All Columns in Alphabetical Order


Wednesday, December 3, 2025

On Instagram, by Tom Wolfe

“Instagram activism: How much of all this is about caring for the oppressed, and how much is about the image of you caring about the oppressed?”

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#CulturedPeachy @MorganLibrary #ItalyPeachy GIOVANNI BELLINI’S FAMED PAINTING OF THE DEAD CHRIST FROM THE MUSEO DELLA CITTÀ IN RIMINI, ITALY, MAKES U.S. DEBUT AT THE MORGAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM

From January 15 through April 19, 2026, the Morgan Library & Museum will display the painting Pietà (also known as Dead Christ Supported by Angels) (ca. 1470) by Giovanni Bellini (1424/26–1516), bringing this early Renaissance masterpiece to the United States for the first time. The exceptional loan of this masterwork from the Museo della Città in Rimini, Italy, follows a comprehensive conservation treatment made possible by Venetian Heritage, Inc. The painting will be on view in J. Pierpont Morgan’s study within the Morgan’s historic library, alongside some of the finest Renaissance art collected by Morgan himself, including paintings by Hans Memling and Perugino and sculptures by Antonio Rossellino.

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On support after 9/11, by Queen Elizabeth II

"Grief is the price we pay for love."
-Queen Elizabeth II

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#PilotPeachy #FrancePeachy Nantes Airport Implements AirportLabs' Community App to Support Strategic APOC Vision

Nantes Atlantique Airport, operated by VINCI Airports, has implemented the Airport Community App (ACA), a mobile-first platform, across its entire campus workforce. Following successful deployments at fellow airports in the VINCI Airports' network including Lyon Airport, London Gatwick, and ANA (Aeroportos de Portugal), this strategic move establishes a unified digital ecosystem, enhancing collaboration and operational awareness for all airport staff.


Building on the successful adoption by core VINCI teams and proven results across the VINCI Airports network, Nantes Atlantique Airport has now expanded access to its full workforce, including partners and third-party personnel. This campus-wide deployment is a key step toward realizing the airport's vision for an advanced Airport Operations Center (APOC), ensuring all airport staff have the same level of operational awareness, collaboration capabilities, and data access that other airports operated by VINCI Airports have achieved.


A Unified Platform for a Connected Workforce


Nantes Airport has deployed the AirportLabs Community App to digitize its workforce and power its Airport Operations Centre (APOC). By connecting all staff in one mobile hub, the airport ensures real-time data flow from the tarmac to the control room, boosting efficiency and collaboration.

The Airport Community App is a purpose-built, cloud-based mobile platform designed to address a core challenge in aviation: fragmented communication. The app unifies workflows across all airport areas, from the airfield to the terminal, and centralizes essential functions like live operational insights, task management, real-time communication, and incident reporting. By putting these tools directly in the hands of staff, the platform helps teams act faster and work together seamlessly, coordinating their response to unexpected events from a single, intuitive interface.

Strategic Digital Foundation for APOC Implementation

The Airport Community App's deployment at Nantes Airport provides the essential technology foundation for the facility's APOC initiative. This strategic implementation, which began with operational teams before expanding campus-wide, connects staff through a unified digital platform. This approach revolutionises airport operations coordination and enhances real-time situational awareness across all functions, establishing the collaborative infrastructure necessary for advanced operational management.

The campus-wide availability enables full operational awareness and collaboration across previously isolated functional areas, unlocking the complete value proposition essential for effective APOC implementation.

A Proven Tool for a Global Network

Nantes Atlantique Airport joins a trusted global network of over 85+ international airports utilizing the Airport Community App. The platform, now in its tenth year, serves over two million unique monthly users. It has consistently demonstrated its ability to enhance crisis response and boost workforce effectiveness across diverse airport environments worldwide.

The deployment at Nantes Airport illustrates how modern aviation technology can serve as the operational backbone for an airport, transforming communication from a simple enhancement into a core component of a unified and responsive ecosystem.

About AirportLabs

A global leader in aviation technology, delivers integrated, cloud-native tools that make airport operations simple. With over a decade of proven results and deployments at 85+ airports - including some of the world's busiest international hubs - AirportLabs helps operational teams work as one, with shared, real-time insight. By connecting critical systems and simplifying complex data instead of adding complexity, AirportLabs enables airports, airlines, and ground handlers to increase efficiency, strengthen resilience, and deliver a smoother passenger experience.

About VINCI Airports

VINCI Airports, as the leading private airport operator in the world, manages the development and operation of more than 70 airports located in 14 countries. VINCI Airports draws on its expertise as a comprehensive integrator to develop, finance, build and operate airports, leveraging its investment capability and know-how to optimise operational performance and modernise infrastructure while bringing about their environmental transition. In 2016, VINCI Airports became the first airport operator to commit to an international environmental strategy, setting itself the aim of reaching zero net emissions (scope 1 and 2) across the network by 2050 while supporting the territories' local climate transition.

About Nantes Atlantique Airport

Nantes Atlantique Airport, operated by VINCI Airports, is the largest airport in Western France, welcoming around 7 million passengers annually. As an international hub serving Nantes and its surrounding region near the Atlantic coast, the airport offers a wide range of over 90 destinations across 26 countries, including from Europe, North America, and North Africa. More than 80 companies operate at Nantes Atlantique Airport, employing approximately 3,000 people. In line with VINCI Airports' environmental strategy, the airport has set a goal to achieve net zero emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 2030.

