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The 2016 UMBRIA Jazz Festival: Big Name Performers, what to Expect, and where to Stay

Having heard from a friend how spectacular Umbria was, I was eager to find out what specifically made it an unforgettable destination– UMBRIA Jazz Festival.   For 10 days and nights,  (July 8th-17th)  the sweet sound of jazz music can be heard throughout the medieval city of Perugia and the hills of Umbria come alive with the sound of music. 

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Since 1973, the festival has been a huge attraction every summer and hosts some of the most amazing Jazz musicians around. Artists such as Miles Davis, B.B King, and Elton John have performed.  This year, from July 8-17, the festival’s lineup will be just as amazing. The majority of performances taking place under the stars at the open-air Arena Santa Giuliana, while others happen within the gilded walls of Teatro Morlacchi, 

Who’s Playing at the 2016 Umbria Jazz Festival?
In past years, the Umbria Jazz Festival has attracted the likes of musical legends such as Miles Davis, B.B. King, Dizzy Gillespie, and even Elton John. The 2016 festival is no different — if you’re planning on traveling to Umbria this summer, prepare yourself for this impressive lineup:

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July 8: Massimo Ranieri “Malia” with Enrico Rava, Stefano Di Battista, Rita Marcotulli,
Ettore Fioravanti, and Stefano Bagnoli (Buy tickets)
July 9: Diana Krall and Ola Onabule (Buy tickets)
July 10: Mika and Ezio Bosso (Buy tickets)
July 11: Buddy Guy and Ruthie Foster (Buy tickets)
July 12: John Scofield, Brad Mehldau, and Mark Guiliana (Buy tickets)
July 13: Enrico Rava New Quartet featuring Stefano Di Battista (Buy tickets)
July 14: Branford Marsalis Quartet with special guests Kurt Elling and Melody Gardot (Buy tickets)
July 15: George Clinton Parliament Funkadelic and Cory Henry & The Apostles (Buy tickets)

July 16: Steps Ahead Reunion and Marcus Miller “Afrodeezia” Tour (Buy tickets)

July 17: Chick Corea 75th Birthday Celebration, Homage to Heroes, and Stefano Bollani “Napoli Trip” (Buy tickets)

The program and number of participating artists may change as it gets closer to the festival. There are many, many more performances over the course of the ten days – smaller, free events all throughout town – but the artists listed above perform in the evening hours and are considered to be the main event of each day.

WHERE TO STAY..

vacation-rental-photo_Italy_HII-IPC_Villa-I-Palazzi-Casale-Torre_ipcpol02_tabletPerugia  can get very busy during the Umbria Jazz Festival and hotels, inns and villas can book up quickly.  Personally I appreciate the privilege of venturing into the historic city centers for exceptional jazz, then being able to retreat to the countryside to soak up the peace and beauty of Umbria.

Whether I’m traveling to the Caribbean or Europe, I like the space and privacy that a private villa offers. My friends at WIMCO Villas represent dozens of private villas with pools in Umbria and Tuscany – contact them at 1-800-449-1553 to ask for suggestions. They’ll set up your flights, rental cars and even private chefs and vineyard tours.

On my bucket list is a 9 bedroom villa I would like to fill with 8 friends/couples!  Only 6 miles from Perugia and less than 14 from one of my favorite historical towns,  and birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi, the villa offers horseback riding, golfing, restaurants, food shops, and even hot air balloon ride  nearby.

I continue to count on my favorite concierge — WIMCO for my vacation needs– Contact Stiles (owner/principal of WIMCO) directly for any inquiries at Stiles@wimco.com, Barbara Pierce Bpierce@wimco.com  or call 401 236 9024

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The Case of the Disappearing Felines

Several former Palm Beachers recently returned to the Island and inquired as to what happened to all of the stray cats that used to gather outside restaurants begging for scraps and keep residents awake at night with their mating rituals.

