Celebrities

    Latest

    Katie Couric Leads 220 Runners at Sixth Annual Race of Hope & Raises $325,000

    By
    Roz
    -
    . Audrey Gruss, Arthur Dunnam, Katie Couric_new york gossip gal,hope for depression
    . Audrey Gruss, Arthur Dunnam, Katie Couric_Photo Credit Sean Zanni :PMC

    On Sunday, August 8th, Katie Couric led 220 participants at the sixth annual 5K Race of Hope to Defeat Depression in Southampton, helping to raise $325,000 for advanced depression research.

    Jenny Paulson, Giselle Paulson, Danielle Paulson, John Paulson: Credit Sean Zanni :PMC

    The Hope for Depression Research Foundation’s Sixth Annual 5K Race of Hope gathered 220 men, women, and children on Sunday morning in Southampton Village in support of mental health awareness and research.  Iconic journalist Katie Couric cheered the crowd as Celebrity Grand Marshal during the festive event that raised $325,000 for research into new and better treatments for depression and anxiety. 

    “Mental health is such a critically important issue, and it’s heartening to see it come out of the woodwork in a way that is unprecedented,” said Couric, speaking from the steps of the Southampton Cultural Center right before the 8:30 am starting gun.

    . Martin Gruss, Karen LeFrak, Audrey Gruss, Richard LeFrak, Credit: Sean Zanni :PMC

    She added:  “HDRF gathers all the top-rated brain scientists in the country and the world to figure out how to tackle these psychological issues, because they are like physical issues and they should be treated as such. A better understanding of how our brains work and how our brain chemistry works — it’s so important.”

    HDRF Founding Chair Audrey Gruss and Board member Arthur Dunnam, both Hamptons residents, also stood with Couric as Co-Grand Marshals of the 5K walk/run, which is a USA Track and Field-sanctioned event. 

    “I founded HDRF to lead research in the causes of depression and in their treatment,” said Gruss to the crowd.  “Due to you and your support out here every year for five years, HDRF is now the leading depression research organization in the country. We have several new treatments in clinical trials and we won’t quit until there’s a cure.” 

    At the starting gun, participants set off in staggered waves to complete the 3.1-mile course around Lake Agawam and the tree-lined streets of Southampton, NY.   Many sported hats, shirts and vests in HDRF’s signature yellow, creating a sea of sunshine against the backdrop of cloudy skies. 

    The staggered heats were a safety measure to avoid crowding and ensure a safe return to in person racing.  While fundraising broke records, the number of participants was down compared to normal years with turn-outs of over 700.  This is likely due to the slow reopening of public life and multiple demands on our time in the post-Covid era. 

    Along with the in-person event, HDRF Race organizers also provided a virtual “opening ceremony” for another 300 participants who signed up to complete the distance in their own hometowns.   A live broadcast streamed on the HDRF website, featuring messages of hope from runners across the country and a countdown to the 8:30 AM starting gun.

    At the close of the Race, Audrey Gruss handed out Awards for several categories. First Prize for best male time went to Sergey Avramenko, and First Prize for the best female time went to Una Broderick.   The Award for Top Fundraising Team went to Jessica Wagner and Team Wagner, which raised $2,000.  The Award for Top Individual Fundraiser went to Arthur Dunnam, who raised $36,468 from friends and family for his race.  The award for largest team went to Natasha Jefferies and her team, Dakari’s Heartbeat, with 13 members.  

    Kim Heirston, Louisa Benton, Tania Higgins /Photo Credit Sean Zanni :PMC

    All race participants received an ultra-lightweight vest, hat, race shirt, mask, and finisher medal.  The first, second, and third place winners received cash prizes of up to $500. Successful fundraisers also received special prizes for raising upwards of $250 and $1,000. 

    Race participants included: Lisa M. Aery, Carolina Benabib, Bill Bone, Janna Bullock, Jamee and Peter Gregory, Kim Heirston, Tania Higgins, Karen and Richard LeFrak, Matt Oleszczuk, Jenny and John Paulson, James and Teresa Remez and their daughters Sofia and Lila, Mirella Cameran-Reilly, Kevin Richards, Scott Snyder, Susan and Rob Taylor, Victoria Wyman, Clelia & Tom Zacharias and Richard Ziegelasch.