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Dining out in 2026: Brits Embrace Group Gatherings, Happy Hour and Retro Classics

OpenTable reveals its annual Top 100 Restaurants in the UK for 2025, alongside its key 2026 dining trends

OpenTable, a global leader in restaurant technology, has revealed its annual Top 100 Restaurants in the UK list alongside its 2026 dining trends. With dining in the UK up 4% year-over-year (YoY) in 2025,* and Brits set to dine out on average six times a month in 2026,** dining out is on the menu for the year ahead and restaurants are front and centre. Gen Z are particularly enthusiastic, planning to dine out nine times a month, second only to Millennials at ten.**

The dining trends that shaped 2025 and what's on the menu for 2026, based on OpenTable data and consumer research:

The more the merrier: Almost half of diners (44%) say they'd prefer eating with others over going solo in 2026.** Group dining also grew by 5% in 2025 YoY,* with the most popular days for group dining on Mother's Day weekend and major sporting events, including rugby matches.* Looking ahead, the appetite for togetherness shows no sign of slowing down, with more than a third (36%) of Brits wanting to see more group and private dining in 2026.** OpenTable's new private and group dining marketplace is helping to make those shared moments even easier to plan and enjoy.

Happy hour and strategic spenders: Brits are also adjusting how and when they dine. In 2025, dining between 4pm–5pm rose by 6% YoY.* When it comes to spending, nearly half (49%) of Brits plan to spend more on dining out in 2026 vs 2025, rising to 70% of Gen Z and Millennials.** Despite this, 54% of Brits want to see more happy hours and value promotions in 2026.**

"Dining has become about far more than what's on the plate this year. It's about connection and creating unforgettable moments together, with new research showing that 79% of Brits say eating out helps them feel more connected to others,**" said Sasha Shaker, Senior Director at OpenTable in the UK and Ireland. "With Brits set to dine out six times a month on average in 2026, we're confident that restaurants will remain at the heart of the UK's social scene in the year ahead.**"

Bold flavours and retro favourites: When it comes to taste, 2026 is shaping up to be a year that blends global cuisines with nostalgia. Mediterranean (+35%), Greek (+27%) and Contemporary Asian (+21%) cuisines saw the biggest YoY dining increases in 2025, reflecting a growing appetite for bold, vibrant flavours.* However, nostalgia is also making a comeback, with Gen Z diners championing retro comfort classics like Bangers and Mash and Prawn Cocktail as dishes they'd love to see on menus of restaurants in 2026.**

One of the most surprising food trends for next year? Sharing plates are becoming less popular as 56% of Brits prefer individual servings. Brits expect to see fried chicken, gourmet burgers, protein-packed dishes, and espresso-based drinks taking centre stage in 2026.**

Top 100 Restaurants in the UK for 2025 list

OpenTable's Top 100 Restaurants in the UK 2025 list is here to inspire diners where to eat next and to highlight industry dining trends. The list is compiled by analysing more than 780,000 diner reviews, ratings, reservation demand and percentage of five-star reviews among other factors,*** featuring a list of restaurants perfect for any occasion.

Sasha said: "From exciting new names like Nina in London to much-loved local favourites such as Opheem in Birmingham and Higher Ground in Manchester, the list celebrates the fantastic spots that the UK has to offer. Whether diners are after a happy hour menu, a certain cuisine type or spot for group dining, there's a place to match every taste and occasion."

The complete Top 100 Restaurants in the UK for 2025 list can be found here as well as below (listed in alphabetical order by area):


Bath/Somerset The Olive Tree


Birmingham/West MidlandsOpheem



Cornwall Narla

Edinburgh/MidlothianLittle Capo


Gloucestershire/WiltshireThe Woozy Pig



LincolnshireOle Ole Tapas


Manchester/Greater Manchester BAR SAN JUAN

Newcastle and Northumberland 21

Northampton/NorthamptonshireEmber

Oxford/OxfordshireNo1 Ship Street



StaffordshireLowe's




West SussexLa Follia

YorkshireBavette-Leeds

NOTES TO EDITORS

*OpenTable data: OpenTable looked at the number of seated diners per party size, time slot and cuisines from online reservations for all active restaurants on the OpenTable platform in the UK from 1st January - 31st August, 2025 and compared it to the corresponding time period in 2024 (3rd January - 1st September).

**Consumer Research Methodology: An online survey was conducted by WALR among 2005 UK respondents, with quotas weighted for major cities. Fieldwork took place between September 3rd - September 9th 2025. Data has been collected adhering to MRS (Market Research Society) and ESOMAR guidelines to ensure ethical and accurate data collection.

*** The Top 100 Restaurants Methodology: OpenTable's Top 100 Restaurants in the UK for 2025 list is generated from over 780,000 reviews from verified OpenTable diner and dining metrics from September 1, 2024 to August 31, 2025. Restaurants with a minimum threshold of diner reviews were considered and evaluated by a compilation of unique data points, including diner ratings, the percentage of five star reviews, the number of alerts set, the percentage of reservations made in advance, percentage of capacity and direct searches. Metrics were weighted to comprise an overall score, used to rank the list. The resulting list appears A-Z, not in ranked order.

About OpenTable:

OpenTable, a global leader in restaurant tech and part of Booking Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG), helps more than 60,000 restaurants worldwide fill 1.9 billion seats a year. OpenTable's world-class technology empowers restaurants to focus on what matters most – their team, their guests, and their bottom line – while enabling diners to discover and book the perfect restaurant for every occasion.

