25A February 2016 by 25A Magazine

February 2016

NEW CITY /Luxury LONG ISLAND GoldYORK Coast Magazine

Real Estate Issue

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN'S

DOTTIE HERMAN

URBAN ZEN

SAG HARBOR

4 BAY STREET, SAG HARBOR, NY 11963

NEW YORK

705 GREENWICH ST, NEW YORK, NY 10014

URBANZEN.COM

contents February 2016 Cover

42 Dottie Herman A Real Deal HOLIDAY 12 Valentine's Day Gift Guide 2016

FEATURE 16 The 25A List: Manhattan's Most Powerful Personalities 34 Bridgewood Farm

FASHION 18 Spring Love 26 The Perfect Valentine's Gift for Him and Her 28 On the Hunt 60 A Surfeit of Love

HOME 48 2016: The Year of the Monkey 52 Stellar Interiors 54 101 Bedford 56 Laffey Fine Homes International

TASTE

66 Blu on Park 70 Mr. Purple 72 The Pomeroy 74 Restaurant Roundup 78 Creating the Perfect Winter Salad 80 Great Valentine's Recipes

contents 92

REGIMEN 82 A New Year, New You 84 Swing Pain-Free

JETSET

86 The Stafford London 88 Wild About Wales 90 Painted Hall 92 Noble Houses 94 The Silver Muse Takes Shape 96 Rocky Mountain Luxury 98 Il Salviatino 100 Sailing in Style

ART 102 Barbara Ernst Prey 104 Diana Pinck

PROFILE

104

106 Beth Shak 108 Douglas T. Burns and Randy Scott Zelin 110 Dr. David Shusterman

25A - List 112 A Private Event With Dr. Danovich 114 Prostate Cancer Foundation Hosted The 2015 New York Dinner 116 New York Charity Scenes 118 Three British Events

112

120 Galas Galore

Dornbracht CL.1

Helping clients share your vision is a breeze when they can touch, see and compare top-selling bath, kitchen and lighting products in our state-of-the-art showrooms. With our consultantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; product knowledge and planning, as well as coordination with you and your contractors, Ferguson provides it all to help bring your design to life. FERGUSON.COM

ÂŠ2015 Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. 1115 65641

A&D Building Soho Farmingdale Maspeth Mt Kisco Now Open: Greenvale

STYLE THAT WORKS

beautifully

25A

Long Island’s Gold Coast Luxury Magazine

Publisher Chase Backer Editor-in-Chief Christopher A. Pape Ofﬁce Manager Sarah Pincus Art Director Pernilla Hughes Director of Marketing-NYC Suzanne Vigliotti Assistant Editor/Social Media Ryan Wilk Editor-at-Large Gwen Wunderlich-Smith Features Editor Victoria R. Crosby Fashion Editor Christina Pacelli Social Editor Clara Morgan Food Editor Andrea Correale Nutrition Editor Lindsay Brustein Rosen, M.S., R.D. Arts and Travel Editor Diana Pinck Gold Coast Writer Monica Randall Contributors Norah Lawlor, W.A Muller, Hillary Latos, Ann Lawlor, Jennifer Pelaez, Carlos Lacayo, Master Pun-Yin, Linda Alexander, Danny McAvoy, Brian Delcastillo, Janis Turk, Tori Phelps, Chris Marchese, Salome Langvin, Spencer Scalzitti Contributing Photographers Patrick McMullan, Tom Fitzgerald & Pam Deutchman, Stacey Skordas, Wayne Herrschaft, Michael Paniccia, Alan Barry, Paul Prince, Benno Klandt Chase Backer's wardrobe provided by Giorgenti Suits Contact: Jericho, NY 11753 For advertisment please call 516.864.2525 for more information.

April/May 2015

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Writers, Models, Musicians and Photographers please inquire © Copyright 2016 by 25A magazine, All rights reserved. 25A magazine is published eleven times per year. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher and editors are not responsible for unsolicited material and it will be treated as such and unconditionally assigned for publication subject to 25A magazine’s right to edit.

SAG HARBOR VILLAGE

BERNARD

Tom Fitzgerald Photography

EAST HAMPTON

Age Defying

The Boxing Legend

LIVE LEARN LOVE EAT WORK HOST PLAY

As traditional ideas of “luxury” evolve, Laffey Fine Homes International is leading the charge to redefine luxury beyond the living space. We believe what’s truly valuable to today’s affluent is the way you Live, Learn, Love, Eat, Work, Host, and Play. We are united by a desire to deliver a high-value, highly personalized experience to an increasingly savvy, sophisticated clientele. Established in 1974 this is over 4 decades in the making. We sell over 1 Billion Dollars worth of homes annually. Laffey Fine Homes International is the premier North Shore residential brokerage. Call us today for all your luxury real estate needs at 516-200-5700 or email to info@laffeyintl.com.

WE’RE LOCAL. WE’RE GLOBAL.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Happy New Year! The air has definitely turned chilly, but our pages are as hot as ever! As I look outside my office window, I see signs of the exciting year ahead. There is a stir in the air and 25A is your vehicle to capture your imagination. One of the areas where we see much growth and opportunity is in real estate, and thus we present the real estate issue. My hope is you’ll use us as your guide for all of your luxury living needs. On our cover this month we present the tigress of real estate, Dottie Herman. We sat down with her to discuss what makes her tick and her vision for the growth and prosperity of her company, Douglas Elliman. This born and bred New Yorker loves the challenge that property offers and she inspires us with her upbeat philosophy of work and life. I hope that you, my extraordinary readers, have noticed the increase in quality and quantity of our fashion spreads and overall aesthetic. I’m proud of my team and know that we’re producing the most quality publication possible. Because Valentine’s Day is in February, we also showcase our favorite products, clothing, recipes and restaurants. We know these will delight. As always, travel and social gatherings are covered, and Monica Randall goes in depth on Bridgewood farm. We know that there are other publications in the NYC and Long Island markets, so we thank you for your loyalty – we hope you love the magazine as much as we love putting it together. We are blessed to have the best writers and readers in the world. Wishing you a wonderful start to your new year.

Chase Backer Publisher

A life of wealth. A wealth of life.

Trust • Service • Performance Trust w Service w Performance w Since 1983 516-935-1200 • fliinvestors.com

516-935-1200 w fliinvestors.com

Valentine's Day By Ann Lawlor

Tom Ford Nail Lacquer in Carnal Red $35 tomford.com

Repechage Conditioning Lip Gloss in Pink Champagne $18.00 repechage.com

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La Prairie Limited-Edition Cellular Radiance Cream Blush in Lotus Glow $70 laprairie.com

Peter Thomas Roth Strawberry Scrub $38, PeterThomasRoth.com

Modo Paper-Thin Titanium in Red, Style 666 $270 modo.com

Heidi Klein Sardinia D-G Underwired Bow Bikini $335 saks.com

Gift Guide 2016

Le Métier de Beauté Moisture Matte Lipstick in Amelie $32 bergdorfgoodman.com

Caudalie Rose de Vigne $30 (50ml) us.caudalie.com

Bulgari Eau Parfumée Au Thé Rouge 1.3 oz $72 2.5 oz $97 5 oz $160 bergdorfgoodman.com

Manolo Blahnik Xafiore Sandal in Pink Leather $1295 saksfifthavenue.com

Angelo David Large Paddle Brush $65 angelodavid.com

Violife Slim Sonic in Sweetheart $15.95 violife.com

city

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57th & 5th MONDAY, JANUARY 6 10:06AM NEW YORK, USA

features

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THE 25A LIST

Manhattan's Most Powerful Personalities (in no particular order)

Photos by Patrick McMullan

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1. Danny Strong Co-Creator & Writer, Fox's Empire

7. Clive Davis Chief Creative Officer, Sony Music

2. Adele Singer & Songwriter

8. Daisy Ridley Actress, Star Wars: The Force Awakens

3. Will Smith Actor, Producer, Rapper, & Songwriter 4. Craig Susser Owner, Craigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant 5. Andy Gelb Slate PR 6. Cheryl Boone Isaacs President, Academy Awards

9. Charles Finch Founder & CEO of Finch & Partners 10. Graydon Carter Vanity Fair Editor-in-chief 11. Jason Spire Talent Manager & Producer, Inspire Entertainment 12. Jeff Klein Hotelier & Restaurateur, JK Hotel Group

13. Ron Burkle Co-Founder & Managing Partner of The Yucaipa Companies, LLC

18. Oscar Isaac Actor 19. Patrick Whitesell Co-CEO of WME

14. Kieran Breen Chairman of the 2015 Board of Directors, L. A. BAFTA 15. Lynn Hirschberg W Magazine, Editor-at-large 16. Neil Portnow President/CEO of The Recording Academy & GRAMMY FoundaLon 17. Nancy Lesser Senior Vice President of Talent & Media RelaLons, HBO

20. Ricky Gervais Comedian 21. Rob Stringer Chairman of the Columbia Records, part of Sony Music Entertainment 22. Robert De Niro Actor & Producer 23. Scott Borchetta Founder & CEO of Big Machine Records 24. Romona Keveza Fashion Designer 25. Vikas Kapoor Chairman & CEO at Mezocliq - meZocliq LLC

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fashion

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SPRING

LOVE Photos by Michael Paniccia Styling by Christina Pacelli Produced by Christopher A. Pape Model Sydney Fe/Major Models Thank you to 101 Bedford in Williamsburg for use of their space

KALMANOVICH: Blouse, $535, kalmanovich.net MADIYAH AL-SHARQI: Trousers, $489, Fivestory New York A PEACE TREATY: Catacoa Scarf, $225, Barneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New York MARK CROSS: Hadley Baby Flap Handbag, $1,995, Hirshleifers Manhasset ALEXANDRE BIRMAN: Loretta New Cage Bootie, $895, Saks Fifth Avenue LELE SADOUGHI: Striped Orchid Earrings, $175, lelesadoughi.com (Left hand) A PEACE TREATY: Vega Bracelet, $220, apeacetreaty.com (Right hand) MARSHELLYS: Silver and Gold Plated Arc Rings, $60 and $75, marshellys.com

fashion

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"She turned to the sunlight And shook her yellow head, And whispered to her neighbor: Winter is dead." A.A.Mine

USE UNUSED: Jersey Bralette, $210, useunused.com VEDA: Crosby Skirt, $625, thisisveda.com TAMUNA INGORKVA: Ketevani Blazer, $392 GLORY AND HONOR: Single Rail Choker, $395, gloryandhonor.com MARSHELLYS KATANA: Stud Earrings, $52, marshellys.com LUUR: Bangles, $75 each, ANTHOM, NYC, 877.747.1776 (Left hand) A PEACE TREATY: Ruvu Spiral Ring, $118, apeacetreaty.com; VICTORIA DENY JEWELRY: Pebbles Gold Ring, $150 victoriadenyjewelry.com (Right hand) GLORY AND HONOR: Labyrinth v2, $275, gloryandhonor.com CHRISTIAN DIOR: Vintage Sunglasses, $299, Caserta Eye, NYC, 212.627.393721