    Maria, Kenneth, and Bradley Fishel welcomed guests to their Bridgehampton, NY estate for Polo Hamptons Pre-Cocktails with model Christie Brinkley

    By
    Roz
    -
    enneth Fishel, Maria Fishel, Christie Brinkley, Bradley Fishel ,new york gossip gal,post hamptons
    Kenneth Fishel, Maria Fishel, Christie Brinkley, Bradley Fishel photo credit Patrick McMulla
    Ramona Singer photo credit Patrick McMullan

    Maria, Kenneth, and Bradley Fishel welcomed guests to their Bridgehampton, NY estate for Polo Hamptons Pre-Cocktails with model Christie Brinkley. Guests mingled the Fishel’s soiree prior to watching the thrilling, annual Polo match.

    Notable attendees included: Maria Fishel, Kenneth Fishel, Bradley Fishel, Ramona Singer, Jean Shafiroff, Ruth Miller, Paula Smalley, Randi Schatz, Ann Van Ness, Dr. Bernard, Jeanne and Alexandra Schayes, Cheri Kaufman, Austin Wright, Alison Mitchell, Nurit Kahane, Jacqueline Murphy, Suzan Kremer, Andrea Wernick, Yan Assoun, Polina Proshkina, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Vivian Louthan, Eugenia Valliades.

    After the Fishel’s soiree, guests made their way to the Polo Hamptons field for the afternoon matches. There, Maria Fishel partnered with DOLCE & GABBANA as they presented their exclusive Carretto Collection during the event. The collection was displayed and available for purchase in a 70’s themed van.

    Maria Fishel, Kenneth Fishel photo credit Patrick McMullan

    Katie Couric to be Celebrity Grand Marshal of the Sixth Annual Race of Hope in Southampton Aug. 8th

    By
    Roz
    -
    katie couric,hope for depression research,race of hope,audrey gruss,new york gossip gal
    Katie Couric/Credit: Hope for Depression Race of Hope 2021

    Iconic journalist Katie Couric, has been named the Celebrity Grand Marshal for the Sixth Annual Race of Hope, which returns to Southampton this summer as an in-person experience on Sunday, August 8th.

    HDRF Founding Chair Audrey Gruss and Arthur Dunnam, both Hamptons residents, will join Couric as Co-Grand Marshals of the 2021 Race. They will lead racers on a gorgeous loop around Lake Agawam in Southampton Village. The event has continued to evolve and grow with 750 participants in 2019 and has raised over 1 million dollars for depression research since its inception in 2016. 

    “We’re thrilled to be able to gather in person again for this special day, especially with Katie Couric, whose warm smile is known across the world,” said Audrey Gruss.  “Humans are wired to need warm social interaction.  The isolation of the pandemic has taken a large toll on the nation’s mental health.”

    Gruss noted surveys showing that over one third of Americans are struggling with depression and anxiety in the wake of the pandemic.  She said: “As a society we are just beginning to identify the impact of the past 16 months.  Understanding and developing treatments for these mental disorders is therefore critically important, and that is what this Race makes possible.”

    The race will also have a virtual component this year after the success of last year’s virtual race, which attracted hundreds of participants, and runners will be able to sign up and run in their own hometowns. Participants will be able to share their stories through a special interactive live broadcast.

    In-Person Registration Information:  

    ·       Go online to www.raceofhopeseries.com and register for a fee of $40.00

    ·       Each participant will receive an ultra-lightweight vest, hat, race shirt, mask and finisher medal.  (While supplies last.  Gear is distributed on a first come first served basis)

    ·       Meeting Point: The Cultural Center, 25 Pond Lane, Southampton, NY

    ·       Date: Sunday, August 8, 2021

    ·       Time: Check-in begins at 7:15am and the Race of Hope begins at 8:30am SHARP.

    Virtual Registration Information:

    ·       Go online to www.raceofhopeseries.com and register for a fee of $35 through July 12th (the price increases to $40 after this date).

    ●      Participants choose their own trail and receive special Race gear in the mail (while supplies last).  They can walk or run the distance on their own time and in their own hometowns.

    ●      The special live broadcast made especially for their virtual racers will begin on Sunday, August 8, 2021 at 8 AM.   The broadcast will be hosted by HDRF’s Race Director and Executive Director.  They will welcome viewers, show messages of hope from participants across the country, and then blow the starting gun at 8:30 am ET.   Any racers who want to complete their courses at the exact same time as the actual race in Southampton can do so with the live broadcast!

