Moved by Dancing & Have Mercy

• VegNews Magazine's "Buzz" feature interview with choreographer James Koroni, takes us through the journey that led up to his use of art as activism and his community of "moving" dancers, Enforced Arch. Raised as a Mormon, dealing with his father's passing from cancer, and discovering the physical and emotional rewards of telling stories through dance, advocating on behalf of animals, and eating a plant-based diet - Koroni is inspiring performers everywhere. James and his dancers were recently invited to perform “Please Don’t Touch” at Paris Vegan Day, and have started an Indiegogo project to fund the trip. Please donate today!

• Another great opportunity to see James and his dancers perform is tonight at "Have Mercy!"

Thursday, September 15 Greenhouse 150 Varick Street (TriBeCa ) 7:30 to 10 p.m. Tickets for Have Mercy! are $25 in advance (http://bit.ly.nTFf8p) and $40 at the door

“Have Mercy! (Fashion Event)” will feature new couture designs, vegan treats, music, dancing, and chocolate. Proceeds from the affair will benefit Mercy for Animals, a New York-based animal rescue organization. You'll also haver the opportunity to snag the latest issue of PINNACLE: Reinvent the Icon.

Each of the fashion lines to be showcased bills itself as anti-fur and earth-friendly. Among them:

• Fraley Le, an award-winner from Chicago whose specialties include vibrantly colored evening gowns and cocktail dresses.
• Yane Mode, an edgy brand famous for its sleek drapings and soft jersey knits.
• Pretty Birdie by Stephanie Teague, who creates apparel and accessories from organic and sustainable fabrics infused with antique surplus and recycled materials.
• Sew Moe Designs, based in Asheville, South Carolina, offering handmade updated-vintage originals.

Weaving amongst the models, partygoers will find hors d’oeuvres from Verite Catering, dark chocolates from Rescue Chocolate, additional desserts from Bolaji Cuisine, functional waters from Balance, and other drinks from Mercy Beverage.  The Greenhouse is New York’s first nightclub with LEED certification. Its walls are made of sustainable bamboo rather than wood, and the space is constructed mostly from recycled materials. It has the feel of a glitzy nature preserve with a huge waterfall and a ceiling made of live plants.

Funds will be donated to Mercy for Animals, a national non-profit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to farmed animals and promoting compassionate food choices and policies. For further information contact 917-767-7283.