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#LaudableLooks #ShannaDeegan Professionally Stunning in Classy Floral

 

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#ChristmasPeachy Survey: Shoppers Choose Real Christmas Trees for the Scent, the Experience, and the Joy

A new survey1 from the Real Christmas Tree Board unwraps what inspires people to choose a real Christmas tree and what "newcomers" to the magic of a real Christmas tree – as well as returning buyers – can expect as they bring one home this holiday season.

"This year's survey shows that people treasure the unmistakable scent and the entire experience that comes with a real Christmas tree," said Marsha Gray, executive director of the Real Christmas Tree Board. "Whether it's a cherished tradition or you're eager to try something new, shoppers can look forward to the delight of finding their perfect real Christmas tree."

Scent and experience bring joy

In this year's survey, 85% of respondents indicate that real Christmas trees bring joy to everyone
who sees and smells them. In fact, the scent of a real Christmas tree tops the list as a reason to choose the real thing this year. Unified by the season-defining scent of Christmas trees, the majority of survey respondents indicate the scent of a real Christmas tree makes their home feel festive (89%), enhances their holiday experience (85%) and is relaxing (84%).

Plus, a real Christmas tree is more than just a decoration. It's an opportunity to have an experience with loved ones. In fact, respondents ranked "making memories with my family" as the second most appealing reason to have a real Christmas tree, right after scent.

As always, there's a real Christmas tree for everyone who wants one

Last year, 98% of survey respondents found a tree they loved, and 91% reported no problem locating a place nearby to purchase their tree.2 Consumers can expect plenty of choices this year as well.

Additionally, according to the board's grower survey released last month3, 84% of growers said they do not plan to raise wholesale prices, including those who may lower them. While the price that a consumer will pay varies and is set by retailers, 90% of respondents who purchased a real Christmas tree last year said the price they paid was worth it.2

Gray is thrilled that shoppers continue to have a great retail experience, adding: "Given the strong supply, and many convenient locations to shop, it's a wonderful time to make a real Christmas tree part of your family's holiday tradition."

The joy is worth the switch

Those considering a real Christmas tree for the first time this year can be encouraged by the positively twinkling survey responses from those who made the switch last year.

Nearly all who switched said they enjoyed the experience, and almost nine in 10 wished they had made the switch to a real Christmas tree sooner. In addition, 90% said they hope their children will continue to experience the joy of having a real tree for years to come.

As for what's motivating first-time buyers this year, the top reasons include wanting to try something different (42%), the desire to create a more authentic holiday experience (37%), and real trees providing a unique scent that they enjoy (36%).

The switch is safe for the environment

Just like pumpkins for Halloween, real Christmas trees are grown to be harvested, and they're 100% recyclable and biodegradable.

"Those who are new to real Christmas trees can be assured that they are a sustainable crop, backed by generations of committed farmers," said Gray. "Growers are stewards of their land, and for every tree harvested, they plant at least one new tree."

Convenient ways to shop and learn more

Real Christmas trees are available nationwide at choose-and-cut farms, seasonal lots, garden centers, home improvement stores, and other local retailers. Shoppers are encouraged to check in advance with their preferred retailer for hours, pricing, and tree species availability. They can start their search by visiting RealChristmasTrees.com for a special retail locator, a guide to the different kinds of real Christmas trees, care tips, and more.

SURVEY METHODOLOGY

1 About the 2025 Pre-Season Consumer Survey: TRUE Global Intelligence (TGI), the in-house research practice of FleishmanHillard, fielded a survey of 1,500 Americans adults ages 21 to 54 years. All survey respondents either celebrate/observe Christmas or display a Christmas tree. Respondents were required to either decide or share in the decision of whether and what kind of Christmas tree to put up in their home each year or influence their home's decisionmaker. The survey was fielded August 19, 2025, to September 2, 2025. The survey has a margin of error of ±2.5% and higher for subgroups.

2 About the Post-Season Consumer Survey: TRUE Global Intelligence (TGI), the in-house research practice of FleishmanHillard, fielded a survey of 1,500 Americans adults ages 21 to 54 years. All survey respondents either celebrate/observe Christmas or display a Christmas tree. Respondents were required to either decide or share in the decision of whether and what kind of Christmas tree to put up in their home each year or influence their home's decisionmaker. The survey was fielded from December 21, 2024 to December 30, 2024. The survey has a margin of error of ±2.5% and higher for subgroups.

3 About the Grower Survey: The Real Christmas Tree Board, in conjunction with FleishmanHillard, fielded a survey of 43 wholesale growers of real Christmas trees across the U.S. Each of the responding growers conducts business in one or more of the following regions: Northwest, West, Southwest, Mid-West, Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southeast. Combined, the respondents supply half-to-two-thirds of the country's real Christmas trees. The survey was fielded in August 2025.

KNOW YOUR SOURCES

TRUST THOSE WHO GROW AND KNOW

The Real Christmas Tree Board (RCTB) is the media's expert resource for insights about farm-grown Christmas trees. Chartered in 2015 as the Christmas Tree Promotion Board and renamed in 2022, it is a national research and promotion program whose mission is to share the benefits of fresh Christmas trees with consumers through promotion and public relations, while engaging in research to better serve customers and growers. The USDA provides oversight of the RCTB to ensure transparency, accuracy, and fairness in its communications. The RCTB provides the media and public with accurate information, added insights, and the latest news and inspiration for the season. It represents real Christmas trees sold in the United States and is supported through annual assessments paid by any business growing or importing 500 or more real Christmas trees. This press release was developed and distributed by the RCTB. Search "Real Christmas Tree Board" online and visit RealChristmasTreeBoard.com.

