R. Couri Hay is Social Life’s Travel Editor and Society Columnist. He began his career at Andy Warhol’s Interview and has written for Town & Country and People. Hay also appears on CNN, PBS, Fox, and VH1 commenting on Hollywood. He lives in New York City and Southampton and is the CEO of his own PR firm. 

Jay McIninery & Anne Hearst , Sandra & Eric Ripert , Vera Wang , Martha Stewart , Peter Marino , Isabelle Bscher, Nicky Rothschild & Brooke Shields 

The Southampton Arts Center Commemorates 250 Years of the American Flag 

The Southampton Arts Center (SAC) is kicking off Memorial Day weekend with a historic exhibition, Independency: The American Flag at 250 Years. Curated by historian John Monsky, the exhibition explores the American flag’s evolution over two and a half centuries, using rare and significant flags to tell the nation’s story. From a rare kerchief commissioned by Martha Washington in 1775 to flags flown during the Apollo moon landings, each piece offers a unique perspective on the nation’s past. The show is divided into four galleries: Introduction, featuring early American flags, Campaigns, Parades, and Protests, highlighting 19th-century political flags, Vietnam and the Moon, showcasing flags from the turbulent 1960s, and Sacrifice, honoring those who served in battle from the War of 1812 to Afghanistan. Each gallery pairs flags with contemporary photographs, drawings, and artifacts, immersing visitors in the eras these flags represent. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Independency invites visitors to reflect on the flag’s role in shaping national identity. Through triumphs and tragedies, innovation and sacrifice, the flag remains a symbol of our country’s ongoing story. The SAC’s co-founder is Simon Levinson, with Christina Strassfield as the Executive Director. The exhibition runs from May 17th to July 19th. https://southamptonartscenter.org 

Jay McInerney Celebrates 

Michael J. Fox, Phoebe Cates, Kiefer Sutherland, and Dianne Wiest starred in the movie version of author Jay McInerney’s best-selling book Bright Lights, Big City which defined the decadent nightlife of the 80s in NYC. The debonair writer known for his good taste in clothes and wine celebrated his 70th birthday at a dinner party at Le Bernardin given by his wife, the media heiress, Anne Hearst. During a break in the 

five-course tasting menu by Michelin-starred chef Eric Ripert, the writer drew laughs when he confessed, “Last year I had three different hospital stays; so I’m really glad to have made it to 70 in 2025,” adding, “While in the hospital my friend Eric Ripert sent me two meals that made me want to live again so here I am.” Among those drinking the vintage wines were friends from all over the country including Gregory Peck’s son Tony Peck and his wife Paula, baroness Milly de Cabrol, Dana Hammond and her husband Dr. Patrick Stubgen, designer Vera Wang and her husband Arthur P. Becker, Binky Urban, Robert Zimmerman, Candace Bushnell, Chef Ripert’s wife Sandra Ripert, Risk and Returns author Wilbur Ross and his wife Hilary Geary, Alison Mazzola who orchestrated the party and other members of the Demi-monde. 

Race of Hope 

Audrey Gruss’s Hope For Depression Research Foundation’s Race of Hope in Palm Beach broke all records attracting over 1,200 people, including socialites Jamee and Peter Gregory, Whitney and Christine Schott, and The Colony Hotel’s Sarah Wetenhall. The event, which raised over one million dollars, celebrated its seventh anniversary and raised funds for life-saving mental health research into new treatments for clinical depression. Over the years, the organization has honored Dakota Johnson, Anderson Cooper, Brooke Shields, and Michael Phelps. This year’s sponsors included James Borynack and Adolfo Zaralegui of Findlay Galleries and Livingston Builders, Teresa and Jim Remez. HDRF’s Southampton 5K Race/Walk takes place on August 3rd. To sign up, go to https://hopefordepression.org. 

