(Long Island, NY) On Thursday evening July 24th, art experts, supporters and Hamptonites attended Art-Southampton 2014. The five day art event was sponsored by GRAFF Diamonds, Ruinart Champagne, Maserati North America, Saunders & Associates, and Luxe Interiors + Design. Thursday was the VIP Preview benefiting the Parrish Art Museum and Southampton Hospital. The opening night was a two-tiered gala providing exclusive early access to the extraordinary works of over six hundred sixty artists from over forty-three countries for Platinum VIP cardholders.

The evening included informal modeling of GRAFF’s astonishing jewels, Ruinart Champagne, France’s oldest Champagne house and hors d’oeuvres in the Maserati VIP Lounge which was curated by Luxe Interiors + Design and designed by Mitchell Gold & Bob Williamson. The preview continued for all VIP cardholders from 7:30PM until 10PM.

Art-Southampton Director Nick Korniloff and New York Academy of Art Development Director Lisa Kirk pose for a photo-op with Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane at Art Southampton 2014

Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff and Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op at Art-Southampton 2014 on Opening Night

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op in front of the Ferrari exhibited at Art-Southampton 2014

Art-Southampton 2014

Art-Southampton 2014 – Artist Giancarlo Impiglia poses for a photo-op with Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane at Art-Southampton

Art Southampton took place in a spectacular 100,000-square-foot air-conditioned pavilion on the sprawling 18-acre estate behind the Southampton Elks Lodge adjacent to the Southampton Golf Club located directly off Route 27 A.

In the past the event has attracted over 4,200 collectors, art advisers, curators, museum professionals and designers thanks to their influential Host Committee and sponsors.

On opening night I had the pleasure of interviewing Southampton Mayor Mark Epley, Art-Southampton Director Nick Korniloff and Artist Kevin Berlin. On Saturday I was invited to do interviews at ARDT Gallery who featured a variety of artists including Giancarlo Impiglia and Jim Ceravolo

Giancarlo Impiglia packs a huge wallop of Art historical references in his grand compositions. Giancarlo stands on the shoulders of the Italian futurists, recalls the flourishes of Art Nouveau, celebrates the curving geometry of Art Deco and integrates the interesting concept of Cubism.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Mayor of Southampton Mayor Mark Epley, Nick Korniloff Director and Partner of Art-Southampton, Artist Kevin Berlin and Artist Steven Colucci at Art-Southampton.

Giancarlo’s stylized figures inhabit a different world of his own creation. Impiglia’s verve and animation permeate his work. His creations are constantly filled with movement and social commentary.

Jim Ceravolo’s paintings and large-scale portraits have received international acclaim for more than thirty years. Ceravolo’s portraits came to popular attention when he was commissioned to create six large scale portraits for the lobby of The Palladium Theatre in New York City. In addition to these, his portraits are in many influential corporate and private collections.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Laura Petrocelli Events & Marketing of Ferrari-Maserati of Long Island Maserati of Manhattan, Artist Giancarlo Impiglia and Artist Jim Ceravolo from ARDT gallery.

Ceravolo’s portraits combine abstract and realistic work on the same large scale canvas. Some of his work is as large as eight feet making them truly unique works of art. Sometimes the abstract work is in the form of Ceravolo’s trademark “illusion” which appears to be “floating” in front of the canvas, other times the abstract work is a spontaneous application which adds color and texture and is in perfect compliment to the gray realistic portrait. From the start, Ceravolo has charmed and captivated audiences with his ability to so skillfully capture the physical as well as the inner qualities of his subjects.

On Saturday, I also attended a Conversation with Artist Hunt Slonem and Bruce Helander about their recent publication “Bunnies.” The artistic book offers a different approach on “hip hop” culture and an inside view on the painter’s work through comparisons to Franz Kline and Willem de Kooning.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Hunt Slonem, an international art and society celebrity is renowned for his bunny art and this is the first published collection called “Bunnies” and Author Bruce Helander at Art-Southampton.

Afterwards their was a cocktail reception at the New York Academy of Art Booth. President David Kratz along with renowned artist, lecturer and critic John Alexander invited collectors and patrons to meet with featured Academy artists for cocktails and conversation and enjoy the exhibition of their work.

