If you haven't heard of Ciudad Juârez, Mexico, your New York Times subscription is due for a renewal. More than 5,000 people have died in the city since the drug wars began two years ago, making it the "the most violent zone in the world outside of declared war zone," according to the El Paso Times. Until now, we didn't know how to lend a helping hand, which makes Project Paz, a charity started by New Yorkers from the area hell bent on dissipating the brutality by introducing community-building initiatives, a really good thing. And, if you're around Tuesday night, you can donate to the cause and join the committed NYC Mexican crew, along with a clutch of top fashionistas—think Amanda Hearst, Michael Bastian, Sylvana Ward Durrett, and Carolina Herrera De Baez—at a benefit party, Project Art, that's set to be the highlight our our week. The good times start at Industria Superstudio, and, naturally, it's all about art (plus, with a host committee like that, you know fashion's on the menu too). There's a silent auction with a laundry list of Latin and New York artists that would make collectors swoon—Benjamin Hollingsworth, Diego Singh, Alvaro Alcocer, and Pepe Mar already have our wallets sweating. And if holiday dresses are on your winter wardrobe short-list, this may be the bash to get 'em on the cheap—Joseph Alutzarra, Valentino, Lulu Frost, Alexander Wang, Vena Cava, and Bibhu are all up for the taking. So, if you want to add a little feel-good to your Tuesday night, the entry price is worth every dollar—it's a small price to pay for potential peace, not to mention a fete fun enough to merit that Wednesday morning hangover.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., Industria Superstudio, Studio 6, 89 Jane Street (at Washington Street). Tickets, $150, available here.
