Cognac's Corner claims no credit for any images featured on this site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyright to it's respectful owners. Cognac's Corner is in no way responsible for or has control of the content of any external web site links. Information on this site may contain errors or inaccuracies; the site's proprietors do not make warranty as to the correctness or reliability of the site's content. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on this site, please contact us via e-mail and they will be promptly removed.
Cognac interviews Paris Hilton at the FiFi Awards – Video by Mauro Botero
Cognac interviews Paris Hilton at the FiFi Awards - Photo by Alison Blackman
Cognac interviews Rochelle Bloom President of the Fragrance Foundation – Photo by Alison Blackman
Cognac interviews Tova and Ernest Borgnine
Cognac interviews Rick Hilton – Photo by Alison Blackman
The glamorous “FiFi” Ceremonies are held each year in New York City and are attended by over 1,000 members of the international fragrance community. The awards are presented by celebrities from the world of fashion, theater, film and TV.
The Fragrance Foundation was established in 1949 by six industry leaders affiliated with Elizabeth Arden, Coty, Guerlain, Helena Rubenstein, Chanel and Parfums Weil, to develop educational programs about the importance and pleasures of fragrance for the American public. Today, America is the largest fragrance market in the world and The Fragrance Foundation has become an international source for historic, cultural, scientific and industry related reference materials.
Actress Kate Walsh and TV Host Cognac Wellerlane pose for a Photo Op at The FiFi Awards- Photo by Mauro Botero
Lisa Gottsegen and Dustin Hoffman at the FiFi Awards – Photo by Mauro Botero
Givaudan Executives pose for a photo-op with TV Host Cognac Wellerlane at the Fifi Awards – Photo by Mauro Botero
Givaudan Executive and Master Perfumer (The Nose) Claude Dir poses for a photo-op with TV Host Cognac Wellerlane – Photo by Mauro Botero
Debra Kernan and Diane Terman President of Diane Terman Public Relations pose for a photo-op at the Fifi Awards- Photography by Mauro Botero
Currently, the Foundation’s International Membership includes: manufacturers, suppliers, media, advertising and public relations agencies as well as designers, packagers and retailers. The Foundation maintains one of the most extensive print and video fragrance libraries in the world. It publishes educational and sales training materials. The Foundation produces videos and consumer publications and holds seminars and symposia for its members as well as for the international fragrance industry.
Cognac’s chats with the Stars at the FiFi Awards – Video by Mauro Botero
Cognac chats with Alison Blackman from advicesisters.net
Shimmering stars of the Fragrance Industry and Hollywood included Paris Hilon, Rick Hilton, Kathy Hilton, Queen Latifah, Marc Jacobs, Mary J. Blige, Tova, Ernest Borgnine, Aerin Lauder, Camille McDonald, Sean Combs, Kate Walsh, Samantha Harris, Harry and Laura Slatkin, Veronique Gabai-Pinksy, Nacho Figueras, Hilary Rhoda, Dustin Hoffman, Lisa Gottsegen, Simon Doonan, Jonathan Adler, Tracy Reese and Rochelle Bloom, President of the Frangrance Foundation attended The 37th annual ceremony celebrated in grand style at New York City’s Downtown Armory. ”Fifi Awards are known as the Oscars to the Fragrance Industry,” as Paris Hilton gushed to me on the red carpet. The big winners included Marc Jacobs who received the Hall of Fame Award, Paris is the recipient for Female Celebrity Fragrance of the Year and Gwen Stefani’s Harajuku Lovers sweeped the Women’s Luxe Fragrance of the Year.
Mrs. New York Yulia Gurtin, Designer Malan Breton, Entertainer Amanda Lepore, Designer Count Vlad and Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op Photo by Mauro Botero
Publicist Ron Capparella, Cognac Wellerlane and Mrs. New York Yulia Gurtin pose for a photo-op Photo by Mauro Botero
Depesha Magazine Marketing Director Jeremy Cavendish and Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op – Photo by Mauro Botero
Publicist and General Manager of Helen Yarmak Sandy Blye and Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op- Photo by Mauro Botero
Party Crasher and Journalist Shaggy and Cognac Wellerlane – Photo by Mauro Botero
TV Host Cognac Wellerlane promotes TY KU Premium Liqueur
The legendary Helen Yarmak showroom penthouse suite at the Crown Building played host to Depesha Magazine presents Designer Charity Auction to Benefit Russian Children’s Welfare Society. The event was elegantly capped by a fabulous performance from Singing Sensation Amanda Lepore. Amanda expressed that she will be touring throughout the summer promoting her new single “Cotton Candy.”