The country’s preeminent school of figurative painting, drawing and sculpture, presents an exhibition curated by renowned artist John Alexander, who brings a unique sensibility to this group show of remarkably talented Academy artists. A portion of sales will go directly to scholarships for Academy students.

Featuring works by: Zachary Brown, Megan Ewert, Elizabeth Glaessner, Angela Gram, Nicolas Holiber, Yunsung Jang, Christian Johnson, Will Kurtz, Bryan LeBoeuf, Michael Meadors, Alyssa Monks, John O’Reilly, Guno Park, Nicolas V. Sanchez, Holly Ann Scoggins, Stephen Shaheen, Aliene de Souza Howell, Maria Teicher, Phillip Thomas, Melanie Vote, Annie Wildey, and Lucy Winton.

I also had a chance to chat with Laura Petrocelli Events & Marketing for Ferrari-Maserati of Long Island and Maserati of Manhattan. Laura spoke about the two featured Maseratis at this year’s Art-Southampton. Ferrari-Maserati of Long Island and Maserati of Manhattan was one of the sponsors for Art-Southampton 2014.

For more information about Art-Southampton please visit http://www.art-southampton.com

(Long Island, NY) Sexy Hamptonites attended the third annual St. Barth Hamptons gala in Bridgehampton. The event took place at the Bridgehampton Historical Society on July 19, 2014, from 6 PM to 10 PM in a billowing white tent under the stars. The festive evening featured exquisite hors d’oeuvres, the finest cocktails and champagnes, a Starbucks Coffee Bar and an Exclusive Escada Lounge.

The French-isle inspired fete celebrated the American beauty’s July cover story of Brooke Shields in the luxury lifestyle publication, Social Life Magazine which hit newsstands that same day. The event was a mixture of fashionable trendsetters and celebrities enjoying the evening while listening to Caribbean music.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Joshua Parker from Eremita Winery, Sarah Morin from Alex and Ani and Vera Moore from Vera Moore Cosmetics at St. Barths in the Hamptons in Bridgehampton.

Brooke, there to promote her cover story in Social Life Magazine, is an American actress, model and former child star. She was born in 1965. Brook Shields started her career as a child model and quickly gained critical acclaim for her leading role in Louis Malle’s controversial film “Pretty Baby” filmed in 1978. In this role Brooke played a child prostitute in New Orleans at the turn of the 20th century. The role garnered Shields widespread notoriety, and she continued to model into her late teenage years and starred in several dramas in the 1980s, including “The Blue Lagoon” in 1980, and Franco Zeffirelli’s “Endless Love” in 1981.

Pete Holmberg from Open Communications and Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op at St. Barths in the Hamptons.

In 1983, Shields abandoned her career as a model to attend Princeton University, where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in French literature. In the 1990s, Shields returned to films appearing in minor roles in films starring in the titular role of the sitcom “Suddenly Susan” which ran for four seasons between 1996 and 2000. Most recently, Shields has made appearances in other television shows, including “That ’70s Show” and “Lipstick Jungle.”

The event was sponsored by Escada, St. Barth Properties, St. Barth Tourism, Brahmin, Cezanne, Nest Seekers, Alex & Ani, Shannon Limeburner and Khari. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Bridgehampton Historical Museum.

Cognac Wellerlane interviews Peter Holmberg at St. Barths in the Hamptons Hosted by Brooke Shields for Social Life Magazine in Bridge Hampton for St. Barths Tourism and Store Manager Min Romano from Brahmin Southampton.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Pete Holmberg, Director of Consumer Marketing at Open Communications about St. Barth Properties. St. Barth Properties has been orchestrating dream vacations, exclusively,on the beautiful island of St. Barth since 1989. The company was founded by President Peg Walsh whose passion and commitment to service the Caribbean vacationer has annually earned her Condé Nast Traveler’s Villa Specialist Award, from its 2006 inception. St. Barths Properties has been named the Best for St. Barth. The company and its team of St. Barth Specialists has also been recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of the best villa rental agencies – worldwide. This beautiful island formally known as Saint-Barthélemy and nicknamed St. Barts, is the jewel of the French West Indies. St Barth is the only island St. Barths Properties represents, guaranteeing everyone the highest level of expertise. St. Barths Properties combines a team of St Barth Specialists with an intimate knowledge of the island and who personally inspect all properties on a regular basis and a superior selection of more than 150 private villas.

