Vaughn Lowery is a native of Detroit and the youngest of five siblings, a graduate of Cornell University's ILR School. Core duties: global diversification strategy, production management, and ecological implementation. The grandson of the late civil rights defender and recipient of the presidential medal of freedom, Joseph Lowery. Lastly, a distinguished member of the Alpha Phi Alphi Fraternity, Incorporated (Alpha Chapter).
Multi-Platinum alt-pop visionary BENEE returns today with a new track titled “Underwater” off of her forthcoming sophomore album, Ur An Angel I’m Just Particles, out November 7th on Republic Records.
Listen to “Underwater” HERE & watch the lyric video HERE.
On “Underwater,” BENEE juxtaposes airy and experimental hyper-pop-inspired beats with honest admissions about the overwhelming feelings of anxiety as she candidly sings, “My head is underwater, a puddle full of my tears. I could make a river, wouldn’t even matter.” BENEE shares, “I wrote ‘Underwater’ about that disconnect between how effortless you seem and how heavy you really feel. I think a lot of people will recognise themselves in that.”
“Underwater” is the latest release off of the New Zealand-born, Los Angeles-based artist’s long-awaited sophomore album out next month, and it follows her previously released singles “Cinnamon,” “Off The Rails,” “Animal,” and “Sad Boiii.” Written and recorded over the span of the past three years, Ur An Angel I’m Just Particles features BENEE’s signature blend of creative storytelling with unique and vulnerable lyricism set to genre-bending sounds and production. The songs on the album follow BENEE’s journey of making sense of the world through music, as she absorbs the chaos and confusion of everyday life and molds it into addictive alternative pop.
She shares, “Ur An Angel I’m Just Particles is a deep dive into existential dread, where love, identity, and meaning slip through your fingers like sand. Each song grapples with the weight of existence. Feeling too small in a world too big, questioning whether connection is real or just another fleeting illusion.”
She continues, “There’s a restless urgency here, a longing to escape yet nowhere to run, as the lines blur between self-destruction and survival, euphoria and emptiness. The songs unravel like diary entries, tracing the cycles of obsession, heartbreak, and fleeting ecstasy, all while wrestling with our inner demons and the fear of disappearing into the noise. It’s an album for the sleepless, the over-thinkers, those staring into the void and wondering if it’s staring back.”
Ur An Angel I’m Just Particles Album Artwork To celebrate the album release, BENEE will perform an intimate headline show at Los Angeles’ The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever on November 7th, debuting new songs from the album for her fans for the very first time. Tickets will go on-sale today via pre-sale at 10am PST and general on-sale at 12pm PST HERE.
Earlier this summer, BENEE hit the road with Tate McRae, supporting her on the “Miss Possessive Tour” across Europe and the UK. She then recorded a cover of New Radicals’ “You Get What You Give” for the 2025 MTV VMAs last month. It was also recently announced that she’ll make her return to Laneway Festival 2026.
Once the summer residence of Anne of Austria, Queen of France—and now recognized as the Musée du Louvre, the historic apartments serve as the backdrop for the unveiling of the Spring–Summer 2026 collection.
The journey through the Queen of France’s apartment unfolds as an exploration of the genre archetypes, in which clothes speak in confidences – offering revelations of perspective and a manifesto of individuality. It is one of the House’s many journeys, each guided by the cardinal principle of carrying one’s way of being wherever the journey leads.
Scenographer and designer Marie-Anne Derville curates a modern apartment composed of furniture and artworks spanning the 18th century to today, creating an immersive portrait of enduring French taste.
Today marks the premiere of the two latest singles from Nobody Wants This Season 2: The Soundtrack, “Dancing In The Smoke” by seven-time Grammy-nominated R&B star GIVĒON, and “Melodies” by chart-topping Irish singer/songwriter Dermot Kennedy. Set for release via The Core Records in partnership with Interscope Records on October 23 (the same day as the season premiere), the soundtrack includes all-new music from a powerhouse lineup of pop superstars, country icons, alt-pop heavy-hitters, and more. Listen to “Dancing In The Smoke” HERE, check out “Melodies” HERE, and go HERE to pre-order/pre-save Nobody Wants This Season 2: The Soundtrack now.
