On Intellectuals, by Tom Wolfe
“An intellectual is a person knowledgeable in one field who speaks out only in others.”
― Tom Wolfe
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Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Tubi Premieres Definitive Documentary Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Freestyle Classic "Point Of No Return"
Tubi debuts "Point Of No Return…X-posed," the definitive doc for the 40th anniversary of the 1984 freestyle classic. Featuring the original X-posed/Exposé trio, producer Lewis Martineé, and key insiders on the hit's rise and lasting impact.
Tubi Premieres Definitive Documentary Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Freestyle Classic "Point Of No Return"
A groundbreaking inside look at the original Exposé trio, the Miami team behind the hit, and the song that redefined dance music.
Four decades after it changed the sound of clubs forever, the Freestyle anthem 'Point Of No Return' takes center stage in the exclusive new documentary 'Point Of No Return…X-posed'—an unfiltered look at the creation of a hit and the record that redefined dance music.
Four decades after it changed the sound of clubs forever, the Freestyle anthem "Point Of No Return" takes center stage in the exclusive new documentary "Point Of No Return… X-posed", now streaming only on Tubi.
First released in 1984 by the Miami girl trio "X-posed" on Pantera Records, the track lit up dance floors and sparked a movement. Within six months, Arista Records signed the act, renamed them Exposé, and by 1985 "Point Of No Return"had climbed to #1 on the Billboard U.S. Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.
The film reveals the untold story of how Alé Lorenzo, Laurie Miller, and Sandra Tola—together with producer Lewis Martineé, Frank Diaz and the Pantera team—created lightning in a bottle with a local club record that would make Exposé a household name by 1986 and change dance music forever.
Produced and directed by Ray De La Garza (Premiere Radio Networks/iHeartMedia, The Walt Disney Company, 2101 Records), the documentary features explosive interviews with the original Exposé members, Martineé, executive producer Francisco Diaz, Arista's David Jurman, and other key players who recount how one song propelled Freestyle from Miami's underground clubs straight into mainstream America.
"Point Of No Return…X-posed" offers an unfiltered look at the creation of a hit, the struggles behind the spotlight, and the enduring impact of a record that marked the "Point Of No Return" in dance music history.
Exclusively streaming now on Tubi via Roc Cartel Films.
About Exposé
Alé Lorenzo – The founding voice of Exposé. Alé brought her raw innocence and Latin flair to "Point Of No Return." Known for her charismatic stage presence and unmistakable tone, she helped shape the Freestyle sound that would dominate Miami clubs and later cross over nationally.
Laurie Miller – A Miami native with a sharp eye for fashion, Laurie added the vocal precision and pop polish that made "Point Of No Return" radio and performance ready. After Exposé, she continues to perform, record, and influence the next wave of Freestyle artists re-uniting with Lewis with new remakes of the Expose' catalog.
Sandra Tola – Sandra provided the soulful balance and fun personality to the trio, fusing R&B stylings with her charm and energy of Latin dance. Her onstage performance and high energy vocals gave Exposé's debut its entertaining punch and enduring replay value.
Where Are They Now?
After leaving Exposé, Alé Lorenzo returned briefly to the club scene with solos club hits like "I Wanna Know" (1988) and "Stop Me If I Fall in Love." She's remained relatively private after leaving the music business by her choice. Laurie landed an independent single deal along with a recording deal with Atlantic Records. She then launched XICA Productions, owns Yoga Fusion with Laurie Miller, serves as Creative Director at Preferred Jewelers International™, designs and owns Bhakti Bags, and is the Creative/Art Director at Continental Buying Group (CBG). Sandra "Sandeé" Casañas (Sandra Tola) passed away on December 15, 2008, at age 46, from a severe seizure. Known professionally as Sandeé, she released singles through Columbia distribution solo dance hits like "Notice Me" and the album "Only Time Will Tell" before her untimely death.
The following iconic trio—Jeanette Jurado, Ann Curless, and Gioia Bruno—became Exposé's next definitive voices from 1986 onward. After years apart, they revived the group in 2006 and successfully secured legal rights to the Exposé name in 2009. Since reuniting, Jurado, Curless, and Bruno continue touring and performing for loyal fans. They dropped the single "Shine On" in 2012 and remain active on the live circuit, often appearing at nostalgic dance-pop and freestyle events. The creative force behind Exposé, Lewis Martineé remains a prolific songwriter and producer in the dance music world. His credits span collaborations with big names like Pet Shop Boys, Ricky Martin, Debbie Gibson, and Vanessa Williams.
About the Director
Ray De La Garza – A veteran music and media executive with decades of experience at the intersection of music and pop culture, brings a unique insider's perspective to storytelling. His work on "Point Of No Return… X-posed" reflects his commitment to preserving pivotal moments in music history and celebrating the artists who created them. Ray is Co-executive Producer of the documentary "The Day The Music Died: The Story Of Don McLeans America Pie," currently streaming on Paramount+ and was nominated for a 2023 MTV Movie Award.
Exclusively streaming now on Tubi via Roc Cartel Films.
Website: https://ponr-xposed.com/
Retired Coast Guard Admiral Riding 2,000+ Miles for Coast Guard Families
A retired Coast Guard Vice Admiral is celebrating his 70th birthday by riding more than 2,000 miles to support Coast Guard families facing financial hardship.
Vice Adm. Manson K. Brown, USCG (Ret.), the first African American to achieve the rank of vice admiral in the Coast Guard, is cycling from Key West, Florida, to Bar Harbor, Maine to raise funds for Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA), the official aid society of the U.S. Coast Guard.