For more information about St. Barth Properties please visit http://stbarth.com. For information about the event please visit www.stbarthhamptons.com for further details.

(Long Island, NY) Guests attended the first Legacy of Hope Charity Event hosted by The Order of Malta in Southampton, New York. The Host Committee for the Sovereign Order of Malta’s relief agency, Malteser International, held the inaugural Legacy of Hope Sunset Cocktail reception at the Southampton Historical Museum, 17 Meeting House Lane, Southampton, 11968 on Friday July 18, 2014.

The event celebrated the legacy of the ancient order, the Knights of the Sovereign Order of Malta and Malteser International’s commitment to providing relief and dignity to those caught up in natural disasters or man-made crises.

Music Composer Lucia Hwong Gordon and Philantrophist Jean Shafiroff pose for a photo-op at the sunset cocktail reception for the Knights of Malta to the sick and poor in Southampton.

The Order of Malta is the world’s oldest Christian charity founded in Jerusalem over nine hundred years ago. The order recently opened the first American branch of its humanitarian relief agency Malteser International last November. In 2013, Malteser International has assisted approximately ten million individuals in twenty six countries. The order has delivered over $60 million in aid. The agency has provided emergency relief and recovery aid for nearly sixty years worldwide and has responded to major crises such as the 2004 Asian Tsunami, the 2010 Haiti earthquake, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and more recently, Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. At present they working on the ongoing Syrian crisis. Malteser International assists the vulnerable. The organization continues to help individuals lead a healthy life with dignity, without distinction of religion, race or political persuasion.

Elizabeth Hagins and Rchard Mortimer pose for a photo-op at Inaugural Legacy of Hope Sunset Cocktail Reception Celebrates Commitment of Knights of Malta to the Sick & Poor at Rogers Mansion at the Southampton Historical Museum.

Steven Krawciw, KM, of the Order of Malta’s American Association and a resident of the Village of Southampton chaired the event with the assistance of a Host Committee comprised of prominent residents of The Hamptons, Long Island, New York City and Palm Beach. Committee member include Sherri & Joseph Abruzzes, Cass Almendral, Maura Almy, Sandra Alvarado, Katherine & Gary Andreassen, Angela Anton, Christopher Arnold, Eileen Duff Babcock, Kenneth Craig, KM, Ertel and Erin Dere, Sara Herbert Galloway & Barry Klarberg, Michael Gibbons, KM & Maureen Gibbons, DM, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Constance Hunter, Ann & Vincent Madonia, Ms. Susan Madonia, Joanna Mincarelli, William Morosse, KM and Mar Morosse, DM, Joyce Mullins – Jackson, Ann Rapp, Jean & Martin Shafiroff, Mark & Kim Standish, Nancy Stone, Father Michael Vetrano, Pastor, Basilica of Sacred Hearts of Jesus & Mary, Dr. Frank and Myra Weiser and Daniela Zahradnikova.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane poses for a photo-op with Ed Callahan Public Relations at the Sunset Cocktail Reception for Knights of Malta in South Hampton

Guests enjoyed a special exhibition of photos of various Malteser International’s projects including its work in the Philippines following the devastating typhoon and closer to home their efforts to help Long Islanders post-Sandy. In addition, there was a display of rarely seen memorabilia from the Knights of Malta’s private archives including a replica of the 900-year-old Papal Bull authorizing the mission of the Knights of Malta. Delectable horseshoes from 230 Elm were served along with ales & lagers courtesy of Southampton Publick House and superb wines.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Steven Krawciw, KM, of the Order of Malta’s American Association and a resident of the Village of Southampton chairs the event with the assist of a Host Committee comprised and Dr. Daniel K. Gullo is the Curator of the Malta Study Center for the Hill Museum & Manuscript Library at the Knights of Malta Cocktail Reception Charity Gala at the Southampton Historical Museum in Southampton, NY.

Highlights of the evening included a silent auction of luxury goods, a sumptuous tote bag from designer Berry Brown, luxury fashion from Space 16, a gift basket of bath items from Joanna Mincarelli’s stylish emporium Erika’s Place, VIP Passes to Art Southampton, the premier contemporary and modern art fair for acquiring investment quality art in the Hamptons, a glamorous white cashmere summer shawl from Christopher Fischer, precious jewels form the renowned Tamara Commolli and gift certificates to many of the area’s finest dining establishments.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Executive Director Ravi Tripptap at the Knights of Malta Cocktail Reception Charity Gala at the Southampton Historical Museum in Southampton, NY.

