hedge fund manager in North Haven who has the deep pockets to put on a private fireworks display for your wife’s birthday – don’t feel bad.  Here is how you can enjoy Hamptons Fourth of July fireworks.

With Independence Day falling on hump day this year, Hamptons fireworks are more spread out than usual.  The key is to secure a prime viewing seat early whether it is a waterfront restaurant reservation or a beach chair set up well before sunset.  Most displays go off right after dark around 9pm.  Be forewarned that parking can be a nightmare so arrive early.

Sag Harbor June 30^th – Long Wharf

Set off just outside the breakwater at the Sag Harbor Yacht Club.  If you haven’t been invited on a yacht then Havens Beach and Marine Park are good for viewing as well as B Smith restaurant.

www.sagharborchamber.com

Wednesday July 4^th – Montauk Grucci Fireworks on Umbrella Beach

Any town beach is good viewing.  Go early for parking and bring a picnic – this is hugely popular.  Remember your flashlight or your iPhone flashlight app to get back to your car after dark.

www.montaukchamber.org

Friday July 6^th – Southampton Fresh Air Home’s American Picnic Benefit

Grucci fireworks set off in Shinnecock Bay off Meadow Lane.  You can get the front row seat and benefit a worthy cause at the same time with the Fresh Air Home’s mission to provide a camp for physically challenged children.  Tickets $250 adults, $100 children (under 20).

www.sfah.org

Saturday July 7^th – Devon Yacht Club

These are set off at the Devon Yacht Club at the end of Abraham’s Path in Amagansett.  Look for public beaches along Three Mile Harbor and Barnes Landing.

www.devonyc.com

Sat. July 14^th – Shelter Island Crescent Beach

Crescent Beach is the place to be or make a reservation way in advance at Sunset Beach for dinner.

www.shelterislandchamber.org

Sat. July 21 – 32^nd Great Bonac Fireworks Show

A long tradition set off in Three Mile Harbor, the Grucci fireworks show is also a fundraiser for East End programs.

ww.Clamshellfoundation.org

Kelly Killoren Bensimon

Kelly Killoren Bensimon arrived at Chris Burch’s C. Wonder boutique on Main Street in Southampton on Saturday to sign her new book “I Can Make You HOT!”

You have to love an event where the first person standing in line is an aging man in a polo to buy “I Can Make You HOT!.”  He was a bit surprised to find out it was about dieting.  Rubbing herself in honey is, alas, only Kelly’s skin softening trick.

It is admittedly hard to resist the allure of the long-legged, bright-smiled beauty in person.  While Kelly admits in the book, “I don’t want to pretend that I’m ‘just like you.’  To do that would be disingenuous, and you wouldn’t believe me anyway,” she does share her experience as an athlete, model, and mother to lead a healthy and happy life.

As she notes, “If you think people aren’t attracted or drawn to you, it’s not because you aren’t skinny; it’s because you aren’t fun.”  She also advocates turning off the electronics and getting active in the world, “Human contact is HOT; texting is not!”

Here are few secret fashion tips Kelly revealed to HipHamptons.com:

• “Pearls are hot!  I wore pearls a lot on the Real House Wives.”
• “Wear jeans a size smaller.”  (Well okay but beware of the danger of popping a button which flies across the room and blinds the Pug.)
• “Go for small, fitted blazers.  If your arms look thin, it makes your boobs look bigger.”
• “Triangle bathing suits are the most flattering.”

Here are a few diet tips she shared with us:

• “Treat your body like a Ferrari which needs premium fuel.”
• “The rule is six days on and one day off.  Every time someone tells me not to do something I have to do it.  So Sunday is indulge day.”
• “Do one thing for yourself and one thing for someone else every day.”
• “Drugs don’t work.  Diet fads don’t work.  Liquid diets don’t work. Eating Kleenex to make yourself feel full does not work. (wow never even heard of that one!)  Eat – just think about how you eat.  Exercise, sleep and be fun.”

Also know that there is such a thing as too thin.  Kelly describes herself as a “skinny bag of anxiety-starved bones” after Season 3 of The Real Housewives of NYC.  “I never in a million years thought I’d become the victim of a story line.  But the press went to town with an assumption, and I was a mess as a result.”

She talks about the stress of “Going through a divorce, being sued, and having your integrity defamed by strangers on national television.”  However her final verdict on the reality series is, “While it wasn’t always fun and games, to put it mildly, I have absolutely no regrets.”  She even thanks Jill Zarin in her acknowledgments.

Things you would be surprised to know about Kelly:

• Dolly Parton tops her playlist
• She never dines out late and turns off her phone at 10pm
• She lost out on the top spot of a national modeling contest at sixteen to Cindy Crawford
• She eats pancakes (albeit made with soy milk) with her hands
• High heels are part of her workout routine, a boost to her ballet squats
• Kelly never skips a meal
• Prenatal are her vitamins of choice
• She graced the cover of Playboy at 41
• Truffle oil is her favorite ingredient – lots of taste without the calories
• She has enormous butt envy of Khloé Kardashian

The book is also full of recipes – Our Hip Hamptons pick?  Pasta With Oddkavodka Sauce

Jetsetters in the Hamptons are used to the best of the best and demand the same for their four legged friends.  For the pampered Hamptons hound, the Hamptons Canine Concierge has arrived.  This includes everything from 24/7 house calls for routine or emergency care to  massage therapy, furcials (facials), pawdicures (pedicures) yoga, swimming lessons, play dates, personal stylists, gifts, acupuncture, private jet services, drivers and more.  The dog days of summer just went luxe.

Hamptons Canine Concierge was created by Dr. Cindy Bressler and Edward Alava. Dr. Bressler is a House Call Veterinarian who has been treating Hampton’s dogs since the summer of 2004. Dr. Bressler teamed up with Edward Alava, owner of Manhattan’s Upper East Side dog boutique and spa, The DOG Store, to create a canine-only luxury concierge company, which will provide all things needed for Hamptons pets.

Dr. Cindy Bressler

Dr. Cindy Bressler, who has been featured in Hamptons magazine, New York Magazine, and other major publications, and who appeared on The Real Housewives of New York City and Animal Planet, has been providing pets with concierge veterinary care in the Hamptons and NYC. Available 24/7 for routine care and emergencies, Dr. Bressler travels to clients’ homes to treat pets in the middle of the night—from Southampton to Montauk–so pet-owners don’t have to trek to the emergency hospital in Riverhead. She is the only doctor that provides in-home hospitalization for pets. Dr. Bressler ensures that her clients stay healthy all summer. She is known for her compassionate care and her love of animals.

Edward Alava

Edward Alava opened The DOG Store in early 2009 targeting an upscale clientele. He offers grooming services and a variety of dog food products and accessories, as well as a line of chic bags. He has exclusive relationships with the Waldorf Astoria and Regency Hotels, both pet-friendly hotels. His clients are amongst the “who’s who” of the world, from well-known celebrities and international royalty, to the financial and business movers and shakers of Manhattan. Alava will be offering in-home grooming, styling and spa services for dogs as well as providing luxury accommodations for Hamptons dogs.

Hamptons Canine Concierge service experts include:

Lisa Hartman, a nationally recognized dog trainer
Best Pet Rx, a full-service veterinary compounding pharmacy
Chef Karmen Almeida, a canine private chef in the Hamptons
FUR by J Mikel, a luxury skin care line for dogs
Canine Celebration, an exclusive canine event planning company
Throw Me a Bone Inc., a private travel companionship and canine personal assistants service
Transpetation, a luxury pet transportation service

Check out their reception on June 30th from 4p to 6p at Mayfair Jewelers on Main Street in East Hampton

For more information call 631-255-8556, email info@hamptonscanineconcierge.com or visit www.hamptonscanineconcierge.com.

If you are looking for one of the top Hamptons spas, Naturopathica is your destination.  They have some of the most highly trained therapists who not only give the best Hamptons massages, they know how to work with injuries, stress and fatigue and you leave feeling at least a few inches taller.  They are starting a new program to give back to the community and give you a great discount.

On Friday, June 22, 2012, Naturopathica Healing Arts Center and Spa celebrates local food and charitable causes with the year’s first East End Friday. This monthly event at the East Hampton Spa offers discounted facial and massage treatments, treats from a local business, and donates $5 from every spa treatment to a local community organization.

