Reopening Studio 54? Will it really happen?

Is Studio 54 going to reopen again? Can that tantalizing time be repeated?

Mark Fleischman does it again.

This autumn, Mark made his authorial debut with the release of his new book, Inside Studio 54. A book filled with some of the most incredible memories in the 80’s New York party scene, it serves as the perfect ode to a time of sex drugs and rock and roll. It was a time when anyone who was someone could be found at Studio 54. “Calvin Klein, Bianca Jagger, Andy Warhol, and Halston,” are just a few names you could expect to come across on any of those glorious nights at studio.

Lucille Khornak stops for a photo with Mark Fleischman, author of Inside Studio 54.

Mark outdid himself in celebrating the debut of Inside Studio 54!  It felt just like the good old days, walking into Dream on West 18th. Of course, you had to have your name on the ever exclusive list in order to get past the bouncer and get in line for the elevator that took you to the top floor(unlike Mark on that serendipitous night in 1977). A flashback to the old days of Studio 54: a line to get inside, growing as the minutes went by. 

Getting off the elevator I could see the floor was packed. It was a mix of the older crowd, a school reunion from the Studio 54 days, and the new young generation, yearning to experience the vibe of  those days.

The music was blaring. Erotic girls were dancing. The terrace was filled with everyone taking photos with their iPhones, selfies and ‘ussies’ -a true sign of the times,- the glistening city as their backdrop for the night. As the place got more and more crowded, the dancing started; it was the upbeat sound of the 80's that electrified the crowd.

Friends pose for photos while celebrating Mark Fleischaman's new book, "Inside Studio 54."

My first book, Fashion: 2001,  held its opening night party at Studio 54. It was definitely a night to be remembered. If it had been the days of Instagram and Snapchat, the behind the scenes would not have been so secretive;  what happened at Studio 54 will remain a whisper.

Mark Fleischman with his wife, Mimi Fleischman celebrating the debut of their book, Inside Studio 54.

Lost in the sweet memory of what may go down in history as one of the most iconic clubs of NYC, I can’t help but wonder if the days of Studio 54 could ever be recreated. Certainly with the instant nature of today’s technology, protecting the otherworldly experience that used to be would prove quite a challenge! Retro music, old friends, and new friends gathered to support Mark Fleischman, and the unique flavor of what once emanated from Studio during opening night.

When I last spoke with Mark, I asked him: “So, is this the beginning of a new Studio 54 all over again?" Mark simply replied, "I know I could do it, but I am not going to do it!"

Studio 54 will forever mark it’s place in history as the club where celebrities gathered with the fabulous people of everyday life to dance the night away. It engraved in stone the standard of the “sex, drugs and rock & roll” experience. Think you can truly handle being Inside Studio 54?

Inside Studio 54 by Mark Fleischman with Denise Chatman and Mini Fleischman

Fall Activities for the Family

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Though summer has come to an end and long days at the beach may now be behind us, there are still many opportunities for festive family fun on Long Island. The changing of the seasons brings us colorful leaves to play in, pumpkins to pick, cider to drink and hay bales to climb, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement in children and adults alike. The cool autumn weather and approaching holidays always seems to bring families even closer together. Make this season special by participating in some of the family-friendly fall activities listed below! Each activity is simple, stress-free and great for creating new memories together – perfect for the kids and kids-at-heart!

Go Apple Picking Together: The chilly weather marks the beginning of the fall harvest, meaning the apples are ripe and ready to be picked off the trees! There are many local, family-owned orchards on Long Island to choose from, such as 7 Ponds Orchard in Watermill and Harbes Family Farm in Mattituck. Engage the kids by playing games while picking. See who can find the largest apple and award the winner with a small prize. At the end of the day, make caramel apples together using a simple at-home kit from your local grocery store.

Attend Local Farmer's Markets: Going to the farmer's market is not only a great way to buy incredibly fresh produce while supporting local farmers, it's a lot of fun! Take the kids to your local farmer's market and let them help you select some crisp fall fruits and vegetables. This new tradition can even get them excited about healthy eating. The Southampton Chamber of Commerce Farmer's Market will be open Sundays throughout the month of October, from 9am-2pm. The Market is located on the east side grounds of the Southampton Arts Center at 25 Jobs Lane. Over 25 vendors will be featured selling farm-fresh produce, baked goods, jams, spices, teas, gluten-free and vegan products, wine from local vineyards, natural skincare products, soaps, artisan jewelry, natural pet treats and more! While you're in town, stop by our Southampton Gallery right down the street and say hi!

Make Your Own Apple Cider: There's nothing better than a warm cup of cider on a cool autumn day. Follow this easy, kid-friendly recipe to make your own hot cider at home.

Book a Family Photo Session: Fall is the perfect season to book your family photo session. The scenery is beautiful and makes for incredible pictures! A photo session with Lucille is an experience the whole family will enjoy and remember forever. Have one- of-a-kind holiday cards made to send to all your loved ones this year – it's a special gesture that friends and family will cherish!

Go Pumpkin Picking: Make a day out of it and attend a local farm with many other attractions. Hank's Pumpkintown in Watermill offers corn mazes, wagon rides, pedal cart races, animals, games, education stations and more. As a safer and less messy alternative to pumpkin carving, paint your pumpkins with the kids and put them out on display!

Homemade Halloween Costumes and Decorations: Spend an afternoon making festive arts and crafts with the kids to use as decorations around your home. Let them unleash their creativity by putting together their own Halloween costumes this year.

Whatever you decide to do with your family this season, make sure you have as much fun as possible together. With all the festive activities that this time of year has to offer, you may just fall in love with autumn!

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