Tag: Kenneth Fishel

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: A Night of Glamour: The French Heritage Society’s Art Deco Ball

An elegant celebration of design, culture, and French artistry will unfold in New York City this November.

The French Heritage Society will host its annual Art Deco Ball on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at The Metropolitan Club on East 60th Street. This highly anticipated black-tie evening will honor the storied French fashion house Lanvin and its Artistic Director, Peter Copping, recognizing their continued influence on both couture and cultural preservation. The event will include cocktails at seven o’clock, followed by dinner and dancing at eight, with music provided by the Alex Donner Orchestra and an after party extending the night’s festivities.

Under the gracious patronage of His Excellency Laurent Bili, Ambassador of France to the United States, His Excellency Jérôme Bonnafont, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of France to the United Nations, Mr. Cédric Fouriscot, Consul General of France in New York, and Mr. Mohamed Bouabdallah, Cultural Counselor of the French Embassy in the United States, the evening reflects a seamless bond between French diplomacy and cultural heritage.

The distinguished Gala Chairmen—Liz McDermott Barnes, Jean Shafiroff, CeCe Black, and Ann Van Ness—will oversee an event that brings together leaders from design, philanthropy, and international society. The Honorary Chairmen include Geoffrey N. Bradfield, Stewart F. Lane and Bonnie Comley, Timothy Corrigan, Kazie Metzger Harvey, and Odile de Schiétère-Longchamp, each known for their longstanding commitment to heritage and the arts.

Dinner Chairmen Ben Barnes, Lanvin, Lee Black, Martin Shafiroff, Jennifer Farrell, Bill Van Ness, Lady Maria Fishel and Kenneth Fishel, and Rebecca and Stephen Whyte will guide the evening’s elegant meal and program. Co-Chairmen Brenda and Jim Howard, Eily Kunze, Monica and Scott Laurans, Allen Maines, Denise Littlefield Sobel, Richard and Donna Soloway, Will Steele and Chris Drake, Barbara Tober, and Jennifer C. Schünemann ensure that the evening’s celebration reflects both artistic precision and social warmth.

Among the Vice Chairmen are Erin and Christophe Berthoux, Sharon Bush and Bob Murray, Yann Coatalem and James G. Brooks, Francine Crocker and Dirk Adams, Randolph Fishburn and Andrew Sands, Katherine and Daniel Gordon, Susan Gutfreund, Rosann Gutman, Emily Kunze, John C. Harvey, Marifé Hernández and Joel Bell, Frédéric de Joybert, Mrs. Helen K. King, Michael Kovner and Jean Doyen de Montaillou, Elizabeth F. Stribling and Guy N. Robinson, Lynn and Pascal Franchot Tone, and Jean and Donald Wolf. Their presence represents a network of patrons who have devoted decades to the society’s mission of preserving the architectural and cultural treasures of France.

The Young Patron Chairmen, a new generation of enthusiasts, include Pauline Argenson, Elena Ayot, Dr. Bettina Bennett, Melanie Boude, Gert Dekegel, Galina Fendikevich, Dr. Claudine Holt, Luis de Lencquesaing, Davy Malinur, Stephanie Mattera, Johnsonie Mazuryk, Christina Bott Murphy, Michael Gregson Reinert-Sessions and Jonathan Reinert-Sessions, Derin Sezercan, Victoria Sherman, Lauren Summa, Flore-Yanha Thervil, Ilona Velez, Baroness Allison von Arnim, and Nina Yacavino. Together they embody the continuity of cultural stewardship through a younger lens.

The Committee’s members bring together individuals from both sides of the Atlantic, including His Highness Jaime Eduardo de Borbon, Baroness Lulu Sezercan Dalkanat, Lynette Dallas, James Demmert, Gigi Fisdeil, Anne H. Fitzpatrick, Michelle Fox, Penny Grant, MD, David M. Gray, Lou Rena Hammond, Kenneth Hausman and Malathi Srinivasan, Lucia Hwong Gordon, and Hon. Brenda LaG. Johnson. Additional committee members include Margo Morton Langenberg, Isabelle de Laroullière, Valerie A. Lettan, Maribel Lieberman, Kamie Lightburn, Marcy Maguire, Vicky McLoughlin, Maureen Nash, Frederick X. Schwenker, Arthur and Roberta Sandeman Houghton, Mark A. Walter, and Jacqueline Wilson.

Rosann Gutman and Ann Van Ness will serve as New York Chapter Chairs, with George P. Sape as Wine Consultant, bringing refinement and expertise to the evening’s table.

