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Heimerdinger Foundation Adds Four to Board of Directors

By Rocco Delfino — 3 years ago

Heimerdinger Foundation Adds Four to Board of Directors: Blake Boyd and Jenni Bradley, Tim Falade and Andrew Sartoris

The Heimerdinger Foundation, a nonprofit organization providing nutrient-rich meals and education, free of charge, for families facing cancer, announces executives

Blake Boyd (Pinnacle Financial Partners), Jenni Bradley (BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee), Tim Falade (HCA Healthcare) and Andrew Sartoris (HCA Healthcare) have joined the organization’s Board of Directors.

The 13-member board, comprised of business leaders across multiple industries, help develop the strategic plans of The Heimerdinger Foundation in support of its signature Meals 4 Health and Healing program.

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In addition to the board additions the nonprofit has named a new a President, Secretary and Treasurer. Wade Weaver, Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, assumes the role of President while Don Diffendorf, VP, Financial Services Account Manager at GE Healthcare, steps in as Treasurer and Christa Gassler, Senior Director of Affordability at eviCore Healthcare, a Cigna subsidiary, as Secretary.

Current Heimerdinger Foundation Board of Directors:
President – Wade Weaver, Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP
Treasurer – Don Diffendorf, VP, Financial Services Account Manager at GE Healthcare
Secretary – Christa Gassler, Senior Director of Affordability at eviCore Healthcare, a Cigna subsidiary
Executive Director – Katharine Ray, Heimerdinger Foundation
Blake Boyd, Senior Vice President at Pinnacle Financial Partners
Jenni Bradley, Manager Strategic Projects at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee
Joseph Conner, Senior Director at Essential Broadcast Media
Lynda Davenport, Practice Manager at Endodontic Associates
Kevin Elkins, Associate Attorney at Epstein Becker & Green
Tim Falade, Assistant Vice President at HCA Healthcare
Kathie Heimerdinger, Founder of The Heimerdinger Foundation
James O’Brien, Chief Operating Officer at Valkyrie Bitcoin Trust
Dr. Sharon D. Peters Executive Director for Community College Initiatives at Tennessee State University
Andrew Sartoris, Assistant Vice President for Strategy & Innovation at HCA Healthcare

Blake Boyd came to Nashville 16 years ago by way of Texas where he attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas and graduated with a degree in Business Management. Boyd is a Senior Vice President at Pinnacle Financial Partners where he has served in various roles since 2011.  He currently works as a Financial Advisor serving clients ranging from middle market businesses to real estate investors to private banking clients.

Jenni Bradley manages strategic projects for Provider Programs and Strategy at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. She helps drives corporate efforts related to value-based reimbursement initiatives and alternative payment arrangements with network physicians and hospitals.

Bradley previously served as director of Talent Development for the Nashville Health Care Council where she oversaw all activities to offer unique education and networking activities for individuals rising in their careers within Nashville’s $95 billion health care industry.

Prior to joining the Council, Bradley was based in Washington, D.C. where she held positions at the U.S. Department of Education, The White House and the Office of Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr. A Nashville native, Bradley received her B.A. in College Scholars from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and her Master’s in Political Management from The George Washington University.

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In his role as Assistant Vice President at HCA Healthcare Tim Falade supports initiatives focused on sustaining and expanding access to quality care. Throughout his healthcare experience, he has served in a variety of roles focused on clinical support, strategy and operational excellence.

Falade’s passion for holistic, community-based, cancer support services was heightened early when friends’ health journey had their families traveling overseas for a holistic cancer care. He is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and an alum of the Nashville Young Leaders Council.

He earned his Master of Business Administration from Belmont University’s Jack C. Massey College of Business.

Andrew Sartoris is Assistant Vice President for Strategy & Innovation at HCA Healthcare, one of the nation’s leading providers of healthcare services with over 180 hospitals and 2,000 ambulatory sites of care. In his role, he serves as an internal strategist to support the development and execution of growth strategies across the HCA enterprise. Sartoris has over 17 years of experience in healthcare consulting, strategy, and operations. Prior to his current role, he worked in Deloitte Consulting’s healthcare practice, where he advised healthcare providers and health plans on strategic and operational challenges. He earned his B.S in Economics from Duke University and M.B.A. from Vanderbilt University.

Meals 4 Health and Healing, the signature program of The Heimerdinger Foundation, is a heart-centered, caring community preparing organic, immune-boosting, for anti-inflammatory meals free of charge for cancer patients undergoing cancer treatment and their caregivers. Since 2013, the nonprofit has served over 100,000 meals to hundreds of clients and their caregivers in Williamson and Davidson Counties.