    American Humane Hosts Dogs on the Dunes Clambake

    By
    Roz
    -
    jean shafiroff,rosita the dog,humane society dog dunesnew york gossip gal,
    Jean Shafiroff, Rosita the dog / Photo credit Rob Rich Society Allure

    As the sun set over Dune Beach in Southampton, American Humane hosted a special clambake, Dogs on the Dunes, to honor the brave heroes on both ends of the leash. Highlighted by the beautiful summer sky, the sold-out event was a tremendous success with many invited guests bringing their own dogs which only added to the fun evening. Military working dogs, who so valiantly serve alongside our troops to keep them safe from IEDs and other dangers, are too often retired overseas and are not able to be brought home to the loving homes of their former handlers.

    Dr. Robin Ganzert, Jean Shafiroff / Photo credit Rob Rich Society Allure

    American Humane stands first to serve to reunite Battle Buddies who have so bravely served our country, and who are really heroes on both ends of the leash. Dr. Robin Ganzert, American Humane’s president & CEO started things off talking about the significance of the event before introducing Philanthropist and American Humane Board member, Jean Shafiroff. Jean gave a speech announcing that she was honored to serve as National Spokesperson for the American Humane’s Feed the Hungry Covid-19 Program and that they had reached their goal of $1,000,000 to feed over 1,000,000 animals.

    Elizabeth Shafiroff, Rosita the dog / Photo credit Rob Rich Society Allure

    Jean Shafiroff, who is an American Humane board member, has been the national spokesperson for the Feed the Hungry campaign and has hosted several fundraisers since its launch. While helping raise funds, Jean also donated generously to the cause and has appeared on national television programs numerous times for interviews promoting the campaign.

    Notable attendees included: Jean Shafiroff, Martin Shafiroff, Dr. Robin Ganzert, Janna Bullock, Rosalie Brinton, Greg D’Elia, Elizabeth Shafiroff, Lee Fryd, Susan and Hunter Cushing, Jared and Mindy Epstein, Annie and Michael Falk, Geoff and Cyrena Fink, Christine Flaherty, Rob and Lisa Guida, Samantha Haywood and Doug Greef, Herb and Sharon Jablin, Lynne Kaiser, Andrea Karambelas, Sam and Terri Kaufman, Herb and Rita Krauss, Stuard and Marci Merzer, Burt and Knight Meem, James and Sue Mulholland, Marion and Phil Piro, Marilyn Pelstring and Peter Feinman, David and Meghan Rainey, Michael Shaheen and Maryanne Horwath, Lawrence and Judy Sullivan, Ann Thomas, Robert and Elizabeth Tomich, Abigail Trenk, Wendy Wegner, Stanley and Sonja Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Winston.

    “American Humane is honored to have brought together so many fabulous people in support of our efforts to reunite American’s brave military K-9s with their beloved handlers,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert. “Every dog who serves in the U.S. Armed Forces deserves our thanks and a restful retirement, which is why we were thrilled to launch our Military Working Dog Reunification fund at our inaugural Dogs on the Dunes Clambake. This critical fund will make it possible to bring even more of our K-9 veterans home thanks to the generous help of our donors and ambassadors.”

    Southamptonites came out to the Dunes with their dogs and enjoyed a stunning moon rise while noshing on clams, lobster and s’mores roasted over beach bonfire. Guests also kicked off their flip-flops and got down to the musical entertainment provided by the Alex Donner Steel Drum Band. Proceeds from the event will establish the American Humane Military Working Dog Reunification fund and help to bring our brave MWDs who are sadly left alone overseas home to be reunited with their beloved handlers. Importantly, the fund will also allow American Humane to provide free specialty and preventative medical care to make retired MWDs as healthy and comfortable as possible during retirement.

    Aug 7 Event: LongHouse Reserve East Hampton: Opera Al Fresco with Eve Queler, Teresa Castillo, Matthew White

    By
    Roz
    -
    opera in the garden,longhouse reserve,new york gossip gal,eve queler,matthew white
    Credit: Longhouse Reserve/Opera Al Fresco with Eve Queler

    LongHouse Reserve, the sprawling 16-acre nature reserve and sculpture garden in East Hampton, warmly welcomes back Artistic Director Emerita of the Opera Orchestra of New York Eve Queler for Opera Al Fresco; an operatic concert beneath the summer sky on Saturday, August 7th 2021 at 6pm. Queler brings her world-class expertise and talents to the grounds of LongHouse to celebrate the lives of artist Ingeborg Ten Haeff (1915 – 2011) and LongHouse Reserve Founder Jack Lenor Larsen (1927 – 2020).