One of the most achingly intimate moments on Nobody Wants This Season 2: The Soundtrack, “Dancing In The Smoke” brings GIVĒON’s soul-stirring baritone to a spellbinding story of ill-fated lovers who can’t keep away from each other. With production from an A-list roster of hitmakers — Cashmere Cat (SZA, The Weeknd), Jasper Harris (Doja Cat, Big Sean), Alex Goldblatt (Kehlani, Lil Nas X), and Hidde Ament (Teddy Swims, Camila Cabello) — the slow-burning track unfolds in tender melodies and dreamy doo-wop rhythms that gorgeously contrast its mood of anguished longing. Rooted in the emotionally raw songwriting first showcased on his six-times-platinum breakout hit “Heartbreak Anniversary” (a Billboard Hot 100 top 20 smash that nabbed a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song), “Dancing In The Smoke” once again proves GIVĒON’s astonishing talent for penning songs that pierce straight to the heart.
Another beautifully devastating standout from Nobody Wants This Season 2: The Soundtrack, “Melodies” by Dermot Kennedy takes the form of a stark but stunning piano ballad co-written by diamond-selling, multi-award-winning singer/songwriter Lewis Capaldi. In a perfect counterpart to “Dancing In The Smoke,” Kennedy reflects on a fast-fading romance and channels a sorrowful nostalgia for the magic of their early days together. Co-produced by Carl Falk (Ellie Goulding, 5 Seconds of Summer) and Savan Kotecha (Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande), “Melodies” ultimately arrives as an unforgettable new offering from Kennedy — a widely acclaimed artist who got his start busking on the streets of Dublin, earned the best-selling debut album in Ireland of this millennium with 2019’s Without Fear, and headlined iconic venues like New York City’s Madison Square Garden on a 2023 tour in support of his hit-packed sophomore LP Sonder.
Last month, Netflix dropped the official trailer for season two of “Nobody Wants This” featuring the first song released from the soundtrack — folk-pop singer/songwriter Cassandra Coleman’s wildly euphoric anthem “Bite My Tongue.” Stay tuned for an exclusive reveal of the full tracklist to Nobody Wants This Season 2: The Soundtrack.
Co-starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody, “Nobody Wants This” premiered in fall 2024 and quickly became one of the most talked-about shows in the streaming era, sparking widespread obsession with its binge-ready tale of interfaith romance between Joanne (a podcaster played by Bell) and Noah (a rabbi played by Brody). Along with earning a host of nominations from the Primetime Emmy Awards (including Outstanding Comedy Series) and the Golden Globe Awards, the show’s first season found Brody winning a Critics’ Choice Television Award in the category of Best Actor in a Comedy Series. In addition, season one of “Nobody Wants This” garnered a nomination for Best Music Supervision – Television at the Hollywood Music in Media Awards, thanks to a knockout soundtrack including the likes of Dua Lipa and Olivia Rodrigo. More new music from Nobody Wants This Season 2: The Soundtrack is on the way soon.
The Red Clay Strays return with a new single, “People Hatin’,” out now via RCA Records.
The band announced the track earlier this week exclusively on The Joe Rogan Experience, where they delved into its meaning and the purpose behind releasing the song in an extended conversation. Listen to the full episode HERE. The release of the song is also accompanied by a striking music video directed by Matthew Coleman. A powerful call to action, as the lyrics declare, “it is time to start to love the ones we hate.”
One of music’s fastest-rising bands, The Red Clay Strays are Brandon Coleman (lead vocals, guitar, keys), Drew Nix (electric guitar, vocals, harmonica), Zach Rishel (electric guitar), Andrew Bishop (bass), John Hall (drums), and Sevans Henderson (keys). Formed in Mobile, AL in 2016, the Strays released their debut album, Moment of Truth, in 2022, featuring the breakout single, “Wondering Why,” which propelled the band into the top 10 on Billboard’s Hot Rock & Alternative Songs Chart and inside the top 20 of the Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart.
