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May 042012
 

My daughter, Ivy Mix, is an identical twin, an artist, a business woman, philanthropist and a feminist. (She would not describe herself that way but I do.) After college, she moved to Brooklyn where she works in a small studio and supports herself by tending bar. At first, I was not supportive. Then one day I realized I had no control over this and told her “If you are going to be a bartender, be the best one there is!”. She accomplished this in short order and this year was feted by Zagat as one on the “30 under 30” dominating the NYC restaurant scene.

Fulfilling her philanthropic bent, last year Ivy co-founded an organization named Speed Rack that hosts women only bartending competitions throughout the USA with 100% proceeds going to breast cancer education, prevention and research.

Next Thursday, May 10, in NYC, will be the finals. The winners from all the other cities will come together to compete for the Best Female Bartender in the USA. The tickets are $40.00. Even if you cannot attend, consider purchasing one as a donation to an important cause. I will be there and hope you join us for a fun filled evening.

Read more about Ivy: 30 Under 30
View her artwork here

 

May 272011
 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XDamToTqFQ&feature=player_embedded

I was visiting the West Hollywood store a month ago and had the pleasure of meeting Gayle Tzemach Lemmon, author of The Dressmaker of Khair Khana. Gayle is a journalist who has written a very insightful book about women in Afghanistan and how they have survived war and the Taliban using only a needle and thread and their own ingenuity.

Of course, I was attracted to the title. My grandmother was a dressmaker. But I am always interested in stories about brave women; especially women who become overnight entrepreneurs out of need to keep their families alive and well.The Dressmaker of Khair Khana - Buy the Book

War stories have become the norm but rarely do they remember women. Stories of these women who are left behind must be told. They are the women that hold families and communities together until the men return. This story is one. The courage, creativity and sheer energy of Kamela Sidiqi and her sisters is awe inspiring. I hope to meet her one day.

I have asked Gayle what I can do to help. Her answer is that the story needs to be told. We will be giving away her books next week in our showrooms. Of course, you can always buy on line or at your local store. You will be glad you did. It will help you to understand Afghanistan in a very personal way.

Nov 162010
 

Everyone close to me knows that Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. On that day we celebrate Gratitude with family, food and no other distractions. In my mind, that’s as good as it gets.

On the topic of Gratitude, I remain hugely grateful to Zainab Salbi for her unflagging dedication to women in this world who have become victims of war. Anichini continues to support 6 women through this program.  Their letters and pictures, which come to us through the mail, are a constant and uplifting reminder of our own good fortune. They also offer us a window into the world of these remarkable women who are thankful beyond words for the assistance they receive.

To express our gratitude this Thanksgiving Anichini will donate $1 for every new blog subscriber this season to Women for Women International.

Zainab Salbi photo credit