The War & Treaty Coming to The Stephen Talkhouse April 4 10:41 AM (2 hours ago)
Making the ground shake on the country music scene, The War And Treaty are poised to leave their mark as one of the most iconic husband-and-wife duos in music history.
Captivating fans with their effortless fusion of soul and country, the duo is currently on the road on The Plus One Tour, a 30+ city tour that is continuing to bring their electrifying live show to fans across the US and Canada. Fresh off earning their 3rd consecutive Academy of Country Music Award nomination for “Duo of the Year,” they’ll be hitting the stage at Amagansett’s The Stephen Talkhouse on Friday, April 4.
On Valentine’s Day of this year, the duo dropped their album, ‘Plus One’ which has been praised by The New York Times, NPR, Rolling Stone, WSJ and was featured in Esquire’s ”The 5 Best Albums of 2025 (So Far).” The project doubles down on the powerful sense of togetherness that’s always fueled their music.
Dan’s Papers had the chance to catch up with Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Trotter just an hour before they took the stage in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
In your Instagram post reacting to the nomination, you said, “‘when @acmawards said ‘We see you, again’ and see your grind we felt that in our soul.’” Can you share a bit more of your reaction and what it was like to receive this nomination?
Tanya: There is progress, at least for us, to be acknowledged by the ACM Awards and to be embraced by that community. So we wanted to take the opportunity to one, say thank you, but not sugarcoat the fact that there still are barriers that we have to continue to break down, and it’s important for them to see that we’re not going anywhere in this space. We are going to stand our ground and continue to make music.
On Valentine’s Day, you released ‘Plus One’ have been getting to play this album on tour now – how’s it been on the road so far? What has the experience of getting to play your new music for the first time been like?
Michael: Hearing them singing the songs that you’ve released before the project, that you’ve released in the past, it’s so cool to see that. Last night, the building was halfway full of people who’ve seen us before and the other half, is like a split even of people who have never seen us before. That was super exciting to see. I think the biggest thing now that we’re looking to do, is to balance out the audiences in terms of how it looks culturally. Right now, our predominant audience is white and we’re starting to see more and more black people show up and more and more of the Latino and the Asian community starting to trickle out and show up into the concerts.
We won’t stop until we see, not a trickle, but a floodgate of just all different kinds of people from all different walks of life. Last night was the first time we actually asked, hey, who’s seen us before and who hasn’t? Who’s first time? We wanted to make the first timers feel welcome, let ’em know that we appreciate them coming out, and we wanted to feel them. We wanted to connect with their energy, their spirit, because we’re unfamiliar with one another. So we take it to heart, we take it very seriously and we take it very intentionally.
Do you have any favorite songs you’re loving performing on this tour?
Tanya: All of them. We’ve dug into some songs from our old album that we have never done before, “Hearts Town.” We’re doing a song that we didn’t think was one of the songs that were really punched through on this record, but “Love Is On Fire.” We’re doing “Home,” it’s another song that is about Michael’s story that has really connected with the fans. You just don’t know what the fans are going to love, and it’s good to hear from them what they love so you know what to perform.
Can you tell me a bit more about your approach to songwriting?
Tanya: When you’re writing a song, you do come from a place of your own personal stories, but one of the things that we’re learning as we grow as songwriters, is that sometimes perspective isn’t your story. Sometimes it’s telling the story that really may not have anything to do with you, but you can relate to it… A song like “Reminisce” lets people see that we understand even though we’re married, that there’s a life that happens after a breakup.
What is it like playing in intimate settings? How does The Stephen Talkhouse compare to venues you’ve been playing at?
Michael: We can’t wait to get back to it, the energy’s always great.
Tanya: Oh, it’s great. I mean, it’s where we started really playing in smaller venues and knowing how to have your sound in a room like that. To know how shaker sounds in rooms like that. It’s always interesting to do that, and we love it. We love one-on-one. We love the energy you get from the crowd when it comes off. They’re definitely listening.
Is there anyone you’re still hoping to collaborate with, and what makes a dream collaboration for you?
Tanya: We’re always open. We did a record with Jon Bon Jovi earlier this year, and it’s coming out on his record we wrote with Miranda Lambert. It’s whatever comes along. I don’t think that there’s one particular artist that we’re kind of pinpointing right now, because it’s all about when you meet an artist and how you feel about them and how they feel about you. If it just clicks like we did with Zach Bryan at the ACM Awards a few years ago. It was just one of those meetings where he took to us, and we took to him, and out of that chemistry, we ended up with “Hey Driver.” So I think it’s just being open and seeing what the universe is trying to put in front of you. You usually feel that when you’re in front of another artist.
Can you tell me a bit more about how the collaboration with Zach Bryan and “Hey Driver” came to life?
Tanya: It was so great doing that song because the backdrop about it is Michael had gone to the restroom, and Zach and I were in the studio, and Zach was like, I saw Michael playing a piano. Does he play? I said, yeah, he plays, and Michael doesn’t necessarily like to play the piano all the time. And I said, well, what I need you to do is make sure he’s playing on this song. So when he came back, Zach was like, Hey, Michael, man, look, follow me with this guitar and see what you got. And Michael was kind of apprehensive. So what you hear on the record is Zach pushing Michael to play it. So he is like, this is your song, man, come on, give it to me! You can hear it on the record. It’s very raw and organic, and there was a lot of emotion and feeling behind the record, and it worked.