National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA), founded in 1955, is the national trade association and advocacy organization for the farm-grown Christmas tree industry, leading its public policy/governmental affairs and serving as the "voice of the industry." NCTA represents hundreds of active member farms, 38 state and regional associations, and thousands of affiliated businesses that grow and sell Christmas trees or provide related services. Each year since 1966, an NCTA member has presented the official White House Christmas tree to the First Lady, which is displayed in the Blue Room. NCTA is also a trusted media resource on farm-grown Christmas trees.

Please note …

American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) does not represent real Christmas trees or growers. It is a 501(c)(3) corporation established in 2009 and has no known members representing the real Christmas tree industry. Thomas Harman4 is CEO of ACTA and is also the founder and CEO of Balsam Hill, a seller of artificial Christmas trees.5 The majority of artificial Christmas trees are manufactured overseas.6

6 Data pulled from the U.S. Census Bureau's International Trade in Goods and Services report https://usatrade.census.gov

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#LaudableLooks #MendyAmaral is in the Perfect Holiday Spirit in Timeless Classy Plaid

 

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The 41st Annual Imagine Benefit, Built on the Legacy of the Rita Hayworth Gala, Raises $1.3 Million to Support the Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association celebrated its esteemed Imagine Benefit, built on the legacy of the Rita Hayworth Gala, on Oct. 22 at the iconic Plaza Hotel in New York City. Founded by Princess Yasmin Aga Khan in honor of her mother, Hollywood icon Rita Hayworth, the event raised over $1.3 million to support the Association's mission by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. This year's event brings the Gala's lifetime fundraising total to more than $91 million since its inception in 1984.


This year's event honored Peter Thomas Roth with the Rita Hayworth Award for his unwavering commitment to the Imagine Benefit and the Alzheimer's Association. For more than two decades, Roth has helped raise awareness and funds for the event. Roth ended his remarks with a call to action, "Let's keep fighting. Let's keep laughing. And let's keep showing up. Until the only thing we forget is what it felt like to lose someone to this disease."



Woven throughout the evening, renowned mentalist Christophe Fox captivated guests with his awe-inspiring talents. His three-part set sparked astonishment and amazement, creating an engaging environment underscoring this year's theme "Magic of the Mind." With each performance, Fox tested the audience's minds with his unique ability to connect with the room, drawing gasps and applause as he reinforced the spirit of inspiration and support that defined the event.

In a heartfelt mission moment, Tony Award-winning director Rachel Chavkin (Hadestown) and husband Jake Heinrichs shared his family's journey with a rare gene mutation that causes inherited Alzheimer's. The couple highlighted the power of scientific progress in studies such as DIAN-TU, of which Heinrichs is a participant, and the hope this progress brings to families facing the disease.

"We are grateful to the Alzheimer's Association for its work on behalf of families like ours," said Chavkin and Heinrichs. "Please continue investing in research. Alzheimer's knows no political, economic, or geographic boundaries. Research is the difference between which children will grow up with a parent, aunt, uncle, grandparent — or without them."

Entertainment provided by the iconic Cafe Wha? UNLIMTD Band kept the spirit of celebration alive throughout the event. The energy of the evening was further elevated by the live auction featuring items donated by Wayne Brady, Exclusive Resorts, Hunt Slonem, and more.

"My journey to end Alzheimer's began in 1981, when my mother, Rita Hayworth was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's. Overnight, I became a caregiver at 32 years old, and soon after, this cause became my life's calling," said Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, founder and honorary chair of the Imagine Benefit, built on the legacy of the Rita Hayworth Gala. "Tonight, we honor my dear friend Peter Thomas Roth for his unwavering commitment to this event for more than two decades. Thanks to him — and to our dedicated chairs, committee, sponsors, donors, and supporters — we reach new heights year after year. One day, with the work done by the Alzheimer's Association, we won't have to imagine a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. We will live it."

The Imagine Benefit flourished thanks to the guidance of a remarkable leadership team including event chairs Joseph Boitano, Brooke and Oliver Kennan, and vice chairs Karim Barrada, Jaqui Lividini, Sarah Tam Marin, Alexis Bryan Morgan, Suzanne Silverstein, and Lily Johnson White. Next Generation vice chairs, Randy and Paula Harris, along with Katherine Schultz, played pivotal roles in engaging the next generation to join the fight against Alzheimer's and dementia.

Additional Benefit Committee members included Chele Chiavacci Farley, Julie Fishman, Emily and Jon Gelb, Sultan Hirji, David Hyde Pierce and Brian Hargrove, Karyn Kornfeld and Steven Kobre, Louise and Stephen Kornfeld, Jessica Leonard, Robin and Roger Meltzer, Sharon Bush and Bob Murray, Zahra Rahman, Peter Thomas Roth, Michelle Rubel, Nicole Sexton, Martha Webster, and Jennifer and Lonnie Wollin.

Distinguished guests from the worlds of art, fashion, society, and media added to the event's elegance and prestige, included Huma Abedin, Lorenz Baumer, Yasmina and Luca Bernasconi, Katherine Gage Bouloud, Grace Cayre, Marilyn Chinitz, Zandy Forbes, Peter Gallagher and Paula Harwood, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Kate Davidson Hudson, Nabila Khashoggi, Jess King, Elizabeth Kurpis, Becky Malinsky, Meredith and Seth Marks, Elizabeth Meigher, Allie Michler Kopelman, Gillian and Sylvester Miniter, Josie Natori, Dalia Oberlander, Allie Provost, Louise Roe, Carole Roth, Brendan Roth, Ryan Roth, Nancy Sambuco, Danielle Sepsy, Hunt Slonem, Peter Som, Kari Tiedemann, Lis Waterman, Alex Wong, Jason Wu, Alexander Yulish, and more.

