From Screen to Scene: Leesa Rowland Celebrates the
Hamptons Summer Season at Marina St. Barth and to Benefit
Hamptons Summer Songbook by-the-Sea
Actress/Philanthropist Leesa Rowland (Photo Credit: David Warren SIPA for AP)
Marina Cocher (Photo Credit: David Warren SIPA for AP)
Larry Wohl, Leesa Rowland (Photo Credit: David Warren SIPA for AP)
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Carole Alexander, Victoria Schneps (Photo Credit: David Warren SIPA for AP)
Donna Rubin Photo Credit: David Warren SIPA for AP)
Jean Shafiroff (Photo Credit: David Warren SIPA for AP)
TV HOST COGNAC WELLERLANE POSES FOR A PHOTO-OP
Actress, author, and philanthropist Leesa Rowland hosted an afternoon celebration at Marina St. Barth in Southampton in honor of her new cover in Mann About Town. The occasion also marked an unofficial kickoff to the 2025 Hamptons summer season.
Known for her presence on screen and in society circles, Rowland is also the founder of Animal Ashram, a nonprofit supporting animal welfare. Her effervescent spirit and signature style were on full display as she greeted guests and posed with her magazine cover.
With locations in both Southampton and East Hampton, as well as Florida and online at her website, the Marina St. Barth boutique is a beacon of resort chic—an extension of the lifestyle Marina Cocher, founder, brought with her from the French Caribbean Island of St. Barthélemy. This season, Marina St. Barth has a fresh edit of must-have pieces from iconic and emerging designers, tailored for beachside brunches, sunset soirées, and everything in between.
The festive affair featured BIATCH Tequila—the unapologetically bold, 100% woman-owned brand known for combining traditional Mexican craftsmanship with edgy modern flair—and Wainscott Main Wine & Spirits, which served their signature rosé and select summer pours.
On hand was designer Carole Alexander, showcasing her Alexander by Design summer handbag collection—luxurious, hand-adorned totes that combine classic craftsmanship with playful inspiration. The brand’s whimsical Amalfi-inspired styles were a hit among attendees. All the while the stylish boutique with its of-the-moment summer styles provided the perfect backdrop to the festivities.
Notable attendees included: Leesa Rowland, Peter Thomas Roth, Jean Shafiroff, Victoria Schneps, Carole Alexander, Larry Wohl, Maribel Lieberman, Marina Cocher, Hank Stampfl, Donna Rubin, Pamela Morgan, Kobi Halperin, Kathy Prounis, Noreen Donovan and passer-by Financier John Paulson took a moment to greet guests.
The event benefited Hamptons Summer Songbook by-the-Sea, an acclaimed musical initiative produced by Donna Rubin and Josh Gladstone of LTV, which brings theatrical excellence and Broadway-caliber talent to the East End through special concerts and performances all summer long.
About Leesa Rowland:
The daughter of an artist and college professor, Leesa Rowland grew up in Austin, Texas where she studied broadcast journalism and later became a classically trained actress at the world-renowned Stella Adler Studio in Los Angeles.
Beyond her extensive career and credits as a film and television actress, she is also well-known for her work as a philanthropist and animal rights activist. A vegan dedicated to healthy eating, she has been active with the national non-profit organization Last Chance for Animals since 1989 and is the president of the New York non-profit group Animal Ashram, which she founded in 2013.
As she continues to develop her work as a philanthropist and involvement with these and other charities while exploring new dramatic roles, Leesa recently began adding something else exciting to her sizzle reel: comedienne. A lifelong sitcom fan, she has been taking comedy classes with Richard Kline - the actor best known as Larry on the late-1970s classic Three’s Company - in Los Angeles. She has also been studying improv and sketch comedy in New York at the famed Upright Citizen’s Brigade whose alumni include Amy Poehler, Horatio Sands, Matt Besser, Matt Walsh and Ian McKay.
For more information, visit leesarowland.net.
PRESS CONTACT (Leesa Rowland, Jean Shafiroff, Marina St. Barth, Mariebelle New York, BIATCH Tequila, Alexander by Design, Wainscott Main Wine & Spirits, Hamptons Summer Songbook by-the-sea):
Norah Lawlor | Lawlor Media Group | www.lawlormediagroup.com
Norah@lawlormediagroup.com | Tel: (212) 967-6900
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Shopping Event to Benefit the American Heart Association Association at J MCLAUGHLIN Boutique in Southampton
Cognac Wellerlane poses for a photo-op at Shopping Event to benefit the American Heart Association Association at J MCLAUGHLIN Boutique in Southampton
Luciana Pampalone and Fern Mallis pose for a photo-op at Shopping Event to benefit the American Heart Association Association at J MCLAUGHLIN Boutique in Southampton
I was happy to cover a very special Shopping Event to benefit the American Heart Association Association at J MCLAUGHLIN Boutique in Southampton the American Heart Association ❤️Many came to enjoy the special Sip & Shop event! 🥂🛍
The event took place on Saturday, April 5th from 1–4 PM at J.McLaughlin in Southampton, NY.
