#chrisriggs #art

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Chairman of Ferragamo USA to Lead the 75th Annual Columbus Day Parade Up Fifth Avenue on October 14, 2019

NEW YORK – June 20, 2019 – The Columbus Citizens Foundation announced today that Massimo Ferragamo, the Chairman of Ferragamo USA, has been named Grand Marshal of the 75th annual Columbus Day Parade. Mr. Ferragamo is a proud Italian, who divides his time between Italy and the USA, and is deeply involved in the Ferragamo business started by his father in California in the 1920’s.

The annual Columbus Day parade, the largest celebration of Italian-American heritage and culture in the United States, will take place on Monday, October 14, 2019, beginning at 11:30 a.m. As Grand Marshal, Mr. Ferragamo will lead dozens of marching bands and floats and over 100 marching groups up the Fifth Avenue parade route, from 44th Street to 72nd Street.

In naming Mr. Ferragamo Grand Marshal, Columbus Citizens Foundation President Marian Pardo praised his success as a prominent Italian business leader and referenced his contributions to philanthropy and community service.

“Massimo’s role as the vanguard of a classic Italian brand makes him the perfect choice to serve as Grand Marshal for our 75th Anniversary of the Columbus Day Parade,” Ms. Pardo said. “And his individual accomplishments in wine-making and the creation of one of the most luxurious getaways in Italy; Castiglion del Bosco, are exceptional. His status as an Italian with roots in both Italy and the USA are perfectly themed to have him lead our Parade as we celebrate our Diamond Anniversary.”

“I am honored and pleased to join the ranks of distinguished Italians and Italian-Americans who have served in this incredibly special role before me,” Mr. Ferragamo said, “The special relationship between Italy and the United States has been at the core of the Ferragamo business since its inception, and I’m so very proud to accept this honor also in memory of my parents Salvatore and Wanda who loved the USA as if it were their second home country. It is wonderful to be able to celebrate all the creativity and blessings that come with our two great countries working together. My family and I are so excited to march up Fifth Avenue on Columbus Day.”

In addition to the ongoing development of one of the world’s most iconic luxury fashion labels, Mr. Ferragamo purchased the property Castiglion del Bosco in 2003. “CdB” is one of the 25 wineries who founded the Brunello di Montalcino denomination, and has been producing wine from the early 1900’s. Mr. Ferragamo, together with his wife Chiara, developed Castiglion del Bosco into a 5 star plus luxury resort currently managed by the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Group.

The tradition of a Columbus Day Parade began when Generoso Pope led a group of Italian Americans from East Harlem to Columbus Circle in 1929. The parade was formalized as an official celebration of Columbus and Italian heritage in 1994, and this year’s event marks its 75th Anniversary.

Past Grand Marshals of New York’s Columbus Day Parade have included: Sophia Loren; Frank Sinatra; Luciano Pavarotti; Lidia Bastianich; Joe DiMaggio; Mario Andretti; Roberto Cavalli and Maria Bartiromo.

Event: Columbus Day Parade

Location: Fifth Avenue from 44th – 72nd Streets, New York City

Date: Monday, October 14, 2019

Hours: 11:30 AM – 3:00 p.m.

Broadcast: WABC-TV, 12 Noon – 3:00 p.m.

ABOUT THE COLUMBUS CITIZENS FOUNDATION

The Columbus Citizens Foundation is a non-profit organization in New York City committed to fostering an appreciation of Italian-American heritage and achievement. The Foundation, through a broad range of philanthropic and cultural activities, provides opportunities for advancement to deserving Italian-American students through various scholarship and grant programs. The Foundation organizes New York City’s annual Columbus Celebration and Columbus Day Parade, which has celebrated Italian-American heritage on New York’s Fifth Avenue since 1929. For more information, contact jwilson@columbuscitizens.org

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Summer in the City Presented by Yelp Reservation

Honoring Jacob “Pickles” Hadjigeorgis, Fri., May 18, 7-10 p.m.

Best of the West Presented by Park West Village

Honoring Dovetail’s John Fraser, Sat. May 19, 7:30-10 p.m.

Under the Grand Tent at O’Shea Complex Schoolyard, Columbus Ave., West 76th-77th Sts.

NEW YORK (May 10, 2018) – The 2018 Taste of the Upper West Side (Taste UWS) Presented by American Airlines and Mastercard will highlight local chefs and restaurants, and the event debuts of a dozen exciting new restaurants. On Saturday night, a special section of signature bars and well-known mixologists will add to the festivities for the first time. During the two-night celebration, more than 80 featured restaurants will present extraordinary fare, along with unlimited wine tastings and live music under a magnificent tent spanning the entire block between West 76th and 77th Streets.