Research shows that nearly 80% of cancer patients end up malnourished as a result of cancer treatment. Consuming nourishing meals can make a vital difference to cancer patients as they fight their illness and heal from treatment.

With an emphasis on serving those who are in crisis, who have little or no caregiving support, or who are financially unable to provide themselves with nutritious foods, the program elevates the recovery process for many who may be at high risk for malnutrition, which can slow down or stop treatment.

In addition, with over 250 active teen and adult volunteers participating in their program each year, the organization educates those volunteers about eating a “whole food” diet to reduce inflammation and to reduce the likelihood of chronic, inflammatory conditions like cancer. By educating patients, their families, and the adult and teen volunteers who provide the giving hands and hearts behind the organization’s mission, the seven-person team at The Heimerdinger Foundation is transforming the health and nutritional choices of countless people in middle Tennessee.

For more information about The Heimerdinger Foundation, visit hfmeals.org. Follow The Heimerdinger Foundation on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Donate to The Heimerdinger Foundation at https://hfmeals.org/donate/.

About The Heimerdinger Foundation: 
The Heimerdinger Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 2011, provides nutritious, organic meals and education, free of charge, for families facing cancer. Research shows that nearly 80% of people facing cancer end up malnourished as a result of treatment.

Being poorly nourished worsens side effects, reduces the effectiveness of or can stop treatment, and lengthens recovery time once treatment ends. Since its inception, the organization has served over 100,000 meals to clients and their caregivers in Davidson and Williamson counties and educated hundreds of volunteer adults and teens about proper, healing nutrition for life through its Meals 4 Health and Healing organic garden, kitchen, and meal delivery program.

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David Ortiz’s Dominican Ozama Rum
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Big Papi’s New York Debut: David Ortiz’s Dominican Ozama Rum Lands in Manhattan With Bold Flavor and Cultural Swagger

By Rocco Delfino — 2 days ago

Big Papi’s New York Debut: David Ortiz’s Dominican Ozama Rum Lands in Manhattan With Bold Flavor and Cultural Swagger

In a city that appreciates craftsmanship, culture, and a killer cocktail, there’s a new player on the scene ready to disrupt bar menus from Brooklyn rooftops to Central Park South. Hall-of-Fame legend David “Big Papi” Ortiz—yes, that David Ortiz—is officially entering the world of fine spirits with the launch of Ozama Rum, a 100% Dominican-made, ultra-premium rum that’s already turning heads in the five boroughs.

Far more than just a celebrity vanity label, Ozama Rum is a deeply personal project rooted in Ortiz’s Dominican heritage, shaped by tradition, and tailored for modern palates. Named after the Ozama River in Santo Domingo, the spirit is crafted from start to finish in the Dominican Republic, earning the prestigious Ron Dominicano designation that certifies its authenticity.

David Ortiz’s Dominican Ozama Rum

“To me, Ozama isn’t just about rum, it’s about identity, pride, and progress,” said Ortiz. “I wanted to build something that celebrates the energy and soul of my people and shows the world what we’re made of. It’s always been important for me to do things the right way, which is why this labor of love has been one of the most rewarding projects of my career. I can’t wait for people to try it! They say that perfection doesn’t exist, but you can get close to it.”

Ozama Rum: Where Craft Meets Culture in a Bottle

Available in three expressions, Ozama Rum brings a polished Dominican sensibility to Manhattan’s world-class cocktail scene—whether you’re sipping at Bemelmans, lounging at Soho House, or unwinding in a Brooklyn brownstone. Each expression is aged for at least a year in oak barrels and bottled on the island, delivering a terroir-driven taste of the Caribbean with unmistakable sophistication.

  • Ozama Blanco: Bright, citrus-forward, and kissed with white pepper, this platinum-hued rum is clean yet complex. Ideal for refreshing cocktails in Greenwich Village patios or summer spritzes on the rooftop at Le Bain.

  • Ozama Añejo: Smooth and refined, this copper-colored beauty delivers layers of vanilla, toffee, and a subtle note of chocolate—perfect for pairing with dessert at Eleven Madison Park or sipping solo in a Chelsea loft.

  • Ozama Gran Añejo: Rich and elegant, with aromas of honey, dates, candied fruits, and fine wood. This is a sipping rum made for slow conversations in the Upper East Side, where the bottle becomes the centerpiece.

Price points are as approachable as the flavor profiles—ranging from $25 to $40 for 700ml—making Ozama accessible luxury in every sense.