It was a wonderful afternoon of sipping, shopping, and supporting a great cause. A portion of proceeds will benefit the AHA and help fight heart disease and stroke.
I was invited by Luciana Pampalone and David Warren.
Luciana Pampalone and David Warren are a dynamic duo known for their entrepreneurial endeavors and influential presence as a couple. Their vibrant energy and forward-thinking mindset have garnered attention and admiration, earning them a spot on George Wayne's list of top 100 Creative Influencers in Manhattan for 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Together, they venture into various creative projects across different platforms such as podcasts, art galleries, and fashion events. Luciana Pampalone's art exhibitions have been well-received, while David Warren's knack for capturing captivating moments at red carpet events and fashion shows has gained him recognition, with his photos often featured by the Associated Press.
The event also promoted The Heart of the Hamptons Sand & Style Soirée
The Heart of the Hamptons campaign is a year-round initiative that gathers the local community to join the fight against our nations number 1 killer, cardiovascular disease. At the Heart of the Hamptons Sand & Style Soirée, we will celebrate our collective success in driving change, funding science, and improving health outcomes for everyone, everywhere. Join us this year at the iconic Bridgehampton Tennis and Surf Club. With the ocean as our backdrop, we will come together for an inspiring evening of elegance, and connection, all in support of our mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
Fern Mallis, the creator of New York Fashion Week, was honored at the "Heart of the Hamptons" event, specifically the "Sand & Style Soirée" with an "Impact Award" from the American Heart Association.
Hailed as the award-winning creator of New York Fashion Week, Fern Mallis has been called an industry titan, fashion doyenne, and the godmother of fashion. She is an accomplished interviewer, inspirational public speaker, sought-after consultant. and widely quoted in the fashion press and broadcast media.
For more information please visit https://www.heart.org/
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TV Host Cognac Wellerlane poses for a photo-op wearing Ralph Lauren Boots in the Exclusive Shoe Salon of The Women's Store Ralph Lauren on Madison Avenue, NY
32nd Annual Miracle on Madison Avenue: Saturday December 1
Many made their holiday shopping count for so much more this past Saturday as 20% of their purchase at participating boutiques on Madison Avenue will be donated to the pediatric initiatives of The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Madison Avenue, on the tony Upper East Side of Manhattan, is North America’s premier luxury district. Madison Avenue features the flagship boutiques of the finest European and American designers; celebrated restaurants; spas and salons for exclusive pampering; five internationally renowned hotels; The Met Breuer museum and over one hundred galleries. Madison Avenue exhibits timeless elegance with a contemporary flavor that is distinctively New York. This boulevard of understated charm is sure to entice your senses with indulgences from all corners of the globe if you decide to shop on this celebrated location in Manhattan.
The magic of Miracle on Madison Avenue reappears on December 1, from 10am to 5pm. A cherished New York City shopping tradition for 32 years, Miracle on Madison is the day to fill your holiday gift list as 20 percent of the day’s sales (up to $15,000 per store) will benefit the pediatric initiatives of The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. On the Avenue patrons met Santa (Old St. Nick was on Madison Ave between E 82 and E 83 Streets much of the day), MSK’s beloved therapy dogs – the Caring Canines, and costumed carolers were strolling up and down Madison to spread good cheer. Shoppers Warmed up and shopped at participating stores, where there was champagne toasts and treats galore.