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MISSONI: Spacedye One-Piece Swimsuit, $760, missoni.com or Missoni, NYC, 212.517.9339 STUART WEITZMAN: Crisscross Sandals, $355, stuartweitzman.com FENDI: Vintage Sunglasses, $349, Caserta Eye, NYC, 212.627.3937

"Despite the forecast, live like it's spring." Lilly Pulitzer

fashion

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VEDA: Amo Top, $435, thisisveda.com TAMUNA INGORKVA: Nino Skirt, $283 ISRAEL: Vintage Sunglasses, $239, Caserta Eye, NYC, 212.627.3937 A PEACE TREATY: Yala Gold Faux Septum Ring, $85, cloakanddaggernyc.com GLORY AND HONOR: New Classic Chain Link Silver Bracelets, $695 each, gloryandhonor.com ANTIPEARLE: V Jay Multi Pearl Bracelets, $517 each, antipearle.com/en (Right hand) MARSHELLYS: Gold Plated Arc Ring, $75, marshellys.com (Left hand) GLORY AND HONOR: Labyrinth V2 Gold Ring, $275, gloryandhonor.com

"That is one good thing about this world... there are always sure to be more springs." L.M. Montgomery

"Give me such shows â&#x20AC;&#x201D; give me the streets of Manhattan." Walt Whitman

fashion

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By Sarah Pincus & Ryan Wilk

ow often have we struggled to find that perfect fit? The piece of clothing that looks, feels and wears like it was made for you? Fortunately for men, they need not search any longer. Stantt, the up and coming men's shirt manufacturer, has done away with the draining process of going through shirt after shirt only to find an ill-fit, and has created an innovative method of sizing- yielding peerless results. Disposing of the outdated 150-year-old sizing standard, Stantt has designed a new sizing system, after gathering extensive data and measurements used from 3D body scans of men. No longer will men have to try to intergrate into a size category from small to XXL. With Stantt, men of all builds will fit effortlessly into one of the 75 size options that were created after 3-D software was used to digitally test-fit thousands of gentlemen. No longer will men have to spend hours in a suit store being measured, and handed sample after sample. With Stantt, men can shop online and have their 100% Egyptian cotton, woven in Europe shirt, tailored for their perfect fit, delivered within 7-10 days. The online shopping process is a breeze. All a man needs to do is take three simple measurements (chest, waist and sleeve) and fill those measurements in on the shopping page of the Stantt website. With standard sizes, men are

26 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

at risk of purchasing a shirt that fits perfectly in the waist but tightly in the chest, or perfectly in the chest but has too short of a sleeve, etc. By filling in only 3 measurements on the Stantt website, the risk and discomfort is eliminated, and at an affordable price. Stantt has made this possible by partnering with apparel and university experts to create a patent-pending sizing technology called datafit. By entering the measurements into the site an algorithm matches the man with his perfect fit and in just a short time he receives his customized Stantt shirt. The innovation that Stantt has brought to the menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shirt industry is unparalleled. Shirt shopping for men has become personalized, convenient and easy. On the Stantt website men can choose from casual and dress shirts in order to obtain the perfect shirt for any occasion. With the old sizing standard of Small, Medium and Large, only 15% of men were able to find a perfect fit. With Stantt, 95% of men are guaranteed to receive a great fit, forever changing the way they will shop, dress and feel in their new and improved Stantt shirt. stantt.com

GIFT FOR HIM AND HER

Stantt and Salvage Sacs

he story of Salvage Sacs begins when Stacey Skordas cleaned her house and dug up an old handbag made from a towel. It was designed by a friend of a friend who made them for living, but had since gone out of business. The cross between a towel and a bag was an idea that Stacey simply could not let die. For the past year, Stacey has been keeping this idea alive with her new business, Salvage Sacs. At Salvage Sacs, Stacey takes vintage towels and turns them into bags that are perfect for taking to the pool or the beach. All of Stacey’s bags are handmade using a variety of towels including retro printed, terry cloth and designer towels. She mixes an array of designs and fabrics to create bags that are unique and original. It takes about four or five towels to make each bag and they come in two different sizes. Stacey never makes two of the same bags, so anything purchased from her will be one of a kind. In addition to being unique and fashionable, they are also designed for practicality. The inside of the bag is lined with plastic in order to keep the user’s belongings dry. Also, rather than being just a single pouch, the bags also have additional compartments that are perfect for storing sunscreen and other beach related items.

Stacey makes about twenty bags per week. She is constantly collecting towels to use to make more bags. For promotion, she goes to a lot of trunk shows. She’s been to Rye, Scarsdale and Olive and Bette’s in New York City. Although, her bags are really popular in the Hamptons, people all over the country buy them. Stacey is already thinking about scaling her business to the masses and her bags will soon be available in Europe. Growth is something that is constantly on Stacey’s mind as she truly believes in the power of this idea. In addition to beach bags, she plans to add camera bags, knapsacks, messenger bags and more. Despite all the potential for growth, Stacey still makes all her bags by hand and puts a strong amount of effort and love into each one. “I really feel like I give birth to bags, and then I give them up for adoption.” There needs to be a good degree of passion for a creative project like this, and Stacey brings it 100 percent. Although towels and bags used to be seen as two separate things, the line between them is starting to blur and they are ready to take the world by storm. salvagesacs.com

fashion

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ON THE HUNT Photos by Michael Paniccia Styling by Christina Pacelli Produced by Christopher A. Pape Model Anna Besedina/Images Management Thank you to 101 Bedford in Williamsburg for use of their space

3.1 PHILLIP LIM: Braided Jacquard Dress, $850, 31philliplim.com 3.1 PHILLIP LIM: Utility Shorts, $850, 31philliplim.com INVERNI: Iris Hat, $185, inverni.it ANZIE: Micro Starburst Studs, $475, Saks Fifth Avenue MIMI PROBER: Metamorphosed Art Sculpted Wave Bracelet, $1,300, mimiprober.com VICTORIA DENY JEWELRY: Pebbles Black Rhodium Ring, $150, victoriadenyjewelry.com

fashion

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"No woman who had been intimate with a god was easily disturbed." Michael Cadnum

ALENA AHKMADULLINA: Dress, $1,056, shopcurve.com A PEACE TREATY: Botero Silver Earrings, $150, apeacetreaty.com (Left hand) ANTIPEARLE: Double Blacktop Pearl Ring, $301, antipearle.com/en; LELE SADOUGHI: Sandbag Ring, $120, Bloomingdales (Right hand) ANTIPEARLE: Crab Ring with Freshweater Pearl, $310, antipearle.com/en

fashion

25A "It is better to be looked over than overlooked." Mae West

AKRIS: Black Techno Mesh Top, $695, akris.ch AKRIS: Long Plisse Shorts Skirt, $2,490, akris.ch MISSONI: Spacedye Turban, $620, missoni.com or or Missoni, NYC, 212.517.9339 BERGÃ&#x2C6;: Leather Belt, bergeitalia.com (Right arm) GLORY AND HONOR: New Classic Chain Link Bracelet, $695 each, gloryandhonor.com (Left arm) VICTORIA DENY JEWELRY: Bone Cubes Cuffs in Silver and Black Rhodium, $420 each, victoriadenyjewelry.com; VICTORIA DENY JEWELRY: Leaves Diamond Black Rhodium Ring, $630, victoriadenyjewelry.com

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Bridgewood Farm, built around 1917, became a hangout for gamblers and bootleggers during the days of prohibition

BRIDGEWOOD FARM A Writer's Hideaway and a Ghost

Story and Photos by Monica Randall

t seems that ever since the quill pen was invented writers have always sought a quiet hideaway where they could draw inspiration from nature, surrounded by peace and quiet. Everyone from Jane Austen, Ernest Hemingway and Stephen King had some place to get away from it all. Truman Capote escaped to his breezy bungalow in the Hamptons and Isak Dinesen retreated to her jungle hideaway to write: Out of Africa. Lillian Hellman had her famous beach house by the sea, and F. Scott Fitzgerald was grateful to have a tiny room of his own over the garage at his mansion on 6 Gateway Drive, here in Great Neck. It was there in those humble quarters that he wrote his most famous novel: The Great Gatsby. I may not be in their league, but life here on Long Island had gotten too stressful, and I needed a tiny place of my own. Back in the early eighties, I had saved for years to find an escape up in the Catskill Mountains. At the time real estate was so cheap in those remote wooded areas, and just about every property came with a lake, waterfall, stream or river nearby. It didn’t take me long to find a 100-year-old abandoned farmhouse, a fixer upper, they called it, on a small twenty-acre island. There were five other houses on it, three of them also abandoned at the time. You had to cross a rickety wooden bridge to get to it. What the real estate agent neglected to tell me was that the charming Victorian farmhouse I fell in love with was haunted. Gangsters and Indians It took two years to make the place livable, and I was too busy renovating everything to notice anything odd. The only hint of strangeness was the random sounds in the attic, but this was the woods, and I assumed there were raccoons, possums or squirrels sharing the place. It took a while before I began seeing orbs, balls of light, upstairs or floating about in the garden. The island also came with a legend about an old Indian who had been shot in the head after he ran off with a white woman who was married to a local farmer. That was the sort of thing that might have happened up there about a hundred and fifty years ago. I paid it no mind. At night if you sat on the rocks overlooking the river, whose fastmoving current after a heavy rain could sweep you away to your death in an instant, you could hear the faint rhythmic sound of drumming. That vague prevailing sound was almost always there along with the taunting cries of hawks, crows and God knows what other creatures I’d seen flying overhead. Flying things with claws and five-foot wingspans that didn’t seem to exist anywhere else. There were times when I wondered if that place was in fact a time warp, a portal to the past, after all, Dutch Schultz hung out there and killed and 35