Malteser International is a non-governmental organization with headquarters in Europe and America. The organization’s General Secretariat as well as its European headquarters are located in Cologne, Germany. The American headquarters are based in Miami, Florida, USA. The international network of the Order of Malta plays an essential role in their work assisting people in need quickly and efficiently. Currently, 25 national associations and priories of the Order of Malta are members of Malteser International.

Cooperation and participation are vital elements of their approach to humanitarian aid. Through a close collaboration with local communities, national and international partners as well as our donors, they ensure their projects are sustainable and efficient. Transparency, accountability and the compliance with international standards of humanitarian aid are the fundamental basis for the quality of our programs.

For more information about the vital work of Malteser International, please visit: www.malteser-international.org

(Long Island, NY) Filmmakers, actors, casting agents and individuals from the entertainment industry attended the “Closing Night Party and Awards Ceremony” for the Long Island International Film Expo which took place on July 17 in Bellmore beginning with a delicious buffet in the Filmmakers Lounge from 5:00 – 6:45 P.M. Afterwards filmmakers and guests attended the Bellmore Movies for the entertainment and awards ceremony from 7:00 – 10:00 P.M.

Celebrities that attended the star-studded event included Robert Davi, Sean Young, John Nolan, Brian O’Halloran and Tom Pelphrey. This year Actor Robert Davi was awarded the Long Island Filmmaker Achievement Award and Actress Sean Young was awarded the Creative Achievement Award.

Actor Bill-Lee Lanndis, Actress Sean Young and Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op at the 17th International Long Island Film Expo in Bellmore, Long Island

Over the course of his acting career, Actor Robert Davi has performed in more than one hundred thirty films. He has portrayed the roles of main villain and drug lord Franz Sanchez in the 1989 James Bond film “License to Kill, FBI Special Agent Bailey Malone in the NBC television series Profiler, as Vietnam veteran and Special Agent Johnson in “Die Hard,” Opera Singing Heavy Jake Fratelli in “The Goonies.” Hans Zarba in “Son of the Pink Panther” and Al Torres in “Showgirls.”

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Actor Brian O’Halloran, Filmmaker Debra Markowitz and Filmmaker Dave Feldman at the 17th Longisland Film Expo.

Classically trained as a recording artist and crooner, Robert Davi launched his professional singing career in 2011. His first album, Davi Sings Sinatra — On The Road To Romance, hit No. 7 on the Billboard jazz charts. Praised for his voice and vocal interpretations, Davi debuted as a headliner at The Venetian, in Las Vegas, Nevada, six months after the record was released.

Actress Sean Young attended the School of American Ballet in New York. Before becoming a movie star, Young worked as a model and dancer before becoming an actress.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Actors Robert Davi and Sean Young at the 17 Annual International Long Island Film Expo.

The Long Island Film/TV Foundation is established to stimulate and encourage film and TV production on Long Island. Since film and activities on the Island account for over $140 million dollars in revenues per year, the foundation hopes to invite future projects to our area by working closely with industry executives, financiers, film producers, TV/Cable operators and government officials.

Young began her film career in 1980 in the film “Jane Austen in Manhattan,” followed by a role in the 1981 film “Stripes.” Later Sean portrayed the female lead, Rachael, alongside Harrison Ford in the classic science fiction film “Blade Runner” in 1982. On television in 1986, Young played the woman lead opposite Lenny Von Dohlen in “Under the Biltmore Clock,” based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s story Myra Meets His Family. The following year, Sean Young had a small role in the film “Wall Street” as the wife of Michael Douglas’s character, Gordon Gekko. Her role was originally intended to be significantly larger, but was reduced due to a tumultuous relationship with Producer Oliver Stone.

More recently, in October 2013, Young portrayed the role of Dr. Lucien in “Star Trek: Renegades,” a fan project to create a pilot for a new Star Trek series which is scheduled for release in 2014.

The Mission of the Long Island Film/TV Foundation is to provide support and assistance to the individuals, businesses and organizations that contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of Long Island through film, television and video.