Vice Adm. Manson Brown, U.S. Coast Guard (Ret.), poses at the Southernmost Point Buoy in Key West, Florida, on Feb. 19, 2026, marking the start of his 2,200-mile bicycle ride to raise awareness and support for Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. (Photo courtesy of Manson Brown)
Vice Adm. Manson Brown, U.S. Coast Guard (Ret.), right, visits Coast Guard Station Marathon in Marathon, Florida, on Feb. 19, 2026, during the first leg of his long-distance ride in support of Coast Guard Mutual Assistance. (Photo courtesy of Manson Brown)
Supporters can follow his journey and contribute here: https://bit.ly/Riding-4-CGMA
"For more than 40 years, I had the privilege of serving alongside extraordinary Coast Guard men and women," Brown said. "This ride is about paying it forward to those currently serving—especially when they or their families face personal crisis or significant need."
Brown's ride comes amid renewed uncertainty around federal funding. During the 2019 partial government shutdown, approximately 55,000 Active Duty, Reserve, and civilian Coast Guard members went without pay for 35 days, the first time in recent history a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces served without compensation. Coast Guard civilian employees were again impacted during a subsequent funding lapse in 2025, with many going 43 days without pay.
"Financial disruption for Coast Guard families is becoming the norm, not the exception," said Brooke Millard, CEO of CGMA and a retired Coast Guardsman. "Government shutdowns, deployments, economic volatility, and constant relocations create ongoing financial stress. When service members are worried about paying rent or fixing a car, that affects mission readiness."
In 2025 alone, CGMA delivered more than $12 million in assistance to over 4,000 members of the Coast Guard community. More than $3 million went toward basic living expenses, rental assistance, and debt management. CGMA also provided $1.9 million to civilian employees during the 2025 funding lapse.
Brown departed Key West on Thursday and plans to complete the journey in three phases:Phase 1: Key West to Jacksonville Beach, Florida
Phase 2: Jacksonville Beach to Washington, D.C.
Phase 3: Washington, D.C. to Bar Harbor, Maine
Battling wind gusts of 25–30 mph during the opening leg, Brown said the ride is already testing his endurance. Even though the wind is dying down in Florida, Brown expects the most challenging parts of the ride are in front of him, including the hills of New England and congestion around New York.
CGMA provides daily updates from Brown about his journey. Please follow along on Instagram and Facebook.
About CGMA
CGMA is designated as the official military welfare society for the U.S. Coast Guard by Title 10 of the U.S. Code. CGMA provides grants and interest-free loans across more than 40 individual programs, to support our entire Coast Guard community. Funded entirely by donations, CGMA ensures short-term financial challenges do not become long-term crises. Since 1924, CGMA has delivered more than $260 million in direct assistance.
About Vice Adm. Manson K. Brown, USCG (Ret.)
Brown joined the Coast Guard at age 17 as a cadet at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. He became the first African American to attain the three-star rank in the service's history. His career included senior leadership roles at Coast Guard Headquarters and operational commands in the Pacific and Middle East. In 2014, he was nominated by President Barack Obama and confirmed by the U.S. Senate as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Environmental Observation and Prediction at NOAA, where he oversaw environmental satellite programs and modernization of the National Weather Service. He returned to retirement in 2017.
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#MovietimeInManhattan @TheAcademy #OSCARS ASICS Los Angeles Marathon and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Collaborate on Oscars® Red Carpet Experience on March 8
The ASICS Los Angeles Marathon, produced by The McCourt Foundation, partners with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to bring the magic of the Oscars® directly to the course on race day, Sunday, March 8. At Mile 11, on the famed Hollywood Boulevard, the marathon route will be transformed into a red carpet experience for runners.
In a nod to the 98th Oscars on Sunday, March 15, Mile 11 will be designed to mimic the esteemed event, offering participants the opportunity to experience the red carpet and snap a photo as they run past the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, the home of the Oscars.
“We are thrilled to partner with the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon in this unique and interactive way,” said Academy Chief Marketing, Communications and Content Officer Jennifer Davidson. “The Academy celebrates the passion, excellence and hard work of our global filmmaking community, and we look forward to sharing this excitement with the runners ahead of the 98th Oscars.”
"As the largest community event in Los Angeles, the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with area stakeholders,” said Murphy Reinschreiber, the Chief Operating Officer of The McCourt Foundation. “Partnering with the Academy allows us to celebrate our runners as the stars they are. Mile 11 will also be a fitting celebration of the City of Los Angeles – grit and glamour.”
For more information about the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon and LA 5K, visit LAMarathon.com and follow the event on Strava, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. For more information on the McCourt Foundation, visit mccourtfoundation.org and follow The McCourt Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
The 98th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC, streamed live on Hulu and airs live in more than 200 territories worldwide.
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ABOUT THE MCCOURT FOUNDATION
The McCourt Foundation (TMF) empowers communities to build a healthier world through research, education, and partnerships. TMF’s mission is to cure neurological diseases while empowering communities to build a healthier world. TMF makes a difference by donating to neurology research, hosting educational forums, and using our events such as the ASICS Los Angeles Marathon, Rose Bowl Half Marathon & 5K, Santa Monica Classic and Boston Waterfront 5K, as platforms to raise funds for over 125 nonprofit charity partners. Since its inception, TMF has donated more than $7.2 million to neurology research and generated more than $76M for our nonprofit charity partners. Established in 1992, TMF is a 501 (c)(3) with offices in Boston, MA and Los Angeles, CA. For more information, visit mccourtfoundation.org.