The Imagine Benefit was generously underwritten by Rolex Watch USA. Aphrodise donated its refreshing and delightful sparkling Rosé and Miss Maude Chocolates treated guests to its signature Theater Bar.

Funds raised at the Imagine Benefit support the Alzheimer's Association's mission to accelerate global research, drive risk reduction and early detection, maximize quality care and support, and the local efforts of its New York City Chapter. More than 426,000 New Yorkers are living with Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, more than 656,000 in New York provide unpaid care to someone living with the disease.

To donate, visit NYCImagine25.givesmart.com. For information and resources, visit the Alzheimer's Association website at alz.org or call its free 24/7 Helpline at 1.800.272.3900.

About the Alzheimer's Association®
The Alzheimer's Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.

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Tuesday, December 2, 2025

#WhomYouKnowTopTen by @ManhattanPeachy #PeachyDeegan #December2025

-in no certain order-

The Snowflake on 57th and 5th (biggest chandelier in the world we believe!)









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#NHLPeachy @NHL NHL Morning Skate – Dec. 2, 2025 Our Coverage Sponsored by Cosmopolitan Dental, Official Dentist of Whom You Know @GaroNazarianDDS #cosmopolitandental #loveyoursmile

The Best Dentist in Manhattan & Official Dentist of Whom You Know:




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(212) 683-1960

Dr. Garo Nazarian is a Mover and Shaker, and was the first featured: http://www.whomyouknow.com/2009/01/movers-and-shakers-dr-garo-nazarian-of.html

Dr. Nazarian, a graduate of Boston College and Columbia Dental School, opened Cosmopolitan Dental in 2006 and has grown in practice into one of the top cosmetic and dental implant practices in New York City. Cosmopolitan Dental strives to surpass all patients' expectations by catering to your dental needs while providing the utmost professional results. Cosmopolitan Dental has been recognized by America's Top Dentists and has earned both the Patients' choice award and the Doctors' choice award. Dr. Garo Nazarian is a proud member of the New York State Dental Association, New York County Dental Society and the American Dental Association. Cosmopolitan Dental loves to make you smile!

***
* Sidney Crosby scored twice to climb several NHL lists as the Penguins defeated the state-rival Flyers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Monday.

* Macklin Celebrini became one of only four teenagers in NHL history to reach the 40-point mark in a season in 27 games or fewer as the Sharks skated to victory against the Mammoth.

* The Panthers and Maple Leafs clash for the first time since Game 7 of the 2025 Second Round as part of an ESPN+ doubleheader during Tuesday’s 10-game slate.

CROSBY CLIMBS MORE ALL-TIME LISTS WITH TWO-GOAL OUTING IN WIN

Sidney Crosby (2-0—2) opened the scoring in Philadelphia and later added another – the game winner – to become the 14th player in NHL history with 300 career road goals as the Penguins skated to victory over their state rival. The Pittsburgh captain is now eight points shy of overtaking Mario Lemieux (1,723) for eighth on the NHL’s all-time list.


* Crosby tied Gordie Howe (851 w/ DET) for the sixth-most wins with a single franchise (regular season & playoffs combined). The only players with more are Nicklas Lidstrom (1,090 w/ DET), Patrick Marleau (924 w/ SJS), Alex Ovechkin (914 w/ WSH), Steve Yzerman (886 w/ DET) and Larry Robinson (859 w/ MTL).

* Crosby’s two tallies marked the 571st and 572nd go-ahead goals he has factored on in his career – he passed Mark Messier (571) for the fourth most in NHL history, behind only Wayne Gretzky (742), Jaromir Jagr (644) and Ron Francis (581).

* Crosby, who was named to Team Canada for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, became the 10th Canadian player in NHL history to score 300 career road goals, passing his former Olympic teammate Jarome Iginla (299) along the way while also overtaking him for ninth on the League’s all-time game-winning goals list. Iginla assisted on Crosby’s overtime goal in the gold medal game against Team USA at the 2010 Winter Olympics.


YOUNG DUCKS, SHARKS DUOS LIFT THEIR CLUBS TO VICTORY

A pair of Californian clubs were lifted to victory Monday by their young stars, with Sharks duo Will Smith (2-1—3) and Macklin Celebrini (0-3—3) each posting a three-point game versus the Mammoth while Ducks duo Beckett Sennecke (0-1—1) and Leo Carlsson (1-1—2) both found the score sheet against the Blues.

* Smith became the second Sharks player to score multiple goals in consecutive games at age 20 or younger, joining Tomas Hertl (2 GP from Oct. 5-8, 2013). Only three players in NHL history have posted a longer such streak before age 21: Patrik Laine (3 GP in 2017-18), Wayne Gretzky (3 GP in 1981-82) and Mike Foligno (3 GP in 1979-80).


* Celebrini (14-26—40 in 27 GP) became the second player to hit 40 points this season and one of the fastest teenagers in NHL history to do so while also surpassing Connor McDavid (11-25—36 in 26 GP) for the League lead in assists. In the process, Celebrini became the seventh teenager in NHL history to reach the 25-point mark in 27 games or fewer, joining Gretzky (21 GP in 1980-81 & 22 GP in 1979-80), Mario Lemieux (21 GP in 1984-85), Sidney Crosby (23 GP in 2006-07), Steve Yzerman (26 GP in 1984-85), Ron Francis (27 GP in 1982-83) and Larry Murphy (27 GP in 1980-81).