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In 1935 mobster dutch schultz is said to have buried a 5 million dollar treasure along the banks of this picturesque esopus creek in Phoenicia. It has never been found

tortured many a rival, or anyone who simply looked at him the wrong way. The most talked about legend was that days before he was pummeled with bullets by fellow gangsters, Dutch buried five million dollars in gold alongside that very same river, marking the spot with an X on the nearest pine tree. Each summer hundreds of adventurous souls flock to the little town of Phoenicia, from all over the country with metal detectors, in a desperate search to find the buried treasure. So far, no one has. Locals believe the Dutchman’s ghost watches over it, and he would probably kill anyone who got close. No, its best to leave it be, in a metal box, measuring 24 x 17 inches, buried only two feet down in the rocky earth. My family thought I was nuts to spend my summer weekends up there alone where bears were known to walk into the house, open the fridge and help themselves to whatever smelled good, and this often included humans. But I was rarely alone, within six months all of the abandoned cottages had been sold, and all seven of us became the best of friends. We’d build bonfires at night along the river, or sit on the porch, and talk about what strange things we’d seen or heard the night before. This often included the spotting of small balls of light hovering about two feet above the ground, and moving very slowly. We sometimes were able to catch them on a film. These were not lightning bugs, but a bluish-gray sphere that seemed to pulse with a kind of living energy. 36 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Jennifer's Story There was a small barn on my property filled with junk left from the 1920s, broken hotel dishes, rusted farm tools, furniture, lamps that didn’t work and a 1928 Remington typewriter. It had been stored in an airtight leather case and the black carbon ribbon still worked. It was some time before I got around to oiling the keys and attempted to write something with it. I had nothing special in mind, just wanted to get the feel of that wonderful old classic machine that was built to last like a shiny black and chrome Mercedes-Benz, but, when I put a blank piece of paper in the roll bar, something strange happened. I felt I was no longer alone in the room. There was no ghost, no sound or cold chills that people often describe in old houses. But a sudden presence of someone timid, almost childlike, urging me to write what they had to say. It came with such a force that I almost felt powerless to control or stop it. “Who are you?” I asked out loud, placing my fingers on the keys, as the words just came, like a tide rushing in. Words were pounding onto the paper, and I had to grab another sheet after the first page was filled with words I did not write. I’d heard of automatic writing where some being or entity outside of you takes over, a spirit or ghost desperately wanting to share their tale of woe. There was something freeing about it, not for me, but for whoever it was causing this sudden deluge of words. I even had

The front porch with original wicker chairs and swing

the strange, distinct feeling that whoever it was had purposely lured me to the house to begin with. I did not feel possessed or scared in any way and was in fact moved that they, she, as it turned out, had chosen me to listen to her story. The words continued to flow on the pages until there were four, and then it stopped. I went back to the beginning when I asked, “Who are you?" “My name is Jennifer,” there had been a pause at the beginning, and I asked: "What do you do Jennifer?"

“Jennifer, what year is it?” I asked. “1933.” She typed and I knew it was the year Prohibition ended. “What do you look like?" I asked. “I’m five feet tall, slim, have short brown hair and eyes, and Johnny said I look just like Clara Bow, the actress. I bobbed my hair just like hers. But she’s from Brooklyn, and has not been in too many movies lately.” “Why are you here, did something happen?" I asked.

“I’m an actress…well, not yet, but I will be on the stage on Broadway. My Johnny knows a lot of bigwigs, important people in the city. He has connections, and he’s going to get me an audition in a Broadway theater.”

“I’m sad, confused. I never even saw a stage; I never got to do what he promised. He said he knew a lot of big shots on Broadway, and I never got to meet them.”

I had from time to time asked a question as my own curiosity and fascination was building. “Where are you from?"

“I’m sorry for that, but why are you here in this house now?”

“The Bronx. For now I work as a coat-check girl at a club in the Bronx. My Johnny goes there to gamble with the big guys, they can drink there now without worry from the police, and they make a lot of money in one night. Sometimes we come up here when it’s too hot in the city, and there are all the big hotels up here where everyone goes. Everyone gets away with a lot of things, the gambling and other things all the thugs are into. They can do what they want to up here. No one knows anything. Not like in the city.”

“I left something here in the attic; I hid it so he wouldn’t find it. Johnny was always giving me things, jewelry, little silver bracelets, a string of beads or an ornamental charm with a stone or something like that for staying with him, coming up here for the weekend. I’d have to wait around all night 'til one or two in the morning with nothing for me to do while he drank and gambled with his friends at the big hotels up here. They were so high up on long winding roads on top of these mountains in the middle of nowhere. 37

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A rose arbor facing the 100 year old Farmhouse

You couldn’t count all the rooms, hundreds, but sometimes they were all full up, and we would stay here. It was only a few minutes away. A friend from the hotel owned or rented this house, and it was so peaceful here, surrounded by water, not like the hotel where there was so much noise. We stayed in this room; it was cool here in the summer. When Johnny won at the poker tables, he was nice to me. He was really good at cards, but sometimes when he lost to someone better, he would turn mean and take back the little present he had given me; he would take it out on me for no reason. One night I said no…it wasn’t my fault that he lost his money. I said I deserved to keep what he gave me. I really like the necklace a lot and wanted to keep it. It had a gold chain with tiny amber crystals, with an oval pendant and topaz stone in the middle. I remember a car pulled up to the house and he went downstairs to talk to someone, I’m not sure what. There was something big going on up at the Overlook Hotel. All the bootleggers and gangster types were up here, everyone was up here. While Johnny was downstairs, I took the necklace off and hid it under the floorboards in the eaves in the attic, where you couldn’t see it. There were no lights. When he came back he demanded that I give the necklace back, I think he wanted to sell it or something. I said, “You’re not getting it back,” I told him I threw it out the window into the woods, and he’d never find it in the dark at night. That’s when he hit me, and I still said no. We were by the stairs and he hit me again and I fell. I fell down to the bottom of the stairs. He was still cursing at me calling me a little whore. I couldn’t move, I couldn’t breathe, my neck hurt, everything hurt, and then it didn’t hurt anymore.” 38 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Outside the bedroom window, so close, in the lush branches of an ancient black pine, an owl began its melancholy hooting. They say that when you hear an owl it means someone is going to die soon. It seemed ironic that it should suddenly make itself known while I was engaged in a conversation with a ghost who died so long ago. I almost asked Jennifer if she could hear it too, but then the idea suddenly struck me as absurd. I wondered if the owl might be a ghost too, and had it called out to her as a warning on that fateful night? There is no other sound quite like it. It’s almost human, a taunting kind of chanting, beautiful, but creepy at the same time. You have to wonder what demon from the netherworld teaches them how to do that one chilling thing. “Jennifer, what happened after you fell?" “I don’t know. I was no longer in my body, I could see myself, or what used to be me, not moving on the floor, but I was watching everything from above. Johnny kept screaming at me to wake up, but I was gone, I was somewhere else. I watched him for a long time; he didn’t do anything, just sat there on the floor with his hands covering his face. Then he went into the kitchen, sat at the table and started drinking. I could see everything he was doing. Sometime later he got up and took the bedspread off one of the beds down here on the main floor. It was a kind of rose and beige color, and then he just sort of rolled me up in it, then got some rope from the trunk of the car and tied it in three places. It was starting to get light

A charming country garden remains unchanged since the 1920's

outside when he finally carried me out into the garden. He removed some wood boards from the floor of the outhouse and just dropped me down. I didn’t feel anything, just a sadness that he could so coldly dispose of me in such a way. No goodbye, no remorse, no proper church burial. It felt all wrong. He then took a hammer and nailed up the boards again, got in his car and left, and that was it.”

Running my fingers over the keys with someone else’s thoughts driving them was a very peculiar experience. I missed the sensory interaction, the tone of a voice, a look in the eyes. There was none of that, just a pounding of words on a blank white page, and even though I could ask a question here and there, and she would answer as best she could, I missed the pulsing, breathing, life force of a living human being.

There was a long pause, and I finally asked. “Why are you still here?"

I found myself caught up in her story and desperately wanted to help her, but I couldn’t just dig up her bones. If I went to the police to report a murder that took place in 1933, they would ask, how do you know? And if I told them a haunted typewriter told me, I’m the only one they would lock up, not the killer who was long dead and buried somewhere in his own cold grave. This whole thing could be some kind of a hallucination, but there was only one way to find out. Find the necklace in the attic where she hid it nearly 80 years ago. In the northeast corner of the spacious bedroom there was an old carved cherrywood bed that came with the house. It was too heavy to move, but I slid off the mattress and wooden planks and was able to shift it enough to get to the tiny wood door that led to the eaves that ran the length of the house. Using a silver hand mirror and flashlight, I crawled into the musty; rat infested, cobwebbed crawl space and searched under each exposed plank. There was nothing there, just some old picture frames, and some dirty glass mason jars. That was the end of my search, at least for that year. The summer ended and I closed the house up for the winter.

“I wait...for him to come back so I can take my revenge.” “Jennifer, he’s no longer part of this world. It’s 2010, you need to go to the light, there is a better place waiting for you. You need to let go of this horrible memory and move on.” “I just wanted someone to know, to know I was here, that I mattered.” “Is there anything I can do to help you”? I asked. “Yes, can you find my necklace and keep it to remember me by. It’s under the floorboard on the right behind the sliding panel, not too far in, about three or four feet. It’s still where I hid it.” “I promise I’ll look for it, and God bless you.”

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The creek house built on the edge of the river barely survived a 20 foot flood

The following April when I drove up to re-open the place, there was a bad leak coming from one of the peaked Victorian dormer windows on the south side of the upstairs bedroom. Over the winter it had rotted out some of the wall and destroyed some of the floral wallpaper I’d hung when I first bought the place. I knew what to do to fix the mess, but had to wait months to get to it. When I finally opened the tiny wooden door to the eave on the south side of the bedroom, I looked down and saw a piece of gold chain peaking out from under the floor. A chill ran through me as I pulled up the dust-covered piece of jewelry. On a chain with tiny amber crystals, was a gold medallion with a topaz in the center. I thought of Jennifer and burst into tears.

swept away leaving no trace that it ever existed. My house was submerged under three feet of water, but it survived. The outhouse was at the bottom of the river. Four feet of mud, sand, trees and shattered barns that had hurtled down with the tidal wave now covered the Island. The National Guard was called in, and the Red Cross set up an emergency station at the local firehouse that was on high ground. That devastating flood changed the landscape of the area forever.

Too shaken to finish the carpentry job, I ran to my neighbor’s house just up the road and told him the entire story. Mark was a retired engineer and carpenter who could build anything. We ran back to my property and using a crowbar ripped open the planking on the inside of the old outhouse. It was about a seven-foot drop to the bottom, but too dark to really see anything, still it looked like something was wrapped in a tarp or cloth and tied up with a rope. When I went back in the house for the flashlight, the batteries gave out. It was getting late and we both had to leave and return to our normal lives. We’d both have five days to figure out a way to find out what was at the bottom of that building. We never got the chance.

Farewell to a Ghost We would never find out if anyone was buried on that property, and it was speculated that Dutch Schultz’s gold treasure was probably halfway to Albany by the time the waters receded. It’s been four years now, since the flood, and things are almost back to normal. Recently, before I closed up the house for the winter, I walked over to the little restored building and lit a candle. I thanked my spirit friend for coming out of hiding and sharing her story with me. I mourned her cruel and ruthless fate. I was filled with grief, even though I only came to know her by way of ethereal revelations on four pieces of paper. She became more real to me than some people I’ve known. Now whenever I see mysterious lights glowing in the garden, I think it might be her. When the wind bores down along the mountain causing the trees to moan, or I hear the surreal chanting of an owl at night, or the phantom drumming in the forest when no one is there, I think of her and hope she’s at peace.