While greatly reduced in numbers, rest assured that Palm Beach’s furriest residents are still on the island.  Thanks to the efforts of Palm Beach Island Cats, the town’s cats are less of a nuisance and more of a plus.  Since humane management began in 2010 by Palm Beach Island Cats, the island’s stray cat population has been significantly reduced from over 750 to less than 550.  The cats which help shrink the rodent population on the island, live in well-managed colonies where they are fed, watered, and cared for by Palm Beach Island Cats.

The program which currently receives no government funding, and operates with a staff of volunteers has been held up as an example to other municipalities across the country for effective and humane treatment of homeless cats who are in need of compassionate care. Through no fault of their own, these cats have been abandoned and left to fend for themselves which most often leads to more cats. Spring is typically Kitten Season, however due to the ongoing neutering efforts by Palm Beach Island Cats, each year this has been less impactful in Palm Beach. (Cats can reproduce when they are as young as 4 to 6 months old.)

Seventy percent of cats entering shelters are killed, and that number jumps to nearly 100% of feral cats and kittens. That’s why the Trap/Neuter/Release efforts of Palm Beach Island Cats is effective as well as humane.

Advocates of responsible pet ownership, Palm Beach Island Cats provides food, sterilization, vaccines and other medical care to needy cats. Your support of this 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, is tax deductible.

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Donations may be mailed to:

Palm Beach Island Cats, Inc.
P.O. Box 173
Palm Beach, FL 33480
561-512-4884
Or click here

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STEAK SUNDAYS at MEAT MARKET are coming back!!

Back by popular demand, June 5, 2016 will signal the return of Meat Market’s wildly popular Signature Steak Sunday. Every Sunday this summer, you  can enjoy a selection of Signature Steaks at half price. Options include 16 ounce Chicago Prime New York (full or half); 12 ounce filet mignon (full or half); 16 ounce Prime Ribeye; the Meat Market steak – 16 ounce Prime Picanha with Habanero Chimichurri (full or half); or the Creative Steak of the Day.

My favorite is the prime rib-eye topped with either seared foie-gras or roasted prime bone marrow….. but of course you can choose from other succulent additions such as a 6 ounce lobster tail; Oscar-style with blue crab and béarnaise; and black truffle butter. Signature Steak Sunday will be offered to guests in the dining room, as well as those sitting at the bar and lounge.  Not to be combined with any other offers and not available for to-go orders.

Meat Market, located at 191 Bradley Place in Palm Beach, serves dinner nightly. For reservations, please call (561) 354-9800. For more information, visit www.meatmarket.net.

 

Facebook:                  https://www.facebook.com/MeatMarketPalmBeach

Twitter:                      https://twitter.com/MeatMarketPB

Instagram:                 http://instagram.com/MeatMarketPalmBeach

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Isabel Saad Sell Out launch
at Center for Creative Education

Sold out exhibition benefits Center for Creative Education

Isabel Saad’s recent show of her engaging new photographs, curated by Bruce Helander opened on May 6th at  The Gallery at Center for Creative Education located in historic Northwood, West Palm Beach. Forty percent of the proceeds of sales benefited Center for Creative Education. 

The exhibition was completely sold out by the end of Ms. Saad’s  well-attended opening reception, as collectors snapped up every one of the photographic works from her first solo show.

“Pieces being exhibited in what has been the most robust collection of student works The Gallery at Center for Creative Education has exhibited to-date.  With varying levels of artistic merit, the artworks and opening reception were well received by art aficionados and casual collectors alike with the stamp of approval being the sold out works by Isabel Saad.”  Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla, Gallery Manager, The Gallery at Center for Creative Education

Isabel Saad, who currently is a photography and English literature major at the prestigious New School of the Parsons School of Design in New York City, has had a strong interest in photography for a number of years. This interest developed into a recognized style, quite often influenced by her discoveries and documentation of urban street activities, from department store windows to pedestrians passing provocative billboards and advertisements. Some of her works concentrate on self-portraiture and other figurative representations, which can elicit a mysterious and pensive depiction.