For more information please visit longislandfilmexpo.com

(Long Island, NY) Hamptonites came to celebrate 23rd Annual Summer Gala to benefit the Bay Street Theater’s Educational Program. The event honored Emmy and Tony-nominated actress Kate Burton, Artist April Gornik and Tony-winning lyricist Sheldon Harnick.

Guest enjoyed performances by award-winning actresses Patina Miller & Tovah Feldshuh while dining on Celebrity Hamptons Chef Peter Ambrose’s fine cuisine. The event also featured dancing and live entertainment while others occupied their time on the silent auctions.

Bay Street Theater is a year-round, not-for-profit professional theater and community cultural center which endeavors to innovate, educate, and entertain a diverse community through the practice of the performing arts.

Entertainment Jornalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Director of Marketing and Public Relations Tim Kofahl, Actress Kate Burton and Actor Richard Kind at the 23rd Annual Bay Street Gala

I had the pleasure of interviewing honoree Actress Kate Burton who is a critically acclaimed Broadway, film & TV actress. Her film and theater experience includes: Broadway “Hedda Gabler”, the film “The First Wives Club.” Her television contribution includes “Scandal” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Grimm”. She is the daughter of the late theatrical and Film Star Richard Burton and the late Sybil Christopher, Bay Street’s co-founder with Emma Walton Hamilton & Stephen Hamilton. Ms. Burton is also the stepdaughter of Movie Star Elizabeth Taylor after the long highly publicized affair and consequent marriage of the two stars know in the press as “Burton and Taylor.”

Director of Marketing and Public Relations Tim Kofahl poses for a photo-op with the staff at 23rd Annual Summer Gala for the Bay Street Theater

Also during the event I had the chance to chat with Actor Richard Kind who is now appearing in “TRAVESTIES” at the Bay Street Theater.

The Tom Stoppard classic is directed by Gregory Boyd. Stoppard creates a smashing theatrical extravaganza with the satire of Oscar Wilde crashing headlong into a song-and-dance scenario. There is also a strip-tease, pie-fights, and brilliant wordplay. The story takes place in 1917 and 1974 in Zurich, Switzerland. The play fantasizes how a British consul named Henry Carr (Richard Kind) encounters some of the most famous individuals of the 20th, including James Joyce, Tristan Tzara and Lenin, through an amateur production of The Importance of Being Earnest. Stoppard takes on the role of the artist in society in this exuberant and freewheeling comedy about art and revolution that is truly a breath of Fresh air.

Director of Marketing and Public Relations Tim Kofahl poses for a photo-op with the staff at 23rd Annual Summer Gala for the Bay Street Theater

Richard John Kind is an American actor known best for his roles in the sitcoms “Mad About You” and “Spin City.” Kind was born into a traditional Jewish family in Trenton, New Jersey. He was the son of Alice, a homemaker, and Samuel Kind, a jeweler who formerly owned La Vake’s Jewelry in Princeton, NJ. Together with his younger sister, Joanne, he grew up in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Bay Street Theater is a year-round, not-for-profit professional theater and community cultural center which endeavors to innovate, educate, and entertain a diverse community through the practice of the performing arts. They serve as a social and cultural gathering place, an educational resource, and a home for a community of artists. Bay Street is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization and all donations are tax-deductible according to IRS regulations.

For more information please visit baystreet.org

(Long Island, NY) Animal lovers gathered for a very special champagne tasting at Dodds & Eder in Sag Harbor, New York to benefit Little Shelter Animal Rescue. Guests enjoyed tasting champagne donated by Laurent Perrier.

During our interview, Arlene Leoni, one of the volunteers involved with program management at Little Shelter, explained that there are currently several different programs available such as Little Shelter’s Humane Education Program, which are an important part of their overall mission designed to administer children the skills and knowledge necessary to properly care for animals.

Director of Little Shelter Animal Rescue, David Ceely with Cognac Wellerlane.

Little Shelter Animal Rescue and Adoption Center is a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter nestled on six wooded acres in Huntington, Long Island. Included on the grounds is Sheltervale Pet Cemetery which has become the final resting place for many companion animals for more than eighty years.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews Arlene Leoni and David Ceeley at a Champagne Tasting at Dodds and Eder in Sag Harbor to benefit Little Shelter Adoption Center.