Things to Do in the Hamptons This Week, April 4-10, 2025 9:59 AM (2 hours ago)
Get out in the Hamptons this week to enjoy exciting live shows, outdoor adventures, art exhibitions, workshops and more, April 4-10, 2025.
HAMPTONS LIVE SHOWS
Women Rising Film Fest: Stories of Strength and Change
Friday, April 4, 7:30 p.m.
Don’t miss two inspiring films exploring the work of women from diverse backgrounds at LTV Studios. General admission is $10 online or $15 at the door. You can also purchase a VIP ticket with front-row cafe table seating for $35.
75 Industrial Road, Wainscott. 631-537-2777, ltveh.org
The Memberberries
Friday, April 4, 10 p.m.
Rock out to all of your favorite hits of the 90s and 2000s with this pop/rock band at The Stephen Talkhouse! Tickets are $15.
161 Main Street, Amagansett. 631-267-3117, stephentalkhouse.com
Joe Vecsey’s All-Star Comedy
Saturday, April 5, 8 p.m.
Don’t miss the stand-up hilarity of comedians like Jon Kurschner, Reg Thomas, and Ken Krantz at The Bay Street Theater! Tickets begin at $42.
1 Long Wharf, Sag Harbor. 631-725-9500, baystreet.org
Disco Night
Saturday, April 5, 7:30 p.m.
Get your groove on for a good cause at The Clubhouse, where you’ll hear the sounds of DJ CK Beats, enjoy a cash bar, and help support The Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center. Tickets are $25, and you need to be 21 to party.
174 Daniels Hole Road, East Hampton. 631-537-2695, clubhousehamptons.com
Creedence Revived
Saturday, April 5, 8 p.m.
Don’t miss this celebrated tribute band composed of Chicago and LA’s finest musicians. You’ll hear your favorite Creedence Clearwater Revival songs like “Fortunate Son” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain.”
76 Main Street, Westhampton Beach. 631-288-1500, whbpac.org
Winston Irie
Saturday, April 5, 8 p.m.
Don’t miss the reggae and ska sounds of Winston Irie at LTV Studios! Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. The VIP experience with upfront seating and a drink is $50.
75 Industrial Road, Wainscott. 631-537-2777, ltveh.org
Jazz Night
Wednesday, April 9, 6 p.m.
Don’t miss the sounds of The East Hampton High School Jazz Band as they perform along with Grammy Award-winning musicians Randy Becker and Ada Rovatti at The Clubhouse! Tickets are $20 and will be sold at the door. Students enjoy a $15 ticket and an arcade card.
174 Daniels Hole Road, East Hampton. 631-537-2695, clubhousehamptons.com
HAMPTONS OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Cupsogue Seal Walks
Saturday, April 5, 7 a.m.
Don’t miss Cresli’s final seal walk of the season, in which you’ll view and photograph seals along Cupsogue Beach. High-resolution digital cameras with viewing screens will be available. You’ll need to bring your own binoculars. Donations are suggested.
975 Dune Road, Westhampton Beach. 631-319-6003, cresli.org
Early Spring Bird Walk
Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m.
Enjoy a relaxing walk through The Tuckahoe Woods Preserve, in which you’ll look for birds like the yellow-bellied sapsucker, brown creeper, and pine warbler. Be sure to pre-register, dress for the weather, and bring your own binoculars.
37 Sebonac Road, Southampton. 631-283-3195, peconiclandtrust.org
The American Chestnut Story & Elliston Park Chestnut Tree Survey
Saturday, April 5, 10 a.m.
Enjoy a nature walk and tree talk in Elliston Park with Environmental Educator Rockfish Rob and Horticulturist April Gonzalez. You’ll leave with your own chestnut seed to germinate at home! The event is free, but advanced registration is required.
40 Millstone Brook Road, Southampton. 631-599-2391, sofo.org
ENRICHING HAMPTONS PROGRAMS
Studio: Figure Drawing Workshop
Friday, April 4, 1 p.m.
Work from a live model while learning techniques such as gesture, proportion, mass, and line at The Southampton Arts Center. Bring your own dry mediums such as soft vine charcoal, conte, or graphite. Large drawing pads are also requested.
25 Jobs Lane, Southampton. 631-283-0968, southamptonartscenter.org
Savoring Success: The Rise of the Hamptons Dining Scene
Saturday, April 5, 11:30 a.m.
Enjoy this fascinating panel discussion with restauranteurs Joe Realmuto of Nick & Toni’s, Jason Weiner of Almond, and David Loewenberg of Beacon and Bell & Anchor. New York Times food writer Florence Fabricant will lead the discussion.
159 Main Street, East Hampton. 631-324-0222, easthamptonlibrary.org
Career Attire Clothing Swap!
Saturday, April 5, 11 a.m.
Bring your 6-12 clean career clothing items in good shape to The Hampton Bays Library, where you’ll exchange them for “new” ones! Advanced registration is required.
