Times Square Gossip

  Roman Kaplan With a heavy heart, Russian Samovar has announced their beloved owner Roman Kaplan has passed away at the age of 84. Roman’s daughter Vlada Von Shats and her family wants to thank everyone who has supported her father and the restaurant over the years during this tragic time.  Roman opened the establishment in 1986. Then in 1987 friends, Legendary dancer Mikhail Baryshnikov and Nobel Award Winning poet Joseph Brodsky, joined Roman as his business partners. Russian Samovar is currently managed by Vlada and her two sons Michael and Nicholas. To this day, Russian Samovar attracts the bohemian Americans, Russian emigrants and tourists. This year, the restaurant celebrates its 35th anniversary. History of Russian Samovar: Russian Samovar's history predates the establishment itself. Samovar, formerly Jilly's Canteen and owned by Frank Sinatra's friend Jilly Rizzo, was the go-to hot spot for Sinatra and The Rat Pack. Roman decided to keep the original red banquettes

  Timothy Cardinal Dolan The White Cross Ball of New York City took place at The Metropolitan Club in Manhattan. The Ball welcomed His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan and Ball patron HSH Prince Charles-Henri de Lobkowicz. The Ball raised money for three of the Order of Malta's international humanitarian works: The Holy Family Hospital of Bethlehem Foundation; Malteser International, Order of Malta Worldwide Relief; and The Order of Malta's summer camps for disabled youth. Guests enjoyed drinks, dinner, dancing with music by DJ Ana Boo, as well as portraits by Deanna First. The auction included luxury items and experiences from Mikimoto, Louis XIII, Stubbs & Wootton, and more.  Jessica Markowski The White Cross Ball chairs for the evening were Mercedes de Guardiola and Jason Pelletier. Additional guests include Co-Founder of the White Cross Ball Dr. Michael Espiritu, Co-Founder of the White Cross Ball Niccolò Falez, Lizzie Asher, Francesca Vuillemin, Jessica Markowski, Juli

  Jean Shafiroff Author, TV host, philanthropist, and cover star Jean Shafiroff hosted a holiday and cover party celebrating the release of Elysian Magazine at Jean’s private residence in Southampton, NY. Supporters and friends shared in the celebration of Jean Shafiroff who in the Elysian Magazine cover story discussed the importance of philanthropy, being a leader in the art of giving, her background, and family life. Magazine supporters included Sheri Howell with MedJet, Artist Rhonda Leonard, and real estate developer Brian Leonard.  Jean Shafiroff & Karen Floyd Aaron Paul Jean Shafiroff With Elizabeth Shafiroff   Ann Liguori Notable attendees included: Jean Shafiroff, Karen Floyd, Ruth Sherlock, Cathy Bissell, Martin Shafiroff, Fern Mallis, Cherrie Illidge, Beatrice Sibblies, Aisha Christian, Brenda Simmons, Dan Gasby, Tisha Collette, Beau Hulse, Patricia Hulse, Pop star Aaron Paul, Elizabeth Shafiroff, Hailey Hudson, NYS Assembly Woman Rebecca Seawright, Sheri Howell, Rhonda

  Geraldo Rivera FOX News Channel’s correspondent-at-large Geraldo Rivera recently signed a new multi-year deal to remain with FOX News Media. He will continue serving as a correspondent-at-large contributing most prominently to FOX News Channel and FOX Nation. Rivera, who joined the network in 2001 as a war correspondent, has received more than 170 awards for journalism, including the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award, three national and seven local Emmys, two Columbia-Dupont and two additional Scripps Howard Journalism Awards. His journalism career spans more than 50 years having worked for WABC-TV in New York as well as ABC News, NBC News, CNBC and launching his own syndicated talk show.  In commenting on the announcement, FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott said, “Geraldo has been an important voice on FOX News Channel over the last two decades and we are thrilled to have him continue to be a part of the FOX family.”  Rivera added, “First of all, I’m delighted that FOX News cont

  Southampton Inn This year, festive alternatives to a traditionally prepared Thanksgiving feast at the family table include New York’s hottest dining destinations. Instead of celebrating the holiday and harvest domestically, venture outside the home for unique happenings in lively spaces, exclusive gatherings in chic private rooms and be surrounded by your friends and family. Here are the gourmet dining establishments that have set their tables to welcome your family and friends for Thanksgiving! For a Thanksgiving Staycation & Dinner Southampton Inn This Holiday Season, plan a family trip or gift an idyllic staycation at the Southampton Inn. The Southampton Inn is a year-round, gracious, and relaxing escape from the everyday hustle. Located in the historic Village of Southampton on the East End, the Tudor-style Inn offers 90 elegant guest rooms surrounded by magnificent estates, within walking distance of boutiques, museums, art galleries, and eateries. The Southampton Inn rates