Sales Manager Sabine Latapie from Laurent Perrier Champagne and Cognac Wellerlane poses for a photo-op at Little Shelter Animal Rescue Champagne Tasting with Laurent-Perrier at Dodds and Eder in Sag Harbor on July 12, 2014.

Little Shelter Animal Rescue is located at 33 Warner Rd, Huntington, NY 11743.

All Little Shelter pets receive the highest quality medical services and are spayed /neutered before adoption. Every individual who is interested in adopting is interviewed and thoroughly screened to ensure the best quality homes.

For more information please visit http://littleshelter.com

(Long Island, NY) Arthamptons 2014 was a tantalizing experience of amazing art that just jumped off the canvas while being exhibited at Sculpture Fields of Nova’s Ark in Bridgehampton. Art enthusiasts, press and well known artists gathered to enjoy the 7th annual Arthamptons.

I was lucky to interview World Renowned Artist Kevin Berlin who discussed his latest achievement, creating art from the ballet, Art Director Cheryl Skolow from C-Fine Art as well as President Vassil Lefterov from Red Royalty Gallery who discussed his gallery’s Art sculptures.

Internationally renowned artist Kevin Berlin’s works are found in the collections of Kim Basinger, Luciano Pavarotti, David Letterman, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Dudley and Lisa Anderson, Quincy Jones, Buzz Aldrin, Henry Buhl, and General Motors Corp. Berlin, a Yale University Alumnus, studied at the Slade School of Fine Art and has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Shanghai Daily, The Miami Herald, USA Today, MTV, Tokyo Television, BBC Radio and over 40 television stations across the United States. Berlin was honored by President Reagan at The White House as a Young Arts Presidential Scholar in 1983. Kevin Berlin’s recent major solo exhibitions include shows in Shanghai, Kiev, Chicago, and New York City.

Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane interviews world renowned artist Kevin Berlin, C-Fine Art Director Cheryl Sokolow and Vassil Lefterov – President of Red Royalty Gallery at Arthamptons in Bridgehampton.

For more information please visit www.kevinberlin.com

C Fine Art champions the work of artists who embrace an inventive and unique way of exploring and defining space, revealing a discursive, yet unified, physicality – one that examines our own notions of physical and psychological ‘being’, relationships and perspective with regard to our environment.

For more information please visit c-fineart.com

Red Royalty Gallery (RRG) is the first gallery in New York City to specialize in contemporary Eastern European and Russian art.

Their philosophy is focused on the young collectors – those who will be shaping the future of contemporary art when O’Doherty’s ideology becomes extinct.

For more information please visit redroyaltygallery.com

(Long Island, NY) Hamptonites enjoyed and elegant evening celebrating the 6th Annual Pride in the Hamptons event on July 5, 2014 during the Fourth of July weekend. The charity gala benefited Live Out Loud’s programs that inspire, nurture, and empower LGBTQ youngsters by connecting them to positive role models and affirmative experiences in the LGBTQ community.

Live out Loud’s vision is a world where Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender youth live proud to be who they truly are.

Leo Preziosi, Jr.Founder, Executive Director poses for a photo-op with Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane at Live Out Loud’s 6th Annual Pride in the Hamptons Event, Saturday, July 5th

Live Out Loud provides youth with opportunities to interact with adults who understand the realities of living openly as a member of the LGBTQ community. Live Out Loud assists youngsters to achieve academic success, healthy relationships, rewarding careers, and a wonderful fulfilling life.

Cognac Wellerlane interviews Board Member Bruce T. Sloane Founder, Executive Director Leo Preziosi, Jr. at the 6th Annual Pride in the Hamptons event.

Live Out Loud forges these crucial connections through innovative, hands-on initiatives that include: bringing positive LGBTQ role models into classrooms and schools; bringing LGBTQ youth into workplaces to meet LGBTQ professionals from all walks of life; and providing financial and mentoring support to young scholars and leaders. Live Out Loud provides various programs such as their School Program, The Homecoming Project and Educational Scholarships just to name a few. In their School Program, guest speakers discuss their personal journeys, including coming out stories, career paths as well as their successes and challenges.

Cognac Wellerlane interviews Tom Hernandez, Program Manager and Alex LaCasse Manager of Youth Programming at the 6th Annual Pride in the Hamptons event.