Participating Retailers (Name, Address, Cross Streets)
Aaron Basha, 673 Madison Avenue (61-62)
Alexandre Birman, 957 Madison Avenue (75-76)
Alexis Bittar, 1100 Madison Avenue (82-83)
alice + olivia, 755 Madison Avenue (65-66)
Anne Fontaine, 837 Madison Avenue (69-70)
Apple, 940 Madison Avenue (74-75)
Aquatalia, 965 Madison Avenue (75-76)
Atelier Cologne, 950 Madison Avenue (74-75)
Baahng Gallery, 790 Madison Avenue (66-67)
Baccarat, 635 Madison Avenue (59-60)
Barton Perreira, 42 East 66 Street (66-66)
Bond No 9 New York, 897 Madison Avenue (72-73)
Bonpoint, 805 Madison Avenue (67-68)
Carolina Herrera, 954 Madison Avenue (75-76)
Christofle, 846 Madison Avenue (69-70)
Clergerie Paris, 901 Madison Avenue (72-73)
Davide Cenci Inc, 1015 Madison Avenue (78-79)
De Beers Jewellers, 716 Madison Avenue (63-64)
Erik Thomsen Gallery, 23 East 67 Street, 4th Fl (67-67)
Etro, 720 Madison Avenue (63-64)
Frances Valentine, 793 Madison Avenue (67-68)
Frette,799 Madison Avenue (67-68)
Gagosian Shop, 976 Madison Avenue (76-77)
Giorgio Armani, 760 Madison Avenue (65-66)
Giuseppe Zanotti Madison Avenue Boutique, 806 Madison Avenue (67-68)
Hueb, 717 Madison Avenue (63-64)
Ippolita, 796 Madison Avenue (67-68)
Iro, 1013 Madison Avenue (78-79)
Isabel Marant Uptown, 23 East 67 Street
Jaded Jewels, Inc., 1048 Madison Avenue (79-80)
Jennifer Tattanelli, 1082 Madison Avenue (81-82)
Jimmy Choo, 699 Madison Avenue (62-63)
Johnny Was, 1070 Madison Avenue (80-81)
kate spade new york, 789 Madison Avenue (66-67)
Kwiat / Fred Leighton, 773 Madison Avenue (66-67)
La Maison du Chocolat, 1018 Madison Avenue (78-79)
Lalique Boutique, 609 Madison Avenue (57-58)
Lilly Pulitzer, 1020 Madison Avenue (78-79)
Lutwyche, 717 Madison Avenue, Suite 3 (63-64)
Madewell, 1144 Madison Avenue (84-85)
Manrico Cashmere, 922 Madison Avenue (73-74)
Mardani Fine Minerals, 766 Madison Avenue (65-66)
Marina B, 18 East 67 Street, Suite 2C
Michael Kors Collection, 790 Madison Avenue
Michael Kors Lifestyle, 667 Madison Avenue
Michael’s Luxury Consignment for Women, 1125 Madison Avenue (84-85)
Monique Lhuillier, 19 East 71 Street
Morgenthal Frederics, 680 Madison Avenue (61-62)
Morgenthal Frederics, 944 Madison Avenue (74-75)
Morgenthal Frederics, 1155 Madison Avenue (85-86)
N. Peal London, 952 Madison Avenue (74-75)
NARS Cosmetics, 971 Madison Avenue (75-76)
Paul Morelli, 895 Madison Avenue (72-73)
Ralph Lauren Men’s Flagship, 867 Madison Avenue (71-72)
Ralph Lauren Women’s Flagship, 888 Madison Avenue (71-72)
Ralph Lauren Boy’s, 878 Madison Avenue (71-72)
Ralph Lauren Girl’s, 872 Madison Avenue (71-72)
Rebecca Taylor, 980 Madison Avenue (76-77)
Robert Marc, 782 Madison Avenue(66-67)
Robert Marc, 1046 Madison Avenue (79-80)
Roberto Cavalli, 711 Madison Avenue (63-64)
Sanjay Kasliwal, 971 Madison Avenue (75-76)
Smythson, 667 Madison Avenue (60-61)
Stephen Russell, 970 Madison Avenue (75-76)
Stuart Weitzman, 625 Madison Avenue (58-59)
Theory,1157 Madison Avenue (85-86)
Tory Burch, 797 Madison Avenue (67-68)
Twain Time, 19 East 69 Street
Velvet by Graham and Spencer, 1133 Madison Avenue (84-85)
Veronica Beard, 988 Madison Avenue (76-77)
Vilebrequin, 1007 Madison Avenue (77-78)
Vince, 980 Madison Avenue (76-77)
Wolford, 619 Madison Avenue (58-59)
Wolford, 997 Madison Avenue (77-78)
Zitomer, 969 Madison Avenue (75-76)
About The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center:
This will be the seventh year that Miracle on Madison Avenue has raised funds targeted to the pediatric initiatives of The Society of MSK, a volunteer-led organization within MSK dedicated to promoting the well-being of patients, supporting cancer research, and providing public education on the early prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer. As the world’s oldest and largest private cancer center, MSK has devoted more than a century to advancing the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer. With a passionate commitment to exceptional patient care, cutting-edge research, and superb educational programs, MSK has earned the distinction as one of the premier cancer centers worldwide.