For years, Russia has served as a backdrop and an inspiration for some of the world’s most celebrated designers. Now, more than ever, Russians are taking part in the language of style around the world, becoming influential consumers of fashion, and luxury products and services. DEPESHA is committed to affirming the Russian identity and exploring the unique characteristics of this lifestyle.
Since its inception in 2003, DEPESHA introduced a number of international brands to the Russian consumer, at the same time we have partnered with a number of Russian designers for their introduction to the West. Fashion has a unique quality to transcend borders and cultures, and DEPESHA serves as a beacon connecting Russian consumer to the global network of style.
For more info please visit http://www.depesha.com
Cognac chats with Marketing Director of Depesha Magazine Jeremy Cavendish – Video by Mauro Botero
Amanda Lepore (born Armand Lepore) is an American transsexual icon who has received attention for her modeling, fashion, partying, and business skills. She has been the advertising face for Heatherette, M.A.C. (cosmetics), Mego Jeans, Swatch, CAMP Cosmetics and more. Fashion design company Heatherette has used Lepore’s image on much of their clothing and has chosen her several times to model their brand during Fashion Week.[1] Lepore is also noted as a regular subject in much of David LaChapelle’s work. She participated in his Artists and Prostitutes 1985-2005 exhibit in New York where she “lived” in a voyeuristic life-sized set.[2] She is represented by “Classic Entertainment Group (Manhattan, NY). Lepore resides in New York City and works as a nightlife hostess at many of the city’s popular parties and clubs.
Cognac chats with Amanda Lepore and Malan Breton – Video by Mauro Botero
Amanda Lepore sings “Cotton Candy” – Video by Mauro Botero
Bravo TV Real Housewfe of New YorkAlex McCord and Husband Simon VanKempen stopped by to show their support and chat with me about their new book on parenting in Manhattan and how they will kick off the summer season in the Hamptons.
Cognac Chats with Realty TV Stars Alex McCord and Simon VanKempen – Video by Mauro Botero
Elegant Fashion Designer and now move star Malan Breton talked about two upcoming film projects that he is very excited to be working on and his new luxurious jewelry line. Malan expressed that he was more than happy to oblige donating an expensive diamond pearl earings for the auction.
Malan Breton has dressed celebrities from the worlds of television,
music, film, and Broadway including Minnie Driver, Jody Watley, Ava
Gaudet, Alicia Minshew and many, many others. His designs have also
been exhibited at New York’s PS1 MOMA.”Malan Breton is well on his
way to being one of America’s greatest designers of Red Carpet fashion…”
(Bravotv.com)
For more info on Designer Malan Breton please visit www.malanbreton.com
Cognac chats with Designer Count Vlad – Video by Mauro Botero
Fashion Designer Count Vlad from Vladicouture conveyed his creation was inspired by a “Monet” painting with dusty hues of pink and lavender and everything French. “I want all Women to look and feel beautiful,” replied the Count.
Before becoming a high fashion designer, Vladimir had a successful 18-year career as a Gynecologist/Obstetrician. Because of his intense love of high fashion and design he started creating couture gowns for the upper class, and political socialites in Russia. After winning his green card in 2001 he decided to fulfill his childhood dream and become a famous fashion couture designer in the United States. He started designing specialty evening gowns for the wealthy New York Russian community. Vlad was introduced to a woman who owned a fashion show room in the garment district. She fell in love with his designs and he started showcasing his red carpet creations at Studio Dee Services. Since then his designs have been worn by R&B singer Ciara, Actress Nicole Robinson and now a suit jacket worn by movie star Luscious Lindsay Lohan in the soon to be released upcoming blockbuster film “Chapter 27”.
For more information on Designs by Vladi of New York you can email Vladimir Ibadov at vladicouture@gmail.com
Cognac chats with Designer Katerena Alkhimova and Mrs. New York Yulia Gurtin – Video by Mauro Botero
Another up and coming designer donaitng one of her designs was Katerena Alkhimova. Ms. Alkhimova is an experienced fashion artist who has been immersed in the fashion industry for over seven years. Katerena continues to work as a fashion model in New York. Around the globe, one can see her face in campaigns such as Yohji Yamamoto, Versus, Kenneth Cole, and Banana Republic. Katerena has appeared in Vogue, Elle and many other publications.