ABOUT THE ASICS LOS ANGELES MARATHON AND LA 5K
The ASICS Los Angeles Marathon is Los Angeles’ largest and longest-running community sporting event. On March 8, 2026, the race will welcome over 26,000 runners starting at Dodger Stadium and finishing the 26.2-mile Stadium-to-the-Stars Course near Avenue of the Stars in Century City. Also included in the Marathon Weekend events are the LA 5K on Saturday, March 7 and the marathon’s two-day Lifestyle Expo held at Dodger Stadium March 6 and 7. The free expo is open to the public, featuring up to 100 exhibitors and annually attracts more than 70,000 attendees. The ASICS Los Angeles Marathon is the final event in the three-race Conquer LA Challenge which begins with the Santa Monica Classic in September, followed by the Rose Bowl Half Marathon & 5K in January.
ABOUT THE ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is the world's premier film organization and is home to a global membership of more than 11,000 of the most accomplished film industry artists and leaders. The Academy connects global audiences – its members, the film industry, and film fans – through their shared passion for making and watching films. The Academy does this by recognizing and celebrating the arts and sciences of moviemaking through renowned awards for cinematic achievement, including the Oscars®, the Governors Awards, and the Scientific and Technical Awards. The Academy’s affiliated charitable organization, the Academy Foundation, serves a public benefit through its robust educational, preservation and cultural activities. This includes the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, the world's largest global film museum, the Academy Collection, the largest film-related collection in the world, and talent development programs for emerging artists. Year-round, the Academy creates opportunities for all communities to engage with the film world.
FOLLOW THE ACADEMY
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The Walt Disney Studios and World War II Exhibition Opens March 2026 at Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
The upcoming exhibition will highlight The Walt Disney Studios' extraordinary involvement during the United States World War II effort.
The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum announces a new special exhibition, The Walt Disney Studios and World War II, which will be on view from March 13 to September 10, 2026. This immersive, family-friendly exhibition illustrates how The Walt Disney Studios contributed to the Allies' war effort by devoting over 90% of its output to producing original artwork, as well as training and public-service films. The Walt Disney Studios and World War II is organized by The Walt Disney Family Museum, in San Francisco, California.
The Walt Disney Studios and World War II will be on view from March 13 to September 10, 2026 at the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum. Image Credit: Mike Gabriel (United States), Donald Duck exhibition insignia for The Walt Disney Studios and World War II, 2019. Courtesy of Mike Gabriel;© Disney
When Walt Disney received word that The Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank, CA, had been converted into an Army anti-aircraft base after the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1941, he and his staff pledged to support the war effort without hesitation. All of Disney's contributions to the war effort, which played an important role in boosting morale, were produced without profit. Disney's war production included more than 1,200 insignia for the Armed Forces and related auxiliary groups, animated short films with some favorite Disney characters, as well as instructional media and government educational films, posters, and publications. The Studios' wartime production was considered so important to the United States that it was guarded around the clock by troops.
"The Walt Disney Studios and World War II exhibition tells a powerful story of creativity, resilience, and courage during one of the most challenging times in history," said Mary Pat Higgins, president and CEO of the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum. "Walt Disney and his studio acted as true Upstanders, using their talents and resources to support the Allied war effort and uplift morale on the front lines and the home front. By bringing this immersive, family-friendly exhibition to North Texas, we are highlighting Disney's extraordinary contributions and inspiring visitors of all ages to recognize the impact of using creativity and compassion to stand against injustice."
During this unique era of animation history, The Walt Disney Studios functioned as a tremendous morale builder for both the civilian public and deployed Allied troops. Walt knew that cartoons would be an ideal medium for communicating with the American people in a casual, uncomplicated manner about war related issues and anxieties. Disney characters appeared on insignia for military units worldwide, seen on aircrafts, ships, vehicles, buildings, and clothing. They were also part of home front efforts, appearing in ads, magazines, posters, and campaigns promoting food recycling, rationing, war bonds, and farming. This exhibition includes more than 500 examples of these rare, historical objects, and film clips.
"The stories of the men and women who fought to defend our country are both inspirational and instructive. As Walt Disney once said, 'Tomorrow will be better for as long as America keeps alive the ideals of freedom and a better life.' We are honored to collaborate with the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum to bring The Walt Disney Studios and World War II to Dallas," said Kirsten Komoroske, executive director of The Walt Disney Family Museum.
The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum extends its heartfelt gratitude to presenting sponsor Texas Instruments, with additional support from Debbie and Ron Greene, American Airlines, Dallas Tourism Public Improvement District, NFI Industries, and other supporters for their generous contributions to this special exhibition.
"We are thrilled to support this incredible exhibition that highlights an inspiring chapter of history where ingenuity and determination were used to make a meaningful difference," said Andy Smith, director of giving and volunteering for Texas Instruments and executive director of the TI Foundation. "This exhibit not only showcases the important role The Walt Disney Studios played during World War II, but also reminds us of the power of resilience and unity in the face of immense challenges."
For more information and to purchase tickets for The Walt Disney Studios and World War II exhibition, visit: dhhrm.org/disney
About the Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum
The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum teaches the history of the Holocaust and advances human rights to combat prejudice, hatred, and indifference. Founded in 1984 by Holocaust survivors, the Museum serves as an educational center for the community. The Museum has three educational wings highlighting Holocaust history and human rights violations that shaped our world; a Dimensions in Testimony Theater featuring an opportunity to interact directly with a holographic image of a Holocaust survivor; a 250-seat theater with daily screenings and regular special events, and a rotating special exhibition gallery. Through powerful exhibitions, engaging programs, and grade-appropriate resources, the Museum inspires students and visitors to become Upstanders who make a positive difference. Visit DHHRM.org or call (214) 741-7500 for more information.