52 Ponquogue Avenue, Hampton Bay. 631-728-6241, hamptonbayslibrary.org
Wild Names of Wildflowers
Sunday, April 6, 2 p.m.
Learn how wildflowers received their exotic names with MaryLaura Lamont from The Long Island Botanical Society at The Quogue Wildlife Refuge. Tickets are $5 and free for Refuge members.
3 Old Country Road, Quogue. 631-653-4771, quoguewildliferefuge.org
Cooking Class with Chef Alex
Sunday, April 6, 3:30 p.m.
Learn to make Spanish Tapas and Paella paired with Spanish Wine at The Hampton Maid! Tickets are $150. You can also book a room and stay overnight.
259 East Montauk Highway, Hampton Bays. 631-728-4166, hamptonmaid.com
Women’s Torah & Tea Zoom
Monday, April 7, 1 p.m.
Join Chabad of The Hamptons for this online class in which you’ll make new friends and be enlightened.
13 Woods Lane, East Hampton. 631-329-5800, chabadofthehamptons.com
Cocktail Chemistry: Batching, Balancing & the Beauty of Bitterness
Wednesday, April 9, 5:30 p.m.
Learn about the magic of mixing cocktails with Chimene Visser MacNaghton, HMH Beverage Director, at Nick & Toni’s. Your $35 ticket includes tasting sheets, crystal tasting stems, and small plates from the kitchen. RSVPs are strongly encouraged.
136 N Main Street, East Hampton. 631-324-3550, nickandtonis.com
Hamptons Whodunit Weekend Kickoff
Thursday, April 10, 5 p.m.
Don’t miss a cocktail party and VIP preview of Hamptons Whodunit Weekend, in which you’ll be a part of a true crime mystery, meet authors, enjoy book signings, watch films, try great bites, and have a fascinating time with your fellow mystery lovers!
50 Old Beach Lane, East Hampton. hamptonswhodunit.org/kick-off-cocktail-party-2025
Seven Beach Lane x Wolffer Estate: Explore & Pour
Thursday, April 10, 5:30 p.m.
Hear from Roman Roth of Wolffer Estates and the wine experts at Seven Beach Lane, who will enlighten you about aromas, flavors, and histories of wine. Tickets are $35.
7 Beach Lane, Westhampton Beach. 631-539-5106, wolffer.com
Passover Specials at the Art of Eating
Pre-order your Passover specials at The Art of Eating, where delights like curated Seder plates, slow-braised brisket, and matzah ball soup will be available.
264 Butter Lane, Bridgehampton. 631-267-2411, hamptonsartofeating.com
Passover Specials at Nick & Toni’s
Don’t forget to order your Passover specials, which can be picked up on April 11 and 12, at Nick & Toni’s. Matzah ball soup, Barolo Braised Short Ribs, and Pavlova will be available. You can also order items off the regular a la carte menu.
136 N Main Street, East Hampton. 631-324-3550, nickandtonis.com
HAMPTONS ART EXHIBITIONS
Personal Infrastructure II
On view through April 27
Don’t miss this new show featuring the works of artists Jeannine Bardo, Anna Lisa Jensen, Paul Krause, and Brenda Simmons at The Southampton Cultural Center. The gallery is open seven days a week.
25 Pond Lane, Southampton. 631-287-4377, scc-arts.org
Let Alone
On view through April 27
Don’t miss this group show featuring works in black and white by artists like Bob Sullivan, Josephine Wojtusiac, and Chris Lucore at LTV Studios. The art was curated by Haim Mizrahi.
75 Industrial Road, Wainscott. 631-537-2777, ltveh.org
Annual Student Exhibition
On view through April 27
Celebrate this seventy-year tradition at the Parrish Art Museum in which the works of over 1,000 East End student artists will be on display! Enjoy sculpture, drawing, and photography. You’ll also view student works created with visiting artist Andrea Cote.
279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill. 631-283-2118, parrishart.org
Eternal Testament
On view through June 1
View the work of native artists from around the country at The Church in celebration of the Montaukett and Shinnecock Nations at The Church.
48 Madison Street, Sag Harbor. 631-919-5342, thechurchsagharbor.org
Find more exciting Hamptons, North Fork and family events happening this weekend and beyond (or list your own event) at Events.DansPapers.com.
WTF: What the Financial! A Financial Empowerment Roadmap will drive LI prosperity 8:38 AM (4 hours ago)
Financial literacy is key to achieving long-term success, and helping reach that goal is WTF: What The Financial! A Financial Empowerment Roadmap, a unique new event sponsored by AARP New York.
This interactive and engaging event will provide attendees with essential tools, expert advice, and actionable strategies to build financial confidence and security. The event will feature free 15 minute one-one-one financial planning sessions provided by the Financial Planning Association (FPA) of Long Island. Having participated in the inaugural event in September 2024, Diane Harris, former Editor-in-Chief of Money magazine, will share her insights as the keynote speaker once again.
“We’re proud to sponsor this vital event that connects New Yorkers with experts, resources, and tools to help them plan for a financially secure future they deserve,” said AARP New York State Director Beth Finkel.