For June’s East End Friday, Naturopathica is partnering with Project MOST and East Hampton Gourmet Food. On Friday, June 22^nd, clients can enjoy 20 percent off of any soothing holistic spa or facial. Clients looking to maximize their experience or share it with a friend will receive 30 percent off when booking two or more relaxing treatments at once. The spa will also donate $5 from every treatment to this month’s local charity, Project MOST, a non-profit that offers valuable enrichment and supervision to children during the after school hours. Additionally, clients will be treated to baked goods from the area’s East Hampton Gourmet Food.

“At Naturopathica, we value the local organizations and businesses that make East Hampton a great place to live and work,” says Naturopathica Founder and CEO Barbara Close. “We are excited for this opportunity to give back to our community businesses and organizations and support their great work.”

www.naturopathica.com

WellNEST in Sag Harbor

On the eve of the summer solstice – health and well being are front and center.  If the only thing front and center is your protruding muffin top or emotional baggage here’s a chance to get the scoop on cleansing and juicing as well as Astrology/Psychology readings at WellNEST in Sag Harbor.  Also be sure to check out their yoga/healing classes and visit the store which carries Floracopeia some of the best essential oils around.  Here’s the inside scoop from one our favorite Hamptons Healers:

Philip McCluskey

The last weekend in June @ WellNEST is going to be filled with transformative and amazing programming! We have juicing/ weight loss/ raw food expert/ motivational speaker, Philip McCluskey, hosting a “Cleanse & Juicing” Workshop (if you want to know the real deal on juice and cleansing this is a must!) AND we have Francis Dunnery holding private Astrology/Psychology readings on Saturday, June 30th & Sunday, July 1st.  For those of you who want to see Francis in NYC, he will be at The Ash Center on Monday, June 25th.  Francis and Philip are both not-to-be-missed powerhouses and massively life changing!

Philip McCluskey- Juicing and Cleanse Workshop; Sat, 6/30, 10:30-4:30pm

Philip McCluskey is a sought-after motivational speaker, author and weight loss expert who inspires and educates thousands worldwide about the raw food lifestyle, after he lost over 200 pounds naturally.  After thirty failed diet attempts… and the looming prospect of gastric bypass surgery, raw food saved Philip’s life, transforming him from a morbidly obese 400 pounds to a fit, energized and glowing 185 pounds. www.philipmccluskey.com

Participation Fee: $157

Francis Dunnery- Astrology/Psychology Sessions.  NYC: Mon, 6/25.  Hamptons: Sat 6/30 &  Sun 7/1

Experience Francis Dunnery’s unique Astrology/Psychology approach to healing therapy. His meaningful conversation and interpretation of your birth chart will dissolve blockages and help you move forward to your best life! Francis sees individuals, couples, and business relationships.

Fee: $250 for private one hour session.

Michelle Farmer Jewelry photo by Eric Striffler

You know the moment.  You feel on top of the world and you walk into a party only to see – horrors – someone else in the exact same dress.  For the fabulous female (or male) you want something unique.  The new Michelle Farmer Collaborate which opened on Main Street in Bridgehampton has a collection you won’t find anywhere else with emerging talent from the fashion scene.  This is your best Hamptons boutique destination.

Michelle Farmer Collaborate

Michelle whose hand designed jewelry adorns many a graceful neck from the Hamptons to Palm Beach, decided to carefully curate a boutique which featured several different designers.  The fashion trend for summer 2012?  “All color, and effortless chic,” says Michelle who is also designing a new resort wear line.  “Especially here in the Hamptons, it’s understated with ease.  You can pair a beautiful flowing silk top over a pair of white jeans then add sandals or heels.”

Michelle Farmer

The one thing her designers have in common is attention to detail and beautiful fabrics from a poncho by Manu’ Cashmere to crisp linen from Pure Lino to flowing Love Shack Fancy silk dresses to bejeweled bathing suits from Anika Brazil.

Cashmere color choices

And if you see something you like but might want it in a different color, or want to change the neck line or sleeve like on one of Lauren Gabrielson’s silk tops — no problem.  The designers can custom create for you.  And before you run to check your VISA limit – it is surprisingly affordable.  Many of the price points are around $250 to $300.

Old Bull Lee men's shorts

For men, the Old Bull Lee vintage Italian print shorts are perfect paired with a breezy linen shirt or colorful Strong Boalt swim trunks.

Designer Lauren Gabrielson photo by Rob Rich

Michelle carries the Jennifer Creel sunglasses with cool details like wood or leather accents and colorful beach towels from Coco & Allie.   If your eye catches the sensuous photos on the wall from Eric Striffler, you can buy those too.  The dramatic lighting is from HelenBilt.  Keep an eye out for a new line of shoes to arrive shortly.

Shamin Abas & Samantha Yanks at opening

Unlike some stuffy stores, Michelle Farmer Collaborate is fun.  Really.  You’re meant to come in and play.  Keep an eye out for trunk shows and special events (we loved the cupcakes and beefcakes – hunky fire fighters – who served at her opening party).

Coco & Allie beach towels

And here is your HipHamptons insider tip – consider this your bridal and bridesmaid store.  For the chic wedding party that wants something sophisticated and unique, Michelle can help you custom create your look.  Her diaphanous white gown practically flew out of the store the first week.

www.michellefarmer.com 631-604-1850  2491 Montauk Hwy Bridgehampton NY

Chefs & Champagne®

2012 HAMPTONS BENEFITS

It’s a full Hamptons Fundraiser season benefiting many worthy causes. Here are a few ways to make the most of each event:

• Take time to learn about the cause and find out how you can further get involved.
• Note there are often ticket discounts if you are a member of the organization.
• Some events have a cocktail hour or junior ticket which is less expensive.
• Buy in advance – there may be a discount and some Hamptons benefits do sell out.
• I’m going to sound like your mother – Smile – these are leaders of business, arts, and society – introduce yourself.
• A wedge heel is your best friend – most of these events are on grass or sand.

List of Hamptons Fundraisers Summer 2012:

Midsummer Night Drinks – God’s Love We Deliver – June 16

Private home – East Hampton

Held in the gorgeous gardens of the East Hampton home of Tony Ingrao & Randy Kemper, this evening of cocktails and music benefits God’s Love We Deliver which delivers high quality nutritious meals to people with serious illnesses.

Tix start at $300

www.glwd.org

Madoo Conservancy

Much Ado About Madoo – June 16

Madoo Conservancy – Sagaponack

The wonderful gardens of Robert Dash, the Madoo Conservancy are a must see and this day long event which features a garden market, lunch and lecture, and cocktail party.

www.madoo.org

Heart of the Hamptons – American Heart Association– June 23

Hayground School – Bridgehampton

The gala honoring Jeffrey Moses MD and Layne Lieberman-Liebelson R.D., raises funds for the American Heart Association. The sophisticated evening of cocktails dinners and dancing is also known for its silent and live auction with great items. Fox News Bill Hemmer is the evening’s emcee.

Tickets start at $500

www.Heart.org

Live Out Loud – June 23

Private Residence -East Hampton

Held at a beautiful waterfront home the evening benefits the not for profit organization Live Out Loud dedicated to inspiring and empowering LGBT youth by connecting them with LGBT role models in the community.  Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, then dinner and dancing.

Tix start at $150

www.liveoutloud.info/

Group For The East End

Group For The East End Gala – June 23

Wolffer Estate Vineyard – Sagaponack

Celebrating its fortieth anniversary, the gala with special guest Alec Baldwin raises money to preserve the environment and natural beauty on the East End. Wolffer Estate Vineyards is the perfect en plein air setting and a great crowd gathers for cocktails, dinner, and dancing under the tent.

Tickets start at $500

www.groupfortheeastend.org

Hamptons Golf Classic

Hamptons Golf Classic VIII – Monday June 25

Hampton Hills Golf & Country Club – Westhampton Beach

The event founded by Zev Norotsky and presented by Hamptons Magazine will bring celebrities and Hamptonites together for a day-long golf tournament to raise money for charity. This year’s Hamptons Golf Classic will be hosted by Giants star running back & Super Bowl champion Ahmad Bradshaw and will honor Lawrence Citarelli Jr. The 2012 event will benefit the International Rescue Committee, which works to provide emergency care for refugees of humanitarian crises worldwide. Limited player foursomes are available at $3000.

www.hamptonsgolfclassic.info

Beaches & Bays to Benefit the Nature Conservancy

We have to support the organization which helps protect the very natural environment which drew us all out here in the first place.  An evening of cocktails, dinners and dancing will be held at the Nature Conservancy center in East Hampton.

