GULF DISASTER HIATUS

The Gulf of Mexico || Now

Forgive me for hitting pause on my blog for a bit. I've been trying to learn as much as possible about the Deep Horizon Rig Disaster in the Gulf of Mexico and it has consumed all of my spare time and attention. You can see much more of what I have collected and presented here, at my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/00Kevin

Soon I will begin to focus my attention on and report about the Benefit Events for those affected by this disaster. There will be many, of course. And there will, no doubt, be many great events that provide a great deal of relief to those in need.

Already, LA and MS fishermen have been deeply affected by the closure of their fisheries. That closure continues and looks to remain in effect for some time. Already, these people need help. That should come from BP, but will mostly come from OUR Federal Government (read: yours and my tax dollars). And that won't be enough to really replace the lost income from fisheries and tourism along the Gulf Coast that is certain even in a best case scenario.

The media has slowed it's coverage on the spill as there is little NEWS to report while the spill stays out to sea. That is better than it washing up on shore but there are still numerous negative ecological and economic impacts even if, by some miracle, the leak is contained quickly and the slick does not come ashore in these extremely sensitive areas.

Not to paint an apocalyptic picture before that manifests itself (and it might) I am remaining positive and looking at what effects are known and what can be done rather than predict the complete devastation of Gulf Coast tourism, fisheries, economies and eco-systems. However, that is a real possibility. As is a devastating effect on the Everglades, The Straights of Florida, The Florida Keys and The Atlantic Beaches of Florida as well.

For now, join me in crossing your fingers and PRAYING! But more than that, PAY ATTENTION and LEARN about what caused this, how it was mismanaged, how all of this could have been prevented AND what lessons we can take from this.

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As always, feel free to send me interesting events for me to consider posting. If you'd like to know what kinds of events I am looking for read the following white papers, posted on my blog: (1) What is an Event (2) Got an Event?This blog DOES NOT feature other kinds of GATHERINGS such as "promotions", "spectacles", "performances", "attractions", "sporting events", "private events", "recurring club nights" or things that are strictly "parties". There are plenty of other places for people to find that information.

12 METER DINNER & SAILOR'S BALL

APRIL 30 || NYC

Photo Credit: Scot Surbeck

One of the greatest things about life in NYC is New York Harbor and The Hudson & East Rivers. And some of the best ways to enjoy these waters are by being a member and/or supporter of Manhattan Sailing Club and/or New York Harbor Sailing Foundation

This week, the two organizations have teamed for their annual fundraiser. The evening sets sail with a the 12 Meter Dinner (7pm - 9ish) where Dennis Connor is the Guest of Honor. And even if you don't know a jib from spinnaker, you must know who he is.

But that's just the beginning. The event adopts the famed "two-party system". After The 12 Meter Dinner comes

The Sailor's Ball (9pm - Late) which adopts the classic "around the world theme" where music and libations vary from room room and floor to floor.

The Downtown Association is the setting for this fine fête which is a "blacktie affair". View the official invitation and purchase tickets and tables here @ https://www.nyharborsailing.com/

Oh, one other thing about MSC. Possibly the coolest of the many member benefits is the access to their floating clubhouse: The Honorable William Wall. It is moored in NY Harbor during the sailing season and a great reason to become a member whether you sail or not. Check it out HERE and and keep your eyes on this blog for a possible event aboard HWW later this summer.

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As always, feel free to send me interesting events for me to consider posting. If you'd like to know what kinds of events I am looking for read the following white papers, posted on my blog: (1) What is an Event (2) Got an Event? This blog DOES NOT feature other kinds of GATHERINGS such as "promotions", "spectacles", "performances", "attractions", "sporting events", "private events", "recurring club nights" or things that are strictly "parties". There are plenty of other places for people to find that information.

KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY - 2010

MAY 1 || NYC

Having moved to NYC from Denver (which has one of, if not THE biggest and best Kentucky Derby Parties in the nation...outside of Churchill Downs, of course) I had been looking for the way to keep the spirit of that great sporting event alive in The Big Apple. I finally found it. And from who else, the guys at Esquire Magazine and Eleven Madison Park!