* Carlsson’s first point of the night placed him alongside Leon Draisaitl (2x: 8 GP) as the second player this season with multiple point streaks of seven-plus games (also 11 GP). With his second point, Carlsson became the fifth-fastest Ducks player to record his first 25 career multi-point games, behind Paul Kariya (82 GP), Trevor Zegras (111 GP), Bobby Ryan (147 GP) and Ryan Getzlaf (147 GP).

* Sennecke (7-13—20 in 26 GP) became the first rookie this season to hit 20 points and required the second-fewest games in franchise history to reach the mark behind only Kariya (24 GP). Sennecke (1-7—8 in 8 GP) also matched Kariya (8 GP in 1994-95) for the longest point streak by a Ducks rookie.


NHL GIVES THANKS TO THE BEST FANS IN SPORTS

More than 800,000 fans filled NHL arenas to 99% of capacity over the festive U.S. Thanksgiving holiday period from Wednesday, Nov. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 30, lifting the NHL to a sweep of monthly attendance records.

Amid marquee performances from a multi-generational group of young stars and legends of the sport, plus unprecedented competition for playoff berths, a total of 3,951,033 fans attended the 225 NHL games in November for a per-game average of 17,560 and 97.3% capacity. All three attendance metrics – total, average and percent capacity – set NHL all-time records for the month of November.






ESPN+ DOUBLEHEADER HEADLINES 10-GAME TUESDAY

The Panthers (12-11-1, 25 points) and Maple Leafs (11-11-3, 25 points), the past two winners of the Atlantic Division, have hopes of climbing closer to the playoff line when they clash for the first time since Game 7 of the 2025 Second Round. Their rematch is one of two contests that comprise an ESPN+ doubleheader, alongside a head-to-head meeting between Mark Stone and Connor Bedard when the Golden Knights and Blackhawks drop the puck at T-Mobile Arena.

* The Panthers are taking to the ice in December for the first time and are 32 days away from hosting the NHL’s first-ever outdoor game in the state of Florida when they welcome the Rangers to LoanDepot Park in Miami. Brad Marchand, a perfect 3-0-0 in career outdoor games (2019 Winter Classic, 2021 NHL Outdoors at Lake Tahoe & 2023 Winter Classic), leads the Panthers into their clash with the Maple Leafs on Tuesday – his 60th regular-season outing against the club (21-37—58 in 59 GP). Only four active players have more game-winning goals against Toronto in the regular season than Marchand (4): Alex Ovechkin (6), Claude Giroux (6), Steven Stamkos (6) and David Pastrnak (6).

* Auston Matthews (411 in 649 GP) will appear in his 650th career game when Toronto takes to the ice for the first of its three contests this week, with the Maple Leafs’ captain 10 goals shy of overtaking franchise icon Mats Sundin (420 in 981 GP) for the most in team history. Toronto’s all-time goals leader has already changed twice (from Dave Keon to Darryl Sittler, then Sittler to Sundin) since the last time another Original Six goals leader changed (NYR: Rod Gilbert on Dec. 16, 1973).

* Stone returned to Vegas’ lineup last week, posting 2-1—3 through three games and has continued his point-producing ways by finding the score sheet in each one of his contests for the club during the 2025-26 season (4-12—16 in 9 GP). The Golden Knights captain, already the first player in franchise history to collect a point in each of his first nine appearances of a season, can be the first to do so in 10 consecutive outings this season. Three players did so in 2024-25: Nathan MacKinnon (13 GP), Cale Makar (13 GP) and Kyle Connor (12 GP).

* Bedard’s four-point night in his most recent outing helped the 20-year-old keep pace in the NHL’s scoring race this season and move within three points of becoming the third player to reach the 40-point mark in 2025-26 (16-21—37 in 25 GP); he reached 40 points during his 45th contest in 2024-25. The Blackhawks forward has notched three or more points in a game six times this season, behind only MacKinnon (7).


SCHAEFER, ISLANDERS WELCOME STREAKING LIGHTNING TO UBS ARENA

Matthew Schaefer, fresh off 11 points during his 15 games in November, will be tasked with going head-to-head with Nikita Kucherov and the Lightning – winners of seven straight games dating to Nov. 18 and five straight road games dating to Nov. 6.

* Schaefer has registered at least 25 minutes of time on ice in 11 of his first 26 career games, ahead of the next closest rookies Sam Rinzel (2x), Alexander Nikishin (1x) and Zeev Buium (1x), and has moved within striking distance of his 20th career point thanks to three straight outings with a point (8-11—19 in 26 GP). He can join Larry Murphy (19 GP in 1980-81) and Phil Housley (25 GP in 1982-83) as the third teenage defenseman in NHL history to register 20 career points in 27 games or fewer.

* The Lightning, who have trailed for 63:21 during the seven-game win streak and just 5:38 in the past four contests, have earned an NHL-best 584 wins since Kucherov made his League debut in 2013-14. Meanwhile, a sixth straight road victory would match the second-longest road win streak in franchise history (5x; last: 2019-20), behind only 2006-07 (7 GP from Jan. 7 – Feb. 1, 2007).


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#ChezPeachy #ItalyPeachy Italian ceramics in Brussels: without a change in the ETS, the sector’s survival is at risk

On 2 and 3 December, the senior management of Confindustria Ceramica, together with representatives of the leading companies in the sector, are in Brussels for a series of meetings with key decision-makers in European institutions. The aim is to explain that the Italian ceramic industry, a strongly export-oriented, highly energy-intensive and hard-to-abate sector, risks entering a systemic crisis within just a few years unless urgent, targeted action is taken. The industry currently consists of 248 companies, employs 26,000 people directly (40,000 including the supply chain) and generates more than €6.3 billion in exports. Yet its stability is being undermined by a combination of uncontrolled costs and an increasingly unsustainable regulatory framework.