Tickets start at $600 with $160 for Juniors under 30

www.nature.org call 631 329 3981 x19

Stony Hill Stables photo Debbie Rosengard

Stony Hill Stables Foundation – June 30^th

Stony Hill Stables – Amagansett

This Amagansett horse farm and riding school is starting a foundation to provide scholarships for locals to continue their equitation training. The benefit cocktail party will feature a dressage exhibition and a performance from the Pony Drill Team.

Tickets $125

www.stonyhillstables.net

Everything is Coming Up Roses – Southampton Rose Society – June 30

Private home – Southampton

This most fragrant evening draws in rose and garden enthusiasts as well as Southampton society. Held in a gorgeous private garden, it’s a stunning setting for cocktails to benefit SRS and their beautifying efforts as well as educational programs.

Tickets start at $175

www.southamptonrose.org

Unmasked to Benefit Global Witness  – July 7th

The A list of Hollywood and the Hamptons will be at this fundraiser of the Alexander Soros Foundation.  Held at Fairview Farm in Bridgehampton, the evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing and a performance by MC Hammer will feature guests in festive masks.  The host committee includes Anne Hathaway, Emma Thompson, and Robert Redford.

Tickets start at $1,000

www.alexandersorosfoundation.com

Love Heals at Luna Farm

Love Heals at Luna Farms – Alison Gertz Foundation for AIDS Education – July 7

Luna Farms – Sagaponack

This is always a favorite of the younger social set with drinks, dinner, dancing and one of the best silent auctions given all the fashionistas who support the event. Benefitting the Alison Gertz Foundation For AIDS Education, the Hamptons fundraiser is held under a big top tent in a farm field. More than one married couple has met here – remember that smile advice.

Tickets start at $250

www.loveheals.org/LUNA

Parrish Art Museum Midsummer Gala – July 14

Parrish Art Museum – Southampton

This event issues a fond good bye to their space on Job’s Lane before moving to their new Water Mill location. Honoring the “Creative Spirit of the East End” including painter Chuck Close, choreographer Paul Taylor, and writer/historian Barbara Goldsmith among others this benefit features drinks, dinner, and dancing in a totally transformed tent. It is the social summer destination for top artists, philanthropists, corporate and social leaders. The After 10 Party with drinks, dessert, and dancing is a favorite of the younger social jet set.

Tickets start at $1000

Tickets for After 10 Party start at $150

www.parrishart.org

DJ Lady Bunny Hamptons Tea Dance

Empire State Pride Agenda Hamptons Tea Dance – July 14

The Ark Project – Water Mill

Over 1,000 guests come out for the funnest dance party of the season with DJ Lady Bunny to benefit the LGBT rights organization. There’s special fun for the kids as well. This is the destination for key political figures and industry and design leaders. It does sell out so buy your tickets early.

Tix start at $150

www.prideagenda.org/Fundraising-Events/Hamptons-Tea-Dance

LongHouse Reserve

LongHouse Reserve Gala – July 21

LongHouse Reserve Gardens – East Hampton

Bright lights of the creative world always arrive thematically dressed for this enchanted evening in the gardens. This year Composition Long House Summer Gala honors Robert Wilson and Dorothy Lichtenstein. It is always a magical night.

Tickets cocktail hour 6 – 8 $350

Tickets seated dinner start at $750

www.longhouse.org

James Beard Chefs & Champagne®

James Beard Chefs & Champagne® New York – July 21

Wolffer Estate Vineyard – Sagaponack

One of the best culinary experiences of the summer where guests sample delectable bites from local and New York city top chefs. Paired with fine wine from Wolffer and a selection of the best bubbly – it is the epicurean’s delight. This year they honor Ted Allen and the judges of the Food Network’s Chopped. Along with benefitting the James Beard Foundation they announce scholarship for rising local culinary talent.

Tickets start at $200 for James Beard members and $275 others

www.jamesbeard.org/chefsandchampagne

Rock The Dock – Bay Street Theatre – July 21

Long Wharf – Sag Harbor

Held on the Long Wharf in Sag Harbor you get to party next to some of the fanciest yachts in the world. The benefit draws stage and screen illuminaries and will feature cocktails, dancing, tapas and more.

Tickets start at $550

www.baystreet.org

Unconditional Love

Unconditional Love – Southampton Animal Shelter Foundation – July 21

Private Residence – Southampton

Viewed as a model for the country this local animal shelter brings out animal lovers from all walks of life. Held at the beautiful waterfront home of Sandra McConnell the cocktail party fundraiser honors Chuck and Ellen Scarborough.

Tickets start at $500

www.southamptonanimalshelter.com

Rock The Farm – July 21

Ocean View Farm – Amagansett

This is a favorite of the young social set to enjoy an open bar, great American BBQ and live music by Steel Pulse and others. There is almost always a surprise musical guest. Best of all it benefits the Wounded Warrior Project and many of the veterans attend the event.

Tickets $125

www.stephentalkhouse.com

Super Saturday

Super Saturday – Ovarian Cancer Research Fund – July 28

Raising over 3.5 million dollars last year, this is the feel good shopping extravaganza of the summer. Over 200 designers bring fabu goods at fabu prices. There’s also a carnival and games and fun for the whole family. It’s a celeb haven with Donna Karan, Ariel Foxman, InStyle, and Kelly Ripa hosting. Bring your gold card.

www.ocrf.org

HEAT – Benefit Ellen Hermanson Foundation – July 28

Private Home – Water Mill

Benefitting the Ellen Hermanson Breast Center at Southampton Hospital, this celebrity chef tasting event is held at the waterfront home of Dr. Howard and Gayle Sobel. Honorary Chairs are Katie Couric and Fern Mallis.

Tickets start at $300

Tickets for Juniors (35 and under)$2oo

www.ellensrun.org

Watermill Center Gala photo by Lovis Dengler

Watermill Center Gala – The Big Bang July 28

Watermill Center – Water Mill

The worlds of theater, art, fashion, design, and high society come together for this visceral experience on the grounds of Robert Wilson’s Watermill Center which provides a unqiue environment for young and emerging artist to explore new works. Summer program participants from 30 countries will create 8 acres of installations and performances throughout the grounds during the event.

Tickets $500 cocktail

Tickets start at $1000 patron

www.watermillcenter.org

Great Chefs Dinner

Great Chef’s Dinner – Jeff’s Kitchen & Jeff Salaway’s Scholarship Fund – July 28

Hayground School – Bridgehampton

If you want to taste the best of the Hamptons, this is the place for you with tasting stations of the best Hamptons chefs. The cocktail party also includes local wine and cocktails, silent art auction and live music. Afterwards a special dinner is served in Jeff’s Kitchen which serves as a culinary school for kids and adults and funds also benefit the scholarship fund to the Hayground School named after the beloved restaurateur.

Tickets $150 Meet The Chefs cocktail party

Tickets $750 Dinner in Jeff’s Kitchen

www.greatchefsdinner.com

Art For Life “Living In Color” – July 28

Russell Simmons hosts the 13th annual Garden Party Gala at his East Hampton Estate to benefit the Rush Philanthropic Arts Organization which exposes inner city youths to the arts.  Guests will be serenaded by Anita Baker, Salt N Pepa, and Diggy Simmons.  A- listers of the art, music, and philanthropic community come together at this bright and bold event where guests dress in summer’s hottest colors.  The Benefit Committee includes Deepak Chopra, Cameron Diaz, and Edward Norton.

Tickets start at $1500 www.boomset.com/artforlife www.rushphilanthropic.org

Southampton Hospital Gala – Grand Prix Monaco– August 4

Tent Wickapgue & Old Town Roads – Southampton

With a 54 year history the Southampton Hospital Gala is always on the calendar of the sophisticated socialite with founding families and bold faced names. The evening features cocktails, silent auction, raffle, dinner and dancing with an orchestra. This year it benefits the Jenny and John Paulson Emergency Department.

Tickets start at $750

www.southamptonhospital.org/Calendar/Special-Events

Through Farms and Fields

Through Farms & Fields – Peconic Land Trust Fundraiser – August 5

Whitecap Farm – Water Mill

This Sunday country supper celebrates the local produce and raises money to protect the land which grows it. Held at the picturesque Whitecap Farm the evening features a live and silent auction, hay wagon tours, dinner and dancing.