In some examples, Ms. Saad can appropriate an historical or theatrical connection, such as her Red Shoes composition that seems to connect with Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. In others, the photographer examines the unusual aesthetics of emptiness, such as an empty classroom where vacant tables and chairs take advantage of shadows and natural light, set up an unexpected minimal composition that is surprising and memorable.

Isabel Saad, who at a young age has lived in and traveled across two continents, has developed an interest not only in photography but in film making, drawing and design, creative writing and acting. She has taken courses at Phillips Andover Academy, Cambridge University, New York Film Academy, Bard College at Simon’s Rock and the Boca Raton Museum of Art School, among others.

In addition to her exhibit, The Gallery at CCE is showing photographs of Dreyfoos School students who major in photography and the work of Lot23 students.

The exhibition is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00am – 5:00pm and continues through May 27th.

The Center for Creative Education (CCE) is located at 425 24th Street, West Palm Beach, FL 33401.

For additional information please contact, Jonathon Ortiz-Smykla, Gallery Manager, The Gallery at Center for Creative Education at (561) 805-9927 or jonathono@cceflorida.org.

 

 

 

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Everyone loves SEQUIN

 

On a recent visit, our obsession was with the long-beaded fresh water pearl necklaces for a layered Chanel-like look that never goes out of style. Especially when laytered wit hthe necklace of the moment– The Tassel Pendant!

Plus it was impossible not to pick out a few of the Marrakesh enamel bracelets which come in every color imaginable, especially those iconic Palm Beach colors. Think Lilly!

The Grecian Island earrings were also irresistible! They feature the intricate hand-sculpted 22K gold dipped metal frames with semi-precious stones such as turquoise, purple and deep blue. The perfect accessory for those cool crisp summer outfits.

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Because SEQUIN has become a destination for locals and visitors alike, it’s a happy place that makes you want to come back again and again! No matter where your Summer Travels take you, before you pack your bags, make sure you visit Sequin.

Locations in Palm Beach:  South County Road and Worth Avenue

For those of you who prefer to shop from the convenience of your home, check out their terrific online store!

 

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St. Tropez ‘Insider’ Experience WIMCO-Style

Before Brigitte Bardot transformed this coastal town on the French Riviera into a glamorous 24/7 destination, it was a simple, unassuming fishing village. The weaving of past and present in St. Tropez culture make it a uniquely charming, and relaxing European getaway where Shopping is a favorite past-time.  The WIMCO team and its comprehensive Vendôme guide  allows you to experience St. Tropez as an ‘insider,’ making it all the more enjoyable.   The Vendôme Guide series is a collection of beautiful destination-specific guidebooks with detailed insider information, with photos of each villa they represent, and recommendations on what to do and see in each destination.  (I’ve included the St. Barth’s guide in gift bags at the most exclusive Palm Beach events)

 

For the elite jetsetter crowd, St. Tropez is a destination you can’t help visit again and again. Its sexy image is well-deserved — whether you are relaxing at a beach club, shopping in glamorous boutiques, or clinking glasses on a yacht.

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St. Tropez’s Club 55

While St. Tropez is a 24/7 party, everyone knows there’s something a little magical that happens when the sun goes down. Once you find yourself partying into the early morning hours with celebrities like Beyonce, Jay-Z, and Leonardo DiCaprio, you’ll wonder how nightlife in the U.S. is worthy of your time ever again.

What to Do in St. Tropez: Shopping, Shopping, Shopping

As you stroll along the cobblestone streets of St. Tropez, you will encounter some familiar favorites (bonjour, Louis Vuitton!) and many one-of-a-kind boutiques you may have never heard of. Stop in as many shops as you can, but these areas, shops, and storefronts should go to the top of your list:

The Golden Triangle

The Golden Triangle is not a store — it’s the nickname for a chic area of St. Tropez where visitors can find brands like Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, and Fendi. Within the triangle formed by Places des Lices, Rue Gambetta, and Rue Allard, the classic favorites are all there.