Last year marked a record high for the group, signing to RCA Records and releasing their critically acclaimed sophomore album, Made by These Moments, in July 2024. Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Dave Cobb (Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell), Made by These Moments is filled with the band’s signature genre-blending sound, as they meld electric rock and roll with southern soul. The record marked the band’s first entry into the Billboard 200 and debuted in the top 10 of the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart, helping to earn them the win for ‘Emerging Artist of the Year’ at the 2024 Americana Honors & Awards, their first Billboard Music Award win for ‘Top Country Group,’ and the 2025 ACM Award win for ‘New Duo or Group of the Year.’ They have also garnered back-to-back CMA Award nominations for ‘Vocal Group of the Year’ for 2024 and 2025.
With magnetic performances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, CBS Saturday Morning, and NPR’s Tiny Desk, the band also released their first live album, Live At The Ryman, recorded during their three-night stint at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville as part of their sold-out 2024 These Moments Tour. The group are currently on their sold-out global Get Right Tour, making notable stops at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, two nights at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and three nights at The Amphitheater at the Wharf in their home state of Alabama. This fall, they take the tour to Europe, with performances in London, Glasgow, Paris, Amsterdam, Oslo, and more. Most recently, they were announced as performers for Stagecoach’s 2026 lineup, taking place in Indio, CA, next April.
How Spencer Waddell Trains for Armored Combat and Champions Representation
When most people think of fitness, they picture treadmills, dumbbells, or maybe a yoga mat. For Spencer Waddell, better known online as Simply Samurai, strength training comes with a blade in hand. The Nashville- and St. Louis–based swordsman, stuntman, historian, and content creator has carved out a lane where historical martial arts meet modern wellness, creating Swordsman Workout Routines that push the body as much as they honor centuries-old traditions.
His path began unexpectedly in 2008, while serving in the Air Force, when friends introduced him to German longsword fighting. That spark led to training in castles overseas, immersion in the Society for Creative Anachronism, and later a deep dive into African and Japanese martial arts. Today, Waddell moves fluidly between battlefields real and imagined—prepping for armored combat tournaments, choreographing stunts for film, and bringing audiences along through his digital content. His ambition is clear: to become the “Bruce Lee of swords,” mastering not one style but the art of being a bridge between them all.
We caught up with Waddell to talk about his unique approach to training, his philosophy on martial arts, and how swordsmanship can inspire everyday movement.
You’ve trained in castles in Europe and on U.S. tournament fields—what’s been the most surprising connection you’ve found between history and modern fitness through swordsmanship?
The most surprising connection is how timeless the movements are. When I swing a sword, I’m doing the same mechanics knights, samurai, and warriors practiced centuries ago—but those same motions translate directly into modern functional fitness. A downward cut isn’t just a strike. It’s a full-body exercise that engages core, legs, and grip. Swordsmanship proves that history already gave us the foundation for functional training; today, gyms are just rediscovering it.
You’ve described wanting to be the “Bruce Lee of swords.” What does that vision mean to you, and how does it shape the way you train and teach today?
Bruce Lee represented freedom in martial arts—he respected every tradition but wasn’t bound by any single one. To be the “Bruce Lee of swords” means honoring the lineages while innovating, blending cultures, and making swordsmanship accessible to everyone. It shapes my teaching because I don’t just want students to memorize drills—I want them to feel empowered to adapt, create, and carry swordsmanship into their lives, whether that’s fitness, performance, or personal growth.
Your Swordsman Workouts blend historical martial arts with functional training. How do they differ from a traditional gym routine, and what do people gain beyond physical strength?
Traditional gym routines isolate muscles—Swordsman Workouts connect them. Instead of bicep curls, you’re training your whole body to move as one, the way a warrior would in combat. Beyond physical strength, people build coordination, balance, timing, and focus. And there’s an undeniable confidence boost: swinging even a training blade taps into something primal. Fitness becomes more than reps—it becomes a story you step into.
You’ve studied everything from African to Japanese to European martial traditions. How does pulling from so many lineages influence your philosophy as both a swordsman and a stunt coordinator?