Tickets start at $275

www.peconiclandtrust.org

Guild Hall Summer Gala – Celebrating Eric Fischl: Beach Life – August 10

Private Location – East Hampton

With a long history of growing famous artists, the Hamptons community comes together for this party of the season with cocktails and fabulous live art auction followed by a tented sit down dinner at a fabulous (shhhh) location. The gala benefits Guild Hall which has a vast array of cultural programming and art exhibits.

Tickets start at $1000 patron

Tickets for Juniors $300 and Juniors Cocktails $100

www.guildhall.org

Authors Night

Authors Night – Benefit for the East Hampton Library – August 11

Gardiner Farm – East Hampton

More literary talent is gathered under one tent than can be imagined. Over 150 authors participate with a special cocktail party book signing to benefit the East Hampton Library. Guests then continue to a series of private dinner parties hosted by the Hamptons most glamorous residents in honor of different authors.

Tickets $100 cocktail party

Check website for dinner ticket prices

www.authorsnight.org

Apollo In The Hamptons – August 11th

Held at the stunning estate of Ronald Perelman, the third annual event is a musical and society star studded event to raise money for Apollo Theater’s education, community, and artistic programs.  Guests will be thrilled to know that Usher and the Isley Brothers will both be performing as well as special surprise guests.

Tickets are only available as a table of 10.

www.apollotheater.org

ARF Beach Bash – August 18

Bridgehampton Tennis & Surf Club – Bridgehampton

The Animal Rescue Fund brings out the animal lover in everyone as you look into the faces of rescued dogs and cats. They call this the Jewels of Summer with its oceanside setting and fresh produce from land and sea with a front seat to watch the moon rise. Guests enjoy cocktails, raw bar, dinner, and dancing with a silent and online auction.

Tickets start at $500 with Junior (35 and under) tix at $200

www.arfhamptons.org

Harvest East End

Harvest East End – Food & Wine Classic – August 25

Snake Hollow Road – Bridgehampton

Harvest East End celebrates the wine region on the East End and brings together the best wine and food flavors at a don’t miss tasting. The evening benefits East End Hospice, The Group For The East End, and the Peconic Land Trust.

Tickets start at $125

www.harvesteastend.com

Azuero Earth Project – Azuero On The Harbor – Sept. 1

Private Residence – East Hampton

Held at the Springs harbor front home of artist Cindy Sherman, the inaugural event with feature a picnic of tapas and cocktails with an art auction and performances by Rufus Wainwright, Laurie Anderson, Ruben Blades and Luba Mason. The organization was founded to preserve the earth’s ecosystems and promote healthy living communities.

Tickets start at $1000

www.azueroearthproject.org

It wasn’t just Delilah who knew the power of good hair.  Your best Hamptons hairdresser ally is Francesca Mercer Padilla.  The worldly “Frankie” as she is affectionately known has traveled from London to Manhattan to Palm Beach and Bogota and has now fixed on the Hamptons.  She has been trusted with the tresses of Hillary Clinton and high level diplomats at the US and British Embassies in Columbia.  Clearly she can keep a secret which is amazing because there is a theory that when your head is massaged during a shampoo there is a trigger point which makes you spill all the goods.  No wonder our hairdressers are our therapists!

Frankie works at the top end of the spectrum with Goldwell, Redken, and Bumble & Bumble products and is renowned as a master mixologist of hair color.  She’s also fluent in the Brazilian Blow Out at a fraction of a salon’s costs.  Francesca only works privately and not in a salon.  You can go to her secret location or she can come to your home.  Book early and often for the sexiest summer hair in the Hamptons.

Francesca: fdsalon@live.com

photo by Richard Lewin

Loraine Boyle, Blythe Danner, Martha Plimpton, Reina Schiffrin Pres/CEO PPHP

The Bridgehampton benefit for Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic on Saturday celebrated its 25^th and also its most important year to date with the rallying cry of what guest speaker award winning actress Martha Plimpton called, “taking care of the needs of women versus the ambition of politicians.”  Plimpton who has been active in the organization for years encouraged everyone to participate to protect, “the most recognizable and trusted source of sex education and women’s health care.” 

Denise Bolds with Smart Wheels camper

The funny and firey Plimpton was the first to go into the mobile Smart Wheels sex ed camper to get tested for HIV, one of the services the mobile smart wheels unit offers including education on sexual health and free condoms and snacks.

April Gornik who created a special lithograph with sales benefiting Planned Parenthood added her outrage at the attack on Planned Parenthood and the twisting of its mission.  She noted that it was the rationality and compassion of this organization which is its strong suit and was the place she first went in the ‘70s for affordable and confidential birth control and counseling.

April Gornik & Eric Fischl

Other notable guests included philanthropist Dorothy Lichtenstein, writer Loraine Boyle, producer Barry Sonnenfeld, artist Eric Fischl, and producer/actress Susan Ringo.  The Silas Marder Gallery hosted the gathering which included delectable bites from Nick & Toni’s and wine from Amagansett Wines & Spirits with music from Escola de Samba BOOM.

Silas & Charlie Marder

Special edition beach towels were also sold to benefit the organization designed by Barbara Kruger, Ed Ruscha and Karen Kilimnik whose we loved with the message, “The study of friction and wear on the mating surface.”

Planned Parenthood sex health centers in Suffolk, including the center in Amagansett, fill a vital need for the East End community.  Over 90% of PPHP’s services are preventative, including cancer screenings, prenatal care, and testing and counseling for sexually transmitted diseases.

Escola de Samba BOOM

Guests were all treated to Isaac Mizrahi’s decorator condoms called:  Proper Attire… required for entry.  Style and safety all rolled into one.  Perfect.

Isaac Mizrahi Proper Attire condom

For more information:  www.pphp.org

photo by Debbie Rosengard

Hidden away off Town Lane in Amagansett is your Hamptons horseback riding heaven.  If you’ve been dying to take a riding lesson or have your child atop an adorable pony, Stony Hill Stables is your answer.  Open to the public, the five decade old Hamptons horse farm opens its stall doors to anyone interested in learning horsemanship.  Says Founding Board Member of the new Stony Hill Stables Foundation Maureen Bluedorn, “It’s a labor of love to stay in business.  It’s like farming where it is a part of a family history.  People comment on their first time here how beautiful it is, to be outside in this natural environment.  Even the parents love to come and absorb the atmosphere while their children ride.”

photo by Sunny Khalsa

In a commitment to make the sport of kings affordable to everyone, Stony Hill Stables has also created the Stony Hill Stables Foundation which will be offering full equitation scholarships to local residents (for info on how to apply www.stonyhillstables.net.)  Maureen explains, “We want to keep the girl next door coming here.  We’re dedicated to keeping locals involved and when someone has potential to be able to keep opportunities open.”  They will be kicking off the Foundation with a Benefit Cocktail Party on Saturday June 30^th from 6 – 8pm with a special Dressage Exhibition and Pony Drill Team Performance.

Wick Hotchkiss

Second generation owner and USDF silver medalist in dressage Wick Hotchkiss trains some of the top equestrian athletes but also feels the need to encourage those with less means to participate.  Hotchkiss comments, “It’s been my life long dream to be able to make the equestrian experience more accessible in our community.”

The trainers at Stony Hill Stables are skilled in equitation, hunters, jumpers and dressage.  Whether you are a beginner or advanced student they offer everything from single lessons to horse and pony leases as well as stabling for your own fine steed.

photo by Sunny Khalsa

Riders can start as young as four years old and find a community at Stony Hill through their summer camps or group lessons.  “We’re all about teamwork here,” Maureen states, “We want to increase everyone’s confidence and instill good sportsmanship.”  Unlike some show barns, Stony Hill wants to keep the all-for-one and one-for-all attitude going.  A mother watching her daughter ride commented, “We live in DC in the winter, and I wish we could transplant the farm there.  The level of professionalism is amazing here and even in a half hour lesson my daughter can learn so many things.”

photo by Sunny Khalsa

In the age of smart phones, games, iPods, and all things technological, Hamptons horseback riding offers kids and adults a chance to decompress and enjoy an amazing animal and nature.  Luckily so far no one has invented the iPony.