According to AARP’s recent Vital Voices survey, almost 50% of New Yorkers reported they did not feel totally confident they would have enough money to live comfortably throughout their retirement years.
The comprehensive forum dedicated to helping people make their money last a lifetime follows the success of the first What The Financial! event in which more than 800 attendees attended 16 seminars along with free financial planning sessions provided by the FPA of Metro New York.
Organized for individuals planning for retirement, WTF: What The Financial! aims to break down complex financial topics into easy-to-understand, practical insights. This event aims to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your financial future.
Breakout sessions will unpack such important topics as understanding Social Security, Medicare made easy, smart saving and investing, protecting your finances from scams, and simplifying trusts, wills and estates — to name a few.
One of the highlights of WTF: What The Financial! is its approachable and engaging format. Instead of traditional lectures, expect interactive discussions, real-world case studies, and Q&A sessions that allow participants to get personalized insights. The goal is to remove the intimidation factor from finance and empower attendees with practical, real-life solutions.
Whether you’re looking to improve your financial literacy, set new money goals, or gain expert insights, this event is a must-attend. Don’t miss the chance to take control of your financial future — secure your spot now and start your journey to financial empowerment!
“Schneps Media’s goal is to educate and inform our audience about what matters most to them. Financial literacy and security are crucial at every stage of life, which is why we are excited to partner with AARP New York once again and bring this informative event to the Long Island market.” said Joshua Schneps, CEO of Schneps Media.
Join Schneps Media and AARP New York at “WTF! (What the Financial!)– A Financial Empowerment Roadmap,” and take an important step toward securing your financial future. The organizers have seen a surge in demand, so RSVP today!
Registration details
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Location: Nassau Community College, College Center Building (CCB)*. One Education Drive, Garden City, NY
*The CCB is next to the Public Safety Building. Entrance through Earle Ovington Blvd, which ends in the College parking lot.
Cost: Free Admission with Registration
Where to Register: WTFLI.com
Hamptonites Celebrate Friars Club at NYC Dinner 7:59 AM (4 hours ago)
Is Patsy’s in midtown Manhattan the new Friars Club? It looked like it on a Tuesday night late in March when 100 of the old gang got back together, including some Hamptonites, appropriately enough in the upstairs “Sinatra Room.”
Friar and WPIX reporter Marvin Scott has vacationed in Quogue for years. He also has “40 years of fond Friars memories. The roasts, George Burns, Milton Berle, Jerry Lewis, I miss the club.”
Another Quogue resident, Stanley Friedman dropped by the event. “A certain percentage of the members had to be in show business,” he said. “But a certain percentage were non-show business. I was in politics and practiced law. I was a member since the late 1970s. I saw Freddie Roman there. It was a clubhouse. Every generation had one.”
Other members in the room included Bridgehampton’s Bill McCuddy. “I was an honorary member when they were trying to revive the place. Another Hamptons guy brought me in. Hollywood Producer Mike Tadross. They had a big table in the dining room and if you came in alone they seated you next to Jerry Lewis. It was crazy and cool.”
Singer Julie Budd has performed many times in the Hamptons. She snuck into the Friar’s “before it was also a woman’s club. Eventually they gave me my own night. I sang Sinatra tunes because I worked with him.” She was just one of the performers who roamed the private dining room serenading the crowd. It’s not a young bunch.
Douglas Elliman Real Estate broker Nicholas Compagnone sat at the children’s table, he’s 31. “I met some real characters there. Those are my favorite people.” His uncle Ralph Compagnone was on the board and brought him in. The elder Compagnone says wistfully “I saw Henny Youngman, Joey Adams, it was just very special.”
Other Hamptons members not in attendance include Bill Boggs, Brooke Shields, Carol Alt and producer Jamie deRoy.
Patsy’s man in the kitchen Sal Scognamillo says evenings like this could become a habit. “We miss it, and tonight was an honor, and you’re all welcome back any time.” Friedman has a suggestion if they all want to come to the Hamptons this summer. “Bobby Van’s is nice and it’s centrally located. You can find members from Remsemburg to Montauk.”
Who knows, maybe the ghost of Sinatra will drop by.
Condo at The Bristol Sells for More than Double in 5 Years 7:56 AM (4 hours ago)
A unit in The Bristol in West Palm Beach sold for $14.9 million, more than double the purchase price from just five years ago.
The corner-residence condo is located at 1100 S Flagler Dr #1401, which boasts direct ocean and Intracoastal Waterway views. In 2020, it sold for $6.9 million.
Samantha Curry of Douglas Elliman represented the seller in the latest transaction, and Antoinette Vigilante with Sotheby’s International Realty brought the buyer.
Public records show the buyer is coal heir John W. Rich Jr.
The 4,358-square-foot condo provides three bedrooms and five bathrooms, as well as an office and a spacious wraparound terrace. From the living room and dining area, the office and primary suite, there are spectacular direct ocean and Intracoastal views through 11-foot sliders/windows.
Impressive oversized (24-by-36-inch) large format Dolomiti marble can be found throughout. The condo also features motorized shades, and custom closets.