Each lineage carries its own wisdom. African traditions taught me rhythm and flow, Japanese arts taught me precision and discipline, and European systems taught me adaptability under pressure. When I teach or choreograph, I’m less concerned with labeling a style and more focused on asking, “What story are we telling through this movement?” Drawing from so many sources makes me versatile—I can honor each tradition while still creating something fresh, authentic, and cinematic.
For someone curious but intimidated, what’s a simple way to bring sword-inspired movement or mindset into their daily fitness routine?
Start with footwork. Practice stepping forward, backward, and side-to-side with intention, keeping your core engaged and hands raised as if you’re holding a blade. It’s a moving meditation that builds balance, awareness, and posture. Adopt the swordsman’s mindset too—treat each rep like preparing for a duel, not against someone else, but against yesterday’s version of yourself. From there, pick up a broomstick, a plastic trainer, or even a steel sword and begin adding basic striking drills. Simple downward cuts and horizontal strikes will train coordination, rhythm, and full-body strength—transforming a workout into a warrior’s practice.
The symbol of the 1990s, it elevated the concept of the super sports car thanks to its timeless design, outstanding performance, and technological innovations
In 1990, the Diablo heralded a new era for the Lamborghini brand, breaking the 325 km/h speed barrier and setting an all-time record for road cars of that period. The Diablo’s story started to take shape in 1985 with Project 132, conceived to deliver a successor to the Countach and create the fastest car in the world. The first prototypes revealed sharp, visionary lines that were later refined with the arrival of Chrysler in 1987, giving the model both harmony and a future-oriented vision. That was how the final silhouette was created: the scissor doors, muscular proportions, a striking rear design, and a passenger compartment that was not only sporty but also comfortable. The Lamborghini Diablo was unveiled in 1990 in the Principality of Monaco at the opening of the Monte Carlo Rally and produced until 2001: it became an icon worldwide and in automotive history. Today, this legend is preserved by Lamborghini Polo Storico which, through its archive, restorations and certifications, protects its authenticity.
“The Diablo isn’t just a symbol of Lamborghini’s history; it’s also a model of growing strategic importance to Polo Storico,” commented Alessandro Farmeschi, After Sales Director at Automobili Lamborghini. “In recent years, we’ve seen a significant increase in requests for certifications and restoration services for the Diablo, in the most part due to a new generation of collectors and enthusiasts who see this car as a cultural and design icon. This trend confirms the value of Polo Storico’s activities aimed at preserving the legacy of the company and its cars, at the same time creating new opportunities in the classic car segment. By sharing the Diablo’s story through the information and documents in our archive, we strengthen the bond with our customers and enthusiasts, while reaffirming the importance and lasting value of this model.”
Even the name speaks of a legend: Diablo, named in honor of the legendary fighting bull of the same name which, in 1869 fought for hours against the matador José de Lara, known as “El Chicorro”. Its debut was an immediate commercial success, with the first orders coming in even before the presentation of the car, in a world before previews on social media and online.
With its 5.7-liter V12 engine, delivering 492 CV and 580 Nm torque, the Diablo could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in around 4.5 seconds, establishing a new speed record for road cars, reaching 337 km/h on the Nardò circuit. The tubular frame, aluminum and steel body with carbon fiber inserts—used for the first time on a production car—together with the sophisticated suspension gave the Diablo unprecedented driving dynamics. For the first time, a Lamborghini combined outstanding performance and innovative comfort, with adjustable seats, electric windows, and Alpine stereo system—delivering luxury, design, and power without compromise.
Over the eleven years of production, Diablo evolved into various versions. In 1993, the VT model introduced all-wheel-drive for the first time on a Lamborghini super sports car, which would become a typical feature of all the V12 engines, guaranteeing greater stability and driving safety. In the same year, the SE30 model celebrated the company’s 30th anniversary with an engine boosted to 525 CV, and pushed up to 596 CV in the Jota version, while the 1995 VT Roadster paved the way to the Lamborghini open-top V12 cars.