Stony Hill Stables, 268 Town Lane, Amagansett NY 11930 631-267-3203 www.stonyhillstables.net

Lexington Clothing Company, a Stockholm based company with outposts all over the world opens its first anchor store in the US in true red, white, and blue fashion.  Just in time for Memorial Day this home ware and clothing store delivers everything from comfy bedding for your new summer home to table décor for your first soiree to a stylish sweatshirt for a beach BBQ.  Located at 73 Main Street in East Hampton, it’s also a great stop for the perfect hostess gift, especially if you want to be invited back.

Lexington CEO and Creative Director Kristina Lindhe notes, “The culture and style in East Hampton is casually relaxed, yet sophisticated and this is primarily our focus.  Stylistically clean and simple but at the same time elegant with a phenomenal quality.  The people, the houses and beaches here have for years given us inspiration when designing new collections.”

Nina Churchill describes it as a young brand with classic taste.  She tells the story of one decorator who came into the store for sheets and decided they wanted the whole house to look like this.  Note they also have their own decorating service located in the office upstairs.  Lindhe sources only the best European cottons so get ready to snuggle whether it’s with your pillow or the shirt you steal from your boyfriend.

And if you’re planning a party, you can choose from the themed table cloths, place mats, and napkins.  How do you say Cheers! in Swedish?

Lexington Clothing Company, 73 Main Street, East Hampton NY 855-539-1993 www.lexingtoncompany.com

By Heather Buchanan

Right out of the Hamptons social season starting gate, one of the most important fundraisers of the season leads off Memorial Day Weekend. The Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic East End Benefit will be held on Sunday May 27, 2012 from 5pm to 7pm at the Silas Marder Gallery in Bridgehampton.  Guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with catering from Nick and Toni’s and have the chance to bid on a silent auction.  The proceeds will support PPHP’s medical and education services in Suffolk County.

Martha Plimpton

And it’s simply an amazing party with a top notch guest list of artists, designers and Martha Plimpton as this year’s special guest speaker (love her on the Good Wife!).

With Amagansett Wine & Spirits sponsoring and Escola de Samba Boom playing their intoxicating Brazilian drums, it will the place to be.  And where else can you leave with samples of Isaac Mizrahi’s specially designed Proper Attire condoms?

It is hard to imagine in 2012 that even birth control is being questioned (see my Huffington Post political commentary – No Birth Control? Better Start the Sex Savings Account) and Planned Parenthood needs its advocates to speak up.

Acclaimed artist April Gornik talks about her support of this event:

“I sent out hundreds of emails about the benefit and had an amazing response because Planned Parenthood is on everyone’s radar and the need to support it is stronger than ever.  It was horrifying to me to see the attacks on PP from congress and how many misunderstood its mission.  In spite of the strife it has helped educate the public about its services from cancer screenings to prenatal care.”

Gornik also shares her personal story, “My debt to this organization goes back a ways. I was raised Catholic, and the first birth control I ever got was from Planned Parenthood.  I would not have known where to go or how to afford it otherwise.”

That is many women’s story not only as using Planned Parenthood as young women but as they continue through their lives.  As anyone knows who has tried to purchase health insurance, the cost for a single person can be $600 a month.

April Gornik "Light On The Sea"

April Gornik also lends her talents as an artist to the fundraiser – having created a lithograph for the silent auction.  She describes the work as an enspirited image – a seascape with rising clouds and light on the horizon.

Hopefully the benefit will be the light on the political horizon to show the broad based support for this critical health care institution.

WHEN: Sunday, May 27, 2012

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

WHERE: Silas Marder Gallery

120 Snake Hollow Road

Bridgehampton, NY

COST: $300 per person

Junior ticket (35 & under) ~ $150 per person

Sponsor tickets from $500 per person

CONTACT: Beverly Katz (914) 467-7341 orbeverly.katz@pphp.org

events@pphp.org, orwww.pphp.org

The Hamptons are quite familiar with revenge but mostly as a dish best served cold.  While the hugely successful series “Revenge” on ABC is supposedly set in the Hamptons, it actually films in Manhattan Beach, California with the famous Grayson Manor and Emily’s beach house located in North Carolina.  Star Emily Van Camp who plays Emily Thorne just tweeted “Checking out the Hamptons for a photo shoot today.  There’s a first time for everything:).”  Girlfriend!  You are the most stylish bad ass in the Hamptons and you’ve never actually been here?  Let us know next time and we’ll give you the inside tour (and forget those stilettos, Hamptons gals wear wedges – you know the polo field parties and all.)

Emily Van Camp

Revenge was in town in the estate section of East Hampton and the Montauk docks this winter for a few shots but that’s about it.  If you are obsessed with the show and want to get a little bit closer to that high end Hamptons style, however Gilt City is running a special sale with both actual items from the set as well as items which could be found in these swanky homes.

Grayson Manor

You have Victoria Grayson’s elegant estate or Emily Thorne’s cozy chic beach house to choose from.

Victoria's chair

Gilt City’s special sale has the Zentique Amelie Slipper Chair on sale for $550 from the retail $890

Zentique Amelie Slipper Chair

If you want the real deal straight from the set you can also buy the Grayson Pool house framed map of Long Island for $830

Graysons Poolhouse Map

From Emily’s beach house you have a whole host of seaside chic items you can purchase.

On Gilt City you can buy a Villa Home MDX Milano Pillow on sale for $48 from the original $89.99 retail.

Villa Home MDX Milano Pillow

But of course the most coveted item from the set, Emily’s porch swing which was built by her father has already sold for $1200.

Emily's porch swing

With the second to last episode of the season airing tonight – take note of your interior design must haves.  And ABC, how about spreading some love out here in the Hamptons?  We’d love to host you.  Don’t make us mad now because you know what happens when a Hamptons girl gets a bee in her bonnet…

Andrra photo by Daniel Cabrera, Dario J. Pantosin

If you think Hamptons men are commitment phobic – they’ve got nothing on Hamptons restaurants.  Each year new eateries emerge in time for Memorial Day madness.  Yet after the seasonal rush many quietly shut their doors and abandon their facebook pages.  Here are some summer romances we hope will last.

Welcome the lineup of new Hamptons restaurants for summer of 2012.  See if you can follow the in and out.  Cheers!

David Loewenberg at The Beacon

Out – Oasis In: The Bell & Anchor

In Sag Harbor on 3253 Noyac Road top Hamptons’ restaurateur David Loewenberg of the much beloved The Beacon Restaurant, Fresno, and redbar Brasserie is opening The Bell & Anchor with partner Executive Chef Sam Mcleland working his seafood magic with fresh fish and lobster.  The marina waterfront location is undergoing a top to bottom renovation with a new easy breezy feel.

www.bellandanchor.com

Out – Beachhouse In: The Hamptons Players Club

The Hamptons Players Club gallops into East Hampton at 103 Montauk Highway.  The equestrian and polo themed restaurant from Frank Cilione and partners will feature modern American fare from chef Hector Diaz.  The three tiered space features a formal dining room and bar with outside beer garden and fireplace and VIP lounge.  Check out our feature story.

www.hamptonsplayersclub.com

Andrra photo by Daniel Cabrera, Dario J. Pantosin

Out – Boathouse In: Andrra

This harbor-front spot is always a sunset favorite.  The new Andrra located at 39 Gann Road in East Hampton takes advantage of its waterfront setting on Three Mile Harbor.  Owners Sami Krasniqi who is the Executive Chef, Noti Krasniqi, and Rich Silver with Consulting Chef William Valentine will be bringing a Mediterranean seafood and chops concept to the recently renovated space which will include a late night lounge.  HipHamptons insider tip:  Happy Hour Mondays from 3 to 8p with a complimentary appetizer with drink.

www.andrra.com

Muse In The Harbor photo by Tara Berkoski

Out – Pomme Café In: Muse In The Harbor

Muse formerly in Water Mill has moved into Sag Harbor to be Muse In the Harbor at 16 Main Street.  They’ve redone the space in blue hues around the signature 8 x 4 tropical fish tank featuring new American cuisine from Chef/owner Matthew Guiffrida with occasional live music.

www.museintheharbor.com

Nammo's

Out – Nello’s In: Nammo’s Estiatorio

Located in the charming Old Post House at 136 Main Street in Southampton, Nammo’s has renovated the interior for ample lounge and DJ space.  Look for a Mediterranean themed menu.