The Great Flood On August 28, 2011, Hurricane Irene, a biblical twenty-foot wall of water, hit the Catskills, wiping out whole towns; killing several people; hundreds of farm animals and leaving a trail of devastation unlike anything ever seen in the area before. My neighbor’s 100-year-old house, to the north, was

Authors Note: This is a true story, written exactly has it happened. The big shots Jennifer referred to, were no doubt the rival mobsters, Meyer Lansky, Legs Diamond, Lucky Luciano and Schultz's right- hand man, Otto Berman, among others. They all gambled, murdered and supplied booze to the big Catskill hotels, and rented cottages on that remote Island.

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DOTTIE HERMAN A Real Deal

By Christopher A. Pape | Photos by Wayne Herrschaft

s I sat in the office of Douglas Elliman's President, Dottie Herman, waiting for her to arrive, I couldn’t help but think who is this woman? Looking around the well-appointed office, I noticed that the shelves were filled with an eclectic range of objects, each giving a clue into the past of this woman who, from nothing, created the fourth largest real estate company in the country. There were old photographs with celebrity pals, a figurine depicting a successful jump over a canyon and a plaque that read: “What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?” Many of these objects (and as I was about to learn, her personality) screamed determination, passion and the desire to take risks to make her vision a reality. Dottie’s desire to pursue real estate burned within her since her early twenties, when her boss at Merrill Lynch encouraged her to pursue a career in the field. What piqued her interest was the uniqueness in the behavior of property as opposed to other investments. Dottie states, "What separates real estate from the stock market is the fact that you can’t lose your investment overnight. There is never a bad market, just different markets that require a variety of strategies." These strategies for a dominant career grabbed Dottie’s imagination and inspired the vision for her company. During our interview, Dottie reinforced her belief that more people should take risks and not be afraid of failure. This is an age-old idea that I always agreed with, but what Dottie’s story would teach me was that opportunities are the only things that people can create out of nothing. It turns out that Dottie’s first chance to move towards her goal probably wouldn’t be

considered an opportunity by most. In 1989, Dottie purchased Prudential Long Island Realty despite the fact that she had no resources of her own. Prudential had been looking for a new owner after purchasing Merrill Lynch's real estate division. Without fear of consequence, Dottie asked if they would sell the franchise on Long Island to her. Her response to being criticized for not having the funds may be what inspired their decision: “So what?” Dottie’s career began when Prudential took the risk of selling her a company that was worth $8 million with no money down. From that deal, she headed 37 offices in addition to receiving about $2 million dollars in working capital. Before the sale, Dottie was in a position where after asking to purchase their company, the worst that could happen was for them to say “no.” Fortunately for her, they said "yes" and she was subsequently thrust into a position where she had to persevere in order to make the company’s investment in her worthwhile. Dottie then went to Merrill Lynch and told them she was buying Prudential Long Island Realty and convinced the employees not to leave. After showing her determination, the employees stayed and helped her grow the business. In her early days, Dottie struggled to get banks to finance her. But as her business grew, she was able to buy out Prudential and finance it with a bank. After expanding the company to the Hamptons, she and her business partner, Howard Lorber, were offered $30 million to sell. It was tempting, but Dottie’s desire was pulling her elsewhere. She wanted to purchase a company in Manhattan and continue expanding. Without looking back, she turned down the money and with Howard purchased Douglas Elliman in 2003. It has since become the fastest growing real estate firm in New York.

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“When you’re the President of a large real estate company, there is no daily routine. Every day something else comes up that I didn’t plan on.” Dottie says this with profound enthusiasm and excitement in her voice. Perhaps it is the unpredictability that makes life exciting for her - I imagine that even before Douglas Elliman’s rise to where it is today, Dottie spoke with just as much verve, excited for where she planned to take her company, and for where she was hoping it would go. 45

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25A Dottie occasionally finds herself on the phone with clients after midnight. She doesn’t have a time to stop working and there is no such thing as a day off. One aspect form Dottie's journey that resonated with me is that real estate becomes part of your life. When you are doing something you love for an organization you helped build, maybe there aren't really "days off." Perhaps when your passion is so intimately intertwined with what you do for living, it becomes ingrained in your nature and you can’t take a break from it, even if you try. Dottie, who has been through many different stages in her life, takes joy in getting the chance to sit down and speak with clients who are at different stages in their own lives as well. Real estate, for Dottie, is one of the only professions left where you can get to know your clients. She says with evident sincerity, "People care about the homes they live in, which makes the interactions between client and agent more meaningful." Dottie subscribes to the belief that the American dream is alive and that the desire to own a piece of this land is a wish that everyone from all walks of life shares and relates to. When asked about her personal philosophy, Dottie had this to say: “You have to be passionate and you can’t be afraid to fail, because failure is really success turned inside out.” I’m not sure if she learned this from career experiences or if she was able to make her career because of this philosophy. Either way, it perfectly sums up everything I learned about Dottie. Thinking back to all the objects she has collected in her office, I have a better understanding of the story they tell. It’s the story of a woman who started out with nothing but a vision and who had the courage to take chances. Through her grit and determination, Dottie Herman created the largest real estate company in the region, and by doing so, has helped others achieve their dreams as well.

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2016: THE YEAR OF THE MONKEY Powerful Feng Shui Fixes

By Feng Shui Master Pun-Yin

rotecting the emotional and financial health in 2016 requires clarity in the mind that an environment with a balanced Chi (energy) can provide. “Beauty is only skin deep, so, making the space beautiful is only as good as, if it can provide harmonious and prosperous energy for the people. Along this line, a site occupied for around ten years when people started experiencing difficulties, it is also because the positive energy of a space could be used up that requires a tune-up much like a car. An authentic Feng Shui experience that adjusts the Yin Yang and Five Elements (Chinese Astrology) energy in the space to fit the people with different energy vibration due to the variation in the Lunar Zodiac cycle is the powerful and comprehensive approach in dealing with energy. An acupuncturist alters the energy flow in a person while a real master in Feng Shui alters the experiences of the people in personal and professional levels. By balancing the Yin Yang and Five Elements (water, wood, fire, earth, metal) vibration in a space through the proper compass alignment of energy through the correct use of stones, water fountain, colors, textures and lighting; situations can change. Case in point, the 400% growth in a matter of few years for Euro-Pro, the makers to home consumer products of Ninja Blenders and Shark Home Appliances that consulted me on Feng Shui brought about the president of the company, Mr. Mark Baroccas to state that “I am a true believer that a positive energy environment is essential for people seeking success in their career and personal life because a calm environment stimulates creativity-it helps us think more clearly.”

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The phenomenal success for this company as well as the re-development projects of Times Square and the Columbus Circle that started 25 years ago created the Feng Shui popularity that went global because the international press was captivated by the unisphere in front of the Trump Int’l Hotel & Tower that was one of the signature projects of my dad Master Tin-Sun and myself. The Feng Shui suggestions in these landmark locations accompanied by the Feng Shui Blessing Ceremonies involved two sitting mayors at the time made headlines around the world. The five thousand years wisdom of Feng Shui encompassed the profound knowledge inside the ancient Chinese texts of I Ching, Tao The Ching and the Art of War. The treasure trove that interprets timing and energy could help people make better plans through the turbulence in the year of the monkey in 2016. The mantra for people who want to maintain wellness is about “preservation” and “conservation”. This is because the sign of a monkey that is of the Metal Element in the earthly branch is paired with the Fire Element in the celestial stem and in accordance to the Five Elements correlation, fire melts metal. This means the financial market that is the Metal Element industry would keep getting burned and dissipate in value. Wisdom of the lunar cycle prediction, it is about “Burning of the Monkey”, it is pivotal for people wanting wellness to do the following in preserving their own energy:

1. Build up the core energy by reducing excess social engagements, instead, invest time to strengthen the emotional bound with love ones. The synergy with the nuclear family can support the healing of the mind, body and spirit that is the base to having clarity. 2. Avoid or reduce activities containing a large crowd in order to avoid overcharging of emotions and cross contamination that compromises the immune system. Doing things in nature w/ love ones to charge up on the positive that keeps your core energy stable and this would counteract the jumpy monkey emotions spreading disturbances into your life. 3. Reducing traveling and explore the beauty of nature you could drive to leisurely so you would be less affected by the disturbances that is widespread. For the business travelers, plan the itinerary so that a travel delay won’t prevent you from attending the important meetings. 4. Refresh and strengthen the energy in your home and office through the authentic Feng Shui that adapts the Five Elements themes through certain types of plants, stones, water features and textures. By placing these objects in the correct meridian positions, it could create the Zen quality in your home that can become your sanctuary and no need to exhaust yourself energetically or financially to get to. Organizing the love ones to do this project together could start connecting the emotional bound that has been robbed by technical devices. When the energy of the income earner is balanced through good Feng Shui, the individual could become a savvy investor who would be capable of reworking the portfolio to reduce the financial risk. The clarity in the mind could be effective in explaining to the love ones about the need of a reduce expense budget so everyone could come to an agreement with sooner. This would reduce the

stress level of the family/organizations from the overextending habit many entrapped themselves in. The sooner people become more fiscal responsible, the more the reserve that would enable them be at peace even when the cycle of the monkey through 2/4/17 is harmful for money matters. Positioning the asset to a long term and lower risk strategy could mean gathering the money to prepare to buy the real estate deal from people short of cash and you flip later to multiply your net worth. In particular, people born in the year of the Boar (1947, 1959,1971,1983) and Tiger (1950, 1962, 1974, 1986) need to be cautious about their career and financial dealings by playing it safe. The cautionary advises above were because by nature, even though a monkey is witty and energetic, but, “Burning of the Monkey” in this timing would dash many dreams unless the informed group already has preventive measures in place. By adhering to their own wealth cycle in this Lunar year and having good Feng Shui in the home and workplace could protect people. Pivotal in riding through the unsettling cycle of the monkey requires a strong emotional support system that can prevent your serenity from being drained by the fluctuating stock market, chaotic energy in politic, turmoil created by the weather and human destructions. Reference to the nature of a monkey that can’t stay put and tend to make swift second changes altering direction; it also has the ability be destructive and cunning like snatching and stealing objects when trained. Since monkey bounces around, the disturbances of the fire through diseases and conflicts would multiply. Watch out for the conspiracies behind all the noises and turbulences that can detour you from clarity. punyin.com 49