Katerena’s design experience includes a working directly with world famous designer John Galliano. For over a year at Christian Dior in Paris, Katerena worked with a design team that developed styles for upcoming prêt-à-porter and haute couture collections.
Russian born Beauty Queen Mrs. New stopped by and shared some nteresting news that she will be a Beauty Pageant Judge in 2010 forThe Dream Catchers by E.S. Russian Beauty. The Talent & Modeling Pageant invites ambitious and attractive young men and women who want to gain nationwide exposure and begin a career in the fashion and beauty industry to participate in this contest. The contestants must be between 16 and 25 years of age, an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, Russia or post-Soviet states OR first generation child born to such immigrant(s) in the United States. The contestants must reside in the United States legally and be able to provide proof of their immigration status.
Before the glamorous evening ended I had the opportunity to converse with Restaurant Owner Ian Conroy who donated the food, chef and catering from his restaurant, Seven Bar and Grill.
Cognac chats with Restaurant Owner – Ian Conroy – Video by Mauro Botero
Seven Bar & Grill, open since 2000, is perfect for pre-theatre with its center-of-town location. Seven’s intimacy and private party rooms makes it the ideal place for corporate parties and weddings.
Only two blocks from Madison Square Garden and Penn Station, Seven is perfect for that pre-game or pre-Broadway dinner to impress friends and business acquaintances, or potential clients. Come and sample Seven’s new American cuisine in a great casual atmosphere with style.
Reservations are recommended. Please call 212.967.1919
The very well known Network NBC made a tremendous profit when it bought “Farrah’s Story.” My inside source revealed the network spent $5 million for rights to the documentary, which follows former “Charlie’s Angels” star Farrah Fawcett from Los Angeles to Germany to seek treatment for her terminal cancer. One source suggested the numbers might be inaccurate, but others insists the 8.9 million viewers lured in last Friday were worth the high price.
Gorgeous Samantha Harris — star of “Dancing With the Stars” and “The Insider” — will now be starring on Broadway. Samantha will be portraying Roxie Hart in “Chicago” for six weeks starting July 7. Harris, who has a musical theater background and once toured with Monty Python’s Eric Idle, tells us she won’t fall prey to anything like Jeremy Piven’s “mercury poisoning” while at work. “I would have to be on my deathbed to miss a show,” she promises. “I am so ecstatic. I’m from a theater family — I know how hard [Broadway actors] work.” She’ll keep her day job hosting “The Insider.”
Rumors are circulating that Vanessa Minnillo’s is no longer an item with boyfriend Nick Lachey. Vanessa made an appearance recently at Prive at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas to celebrate her friend Malin Ackerman’s 31st birthday and proceeded to have a few Grey Goose vodka drinks. Then she plunked herself on an unidentified man’s lap for “a while,” before challenging a Michael Jackson impersonator to a “Thriller” dance-off atop a dancing platform. Our spy says, “She matched him move for move, complete with a lick of her palm, grab of her crotch and other non-PG-rated moves. She even completed her dance by kicking off her shoes and climbing off the platform in drunken prom girl style.” Minnillo’s rep didn’t return e-mails.
Until my next celebrity gossip darlings,
Cognac poses wearing a Grace Edwards Design with Ron Goldstein President of Revolution Air and Actress/Model/Publicist Debbie Dickinson – Photo by Mauro Botero
Baroness Marion Michaels von Burchard and Cognac Wellerlane pose for photo opportunity – Photo by Mauro Botero
Stylist Patricia Parenti, Cognac and Designer Grace Edwards pose for a photo-op-Photo by Mauro Botero
On May 13th Elite Business Professionals, Diplomats, Royalty, Celebrities and members of the Press attended a fabulous evening of Elite Professionals networking at the Trump International World Bar at 845 United Nations Plaza presented by GLORIA CRESSLER ENTERPRISES
Model/Actress/Publicist Debbie Dickinson, Cognac and Cabaret Singer Shaila Edmonds pose for a photo-op – Photo by Mauro Botero
Overlooking the United Nations and its beautiful gardens, this upscale bar is the first U.S. project of Brazil’s most celebrated hospitality architect, and features soaring 30-foot ceilings, book-matched oak walls, and a “floating” glass mezzanine.