Their Homecoming Project sends successful LGBTQ role models to their hometown high schools to share their stories with the next generation.

Their Educational Scholarships are awarded annually to area high school students who demonstrate a strong capacity to “Live Out Loud.” They are making strides in the LGBT Community, both on and off campus and are active in their school’s GSAs.

Cognac Wellerlane interviews Joey Gonzalez. Chief Operating Officer, one of the top Celebrity trainers in Los Angeles and NYC and Hal Rubenstein who is the fashion director of InStyle magazine and one of its founding editors. Formerly men’s style editor of the New York Times Magazine at the 6th Annual Pride in the Hamptons event.

Their Behind The Scene’s Program Connects youth with professional LGBTQ-affinity groups at major corporations. This very different program allows LGBTQ youngsters to greet and meet with professionals who can help them visualize the support offered to LGBTQ employees.

The Gathering is a community-wide program that draws together LGBTQ youth and their allies from across New York City. At this exciting monthly program, students get together to discuss issues, listen to speakers, plan projects, and have fun.

Hal Rubenstein is the fashion director of InStyle magazine and one of its founding editors poses for a photo-op with Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane at Live Out Loud’s 6th Annual Pride in the Hamptons Event, Saturday, July 5th

Delmar Dualeh is a social work graduate student who was Live Out Loud’s Homecoming Project Intern for the past school year from 2013 through 2014 school year. After a year of assisting LGBTQ community members return to their hometown high schools, he made a decision to return to his former high school to become a role model for the next generation.

“In early September when I started my academic year as the Homecoming Project intern, I remember thinking that the main objective of the Homecoming Project was to get volunteers to return back to their hometown high school and have a discussion with current students – sounds simple. Immediately, I realized the obstacles that I would face when reaching out to certain schools and the lack of willingness to have LGBTQ speakers return to their schools. When working with volunteers who came from diverse backgrounds, I wondered how I, a twenty two year-old graduate student, could help them craft their story when we were generations apart. At moments I felt like a deer in headlights!”

For more information please visit http://www.liveoutloud.info

(Long Island, NY) Guests arrived in 1970’s themed attire for the American Heart Association’s 18th Annual Heart of the Hamptons Ball which took place on the grounds of the Hayground School in Bridgehampton on Saturday, June 28, 2014.

This year’s gala, the Heart of the Hamptons Ball honored Dr. Leonard Girardi, Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Attending Cardiothoracic Surgeon, New York Presbyterian-Weill Cornell Medical Center with the Distinguished Service Award and the Distinguished Leadership award.

Both awards were presented to Samuel L. Stanley Jr., MD, President, Stony Brook University. Heart Heroes Arnold Rosenshein and Cristina Civetta. Both Heart Heroes revealed their individual stories of survival during the Special Appeal that was presented by NY Giant and Super Bowl XLVI Champion Mario Manningham. This year’s Event Co-Chairs were Dr. Karl & Krista Krieger and Rita Cosby, Emmy-Winning TV and Radio Host who served as Master of Ceremonies.

Heart of the Hamptons Guests Sara Herbert Galloway, TV HostRita Cosby, Honoree Arnie Rosenshein, Actor Tony Lo Bianco and Alyse Muldoon pose for a photo-op at the 18th Annual Heart of the Hamptons Ball

The Heart of the Hamptons Ball is a truly elegant charity gala focusing on raising revenue for the mission of the American Heart Association. Supporters, friends and colleagues from Manhattan, Long Island and the Hamptons. Guests enjoyed the beautiful setting of the Hamptons while eating delicious heart healthy foods, drinking delightful local wines and having fun with the music and dancing. The evening featured live music by That 70’s Band, cocktail hour, buffet dinner, as well as a live and silent auction.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Honoree Dr. Leonard Girardi, Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery who emphasized staying away from cigarette smoking, a leading cause of many diseases including stroke, cancer and heart disease.

In my interview with Regional Director Barbara Poliwoda, I inquired “What achievements has the American Heart Association accomplished in the last year.” “In January now it is the law in New York State that all newborns are tested with the Pulse-Ox Test which can detect heart defects in newborns, it can save thousand if not millions throughout the future,” revealed Regional Director Barbara Poliwoda. Barbara also added that this year they had a record breaking attendance. The event was sold out with a whopping seven hundred thirty guests and supporters purchasing tickets.