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Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Paola's Since 1983 A Peachy's Pick Since 2011 by Founder Paola Bottero from Rome, Italy #Italian by #StefanoMarracino #DanielMarracino #RamonAlvarracin #AlejandroPerez and #ZolaMarracino 1302 Madison Avenue between 92nd and 93rd #UpperEastSide
Founder Paola Bottero from her 2011 review when she earned Peachy's Picks status
She was with all of us in spirit during this new smashing review!
All recipes today at Paola's were created by Paola herself.
Four of the five owners today: Stefano Marracino, Paola's son; Zola Marracino, Paola's granddaughter; Ramon Alvarracin, Paola's adopted son of 30 years and Executive Chef Alejandro Perez
Not pictured: Daniel Marracino, Paola's son....maybe we will meet you another day!
It's not who you know, it's WHOM YOU KNOW and we knew Paola Bottero, native of Rome, Italy, whom sadly we cannot work with anymore. We believe you can see her reading up there through the skylight where surely she is smiling upon her fabulous family legacy of people, cuisine and business! She was one of the first featured and one of the only women restaurant owners we ever worked with. She was first featured in Terrific Takeout and then achieved Peachy's Picks.
We are so sad we cannot work with her anymore and please say a prayer for her.
Paola was restaurant neighbors with one of our most absolute favorites over the 17 year history here: Mover and Shaker Bill Knapp of Table D'Hote fame, and Billy also raved about her recently when we spoke to him; Paola was friendly and collegial.
We are so happy that we can work with Paola's team of 2026 and beyond!
We know she is so, so proud of them.
It has been a long time and they have come a long way, baby.
Today, Paola's is led by her son, owner Stefano Marracino, whom we worked with in person.
The ownership team boasts tremendous depth and includes older brother Daniel Marracino, Ramon Alvarracin, a 30-year veteran and Paola's adopted son who is the General Manager, Executive Chef Alejandro Perez who started in 2017 and has been an owner as of 2026, and Paola's granddaughter who started in coat check and hosting, Zola Marracino, Stefano's daughter and Assistant Manager.
The story started with these business cards Stefano showed us!
Fabrizio Bottero is famous to us because he is Paola's younger brother and he among others trained Stefano, and his influence is part of the family story here. (Click on his name to see what our friends at Grokipedia say.) Every element here is attended to right down to the make of the fine wine glass.
What is new is the location: 1302 Madison Avenue is the new home of Paola's as of January 1, 2026.
It had been across the street, and this kitchen here is brand new! Paola's attracts many locals but we are confident if you are visiting Manhattan you would be equally welcome with the high caliber level of hospitality you encounter at Paola's. There are 65 coveted seats at Paola's to enjoy the classic Italian excellence, starting with the Polpettine Alla Romana. Pat La Frieda grass-fed beef and all-natural Hampshire pork meatballs team up with a 75 beef/25 pork ratio for the ultimate in elegant delicious. They wonderfully waltz in a sensational savory tomato sauce along with fresh ricotta and Pecorino.
Insalata Cesare is a classic and is exactly what we were looking for. You have choices of adding chicken or shrimp for protein, and we chose the Bell and Evans grilled chicken, hormone and antibiotic free we are told, executed to perfection! Along with the house-made croutons, it made a lovely composition with the greens of course. Peachy only likes her Caesar salads dressed and this was just right for Goldilocks Peachy: not too much or too little dressing. Mozzarella is a must, and here it's warm and house-made with the signature Paola's touch. It does come dressed, so depending on your dressing inclinations, order accordingly. Roasted red peppers and fresh basil come in tandem, and there's a Taggiasca (olives) olive oil vinaigrette.
Avid readers know that Peachy likes to put the dressing on herself, and they listened at Paola's! Rughetta e Parmigiano is gorgeous baby arugula topped with finely shaved Grana Padano cheese, and for everyone else is tossed in the proprietary EVOO and lemon vinaigrette. The pasta section we found was most commanding this visit. Cacio e Pepe was Peachy's favorite and she shares this opinion with Executive Chef Alejandro who of course made it along with everything else this visit. Roman-style (remember, Paola was from ROME) house-made spaghetti, Pecorino cheese, and crushed black peppercorns in perfect proportion to each other culminated in luxurious creamy goodness that is exactly what you need in the dead of winter.
Another superlative choice is GM Ramon's favorite (remember, adopted son of 30 years): Fettuccine Alla Bolognese, also made on premises. And of course like most things in life, it is even better with cheese on top! It is the best blizzard you can have! Paola's house-made fettuccine pasta with Pat LaFrieda's grass-fed beef and all-natural Hampshire pork combine for an essential winter flavor that will catapult your tastebuds to the upper echelons of Italy on the Upper East Side, the best part of town of course. Finally, Daniel's favorite we finished this menu area with: Bucatini All'Amatriciana: Traditional Roman thick, hollow spaghetti with plum tomatoes, crisp pancetta and onions which winningly team up and broadcast that Paola's is in it to win it and that she taught them all well. Also, we commend their grammatically flawless menu (you know this was all named after Peachy's English class with Rennie), especially the compound adjectives which we found to be properly hyphenated.
Note that Paola's aims to please and sometimes they make dishes at your request, and the menu itself is representative of Italy as a whole, not a certain region. Secondi was a fish and a meat we chose, above say enchante to the Mediterranean Branzino, served in an eight-ounce style grilled and is the frontman to the sauteed spinach singing backup in a perfect key. They tell us that Down East delivers fresh seafood five days a week and this was absolutely fresh! Cosce di Pollo was the final firework: grilled, marinated boneless chicken thighs with sauteed broccoli rabe are emblazoned with totally delicious written all over it as you can see! Pictures are never edited at Whom You Know: you perform excellence like the Paola's team or we do not publish.
