The Mild Observer

 The jewel-toned evening skyline It's no wonder why Istanbul has such an overwhelming draw given its undeniable beauty and fascinating history. I was fortunate enough to visit this past September and was immediately enraptured. The moment I arrived I was enveloped in such a visceral manner that all my senses were completely heightened. It was as if I had never fully appreciated just how powerfully our sensations can illustrate an experience.    "Galata Tower" from the Bosphorus From the energetic locals, the multi-dimensional cuisine, to the cultural convergences, I took in as much as I could, every single moment I had there. Days were filled with sight-seeing excursions, neighborhood meandering, and leisurely meals in a variety of culinary outposts. When not looking for the "off-the-beaten-path" destinations, an unexpected turn down a cobblestone street would leave me gazing upon a secret vista (that seemed) only meant for my pleasure. It was dur...

President Barack Obama at the LGBT Gala Last night, I was fortunate enough to hear President Obama speak at the LGBT Leadership Council gala dinner. Mr. K and I attended the fundraiser in Manhattan where over 600 men and women gathered to show support for The President and his administration. Not only for the major milestones they have accomplished - the repeal of " Don't Ask Don't Tell " and DOMA - but for all the work that still needs to be done for our community. With the 2012 campaign trail about to kick-off, it is critical we do what we can to ensure The President can continue his fight for our rights and the freedom of future generations to live and love without fear of prosecution.  

View of Spiaggia Grande - Positano There are a few places in this world that have left indelible impressions on my life. And, on the top of that list is Positano. Nestled discretely along the Almafi Coast, this picturesque fishing village cascades down the mountainside to the azure-colored sea like Bougainvillea on a trellis. It is here that I learned the true meaning of "la dolce vita". Although, it had been 10 years since my first encounter, I returned last week for a long overdue sejour. Amidst the Campanian wines, the rocky beaches and the energetic locals, I renewed my love. John Steinbeck once wrote; "Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn't quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone." To this sentiment I would like to add, Positano not only reveals its underlining beauty once you are gone but it continues to call you back long after like a Siren of the Mediterranean Sea.

A story I recently wrote for To27.com ... Once a setting for dilapidated isolation, Grey Gardens was etched into history as the home for recluse mother and daughter, “Big” & “Little” Edith Beale – aunt and first cousin to the late (and fabulous) Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. Those familiar with the story know of privileged beginnings and unfulfilled dreams. Yet this past Saturday, the East Hampton home in Georgica reclaimed its grandeur as the backdrop (dare I say focal point) of the annual School’s Out charity event benefiting The Hetrick-Martin Institute. Home of the Harvey Milk High School, Hetrick-Martin provides a safe and supportive environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning youth in which they can reach their full potential. The Harvey Milk High School, located in lower Manhattan, not only educates but ensures better futures. “School’s Out” is the opportunity for Hetrick-Martin to celebrate the milestones of the school and its studen...

For some of us, we view the media world as a constant evolution of its former self - it's a non static industry that adapts to incorporate new innovative technology. Sometimes that advancement eradicates the previous version and makes things obsolete. Records paved way for cassettes, CDs replaced cassettes and when all music became digital – well, we know what happened to music stores… However, one can efficiently coexist with the other in ways that are mutually beneficial. With the advent of the internet, blogs and social media, magazines may be viewed as archaic. In my opinion, this is actually not the reality of the publishing world. I believe it's more important now to incorporate all channels of news distribution in order to stay relevant while maintaining authenticity. Check out the publishing moguls and their support of a new Ad campaign. Very smart. Magazine Publishers of America - “Magazines, The Power of Print” Ad Campaign Posted using ShareThis