Rita Cosby, Emmy-Winning TV and Radio Host with Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op at the 18th Annual Heart of the Hamptons Ball in Bridgehampton

There are over twenty states with Pulse-Ox laws, and the American Heart Association continues working to make it the law in all states.

“The sooner critical congenital heart disease is detected, the better the chances of survival and the better the quality of life,” revealed pediatric cardiologist Dr. Harm Velvis of Albany, NY, a volunteer with the American Heart Association.

The Ball took place from 6:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and it was their most successful event ever.

The American Heart Association list of media sponsors include: Hamptons & Gotham Magazine, Hamptons.com and Dan’s Papers, WVVH-TV, Avenue Magazine, Scene Magazine and Long Island Pulse.

For more information please visit http://hamptonsheartball.heart.org or to learn more how you can support the American Heart Association please visit http://www.heart.org

(SOUTHAMPTON, NY) It was an exciting day as guests and Southampton Mayor Mark Epley gathered together to celebrate the grand opening of The Sayre Barn on Saturday, June 14, 2014. After numerous decades of weathering the elements the dilapidated Sayre Barn was in great need of restoration.

Concerned that this historical structure, which is now owned by the Southampton Historical Museum, would continue to deteriorate, museum officials last year agreed to take action and rebuild it.

The Sayre Barn will be utilized for several historical museum events throughout the year and it is opening was a grand success with a photography exhibit by local photographer Ulf Skogsbergh, who has spent the past nine months documenting the Sayre Barn’s restoration.

Photographer Ulf Skogsbergh poses for a photo-op in front of one his photographs that was exhibited at Sayre Barn Grand Reopening Saturday, June 14, 2014

“What is great about Ulf’s project is that he documented all of the mess,” museum director Tom Edmonds revealed during our interview. He continues to state,“So we are going from a mess to a beautiful multipurpose space.”

The Sayre Barn was constructed in 1825 by the Huntting family and purchased by Isaac Sayre a year later. Originally the barn was at the corner of Main Street and Hampton Road and used for livestock. According to the museum, it used to be known as the “billboard” barn because many posters identifying wanted criminals and runaway slaves from the South were posted. The barn was also used for advertising help wanted and upcoming events such as like the circus which was popular in Southampton at the time.

Photographs by Ulf Skogsbergh

After many years The Sayre Barn was bought by the Dimon family and became an antiques store in the 1930’s. The family decided to renovate adding many changes like new windows, a loft and a more suitable staircase.
After World War II the family gave the barn to the Southampton Colonial Society which is now known as the Southampton Historical Society.

The Southampton Historical Society is based at the museum. In 1952. The organization relocated the barn onto its property on Meeting House Lane by rolling it on logs down Main Street. Shortly after the barn became the museum’s dry goods store and a tourist attraction.

In the 1990s a drunk driver crashed into it resulting in the museum making repairs. The reconstruction involved new wood to replace the old. The building was eventually closed to the public in 2008 after severe deterioration.

Museum Director Tom Edmonds and Entertainment Journalist Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op at Sayre Barn Grand Reopening on Saturday, June 14, 2014.

For the renovation project, the historical museum used the services of Strada Baxter Design Build of Amagansett, a construction firm specializing in historic restoration. The construction company deconstructed the barn down to its skeleton and then reconstructed it using the barn’s original woodwork. they could. When necessary, Strada Baxter Design utilized newer materials by melding and combining pieces together.

“They meticulously saved whatever they could,” Mr. Edmonds revealed. “It was a very expensive project and very laborious—they re-created it just he way it originally was, they did the right thing.”

Photographer Ulf Skogsbergh’s photographs will be on display at the museum from June 14 through October 18. These important photographs are approximately 30 pictures ranging from standard size to 20 feet long,

Museum Director Tom Edmonds states “We needed to document this restoration, for it to be a proper preservationist you have to document wear and tear, so this will show what these objects looked like in 2013 so that when we look at things again in 2020, we can see deterioration and changes and determine how to fix it. Ulf took the project and went to the moon with it—he took a museum procedure and turned it into fine art.”

The museum plans to use the new space for charity events, small gatherings, dances, educational classes and community meetings.

More information about the barn and photography exhibit can be found at SouthamptonHistoricalMuseum.org.