The Bristol is the one of most amenity rich buildings in the area, with a waterfront fitness center, a beauty salon, two elegant spas, a steam room/sauna/massage treatment rooms, a 75-ft resort-style swimming pool and an indoor/outdoor Jacuzzi, a on-site professional concierge, a front desk, a spacious outdoor entertaining terrace, a club lounge, a private dining room, a card room and a dog park. There is also a full building generator.
Living in the building also comes with three house vehicles with a driver, a gated entrance, and a 24-hour valet. One assigned parking space and two valet parking spaces come with the condo.
Email tvecsey@danspapers.com with further comments, questions or tips. Follow Behind The Hedges on X and Instagram.
Squeeze Frontman Glenn Tilbrook Playing in Amagansett 1:55 AM (10 hours ago)
In the current calendar year, Glenn Tilbrook has been quite the road dog. Since the beginning of 2025, Tilbrook and his Squeeze bandmates spent some time opening on a leg of the Heart tour. From there, he decamped to Houston, where the Squeeze founding member connected with Daryl Hall and his band, opening for the former on his tour while also stealing time away to do solo dates. Between Hall and Heart, Tilbrook, with and without Squeeze, has opened/co-headlined with a number of disparate acts including Boy George, The Psychedelic Furs and an arena tour in the UK alongside ska legends Madness last December. Playing such a self-described “tumble dryer of different shows” is a role the sexagenarian singer-songwriter says he’s happy to embrace as part of Squeeze or as a solo act.
“We’ve taken the view that it’s good to open for as many different people as possible to let their audiences see what we can do,” Difford said. “Our audience has been building. At this late stage, our audience is still growing. In the UK, Squeeze has only just done their first arena shows ever and it’s quite something for us. We’re just trying to pick up other audiences who think they know what Squeeze is. We show some of it, but they don’t really know what we are.”
Tilbrook’s current touring situations finds him playing solo dates as well as opening for Hall, who the power pop veteran first met when Squeeze opened for the latter and his former creative partner John Oates when they were on what became their final tour a few years back. Tilbrook’s admiration for Hall dates back to when “She’s Gone” landed on the UK charts in 1976.
“When ‘She’s Gone’ suddenly got radio play, I was absolutely nuts about that song,” Tilbrook recalled. “What I’ve found in being with Daryl and opening up for him is that while we’re very different, there are still quite a lot of similarities musically in terms of what we’ve listened to and what’s inspired us. I can hear that in his music and my music.”
The Daryl Hall tour has an unusual wrinkle for Tilbrook as he’ll be borrowing the headliner’s band to back him up when opens the show on dates that includes a July 23 stop at Huntington’s Paramount.
“I’ve put all my time into Squeeze over the past 10 years—it’s been pretty unfailing,” Tilbrook said. “With Daryl’s band, I’m playing quite a bit of my solo stuff and it’s great to hear that fleshed out by their musicality. Their band is very different from Squeeze and I’m loving the difference. If you go into any situation, you wonder what the best is that can come out of it given the tools you have. That band is an immaculate bunch of musicians and it’s a pleasure and privilege to play with them.”
But for the London native, the next local stop he’s going to be making is at Stephen Talkouse on April 10. It’s a venue he’s grown to love dating back to the first time he played the club back in the early ‘90s. It’s become enough of a family custom that one of his four sons, who are all musicians, will also be on the bill.
“I’m here with my son Leon Tilbrook, who is opening up,” Tilbrook said with a hint of pride. “He opened at the Talkhouse for a couple of people last year. The thing is, we love playing Stephen Talkhouse. It’s one of those places that’s been on our radar the whole time. It’s been ongoing and lovely to continue that association. I’ve done a bunch of solo shows there. Leon is carrying on in that tradition as he’s played there like six or seven times now.
Since Squeeze came over to the United States for the first time in 1978, Tilbrook has been humbled and grateful for the reception he’s received every time. Being part of a heritage act, he’s noticed how the band’s audience has evolved. While he admits advances like streaming has “…become another criminal enterprise where artists miraculously don’t get paid…,” he admits that it’s provided a gateway to people who might not otherwise be familiar with his band.
“Streaming has opened up our audience in a way that would never have happened where we signed to a label,” Tilbrook said. “The label decides who they’ve going to push and when they’re going to push us. Or conversely, you’re not worth pushing or your time is done, like it occurred to us. We’ve seen our audience grow and I attribute that directly, not only to us being good, but for the availability of our catalog to younger people, who don’t have any sort of barriers about when music was made. They’re just interested in the music and whether they like it or not. I don’t think any other service would done that for us. I don’t think radio could have done that for us. TV could not do that for us, but streaming did.”
Glenn Tilbrook will be appearing on April 10 at Stephen Talkhouse, 61 Main Street, Amagansett. For more information, visit stephentalkhouse.com or call 631-267-3117.
Dan’s Taste Presented by Wilmington Trust 2025 Summer Series Lineup Announced 2 Apr 12:28 PM (yesterday, 12:28 pm)
The Hamptons’ culinary scene is set to sizzle this summer with Dan’s Taste Presented by Wilmington Trust Summer 2025 Series, featuring five exceptional events that celebrate the region’s finest food and drink.