East Side House Settlement 

Third-generation gallerist Isabelle Bscher’s Galerie Gmurzynska made a bold Winter Show debut at the Park Avenue Armory with a vibrant display of 20th-century masterpieces and contemporary standouts. Front and center was Wesselmann’s Cigarette #1 —a jaw-dropping, two-paneled sculpture crafted from oil, wax crayon, and printed paper. Commanding attention with its bold composition, the piece embodies Wesselmann’s signature ‘flirty narrative’ in tandem with the evolution of his infamous smoker’s collection. Gmurzynska showcased a work by Georges Braque, Heinrich Campendonk, Wassily Kandinsky, Jacques Lipchitz, and Joan Miró. In the mix at the opening night party that benefitted the East Side House Settlement were Michael Bloomberg with his decorator Jamie Drake, Martha Stewart, Ryan Murphy, Nicky Rothschild, Peter Marino, Kathy Rayner, Prince Dimitri of Yugoslavia, Coco Kopelman and Jerry Lauren. https://gmurzynska.com 

Honor in Armor: Inside the Vatican Swiss Guard 

This year’s Oscar-nominated film Conclave, starring Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, and Stanley Tucci, tells the intriguing story of what happens when a Pope dies and a new one is elected. The movie also calls attention to the role of the colorfully uniformed Vatican Swiss Guard, which has been protecting the Pope and Vatican City since 1506. The Guards even travel with Pope Francis, including during his recent hospital stay. The faithful are praying for the Pope’s full recovery but in the event of a papal conclave, 

which occurs during the time between a Pope’s death or resignation and the election of his successor, the Papal Guards are responsible for protecting the conclave. A new documentary “Honor in Armor: Inside the Vatican Swiss Guard” offers an in depth look into the Guards and their history including the time when Adolf Hitler and the Nazis were plotting to kidnap the Pope. The film’s executive producers Mario Paredes and Dr. Ramon Tallaj, the founder of SOMOS Community Care, have also worked with the Vatican for over a decade on creating health equity for the underserved in NYC. https://somoscommunitycare.org 

Peter Thomas Roth’s Mother Turns 102 

Skincare mogul Peter Thomas Roth hired a private jet to take his mother, Carole Roth, to Las Vegas to celebrate her 102nd birthday with 17 family members and Julia Lemigova, a Real Housewives of Miami star. The festivities started off at Chippendales, where Carole received two lap dances that were so racy they got banned from TikTok. The lucky birthday girl was spotted gambling at the Wynn until 2 am and won $1,500. The group, including her five great-grandchildren, also took in the Michael Jackson show. Carole was recognized everywhere she went on the strip from her work as a model on QVC, where she uses her son’s Retinol Fusion PM on her perfect legs. As a present, Roth gave his mother her very first Birken bag, making her longtime dream come true. https://peterthomasroth.com 

Jean Shafiroff & The Red Cross 

Philanthropist Jean Shafiroff asked guests at her birthday party to donate to the American Red Cross. The birthday girl wore four different gowns including ones by Carolina Herrera, Victor dE Souza, and Malan Breton. Jean, famous for never revealing her age, quipped, “It’s a security question.” Guests, sipping on the bubbly rose Aphrodise, included, Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell, Jon Ledecky, the owner of the New York Islanders, the Consul General of Italy to the United Nations Fabrizio di Michele, NYT writer Ruth LaFerla, Lucia Hwong Gordon, hair guru Chaz Dean, dermatologist Dr. Howard Sobel, AD 100 designer TC Chou, divorce attorneys Martha Cohen Stine and Harriet Newman Cohen, comedian D’yan Forest, gallerist Isabelle Bscher, top plastic surgeon Dr. Bianca Molina and her aide de camp Erica Kulka, lawyers Arthur Aidala and Marianne Bertuna, Jason T. Busch, Maryanne Grisz, Cyril Verdavainne, and fashion designers Julia Haart, Victor dE Souza, CD Greene, Nabys Vielman, Ron Dyce, and Fern Clausius. https://redcross.org

Check out the complete Social Life Magazine issue here.  Read more latest events and gossip at Couri’s Columns. 

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New York City’s stylish mayor joins A-list guests to celebrate PR guru R. Couri Hay’s birthday at the chic new restaurant.

New York, NY – On a vibrant evening at the grand opening of La Piazza, Mayor Eric Adams brought his signature dapper charm to a star-studded celebration. The event doubled as a birthday bash for renowned PR guru R. Couri Hay

A Plant-Based Feast for the Mayor

Staying true to his plant-based diet, Mayor Adams enjoyed a curated selection of dishes crafted by Fabrizio Barretta, La Piazza’s critically acclaimed chef. Barretta, flown in by owners Juljan and Ledjo Musabelliu from their flagship restaurant in Venice, Italy, ensured the mayor’s meal aligned with his health-conscious lifestyle. The menu showcased La Piazza’s commitment to fresh, innovative cuisine, making it a new hotspot for NYC’s foodies.