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Brookville | $9,000,000 | This picturesque brick mansion sits on 8 acres of impeccably manicured land in the coveted gold coast village of Brookville. The majestic 8 bedroom, 7 bath main house and 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath guesthouse were built in the 1900’s and meticulously restored by noted designer Thom Filicia. Completing the gated estate is an oversized pool with pavilion and tennis court. Web# 2811513. Aileen Murstein C: 516.317.6007; Luis D. Ortiz C: 646.673.24423

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Lloyd Neck | $2,495,000 | Hamptons water view alternative is an incredible retreat with modern amenities, new gourmet kitchen! Entertaining abounds with private tap, billiards, stone patio and pool and more. Web# 2771089. Maureen Polyé O: 516.582.5646

Port Washington | $1,699,999 | Welcome to this 4,000 sf paradise. This exquisite home features state-of-the-art gourmet kitchen, meticulous open floor plan, superior construction, fabulous layout. Web# *1243208. Jason Orsini C: 516.455.8173; Robin Azougi C: 516.343.0289

Sands Point | $2,400,000 | Majestic English Tudor, spectacular period detail perfectly preserved and reinvented for today’s lifestyle. Three fireplaces, 5 bedrooms, 5 baths, pool and cottage. A home focused on family. Web# 2769026. Cynthia Magazine C: 516.456.9913

Calverton | $1,159,000 | Contemporary Home with 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, stone fireplace, gourmet kitchen and roof-top deck with outstanding views of Long Island Sound and stairs to your own private beach. Web# 280846. Adrienne Governali O: 631.363.5400, C: 631.291.6336

Northport | $2,399,000 | Hampton style 5 bedroom, 4.55 bath Colonial totally redesigned and renovated. Magnificent 3.1 acres fronts Duck Harbor with in-ground pool, lighted tennis court and dock. Web# 2822047. Kelley J. Taylor C: 631.553.6923; Lynda Olita C:631.662.2478

Bethpage | $548,000 | Sprawling Ranch, School District No. 21. 4 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, eat-in kitchen, dining room, living room, sunken family room with fireplace. Full finished basement, in-ground sprinklers and in-ground pool with hot tub. Web# *1237398. Alex Delmonaco O: 516.317.8090

WITH AGENTS AND OFFICES ACROSS THE COUNTRY AND AROUND THE WORLD, WE KNOW HOW TO FIND YOUR BUYERS... WHEREVER THEY ARE. ASKELLIMAN.COM 110 WALT WHITMAN ROAD, HUNTINGTON STATION, NY, 11746. 631.549.7401 | © 2016 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS ARE DEEMED RELIABLE, BUT SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. PHOTOS SHOWN MAY HAVE BEEN MANIPULATED. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.

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Oyster Bay Cove | $14,500,000 | Copper Beach is a custom 12,200 sf modern home with 425 feet of waterfront with views from every room. Panoramic 5 acres includes pool, cabana, tennis, private dock, boathouse and historic guest cottage. Web# 2789306. Mollie Grossman C: 516.521.5335; Aileen Murstein C: 516.317.6007

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Bridgehampton | $8,000,000 | Whale House at Bridgehampton south of the highway. Beautiful 2.98 acre setting with 12 room main house, guest cottage and 2 car garage. Minutes from village and beach. Web# H43588 Barbara Brundige O: 516.624.9000, C: 516.242.7878

Lloyd Neck | $2,895,000-$3,194,900 | On 3 acres with 300 feet of waterfront on Long Island Sound and private beach. Enjoy sunrises and sunsets. Custom 5 bedroom home with water views from every room. Indoor in-ground pool. Web# 2773459. Mary Luca C: 631.741.4389

Centre Island | $7,900,000 | Unique 11,000 sf Post Modern home with water views of both the Long Island Sound and Oyster Bay from every room. Secluded cul de sac, situated at north end of Center Island. Web# 2802553. The Kelly-Mann Team O: 516.633.1613, 516.633.4075

Northport | $2,900,000| Recently renovated main house and detached cottage. Over 300 feet of sandy beach. Manicured 3.14 acres with limitless possibilities. Newly constructed 130 foot dock. Web# 2762597. Helene Atkins C: 631.988.2908

Manhasset | $3,998,000 | Newly constructed Hamptonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-style home offers 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths on private half acre cul de sac in Plandome Manor. Every amenity including elevator to 3 floors of luxury. Web# 2813354. Traci Conway Clinton O: 516.857.0987

Muttontown | $2,795,000 | Enjoy this magnificent compound with exquisite main house restoration, fabulous professional landscaping, 3 bedroom cottage, 3 car garage and new pool villa suitable for guest house. Web# 2774756. Barbara Brundige O: 516.624.9000, C: 516.242.7878

KNOWN GLOBALLY. LOVED LOCALLY.

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STELLAR INTERIORS

By Ryan Wilk

nterior design is a form of art. It takes a certain kind of person to be able to look at a room and instantly imagine all the possibilities there are for arranging furniture. Lydiane Interdonato has the eye for this, and feels she has an innate ability to find ways to put things together. She relishes in this passion which has become the basis for her interior design company, Stellar Interiors. Lydiane Interdonato specializes in modern contemporary design, although she also does some transitional designs as well. She mostly designs homes, but occasionally does some interior staging and commercial interiors. When staging, Lydiane designs a space that is on the market, and in doing so, helps it get sold. Her favorite kinds of jobs are reconstruction jobs, because her imagination is not limited by what’s already in place. Since a reconstruction job is a brand new start, Lydiane can fabricate something that has never been done before. She can work with almost any room in the house including living rooms, bathrooms and kitchens. Despite her success in these specific niches, Lydiane is interested in branching outside her comfort zone and doing some restaurants, stores or anything commercial that needs to be designed. Lydiane’s personal philosophy when it comes to interior designing is to 52 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

make the space reflect the personality of the client. However, when she has a client who takes a back seat and lets her do her thing, Lydiane goes wild with her personal style featuring elegance and the latest trends. Although it’s more exciting to work with larger budgets, Lydiane actively tries to debunk the misconception that people with small budgets can’t make their homes fabulous. There is plenty of inexpensive furniture around and as long as she has that magic eye for design, Lydiane can take any room and make it luxurious. Also found on the Stellar Interiors website is a talk show called Stellar Style. Here, Lydiane speaks with professionals from the design industry. It’s a great show to check out for anyone interested in design, or working with Lydiane. The show has also featured a few artists who share Lydiane’s creativity and eye for knowing when something looks good. When making the decision to start this business, Lydiane wanted to do something that she loved which could also support her family. The thing that never fails to excite her is visualizing something, and then seeing it come to life. It is truly a job for artists. She believes that the most important thing for any business owner to know is to bring a passion to their businesses. Lydiane has clearly brought her passion into what she does and will hopefully keep growing and expanding until the whole world is beautiful. stellarinteriorsbylydiane.com

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101 BEDFORD A Home for Sophisticated Hipsters

By Linda Alexander

uxurious and hip, 101 Bedford Avenue has been a thriving home to Williamsburg’s toniest denizens since the day its doors opened in 2014. Situated on a city block between North 11th and North 12th Streets, with a main entrance directly across from McCarren Park, its 351 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments are spread out between four eight-story buildings designed in a U-shape. The result is a stately complex with a large interior courtyard landscaped as a pocket park, and a great homage to the grand one across the street. Each apartment has been designed to have views, whether they’re of the East River, Manhattan, McCarren Park, Brooklyn streetscapes or the garden-like interior courtyard; and many additionally feature outdoor space. But what makes 101 BEDFORD truly different is its unparalleled amenities package. Beyond the 2,500-square-foot fitness center with Yoga-barre, Pilates and private training rooms, there is an Olympic-size indoor pool with hot tub and adjacent men’s and women’s saunas. And although pools, fitness centers and saunas seem to be expected in today’s luxury buildings, few can complete with this comprehensive package, which rivals many of the most exclusive vacation getaways and spas. To begin with, there’s a wine vault with temperature controlled storage for individual residents’ collections. The game room, with its colorful décor, offers everything from X-box stations to billiards, and has a built-in wet bar for entertaining. The 29-seat screening room features monthly showings of new films. It’s also available to residents who reserve it for private screenings.

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Not many apartment buildings feature sound-proof recording and photography studios with adjacent dressing rooms. But this one clearly caters to a creative population and both facilities are frequently booked. Equally popular is the PGA Golf Simulator room, where people practice their swings on facsimiles of St. Andrews, Pebble Beach and others tournament sites. Catering to the many people in the building working remotely or freelance, 101 Bedford has a real business center with conference room and adjacent library with couches and a fireplace overlooking McCarren Park. For busy families, there’s a state-of-the-art children’s playroom stocked with oversized stuffed animals and educational games. The pet-friendly building even has a dedicated canine cleaning station with shampoos, sinks and dryers. Perhaps the most coveted warm weather amenity is the 17,000-square-foot roof deck, fully furnished with a mini beach, plenty of cabana seating and multiple gas barbeque grills. Cutting edge convenience also extends to an efficient lifestyle that includes on-site parking, 24/7doorman/concierge service and two ATM machines in the lobby, which are particularly handy when buying candy, soda, detergent and even batteries from one of two vending machines in the game room. Add in the beautiful interiors by world-class designer Hadas Metzler and this community within the Williamsburg community is a truly special place to live! 101bedford.com

Robert Beer | RB Shore Development LLC Rated By 25A Magazine As One Of Long Island’s Top Builders RB Shore Development LLC | www.builtbybeer.com | (516) 625-0025 | info@builtbybeer.com

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Robert Beer & Family have been building quality, luxury homes for over 60 years making them a great choice for helping your family to build a new home. RB Shore Development specializes in New Construction, Land Development, Project Management, Renovations, Landscaping, Sports Courts, Pools, Cabanas, and much more. If you’re thinking of building or renovating a home and want to learn more, consider what RB Shore Development can do for you today, from concept to completion.

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LAFFEY FINE HOMES INTERNATIONAL The Premier Broker of Irreplaceable Properties

By Ryan Wilk

n 1974, Thomas Laffey established a family organization focusing on selling real estate on Long Island's North Shore. Over the years, it has evolved to become a premier international organization with a worldwide presence. Today, Emmett Laffey leads the newest era of the organization, Laffey Fine Homes International, focusing on the utilizing the international market to make it as successful as possible. Emmett Laffey is the quintessential luxury broker on the North Shore of Long Island. His list of ultra-luxury sales and current projects are the highest profile in the market. His specialty is larger estates, waterfront properties, land and subdivisions. Their dominance over the market in the North Shore was largely due to the lack of many organizations in that niche to compete with. The Laffey organization has some of the highest priced deals in Nassau County and is able to use these offers to sell over 1,000 houses per year. These are fantastic numbers since the average sale is a million dollars, giving the organization large profits at the end of each year. Part of this success comes from Laffey's sales strategy. Their aim is to find the perfect home for their client thus encouraging them to come back and make additional deals. Since many of the customers respect and appreciate the services that Laffey has rendered, it's not unusual for one party to make several transactions with the organization, year after year. Emmett represents some of the highest-profile estates on the market today. Some of these estates include La Presqu'ile, which is listed for $22 million, can't be subdivided, has a deep-water dock and sits perched perfectly westward. This property is for the ultimate buyer to use to build a one-of-a-kind retreat. Lands End at Sands Point is a spectacular 20-acre waterfront subdivision of five brand-new homes and will have a total sellout in excess of $70 million. Another estate that Emmett represents is Villa Riele in Lloyd Neck, an incredible 32-acre waterfront estate with 1,600 feet of shoreline which is asking $16 million. The home, designed by Edward Durrell Stone, sits atop this property. In addition to these, Laffey's clients include a who's who of Long Island's elite, professional athletes and high-profile CEOs.