The message from the Italian ceramic industry is clear: the current climate policy framework, combined with the soaring costs of the ETS, is rapidly eroding the competitiveness, investment capacity and employment prospects of the entire sector. Without an immediate review of European rules, deadlines and instruments, there is a very real risk of the progressive closure of European plants and the relocation of production to non-EU countries that do not have comparable environmental and social standards.

The delegation, accompanied by the President of the Emilia-Romagna regional government, Michele De Pascale, and Confindustria Delegate for Energy, Aurelio Regina, will meet Raffaele Fitto, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, along with other senior representatives of the EU institutions.

The meetings coincide with the annual plenary session of the European Policy Ceramics Forum (EPCF), which brings together MEPs from various member states that are particularly exposed to the challenges facing the European ceramic industry.

“Our sector is also a world leader in terms of efficiency and emissions reduction thanks to investments totalling €4.3 billion over the last decade,” said Augusto Ciarrocchi, Chairman of Confindustria Ceramica. “But we now have reached a breaking point. The lack of realistic technological alternatives, together with the uncontrolled rise in ETS costs, risks cancelling out in a very short time everything we have built. The ETS system has effectively become a carbon tax that is suffocating our ability to invest. In just one year, investments in the sector have fallen by 20%, a decrease of €80 million that corresponds to the ETS costs paid by our companies and puts competitiveness and jobs at risk. Without immediate corrective measures, Europe will end up rewarding those who pollute outside its borders and penalising those who, like us, are genuinely investing in the environment.”

Graziano Verdi, Chairman of the European federation CET, gave an even starker warning: “Without swift and decisive action, the Italian ceramic sector will face a crisis similar to, if not worse than, that of the automotive industry. In the absence of corrective measures, competition from non-EU countries without any environmental constraints whatsoever will become unsustainable. We are not asking for privileges, but for fair and common-sense rules, such as the proper application of existing compensation schemes, the suspension of mechanisms for reducing allocated quotas, a CBAM that truly protects our products in both the EU and non-EU markets, and the extension of equivalent measures to smaller companies. If we fail to act now, the transition will become an industrial and social boomerang of enormous proportions.”

“We are here in Brussels to give a voice to an entire industrial district, the ceramic industry, which is a flagship not only for Emilia-Romagna but for Europe as a whole,” said Michele de Pascale, President of the Emilia-Romagna regional government. “We recently held an important meeting with trade unions at the headquarters of Confindustria Ceramica, an open and responsible discussion that confirmed the urgent need for a shared strategy to protect businesses, workers and the local community.
“The ceramic industry is a highly energy-intensive, hard-to-abate sector that has invested heavily in the ecological transition, cutting emissions and innovating processes. In Emilia-Romagna, we have some of the most advanced companies in the world, with modern, digitalised, highly efficient and sustainable plants. Penalising them with a disproportionate regulatory system, starting with the ETS mechanism, means undermining the competitiveness of the very companies that were the first to act responsibly, while at the same time benefiting non-EU countries such as China, India and Turkey, where environmental and social rules are far less stringent.
“In this way we risk increasing global emissions instead of reducing them, while putting thousands of skilled jobs in our region at risk. Emilia-Romagna will continue to do its part, but that is not enough on its own. Bold political decisions are needed at EU level to prevent the transition from turning into widespread deindustrialisation across Europe.”

“As Chair of the European Policy Ceramics Forum, I am pleased to host the 31st edition of Ceramic Days, which brings to Brussels operators, entrepreneurs, trade associations and political representatives from across Europe who care about the future of the European ceramic industry,” said MEP Elisabetta Gualmini.
“At a European level, we are committed to protecting and promoting the development of European manufacturing, starting with the first Industrial Plan, the Competitiveness Compass and the various simplification packages (Omnibus). The ceramic industry faces multiple challenges, from the excessive and almost unsustainable burden of ETS costs on a sector that has already made major progress in decarbonisation, to tariffs and unfair competition from countries such as India and China. We will discuss these issues with MEPs and European Commission officials, in the awareness that an innovation- and export-driven sector like ceramics, which makes a fundamental contribution to the wealth of Italy and Europe, must be at the heart of the European agenda.”

“Brothers of Italy wants to protect the important ceramic industry from the environmentalist excesses we have seen in recent years in the EU,” says MEP Stefano Cavedagna. “This sector requires large amounts of energy and has to purchase allowances to produce under the ETS system. It would face serious problems if the new European legislation defining the best available techniques and environmental limits for plants (BREF) were to be approved, because they impose completely unrealistic emission limits and technical requirements. These rules make our companies uncompetitive, at a time when they already have to cope with unfair competition from India and China.
“Either we halt the Green Deal or we will head towards deindustrialisation. We refuse to accept that our industrial sector in Emilia-Romagna should be shut down because of ideologically-driven environmental choices. The EU must change course. While the Italian ceramic industry has a responsible and tightly regulated environmental impact, other countries around the world have far higher emission levels.”