A New Spirit for a City of Tastemakers

New York is no stranger to premium spirits. But Ozama enters the market at a moment when consumer interest in rum is booming. According to Global View Research, the global rum market was valued at $11.77 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow 5.6% annually through 2030. That growth is driven by a shift toward artisanal, culturally rooted spirits—just the kind of origin story Manhattan drinkers crave.

And Ortiz isn’t just lending his name. The former MLB star partnered closely with a team of Dominican artisans and Abbott Wolfe, CEO of Drink2Success, to bring this vision to life.

“From day one, David had a clear vision to create an ultra-premium rum that feels authentic, vibrant, and undeniably Dominican—it was important to him to spotlight the Dominican Republic and at the same time give back to the community that raised him,” said Wolfe.

Giving Back, the Dominican Way

Ozama Rum’s purpose doesn’t stop at the bottle. Two percent of the brand’s profits will go toward cleaning up the Ozama River and supporting underserved communities along its banks. It’s a gesture that feels at home in a city that values global citizenship and local impact.

Where to Find Ozama in New York City

Available now online at drinkozama.com, Ozama is rolling out this summer at select retailers, bars, and restaurants across Manhattan and Brooklyn. Early interest from high-end mixologists in Tribeca, Williamsburg, and the Upper West Side suggests Ozama will quickly find a place among New York’s finest pours.

Whether it’s mixed into a refined mojito at Dante, poured neat at Maison Premiere, or offered as a pairing in the city’s growing number of Afro-Caribbean culinary spots, Ozama is a rum built for New York sophistication—with a heartbeat from the Dominican Republic.

Final Pour: The Big Apple Meets Big Papi

In a town where everything is fast, curated, and fueled by narrative, Ozama Rum offers something deeper—a bottle with a backstory, a cultural anchor, and the kind of authenticity that New Yorkers respect.

As Ortiz says, “They say that perfection doesn’t exist, but you can get close to it.”

And here in Manhattan, close to perfect is more than enough reason to raise your glass.

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Taraji P. Henson Brings Her Seven Daughters Moscato
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Taraji P. Henson Brings Her Seven Daughters Moscato for with Manhattan NYC Magic to the High Seas with Princess Cruises

By Katie Macken — 2 days ago

Taraji P. Henson Brings Her Moscato for with Manhattan NYC Magic to the High Seas with Princess Cruises

Broadway lights, Harlem hustle, and now—Taraji P. Henson’s Moscato on the open ocean.

The Emmy-nominated, Oscar-nodded powerhouse and entrepreneur has teamed up with Princess Cruises to bring her celebrated Seven Daughters Moscato to the brand’s exclusive Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection. And while Taraji’s roots are D.C. born, New Yorkers know she’s always brought a Manhattan-level boldness to everything she touches—whether it’s a red carpet or a wine glass.

“Seven Daughters is more than just a bottle of wine; it’s a celebration in a glass,” Henson shared. “Our Moscato is inviting, refreshing, and perfect for moments of connection which is what makes this partnership with Princess Cruises so amazing. Now we can experience this feeling with people from around the world, whether they’re toasting under the stars or relaxing on the open sea.”

That connection is something every New Yorker craves—especially when escaping the city’s breakneck pace for a well-earned recharge. With Princess Cruises offering sailings from the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, it’s never been easier to trade the city skyline for an ocean horizon—glass of Henson’s Moscato in hand.

Featuring notes of tropical fruit and honeysuckle, Seven Daughters offers the kind of bright, celebratory flavor that fits perfectly between a jazz brunch in the West Village and a rooftop toast in Midtown. Now, thanks to Princess Cruises, it’s also a go-to at sea.

“Princess Cruises is committed to curating distinctive, high-quality experiences for our guests, and Seven Daughters aligns seamlessly with that vision,” said Sami Kohen, Vice President of Food and Beverage at Princess Cruises. “Taraji’s Moscato reflects a bold yet approachable style that we know our guests will love.”

Henson’s wine joins an all-star lineup of bottles in the Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection, which includes Jason Momoa and Blaine Halvorson’s Meili Vodka, Camila and Matthew McConaughey’s Pantalones Organic Tequila, Blake Lively’s Betty Booze and Betty Buzz, Liev Schreiber’s Sláinte Irish Whiskey, Jason Aldean’s Melarosa wines, Romero Britto’s Love Prosecco, and Kylie Minogue’s No Alcohol Sparkling Rosé.

But Henson’s addition feels especially New York in spirit—sophisticated, stylish, and full of character. For city dwellers looking to trade the subway for a stateroom, Seven Daughters is an invitation to unwind without leaving the energy behind.