A-List Guests Light Up the Night

The guest list read like a who’s-who of New York’s elite. Among the attendees were Ann Dexter-Jones, ex-wife of British-American rock band Foreigner’s guitarist Mick Jones, alongside fashion designers Julia Haart and Nicole Miller. Socialite Liliana Cavendish, travel writer Joe Alexander, and lighting designer Bentley Meeker added to the eclectic mix. Author Michael Gross was also spotted, fresh off buzz about his upcoming tell-all book on St. Barts, diving into the lives of the stars and billionaires who flock to its shores.

Other notable names included Liz and Todd Shapiro, New York Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright, event maestro Herb Karlitz, designer TC Chou, and plastic surgeon Dr. Tony Berlet with his wife, Kerry Berlet. Kerry, host of the hit podcast Once Upon a Surgery, has been captivating audiences with in-depth interviews featuring her husband’s patients, offering a unique glimpse into the world of cosmetic surgery.

La Piazza: NYC’s New Culinary Gem

La Piazza’s opening marks a bold addition to Manhattan’s dining scene. With its Venice-inspired elegance and a menu helmed by Chef Barretta, the restaurant is poised to become a go-to destination for both locals and tourists. Owners Juljan and Ledjo Musabelliu have brought their passion for hospitality to Midtown, creating a space that blends sophistication with warmth.

Why La Piazza’s Opening Matters

• Culinary Excellence: Chef Fabrizio Barretta’s menu combines Italian tradition with modern flair, catering to diverse diets, including plant-based options.
• Star Power: The presence of Mayor Adams and high-profile guests underscores La Piazza’s appeal to NYC’s elite.
• Midtown Revival: Located at 20 East 49th Street, La Piazza adds vibrancy to Midtown’s evolving dining landscape.

For those looking to experience La Piazza’s magic, reservations are now open. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or simply curious about NYC’s latest hotspot, this is one opening you won’t want to miss.

Follow La Piazza on social media for updates and check out their website for bookings. Stay tuned for more NYC events that bring together style, cuisine, and star power!

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Thank You! How R. Couri Hay’s Gossip Column Skyrocketed to 100,000 Visitors in One Month

A month ago, my gossip column, R. Couri Hay (rcourihay.com/gossip), was a quiet corner of the internet. Today, it’s a viral sensation, pulling in 100,000 visitors, with my Wisteria video racking up 1 million views on Tik Tok. To my incredible readers, sharers, and supporters—thank you! Here’s how we turned this juicy gossip column into an internet phenomenon in just 30 days.

Gossip thrives on exclusivity and buzz. I focused on delivering fresh, insider scoops about celebrities, fashion, and pop culture—content my audience craves. Using tools like Google Trends, I spotted trending topics, like “Terry Moran Grills Trump in Explosive ABC Interview” or “Kim Kardashian’s Priceless Gift to Daughter North.” Each post had witty commentary, insider tidbits, and clickable headlines.

The magic happened by leaning into what gossip fans crave: fresh, witty content and irresistible headlines that demand attention. To everyone who’s part of the R. Couri Hay community—thank you for making this wild ride possible! Keep spilling the tea with me at

rcourihay.com/gossip.

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@outwithcouri My townhouse is having its moment — thank you, wisteria #rcourihay #upperwestside #wisteriaflowers #wisteriaseason #upperwestsidetownhouses #uwsbrownstones #nycbrownstones #newyorkcity #brownstonesnyc ♬ original sound – R. Couri Hay

Nestled on 81st Street, between Columbus and Amsterdam in Manhattan, my townhouse wears a crown of wisterias that’s been stealing hearts for generations. This spring, I posted a short TikTok video of their cascading purple blooms, draping like a garland across the facade, and—poof!—it exploded to 1 million views overnight. The comments flooded in: “This is magical!” “How do you get them to look like that?” “I’m booking a trip to NYC just to see this!” I’m blushing, but honestly, the real stars are my wisterias—100 years old and still dazzling the Upper West Side.

These vines aren’t just plants; they’re a legacy. Planted a century ago, they’ve clung to this townhouse through wars, storms, and city chaos. For the past 50 years, I’ve been their devoted caretaker, coaxing them into the breathtaking garland you see today. It’s no small feat. As I once told The New York Times, “These wisterias are like a pet—you have to groom them, feed them, talk to them.” Every spring, I’m out there with my shears, whispering encouragements, trimming just enough to shape their wild beauty without breaking their spirit. I fertilize with care, ensuring the soil is rich but not overwhelming. And yes, I chat with them—call it silly, but I swear they bloom brighter when I do.