The truth is your dinner looks exactly this delicious when you know where to go!
Peachy still Picks Paola's!
Paola's is Highly Recommended by Whom You Know.
Also, they have other culinary feats up their sleeve we surmise so stay tuned!
They might not be a one-trick pony....
Monday, March 2, 2026
#FashionAlert Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) to Honor Gap Inc. President and CEO Richard Dickson at 2026 FIT Annual Gala Our Coverage Sponsored by Hallak Cleaners the Couture Cleaner @hallakcleaners @hallakcouturecleaner
For sixty years, Hallak Cleaners the Couture Cleaner has been entrusted with Manhattan’s finest wardrobes. The official cleaner of Whom You Know since 2012, Hallak is the only cleaner Peachy Deegan would ever use and we are honored to work with them. New York’s fashion boutiques have been recommending Hallak to their loyal customers for years. They understand the importance of quality fabric care and protecting their client’s investment. While Hallak is known for their expert handling of couture and other precious items, they also make it a point to give your more casual garments the same level of attention. Their representatives are always on the look out for the hard-to-notice stains, loose seams, missing buttons, etc. You can trust Hallak Cleaners with your entire wardrobe and then some. A sample of some of their specialized services:
Tables & Bed Linens
Suede, Leather & Furs
Couture & Casual Wear
Custom Interior Services
Expert tailoring department located at both locations.
Complimentary Pick Up and Delivery Service 6 Days a Week.
Hallak Cleaners
1232 Second Avenue (near 65th)
New York, NY 10065
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a pick up, please feel free to email us at info@hallak.com
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Celebrating a legacy of brand reinvigoration and a shared mission to empower the next generation of creative leaders
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) announces that Richard Dickson, president and chief executive officer of Gap Inc., will be the guest of honor at the FIT Annual Gala on April 14, 2026. Hosted at the historic Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, the evening will celebrate Dickson's transformative career, from revitalizing global icons at Mattel to ushering in a new era of American style at Gap Inc.
Courtesy of the Gap, Inc.
This year's gala theme, Threads of Impact, underscores the shared vision of FIT and Gap Inc. and recognizes Dickson's legacy of brand reinvigoration, highlighting his career-long dedication to treating creativity as both a cultural force and a business imperative.
"Gap Inc. is a house of iconic American brands guided by our purpose—to bridge gaps to create a better world. That includes bridging the opportunity gap. FIT embodies that same spirit, bringing education and industry together to unlock talent and expand what's possible. We're committed to opening doors, investing in emerging creatives, and building meaningful pathways into this industry for the next generation," said Richard Dickson, president and CEO, Gap Inc. "I'm truly honored by this recognition and proud to champion the students and future leaders who will shape what's next in design and fashion."
"We are thrilled to celebrate Richard Dickson at FIT's Annual Gala, in recognition of his remarkable achievements and leadership," said FIT President Jason S. Schupbach. "Richard's commitment to empowering the next generation reflects the heart of our mission—and inspires the entire FIT community. We are grateful for his generous support, as his work affirms what FIT has always shown: that when industry and education work as one, they are the catalyst for real-world change that shifts our culture."
Dickson was appointed president and CEO of Gap Inc. in July 2023 and leads the company's portfolio of iconic American brands, including Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta. Before stepping into this role, he was the president and chief operating officer of Mattel, where he was a lead architect in a global corporate transformation that reinvigorated Mattel's storied brands, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price, re-enforcing Mattel as a key industry leader and cultural cornerstone. He also served as executive producer of the Barbie movie. While at Mattel, Dickson was appointed to the Gap Inc. Board of Directors in November 2022.
Under Dickson's leadership, Gap Inc. is progressing into one of the most celebrated companies in fashion, where purpose and profit are aligned to matter, creating positive impacts for people and the planet. Throughout his career, Dickson has been a committed champion of this belief, earning recognition including The Elizabeth Taylor Commitment to End AIDS Award and the Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose Force for Good Award.
The FIT Annual Gala, attended by distinguished guests and alumni from the fashion and creative industries, benefits the FIT Foundation, which is dedicated to uplifting the next generation of FIT students. In addition to facilitating programs and developing new initiatives, the Foundation provided scholarships totaling more than $3 million in 2025.
For information, tickets, and ad journal details, visit fitnyc.edu/gala-2026.
ABOUT THE FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
A part of the State University of New York (SUNY), FIT has been a leader in career education in art, design, business, and technology throughout its history. Providing more than 8,000 students annually with an uncommon blend of hands-on, practical experience, theory, and a firm grounding in the liberal arts, the college offers a wide range of affordable programs that foster innovation and collaboration. Its distinctive curriculum is geared to today's rapidly growing creative economy, in fields such as computer animation, toy design, production management, film and media, and cosmetics and fragrance marketing. Internationally renowned, FIT draws on its New York City location to provide a vibrant, creative community in which to learn. The college offers nearly 50 majors and grants AAS, BFA, BS, MA, MFA, and MPS degrees, preparing students for professional success and leadership in the creative economy. Among notable alumni in fashion are Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Norma Kamali, Reem Acra, Brian Atwood, Stephen Burrows, Dennis Basso, Francisco Costa, Nanette Lepore, Bibhu Mohapatra, Ralph Rucci, John Bartlett, Peter Do, Daniel Roseberry, and Michelle Smith. Other prominent graduates include Leslie Blodgett, creator of bareMinerals; international restaurant designer Tony Chi; and Nina Garcia, editor-in-chief of Elle. For more information, visit fitnyc.edu.