As Strategic Advisor and Creative Collaborator, Henson has helped shape every aspect of the wine’s personality, much like she’s done with her most iconic roles. And just like New York, this Moscato is lively, expressive, and impossible to ignore.

Whether you’re a downtown art dealer, an Upper East Side socialite, or a Brooklyn creative looking to unplug, a Princess cruise with a glass of Taraji’s Moscato might be just the blend of luxury and leisure you didn’t know you needed.

So the next time you’re booking a departure from NYC, remember: this isn’t just another cruise. It’s a chance to sip something special—with a side of Taraji—and toast to life beyond the grid.

Find out more about the Love Lines Premium Liquors Collection and upcoming sailings at www.princess.com.

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WWE and Seagram’s Escapes Spiked Boozy
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Manhattan Is the First Stop for WWE and Seagram’s Escapes Spiked Boozy, Slam-Worthy Drinks

By Rocco Delfino — 3 days ago

WWE and Seagrams Just Dropped Boozy, Slam-Worthy Drinks—And Manhattan Is the First Stop

NEW YORK, NY — In a city where everything moves faster, hits harder, and parties louder, WWE is making its boldest off-the-top-rope move yet—launching its first-ever ready-to-drink alcoholic beverage right here in the heart of Manhattan.

WWE and Seagram’s Escapes Spiked just announced a multi-year partnership that’s as wild as a Hell in a Cell match in Madison Square Garden. The result? A brand-new, wrestling-themed lineup of flavored malt beverages, designed for fans who live big and drink bold.

And New York, you’re first in line. From East Village rooftops to uptown bodegas, the Seagram’s Escapes Spiked WWE Series is already popping up across the five boroughs—just in time to raise a can and body slam the summer heat.

The Big Apple Meets the Big Elbow

This isn’t just a licensing deal. It’s a cultural collision between two icons—WWE, the global entertainment empire born in gritty arenas, and Seagram’s, a brand rooted in fun, flavor, and that “no apologies” energy New Yorkers know best.

“Seagram’s has a rich history of innovation and a deep commitment to authenticity, making it the ideal partner to go to market with our first-ever licensed ready-to-drink product,” said Grant Norris-Jones, EVP and Head of Global Partnerships at TKO Group Holdings, WWE’s parent company. “And let’s be honest—there’s no better place to launch than NYC.”

Flavor That Hits Like a Superkick

The new Spiked series isn’t here to sip quietly—it’s here to stand on tables in the Meatpacking District and shout “Let’s get ready to rumble!” at rush hour. The three debut flavors bring serious personality:

  • Rumble Punch™ – A remix of the fan-favorite Jamaican Me Happy, this tropical knockout blends strawberry, watermelon, lemon, and guava. Perfect for rooftop hangs in SoHo or post-work drinks on the Hudson.

  • Pineapple Powerhouse™ – With bold pineapple, cherry, and lime, this can packs all the energy of a 2 a.m. dance floor in Hell’s Kitchen.

  • Slammin’ Blueberry™ – A clean one-two punch of blueberry and lemon, tailor-made for chill park days at Bryant Park or Union Square pre-games.

All three flavors are now stocked across Manhattan—from your corner deli on Lexington to upscale liquor boutiques in the West Village.

WWE Superstars Coming to a Bodega Near You?

This isn’t just about what’s in the can. As an Official Partner of WWE, Seagram’s Escapes Spiked will be front and center at major WWE events—Money in the Bank®, SummerSlam®, and Survivor Series®—and heavily featured in exclusive digital content starring your favorite Superstars.

But NYC gets something even better: in-person appearances from WWE Superstars at select retailers across the city. Think autograph signings, selfie ops, and unexpected encounters with wrestling royalty at your go-to wine shop in the East 60s or downtown bodega.

“Our collaboration with WWE marks an exciting moment for Seagram’s Spiked as we connect with WWE’s global—and very NYC-centric—fanbase,” said Jaime Polisoto, brand director for Seagram’s Escapes. “Our sales team is amped to bring Superstars directly into the city to meet fans where they live.”

From MSG to Madison Ave—This Is New York’s Drink of the Summer

If there was ever a city made for this kind of crossover, it’s NYC. From the gritty legacy of wrestling nights at Madison Square Garden to the rooftop bar culture that defines Manhattan summers, Seagram’s Escapes Spiked WWE Series is built for the urban fight fan, the flavor chaser, and anyone who wants to sip something loud while living larger.

So next time you’re grabbing a six-pack for a rooftop party in Williamsburg, pregaming before a Barclays event, or just need something cold to crush after a subway grind—grab a can and drink like a champion.

Because this summer in NYC, the most electrifying drinks in entertainment have officially entered the ring.

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