For more information please visit https://madisonavenuebid.org
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32nd Annual Miracle on Madison
CHAMPTIONS FOR CHARITY AT THE AMERICANA MALL In Manhasset, NY
TV Host Cognac Wellerlane poses for a photo-op at Champions for Charity Event at The Americana Mall in Manhasset, NY
On Thursday, November 29 through Sunday, December 2
patrons that Joined in for The Americana Manhasset annual holiday shopping benefit in support of their community! 25% of everyone that participated in purchasing a full-price pre-tax purchases at participating Americana Manhasset and select Wheatley Plaza stores will be donated to the participating organization(s) of their choice.
Thursday, November 29 through Sunday, December 2
Join us for our annual holiday shopping benefit in support of our community! 25% of your full-price pre-tax purchases at participating Americana Manhasset and select Wheatley Plaza stores will be donated to the participating organization(s) of your choice.
CHAMPIONS FOR CHARITY HOURS
Thursday - Saturday • 10am to 8pm
Sunday • 11am to 7pm
VIEW CHAMPION PROFILE
About Champions for Charity®
HOW IT WORKS:
Once registration opens, you will be able to register for your complimentary CHAMPION NUMBER here. Simply present your CHAMPION NUMBER on Thursday, November 29 through Sunday, December 2 at participating stores at the time of each purchase and 25% of your full-price, pre-tax purchases will be donated to the organization(s) of your choice. Your CHAMPION NUMBER is not a charge card, a debit card or a payment card of any kind. Any form of payment may be used with it. Over 70 stores participate to benefit over 130 not-for-profit organizations!
Donations will be made on full-price merchandise only, subject to individual store policy. Your purchases are not automatically eligible. Your CHAMPION NUMBER is required to allocate your donation and MUST be presented at the time of each purchase. Returns or exchanges made on merchandise purchased towards Champions for Charity® are subject to individual store policy. Participating store gift certificates and special order merchandise are subject to individual store policy. Americana Manhasset GiftCards purchased during Champions for Charity® are eligible for a 10% donation. Americana Manhasset GiftCards purchased and redeemed during Champions for Charity® are eligible for a 25% total donation. American Express® gift cards purchased during Champions for Charity® are not eligible for any donation.
Since its inception in 1996, Champions for Charity® has raised nearly 12 million dollars. Taking an active role in the community has been an integral part of Castagna Realty Retail Group’s mission, particularly throughout Americana Manhasset’s 61 year history.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS- Click to view details
NOVEMBER 29 THURSDAY
Party with the Veronicas at Veronica Beard, and support Kat's Ribbon of Hope and The Long Island Children's Museum!
Holiday calligraphy, engraving, Creations Champagne and chocolate tasting, with catering by Sant Ambroeus at Salvatore Ferragamo.
Live graffiti art and music at Coach.
Informal modeling by Wolford and London Jewelers at Toku Modern Asian.
Support furry friends at London Jewelers and Tiffany & Co.
Shop with designer Anne Fontaine.
Hand-engraving and live music at Tiffany & Co.
Have your sneaker purchases at Sneakerology customized by Jordana, and support Schechter School Long Island.
Support New York Young Entrepreneurs Roundtable and International Leadership Foundation at Prada.
Bottega Veneta and The Long Island Chinese American Association invite you to celebrate the holiday season!
Shop and support Elija Farm CSA at Dior.
Receive complimentary embroidery on denim and more at Rag & Bone.
Join us at Sneakerology for a Fit Fundraising YMCA kick-off brunch. Enjoy yogurt parfaits, mimosas and fruit, giveaways and more.
NOVEMBER 30 FRIDAY
Shop and support Sands Point Preserve Conservancy at Burberry.
Come celebrate with us at Ralph Lauren, for some holiday carols performed by St. Mary's Elementary School Choir.
NOVEMBER 29 THURSDAY- 30 FRIDAY
Hand-painting and personalization by artist Mison Kim at Tory Burch.
NOVEMBER 29 THURSDAY - DECEMBER 1 SATURDAY
Join us at Bandier:
Workout with Amanda Kamm, enjoy complimentary customization, visit the braid bar by nuBest, experience cryo facials by Cryology and more!
DECEMBER 1 SATURDAY
Meet LL Cool J and Simone I. Smith at Hirshleifers!
The Gambino Family, & Lilly Street invite you to support Gambino Medical Science Foundation supporting Cohen Children's Medical Center at Hirshleifers.
AND MUCH MORE!
For more information please visit https://www.americanamanhasset.com
Keep reading Cognac's Corner Magazine for the very best in Shopping Experiences in New York, Long Island and the Hamptons.
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