ABOUT THE FIT FOUNDATION
Since the establishment of FIT in 1944, the FIT Foundation has advanced the college's mission and strategic goals. As FIT's primary fundraising arm, the Foundation supports and celebrates the innovation, inclusivity, and unabashed creativity that characterize the college. Serving as a bridge between donors and FIT's schools, departments, and programs, the Foundation strives to inspire and empower the vibrant community of FIT friends, students, alumni, faculty, and industry leaders. The Foundation's core mission is to ignite thought leadership, foster ingenuity and exploration, and help FIT lead the next generation of unconventional minds into the new creative economy. This is made possible through scholarship development, industry engagement, and programs and events that create a social impact.
ABOUT GAP INC.
Gap Inc., a purpose-driven house of iconic brands, is the largest specialty apparel company in America. Its Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta brands offer clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products for men, women, and children available worldwide through company-operated and franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. Since 1969, Gap Inc. has created products and experiences that shape culture, while doing right by employees, communities, and the planet through its commitment to bridge gaps to create a better world. For more information, please visit www.gapinc.com.
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Breast Cancer 2026 Progress Outlook: New Research Discoveries and Opportunities
From oral hormone treatments to liquid biopsies to next-generation targeted therapies, Susan G. Komen® helps drive the science reshaping the future
-Susan G. Komen®, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, today issued its 2026 Breast Cancer Progress Outlook. New data shows the U.S. breast cancer death rate has declined 44% between its peak in 1989 and 2023 — averting an estimated 546,000 deaths due largely to advances in treatment and earlier detection through screening.
Yet breast cancer remains an urgent public health challenge. Incidence of invasive breast cancer has been rising since the mid-2000s, increasing by an average of 1% per year from 2013 to 2022, with faster growth among women under 50 (1.4% per year). An estimated 43,000 people in the U.S. are expected to die from the disease this year.
While decades of progress demonstrate what is possible when science, early detection and access to high quality care come together, these gains have not been experienced equally. Persistent socioeconomic and racial disparities continue to drive barriers to lifesaving care; breast cancer mortality has not decreased among American Indian and Alaska Native women over the past 30 years and remains 37% higher in Black women compared with white women, despite lower incidence, and resistance to existing therapies is still driving breast cancer to spread and become deadly for tens of thousands of people in the U.S. annually. Closing these gaps and accelerating research progress is essential to save lives and improve for everyone affected by the disease. These efforts must be complemented by state and federal policies that drive new discoveries and provide greater access to affordable, high-quality care.
What’s Next: The Innovations Shaping the Future of Breast Cancer Care
Over the past 30 years, Komen’s investment in research contributed to the development of 30 lifesaving, FDA-approved breast cancer drugs.
More promising research advances for patients are on the way in 2026 thanks to the collective work of the scientific community.
Three areas in particular are making significant progress for patients: new oral treatments for metastatic hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, simple blood tests that may be able to detect tiny traces of cancer DNA in the bloodstream and next-generation therapies that use lab-made antibodies to deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells. Oral pills called Selective Estrogen Receptor Degrader, or SERDs, which can be taken at home, offer an easier alternative to long-standing injected treatments for people with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer. These new options could make care more convenient and help people stay on treatment longer.
Another major area to watch is antibody-drug conjugates (or ADCs), which act like targeted missiles by attaching chemotherapy to an antibody that seeks cancer cells. Early results show these therapies can be highly effective and more targeted to cancer cells.
Researchers are also making progress with “liquid biopsies” (also known as ctDNA and MRD testing) which allow doctors to look for cancer DNA in the blood. This could one day help detect recurrence earlier and guide more personalized treatment decisions. To educate our community on the rapid advances in breast cancer care, Komen reports on the latest advances in breast cancer research and treatment through its Breast Cancer Breakthroughs YouTube series.
“All these developments point toward a future of more precise, personalized care — matching the right treatment to each person at the right time,” said Victoria Smart, senior vice president of mission, Susan G. Komen. “Most importantly, this lifesaving progress would never be possible without our researchers, the investment made to support them at all stages of their careers and most importantly the countless patients who have helped inform these advancements along the way and participated in clinical trials. There is so much to be proud of and look forward to in the breast cancer research space — every day a step closer to a world where no one dies from breast cancer.”
Harnessing the Power of AI Without Creating More Inequities
While we look to the lab and clinic for advances in research and treatment, the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) also presents new opportunities and challenges for patients and doctors alike. For example, patients can utilize AI to research their treatment plan, learn more about their disease and discover possible clinical trial options to discuss with their care team. While not yet part of today’s standard care, AI is being used by some to help alleviate provider burden and improve accuracy of screening mammograms and, therefore, detecting the disease earlier — leading to better survival rates. What’s more, recent studies suggest that AI could help build risk-prediction models to better identify higher-risk patients, offering a chance for more personalized cancer screening plans.
At the same time, careful and responsible implementation is essential. The use of AI in breast cancer screening is still under study, and overall, providers and health care systems must ensure that the utilization of AI doesn’t inadvertently deepen disparities or create additional barriers to high-quality care: increased costs, limited availability or create new barriers for patients seeking timely, high-quality care.
For example, since AI tools often use information from unclear or no evidenced based resources, guidance from a patient’s care team is always necessary to prevent the spread of mis- and disinformation. Additionally, AI is trained on existing datasets, and if those datasets do not represent the population of people impacted by breast cancer, the information can be skewed or even harmful to certain people. In fact, only about 5% of adults with cancer participate in clinical trials, and fewer than 10% of those participants represent people who are historically marginalized. This inclusivity is essential not only to developing treatments that work for every demographic but also to building the robust data needed to avoid deepening health inequities.
While mis-information has long been a concern in health care, Komen continues to serve as a trusted resource of breast health information. With its long-standing partnership with Harvard University and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Komen and our team of scientific and public health experts ensure our educational content reflects the latest research and best practices in breast cancer care.