Meterologist Nick Gregory and Cognac Wellerlane pose for a photo-op -Photo by Mauro Botero
Uniquely elegant, The World Bar also holds private cocktail receptions, dinners and business meetings for up to 150 guests. It also features one of the world’s most expensive cocktails, fittingly named the “World Cocktail.” At $50+, it’s a combination of Remy XO, Pineau des Charentes, Veuve Clicquot, and various other ingredients mixed at your table on a spotless silver tray—and crowned with a slick pool of 23-karat liquid gold. How sexy is that darlings!
GLORIA CRESSLER PRODUCER OF THE EVENT, NICK GREGORY OF CHANNEL 5 NEWS
LILLIE STEINBERG CEO TRI UTILITY COST REDUCTIONS, MARTA OF THE ITALIAN WINE & FOOD INSTITUTE, AND ARTEM KOTENKO pose for a photo-op
BORIS KOTENKO OF GLOBAL FINE WINES, GLORIA T. CRESSLER PRODUCER OF THE EVENT, CHRISTIAN DIACONEASA CONSUL FOR ECONOMIC AFFAIR CONSULATE OF ROMANIA, MRS. DIACONEASA, NICK GREGORY OF CHANNEL 5 NEWS AND TOMAS HART DEPUTY CONSUL GENERAL AND COMMERCIAL CONSUL OF THE CONSULATE OF THE CZECH REPUBLIC pose for a photo-opportunity
Cognac chats with Sharon Jones from International Gospel Parade.com and Zeal Greenberg – Video by Mauro Botero
The night started out with a chat with Sharon Jones from International Gospel Parade.com and Zeal Greenberg Co-Founder of the World Development Endowment Foundation. Both enlighted me about their nonprofit organizations.
Cognac chats with Ron Goldstein President of Revolution Air – Video by Mauro Botero
While I was sipping on my very dry Vodka Martini Model/Actress/Publicist Debbie Dickinson sister to Super Model Janice Dickinson strolled in with President Ron Goldstein from Revolution Air, a private jet service for the Rich and Famous. Ron sat down with me and discussed the amenities that his wonderful company has to offer during our interesting interview.
Revolution Air offers personalized, exclusive services and management for private jet travel. The company provides access to air charter jets seating 6-15 passengers or larger VIP-configured business jets accommodating 15 to 150+ passengers. Revolution Air invites you to enjoy their better-than-first-class private air charter service wrapped in the finest 21st century lifestyle. Enjoy five-star private jet travel in a safe and secure flight environment, while their dedicated flight team manages the nuances of your trip. They oversee all the details of your private jet charter travel – from the on-board amenities to the distribution of up-to-the minute itinerary information. Their private aviation and hospitality teams work hard to earn your business every time you fly.
Cognac Chats with Actor/Filmmaker Johnny Solo – Video by Mauro Botero
Debbie also introduced me to very talented Actor and filmmaker John Solo who discussed his latest project the Film “Hope” directed by Justin Foran. The film is about a fearful and timid child that overcomes a dramatic experience in his life when he decides to escape on exciting adventure to the Presidential Inaugeration.
Another interesting personality I had the chance to meet was Radio Host Ira Kleinman from “The Restaurant Theater and Travel Radio Show.”
Cognac chats with Radio Host Ira Kleinman – Video by Mauro Botero
The Restaurant, Food and Travel Radio Show is a weekly “infotainment” program which airs in specific markets in New York, Connecticut and Florida.
Travel segments serve as a travel primer on the “sights and sounds” of the world’s most exciting travel destinations. Colorful and lively host Ira Kleinman entertains and educates the audience on the history, culture, and events of exciting destinations worldwide.
The show’s guests are drawn from restaurants, hotels, spas, tourist boards, cruise lines and wineries around the world.
For more into please visit http://www.restaurantandtravelradio.com/
Later that evening My darling beautiful friend Cabaret Singer and Super Model Shaila Edmonds shared a drink with me as we talked about her latest projects.
Cognac chats with Super Model and Cabaret Singer Shaila Edmonds – Video by Mauro Botero
International Runway model Shailah Edmonds coaches young hopeful models and teaches the “how-to’s” of runway modeling with her informative video: “Runway to Success”
Knowing how to walk the catwalk is the key to opening the doors to runway modeling. Shailah Edmonds, has worked for the most prestigious fashion designers in the world with grace and style, including Yves St. Laurent and Valentino as she discussed in our informative interview. She will be seen in the soon to be released film “The Taking of Pelham 123″ directed by Tony Scott.