  Maribel Lieberman With Jacques Lieberman  Artist Jacques Lieberman debuted his exhibition “Beyond The Lines And Colors,” with party amongst family and friends. The event and exhibition were held in the studio at 484 Broome Street, New York City, next to the popular MarieBelle Chocolates. “Beyond The Lines And Colors,” is selection of Jacques original artwork from over the last two decades. Guests enjoyed cocktails and MarieBelle chocolates while taking in Jacques’s artwork that was displayed throughout the studio.   Rosemary Ponzo   Notable attendees included: Jacques Lieberman, Maribel Lieberman, Andrea Legnani, Paola Rossi, Vanda Tuberga, Ira Cabrele, Gabriel Vallecillo, Pam Chmiel, Vanda Tuberga, Ira Cabrele, Carolina von Humboldt, Christophe von Hohenberg, Ray Starner, Ilene Wood, Adele Nino, Jeffrey Ray Wine, Sara Johnson Kaplan, Rosemary Ponzo, Eric Ross, Natalie Ross, Gracia Borjas, Nadia Martinez, Ruth Miller, Katlean de Monchy, Nancy Pearson, Maria Elena Christiansen, Maria

  Presentation of the Breakthrough Science Award to Dr. Kevan Shokat for discovering a method to inhibit a common cancer causing mutation, which led to the development of a new FDA medication for lung cancer. The 24th Annual Collaborating for a Cure Gala, one of New York City’s much-anticipated Autumn charity events, made its grand return at downtown’s Cipriani Wall Street. Aptly themed Together Again, the 24th Annual fundraiser supported groundbreaking cancer research funded by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF). The Gala raised more than $4,000,000. Known for its history of top-notch live performances, this year’s gala featured a live concert by Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit with very special guest artist Warren Haynes. CBS News Legend Chris Wragge Notable attendees included: Dr. Samuel Waxman, Marion Waxman, Dr. Kevan Shokat, Deborah Kamali, Mark Fedyk, Erica Feinberg, Matthew Waller, Michael Nierenberg, Elin Nierenberg, Jonny Nierenberg, Dr. Ethan Dmitrovsky, Te

THOMAS J. HENRY Renowned Texas attorney Thomas J. Henry filed a sweeping lawsuit Sunday against rapper Travis Scott as well as Aubrey Drake Graham, Live Nation and NRG Stadium in connection with a tragic event at the Astroworld music festival that left eight people dead, and dozens of others hospitalized. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of one of the victims who reached out to Thomas J. Henry Law following Friday night’s catastrophic event. Thomas J. Henry is actively investigating the failings at Astroworld and is providing immediate consultations to all injured victims as well as to families who had loved ones hurt or killed at the concert. Reports indicate a crowd surged the stage of the Travis Scott concert when rapper Drake made an unannounced appearance on stage. The surge soon resulted in chaos as concert-goers were pushed into one another and the crowd pressed its way forward. Travis Scott and Drake continued to perform even as emergency vehicles arrived and responders attempte

  Jean Shafiroff Social Life Magazine hosted the cover party celebrating author, TV host, philanthropist, and cover star Jean Shafiroff at the Jade Trau jewelry store in Southampton, NY. Supporters and friends shared in the celebration of Jean Shafiroff who in the Social Life cover story discussed the importance of philanthropy and being a leader in the art of giving. Many attendees wore glamorous evening attire including cover star Jean Shafiroff. Several influential women attended the festive occasion. Jean Shafiroff With Justin Mitchell & Ali Mitchell Richard Ballard With Elizabeth Shafiroff Among the many notable guests were: Jean Shafiroff, Ali and Justin Mitchell, NYS Assemblywoman Rebecca Seawright, Dan Gasby, Tisha Collette, Vicki Schneps, Judith Kasen-Windsor, Mitchell Draizin, Martin Shafiroff, Elena Gibbs, Elizabeth Shafiroff, Richard Ballard, Jade Trau designer & store owner Jade Lustig, Laura Arten, Joey Bond, Claire Coss, Blanche Wiesen Cook, Gretchen Maull, Willi

  MVVO AD ART SHOW 2022 MvVO ART, creator of AD ART SHOW, announced the Call for Artists for the 2022 edition of AD ART SHOW. Artists working in advertising, design and related fields are invited to apply to participate in AD ART SHOW 2022. The Call for Artists begins now! Go to www.mvvoart.com for application details and to apply. AD ART SHOW is a unique experience bringing ART directly to people by transforming an advertising platform—monumental digital screens—into a public gallery space for an entire month. The artists of AD ART SHOW have a background in advertising/design and related fields. They are following in the footsteps of famous artists like Andy Warhol, Rene Magritte, and Keith Haring who also had a commercial practice. Historically some artists have made the leap, but the barriers persist; and AD ART SHOW throws the doors open for these talented artists with direct connections to the Art world in a celebration of artistic discovery open to all art lovers. For the 2022 e