“As science continues to accelerate, Komen remains focused on ensuring progress reaches every person affected by breast cancer and that every person has the information they need to make informed health care decisions,” Smart continued. “We’re living in the future we dreamt about only 20 years ago — emerging therapies, smarter screening tools and countless lessons learned. But with this power comes the great responsibility to both challenge and embrace new technology as it becomes a permanent tool in the patient experience.”
About Susan G. Komen®
Susan G. Komen® is the world’s leading nonprofit breast cancer organization, working to save lives and end breast cancer forever. Komen has an unmatched, comprehensive 360-degree approach to fighting this disease across all fronts and supporting millions of people in the U.S. and in countries worldwide. We advocate for patients, drive research breakthroughs, improve access to high-quality care, offer direct patient support and empower people with trustworthy information. Founded by Nancy G. Brinker, who promised her sister, Susan G. Komen, that she would end the disease that claimed Suzy’s life, Komen remains committed to supporting those affected by breast cancer today, while tirelessly searching for tomorrow’s cures. Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at www.komen.org/contact-us/follow-us/.
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#ChezPeachy #FloridaPeachy Kohler Showcases Innovation and Design Excellence at Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach
The kitchen and bath leader teams up with eleven acclaimed interior designers for the ninth-annual Palm Beach Show House
Kohler is pleased to announce its continued partnership with the Kips Bay Decorator Show House as the exclusive kitchen and bath plumbing partner. For the first time ever, the Show House will take over two houses, and Kohler products will appear throughout both, displaying new introductions from the brand including the Kohler C2 Sauna, the Aquifer 4-in-1 beverage faucet, and the Synthos workstation sink.
"It's an honor to collaborate with such a talented group of designers and witness the thoughtful ways they incorporate Kohler products into their spaces," said Brittany Canniff Kimball, Sr. Marketing Manager, Brand Partnerships & Designers at Kohler. "Seeing their creative vision come to life is inspiring and we're proud to continue our partnership with the Kips Bay Decorator Show House while helping to raise vital funds that support youth in New York and Palm Beach."
Eleven design firms selected design-forward Kohler products for their spaces, including Robert Bell and Firefinish Interiors, who each created outdoor sanctuaries intended for contemplation and relaxation. Bell incorporated one of Kohler's newest offerings, the Kohler C2 outdoor sauna, a three-person retreat that fits perfectly into the landscape. Firefinish Interiors took a similarly nature-inspired approach in the cabana bath and outdoor shower area, specifying Vibrant Brushed Bronze finish from the Components Mix and Match faucet collection.
Designed by Amy Young Design and Yarn Design Associates, the two kitchens are conceived as spaces for gathering and entertaining, showcasing new products including the Billet touchless pull-down faucet and the Aquifer 4-in-1 beverage faucet, which provides instant ambient, chilled, near boiling, or sparkling water at the touch of a button. To evoke an "after hours" atmosphere, Amy Young Design selected a moody Matte Black finish, while Yarn Design Associates opted for Kohler's luxurious Moderne Brushed Brass.
Eilyn Jimenez of Sire Design created a primary bathroom and adjoining dressing room, inspired by 17th and 18th-century traditions where the act of getting ready was its own art form. This is brought to life through the Artifacts Mix and Match faucet collection in Vibrant French Gold and the Memoirs Stately toilet in the elegant Biscuit color.
Kohler's premium, artfully crafted colors can be seen in rooms throughout both houses, including the classic Dune finish on Memoirs Stately console and toilet in Danielle Balanis' bathroom, Tartan & Toile's use of sleek Translucent Doe for her Kallos glass lavatory sink, and the shimmering Translucent Dew finish on the Salute glass vessel sink incorporated by Alexander Interiors.
"Kohler is an integral part of the success of the Show House, and we're proud to continue our partnership with the brand," said Nazira Handal, Director of Special Events and Corporate Partnerships at Kips Bay Boys and Girls Club. "Kohler continues to push the boundaries of design excellence while continuing to support our goal of raising funds for more than 11,000 young people."
Since 1973, the Kips Bay Decorator Show House has raised millions of dollars for after-school programs in the Bronx. The event now includes locations in New York and Dallas, where Kohler continues to support.
Tickets for the Palm Beach Show House start at $50 and will run through March 24th, and will support the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County, supporting vital programming for local youth.
About Kohler Co.
For more than 150 years, Kohler Co. has been a global leader in bold design and innovation, dedicated to helping people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives through its kitchen and bath products; luxury cabinetry, tile, and lighting; wellness products and services; and luxury hospitality experiences and major championship golf. Privately held Kohler Co. was founded in 1873 and is headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin. The company also develops sustainable living solutions to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations. Its Innovation for Good platform addresses pressing issues, such as clean water and safe sanitation, with breakthrough products and services for underserved communities. David Kohler serves as Chair and CEO and represents the fourth generation of Kohler family leadership.
Kips Bay Decorator Show House
Each year celebrated interior designers transform a luxury Manhattan home into an elegant exhibition of fine furnishings, art, and technology. This event began in 1973 when several dedicated supporters of the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club launched the Decorator Show House to raise critical funds for much needed after school and enrichment programs for New York City children. Over four decades, this project has grown into a must-see event for thousands of design enthusiasts and is renowned for sparking interior design trends worldwide. The Show House receives as many as 15,000 guests annually from across the nation. Since its inception, the Show House has raised over $33 million for the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club. For more information, please visit www.kipsbaydecoratorshowhouse.org.