631-287-5500

Out – Philippe In: Beaumarchais A La Plage

This Meatpacking District favorite adds a French flair to its new location at 44 Three Mile Harbor Road in East Hampton next to SL East.  Look for their signature Beau Brunch and DJ Driven Dinners.  You have to love a restaurant with this philosophy, “Drinking when we are not thirsty and making love at any time is all that distinguishes us from the other species,” Pierre Beaumarchais.  And here we thought it was the opposable thumb.

www.brasseriebeaumarchais.com

Out – Exile In: Sotto Sopra

At 231 Main Street in Amagansett this Northern Italian eatery takes its place in the Randy Lerner crown jewels of Amagansett.

631-267-3695

Zum Schneider

Out – Oyster Pond In:Zum Schneider

This beloved Bavarian Bierhaus from NYC comes east to Montauk at 4 South Elmwood.  We’re hoping the Oompah band will head east as well.

www.zumschneider.com

surf lodge

Out – Surf Lodge In: Surf Lodge-Lite?

It may be a kinder and gentler Surf Lodge.  After months of legal issues over code violations it was taken over by Montauk Properties LLC with principal Michael Walrath who moved from a minority position to sole ownership.  He indicated he wanted to place nice in that very sexy sandbox as he is himself a local.  He’s stated his intentions to stick to a more simple and mellow plan.  As long as Nancy Atlas is there playing Wednesday nights and you do something about the longest line to the ladies room in the Hamptons we are happy campers.

www.surflodgemontauk.com

Out – Lenny’s In: Swallow East

Michael Walrath is also the new owner of the dockside restaurant Lenny’s in Montauk with partner Jimmy Tchinnes and is reported to be looking to open a fun and family friendly restaurant at that location.  We hear mojitos on the dock and local striped bass tacos are on the way at 474 West Lake Drive.

www.swallowrestaurant.com

Historic Topping Rose House

Out – Bull’s Head Inn In: Topping Rose House

Topping Rose House will open in Bridgehampton in late summer 2012. Welcoming guests year round, the full-service inn will be home to 22 guest rooms and a restaurant from acclaimed chef Tom Colicchio with a menu focusing on vegetables. Originally constructed in 1842, the Greek revival mansion that was once the Bull’s Head Inn is undergoing a top-to-bottom restoration.

www.toppingrosehouse.com

photo Megan Whitmarsh and My Barbarian  “Tourists From The Future” photo by Rosalie Knox

One of the Hamptons best secrets is a secluded cultural oasis where some of the most amazing emerging artists from all over the world gather to experiment and collaborate.  And guess what?  You’re invited.

The Watermill Center was founded by Robert Wilson to provide a living laboratory where artists in residence could explore new ideas in a unique environment.  Tucked away on the back roads from Southampton, the six acre compound is a stunning modern vision with concrete buildings to house living, performance and exhibition space set in expansive lawns with outdoor sculpture gardens.

Watermill Center photo by Lovis Dengler

Wilson, whom The New York Times called “a towering figure in the world of experimental theater,” wanted to create a cultural think tank which embraced the global and local community.  Through their programs, The Watermill Center invites artists to investigate, challenge and extend the existing norms of performance practice.  During the fall and winter these two to four week residencies culminate in a presentation of the work-in-progress to the public.

Program Director Kathie Russo explains, “The Watermill Center is a haven for the next generation of artists. The works you see at Watermill during our Fall / Spring Residency Program are not finished products, but works in progress. It is a unique opportunity to be present for the early stages of new work. Each residency event is paired with a Q & A with the artists followed by a reception where you can informally discuss the work with other community members and the artists themselves.”

At these intimate affairs you truly feel like you’d dropped in on the Hamptons version of a Paris salon (absinthe not included.)

Theo Adams "Entertainment"

And don’t worry.  You don’t have to dust off your Dostoevsky or Dada to participate.  While many of the performances are avant-garde, they are meant to be experienced on a personal level, and audience members have diverse reactions which only make the discussions of the piece more fascinating.  Performances range from full on musical theater productions such as Entertainment from the London based Theo Adams Company to deconstructing music down to 1-bit electronics from the innovative team of Tristan Perich & Argeo Ascani.  This is your chance to be behind the curtain to see the creative process before these works go on to be performed at major venues.

And the cost of this very cool evening?  Free.  You just need to make reservations in advance.  Upcoming events May 14th Melati Suryodarmo “A Conversation With The Black.”

Bruce Weber interview photo by Jake Schlichting

The Center also houses Robert Wilson’s extensive collection of art and artifacts and a library with over 16,000 titles.  The beautiful thing is that this is a place of study, not a museum, so it is okay to touch.  Check to see their open hours where you can peruse books on art, architecture, design, theater, dance, music, or photography or view Wilson’s impressive collection of chairs, ceramics and textiles.  Through June there are also guided tours amongst the working artists on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Summer Benefit - photo by Lovis Dengler

The Summer Program expands to 50 to 100 artists from 30 nations for a five week exploration of artistic development with a free open house for the public on August 12th.  And the biggest night of the year and one of the Hamptons most exciting and exclusive fundraisers is The Big Bang – The 19^th Annual Watermill Center’s Summer Benefit held on July 28, 2012.  For this one you do need your check book but it’s worth it.

The Watermill Center, www.watermillcenter.org 39 Watermill Towd Road, Watermill NY 631-726-4628

The Hamptons Players Club is riding in style into East Hampton to no doubt be one of the Hamptons hottest new restaurants. The polo/equestrian themed restaurant and lounge takes over at 103 Montauk Highway where Beachhouse used to reside. Think bareback beauties meet polo empresarios with the Hamptons unique mix of locals and jetsetters.

Owner and Operator Frank Cilione gave us a personal tour to describe his vision for this three tiered dining experience. Cilione says of the allure, “The space itself is architecturally one of the most stunning in the Hamptons.” The open dining room and expansive bar will also include communal tables for large parties or individuals who enjoy the art of rubbing elbows. A new sky blue ceiling echoes summer sunsets en plein air with special LED lights to change the color and mood, sensual being on speed dial.

Outside the pergola covered stone terrace transforms into a beer garden of Eden serving a healthy casual menu with room for lounging around a new fireplace. As the moon starts to rise, the back room goes chill lounge with a DJ to host the after dinner crowd, VIP’s or private parties. As Cilione says, “There’s not a bad seat in the house.”

While the Palm Beach and Bridgehampton Polo set will consider this their summer spot, The Hamptons Players Club is destined to be a year round destination, and Cilione wants to make sure there’s something for everyone including “friendly prices.”

Chef Hector Diaz from The Forge in Miami and Tsunami in Palm Beach is excited to create a modern American menu for the Hamptons Players Club with specialties from the wood burning oven. He’s also committed to a healthy and calorie conscious crowd. While we were there he was trying to source skinless chicken wings which is apparently quite a challenge.

Many Hamptons restaurants like many Hamptons men have a serious commitment problem. Cilione and his partners, however, are walking down the aisle with an 11 year lease. Says Cilione, “We’re committed here.  We have a team which is dedicated to making The Hamptons Players Club phenomenal with broad appeal for everybody.”

And here’s your HipHamptons inside scoop – Sunday is going to be fun day with barefoot ping pong tournaments. Don’t be surprised if Nacho or Nick Roldan shows up. With large screen TV’s Hamptons Players Club will also be the place to watch the Olympics and World Cup.

Look for the soft opening Mid-May and once Memorial Day arrives it’s Tally Ho!

www.hamptonsplayersclub.com 631 324 1663

Maribeth Edmonds, Seith Mann

By Heather Buchanan

In the beginning there was the word – or in the case of modern day screenwriters, the blinking cursor.  Film directors are often credited for wonderful movies, but without the script there would be nothing but a bunch of people standing around a craft service table.

The Hamptons International Film Festival celebrated the 12^th year of its HIFF Screenwriters’ Lab on April 13^th to 15th.  I actually founded the Lab after working with the festival and noting its director-centric concentration.  As a writer, I felt it was important to acknowledge and nurture screenwriters.  The lab has proven to be a huge success – identifying up and coming screenwriters and pairing then with industry veterans to improve their scripts and move them towards production.  The intimate Hamptons weekend is nothing less than magic for those involved.