  Vinnie Cammarata With Lana Madden Vinnie Cammarata, along with Lana Madden, attended We Belong Here Presents: MEDUZA, a red-carpet costume Halloween party at the Cipriani Wall. Grammy nominated DJ/Producer Meduza headlined the event which featured 4-hour premium open bar, with a full selection of liquor, wine, beer, soft drinks, and juices; and cuisine by the world-renowned Cipriani chefs serving hors d'oeuvres and a 3-course meal. A portion of proceeds benefited the WBH Scholarship Program at Scratch Academy. Vinnie Cammarata is the husband of the late Madeline Cammarata, creator of the iconic Chuck’s Vintage store. Vinnie recently opened Chuck’s new flagship store in Manhattan and hosted several parties in celebration of both Madeline and the iconic business’s new location. About Chuck’s Vintage: Chuck’s Vintage was founded by GSFI former CEO Madeline Cammarata (fka Madeline Harmon), who hailed from an illustrious background in fashion. Her career began as a fashion model, wher

  Leesa Rowland Actress, Philanthropist, and Author Leesa Rowland hosted her “Wild Wild West” party at a private residence in New York City. The light-hearted party was a throwback to the old West. Guests wore their best Cowboy/Cowgirl classic saloon inspired costumes while enjoying cocktails, and dancing to live music. A beautiful sit-down dinner was served by the vegan caterer, City Roots. Fashion Designer Marc Bouwer designed Leesa’s beautiful red dress. Bill Sclight With Nikki Haskell And Cheri Kaufman Michael Shackett With Randi Schatz Leesa recently released her new book, The Charisma Factor: Unlock the Secrets of Magnetic Charm and Personal Influence in Your Life, which is available in bookstores and online. Katlean de Monchy And Michael Zieger Notable attendees include: Leesa Rowland, Larry Wohl, Hank Stampfl, Todd Burnsed, Nicole Noonan, Steven Knobel, Johan Wahlstrom, Dara Sowell, Eva Giannone, Ruth Miller, Nancy Pearson, Michael Shackett, Randi Schatz, Regina Kravitz, Caroli

  Lizzie Asher With Casey Kohlberg & Mercedes de Guardiola   Casey Kohlberg, Lizzie Asher, and the Young Friends of Save Venice hosted Murano Nights, an intimate dinner at Casa Cipriani, the newly opened member's club and celebrity hotspot in New York City’s landmark Battery-Maritime building. The evening was to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Save Venice, which in lieu of the pandemic related postponement of its usual black tie masquerade gala, is hosting over 50 smaller dinners and parties across the world. Murano Nights included 50 of Save Venice’s fashionable younger supporters from art and fashion to film and media for a cocktail hour, ballet performance by dancers from the Brooklyn Ballet, and dinner. Attire was billed as ‘Glittering Cocktail’, as a nod to the Murano Glass which lent its name to the theme, and the glamorous young people about town definitely delivered on the dress code. “It’s been a pretty crazy year and a half,” said host Casey Kohlberg in a sparkling

  Jean Shafiroff Sessa Von Richthofen And Richard Johnson The Viennese Opera Ball hosted their Swing Dinner Dance Gala, “The Golden Age” at a private club in Manhattan. Due to the events of the past year, the gala was scaled down from previous years with limited capacity but was a great return of the extravagant affair. The Viennese Opera Ball is a nonprofit association under Section 501(c)(3) and celebrated under the auspices of the US Austrian Chamber of Commerce. The Gala Chair for the evening was philanthropist Jean Shafiroff, and Denise Rich. Each year, it supports charitable projects that are connected to communities in New York or Vienna. The proceeds of the Swing Dinner Dance benefited the Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research. Jean Shafiroff With Silvia Frieser   Michele Herbert   Eve Brookville The Gala took place with the support of City of Vienna and the Honorary Gala Chair, Governor & Mayor of Vienna The Honorable Michael Ludwig, Consul General of Austria in

   Jean Shafiroff Philanthropist and style icon Jean Shafiroff was spotted at the MET Opera Opening Night Gala of  Terence Blanchard's "Fire Shut Up in My Bones'.   Ms. Shafiroff wore a striking black and beige couture gown  by African American fashion designer B Michael.   The Met Opera's opening night gala of Terence Blanchard's popular production of "Fire Shut Up in My Bones featured an all black cast starring Will Liverman.  The film version of the opera  opened in cinemas around the world on October 23, 2021.