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#CulturedPeachy @FrickCollection Flora Yukhnovich’s Four Seasons Site-Specific Installation Responds to Frick’s Holdings by François Boucher September 3, 2025, through March 9, 2026
The Frick Collection is pleased to announce a new site-specific installation by artist Flora Yukhnovich (b. United Kingdom, 1990), in dialogue with François Boucher’s series The Four Seasons, from the museum’s permanent collection. Her mural will cover the walls of the Frick’s Cabinet Gallery, a reimagined space dedicated to the presentation of small-scale displays and contemporary interventions. Yukhnovich will respond to Boucher’s work in her characteristic painting style, a blend of representation and abstraction which draws from art historical traditions while boldly reinterpreting them. Her immersive, energetic works—inspired by the French Rococo, Italian Baroque, and Abstract Expressionist movements—are both modern and timeless, reflecting a rigorous engagement with the legacies of Western painting.
“Flora’s clear admiration for the work of Boucher—an artist who is well represented in our collection—makes her a natural fit for this project. We are excited to have her fill the walls of our new Cabinet Gallery, which was previously home to the Boucher Room, recently reinstalled on the museum’s second floor,” stated Xavier F. Salomon, the Frick’s Deputy Director and Peter Jay Sharp Chief Curator, who initiated the collaboration.
Commented Yukhnovich, “Painting this mural for the Frick has felt like stepping through one of Boucher’s portals into a world that’s both imagined and eerily familiar. I wanted to create a continuous landscape that blurs the boundaries between past and present—a space where ornamentation, fantasy, and reality collide. It’s been thrilling to explore how the language of the Rococo can speak so powerfully to our own curated, hyper-visual world.”
Visitors will be able to view Boucher’s Four Seasons nearby in the West Vestibule, where the series hung when the Frick family resided in the home. The Cabinet, which will house the installation, is also the former site of the museum’s Boucher Room, an eighteenth-century French period room featuring another series by Boucher, The Arts and Sciences—now a highlight of the newly opened second-floor galleries.
Yukhnovich’s mural is the latest in a series of responses to the Frick’s permanent collection by living artists. Past presentations of this kind include Porcelain, No Simple Matter: Arlene Shechet and the Arnhold Collection (2016–17); Elective Affinities: Edmund de Waal at The Frick Collection (2019); Living Histories: Queer Views and Old Masters (2021–22, Frick Madison); Propagazioni: Giuseppe Penone at Sèvres (2022, Frick Madison); Olafur Eliasson and Claude Monet (2022–23, Frick Madison); Nicolas Party and Rosalba Carriera (2023–24, Frick Madison); and Porcelain Garden: Vladimir Kanevsky at The Frick Collection (through November 17, 2025).
BOUCHER’S FOUR SEASONS
François Boucher (1703–1770) made the four paintings known as The Four Seasons in 1755 for Madame de Pompadour, King Louis XV’s long-term official mistress. Their original location is unknown, but their unusual shape suggests that they were used as overdoors, no doubt in one of Pompadour’s many properties in France. Instead of the labors that traditionally illustrate the theme of the four seasons, Boucher depicts delightful amorous encounters in joyous colors.
In Spring, a youth adorns his lover’s hair with flowers. A group of voluptuous bathing nudes represents Summer. In Autumn, a young man offers a bunch of grapes to his fashionable beloved. And in Winter, a man pushes the heroine through the snow on an elaborate sleigh. This combination of luxury and seduction—all treated in a fanciful, even humorous manner—is typical of the artist.
Henry Clay Frick came into possession of The Four Seasons in 1916, when he acquired the series directly from the American heiress and art dealer Virginia Bacon. He had long admired the works, which had been coveted by other major collectors. That same year, Frick also acquired Boucher’s Arts and Sciences to adorn the walls of his wife’s, Adelaide Childs Frick’s, private boudoir on the mansion’s second floor. Before The Frick Collection opened to the public in 1935, this series was reinstalled in a first-floor gallery known as the Boucher Room. During the museum’s recent renovation, the entire room was returned to its original location upstairs. Boucher’s bright, playful scenes now grace both floors of the museum, delighting viewers as they did in the house a century ago.
PUBLIC PROGRAMMING
The installation will be featured in a number of engaging public programs. Yukhnovich will discuss her mural and process at a lecture in early 2026 in the museum’s new Stephen A. Schwarzman Auditorium. The display will also serve as a source of inspiration for artists of all levels in the popular free Sketch Night event series. Programming details will be shared at frick.org/programs.
ACCOMPANYING PUBLICATION
The installation will be accompanied by the publication of a new volume in the acclaimed Frick Diptych series, which illuminates a single masterpiece from the permanent collection by pairing complementary essays by a curator and a contemporary artist, musician, or other cultural luminary. This volume will feature a text by Yukhnovich and an art historical essay by Salomon on the significance of Boucher’s beloved series.
The hardcover publication of eighty pages ($29.95, member in-store price $23.96) features forty color illustrations. The book will be published in February 2026. It may be pre-ordered online at shop.frick.org, by emailing shop@frick.org, or by calling 212.547.6849. It will also be available for purchase onsite in the Museum Shop.
ABOUT FLORA YUKHNOVICH
Born in Norwich, United Kingdom, in 1990, Yukhnovich developed her characteristic painting language as a student at City & Guilds of London Art School, where she completed her MA in 2017. Yukhnovich held solo exhibitions at the Wallace Collection in London and at Ordrupgaard in Charlottenlund, Denmark, in 2024, as well as an exhibition at the University of Oxford’s Ashmolean Museum in 2023. Her work is held in prominent collections worldwide, including the Brooklyn Museum, New York; the Government Art Collection, London; the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Washington, D.C.; the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts; and the National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne.
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