Hamptons Happenings

In Community News

Steadfast. Stylish. Still Fighting On

November 22, 2025 In Community News 3 Mins Read

Real Talk, Real People – covering the East End like only we do.

What do you get when you mix elegance, activism, and a room full of people who are never afraid to speak truth to power?

The NAACP Eastern Long Island Branch 73rd Annual Membership Luncheon – and baby, it was a whole vibe.

The Birchwood of Polish Town in Riverhead transformed into a powerhouse gathering where community met purpose over chicken marsala and a mission older than many of the elected officials in the room.

Eastern Long Island NAACP President Dwight Singleton opened with humor:

“I am a recovering elected official…
Thank God it’s not an election year!”

✨ Who Was in the Room?

It was a strong showing of support for the NAACP mission. Among the invited guests were County Executive Ed Romaine, Michelle Cannon from the Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreation Center, Minerva Perez of OLA, Mayor William Manger Jr. Southampton Village, members of the Southampton Town Council, Michael Iasilli, Bill Pell, County Legislator Anne Welker, Assemblyman Fred Thiele, Assemblyman Tommy Schiavoni, Rev. Charles A. Coverdale of First Baptist of Riverhead and his beautiful wife First Lady Shirley Coverdale and so many other dedicated officials and community leaders who consistently show up – not just when cameras are flashing.

When the East End shows up like this, you feel it.

❤️ Honoring Legacy and Love

Singleton honored the late, beloved Maurice “Moose” Ware, whose name brought a heartfelt standing ovation — a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles, it’s about service.

Then came the personal moment that captured the room…

Singleton introduced his real boss –his wife, Sandra – proudly celebrating 20 years of marriage:

“I’ve been promoted from assistant to security and transportation – to Director!”

Black love always gets the applause it deserves. 🍷❤️

💪🏾 Membership is the Mission

Dwight didn’t just speak – he rallied the room:

“You don’t have to join today.
You don’t have to join tomorrow.
But you will have that application in by Monday at 9 AM!”

Because this mission isn’t just history ; it’s right now.

Affordable housing.
Voting rights.
Economic justice.
Education.
Environmental equity.

This is the work.

👑 An Icon in the Building

At 95 years young (and looking fabulous), Ms. Rogers was honored and the room rose for her like royalty. A true living legacy.

🎤 Real Talk

In times when rights are under fire and affordability feels like fantasy, gatherings like this remind us:

➡️ The movement is alive
➡️ The mission continues
➡️ The East End refuses to be silent

Membership keeps the momentum going — and pushes justice forward.

👏 Final Word

This wasn’t just a luncheon.
It was a declaration:

We’re still here.
Still strong.
Still fighting.
Still fabulous while doing it.

Real Talk, Real People.

In Hamptons

Tumbleweed Tuesday in the Hamptons

September 2, 2025 In Hamptons 2 Mins Read

Tumbleweed Tuesday in the Hamptons 🌾

Labor Day comes and goes, and then—poof! Just like that, the Hamptons transforms from the center of the universe to something that feels a lot more like Mayberry. Around here, we call it Tumbleweed Tuesday—that magical day when the traffic disappears, the beaches empty, and locals can finally reclaim their towns.

From Chaos to Calm

On Monday, you can’t get across Main Street in Sag Harbor without risking your life in front of a Range Rover. The lines at the bakery wrap around the corner, and parking? Forget it. You’d have a better chance winning Powerball than finding a spot on Main Street.

Then Tuesday rolls in… and suddenly, you can hear birds chirping again. You stroll into Cluckman’s in Sag Harbor without waiting, the Sag Harbor Pharmacy has zero lines, and if you sneeze on Main Street, three people don’t bump into you.

The Local Sigh of Relief

For locals, Tumbleweed Tuesday is the ultimate deep breath. We made it through another season—survived the beach passes, the dinner reservations, and the endless “Do you know where I can get a good lobster roll?” conversations. Now comes the reward: empty beaches, shorter lines, and the Hamptons at its best—slower, friendlier, and ours again.