The series kicks off on Memorial Day weekend with Dan’s Rosé Soirée Presented by Wilmington Trust, followed by a new red wine, white wine and beer-forward addition to the lineup on Fourth of July weekend: Red, White & Brews Presented by Wilmington Trust. The season heats up with Chefs of the Hamptons Presented by Wilmington Trust, Dan’s GrillHampton Presented by Wilmington Trust, and culminates with Dan’s White Party Presented by Wilmington Trust.
The five-part annual events at some of the region’s most fabulous venues — making for some of the most sought-after tickets in the Hamptons — is hosted by Dan’s Papers, the only year-round weekly publication covering the entire East End.
“Summer 2025 is set to be the biggest and best parties we have yet to host in the 14 years since Dan’s Taste started the series,” said Josh Schneps, CEO of Schneps Media, the parent company of Dan’s Papers. “We are thrilled to welcome Wilmington Trust as our official naming partner and look forward to the kickoff event Memorial Day weekend to officially start the summer season on the East End.”
Here’s a preview of what’s on tap:
Dan’s Taste Summer Series Presented by Wilmington Trust 2025
Dan’s Rosé Soirée Presented by Wilmington Trust will be held May 25 at Southampton Arts Center. Kicking off the season, the Rosé Soirée is a tribute to the world’s finest rosés, including selections from around the world, Hamptons and the North Fork. Guests can indulge in exquisite bites prepared by Long Island’s top chefs while enjoying live music in a vibrant atmosphere.
Red, White & Brews Presented by Wilmington Trust is slated for July 5 at Southampton Arts Center. Guests will celebrate Independence Day weekend with a festive gathering that offers a curated selection of red and white wines alongside the best in craft brews. Savor cuisine from renowned Long Island chefs and partake in the patriotic spirit with fellow attendees.
Chefs of the Hamptons Presented by Wilmington Trust returns on July 17 at Sí Sí at EHP Resort & Marina. This highly anticipated event brings together the Hamptons’ top culinary talents for an unforgettable evening. Guests will experience a diverse array of dishes, each showcasing the chefs’ creativity and the region’s rich flavors, all in a picturesque waterfront setting.
Dan’s GrillHampton Presented by Wilmington Trust is set for Aug. 2 at ClubHouse Hamptons. A highlight of the summer, GrillHampton features a thrilling cooking competition where chefs go head-to-head, presenting their best grilled creations. Attendees can enjoy a variety of grilled fare, complemented by beer, wine, and specialty cocktails, with live music setting the stage for an evening of fun and friendly rivalry.
Dan’s White Party Presented by Wilmington Trust is back on Aug. 16 at RGNY. Concluding the series, the White Party invites guests to don their most stylish white attire for an elegant evening featuring top cuisine at one of the hottest North Fork vineyards. With smooth cocktails, fine wines, and beers, attendees can revel in the chic ambiance making it a night to remember.
“We look forward to welcoming an incredible collection of talented chefs, top wines, cocktails, beers, beverages and extraordinary sponsors like our presenting sponsor Wilmington Trust,” said Elizabeth Aloni, senior vice president of events of Schneps Media. “These carefully curated elements come together to co-create the hottest parties of the Hamptons summer. The countdown begins!”
In addition to the presenting sponsor Wilmington Trust, this year’s sponsors include Manhattan Beer & Beverages Distributors, Adamas, Fishers Island Lemonade, Twisted Cow Distillery, Oceanview Landscapes, Long Island Ice & Fuel, NEC, Preferred Events, East 27 Creative and Great Jones with opportunities for sponsors and chefs still available.
Each event in Dan’s Taste 2025 Summer Series offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the Hamptons’ vibrant culinary culture, promising unforgettable experiences for all who attend.Tickets for all events are on sale now.
For tickets and more information visit DansTaste.com
Exploring the Art of the Steal & the Art of Law 2 Apr 9:13 AM (yesterday, 9:13 am)
Before moving to New York City, a California woman stored her possessions in a North Hollywood self-storage facility, including four Andy Warhol prints. When she fell behind on rent, the facility auctioned off the contents, setting off a kind of Andy Warhol war that the prince of pop art might have enjoyed.
“When they cut the lock off, these four original prints were in that storage locker,” said Adam Russ, a partner at Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, who specializes in the artwork. “He consigned those to an auction house in New York, which listed the pieces for sale. Then, the person who rented that storage locker came forward and claimed ownership.”
After the tug of war over Warhols began, Russ and Douglas Wasser, now co-chairs of the Ruskin Moscou Fine Art Law Practice Group, represented Christie’s and, subsequently, the 19-year-old who donated the paintings to the auction house.
Recognizing the impending cost of litigation, the parties reached an agreement during what was just another day at the office for these attorneys specializing in the law and the law of art.
“The question was whether the parties wanted to spend five years and hundreds of thousands of dollars going through court proceedings or if it was more expedient to cut a deal?” Russ said.
Russ and Wasser are art experts, not connoisseurs, who assess paintings. They are attorneys who represent artists, collectors, galleries, dealers, and auction houses in a wide range of art disputes. Russ refers to these cases as “significant matters.”
“We’re here to support participants in the art industry through every stage of fine art transactions and disputes, whether they are buying, selling, advising, or facing legal challenges,” Wasser added.