For more infomation about beautiful Shaila Edmonds please visit http://www.runwaytosuccess.com/
Actress Nat Wilson stopped by to talk about her latest project Nat & Kat’s Adventures with the Time-Traveling Piano at Broadway Bistro
Cognac chats with Actress/Singer Nat Wilson – Video by Mauro Botero
Nat Wilson and Kat Sherrell met at a party in 2007 and bonded over their shared background in classical music and a mutual love of the Great American Songbook. They decided to collaborate, and made their debut as a cabaret duo at the Broadway Baby Bistro in January 2008 with their cabaret show about women making bold choices: A Touch of Venus: a Cabaret. They have since performed together at such venues as the Duplex, Galapagos Art Space and the Laurie Beechman Theatre, to name a few. They delighted audiences last October with their poignant and irreverent political show: Vote with Your Venus: An Election-Season Celebration of Great American Women and the Great American Songbook. In addition to entertaining discerning adults, Nat and Kat have created a cabaret show for children, Nat & Kat’s Adventures with the Time-Traveling Piano, which they will unleash upon New York City’s youth in May and June of 2009. Stay tuned for more exciting projects as Nat & Kat continue to blur the lines between cabaret and musical theater!
Cognac chats with prize winner Andrew Harcup from CFR Furniture – Video by Mauro Botero
Cognac Chats with Meterologist Nick Gregory – Video by Mauro Botero
I also had the pleasure of interviewing Meterologist Nick Gregory from Fox 5 as we discussed weather patterns and the evening ended with Theresa DuBois from deafwelome.org demonstrating sign language.
Business Professionals that attended the event included:
LISA VASQUEZ VP WACHOVIA BANK
SCOTT THOMAS VP WACHOVIA BANK
LARRY BLASCOVICH SENIOR VP HSBC BANK
JOSEPH BLAKE SENIOR VP HSBC BANK
SCOTT SHILLING CHAIRMAN/CEO NEW HORIZON INVESTMETS CORPARATION,
THELMA DIXON UNITED NATIONS
JULIO PUJOLS COUNSELLOR PERMANENT MISSION OF THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TO THE UN
DR. THOMAS MALLIOS
SHARON JONES OF INTERNATIONAL GOSPEL PARADE
Cognac chats with Carla and Larisa at Membes Only – Video by Patricia Parenti
One the most exciting events in Manhattan is the Circuit Intermezzo Fashion and Accessories Trade Show in Manhattan. I had the chance to attend this fashion experience with my Stylist Paticia Parenti.
This event represents represent wholesale manufacturers who are committed to offering style, quality and quantities at the best price! Items and products come directly from the manufacturer, there is no “middle man”, making the prices unbeatable. Specializing in wholesale purses, wholesale sandals, wholesale swimwear, wholesale sunglasses, wholesale shoes, wholesale handbags, women’s apparel, accessories, plus sizes clothing and leather products. Wholesale Mall supplies wholesale women’s apparel also including furs directly from the manufacturer.
One of the lines that I interviewed were two lovely ladies from Members Only, Larissa and Carla who discussed the latest Fall Collections with me. “it’s the leggings, the leather jacket and the Rocker T,” Larissa explains. Kelli Delaney, Designer and Creative Director of Members Only, has very definate opinions on good fashion and trendsetters. Kelli’s favorites include Model Kate Moss and Victoria Beckhan as the most stylish individuals on the planet, “She has impeccable style from head to toe, and is not afraid of taking fashion risks. She wears big diamonds for day which I love, custom Hermes Birkin bags in a rainbow of colors, and her hair, makeup, and manicure are always perfect…and that body – whoa! It takes an impressive commitment to look this great,” Kelli admits on Fashionista Victoria Beckham. Kelli’s fashion favorites are MEMBERS ONLY dark skinny jeans, a sexy tee, and our black leather asymmetric biker jacket and sexy tunic from our capsule collection.
Another innovative Designer Melody Fuhr showcased her line MyTaiclothing.com. The Mytai gives you endless opportunity to express your creative side. Match the Mytaishirt with some jeans for a casual look. Pull it down to make the mini dress version! In our interview Melody explained THE MYTAI WHEEL OF FASHION-”Our Mytai Wheel of Fashion displays 8 of our original Mytai looks. Each look can be created with the shirt, dress & jumpsuit,” Melody explained.