The Flip Side

Of course, it’s bittersweet. Many restaurants start cutting their hours, some shops close until spring, and our seasonal economy slows down. But hey, at least we can make a left turn without saying a prayer first.

Real Talk, Real People

So, cheers to Tumbleweed Tuesday—the Hamptons’ unofficial holiday. We’ve earned it. Bring on the quiet mornings, sweater weather, and fall sunsets that belong to the locals.

Because after a summer of chaos, nothing feels sweeter than finding a parking spot right in front of the Sag Harbor movie theater.

Real Talk, Real People.

In Fundraiser for a Cause

Concert for a Cause: Robin Thicke, Memories, and Second Chances

August 12, 2025 In Fundraiser for a Cause 4 Mins Read

Concert for a Cause: Music, Memories, and Second Chances, Real talk, Real People.

**Victoria Hilton,Melissa Gorga, Robin Thicke, guest**

Friday, August 8th, the beautiful estate of Maria and Kenneth Fishel in Bridgehampton became the backdrop for something far bigger than a summer party — it was an evening of music, love, and lifesaving compassion, Second Chance Rescue.

The event, Concert for a Cause, was held in loving memory of their daughter, Melissa Fishel, who adored cats and had a heart for all animals. Her spirit was woven into every detail — from the way guests were greeted, to the stories shared, to the mission at the heart of the night: supporting NYC Second Chance Rescue.

If you don’t know their work, Second Chance Rescue is a nonprofit that pulls animals — often the most abused, neglected, and overlooked — from death’s door. These are dogs and cats who have endured unthinkable cruelty, left with injuries, illness, and deep emotional scars. This group steps in when others won’t, providing urgent medical care, rehabilitation, and ultimately, a home filled with love.

Midway through the evening, the crowd was asked to pause the mingling and turn toward the screen. A short film from Second Chance Rescue began to roll. Within minutes, you could feel the air change. The room grew quiet, eyes filled, and a few sniffles echoed in the background. We saw the “before” — the heartbreaking images of animals abandoned, broken, and barely surviving. And then, the “after” — tails wagging, eyes bright, safe in the arms of new families. It was a reminder of why nights like this matter so much.

Actress and Designer Christine Evangelista was honored for her unwavering support of the rescue. She spoke with passion and gratitude, her words echoing the same truth: every life saved is worth the fight.

**Lisa Blanco,Christine Evangelista, Kate McEntee, Jennifer Brooks, Lisa Rose**

The evening drew an impressive guest list, including philanthropist Jean Shafiroff, bestselling author Candice Bushnell, and television personality Melissa Gorga, each lending their star power and support to the cause. Their presence added to the energy and generosity that flowed throughout the night.

***Jean Shafiroff*, *Candice Bushnell***

Maria and Kenneth Fishel then took the stage to share beautiful memories of Melissa — a young woman who loved fiercely and never turned away from a creature in need. Her legacy was palpable, and her love for animals made the night’s mission feel deeply personal.

After their heartfelt remarks, the live auction kicked off — a spirited and generous display of giving that generated significant funds for NYC Second Chance Rescue. Every paddle raised meant another chance for an animal to heal and find a forever home.

Then came the music. Robin Thicke lit up the stage with his signature charm, delivering an energized performance that had the crowd swaying, singing, and smiling. He sang 3–4 songs, including my personal favorite, Lost Without You, and the audience was right there with him.

As the stars sparkled over the Hamptons sky, guests continued to dance the night away, signature cocktails with Biatch Tequila in hand, the energy as warm and joyful as the cause itself.

The moments, big and small, were captured beautifully by Photography by Kurt, ensuring the emotion and energy of the night will live on long after the last note faded.

But what stood out most wasn’t the music, or the celebrities, or even the gorgeous setting. It was the stories — both spoken and unspoken — of animals who were given a second chance because people cared enough to make it happen.