Russ mentioned that they have dealt with authentic and inauthentic objects, including drawings, paintings, photographs, and sculptures. These consist of works by Leonardo Da Vinci, Willem and Elaine de Kooning, Warhol, Calder, and Eggleston, as well as classical antiquities, pre-Columbian artifacts, antique furniture, and Hollywood memorabilia and collectibles.
“We have extensive knowledge and experience in the specialized field of art law, and we can utilize the full resources of Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C. for our clients,” Russ said.
Besides attorneys specializing in art and law, they can also consult lawyers skilled in litigation, alternative dispute resolution, banking, corporate matters, bankruptcy, intellectual property, information technology, and trusts and estates.
“It’s always about money,” Russ said, pointing out that beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but the struggle is often centered on financial aspects. “What I’ve discovered over the years is that there’s always a commonality of facts.”
Although Russ enjoys being an attorney, he got involved in art as a painter, not a litigator. “I painted for fun through college,” he said. “I took college-level painting courses. I wasn’t an art major, just a person who enjoyed painting.”
His first job in New York was at a firm where a lawyer worked with Christie’s auction house. He soon became involved in cases involving the ownership and authenticity of artwork in and around Manhattan.
“Art, when stripped of the pretense and the fanciness, is property like anything else,” Russ said.
The duo was involved in the theft of works by Willem and Elaine de Kooning entrusted to an art framer. The attorneys helped recover them through litigation.
Russ emphasized that contracts are essential; without them, artwork can end up lost in limbo, as was the case with Lawrence B. Salander, the owner of the Salander-O’Reilly Galleries in New York City. He sold art without permission, filed for personal bankruptcy, pleaded guilty in 2010 to 29 felony counts of grand larceny, and was sentenced to six to 18 years in prison.
“The proceeds of sales of paintings went poof,” said Russ, who wasn’t involved in the case. “A lot of the headaches could have been avoided with good consignment agreements.”
Contracts spell out who must insure art when it changes hands and the obligations from successful auction bids.
“A lot of cases in the early days involved people who didn’t have the money or who realized they got carried away in the auction room,” Russ said.
Valuable paintings can end up caught up in disputes related to poor estate planning without documents or a corporate entity controlling art for succession planning.
“We’ve seen intra-family disputes over the ownership and control of the artwork,” Russ said.
They assisted an artist in framing a consignment agreement with Bergdorf Goodman to showcase her paintings, prints, and furniture in their housewares department for one month. They also supported her in drafting an agreement for a reality series that wished to feature some of her artwork in an office.
When a handful of pieces of art valued at at least six figures were damaged during a flood from Superstorm Sandy on the ground floor of an art storage facility in Red Hook, Brooklyn, they represented the storage facility.
“We had to address people’s claims for damage,” Russ said. “We also had to engage with the actual clients who stored items at their facility.”
AI is becoming a major issue in the art world, with questions about whether artists, computers, or a combination created work.
“The copyright office just issued the first copyright to an AI-assisted creation of artwork,” Russ said. “Things created wholly by AI don’t qualify for copyright protection. But if there is human involvement in the creation, they can.”
Authenticating art is getting tougher, because many artists’ foundations have gotten out of the authentication business. “They don’t want to get dragged into litigation,” Russ said.
Last year, they got an Alexander Calder mobile authenticated by the artist’s foundation, which concluded that the two top and bottom pieces weren’t part of a matching set. “They weren’t created together and weren’t supposed to be together,” Russ added.
After discovering that other collectors had mismatched art, they negotiated a deal to exchange their mismatched pieces for a genuine, verified mobile.
“We enabled the foundation to begin reuniting bases with tops for several individuals,” Russ stated. “We were pioneers. No one else was prepared to undertake this before us.”
Grant Haffner Attempts to Paint the Perfect East End Road 2 Apr 8:45 AM (yesterday, 8:45 am)
An East End native now living in Western Massachusetts, beloved artist and cofounder of the Bonac Tonic art collective, Grant Haffner speaks about his latest Dan’s Papers cover art, “Backroads, Napeague Meadow Road,” his process and an exciting new project that is allowing him to once again showcase artists he loves.
A Chat with Grant Haffner
Tell me about this painting. Where is this road? Or is it purely from your imagination?
Among all the beautiful roads on the East End, Napeague Meadow Road is one of my absolute favorites. This country side road; darting off of the Montauk Stretch, lined with telephone poles cutting through the salt marsh, is a recurring inspirational location that I have used throughout my Backroads series. I wanted to capture the feeling that you get when driving down that road, after a long day, heading into the sunset.
Can you talk about your painting process? What media and techniques do you use?
When I think about making a painting, I liken it to creating an object. I want the painting to have a strong presence on the wall, to become a window for the viewer to visually escape into. I like to paint real locations. I use acrylics. I prefer painting on wood and like to have flat, smooth surfaces to work on. I enjoy taking the time to prepare the wood panel for the art. My approach to making paintings is a multi-step process, starting with a solid drawing of a scene using a photograph of a road that I like as reference. The use of color is a great way to bring mood and emotion into the artwork as well as explore my imagination. I do my best to “work it out on the canvas” and create something that ultimately I enjoy looking at.