    ​​Queler will be joined at the piano by two colleagues, tenor Matthew White, and soprano Teresa Castillo. Pieces by Donizetti, Puccini, Verdi, Gounod, and Mascagni will be performed. 

    The evening kicks off with a cocktail reception at 6:00 PM, followed by the operatic benefit concert under the stars at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $75 for members, $100 for the general public, and can be purchased at www.LongHouse.org.

    This performance was made possible through the generosity of John Githens.

    Billy Graham’s Longtime North Carolina Home Hits the Market

    By
    Roz
    -
    top ten real estate deals,new york gossip gal,billy graham,north carolina cottage
    Credit:www.TopTenRealEstatedeals.com

    World-famous evangelist Billy Graham preached the gospel to more people than anyone else in the history of Christianity. Known as “America’s Pastor,” he served as a spiritual advisor to every U.S. President from Harry Truman to Barack Obama. Beloved by millions, he had friendly relationships with luminaries from Queen Elizabeth to Martin Luther King Jr. Sometimes criticized for his inclusivist views, Graham preached against segregation and apartheid and urged unity between Catholics and Protestants. He wrote dozens of books, many of which became bestsellers and received numerous awards including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He first rocketed to national prominence with his “Crusades” – revivals held first in tents and later in stadiums across the world. He died in 2018 at the age of 99.

    Billy Graham and daughter Ruth / Credit: TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

    The Montreat, North Carolina cottage in which Graham and his family lived during his monumental movements is now on the market for the first time at $599,000. Under the current ownership of Graham’s daughter, Ruth, it has served as a vacation rental in which guests could experience the Grahams’ family life through a collection of original furnishings, books, photos and mementos. Unfortunately, Ruth’s own daughter is gravely ill, and she has made the heartbreaking decision to sell the residence to pay for her medical treatments.

    Family Room is Spacious with Elegant Fireplace / Credit TopTenRealEstateDeals.com

    The four-bedroom, two-bath home sits on one-third of an acre of beautifully manicured grounds with mature trees and a paved patio for entertaining or relaxing with family. Stone steps lead to a stream with a wooden bridge and walking paths through the surrounding forest. The house’s charming stonework exterior matches the garden walls. Inside, stunning blonde hardwood floors and wall paneling provide an atmosphere of rustic charm. The living room features a fireplace with more lovely stonework. Big windows bring in lots of light and picturesque forest views. Unique built-in furnishings match the wood paneling. With two levels of living space, the home has been lovingly maintained.
    “This cozy cottage presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of history. Showcasing the legacy of Billy Graham, it maintains a historic charm while offering modern comforts,” says agent Brian Etheridge.

    Montreat, a portmanteau of “mountain” and “retreat,” is a secluded village in the Asheville, North Carolina area with about 700 residents and no stoplights. Much of the retreat’s funding came from John S. Huyler, who in the late 1800s was the largest chocolate-candy manufacturer in the country and where Milton Hershey worked for several years. Many of the town’s buildings date to the early 1900s, and it has no commercial development. The area is best known for the Presbyterian-affiliated Montreat Conference Center, Montreat College, and the Graham home. More than half the town’s land is under a conservation easement, with 30 miles of trails winding through the wilderness as well as ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including paddle boating, canoeing and fishing.

    The listing is held by Brian Etheridge of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s Asheville office. Photo Credit: Single Point Media

    Hope For Depression Research Foundation Founder, Audrey Gruss, Hosted Kickoff Luncheon for ‘Race of Hope’

    By
    Roz
    -
    hope for depression race for hope luncheon 2021,new york gossip gal,audrey gruss,
    Louisa Benton, Audrey Gruss, Arthur Dunnam/Credit: Jared Siskin /PMC

    Many attended the Kickoff luncheon that Hope for Depression Research Foundation Founder, Audrey Gruss, hosted this past Friday for the Sixth Annual ‘Race of Hope’.

    Hilary Geary Ross, Scott Snyder / Credit: Jared Siskin/PMK

    The luncheon was attended by Race of Hope committee members and guests including Arthur Dunnam and Roy Cohen, Jamee and Peter Gregory, Candace Hamm, Kim Heirston, Natasha Jeffries, Anne Nordeman, Hilary Geary Ross, Scott Snyder, and more.