Currently, Laffey Fine Homes International is in the process of selling the highest-priced one-acre piece of property in the history of Nassau County for around $9 million. When Emmett met the owners he noticed that this particular property was the closest piece of land that exists on the North Shore of Long Island to Manhattan. Emmett told his client that this fact would push this to a new record breaker. Once it closes, the record will be set. The international side of this business adds credibility to the organization and makes them stand out. Laffey Fine Homes International is also part of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, which is the world's premier network of independent luxury brokers. This invitation-only network consists of 500 firms in 52 countries around the world. Only a select number of these firms are members of Luxury Portfolio International, an elite group of ultra-luxury real estate firms worldwide among which Laffey Fine Homes International is one of the highestprofile members. The benefit of being a part of such an extensive network is that the company gets referrals from their partners when they have a client who is moving to New York. "The referrals we receive throughout this group are incredible. From firms in China to Europe to LA and Miami we refer back-and-forth the highest-end buyers and sellers in the market." These referrals keep clients in the network and spawn more business for all the organizations. After the success of 2015, Laffey Fine Homes International is looking to the future to make 2016 even better. When we spoke with him, Emmett Laffey was radiating with confidence about how he expects to increase both his sales and prices. He is continuing to develop their marketing through their tristate, domestic and global networks. In April, the organization will continue to look to the future by going to the Luxury Property showcase in Beijing. This is the event of the year, because Laffey Fine Homes International will be able to use their network in China to showcase their finest properties. This is a very important event, because the Chinese consumer base is constantly growing, and their demand for New York property has never been higher.

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25A The Spectacular Lands End at Sands Point

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The Laffey organization's highest-priced luxury sales to date include "Inisfada," the original Brady estate on Searingtown Road in Manhasset which sold for $36.5 million. There is also Duck Island, a private 20-acre island off of Eaton's Neck which sold for $7 million. In addtion, Laffey has also held the highest-price sales in a number of other areas as well. The highest-price sale in Muttontown last year was $20 million for the Easton estate. It was one of the last private 100-acre estates on the North Shore. Last year in Kings Point, a stone waterfront mansion went for $19.88 million. Finally in Manhasset in 2015 a classic brick Colonial home on Manhasset bay sold for $6 million, another record holder for the year. Emmett Laffey's vision of taking his Long Island family business and connecting it to a worldwide network of clients and real estate professionals continues to propel the firm forward. Never before has the word international been so important to marketing and selling Long Island real estate. Emmett enjoys pushing it to a whole new level. laffeyintl.com

Emmett Laffey, CEO of Laffey Fine Homes International

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A Surfeit of Love Photos by Michael Paniccia Styling by Christina Pacelli Produced by Christopher A. Pape Model Janna Ahmetjanova/Images Management Thank you to 101 Bedford in Williamsburg for use of their space

MOSCHINO: Black & White Cropped Blazer, $995, Bloomingdales MOSCHINO: Black & White Mini Skirt, $575, Bloomingdales FRANCESCA LIBERATORE: White Pima Knit Minidress, $325, francescaliberatore.it AURORA BAILEY: Earrings, $450, aurorabailey.com

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"Love of beauty is taste. The creation of beauty is art ." Ralph Waldo Emerson

KALMANOVICH: Blouse, $545, shopcurve.net HENRIK VIBSKOV: Skirt, $309, ANTHOM, NYC, 877.747.1776 3.1 PHILLIP LIM: Tailored Oversized Car Coat, $1,195, 31philliplim.com INES FIGAREDO: Handbag, $2,165, inesfigaredo.com INVERNI: Marianne Hat, $459, neimanmarcus.com (Right arm) GLORY AND HONOR: Double Rail Cuff $395 and New Classic Chain Link $695, gloryandhonor.com (Right hand) MARSHELLYS: Silver and Gold Plated Arc Rings, $60 and $75, marshellys.com (Left arm) LELE SADOUGHI: Exposed Hinged Pearl Slider, $270, lelesadoughi.com (Left hand) VICTORIA DENY JEWELRY: Pebbles Gold Ring, $150, victoriadenyjewelry.com; ONIRIKKA: Trinity Ting 6, $1,800, onirikka.com

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25A "The best part of beauty is that which no picture can express ." Francis Bacon Sr.

FRANCESCA LIBERATORE: White Popeline Cotton Shirt, $325, francesaliberatore.it ALLINA LIU: Camilla Skirt, $320, insupportof.us BURBERRY LONDON: Honey Trench Coat, $1,695, Bloomingdales STUART WEITZMAN: Fourbucks Heels, $485, stuartweitzman.com MARSHELLYS: Katana Studs, $52, marshellys.com MARK CROSS: Grace Small Box Handbag, $2,195, saks.com GLORY AND HONOR: New Classic Chain Link Necklace, $1,150, gloryandhonor.com GLORY AND HONOR: New Classic Chain Link Bracelet, $695, gloryandhonor.com (Left hand) MIMI PROBER: Metamorphosed Art Climbing Vine Sculpted Hand Ring, $1,100, mimiprober.com (Right hand) VICTORIA DENY JEWELRY: Pebbles Black Rhodium Ring, $150, victoriadenyjewelry.com

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BLU ON PARK A Throwback to an Earlier Era

By Ryan Wilk

t the end of 2015, a new restaurant opened that brings its customers back in time to the prohibition era. The atmosphere of Blu on Park emphasizes the glamor of that era as it is located inside a renovated residential brownstone from the 1920’s. A trip to this restaurant, however, is more than just a journey back in time. Blu on Park takes all the best parts of this century and combines them with the building’s history to create a sleek style and contemporary menu.

right amount of tenderness by Chef Russell Rosenberg. Chef Rosenberg’s experience is enough to draw people to this restaurant. After working at the boathouse in central park for 12 years, he is beginning an exciting new milestone in his career. For anyone whose forte isn’t cooked meat, Blu on Park also offers an extensive raw bar with a nice caviar selection. To add to the elegant experience, they have high-end wines and champagnes imported from around the world. Thankfully, bootleggers are no longer needed to get these nice beverages into the country.

Blu on Park strives to preserve the old building’s history by not altering the look too much. This gives it the feeling of a sophisticated steakhouse with several enhancements, like blue and gold detailing, to make it their own. The whole look of the place is woven with a modern yet traditional elegance. It occupies three floors of the building and includes a bar, a lounge, an opulent mezzanine dining area as well as private and large-scale dining rooms on the third floor. Essentially, this place has everything needed for every type of event imaginable. Even the details put into the bar’s black quarts top gives it a clean and chic look of old meets new.

When Blu on Park was first opened, it was consistently securing a full house on most nights for several weeks. Is this a testament to how much people love new places, or places with an old feel? Maybe it’s a testament to the great service the staff was trained to provide? Or perhaps the food is just that good? Whatever the reason, Blu on Park’s popularity speaks for itself. It is the place to go to get a feel for the history and elegance of the prohibition era with all the conveniences of living in this day and age.

As refreshing it is to hear about the attention to detail on the look of the restaurant, the most important thing is that the same care is brought to the food. Blu on Park’s large selection of steak and seafood doesn’t disappoint. The meat here is perfectly aged for about a month before being cooked to the

116 E 60th St NY, NY 10022 212.256.1929 bluontheavenue.com

66 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

P LANNING ON HAVING AN AFFAIR?

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OFF-PREMISE CATERING & EVENT DESIGN for your HOME, BUSINESS or VENUE Southampton 631 324 9825 · Glen Cove 516 676 8500 · Manhattan 212 991 0078 ElegantAffairsCaterers.com

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ROSA MEXICANO Brings a Taste of Mexico to Tribeca

By Sarah Pincus

or over 30 years now, Rosa Mexicano has been indulging our senses with their innovative Mexican cuisine, festive atmosphere, elaborately designed locations and exceptional dining experiences. Expect to be astonished upon entering Rosa Mexicano in Tribeca, first by handcrafted furnishings and the stunning interior, and then by the satisfaction in the night as it unfolds. From your tableside you can watch as Guacamole en Molcajete, a freshly made guacamole with avocado, jalapeno, tomato, onion and cilantro, from the “Para La Mesa” section of the menu is prepared in a traditional lava-rock mortar. Para La Mesa, translating to “for the table” includes other authentic Mexican dishes such as Queso Fundido, which is melted Chihuahua cheese over poblano rajas, and Nachos de Tres Quesos, crispy tortillas topped with black beans, queso fresco, white cheddar, menonita cheese, guacamole, pico de gallo, chipotle and Serrano chiles.

tradition roots, making each of them exceptional. A solution to this decision dilemma is to go with several people and order something from each section of the menu and share. That way you can try a taco dish such as the Costillas de Res, which includes three tacos with all the regional fillings, handmade corn tortillas, Dos XX beer glazed beef short rib with tomatillohabanero salsa, watercress, radish and lime. You can also try an especiales de la casa such as the chile poblano relleno, a roasted pablano chile filled with goat cheese, grilled chayote, sautéed mushrooms and rice over salsa ranchera, salsa verde, asparagus and queso fresco. There are so many more options, all of which guarantee satisfaction.

Rosa Mexicano’s “antojitos” or “snacks” includes all of the classic Mexican appetizers such as mouth-watering Empanadas de Polla con Chorizo and Ceviche de Camarones – a Mexican favorite.

Located just below Rosa Mexicano in Tribeca, is Masa y Agave, a bar and lounge featuring over 400 agave spirits. Masa y Agave is the perfect place to start a night of fun, or continue the already exceptional night Rosa Mexicano provides. The bar offers authentic Mexican snacks as well as craft cocktails and tasting flights. Everything from the food, to drinks to entertainment to environment is styled to supply a night of excellence. Both Rosa Mexicano and Masa Y Agave will provide a night to remember, regardless of the occasion.