Now in its eleventh year, the annual food-based fundraiser Taste of the Upper West Side is the brainchild of the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District (BID), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit representing merchants and property owners on Columbus Avenue, from West 67th Street to West 82nd Street. In addition to introducing Upper West Side restaurants to new patrons in the neighborhood and beyond, Taste of the Upper West Side has raised significant funds benefiting such worthy organizations as Wellness in the Schools and Citymeals on Wheels, among others. Through these much-loved events, the BID was able to purchase and donate 19 solar-operated trash bins for Theodore Roosevelt Park, helping to eradicate a rodent problem. Proceeds over the years also have gone to the BID’s signature Neighborhood Streetscape Beautification program and its acclaimed sustainable streetscape in front of the O’Shea School Complex, which has become a haven for the community, as well as an educational tool for the students.

“This year, we are proud to be promoting two of our own ‘hometown’ heroes, Jacob Hadjigeorgis and John Fraser,” says Barbara Adler, Executive Director of the Columbus Avenue BID. “We are constantly amazed at the new and talented chefs and restaurants coming to the Upper West Side. It is wonderful to be able to showcase them at our Taste UWS events, sometimes before their new restaurants have even opened.”

Friday, May 18, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Summer in the City Presented by Yelp Reservations

Grand Tent, O’Shea Complex Schoolyard, Columbus Avenue between West 76th and 77th Streets

Summer in the City kicks off the annual two-night food event with highly-anticipated debuts of restaurants and bars, along with longtime local favorites. This year’s honoree is beloved chef and restaurateur Jacob Hadjigeorgis, owner of Jacob’s Pickles, Maison Pickle and, opening soon, Lucky Pickle Dumpling Co. Among the many new restaurants introducing innovative fare will be Zen Taco, Twin Palms, Amelie, Make My Cake, Elea, Recolte, and Vai. In addition, scores of neighborhood favorites will be joining the party again this year, including Playa Betty’s, Jing Fong, Bodrum, AG Kitchen, and FishTag. As always, there will be unlimited wine, spirits and music by DJ Phresh – all centered around innovative seasonal food prepared by 40 of the Upper West Side’s most sought-after destinations.

Cost: $115 per person; 2 for $195

(Purchased at the door: $135 per person)

Saturday, May 19, 2018 from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Best of the West VIP Reception Presented by 21 West End

Grand Tent, O’Shea Complex Schoolyard, Columbus Avenue between West 76th and 77th Streets

An exclusive, hour-long preview of the event, the Best of the West VIP Reception provides an opportunity for participating guests to mingle one-on-one with celebrity chefs and restaurateurs, including this year’s Best of the West Honoree Chef John Fraser, recognized worldwide for his Michelin-starred and award-winning restaurants Dovetail, The Nix, Narcissa, and The Loyal. With limited attendance, special seating area, early entree to the evening’s food, spirit, wine, and beer presentations, and direct access to the chefs before the main event, the Best of the West VIP Reception is a memorable experience in a relaxed setting for an entire hour prior to general admission.

Cost: $235 (Limited availability.)

Saturday, May 19, 2018 from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Best of the West Presented by Park West Village

Grand Tent, O’Shea Complex Schoolyard, Columbus Avenue between West 76th and 77th Streets

A highpoint of this year’s Best of the West will be the premiere of a unique section dedicated to signature bars and mixologists, all preparing one-of-a-kind cocktails. Among those participating will be Manhattan Cricket Club, Da Capo, Amelie, Guyer’s, Maison Pickle, Prohibition, and distinguished spirit sponsors Tito’s Vodka and Hiro Sake. Best of the West Honoree John Fraser will be serving epicurean tastings from his Michelin-starred Dovetail, along with 40 other illustrious Upper West Side restaurants, including The LEOPARD at des Artistes, The Milling Room, Red Farm, Rosa Mexicano, and Crave Fishbar. Live music returns with Joe Battaglia & The New York Big Band further enhancing the ambiance of the Upper West Side’s most anticipated event of the year.