Since its founding, the French Heritage Society has been devoted to preserving and promoting French architectural and cultural heritage in both France and the United States. Over the past forty-three years, the organization has awarded more than seven hundred restoration and cultural grants, ensuring that historic properties endure for future generations. Nearly six hundred university students have crossed the Atlantic under its support to complete internships at esteemed institutions, linking two nations through education, history, and art. With eleven active chapters—ten in the United States and one in Paris—the society remains a vital bridge between continents and cultures.

For this November’s Art Deco Ball, the French Heritage Society invites guests to step into a world of artistry, elegance, and purpose. The Metropolitan Club’s storied rooms will provide a fitting backdrop for an evening defined by gratitude and preservation, honoring the legacy of Jeanne Lanvin and the creative vision of Peter Copping while celebrating the living bond between France and America.

Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe: Paws & Purpose: A Glamorous Night of Compassion at Southampton Social Club

NYC Second Chance Rescue Illuminates the Hamptons with Heart, Style, and Hope

Southampton shimmered under the stars as the Paws & Purpose midsummer celebration swept through the iconic Southampton Social Club, transforming it into a haven of heartfelt glamour and philanthropic spirit. Hosted by NYC Second Chance Rescue, this unforgettable gathering was not just a summer soirée—it was a luminous testament to the power of second chances, where elegance met empathy and cocktails were served with a cause.

Set amid the lush garden oasis of Southampton’s most fashionable venue, the evening drew a constellation of animal advocates, tastemakers, socialites, and philanthropists, all united in their passion for saving lives. With handcrafted drinks flowing—including a cheeky splash of BIATCH® Tequila—and conversations buzzing about rescue stories and lives transformed, guests were reminded why this organization has become a beacon of hope for animals in crisis.

Among the radiant supporters in attendance were Alexandra Daddario, Jennifer Brooks, Lisa Blanco, Lisa Rose, Kate McEntee, Kingsley Crawford, Leesa Rowland, and Marc Loeb, along with prominent figures like Maria and Kenneth Fishel, Ian Duke, Missy Hargraves, “Aunt” Sue Hrib, Pious and Enzo Weinberg, and many more. These compassionate changemakers lit up the night with their energy and their commitment to NYC Second Chance Rescue’s life-saving mission.

Celebrity Spotlight: Leesa Rowland Brings Star Power and Heart to Paws & Purpose

Among the dazzling constellation of compassionate guests at Paws & Purpose, one radiant presence stood out—Leesa Rowland, celebrated actress, author, and philanthropist, whose deep love for animals shone as brightly as her charisma.

A long-time advocate for animal rights and rescue initiatives, Leesa has consistently used her platform to champion the voiceless, making her an especially poignant guest at the NYC Second Chance Rescue’s Southampton celebration. Known for her elegant charm and spiritual approach to life, Leesa brought a heartfelt energy to the evening, engaging warmly with supporters, rescue team members, and fellow animal lovers alike.

Her presence didn’t just elevate the guest list—it enlightened the atmosphere. Whether she was sharing stories about her own rescued pets or expressing admiration for the organization’s tireless work, Leesa radiated sincerity and compassion, embodying the very spirit of the event.

As one guest put it, “When Leesa walked in, the entire garden lit up—she’s a beacon of beauty and kindness. You could feel her love for animals in every word she spoke.”

With champions like Leesa Rowland on board, NYC Second Chance Rescue continues to gain momentum, inspiring others to take action, show empathy, and believe in the power of second chances.

Because for Leesa, rescuing an animal isn’t just an act of kindness—it’s a calling. And at Paws & Purpose, her love and light were truly unforgettable.

The event was a stylish prelude to the upcoming August 8th Hamptons Gala, which is poised to be one of the most meaningful highlights of the East End’s summer season. As stories of medical miracles and four-legged survivors floated through the night air, one thing became clear: this was more than a party—it was a movement.

With over 16,000 lives saved since its founding in 2009, NYC Second Chance Rescue has become a powerhouse of hope, focusing on large-breed dogs and animals requiring critical care—those often overlooked and tragically marked for euthanasia. Thanks to generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and tireless leadership, these animals are not only given medical attention and love but also a future.

And that future was on full display in Southampton.

From the floral backdrops to the runway-ready attendees, from the clinking of glasses to the heartfelt conversations, every detail of the evening radiated with purpose. Guests weren’t just celebrating summer—they were celebrating second chances, new beginnings, and a mission that has never felt more vital.

With spirits high and hearts wide open, all eyes now turn to the August 8th Gala, where passion, philanthropy, and purpose will once again take center stage.

Because every paw deserves a purpose—and every animal a chance to shine.