In 1998, with the acquisition of Lamborghini by Audi, the Diablo underwent a significant restyling: this marked the arrival of fixed headlights instead of traditional pop-ups, ABS, and the V12 with displacement increased to 6 liters. This was the start of a new stylistic and engineering phase for Lamborghini. The SV epitomized the ultimate expression of performance: the 1999 GT took the V12 to 575 CV, enabling it to reach a top speed of 338 km/h, while the VT 6.0 and 6.0 SE represented the final evolution with the design by Luc Donckerwolke, the company’s first chief designer under Audi’s ownership. At the same time, the Diablo opened doors to official competitions: 1996 saw the launch of the Super Sport Trophy one-make championship for the Diablo SV-R, with 32 units produced, marking the first racing program directly linked to the brand. From this experience came two ultra-rare Diablo GT1 Stradale prototypes, real racing testbeds with 655 CV, as well as the Diablo GT-R: the track version of the GT, built in 40+1 units and competing both in the Japanese JGTC championship and in various European GT series.
The Diablo’s influence extended beyond the road. With a constant presence in movies, video games, and TV programs, it captivated Hollywood in leading roles: from the red model driven by Jim Carrey in Dumb and Dumber (1994), to the appearances in Exit Wounds (2001), and in Die Another Day (2002), to the TV series Smallville, Nip/Tuck, and Blue Mountain State. It has been an icon in the video games of the Need for Speed franchise since the 1990s, while in a famous 1996 commercial it appears alongside top model Cindy Crawford. It’s celebrated in music too: in Jamiroquai’s music video for Cosmic Girl it became a pop symbol for an entire generation. Celebrities such as Jay Leno, Mike Tyson, Dennis Rodman, Jay Kay, Rod Stewart, Nicolas Cage, Troy Corser, and Mario Andretti chose it, confirming it as a global status symbol and dream car.
With over 60 available colors, 40 of which could be customized, this Lamborghini super sports car preempted the “Ad Personam” philosophy. Red was the most popular color, with over 550 units. With 2,903 units produced, the Diablo not only set an all-time sales record for Lamborghini up to 2001, but also contributed to strengthening the brand’s global reputation, opening the doors to a new era of international growth.
In 2023, at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, a 1994 Diablo SE30 earned a place on the podium, confirming its timeless appeal. The Diablo’s value is constantly rising, particularly the special editions and more customized versions. These feature in the strong upward trend in requests to Lamborghini Polo Storico for restorations and certificates of authenticity, as well as increased demand and value at international auctions.
When production ended in 2001, the Diablo didn’t close a cycle; it ushered in a new era. As well as redefining the concept of the super sports car, it paved the way for all subsequent Lamborghini models. Today, thanks to the work of Lamborghini Polo Storico and the rising interest of collectors, the Diablo increasingly plays a leading role in the dialog between past and future. Thirty-five years on from its debut, it is still a symbol of extreme performance, timeless style, and technical innovation. A legacy that belongs to all Lamborghini enthusiasts.
Meeting overwhelming demand for music from audiences everywhere, East Atlanta rapper Hunxho proudly presents his anxiously awaited new album, For Her 2, out now via 300 Entertainment. Listen HERE.
As always, the Gold-selling rising star has not only met expectations, but he has also confidently exceeded them. Ever-prolific and locked into a creative zone, he has delivered a robust 16-track body of work. From setting the tone with “Damn” to closing strong with the slick and stunning “Too Easy,” the album showcases the breadth of Hunxho’s unmatched signature style. For Her 2 reaches one of many highpoints with the single “If Only” featuring 21 Savage. Of course, the song represents a reunion for these two Atlanta powerhouses following their 2022 fan favorite collab on Hunxho’s “Let’s Get It (Remix)”— which clocked over 100 million streams and went Gold.
Just last week, Hunxho made an appearance on Noochies’ “Live From The Front Porch.” Accompanied by a full band and performing on an actual front porch, he delivered emotionally charged renditions of “Interlude” and “By Tomorrow” off For Her as well as playing For Her 2’s “Damn” and “Intimate Relationships” for the very first time live. Watch HERE.