David Nugent, Doron Weber, Karen Arikian, Holly Herrick

“The Screenwriters’ Lab is one of our most stimulating year-round activities, because we work with artists during the early phases of the creative process,” states Director of Programming, David Nugent, “The Lab’s relaxed exchange of ideas and creative energy allow us to support emerging artists which is very important to us.”  Nugent is known for his eye to pick film talent.  Numerous films including THE ARTIST which showed at HIFF went on to win Academy Awards.  Maribeth Edmonds who ran the lab with Nugent this year commented on the extraordinary number of accomplished scripts which were submitted.

Following the Lab, the festival will assist writers in connecting them with important industry contacts, and continue to support the writers as they revise their scripts.  According to Executive Director, Karen Arikian, “Thanks to the vital support of the Sloan Foundation, selected screenwriters will also be invited back to the festival in October to continue to refine and advance their projects. The staged reading that they participate in is an initiative that we think is crucial to nurturing the next generation of artists.”

Doron Weber with Carolyn Kras, Laura Oaksmith

From the start Doron Weber who runs the program for Public Understanding Of Science and Technology at the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has supported the program.  The Sloan Foundation’s sponsorship and Weber’s enthusiasm help create this invaluable experience for writers.  The five writers and four mentors are invited for a working weekend in the Hamptons to discuss their scripts in depth.

Screenwriters Hawk Ostby, Seith Mann

With the generous participation of HIFF Board Members they are also hosted to the swank Hamptons and get to socialize with prominent members of the local artistic community.  Think Paris Salon meets Hollywood roundtable at an East Hampton oceanfront estate courtesy of Board Member Judy Licht.  Chairman of the Board Stuart Match Suna who owns Silvercup Studios, Board members Rand Stoll of Lionsgate Television, Producer Kim Brizzolara and Producer Jeff Sharp exchanged ideas with IRON MAN writer Hawk Ostby, GREY’S ANATONY director Seith Mann, TAKE SHELTER’s producer Sophia Lin, and Laurie Collyer whose new film SUNLIGHT JR.  stars Naomi Watts and Matt Dillon.

Kim Brizzolara, Stuart Match Suna, Rand Stoll

The Lab’s mentors are incredibly accomplished and give back by working with these up and comers.  The chosen screenwriters also are quite impressive in their own right.  Keep an eye out for these talented participants and come to the readings at the 2012 Hamptons International Film Festival which runs from Oct. 4th – 8^th.

2012 Screenwriters’ Lab Mentors
1) JON ROBIN BAITZ is an acclaimed playwright, screenwriter, and actor. OTHER DESERT CITIES, which is currently running on Broadway, won the Outer Critics Circle Award in 2011. His other plays include THE FILM SOCIETY, THE SUBSTANCE OF FIRE, THE END OF THE DAY, A FAIR COUNTRY (Pulitzer Prize finalist 1996), THE PARIS LETTER, a new adaptation of HEDDA GABLER (Broadway, 2001), and many others. His TV work includes PBS’s version of his play THREE HOTELS, for which he won the Humanitas Award, and episodes of WEST SING and ALIAS. He also created the hit TV show BROTHERS & SISTERS, which ran for five seasons. His screenplays include THE SUBSTANCE OF FIRE and PEOPLE I KNOW. He is a founding member of Naked Angels Theatre Company, and on the faculties of the MFA programs at The New School for Drama, and SUNY Stony Brook/ Southampton.

2) LAURIE COLLYER is an award winning film director and screenwriter. Her highly acclaimed 2006 film, SHERRYBABY, was awarded the Crystal Globe for Collyer and Best Actress for Maggie Gyllenhaal at the 2006 Karlovy Vary International Film Festival; Best Actress at the Milan International Film Festival; a National Board of Review Award for Top Independent Film; and was nominated for numerous other prestigious awards including a Golden Globe, a Gotham Award, and the Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize. Her documentary NUYORICAN DREAM won the coveted Joris Ivens Award at Cinéma du Réel festival, as well as the Audience Awards at both L.A. Outfest and Seattle Lesbian & Gay Film Festival. Her latest film, SUNLIGHT, JR., starring Norman Reedus, Naomi Watts, and Matt Dillon, is currently in post-production.

3) SOPHIA LIN won the Piaget Producers Award at the Independent Spirit Awards, and in 2011, she was named one of Variety’s Ten Producers to Watch. Her production credits include Vincent Gallo’s BUFFALO ’66, David Gordon Green’s ALL THE REAL GIRLS and UNDERTOW, and Craig Zobel’s GREAT WORLD OF SOUND, which garnered three Gotham Award nominations (including winning the Breakthrough Director Award) and two Independent Spirit Award nominations. Sophia’s recent production, TAKE SHELTER, directed by Jeff Nichols and starring Michael Shannon and Jessica Chastain, won the Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival Critics Week, was nominated for two Gotham Awards and five Independent Spirit Awards, and was named one of the Top 10 Independent Films of the Year by the National Board of Review. Her most recent production, Craig Zobel’s COMPLIANCE, premiered at Sundance 2012 to critical acclaim, and will be released by Magnolia Pictures. Sophia’s next production, a horror film by newcomer Jeff Brown, THE BEACH HOUSE, will begin production this summer.

4) HAWK OSTBY is an Academy Award-nominated screenwriter. A native of Oslo, Norway, Ostby lived in India, Malaysia and Singapore before moving to the United States. His screenplay credits include FIRST SNOW, CHILDREN OF MEN (for which he won numerous awards, including a USC Scripter award, and was nominated for an Oscar), and the blockbuster hits IRON MAN and COWBOYS & ALIENS. His upcoming projects include INSIDE OUT and AKIRA, an adaptation of the hit Japanese anime film.

2012 Screenwriters’ Lab Participants, Screenplays and Project Descriptions:

1) ELEANOR BURKE and 2) RON EYAL – BRIGHT AS DAY
In BRIGHT AS DAY, set against the backdrop of the recent London riots, a disaffected teenager finds a temporary refuge from the adult world as she bonds with a run-down old horse from the local, urban riding stable.

Writers’ bios:
Eleanor Burke and Ron Eyal are a writing and directing team who use actor-centric filmmaking methods. They were recently featured in Filmmaker Magazine’s “25 New Faces of Independent Film.” Burke and Eyal started their collaboration while attending NYU’s Tisch Graduate Film Program, where Burke received a fellowship for excellence from director Ang Lee. Their debut feature, STRANGER THINGS, won the Grand Jury Prize for Best Narrative Feature at the 2011 Slamdance Film Festival; Best U.K. Feature at the 2011 Raindance Film Festival; and Best Feature at the 2010 Woodstock Film Festival. It was an official selection of the 46th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, BAMcinemaFest, and IFP’s Independent Filmmaker Lab, where it won the lab’s top award, the Independent Filmmaker Lab Finishing Grant. Eyal is a fellow of the Toronto International Film Festival Talent Lab and Burke is a fellow of the talent lab at the Edinburgh International Film Festival. The duo recently directed a short film, THE TIME MACHINE, which is currently in post-production.

3) CAROLYN KRAS – MAGNETIC
In MAGNETIC, William Gilbert, an eccentric doctor and physicist whose theories are rejected by all his colleagues, reluctantly takes on the most dangerous patient in England, Queen Elizabeth I; will he lose his head or his heart to her?

Writer’s Bio:
Carolyn Kras is a Los Angeles-based writer for screen and stage. Her screenplay MAGNETIC is currently in development with producers Diane Nabatoff and Alex Ross and won the following awards: the Alfred P. Sloan Carnegie Mellon First Place Screenwriting Award; First Place Award (period genre category) in the Screenplay Search contest; Second Place Award in the Writemovies.com contest; and Nicholl Fellowship Quarterfinalist recognition. Carolyn’s plays have been produced or developed at The Looking Glass Theatre, Centenary Stage Company, Pittsburgh Irish & Classical Theatre, Theatre Seven of Chicago, the Great Plains Theatre Conference, and Theater Masters National M.F.A. Playwrights Festival. She was a finalist for the Heideman Award from Actors Theatre of Louisville and served as an Artist-in-Residence at the Ragdale Foundation. Carolyn holds a B.A. in Drama from Washington University in St. Louis and an M.F.A. in Dramatic Writing from Carnegie Mellon University.

4) SEITH MANN – COME SUNDAY
COME SUNDAY is a story about a father, a son and the Black, Baptist church.