    During the event Audrey announced that iconic journalist Katie Couric would be attending as the Celebrity Grand Marshal for the Race of Hope, which takes place on August 8th.

    “We’re thrilled to be able to gather in person again for this special day, especially with Katie Couric, whose warm smile is known across the world,” said Gruss.  “Humans are wired to need warm social interaction.  The isolation of the pandemic has taken a large toll on the nation’s mental health.”

    Mai Hallingby Harrison, Anne Nordeman, Hilary Geary Ross, Jamee Gregory / Credit Jared Siskin PMK

    The 5K Race of Hope is a high-spirited, family-friendly event that will take place at 8:30 AM on Sunday, August 8 around Lake Agawam in Southampton. All race participants will receive a lightweight running vest, short sleeve shirt, race hat and huge finisher medal.   One hundred percent of proceeds from the race will fund groundbreaking research into the root causes of depression in the brain and new and better treatments. 

    To sign up or learn more, please visit https://www.raceofhopeseries.com/

    Christie Brinkley Hosts Polo Hamptons & Celebrates Social Life Magazine Cover

    By
    Roz
    -
    christie brinkley,social life magazine,polo,new york gossip gal
    Christie Brinkleyrrphoto by Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com ©2021 robrich101@gmail.com 516-676-3939

    On Saturday, July 24, Christie Brinkley hosted the annual Polo Hamptons Match & Cocktail Party brought to you by BMW North America, where she celebrated her July 23rd cover at The Maria & Kenneth Fishel Estate in Bridgehampton.

    Christie Brinkley, Matt Berritt\r\rphoto by Rob Rich/SocietyAllure.com ©2021 robrich101@gmail.com 516-676-3939

    The cover star arrived and posed for pictures with Maria Bradley, Kenneth Fishel and Justin Mitchell, and representatives from BMW North America, Turks and Caicos Tourism and AIREM.

    Over 450 guests enjoyed delectable hors d’oeuvres and specialized cocktails from New York and Hamptons caterer Andrea Correale of Elegant Affairs as they watched the thrilling Polo match. Attendees included Former Florida First Lady Carole Crist, Peter Thomas Roth, Jean Shafiroff, Lee Kalt, Malinda Kalt, Jessica Lee, Lauren Roberts, Alison Mitchell, Dr. Marie Hayag, Jane Scher, Lucia Hwong Gordon, Leesa Rowland, Dr. Stephen Greenberg, Ruth Katz, Dr. Howard Sobel, Sara Ishag, Jeff Wecker, Cheri Kaufman, Dr. Eunice Park, and Jennifer Pardo.

    A second Polo Hamptons Match & Cocktail party will be held on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at 900 Lumber Lane between 4pm – 7pm. For information and tickets please visit, www.polohamptons.com.

    The event was sponsored by BMW North America, Turks & Caicos Tourism, Dolce & Gabbana, Tanqueray Gin, AIREM, Whispering Angel Rosé, Bellissima and Social Life Magazine.

    South Fork Natural History Museum’s 32nd Annual Summer Gala Benefit on Saturday, July 31st

    By
    Roz
    -
    south fork 32nd annual bridgehampton,new york gossip gal

    The South Fork Natural History Museum (SOFO), the only state-of-the-art natural history museum on the South Fork of Long Island, is pleased to announce that its 32nd Annual Summer Gala Benefit (The Journey Forward: Reconnecting Through Nature) will take place at the museum in Bridgehampton on Saturday, July 31st, to benefit SOFO’s educational and environmental programs and initiatives empowering families to be responsible stewards of our planet. 

    The event will commemorate 32 years of leadership in nature conservation and education, and growth from a small nature clubhouse founded in 1988 by SOFO Board President Andrew Sabin and a group of South Fork naturalists concerned about the future of the area’s fragile ecosystems, to an acclaimed state-of-the-art museum highly regarded for its outstanding nature exhibits and over 270 annual educational programs focusing on environmental stewardship, climate change, sustainable energy, marine science, community outreach, and more. SOFO works with people of all ages, offering hope and purpose as we strive to ensure the well-being and sustainability of our planet.