The payoff? Two weeks of pure magic. For just 14 fleeting days each spring, the wisterias burst into a cascade of lavender blossoms, perfuming the air and turning our quiet street into a pilgrimage site for romantics, photographers, and plant lovers. Passersby stop, jaws dropped, snapping photos or just soaking in the fleeting beauty. Those TikTok comments weren’t wrong—it is like something out of a fairy tale. But by mid-May, the petals fall, and the vines retreat into their green cocoon, waiting patiently for next year’s encore.

The viral video still feels surreal. I filmed it on a whim one morning, the sunlight hitting the blooms just right, their tendrils swaying gently in the breeze. I captioned it, “My 100-year-old wisterias, 50 years in the making. Only here for 2 weeks!” I didn’t expect the world to fall in love, but I get it. There’s something timeless about these vines, a reminder that beauty takes patience, care, and a little bit of magic.

To everyone who’s visited, commented, or shared the video: thank you. You’ve made this old gardener’s heart bloom as brightly as my wisterias. If you’re in the neighborhood next spring, swing by 81st Street. Bring your camera, take a deep breath, and say hi to my pets. They’ll be waiting, as they have for a century, to steal your heart for two glorious weeks.

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This centuries-old ritual, called a conclave (Latin for “locked room”), will shape the Church’s direction for decades. Here’s a breakdown of how the process works—and why this conclave is unlike any before.

The Basics: What Is a Papal Conclave?

The conclave is the secretive voting process used to select a new pope. It’s held inside the Sistine Chapel, beneath Michelangelo’s famed frescoes. To ensure privacy, electronic jamming devices block all outside communication. Once voting starts, the chapel is sealed with the traditional Latin command: Extra Omnes—’ Everyone Out.”

Only cardinals under the age of 80 can vote. As of now, 138 of the 252 cardinals in the College of Cardinals are eligible.

A More Diverse Electorate Than Ever

Historically, the conclave was dominated by Europeans, especially Italians. That’s changing. Today’s College of Cardinals reflects the global nature of the Church, with members from more than 90 countries. Nearly 80% were appointed by Pope Francis himself, who prioritized diversity and inclusion.

This means the upcoming election may be influenced by a broader set of perspectives than ever before. The Church is facing modern challenges—sexual abuse scandals, declining attendance in the West, and growth in the Global South. The next pope will need to address them all.

Learn more about the role of the College of Cardinals.

The Timeline: What Happens and When?

Before voting begins, the cardinals will hold general congregations. These meetings are a chance to discuss the state of the Church and identify what qualities the next pope should have. It’s also a time for cardinals who don’t know each other to connect.

While politicking is expected, blatant self-promotion is frowned upon—and illegal if it involves exchanging favors. The Church forbids “simony,” or buying votes.

Expected Timeline:

Inside the Vote: How a Pope Is Elected

The process is precise. Cardinals vote in silence, each writing a name on a paper ballot. They then approach an urn and drop their ballot while swearing before God that their vote is sincere.

Nine cardinals, selected at random, oversee the election. Three act as scrutineers to count and read aloud each vote.

To be elected, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority. If that doesn’t happen, the process continues—usually with up to four votes per day. Ballots are burned after each round. Black smoke signals no decision; white smoke means a new pope has been chosen.

If no consensus is reached after 13 days, the rules allow for a day of prayer. After that, the top two candidates face off until one reaches the required majority.

The ‘Room of Tears’ and the First Blessing

Once a candidate secures enough votes and accepts the election by saying “Accepto,” he officially becomes the pope.

He’s then led to a chamber called the “Room of Tears.” Here, he puts on the papal vestments and takes a moment to absorb the weight of his new role, often an emotional experience.

The new pope chooses a name, usually symbolizing the values or direction he intends to emphasize. Pope Francis chose his name to honor St. Francis of Assisi, known for humility and compassion.

Soon after, the pope steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first public message and blessing.

Why This Conclave Matters

The Church is at a crossroads. With the world rapidly evolving, the next pope will need to balance tradition with the demands of modern society. He’ll face pressure to address:

• Clergy sexual abuse accountability
• LGBTQ+ inclusion
• The role of women in the Church
• Climate change and social justice

This conclave won’t just select a new leader—it will define the Catholic Church’s path forward.

For updates and in-depth analysis on global faith and cultural events, follow R. Couri Hay Creative PR.