“We stand alongside our companies in calling for a reversal of the misguided European decarbonisation policies that risk deindustrialising the continent,” said Aurelio Regina, Confindustria Delegate for Energy. “The European Union, which accounts for 6% of total global emissions, has imposed a CO2 cost up to six times higher than any other part of the world where CO2 is priced, bearing in mind that only 25% of the planet has a system for pricing climate-altering emissions. European industry is responsible for 1.5% of emissions. Even if we were to eliminate them all tomorrow, the effect on the climate would be imperceptible, but the impact on our economic and social stability and on our welfare system would be devastating. Compared to twenty years ago, when the ETS mechanism was introduced, the price of gas has more than doubled. Adding an extra CO2 charge today simply penalises European production and pushes up energy costs. The current gas price already sends a clear signal to the market that can drive investment towards decarbonisation. What is needed now is a sense of responsibility and pragmatism on the part of the European institutions. They must immediately suspend the ETS system at least until 2030 and carry out a thorough overhaul of how it operates, excluding thermoelectric production from the scheme and introducing instruments capable of substantially reducing CO2 costs.”

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#EarthyPeachy Mellencamp Family Joins Fight to Save Hoosier National Forest for Future Generations

The Hoosier National Forest faces the largest logging and burning plan ever proposed in its history. John Mellencamp's iconic music will be used in "Saving the Hoosier: The Fight for America's Forests," with Hud Mellencamp narrating the new movie from Women with Guts Productions & Magnet Films. Interviews with scientists, activists, citizens, and policy makers including Governor Mike Braun will be included in the film.

Rock legend John Mellencamp and his entrepreneur son Hud Mellencamp officially became part of the Save Hoosier National Forest movement, which has received broad nonpartisan support in Indiana. The Mellencamps are partnering with Women with Guts Productions and Magnet Films to create a new film about activists fighting against US Forest Service plans to log, burn and chemically treat the Hoosier National Forest, Indiana's only National Forest. This creative collaboration allows filmmakers to use John Mellencamp's iconic American music in the soundtrack for the new documentary, Saving the Hoosier: The Fight for America's Forests, while Hud Mellencamp, a Duke University graduate and founder of his own whiskey brand, has signed on as narrator of the film.

"I'm excited to be part of this film, because the Hoosier National Forest is not only a place I love, it's where I live, where I grew up," said Hud Mellencamp. "I don't want to see this area compromised by logging and burning. That's why I'm lending my voice to this issue and standing beside activists and scientists who've been doing this work for decades." Saving the Hoosier will be Hud Mellencamp's first film.

Hud met his best friend / business partner in the Hoosier National Forest: "My brother and I were running around the woods, and in the middle of a valley we saw two other boys around our age, and we all just stopped and stared, shocked to see other people in the middle of the woods. We all stood there silently until Levi asked if we wanted to eat these berries they had just found." Ever since, Mellencamp says, they've been best friends and even started a new venture together, Mellencamp Whiskey Company. "And when we're not busy with our business, we spend time in that same woods, finding more blackberries and making blackberry wine," he says.

Though the whiskey business relies on oak for barrels, Mellencamp says his company uses sustainably-sourced barrels, adding, "There's no reason to cut down our public forests, when lumber can be sourced from private lands if needed. I want to keep our public lands as pristine as possible for future generations to enjoy."

Executive producer Rachael Himsel explains how a trip to Clash Art Gallery sealed the deal: "I saw John Mellencamp's artwork was on display at a local gallery, so I popped in. His paintings are just incredible," she said. "I talked to the gallery owner, and told her it would be a dream come true to use his music in the film, or for him to narrate it, and she said we were in luck, because she was going to be in touch with his team that week."

Gallery owner Jennifer Mujezinovic followed up with Mellencamp representative Cathy Richey, and within days, Himsel received a call offering use of his music and a message that Hud would narrate the film: "I was in tears, overjoyed. I knew this would help create awareness of this important issue, and I cannot thank the Mellencamp family enough." Himsel is hopeful that this spotlight on preserving our public lands will help the team reach their $35,000 fundraising goal on GoFundMe campaign.

David Yosha, founder of Magnet Films, is co-producing the documentary, with Alex Johnson on camera crew. The production team includes Jennifer Wagner of Mass Ave PR and digital specialist Polina Shumanova. Advisors include Steven Stewart and entertainment marketing executive Frank Chiocchi.

Besides music from Mellencamp, songs by lifelong forest activist Andy Mahler will also be included. As a founder of the Indiana Forest Alliance, Protect Our Woods and Heartwood, Mahler is a key figure in the film, along with Indiana governor Mike Braun, who has written numerous letters of support and was interviewed for the film. Additional music will be provided by other Hoosier artists including Krista Detor, Carrie Newcomer, Sarah Flint, Jeff Shew and Busman's Holiday, with art by Bonnie Gordon-Lucas. Additional footage for the film is being provided by Visit Indiana.

Other entertainment heavyweights have shown their support of the movement, including Bloomington natives Angelo Pizzo, writer and producer of films including Hoosiers and Rudy, and producer, educator and activist Anna Strout Eisenberg. Additionally, these organizations have taken public stands against the outdated USFS plan: Orange County Board of Commissioners, Monroe County Board of Commissioners, Crawford County Board of Commissioners, Indiana Forest Alliance, Friends of Lake Monroe and board president Dr. Sherry Mitchell-Bruker, Hoosier Environmental Council, Friends of the Ferdinand State Forest, and the Buffalo Trace Preservation Group.

"We're excited to tell this incredible story and celebrate Hoosiers working together side-by-side, whatever their political affiliation, to imagine a more sustainable and beautiful future for our public lands," said Himsel. "The outpouring of support for the movement has been incredible - now we just need to raise funds to finish the film!"


Those wishing to make a tax-deductible donation to the film may do so by contacting fiscal sponsor, NGO Artists for Climate Awareness.

For more information or to support the work by donating, visit SavingTheHoosier.com

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