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St. Tropez is the type of destination that you will want to return to year after year, especially in the summertime. There is a wonderful energy as the town gets busy and you will find there’s always something to do: whether you enjoy indulging in Tarte Tropéziennes, shopping until your sandal straps give way, or staying up to enjoy one of the most celebrated nightlife scenes in Europe.

 

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Let your free spirit experience the free-spirited side of the sunny French Riviera.

We love St. Tropez, with its narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets fronted by designer boutiques, art galleries, fashionable bistros and cafes.  Summer is peak season in St. Tropez, which means if you are looking for the best nightlife options, now is the time to book your flights and make reservations in a private villa, or hotel.  Grab your friends, pack your most fashionable pieces, and prepare for the summer of your life in the French Riviera.  Contact WICO at 800-449-1553, and have their villa specialists plan the perfect trip for you.  or visit their website to browse villa and hotel options

 

Why choose WIMCO when planning your vacation?

  • Over 30 years of experience in villa vacation planning and boutique hotel reservations
  • One-stop service from rental cars to flights, from in-home spa service to cooking help, from baby-sitters to stocking your villa with groceries daily, WIMCO does it all for you.
  • Voted one of the top 5 luxury villa rental specialists in the world by Fortune Magazine
  • Voted Forbes “Best of the Web”

Click here to start planning your dream vacation

 

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Meat Market Palm Beach– selectively available for private luncheons

In just two years since opening in Palm Beach, Meat Market has earned the title “Best Restaurant in PB County” by the Palm Beach Post and ‘Best Steakhouse in South Florida” by SouthFlorida.com.

Whether it’s to meet a friend during Happy Hour, grab a bite at the bar or treat out of town guests to an always exceptional experience in the dining room, it is always a pleasure to see the familiar faces of repeat customers!  Andy Dugard, Manager of Meat Market Palm Beach, makes it his job to greet and chat with his patrons.  Together with his team, they have clearly cultivated a year round loyal following among discerning diners demanding only the finest in food, service and setting. The bustling bar scene has also become a favorite among those preferring to dine within a more vibrant atmosphere.

And now, there is a NEW WAY for Insiders to enjoy Meat Market at Lunch.  Meat Market has long fielded requests for private events, including corporate power lunches, celebrity speaker lunches and private celebrations.  As a result, Meat Market will now be offering prix-fixe lunch menus for private groups of 50 or more.  Insiders recognize that Meat Market is the perfect spot for hosting ‘private’ fashion luncheons as well as charitable day time events.

Andy will personally ensure private lunch events are flawless from tailoring the menu, to assisting with table decor.

To find out more, you can either email me or  email Andy or call Andy at  407 340 5136

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A Fairy Special Mother’s Day at Eau Spa

This Mother’s Day, spoil your mother or better yet, share the experience and double the magic!   Eau Spa’s whimsical setting is a perfect getaway to ‘Pause, Play and Perfect’.  Eau Spa is offering 6 different Mother’s Day programs, varying from Aromatherapy Yoga with Mom to a complete day of pampering with ‘Mother’s Day in Spa Wonderland‘.

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Aromatherapy Yoga With Mom

May 8, 2016 – 4:30 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. – $35 with spa access

A mother’s love is like no other. Enjoy a nurturing and relaxing 90-minute Yoga class infused with essential oils that are designed to deepen the connection between body, breath, and mind. Awaken your inner Shakti and cultivate a feeling of well-being as you move through heart opening poses alongside your number one since day one. Nothing says “thank you mom” like EAUmmming together. 90 minute Yoga Class $35

BOGO Duet Yoga or Personal Training for the both of you!