For more info about Fashion Designer and Creative Director Melody Fuhur and her innovative brand please visit www.mytaiclothing.com
Cognac chats with Designer Tony Taylor – Video by Patricia Parenti
My stylist made it a point to stop at her friends’s booth, Designer Tony Taylor’s Look From London Hosiery.
Tony originally coming from a music background decided to establish the line in Brooklyn, New York in 1989. In our intimate interview Tony revealed “Everything we create is made right her in the United States.” Look From London Hosiery has been at the forefront of cutting edge hosiery design since its inception. The Look From London Hosiery Brand takes pride in being able to tap into the latest trends in fashion by creating a consciousness in legwear that commands attention. Tony expresses, “We have got the coolest tights in Town.”
This very different hosiery brand prides itself from crafting their unusual designs creating unique concepts in fashion leg wear with each fashion season that is in total harmony with latest fashion trends internationally around the globe. Designer, Anthony Taylor confesses “Look From London is not just a tight, it’s a look!”
Cognac chats with Jewelry Designer IradJMoini and Fashion Designer Sherry Cassin – Video by Patricia Parent
During my visit to the Circuit Intermezzo Show, Stylist Patricia Parenti introduced me to exciting Jewelry Designer IradjMoini. His collection has appeared in Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle Magazine. Before leaving I bumped into one of my favorite Fur Designers, Sherry Cassin.
Built upon the belief that achieving a refined modern look need not be an arduous endeavor, CASSIN represents a synergy of exquisite materials and impeccable tailoring that result in effortlessly sophisticated pieces for today’s affluent women.
Launched in 2000 by Sherry Cassin and Bennett Model, the collection quickly became known for its revolutionary rethinking of fur as a lightweight and pliable fabric. As Sherry and Bennett developed their fur collection, this fresh approach of re-examining various materials to reveal their undiscovered qualities expanded beyond fur to include cashmere, leather, shearling, silk, and techno stretch, with an emphasis on achieving a gentle fluidity that accentuates the female form.
Catering to the core customer who is over 35, the collection now offers simple yet elegant pieces that can be easily combined to form exceptional daytime into nighttime occasion ensembles.
Hallmark to CASSIN is a design emphasis that is appropriately focused on the fundamental elements of a garment: its styling, textural characteristics, and quality construction, as opposed to more superficial concerns that tend to narrow the versatility of a garment. CASSIN pieces seamlessly transition from day into night; from cooler climates to warmer ones; and from the city to the country club and resort.
For more info on this wonderful Designer Sherry Cassin and internationally famous collection please visit http://www.cassincollections.com
Frances Grill Founder of Click Model Management, Model/Actor/Publicist Debbie Dickinson and Cognac Wellerlane enjoy cocktails at a dining experience at Cascina Restaurant in Manhattan – Photo by Mauro Botero
I recently enjoyed a fabulous meal at the most charming Italian Restaurant in Manhattan. This delightful little Italian eatery is nestled a hop skip and jump away from Broadway and the Theatre district on 45th and Nineth Avenue. Patrons can enjoy a simple, yet flavorful, country-style food and award winning wine that comes directly from the Cascina-Orsolina Vineyard in the Piemonte region of Italy. Guests particularly enjoy Cascina’s homemade breads, pastas and desserts, and the restaurant’s signature pizzas that are baked in a wood-fired stone oven. In addition to its delicious food, Cascina features an impressive wine list and the largest collection of grappa in New York City.
Cognac chats with Exeutive Chef Salvatore Zapparata and Frances Grill Founder of Click Model Management, Inc. at Cascina Ristorante- Video by Mauro Botero
The Italian word Cascina translated into English is farmhouse – a welcoming abode situated in the rolling vineyards of Italy, exuding warmth and bursting with delicious food, excellent wines and sincere hospitality. One step inside Cascina Ristorante and you are quickly transported from the hustle and bustle of Hell’s Kitchen to a romantic Italian retreat.