Cost: $145 per person or 2 for $260

(Purchased at the door: $175 per person)

In addition, Taste of the Upper West Side will introduce a very special “Supporter” honorific to participants adding $50 on any order. The offer entails a name listing in the four-page event program, next to sponsors and restaurants. More information about Taste of the Upper West Side and ticket purchases are available at www.tasteuws.com

About the Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District

The Columbus Avenue Business Improvement District (“BID”) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that represents merchants and property owners along tree-lined Columbus Avenue, from West 67th to West 82nd Streets. Formed in the landmark district in 1999, its membership includes a diverse range of retailers, restaurateurs and commercial and mixed-use property owners, comprising all the commercial establishments on the Avenue. The Columbus Avenue BID’s district also includes the American Museum of Natural History, Theodore Roosevelt Park, The New-York Historical Society and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.

The Columbus Avenue BID is responsible for developing a wholly sustainable streetscape with the City’s first bioswale between West 76th and 77th Streets. For 10 years, it has produced and hosted Taste of the Upper West Side and is responsible for streetscape beautification efforts that include landscaping, lighting, solar-powered trash receptacles, and more.

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Our namesake, the Margherita, is thought of as a simple cheese pie. Well, we beg to differ. We have taken this pie, which stands as the base for almost all our other pies, and have studied and perfected it. A Margherita is not just dough, sauce, cheese, basil and olive oil. The pie is a blend of love, care, and attention to detail above all.

Either imported or locally sourced, all our ingredients are selected for their quality and authenticity. Simply put, if you care about your food, people will take notice.

At Margherita NYC just about everything we make, from our classic lasagna to our delicious tiramisu, is made in house. So we invite you to join us. We can’t wait for you to come check out our little slice of southern Italy, right here in NYC!

http://www.margheritanyc.com/#about-us

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Our name is a gentle nod to Grenada’s centuries-old history as a leading exporter of nutmeg. Today, our name symbolizes the touch of spice we add to the lives of our guests. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding in Grenada, a magical honeymoon or just a well-deserved getaway on world-famous Grand Anse Beach, we look forward to welcoming you to the “Spice Isle.”

Grenada’s only recipient of the coveted AAA Five Diamond Award

for more info, go to http://www.spiceislandbeachresort.com/

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Grand Master Kim celebrates receiving one of world’s most prestigious awards.

Master Kim’s formula of success is based on hard work, prioritizing his objectives, and promoting his businesses through skilled public relations. His three areas of focus are The Martial Arts, Real Estate Development and Restaurant Management.  http://grandmasterceo.com/bio/

Born in Korea, Master Kim migrated to the United States in 1975 seeking the “American Dream.” He brought with him a knowledge of business and the ancient martial arts to this modern “land of opportunity.” He adapted quickly to the American culture and honed his intellect by obtaining a Bachelors and Masters degree in science and became associate professor at Long Island University, John Jay College, Kingsboro Community College, and The College of Staten Island.

The Martial Arts

As a 9^th Degree Black Belt Master Kim is one of the world’s highest-ranking Grandmasters. Sanctioned by the International and U.S. Olympic Committees, Dragon Kim’s Karate USA chain consists of seven schools in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania. His martial art style was combat tested by the Green Berets. He trained in Vietnam and his discipline’s character building qualities have been proven by the thousands of students that he has taught self discipline, self respect and faithful citizenship. His three oldest sons John, Robert, and David are all masters of the art and carry on the ancient family traditions.

Real Estate Endeavors

• Master Kim owns Hamden Connecticut Walgreen’s Shopping Center
• The Great Kills CVS Shopping Center Staten Island NY is currently in development
• Professional Office at 531-533 Clove Road in Staten Island, NY
• The IHOP Shopping Center in Richmond Avenue, Staten Island, NY
• 1191-97 Clove Road Staten Island, NY Medical Center in development
• 1719 Hyland Blvd., Staten Island, NY Shopping Center
• 1000 Corlies Avenue, Neptune, NJ Shopping Center in development

Boards of Director Positions

• Staten Island Botanical Gardens
• Staten Island Chamber of Commerce
• Staten Island Historical Society
• Staten Island  Mental Health Society
• Staten Island American Red Cross Chapter
• Snug Harbor Cultural Center
• Member of Board of Trustees of Staten Island University Hospital with 7000 employees who serve 125,000 in patients and 475,000 out patients a year.