    This year’s summer gala benefit will honor Dr. Indy Burke, an ecosystem ecologist and the Carl W. Knobloch, Jr. Dean at the Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies; Michael B. Gerrard, Andrew Sabin Professor of Professional Practice and Director of the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia Law School; Chef Kerry Heffernan, Chef at Grand Banks in Manhattan, a seafood sustainability and conservation leader who serves on the City Harvest Food Council; and environmentalists and long-time SOFO friends Kim & Greg Lippmann (SOFO Board Trustee) and their family. The event will be hosted by Ambassador, Chef Alex Guarnaschelli, a world renowned chef, who began her international culinary journey at Michelin three-star restaurant Guy Savoy in Paris; Carole Crist, American businesswoman and former First Lady of Florida; and Dottie Herman, CEO of Douglas Elliman Real Estate LLC. 

    The evening will feature a VIP cocktail reception from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm that will feature tours of the Museum and Grounds, music by Alfredo Merat, and a special guest appearance by Ambassadors of SOFO’s Native Wildlife from the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center. Following the VIP cocktail reception will be the main reception that will include an honoree presentation, dinner catered by Elegant Affairs Catering, spirits and beverages provided by Amagansett Wines and Spirits, Two Chicks Cocktails, Channing Daughters Winery, J.A. Baczewski Monopolowa Vodka and Gin, Lambay Irish Whiskey and Hampton Coffee Company. Entertainment will include Modern Mentalist Kevin Nicholas, dancing with DJ Danja, surprise guests, and live auctions that include opportunities to explore South America’s Wetland Jewel Pantanal in Brazil or investigate the lemurs in Madagascar with Time Magazine’s “Hero for the Plant” Russ Mittermeier. Other live auction offerings include a Tom Brady Field Experience to play catch with NFL quarterback Tom Brady, Flowering of the Vines at Opus Vineyard – May 2022, a trip to St. Bart’s, and more.

    SOFO’s host committee includes notable names such as Taja Abitbol Cone, Greg Matthews, Sheila Rosenblum, and Adam Weiss. Media sponsors include Dan’s Papers, Hamptons Magazine, James Lane Post, The Express News Groups, and The Village Voice. 

    We send a very special thank you to the Andrew Sabin Family Foundation.

    VIP Tickets are $1,400 and general admission tickets are $550. VIP Tables range from $10,000 – $50,000. Personalized sponsorship packages are available. For VIP tickets, tables, and business sponsorship opportunities, call Diana Aceti, Director of Development at 631-903- 7217 or email daceti@sofo.org. General admission tickets can be purchased online at​ ​https://sofo.org/summer-gala or by calling 631-537-9735.

    SOFO is committed to creating a safe, enjoyable experience for all guests. Guests will be asked to please kindly provide proof of vaccination status and or a document showing proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test. Please note that all Covid precautions will be strictly enforced.  For updates, please call 631-537-9735 or visit https://sofo.org/summer-gala. 

    Josh Groban Surprises Close Friend and Bandmate With Modernized Home Recording Studio on HGTV’s ‘Celebrity IOU

    By
    Roz
    -
    Credit: HGTV
    Celebrity IOU Season 2; Episode209 – Demo / Demolition / Befores with Josh Grobin. Drew Scott; Johnathan Scott and Josh pose for portraits together and individualy and with the homeowner! As seen on Celebrity.

    HGTV’s hit series Celebrity IOU, premiered last night and found Josh Groban at the doorstep of his close friend Mark, a talented pianist and bandmate who has worked with him for nearly 20 years. Mark got a big surprise when the global superstar showed his deep appreciation to him by giving him a beautiful, inspiring space where he can create music and spend time with his family. 

    To turn Mark’s dark and dingy garage into a sleek, modernized home recording studio and rehearsal space—and give his backyard a complete facelift—Josh didn’t shy away from the project’s demo and build as he worked alongside real estate and renovation experts Drew and Jonathan Scott. He learned how to hang drywall, use a power saw and lay tile to bring his dream design plan for Mark to life. In addition to airing on HGTV, Josh’s episode of Celebrity IOU is available to stream on discovery+ right now.

    “It goes without saying that Mark is an extraordinary piano player, but, off the stage, he’s just such a great guy,” said Josh. “He’s humble. He goes out of his way to make sure everyone around him is taken care of and never asks for much. To be able to show him how much he’s appreciated, that makes me so happy.” 

    1...131415...634Page 14 of 634
    ©