Cognac Chats with Founder of Click Model Management, Inc. Frances Grill and Model/Publicist Debbie Dickinson – Video Mauro Botero
During my dining experience at Cascina I had a chance to chat with Executive Chef Salvatore Zapparata as he demonstrated several dishes for our TV and Internet interview. One of the exciting dishes that he created was Tagliatelle con Fave. Below is the recipe:
Tagliatelle con Fave
Makes 2 servings
8 oz fresh Tagliatelle pasta (can substitute fettuccine)
1½ tsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, chopped
½ cup cherry tomatoes, cut in halves
½ cup fava beans, boiled and peeled
½ cup white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
Salt to taste
Shaved parmesan cheese
4 basil leaves, chopped
Cook the tagliatelle in salted boiling water until al dente. In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic and the cherry tomatoes. Add the wine and the fava beans and simer until the beans are tender. Drain the tagliatelle to the fava beans, tomatoes and garlic in the skillet and toss to coat. Serve on two plates and top with shaved parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped basil or if you prefer dine at Cascina Restaurant for the ultimate Italian dinner.
I also experienced how their dellicious pizza is prepared with secret incredgients in their warm and zesty spicy tomatoe sauce and creamy milky mozzarella cheese.
For more info about this charming romantic Itallian restaurant please visit www.cascina.com
While our dinner was being prepared by Chef Salvatore, I had the pleasure of interviewing Frances Grill, founder of Click Model Management, Inc. and Model/Actor/Publicist Debbie Dickinson.
Click Model Management, Inc. was founded in 1980 in New York City and the name “CLICK” is in homage to the sound a camera makes and to the photographers and crew who make magic happen.
Over the past 25 plus years Click has added offices throughout the United States and presently represents over 1000 models with divisions focusing on Women, Men, Plus Size, Runway, Showroom, FIT, and Television Commercials. The talent division manages actors and actresses for film, soap and legit work.
Many of the world’s most famous faces such as Isabella Rossellini, Uma Thurman, Whitney Houston, Elle MacPherson and Grace Jones have been represented by Click Models. Click Models maintains a tight affiliation with Flick East West Talents, one of the most successful television commercial agencies in the country representing hundreds of actors and actresses as well as many of our models for television commercial work.
Frances Grill, founder and partner of Click Models, Illusions, Industria Photo Studios and Flick Talent; is the Leading Facial Expert by discovering a multitude of World Class Supermodels, Movie Stars and Recording Artists. A powerhouse visionary, Frances was instrumental in launching the careers of Whitney Houston, Isabella Rossellini, Uma Thurman, Elle McPherson; as well as iconic photographers Steven Meisel, Fabrizio Ferri, Frank Horvath, Louis Forrer and Oliviero Toscani among many others. In 1996, Framework Entertainment, a bicoastal theatrical management company was formed to handle the personal management needs of actor talent in the television and theatrical industries. Some of the mega-stars represented include: Lucy Liu, Marcia Gay Harden, Debi Mazer, Camryn Manheim, Marcia Cross (Desperate Housewives), John C. Reilly, Aiden Quinn plus many other great talents.
FRANCES GRILL
More information on FRANCES GRILL can be found at www.clickmodels.com.
“Frances is “the Facial Expert of the industry” as seen from the massive amount of talent that she represents and she continues to remain the forerunning Star-maker of the industry,” says Click Top Model, Debbie Dickinson.
Click has a full service Hair/Makeup and Styling division called Illusions, which was acquired at the time that Zoli Models became part of Click Models in 2001.
Click Models remains committed to its successful strategy of growth through new ideas, new acquisitions and continual superior service provided to our talent and clients throughout the world.
for more information about Click Models please visit the website www.clickmodel.com
Is Super Porn Star Tera Patrick a writer? The Ford model-turned-porn star has written “sizable” deal with Gotham for her life story, “Sinner Takes All — a Memoir of Love, Lust, Marriage and Porn.” This exciting tell all book will be released in January and reveals how Patrick — born Linda Ann Hopkins Shapiro — developed from a naive Montana schoolgirl to one of the globe’s top pornorgraphy stars. Her ghost writers is Carrie Borzillo-Vrenna, who inked the sex-and-fashion advice book “Cherry Bomb.”
Super Model Naomi Campbell avoided attending the Costume Institute gala at the Metropolitan last evening not because her rival model Kate Moss was co-chairing but because her dear friend, designer Azzedine Alaia, wasn’t invited. A source revealed, “Naomi, having supported this gala event for many years, planned to attend this year and even purchased a table. However, as she does not wish to be disloyal to Alaia . . .”
Until my next celebrity gossip darlings,