Local and National Media Exposure

• Time Magazine
• CBS News
• ABC News
• NBC News
• Fox News
• CNN News
• The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
• The Morning Show with Regis Philbin and Cathy Lee
• Late Night with Conan O’Brien
• ESPN
• WPIX News
• Various National Martial Art Magazines
• The Staten Island Advance
• New York One TV Station

Supporter for Charity and Receiver and Civic Awards

• Project Hospitality
• The Salvation Army
• The Central Family Life Center of Staten Island
• The Korean School of Staten Island
• Supporter of ten additional charitable organizations

Master Kim the Man

Master Kim is proud of  his success and the success of all of his seven children. He takes satisfaction from the fact that they are all hard working citizens of the land that Master Kim has grown to love more and more each day. His daily involvement with his IHOP restaurant gives him the opportunity to teach his work ethic to one generation of employees after another. For personal enjoyment he has learned to play the piano, has won ball room dancing competitions, is an avid table tennis player, has acted in a movie and has even done some modeling. He has particularly loved decorating his home that has won numerous architectural awards. He has become known as an effective motivational speaker. Master Kim not only lives the American dream—he encourages others to pursue it.

The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences (AAHS) is an establishment of reviewers specializing in the reviewing of hotels, resorts, spas, airlines, cruise lines, automobiles, products, restaurants and chefs. It is most notably known for its reviews on the hotels, resorts, and travel industries. The Academy started of as a restaurant rating bureau, founded in 1949. The current establishment is an offspring of this early group of reviewers and was officially founded in 1989. The Academy is most known for its International Star Diamond Award.

Organization

The Academy is based in New York City and is directed by Joseph Cinque. The members of the Board are experienced in both travel and the stated industries. The Academy also includes a large board of honorary trustees that serve as regional directors, general managers, restaurateurs, chefs, and other functions.

The International Star Diamond Award

The most known aspect of the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences is the International Star Diamond Award. The award is the most prestigious award of true excellence in hospitality, gastronomy, attitude, quality, cleanliness, and above all service. The Academy receives a large number of possible recipients for the award from respectable sources around the world. The selection is then refined by the Board of Trustees. The final evaluation is a visit by an anonymous inspector to review the destination and its services.

The award itself has multiple formats:

– For hotels and resorts, a set of gold-plated plaques including the logo and engraved signatures of the three board members;

– For restaurants, a set of plaques, both gold and silver-plated, with the logo and signatures;

– For chefs, a plaque with recognition engravings and a medal;

– A framed letter from the Academy recognizing the destination’s winning of the award;

– Lapel pins and cuff links in a jewelry box.

An additional format of a plate has been used for chefs.

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The ancient call of a single crane can trumpet out for miles. And when they all cry out at once the sound multiplies by the tens or hundreds of thousands.

Each spring, around half a million sandhill cranes descend upon a small stretch of the Platte River in Nebraska on their way north to Canada, Alaska and Siberia, from their winter homes in Mexico and the Southwest. Starting around Valentine’s Day through the first half of April, they rest there to prepare for nesting up north.

Thousands of visitors come from all over the world to greet them. This year, biologists at the Crane Trust estimated around 400,000 cranes roosted at the migration’s peak between March 8 and 16. But a quarter-million or so cranes are still gracing the valley with their majesty. As tours become less packed, now is a good time to see them — and hear them.

“The experience — maybe even 60 to 70 percent of it is the sounds,” said Bill Taddicken, director of the Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary in Nebraska. “It sounds a lot like a football stadium when your favorite team scores a touchdown.”

Mr. Taddicken says you cannot see the birds, which migrate thousands of feet above the earth, until they descend.

“These tiny little specks of pepper in the sky will emerge, and then they’ll drop down, become cranes, and they’re here,” he said.

In a single day, the number of birds in the valley can increase by 50,000 or 100,000, crowding the skies like monkeys in “The Wizard of Oz,” Mr. Taddicken said.

But this Oz is real — and critical — for the nearly 80 percent of the world’s sandhill crane population that arrives here.

The river, agricultural fields and wet meadows provide all the protection and nutrients they need to become fit and stock up on energy for nesting. During their brief stay, they can pack on around 20 percent of their body weight. Some also perform elaborate courtship dances, forming pair bonds that may last for life.

About a fifth of the last wild migratory flock of 300-some whooping cranes also stop here along their spring and fall migrations.

Sandhill Crane Migration, Platte River Video by Evan Barrientos

But over the years, dams have transformed the habitat the cranes once occupied. A majority of the birds now squeeze into just 20 or so miles of prime habitat along the river between Kearney and Grand Island, Neb., but around four times that much was all prime years ago.

“The spectacle we see of all of these birds packed into one area is really an indication of a river in peril,” Mr. Taddicken said.

If you want to see the cranes in great numbers, the best time to go is in the morning when they fly out from the river to eat, or the evening, when they fly back to roost on sandbars. The land that offers the best views is mostly private, so you will have to book a tour: Rowe Sanctuary and Crane Trust have some.

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