This wasn’t just a concert. It was a movement — a reminder that our compassion has the power to change the world, one paw at a time.

Want to help? Visit NYC Second Chance Rescue to learn how you can adopt, foster, or donate. Because sometimes, all it takes is one act of kindness to turn a story from heartbreak to hope.

Click here to see full Gallery

In Eats

Art and Soul, a Soulful Celebration in the Hamptons

August 1, 2025 In Eats 3 Mins Read

Art & Soul: Where Culture, Flavor & Black Joy Took Center Stage in the Hamptons

Let’s keep it real — ART & SOUL: Hamptons didn’t just return this year. It showed out.

From July 18–20, the East End was alive with color, culture, and connection as this sold-out, three-day celebration spotlighted the brilliance of Black creativity. We’re talking visual art, Caribbean soul food, live music, crafted cocktails, and thought-provoking conversations — all wrapped in a weekend that radiated joy from start to finish.

And when I say this event had layers? I mean layers.

✨ Visual artists like Reynoir Lewis, Laura R. Gadson, and Suliman Onque lit up the outdoor exhibitions with bold, breathtaking work.

✨ Photographer Kurt Leggard (yep, that’s my husband!) captured the magic of the red carpet, from the glow-ups to the candid moments of joy.

✨ Music floated through the air — with flutist Dwayne Kerr (of Erykah Badu’s band), master kora player Yacouba Sissoko, SIYA African Band, and DJ Infmatick setting the tone.

And y’all already know my favorite part: Friday night’s Culinary Tasting & Film Night. The flavors were bold, the chefs brought the heat (shoutout to Chara’s Kitchen, SMAC, Infusery, and more!), and the screening of ERASED — narrated by Idris Elba — hit deep. It was powerful, moving, and necessary. The talkback, moderated by Brenda Simmons of the Southampton African American Museum, opened the floor to the kind of conversations that stick with you long after the credits roll.

Throughout the weekend, guests sipped on curated cocktails and moonshine from New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery (yes, moonshine!), and toasted with HRLM Champagne and wines from Charles Springfield’s stylings. And let’s not forget the soulful wellness sips and bites from PAIJA Tea Co., Happy Bubble Soda, The Nourish Spot, and more.

The vibes? Immaculate. The crowd? A mix of tastemakers, artists, philanthropists, and real-deal community leaders. Names like actress Novi Brown (BET’s Sistas), Peter Marino, Vanessa Gordon, Dr. Georgette Grier-Key, and yes, me (Vanessa Leggard of Hamptons MouthPiece!) came out to celebrate.

But this event wasn’t about the names. It was about the energy. The joy. The community. The real talk, real People

As festival producer Yaya Reyes put it best, “ART & SOUL is not just an event — it’s a declaration of presence, purpose, and power.”

And that’s exactly what it felt like.

From the luxe florals by April & Ashley to the curated gift bags filled with purpose-driven Black-owned brands — everything felt intentional, elevated, and full of soul.

This was a weekend that didn’t just entertain — it uplifted. It honored the past, celebrated the present, and poured into the future of Black excellence in the arts, food, and beyond.

If you missed it this year, don’t worry — Art & Soul is just getting started. Follow @ArtAndSoulHamptons to stay plugged in.

Because around here, we do more than show up.

We celebrate, we support, and we shine.

Hamptons MouthPiece; Real Talk. Real People. From NYC to the East End.

In Hamptons Happenings

Happenings in the Hamptons Memorial Day Weekend

April 23, 2018 In Hamptons Happenings 4 Mins Read

Happenings in the Hamptons Memorial Day Weekend

New restaurants and Happenings for Memorial Day weekend in the Hamptons.

Montauk, Swallow East, Zum Scheideman Montauk , Navy Beach and Scarpette Beach are all reopening this weekend.

The Surf Lodge will be Happening this weekend with Parson James on Saturday, May 26 and Jessie J on Sunday, May 27^th.