As the menu continues, and the options expand, the decisions get more difficult. How could one choose between tacos, enchiladas, al carbon and especiales de la casa? All items on the menu are made to incorporate regional accents and inspired innovation while remaining faithful to their

41 Murray Street NY, NY 10007 212.849.2885 rosamexicano.com/tribeca

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388

Restaurant & Catering

Where every night is a celebration 388 Willis Avenue | Roslyn NY | 11577 | (516) 621-3888 | www.388restaurant.com

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MR. PURPLE Both Views and Food Delight

By Ryan Wilk

here is one major leader in the hospitality industry that has a strong commitment to providing people with an innovative nightlife experience. Managed by Scott Gerber, Gerber Group is an organization that has owned a large portfolio of restaurants and bars for the past 25 years. Most recently, Gerber Group has opened its newest restaurant and bar called, Mr. Purple. Mr. Purple is a rooftop bar that uses downtown New York as a backdrop to put people directly in the middle of the city’s beauty. What makes Gerber Group unique is their use of innovative bars and dining concepts in an attempt to re-define the hospitality industry. Some of the things they make a point to feature are exceptional culinary talents and renowned beverage programs. In 1991, Gerber Group opened its first property, called The Whiskey at the Paramount Hotel. Since then, Gerber Group has established over seventeen different properties both in the United States and internationally. Since its inception, Gerber Group has been constantly expanding its properties and has most recently opened Mr. Purple on the rooftop of Hotel Indigo. The architecture of Mr. Purple was brilliantly put together by the internationally acclaimed design firm, Crème Design. Its indoor space is complimented by two terraces to create an artistic balance of indoor and outdoor areas. While one of the terraces is more suited for a larger gathering, the smaller one is designed for more intimate occasions. 70 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Despite the amount of thought put into the design of the restaurant, even more was put into the menu. Mr. Purple’s food features locally sourced ingredients to give customers real taste of New York City. The bar menu features with fresh market ingredients used to make both classic and modern cocktails, which have become a staple at all of Gerber Group’s properties. They feature universal wine offerings, regionally brewed craft beers and an expansive collection of small-batch spirits. For anyone not in the mood for alcohol, they also serve handcrafted coffee and fresh cold-pressed juices from a couple of local purveyors. Over the years, Gerber Group has proven themselves to be a company with a reputation to build classically timeless bars with a sophisticated allure. Their use of innovative dining concepts and exceptional culinary talents makes Gerber Group’s restaurants destination-worthy. In light of their successful past, Scott Gerber continues to look to the future by creating more unique bars and restaurants across the globe.

180 Orchard Street, 15th Floor NY, NY 10002 212.237.1790 mrpurplenyc.com

our Cuts Steakhouse is the first boutique steakhouse venture for Executive Chef Christopher Miller. Known as New York’s “steak whisperer,” Chef Miller’s menu boasts steakhouse classics in addition to an array of delicious seafood fishes. Prior to opening Four Cuts in the Sutton Place neighborhood on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, Miller was the Executive Chef of Bobby Van’s for over 13 years and has had additional experience in the kitchen of Ben Benson Steakhouse, Mortimer’s, and Bryant Park Grill. Four Cuts’ space in the Sutton Place neighborhood, was completely re-designed by C3D Architecture, which set out to create a unique look for the Four Cuts space by combining the sleek look of modern design with rustic elements associated with traditional steakhouses to create an elegant, welcoming dining room. In addition, Marlaina Deppe of Novo Arts is providing a special wall garden, which has been installed on the columns in the main dining room. Franco Lucic of LMF Group designed the walnut wood paneling featured on the restaurant’s walls and on its columns, which accentuate the wall gardens. Along with the wall gardens and wood paneling, there will be custom artworks for guests to admire on the walls of the restaurant.

Located at 1076 1st Avenue (@ 59th Street) New York, NY 10022

(212) A 204-0008 P P E T |I fourcutsny.com Z E R S

S E A F O O D P L AT T E R J U M B O S H R I M P C O C K TA I L

(MARKET PRICE) 1 9 . 95

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THE POMEROY Astoria's Best New Restaurant

By Sarah Pincus

he Pomeroy is an enticing new dining addition to Ditmars Blvd in Astoria, Queens – a haven for foodies in New York. The setting is casual yet refined and the menu is seasonal new American comfort food, sure to excite the taste buds and warm the heart.

The Pomeroy (named after Pomeroy Road, which was renamed to 37th Street) is owned by restaurant owner, Mike McGuire, and renowned chef Bo O’Connor. O’Connor, originally known for her relationship and work as a personal chef for popstar Lady Gaga, is making a big name for herself in the food industry with the delectable menu she’s created for The Pomeroy. Starting off with snacks, the restaurant offers an array of flavors from Mixed Olives to Fried Pickles to Arancini Rice Balls, all thoughtfully made to introduce the following menu options, including small plates, salads, large plates, chicken fried and veggies + potatoes. Under small plates you'll find dishes such as an Avocado plate that includes grilled bread, avocado, chili, lemon, grapefruit and pea shoots, Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings served with a yogurt herb dip, and Mac + Cheese, made with gruyere, cheddar, fontina, val d’aosta, parmigiano and garlic breadcrumbs. These small plates, along with other delectable “Small Plate” options listed on the menu, are perfect for sharing and sampling with a date. On the salad section of the menu there is the traditional Cobb salad, made with mushroom, red onion, egg, avocado, tomato, cucumber, bacon and gorgonzola, or you can change it up with one of O’Connor’s original creations like the Kale + Brussel Sprout salad made with toasted almonds, ricotta 72 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

salata, apple and red onion or the Roasted Carrot + Avocado salad made with citrus labne, pea shoots and croutons. Moving on to the Large Plate section is where the menu really gets exciting. Mouth-watering American favorites are given O’Connor’s special touch, making a common dish, extraordinary. Take The Pomeroy Burger for example, this American classic is served on a potato roll with lettuce, tomato, onion and French fries, and is elevated to the next level with The Pomeroy’s special sauce. O’Connor does it again with her Red Wine + Chipotle Braised Short Ribs served with cauliflower and pickled shallots. Fried Chicken is a staple in American comfort food, which brings us to the Chicken Fried section of the menu, offering two options, 1/2 Bird and Whole Bird. The ½ Bird includes a wing, thigh, leg, breast and is served with honey carrot + jalapeno dipping sauce. The whole Bird is the same thing, only double. Either option is sure to guaranteed the deepest of comfort food cravings. All of this and more is what you’ll find when dining at The Pomeroy of Astoria. Wear anything you’d like, the only thing that’s required is a good appetite, which you’ll need when faced with this surplus of absolutely delightful American comfort food options. 36-12 Ditmars Blvd NY, NY 11105 718.721.1579 thepomeroynyc.com

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25A RESTAURANT ROUNDUP

By Hillary Latos

here’s nothing quite as spectacular as New York during the holidays especially from a culinary point of view. From an artisanal farm to table comfort fare in Brooklyn to one of classic Manhattan’s brunch institutions, or an intimate dining experience in Tribeca to haute regional Chinese cuisine there are always plenty of options to indulge in a favorite New York pastime which is exploring their vibrant culinary scene.

Since the staggering $1.95 billion sale of New York’s iconic Waldorf Hotel to Beijing based Alban Insurance, its only befitting that their flagship restaurant is a chic and fashionable haute Chinese boite. What was once the somewhat tired Oscars brasserie on the corner of 50th and Lexington has been transformed into a glamorous lair aptly named Le Chine decorated with serene Cherry blossom painted wallpaper against a contemporary palette of black, bronze, deep blue and gold. This ambitious project brought in star chefs from Beijing and Shanghai to create contemporary yet authentic Chinese dishes that represent different regions of China executed with a French twist. Their raw bar is inspired by the seafood traditions of the Zhejiang cuisine with local ingredients like long island fluke cured with Chunkiang vinegar, rare lobster tail with black bean and citrus soy and big eye tuna tartare served with caviar and soy vinegar. Venturing into the exotic realm are dishes such as beef toungue slices with lemongrass and basil, crispy Mangalitsa pork collar, and the whole Long Island duck served Peking style or with cucumber, cantaloupe or minced with lettuce cups. As the Waldorf was the most expensive hotel sale in the world, naturally no expense has been spared in creating Le Chine. Le Chine, 839 West 181st Street, NYC, 212.740.3111 lechinenyc.com

Famous for their Hamptons outpost, Red Stixs has brought its nouveau Chinese fare to Midtown East. Specializing in Northern Chinese cuisine, Executive Chef James “Skinny” Mei has designed a menu that centers on traditional iconic Beijing dishes that have been tailored to the Western palate and served in an exquisite presentation. Mei honed his experience at some of the best 5-star kitchens in Guangdong Province earning awards at numerous culinary competitions throughout China before becoming the head chef at Phillipe and later breaking out on his own with Red Stix. Mei’s specialty dishes include the revered seven pound Peking duck, crispy filet mignon, jade dumplings, shrimp lettuce wraps, and of course his famous chicken satay. Topping his delectable menu is the electrifying modern setting melding the best of East and West design. On Thursdays the restaurant turns into one of Midtown East’s hottest lounge scenes with a DJ spinning tunes ‘til the wee hours while guests enjoy their potent and tasty exotic elixirs. Red Stix, 216 E. 49th St. Btwn. 2nd & 3rd Ave, NYC, 646.964.5878 redstixs.com 74 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

As one of the original Chino-Latino concepts, Asia de Cuba has found its new home in the former Butter in the hotspot corridor of the East Village and Nolita. Representing the perfect union of the scintillating flavors of Latin and Asian ingredients, the innovative menu offers unique flavors that are sophisticated and above all delicious. Under the direction of Cuban chef Louis Pous, who brings his heritage and talent to create delectable ceviches, vibrant small plates and exquisite takes on some traditional Cuban dishes. Signature dishes include the tuna ceviche with seared foie gras and Asian pear, snapper ceviche with Thai chili, gulf shrimp salad with watermelon and cucumber, tunapica tartare with coconut, currants and avocado, crispy octopus with lychee and garlic chips, and rocoto glazed black cod. The most famous dish is the “El Lechon” which is a mouthwatering and tender Cuban-style roasted pork served with hearty sides such as maduros, black beans and fried rice and delicious sauces like hot, sweet sesame and ginger mojo. Enjoy the scene as much as the food in a seductive atmosphere reminiscent of Havana’s glorified past. Asia de Cuba, 415 Lafayette Street, NYC, 212.726.7755 asiadecuba.com