Going into it's 2nd year, Esquire's event is clearly the most organized and articulated Derby Party in Manhattan. Now, if you don't know how fun Derby Parties are, you can stop reading now. But if you do, find event DETAILS @ FACEBOOK

Features include Chef Daniel Humm's take on Kentucky-themed cuisine, plentiful mint juleps, a cigar lounge by Nat Sherman, live Kentucky Blue Grass Music, and a silent auction with all proceeds donated to New York Horse Rescue.

Tickets are $175 per person which includes entrance to the event, extensive hors d'oeuvres and raw bar, Steak by Robinson's Prime Reserve, classic Derby cocktails, entrance to the Nat Sherman cigar lounge, and gratuity. Tax is not included.

TO PURCHASE TICKETS, PLEASE EMAIL: DERBY@ELEVENMADISONPARK.COM

It is hosted by chef-extraordinaire and "Madison Park Fixture" Danny Meyer, CEO, Union Square Hospitality Group and David Granger, Editor-in-Chief, Esquire

Of course, Derby attire is required. And if you don't know what that means, well, I can't help you there.

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As always, feel free to send me interesting events for me to consider posting. If you'd like to know what kinds of events I am looking for read the following white papers, posted on my blog: (1) What is an Event (2) Got an Event? This blog DOES NOT feature other kinds of GATHERINGS such as "promotions", "spectacles", "performances", "attractions", "sporting events", "private events", "recurring club nights" or things that are strictly "parties". There are plenty of other places for people to find that information.

A Bid To Save The Earth

April & May || Online

With "Earth Week" upon us and the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day just a few days off here comes this very novel idea and a great way for consumers to "show their green". It is also an interesting model for charitable organizations (especially environmental causes) to examine.

A BID TO SAVE THE EARTH offers people three ways to "Bid Green". I mention it not so much because there is an event to attend but because of what it supports and now it's being done; A combination of online and offline live and silent auctions. Really smart and fairly original.

There is, an event to attend, on April 22nd, at Christie's in NYC, but it's so private I have not been able to get much information on it. It's hosted by Susan & David Rockefeller and lists confirmed guests reads like the greatest / greenest / most famous people on earth. Everyone from HM Queen Noor to Kevin Bacon seems to be confirmed. See for yourself HERE.

But, as I said, the interesting thing here is how they have combined all kinds of auctions and items. Here's the package...

Online / Silent Auction: April 8 - May 6.

The items available here are unreal! Works of art, experiences, travel packages, even a 2010 Lexus Hybrid h250...and so much more that, honestly, it's overwhelming.

Live @ Christie's NYC and Online - Thursday, April 22nd

You can bid on the live auction via "Christies Live" starting at 7:30pm on April 22nd.

Proceeds benefit several organizations including NRDC, Central Park Conservancy, Conservation International and one of my favorites, Oceana and is claiming to be carbon neutral. Learn more HERE. These organizations are also asking us all to Bid to do something to help the earth and they made a little video about that. It's kinda cool. Personally, I bid to use public transportation more / as much as possible and to find ways to raise money and awareness for Riverkeeper and Oceana.

+++++++ WHAT'S ON YOUR SOCIAL RADAR?

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As always, feel free to send me interesting events for me to consider posting. If you'd like to know what kinds of events I am looking for read the following white papers, posted on my blog: (1) What is an Event (2) Got an Event?This blog DOES NOT feature other kinds of GATHERING S such as "promotions", "spectacles", "performances", "attractions", "sporting events", "private events", "recurring club nights" or things that are strictly "parties". There are plenty of other places for people to find that information.

charity: cocktails @ CarbonNYC

April 17th || NYC

In NYC it's easy to take water for granted. But that is not the case in much of the world. charity: water was founded to create and fund potable water projects and wells around the world. And they've done great work especially in Haiti recently. Speaking of which, check out this video they made about their efforts there. Wow! If that does not make you feel fortunate, I dont know what will.

So, what better way to show your gratitude for our abundance of clean water in NYC and America then to gather for some cocktails, art and music in a creative, exclusive and exciting space: Carbon NYC - an elite private club in Manhattan. Learn more about Carbon NYC here in a story about it (and other private clubs) in the city.

Tickets are $250 each (a bit pricey but maybe not for NYC standards and definitely in line with Carbon NYC's private club status) and it serves an amazing cause. So, belly up!