Gurney’s will be debuting a new look at the Beach club this Memorial Day weekend. Friday, May 25^th, Craft cocktails and live music at the Regent Firepit , DJ Stef Nava will be spinning tunes. Saturday, May 26^th, workout with Rumble Boxing, and on Sunday, Lobsterbake and Live Music.

“The Ryan Show / TRS” of the season featuring 90’s rapper Royal Flush, local and NYC hip hop artists performing live as well. The show is taking place on Friday May 25th at 10:00 PM, $10 entry fee.

Venue: Old Stove Pub 3516 Montauk Hwy, Sagaponack, New York

Creator Ryan Verneuille started The Ryan Show as a podcast while he was working the 9-5 grind back in the Hamptons in 2015. After finding a unique format and successfully monetizing the show through a live broadcast Ryan partnered up with Grammy award winning rapper Mr. Cheeks. He discovered Ryan after a show exposing Valerie Smith who made a name for herself by voicing some racist remarks in front of the town of Southampton. The Ryan Show following has grown in NYC and they have continued their movement to preserve free speech, and “make hip hop great again”.

Ryan is very excited to bring this brand that they created back out to their hometown. A cool movement that is trending-up in NYC and this journey has just begun. Read more about what others are saying about The Ryan Show

Boxing Class Saturday, May 26th, take a boxing class – with proffessional trainer Steven Frank, former Olympian and Super Middle-Weight World Champion. Learn the boxing fundamentals in this class that teaches proper boxing stance, defense & footwork, punch combinations, and movement tactics such as creating angles. This high-paced total-body workout is 1hour and will get your heart rate up as you learn the basics of boxing. You will work in pairs moving through different circuits so it’s always encouraged to bring a friend! for more information click here:

Sunday, May 27th 5-8pm * Evening of Wine & Roses 2018 * Southampton Cultural Center’s 3rd Annual Gala

Memorial Day Parade, Sag Harbor * May 28th 9am

Restaurant & Community News

Montauk: Hooked takes over South Etna in Montauk, specializing in Lobster Rolls and will be open year-round. High end Eleven Madison Park restaurant returns for season 2 in the Hamptons as a pop-up in Amagansett, special preferential treatment to American Express card holders. Moby’s returns but not in their spot, that spot is being rented to Eleven Madison Park,

East Hampton: Moby’s will open up shop at East Hampton Point this summer and rumor has it that it will be a HOT SPOT this summer. The Service Station closed earlier this year and the Quiet Clam opened its doors a few weeks ago. Do you remember when it was the quiet clam before it was Nicols.

High End Japanese Restaurant Shuko in Greenwich Village, is returning this season from July 6 – Aug. 31, Highway Restaurant & Bar, 290 Montauk Highway in Wainscott, NY.

Il Mulino the High end Italian Restaurant is opening a Hamptons location in Wainscott, it was previously Osteria Salina.

Sag Harbor has many changes and many new additions. Faherty Brand, Love Shack Fancy and Haven are new additions to Main Street. Calypso and Breezin Up are out.

Satori has a brand new look and new ownership. Sag Pizza bought Conco dora and will be opening soon, Urban Zen and Tutto Il Giorno took over the Muse space on Main Street. Sen went through a major renovation and will be reopening at the end of June. Grindstone Donuts added some fun new donuts to its menu and they will be adding Ice cream to their list of items offered, Back Page and le Bilboquet have reopened. Le Bilboquet tells me that things will be very different this summer and there will not be a repeat of last year with potential customers being turned away at the door.

Bridgehampton, The farmers market at the Hayground School will not be reopening this year. L & W Market, a storefront for local produce and products and prepared food, is an offshoot of Almond Restaurant next door, 2493 Montauk Highway.

Southampton: Maison Vivienne, a new country inn and French restaurant opens on Main Street, Jue Lan Club restaurant on Em Street in Southampton reopens this week until September.

Everyone is always asking about the Nitelife in the Hamptons, Hamptons Curbed put together a guide to nightlife in the Hamptons this summer. Read more here.

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