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Mom taught you to eat your vegetables and take care of your health. Treat mom, or any lovely motherly figure with the gift of health & healing in a private Fitness or Yoga class. Foster connection and laughter while strengthening your bond with dynamic duEAU partner exercises and postures.   60 minute Private Fitness or Yoga Class Duet $125

 Make-It-Up-To-Mom Hammam

You have worried her since the day you were born, and now is your chance to win her forgiveness with this decadent treatment. With roots in the ancient Middle East, this purifying, ancient ritual detoxifies the body as she is submerged into a heated float bed while slathered and wrapped in a rhassoul clay cocoon.  The body is then cooled with an orange quince mist, and finished with a warm carda”mom” amber oil hand tangerine fig butter crème massage. She will not remember your name, much less the trouble you have caused her after this divine treatment.  90 Minutes for $295

The Queen Mother

Her highness would expect nothing less.  This perfect journey includes a hand drawn bath of exotic  florals, oriental teas, and precious oils combined with a hand washing and polishing of the skin, a delicate dry buff, and a warm butter and silk massage. 90 Minutes for $299

A Facial from Her Favorite Child

We already know that she loves you best, and she will also love ridding her skin of hyperpigmentation, photoaging, pore congestion or fine lines and wrinkles (that your siblings caused her) with a choice of either one of our Micropeel Solutions or a Pigment Balancing Peel. This treatment includes crystal-free microdermabrasion, a hyaluronic gel infusion, sculpting microcurrent, collagen stimulating LED, and includes a take-home, month supply of Alpha Beta Peels. Stay in first place. 90 Minutes for $420 

Mother’s Day in Spa Wonderland

The perfect gift for your favorite lady, this day includes a 30 Minute Body Scrub, 60 Minute Self-Centered Massage, 60 Minute Essence Facial, Classic Manicure and Pedicure followed by a hair blow out. $590 and includes complimentary champagne and 10% off any retail purchases. Optional upgrades not included in the price.

For inquiries please call 561.540.4960 or email concierge@eauspa.com

Eau Spa at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

 

 

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Le Rosey celebrates its 4th Annual Palm Beach Reunion

Missing:  Alvaro Gonzalez and Allison Reed (arrived after photographer left)

Palm Beach may be not be home to as many Roséens as Miami is, but after 4 years, the yearly reunion has become a destination!   This year, not only did we have our ‘ongoing local and neighboring loyals,’ We were also honored with anciens who flew in specifically for the event:  Alvaro Gonzalez who flew from Tampa and drove another hour to join us: Peter Bender who flew in from South America and of course nothing would keep one of our most devoted anciens, Ned Brown and his lovely bride Cristina from flying in to support us…  Now that’s loyalty!!

Other attending Rosey anciens included: Hashem Khosrovani, Bob Reynolds, Maria and Ian Slavin, Victoria de Rouvre-Selcuk, Allison Reed, James Grey, Fernando Marques, Mark McAlpin, Robert Riva, Warren Robbins and Molly Dalton Robbins, Henrik Vanderlip and Stoddard Vandersteel. 

A few who had to cancel last minute and were dearly missed:  Mitra Ashraf, Rene Silvin, Karine Aubery, Charles Hudson and Andrew Sullivan, Bill Solloway, Margie Allinson, Virginia Brilliant and Michelle Holcomb-Hoyos and Richard Trutanic.

Please click here to see pictures of the dinner at Bice Palm Beach

 

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The Easter Bunny makes a Special Hop to Worth Avenue’s Caviar Bar

When Mary Mahoney renovated her store this summer, she created a special area for her clients’ favorite caviar.  Black River Caviar Bar will be offering a wide variety of Palm Beachers’ favorite eggs– Black River Russian Oscietra and Siberian Caviar.   The latest harvest of this fine caviar will be delivered just in time for the Easter Holidays.  Caviar connoisseurs will be able to select from various shades of both Russian Oscietra and Siberian Caviar, from jet black to the rare golden eggs.  “Our clients have been waiting for this special delivery with anticipation.  we’re thrilled to have it in time for Easter, ” says Mary.

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Black River Caviar, a favorite among Palm Beach residents and exclusive purveyor to Seabourn Cruise Lines, is served at some of the finest restaurants across the Globe.  Harvested in the pristine waters of the Rio Negro with excellent properties for sturgeon breeding, the environment mimics the real flow of a river in a completely natural area, free of contaminants and pollution.  To inquire about the various types and price list,  call Mary Mahoney at 561 655 8288

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