Hunxho dropped the original For Her back in 2023, and it has since become a calling card for the rapper. Of course, it houses his breakout RIAA Gold-certified single “Your Friends,” with other notable mentions such as By Tomorrow, it marked a turning point in his career and fueled his steady rise, and the second installment will undoubtedly add even more fuel to the fire this year.
Hunxho, fresh off consistent releases like Thank God and For Us—which helped push his total streams past 1 billion—shows no signs of slowing down. From his sold-out “One Night Only” Tour, he continues to prove himself as one of hip-hop’s most important emerging voices, steadily cementing his place in the culture through authenticity, relentless work ethic, and a growing catalog that resonates worldwide.
The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering represents an experience unlike any other in the automotive world. Set amidst the natural beauty of the Carmel Valley and the Santa Lucia Range’s stunning peaks, the rarest of automobiles act as a draw for esteemed collectors and enthusiasts from around the world. A venue mirrored effortlessly by the first creation from the Programme Solitaire – a highly bespoke new offering from Bugatti, celebrating the beauty to be found in peerless personalization and craftsmanship.
The Brouillard is set to be unveiled today to the expectant guests on the lawns of Quail Lodge, the one-of-one vehicle making its first-ever global appearance. To those who set eyes on the beauty of its form, its DNA becomes immediately clear: an unbridled celebration of the art of coachbuilding, and Bugatti’s mastery of creating unique, hand-crafted automobiles since the marque’s founding 116 years ago.
In every respect, from its majestic silhouette to its exquisitely curated cockpit, the Brouillard represents a tribute to one of Ettore Bugatti’s dearest passions: equestrianism. Lovingly owned and admired by Bugatti’s founder, Brouillard was a majestic white and gray thoroughbred, evoking the sense of speed, beauty, and unmatched elegance that came to define each vehicle that left the grounds of the Château Saint Jean.
It is deeply personal and unique anecdotes such as these that fuel the creativity driving the Programme Solitaire. Taking customization beyond the already highly bespoke commissions of the Sur Mesure offering, the Programme Solitaire draws rich inspiration from the storied tradition of early-20th century coachbuilding, which yielded a host of icons through Bugatti’s history – including the Galibier, Stelvio, Ventoux, and Atalante versions of the original Type 57 chassis.
In the same vein, the Brouillard fuses the latest iteration of Bugatti’s technology, continuously perfected over the past 20 years, with an unprecedented design concept. With the brand’s inimitable W16, 1,600 PS quad-turbocharged engine at its core, the Brouillard complements decades of engineering heritage with an all-new Coupé profile; an exterior design optimized in a carefully considered balance of form and function, from the elegantly sculpted air intakes and sweeping roofline, to the bespoke ducktail rear wing.
Artistry of a different kind defines the interior of the hypercar, with the richness of its quality evident in every detail. Complementing a hand-crafted sculpture of Brouillard in the gear selector, embroidered horse motifs adorn the door panels and back seats – both of which come together in a weave of custom-crafted, tartan fabrics sourced from Paris. In the spirit of the City of Light, a rich green-tinted carbon weave pairs elegantly with the shine of aluminum detailing, with a crystal-clear glass roof delivering an uplifting sense of space and cathedral-esque grandeur.
In each facet of its concept, the Brouillard evokes automotive haute couture at the highest level – an inspiring symbol of the power of exceptional creativity, and of respect for a timeless discipline.The Brouillard will make its global physical debut at the Quail today, Friday August 14th, exhibited at the prestigious event before it moves to an exclusive showcase in the private Le Domaine Bugatti on Saturday and Sunday.
FreeRent LA takes flight with the inaugural ‘Wings of Gratitude’ Charity Gala at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills
On Saturday, September 27th, FreeRent LA hosted its inaugural gala, ‘Wings of Gratitude: A Night FreeRent LA Takes Flight,’ at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills. The venue brought together local leaders, advocates, and donors to raise awareness and resources for hard-working families in need. Attendees rallied in support of FreeRent LA’s commitment to offering up to a year of rental assistance and wraparound services that provide a struggling household pathways toward long-term stability and housing security.