The event is presented beautifully here and offers a nice mix of features. Mixologist Alex Ott will be presenting his signature cocktails. charity: water founder Scott Harrison will be speaking and presenting a multi media installation. Tunes will flow from Naga Group and DJ Lee Kalt. Sponsors include Maxim Magazine, Blue Star Jets and Ultimat Vodka.

Tickets & Info: http://www.charitywater.org/carbon/

Can't make it? Can't afford it? You can always donate to charity: water here in a way that is more in line with your budget.

+++++++ WHAT'S ON YOUR SOCIAL RADAR?

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As always, feel free to send me interesting events for me to consider posting. If you'd like to know what kinds of events I am looking for read the following white papers, posted on my blog: (1) What is an Event (2) Got an Event? This blog DOES NOT feature other kinds of GATHERING S such as "promotions", "spectacles", "performances", "attractions", "sporting events", "private events", "recurring club nights" or things that are strictly "parties". There are plenty of other places for people to find that information.

RUN for the PARKS

APRIL 18 || NYC

In Spring it is easy to be reminded about how wonderful NYC's parks are as they bloom, bud and blossom. And what better way is there to celebrate, enjoy and support them than with a 4 mile run in Central Park? New York Road Runners supports Run for the Parks with a legitimate timing (for you competitive types) and all proceeds go to support CITY PARK'S FOUNDATION. And bring the kiddies, their race startes at 9am.

It's a great course which starts in Central Park @ East Drive south of 72nd Street Traverse. COURSE & RACE INFO @ NYRR.ORG

+++++++ WHAT'S ON YOUR SOCIAL RADAR?

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As always, feel free to send me interesting events for me to consider posting. If you'd like to know what kinds of events I am looking for read the following white papers, posted on my blog: (1) What is an Event (2) Got an Event? This blog DOES NOT feature other kinds of GATHERING S such as "promotions", "spectacles", "performances", "attractions", "sporting events", "private events", "recurring club nights" or things that are strictly "parties". There are plenty of other places for people to find that information.

SOFA 2010

April 16 - 19 || NYC

Seldom do you see such a well organized and presented event. SOFA is one of those events with features upon features and a great web site to present it all. This is the kind of event I love to recommend and will probably attend on Friday.

http://www.sofaexpo.com/nyo/

From the home page of their web site I can see this is a winner. Newbie event producers and fundraisers take note, this is how it's done:

- Tickets are really reasonable with GA starting at only $25.

- 56 galleries from 12 nations represented.

- There is a lecture series brilliantly branded SALON SOFA.

- Slick rotating gif slide show of some really cool pieces (people are "visiual beings'. Photos excite them)

- The heads up on the Opening Night preview event to benefit MAD (Museum of Art & Design http://www.madmuseum.org/

).

- There are at least 2 other SOFA events: Santa Fe in July and Chicago in November

That's a fair amount of good (and engaging) info for a home page. I was drawn in. And that is the idea.

Some details on the Opening Night Reception on Thursday, April 15, an event within the event:

http://www.sofaexpo.com/NY/2010/onp.htm

$100 is reasonable and it includes a cocktail reception featuring "A taste of New York" honoring MAD Trustee Sandy Grotta will be held in the Tiffany Room of The Park Avenue Armory, which, is evidently a space to behold. So that alone might be worth $100. Patrons will be able to partake in a "first look" walking tour of SOFA with MAD Director Holly Hotchner and Curator of Jewelry, Ursula Neuman. NOT: That's early @ 12:30pm. This all benefits

Digging a bit deeper into the site I discovered another "event within the event" (I love this kind of thing)

It is a celebration of glass called Fête de Verre on Friday, the 16th at Capitale. DETAILS:

http://www.urbanglass.org/fete

It looks to be a benefit for Urban Glass where some 350 artists share studio space. I bet they put out some nice work. Can't make it? There is a great online auction for you to bid and support these artists: http://urbanglass.org/auction/auction.php?year=2010

+++++++ WHAT'S ON YOUR SOCIAL RADAR?

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As always, feel free to send me interesting events for me to consider posting. If you'd like to know what kinds of events I am looking for read the following white papers, posted on my blog: (1) What is an Event (2) Got an Event? This blog DOES NOT feature other kinds of gatherings such as "promotions", "spectacles", "performances", "attractions", "sporting events", "private events", "recurring club nights" or things that are strictly "parties".