Celeb Sightings and Cipriani Pasta for Magic Johnson’s ASPIRE LAUNCH

A Cipriani party is always unlike any other!  The first time I attended the Cipriani 42nd Street location was for Whitney Houston‘s 1999 Divas Live Post party!  Whitney was presented a plaque for phenomenal sales of her My Love Is Your Love album, and everyone, including Ashley Judd, Susan Lucci, Donald Trump and Ananda Lewis, partied inside!  Last night, I found myself back in the spot for the launch of Magic Johnson‘s new ASPIRE Network.  CEG client Vivica A. Fox never made it to the east coast to attend, but the lavish party hosted the who’s who of black NY media and celebrities were abundant at the posh and elegant affair that served up Cipriani’s signature Bellini cocktail (Prosecco and peach nectar) and staple snacks and dishes, including zucchini chips, penne pasta, mushroom ravioli, turkey with stuffing and cold plates galore!

While guests lined up the bars, the white sofas, and the white linen-covered tables, Magic Johnson addressed the stage promptly at 8pm and led a countdown for his station’s official launch!  New Edition performed an entirely way too long 30-minute set sans Bobby Brown.  Of course, like anyone who grew up in the 80s and 90s, I’m a New Edition fan, but without Bobby Brown, they are just not as entertaining.

Lynn Whitfield looked radiant and Sparkle star Omari Hardwick informed me that Jordin Sparks & Whitney’s new video for Celebrate debuted last night.  Omari’s co-star Tika Sumpter was in the building in a gorgeous bandage wrapped dressed and shiny gold stilettos!  Everyone jammed when D-Nice played a little Beyonce.  The free liquor was abundant, the food was delicious (although it was set up buffet-style with uniformed servers) and everyone, without a doubt, had a good time!

FYI, the Cipriani Zucchini Chips have to be one of the best food inventions ever!  Crisp with a rich flavor, I LOVE them!  I also fixed a mini plate of pasta with turkey and stuffing and tore it up!  The food at Cipriani’s is simply amazing!  Fresh, rich and savory, last night’s fixings did not disappoint.

I also ran into Wyclef, and as I’ve said before he is the NICEST celebrity ever!  He introduced me to his new artist and I met Carmelo Anthony!  He, too, was VERY nice!  I actually couldn’t believe how cool he was!  I was genuinely impressed!

I had a good time last night, especially considering I haven’t been in NY all month!  It was a great way to come home… And if last night’s party was any indication of what we can expect from the new Aspire Network, then it sure looks like yet something else Magic Johnson touches will turn to gold!

BJC.

 

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