The esteemed guests had a splendid evening. They indulged in handcrafted cocktails, specialty hors d’oeuvres, live entertainment, and a real-time auction led by Mellisa Nielsen of Charity Angels. While learning about FreeRent LA’s mission statement and current directives, participants were informed about their sister chapter in Atlanta, FreeRent ATL.
FreeRent LA is part of the national FreeRent initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting communities that contain working households that experience unexpected financial crises, such as eviction and housing instability.
Trixy Castro, CJ Russell, NBA Legend Dominique Wilkins, Jedidia Wilkins, Dr. Jacob Rastegar, Jasmine Rastegar, Terri Ewing, Daniel Dorfman, Philippe Haddad, Mellisa Nielson
VIPs + influencers:
Holly Robinson Peete, Erin Ziering, MMA Fighter Bear Fiorda, Martin Rodriguez, Kate Linder, Patrika Darbo, Max Ehrich, Ashley Paul, Eve Richards, Kennedy Garcia, Dr. Robert Dorfman, Blanca Blanco, Tobie Windham, Merick McCartha, Dustin Quick, Valeria Maldonado, Angelique Bate, Latasha Pippen, Jasmine Davis, Brenda Mejia, Lady Summer Helene, Young Retro, Jenna Hill, Faith Barrett, Anthony Fernandez, Paige Jenna, Joel Diamond, Natalie Mejia, Bernard Gulla, John Buyers, Vanessa Buyers, Dr. Bill Dorfman, Christopher Bates, Crystal Rivers, Yan Tual, Lauren Mathis, Medi Em, Monalisa Okojie, Charisse Mannolini, Amy Jones, Isani Griffith, William Clevinger, Tommy Bina, Michael Von, Bryan James, Cassi Castro, Adam Tsehkman, Alice Amter
EVENT SERIES IN HONOR OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
‘This month reminds me of the mother and brave best friend my family lost to breast cancer.’—Vaughn Lowery
WHO/WHAT: On Wednesday, October 1st, the Miami Design District (MDD) will proudly kick off the 10th annual Fashion Strikes Cancerevent series, a month-long celebration dedicated to supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).
As the preeminent breast cancer organization in the United States, BCRF’s mission serves to end breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research. Conceived by fashion visionary, stylist, and courageous breast cancer survivor, Angeles Almuna, Fashion Strikes Cancer was founded with a mission to offer solace and inspiration to those enduring, who have persevered, or who have sadly lost loved ones to breast cancer. This year’s events will honor Christine Handy.
Christine is an international print and runway model and the author of Walk Beside Me, a fictional depiction of her own life. She became a keynote speaker after the book was published in 2016 and is also a mentor, breast cancer advocate, public figure, social media influencer, nationally recognized humanitarian, and mother of two sons. Christine also proudly serves on the boards of three nonprofit organizations: People of Purpose, the Break Free Foundation, and the Wonder Women Initiative. Her first novel was adapted into a film, Hello Beautiful, set to be released this fall.
Throughout October, MDD will host a series of initiatives across the neighborhood in support of BCRF. The festivities begin on October 1st with a Pink Dome Lighting Ceremony featuring a special performance by Florida Grand Opera—the oldest arts institution in the state—presented in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month as part of its Wellness and Resilience Program. More than an artistic experience, this performance is a gift of healing and connection, harnessing the transformative power of the human voice to uplift, inspire, and unite communities in a shared message of hope and strength.
Additional events include the Annual Pink Yoga class on October 14th led by Angeles Almuna and Dawn Feinberg, founder of Ahana Yoga, with music by DJ Drez. The series of events culminates on October 25th with the Annual Fashion Presentation and Cocktail Reception in collaboration with a dynamic lineup of stylists and designers, including Danny Santiago, Juan Castillo, Lisu Vega, Sigal Cohen, and Valeria Krasavina.
Lastly, Select MDD retailers will also participate with initiatives donating proceeds to BCRF.
A detailed program schedule of events and initiatives will be shared as the month progresses. To learn more, donate, or reserve your spot, please visit thislink.