Writer’s Bio:
Seith Mann is a Morehouse College alumnus and a graduate of the Graduate Film Program at New York University. His thesis film, FIVE DEEP BREATHS, premiered at the 2003 Sundance Film Festival, won Best Narrative Short at the 2003 IFP Los Angeles Film Festival, and the 1st Place King Award and The Carl Lerner Award for Film with Social Significance at the 2003 New York University First Run Festival. It was subsequently selected to screen at the 2003 Tribeca Film Festival and the Cinefondation Competition at the 2003 Cannes Film Festival. Seith won the Gordon Parks Award for Emerging African-American Filmmakers in the Best Directing Category at the IFP/New York Market. Seith also received the Emerging Narrative Award, the Gordon Parks Award and for Screenwriting and the Richard Vague Film Production Fund Award for his feature screenplay, COME SUNDAY. Seith completed the prestigious ABC/DGA Television Directing Fellowship Program, where he shadowed on television shows including GREY’S ANATOMY and ALIAS. To date, Seith has directed over thirty episodes of television including THE WIRE, GREY’S ANATOMY, HEROES, FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS, NURSE JACKIE, DEXTER, and many others. He has been nominated for a DGA Award, five NAACP Image Awards, and won a NAACP Image Award for Directing for his episode of FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS.

5) LAURA OAKSMITH – THE BUCK DECISION
THE BUCK DECISION is based on a true story. George, a transplanted city journalist and Doris, a rural housewife, find themselves working together to expose the hidden practices of the local hospital. For this unlikely pair, it’s a personal quest, and together they uncover the dark history of the eugenics movement in the U.S.

Writer’s Bio:
Laura Oaksmith is currently an executive recruiter with Cavan Executive Search, a NYC-based retained search firm specific to non profits and higher education. Earlier in her career, Laura was the VP of Distribution for Gotham Entertainment Group, and then went on to co-found Acetylene Entertainment, distributing independent films nationally. Laura began her post graduate career in Virginia state politics, working on a successful gubernatorial campaign. She was then appointed as the Virginia Film Commissioner by two consecutive Governors. Following her tenure as film commissioner, Laura then served as the Executive Director of the Virginia Film Festival at the University of Virginia. A second screenplay of Laura’s, FRAN’S SURVIVAL, was recently selected by Zoetrope as a top ten finalist out of 2,500 submissions.

This is the see and be seen event to kick off the Hamptons Social Season of 2012.  Mingle at the Parrish Art Museum fundraising event with artists, socialites, and moguls.  There will be a live band by Todd Barrie Music, delectable hors d’oevres donated from Sant Ambroeus, a bargain silent auction with everything from designer accessories to local business services, and an open bar featuring delicious specialty drinks, free wines from Niche Import Co., martinis by Glacier Potato Vodka and Southampton Public House ales.

With the new museum set to open fall of 2012 this may be a nostalgic last turn around the dance floor at this historic  location.

Saturday April 21st from 7:30 to 11pm – Parrish Art Museum 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton  631 283 2118 www.parrishart.org

Tickets for members $100, non-members $150 and $175 at the door and a special for Young Professionals of $85 (age 30 and under with ID)

It’s back!  One of the top Hamptons Happy Hours is game on starting this Friday April 20^th at 5pm, Wolffer Vineyard Wine Stand’s Sunset Fridays.  They kick off with a kick *** band – namely drummer Richie Siegler of Escola de Samba BOOM fame who brings his quartet Jazz Meets Samba to serenade the crowd.

Wolffer Sunset Fridays are held out on the lawn with a view of the vines – what could be better than hot jazz, cold wine, and old and new friends.  Forget your cares and woes – no griping about taxes or pasty white legs which are not supposed to have seen daylight in April or the price of lobster salad.  Be free to be free at one of the best Hamptons vineyards.

INSIDER TIP: Buy a bottle rather than a glass.  It’s a better value and you don’t have to stand in line for a refill.

To celebrate the new release of their I-weep-when-they-run-out Wolffer Rosé the farm stand will also host the Wolffer Rosé Release Party on Sunday April 22 from 1 – 5pm for a cost of $25 which includes complimentary cheese, a complimentary glass of rosé and live music from Radio Europa.  Taste the voodoo that winemaker Roman Roth do with this pink nectar.

Baroness Sheri De Borchgrave and Roman Roth

Mark your calendar as the sultry Vanessa Trouble and her band play on Sunset Fridays on April 27.

Wolffer Vineyard Wine Stand 3312 Montauk Highway, Sagaponack www.wolffer.com.

Dan Menaker interviews Larry Kirshbaum

Photo Credit: WW Burford

One of the great things about the Hamptons is we never know what power player is going to show up in our own expensively landscaped back yard.  Better yet, we may not have to crash the VIP tent at Polo or a Meadow Lane cocktail party to meet them.  At the most recent Writers Speak Wednesdays at Stony Brook Southampton College sponsored by their MFA in Creative Writing and Literature Program, the New York head of Amazon Publishing Larry Kirshbaum was interviewed by Dan Menaker.  Menaker who is the former fiction editor for The New Yorker has a new book, A Good Talk – The Story and Skill of Conversation, and demonstrated those skills in an entertaining evening.

Larry Kirshbaum, a highly respected publisher and agent was hired by Amazon to head up its own internal New York based publishing imprint last July.  Would this be a game changer?

Kirshbaum comments, “Amazon is a large company but we’re a small start up of 20 – 25 people.  We operate like a small publishing house with a large marketing division.”

Marketing to the tune of direct access to a data base of one hundred million readers where Amazon can suggest to purchasers similar books they might like.  As Kirsbahum puts it, “If you like X, we will be the Y.”

The publishing entity is based in New York while the company is based in Seattle.  Kirshbaum describes it as an intense environment but a lot of fun.  The new position adds fire or should we say Kindle Fire to Kirshbaum’s literary passion.  He confesses, “I love books.  My wife is a big gardener, and she says, ‘You’d rather read about gardening than do it.’”

Larry Kirshbaum describes the publishing process as a collaborative effort where the he and his staff meet once a week for editorial meetings with marketing. “I’d rather have one person who is passionate about a book versus seven who are luke warm,” he states.

His philosophy served him well when he was at Little, Brown and Company and an unheard of manuscript from a housewife about a supernatural romance came in.  “I asked, ‘Does anyone care about vampires?’ My editor Megan Tingley thought she had the Holy Grail, and she did.”  That originally titled manuscript Forks of course was the best selling Twilight for which he did agree to a significant six figure advance on the trilogy.  “You learn to respect your colleagues,” he points out.

Along with successes are also missed opportunities.  Larry Kirshbaum relates, “I also had the Mitch Albom proposal and thought it was very depressing. I told him to stick to sports.  When my mother passed away and as I was sitting shiva, four people had neatly wrapped Tuesdays With Morrie to give to me as a gifts.  It was humbling.”

Clearly it’s a lot more fun to say yes than no.

Kirschbaum says, “I’m proudest about building authors.  We’re committed to finding talent and nurturing it and making it work over time.  Our philosophy at Amazon is to discover books and put marketing into them.  The main lament is a great book that comes out and no one knows it exists.”

With the long arm and long tail of Amazon, that’s not going to be a problem.  Another benefit is the deep pockets of Amazon to make a pre-emptive bid on a desirable title.

They have a print licensing agreement with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt which will publish Amazon Publishing East Coast Divison’s adult titles in a print version through a new imprint New Harvest.

Starting out Amazon Publishing will put out two lists per year totaling around 40 or 50 books.

The first books to come out under Amazon Publishing comprise a diverse slate with everything from business books to a memoir from an exiled Chinese poet.  Here are a few examples:

The 4-Hour Chef by Timothy Ferriss

My Mother Was Nuts by Penny Marshall

Hillbilly Heart by Billy Ray Cyrus

Elimination Night by anonymous –   TV reality show behind the scenes

Why Have Kids?  The Truth About Parenting and Happiness by Jessica Valenti

Jeff One Lonely Guy by David Shields, Jeff Ragsdale, Michael Logan which tells the true story of reactions to a flyer put up by Ragsdale for lonely people to call to talk.

The Care of Wooden Floors by British novelist Will Wiles

Outside In: The Power of Putting Customers at the Center of Your Business by Jarley Manning and Kerry Boldine

A Song and a Hundred Songs by Liao Yiwu

Keep an eye out for the Stonybrook Southampton Summer 2012 Workshops in film, theatre, the visual arts, and creative writing.  More top literary luminaries will be teaching at this amazing event.  Note the deadline is May 12^th.  www.southamptonarts.org.