Sources:

• The Conversation
• National Catholic Reporter
• BBC News

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Getting ready is its own event. Even as media, I dress to impress, and this year I slip into a crushed green velvet suit by Ammar Belal, tipping my hat to the garden-themed night from the moment I step out. My day starts early with a press preview of the exhibit—over 250 masterpieces from the MET’s permanent collection. It’s a must for anyone covering this spectacle, and I’m already soaking in the artistry before the first star hits the stairs.

The real thrill, though? It’s standing at the top of those iconic steps, watching the magic unfold. From Zendaya to Jennifer Lopez, top models like Emily Ratajkowski to icons like Doja Cat and Elle Fanning—they’re all there, practicing their poses in the mirror before strutting out. I’d bet the Kardashians have their whole social media crew plotting every move up those stairs—it’s no small feat, and some celebs don’t even walk; they’re carried. Across the street, the crowd buzzes like they’re waiting for private jets to take off, guessing who’ll step out of the next Mercedes-Benz van. Every arrival’s timed to the second, and the trains of those gowns flow as smooth as clockwork.

This year’s theme, “Sleeping Beauties: The Reawakening of Fashion,” brings out looks I’ll never forget. My favorite? Tyla in her sand dress by Balmain, paired with that hourglass bag—it’s the theme in every stitch, and the detail blows me away. Balmain owns the night, but Nicole Kidman? She’s pure elegance in a flowy, feather-topped bodice, long white gloves, and hair falling free like a California surfer girl. It’s relaxed yet sophisticated, and I can’t take my eyes off her. Then there’s Chris Hemsworth, towering like Thor in an off-white Tom Ford suit. Simple? Sure, but next to him, I’m reminded of his sheer presence. He tells me the red carpet’s dynamics—those height differences on the stairs—are something you’ve got to see to believe.

The energy up there is electric. The Met Gala’s the most fabulous night in New York City, hands down—fashion and finance crashing together like nowhere else. Heavy hitters like Jeff Bezos, Michael Bloomberg, and TikTok’s tech moguls rub shoulders with Michael Kors and Meg Ryan. It’s where fame, style, and power collide in a dazzling show of influence. That red carpet? It’s a running billboard—jewels, couture, brands—all endorsed by the stars under the world’s gaze.

So, what’s it like for me? It’s the height of fashion, the pulse of celebrity, and the heartbeat of New York—all wrapped into one spectacular night. From the prep to the last grand entrance, every second sparkles, and I’m right there, living it.

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Tony Award winner Greg Kotis, who wrote Urinetown, will star in his new play, The End of All Flesh, during the 9th annual Fringe Festival, which opens at five venues around the city on April 2nd and closes on April 20th. The comedy festival will feature over sixty-four boundary-pushing talents, including Jackie Skinner, Allison Villaseñor, Hayley Kar, and D’yan Forest, the 90-year-old performer who is the Guinness World Record holder for Oldest Female Comedian. Forest chuckled and told me, “I’m going to turn heads with my sexy show 90 Years of Song & Scandal.” Her show, written with Eric Kornfeld and Stephen Clarke, includes the story of how Forest divorced her husband and married a nun, proving comedy and scandal only get better with age. Forest will storm the stage at the Wild Project in the East Village on April 3rd. The festival supports the Indie Theater Community, with 100% of proceeds going directly to each artist.

Judith Pisar to Chair Young Concert Artists’ 64th Gala Honoring Clive Gillinson

Judith Pisar, the former Director of the Brooklyn Academy of Music and the Merce Cunningham Dance Company, will serve as the Gala Chair for the Young Concert Artists’ 64th Annual Benefit honoring Clive Gillinson, the artistic director of Carnegie Hall, on April 17th. The event at Jazz at Lincoln Center will feature performances by over a dozen musical luminaries, including pianists Emanuel Ax and Anne-Marie McDermott, both alumni of the YCA, as well as soprano Courtenay Budd and violinist Tim Fain. Pisar’s daughter Leah Pisar will miss the concert because she will be reciting the text of Leonard Bernstein’s third symphony, “Kaddish”, in Warsaw, Poland at the annual Beethoven Festival on April 18th. The text was written by her father, Samuel Pisar, who performed the piece around the world until his death in 2015. Judith Pisar’s son, former Secretary of State Antony Blinken, introduced Leah and her mother when they performed the piece together at Carnegie Hall in January. yca.org

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