I know the East End certainly plays a strong role in your work. What has it been like since you moved to Massachusetts? Have you found inspiration there?
It has been a challenge leaving the landscape of the East End and the endless inspiration that I feel there. The flat horizon of Long Island was instrumental in helping me define my style and the space within my artwork. I miss how easy it is to see the sun rise and set at sea level. Moving to the mountainous hills of Western Massachusetts has given me a totally different view and perspective to contemplate and interpret into my colorful paintings. The roads here cut through the terrain and ride on top of the elevation which allows for some fun ways to explore pulling your eye into the visual experience.
You have been a great advocate of showing other artists, especially through your old Bonac Tonic art collective. Are you still trying to show and promote fellow artists?
The artist community out east is extraordinarily special. It was such a joy to find, engage and work with the artists that live out there. The Bonac Tonic Art Collective brought together so many talented artists, but more importantly for me it was a lot of fun. It provided outlets for all of us to hang out together, experiment with artwork, platform other artists, blossom and grow. It also created a lasting impact with valuable connections and friends that I still have today. I really do miss working with other artists and honestly I think it’s time to do it again! I am happy to announce today that The Sweet Phoenix, located at 281 Main Street in Greenfield, Massachusetts, is opening up a small gallery space and they are giving me the opportunity to help curate.
A gallery space! That’s exciting! What kind of art are you hoping to show?
I want to bring back those fun vibes we felt from the early Bonac Tonic days and have a creative space where new emerging talent can meet to talk about and exhibit art. Artists are everywhere hiding in their studios, and after many years of being online it would be so much fun to meet the ones that are making art right here.
What kind of paintings are you making lately? Any new shows or projects in the works?
I am still very much dedicated to my personal quest to paint the perfect road landscape. There are so many more roads I need to travel down. Being on the road is such a big part of our daily lives and culture. I want to tap into that emotional nostalgia felt when driving seemingly mundane roads, that feeling triggered by unordinary intersections, ingrained in our subconscious, existing happily in our memories.
Where can people see your stuff, online and in person?
Currently my artwork is available through the Tambaran 2 Gallery in NYC (5 E 82nd Street #2), and Sebastian Foster located in Austin, TX. Please visit granthaffner.com for links to all my artwork and projects.
Is there anything you’d like to add?
Virgil is still the frogboy.
Wow Summer Guests & Yourself by Renovating with Windows & Walls Unlimited 2 Apr 7:57 AM (yesterday, 7:57 am)
Summer is on the horizon in the Hamptons, and there’s no better time than now to start some renovations that will both impress your summer guests and make your house – indoor and outdoor – more comfortable just for you.
The best place to start is Windows & Walls Unlimited in Southampton.
Founded by Linda and Paul Nuszen of Patchogue, Windows & Walls Unlimited is all in the name; window treatments, wall treatments, drapery, and a brand new product line of outdoor screens. They are an exclusive award-winning Hunter Douglas gallery dealer and showroom, adding to the prestige of Windows & Walls’ operation.
“It was an idea that my father had,” Linda Nuszen said. “He owned Sybelle Carpet along with my brother in town. And he came to me & my sister, and said, ‘What do you think? What would be good allies to the carpet?’ My sister created a furniture showroom and we came up with window treatments; blinds and verticals way back then. Who knew what it would grow into?”
What sets Windows & Walls Unlimited apart from its competitors is that everything is custom made, with Linda and Paul taking great care to make sure that whatever their customers receive fits their home well.
“Linda has the ability to read the customer and help them narrow down what they are interested or should be looking for, and that helps a lot,” Paul said.
Coupled with their sales skills, Linda and Paul have been able to pioneer Windows & Walls Unlimited through the decades of change in the Hamptons, saying that originally business would come in waves depending on the time of year, but since the turn of the century with more year-round residents, business is always booming year round.
Besides all the innovative window treatments, perhaps the most exciting new feature at Windows & Walls Unlimited is MagnaTrack – a motorized retractable outdoor screen that can fit any space.
As the weather warms up and the days are longer, we want to stay outside in our back yards longer.
These Magnatrack shades create a screened area when extra protection is needed.
“They have the unique flexibility that if you wish to use them for bug protection, it’s one type of material, if you are trying to reduce the wind and the rain from coming in, it’s a different type of material,” Paul added. “And if you want hurricane protection, these will handle up to 165 mile an hour winds.”
Windows & Walls Unlimited has been serving the East End & The East Coast for 40 years.
The Nuszens are particularly grateful for the role they have played in the Hamptons community for 40 years, noting that they have served multiple generations of Hamptons homeowners.
“We have found that when they hear our voice or when we recognize them, it’s like coming back home,” Linda said. “We’re doing children of previous customers’ homes, the next generations’ homes and that is based on trust. It’s nice to know that we have made a difference in many people’s homes and lives over the past 40 years.
“It’s not just about the consumer, it’s also about the incredible staff we have. Over the years, they have been the best in the industry, experienced with great knowledge, integrity and endless commitment.”
Windows & Walls Unlimited is located at 375 County Rd 39 in Southampton and can be reached at 631-287-1515.
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