For an authentic taste of Japanese Izakaya style robata and street food head to Bushwick’s latest Japanese addition, Moku Moku, translating to smoke in Japanese. While the focus has shifted away from sushi, the meat heavy menu is centered around yakitori and authentically delectable small dishes that are meant to be shared. For adventurous gourmands there’s plenty of exotic fare such as barbecued heart and tongue as well as a chicken gizzard confit with shiso Genovese. What truly sets Moku Moku apart from other Ikazaya restaurants in NYC is not only their delicious Japanese comfort fare but their locally sourced ingredients from the same purveyors as Momo including the Bushwick campus farm, Heritage Foods and Snowdance Farm in upstate New York. Moku Moku, 43 Bogart Street Brooklyn, NYC, 718.418.6666 mokumokubk.com

Take a break from the throngs of holiday shoppers as you indulge in the Waldorf Astoria’s famous Sunday brunch at Peacock Alley that has become an institution and is regarded as one of the best brunches in the U.S. Serving an extensive array of seasonal provisions including honey and vegetables grown from the hotel’s rooftop garden on the 20th floor, there are plenty of options for everyone. Choices include iconic dishes such as the Waldorf salad, eggs Benedict and red velvet cake. The generous raw bar features chilled lobster, prawns, oysters and clams on the half shell, as well as three different types of caviar, and different preparations of smoked salmon. Enjoy other brunch classics such as lobster bisque, carving stations with pork or beef tenderloin, and paella. Lighter options include an array of seasonal salads, roasted root vegetables and dim sum. Be sure to save room for the dizzying assortment of 100+ desserts including French petit fours, cookies, cheesecakes, pies and of course the decadent three-tiered chocolate fondue fountain. The only thing to bring is your appetite. Waldorf Astoria, 100 East 50th Street, NYC, 212.355.3100 waldorfastoria.com 75

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For an inside look at the creative mind of a chef, try the Chef’s Counter in Tribeca’s Distilled NY. Limited to only 4 people, this interactive private dining experience takes you center stage to all the action in the open-air kitchen as you sit at the counter and engage with Executive Chef Shane Lyons. For November, his inspiration was based on Welsh Halen Mon’s specialized artisinal salts. Infused with seven different flavors, Chef Lyons creates a new menu each time based on his personal inspiration with exclusive plates just for the counter guests. His specialty is in pairing flavor-rich ingredients in unique combinations where the salts pique the dish, such as a smoked duck with caramelized pineapple, seared sea scallops with a lobster reduction and broiled cod with a miso honey glaze. To enhance the experience the Beverage Director, Scott Kennedy, will pair innovative cocktails with the artisanal salts to truly create the optimal tasting combination. Distilled NY, 211 West Broadway, NYC, 212.601.9514 distilledny.com

American whiskey and steaks, need we say more? For a limited time, Michael Jordan Steakhouse has taken two of America’s most revered provisions and paired them together in a curated tasting menu. Chef Cenobio Canalizo paired his most popular signature items such as the rich lobster bisque, gorgonzola-laden butter leaf salad, lump crab cake, aged New York Strip and rib eye with black truffled creamed spinach with some of the most celebrated American whiskeys. While not the typical pairing of Brunellos or Bordeaux, the tasting notes of whiskey with its hints of toffee, pralines, vanilla and dried fruit provide the spicy and bold flavors that highlight the robust sensation of his classic steakhouse fare. The result is an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you satiated and perhaps a bit tipsy. Michael Jordan Steakhouse, 23 Vanderbilt Avenue, NYC, 212.655.2300 michaeljordansnyc.com

Step back in time to the turn of the century at the historic Church Street Tavern where Old World ambience meets the modern flair of Tribeca. With a nod to the past, the space features exposed brick, black subway tiles, plush leather banquettes, antique mirrors, and Edison pendant lamps that set an alluring ambiance for this new American classic. Executive chefs Max Renny and John Daley have teamed up to produce a modern international fusion menu with elevated comfort classics. Each night features a daily special of soul-satisfying dishes such as beef Wellington, bouillabaisse Quebecoise, porchetta and mussels and frites. Catering to a variety of sophisticated tastes, seafood lovers will enjoy the Asian-inspired crudo such as sea urchin arancini, Japanese scallops with green apple and ponzu, and red snapper ceviche with orange. Hearty mains include the famous Tavern burger made with a blend of dry aged meat, bacon onion relish and Vermont cheddar (touted as one of New York’s best), as well as the brick-oven chicken, and grilled red snapper with charred broccoli and roasted leeks. Whether dining at the bar or in the banquette, there is always a bustling scene at this Tribeca mainstay.

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Church Street Tavern, 313 Church Street, NYC, 212.804.7766 churchsttavern.com

The literal translation of Tarallucci e Vino is savory biscuits and wine, but as Italians love to associate proverbial meanings with food – it refers to resolving a dispute by pretending there was no dispute to begin with. Evoking the beloved Italian café culture of conviviality and lively banter over great food, each of the four NYC outposts reflect a modern yet rustic and cozy European atmosphere replete with exposed brick walls, tufted banquettes, fresh flowers and soft ambient lighting. Start with the housemade bufala ricotta with chili flakes, wine-braised octopus or miniature veal and beef meatballs with San Marzano tomatoes. Founder Luca di Pietro goes back to his Abruzzese roots to re-create some of his family’s favorite Tuscan dishes. Savor the tastes of Tuscany with his authentic Italian pastas such as the bufala ricotta stuffed ravioli with sofrito, gnocchi with butternut squash and gorgonzola cream, Abruzzese duck ragu fregnacce, tagliatelle with shaved burgundy black truffle, spiced crusted roasted tender lamb loin, or the fragrant whole roasted orate fish stuffed with Meyer lemon and shaved fennel. Since its opening in 2001, New Yorkers have embraced la dolce vita of Italy and now Tarallucci e Vino has locations including the Upper East Side, Cooper Hewitt, Union Square and East Village to spread the Italian love.

The latest Mediterranean restaurant on the Upper West Side is Bustan- which is the Arabic word for garden or orchard that symbolizes the blossoming culinary diversity of Mediterranean cuisine. As New York represents a multi cultural evolution of different cuisines and flavors, Bustan is a perfect embodiment of the spirit of the neighborhood. The scrumptious Mediterranean menu is inspired by North African specialties such as spiced lamb kebabs, mezzas of hummus, tzatziki, and baba ghanoush, as well as Southern European favorites like taboon charred octopus, ricotta gnocchi, braised short rib and taboon baked branzino. The electrifying dining room with a lapis tiled floor and warmly lit walls feels distinctively Mediterranean setting the perfect stage to explore their epicurean delights.

Tarallucci e vino taralluccievino.net

Bustan, 487 Amsterdam Ave. NYC, 212.595.5050 bustannyc.com

As Brooklyn is becoming the hot bed of new comfort food joints, Alice’s Arbor is the borough’s latest addition of farm-to-table fare reflecting the neighborhood’s penchant for reclaimed materials with a barn-like aesthetic. What started as a conversation 15 years ago between three friends in the Lower East Side has given birth to Alice’s Arbor. The chef, Mike Franzetti, paired up with Stephan Gerville and Dimitri Vlahakis who had previously opened other boutique LES and East Village restaurants and bars. Their aim was to create a comfortable hangout in the neighborhood serving authentic American seasonal fare with an inviting atmosphere created with reclaimed vintage barn, pallet wood and industrial materials. Enjoy cold-pressed detoxifying juices and healthy options such as a kale salad with pomegranate and pecorino, seared scallops with oyster mushrooms, octopus salad with feta and tomatoes or flounder in a coconut milk curry sauce. For comfort fare, the baby back ribs or mac ‘n’ cheese with cheddar and goat béchamel topped with truffle oil, pulled pork, lobster, jalapeno or all of the above will hit the spot. Alice’s Arbor, 549 Classon Avenue, NYC, 718.399.3003 alicesarbor.com

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CREATING THE PERFECT WINTER SALAD An Easy Way to Eat Fresh Vegetables This Season By Andrea Correale Andrea Correale, President of Elegant Affairs, is a celebrity caterer and the new national entertaining expert for the Lenox brand. Andrea has been featured in multiple magazines and on television networks such as People magazine, Woman's Day magazine, Oprah.com, FOX 5, WCBS, Bravo, VH1, Lifetime, and Martha Stewart Living. L'Oreal Paris Academy calls her their lifestyle expert with a series of entertaining videos used to inspire women nationwide. elegantaffairscaterers.com

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It’s that time of year – the holidays are over, you’ve made your New Year’s resolutions, and you’re feeling some of those overindulgences. You know you should eat healthier, but with the increasing winter cold, it’s very hard to motivate yourself to eat a salad. The good news is, there are so many ways to put a spin on your favorite salads to make them crave-worthy in the winter, as well. First of all, who says salads have to be cold? There are a variety things you can do with a salad to heat the temperature up a bit and make it even more comforting in the winter. Take warm roasted cauliflower and mix it with herbinfused barley, micro greens, olive oil, salt and pepper. Or, roast sweet potatoes and pair them with candied walnuts and baby arugula. Another option is roasted root vegetables, such as parsnips or potatoes, and serve them warm with a sherry vinaigrette and chopped kale. Another trick to motivating yourself to eat salads in the winter is to make them interesting. Since you’re probably trying to detox a bit after the holidays, use some of those powerhouse vegetables out there in delicious ways. Everyone

knows about kale, which is available in practically every supermarket, but consider trying something new, such as wilted escarole, collard greens or baby spinach. Throw in some shaved fennel or radicchio to give your salad an interesting dimension, or add frisée or chicory for texture.

chicken, Cornish hens, veal, sliced lamb, shrimp or pork medallions are some of the many different ways to round out your meal. For a vegetarian option that’s protein packed, add beans or legumes to make your meal feel more complete.

Another way to add some depth to your salad is with grains. Interesting grains such as black or pearl barley, red quinoa, farro, bulgur or couscous are delicious ways to add more substance to your salad. These grains are extremely healthy and will help keep you full.

Everybody loves croutons, but it’s even more fun to make your own. They’re incredibly easy, and you can flavor them in so many different ways. Pick your favorite bread – multigrain, ciabatta, baguette – and make sure it’s a little stale. Cut into pieces and sauté on the stove or bake them in the oven. Choose your favorite spices and flavors, such as rosemary, sage, parmesan, cheddar, thyme or red pepper flakes. These croutons are meant to last a while; store them glass jars with sealable lids, or fun cookie jars, and keep them on the counter so they’re ready to go when you make salad.

Pickling is a great option to elevate your salad while adding tons of flavor and interesting texture. It’s also a great way to extend the life of your produce. All you need is vinegar and some canning jars and you can pickle a myriad of different vegetables. Anything from beets, green beans, peppers, radishes, Cipollini onions, carrots, ginger or artichokes make great items for pickling. Keep them in your refrigerator ready to go whenever you’re making a salad. You always want your salad to have some good crunch, so nuts and seeds are great for that. Some healthy options include pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, cashews, almonds, walnuts and peanuts. These are all great additions that offer a good amount of protein, as well. For a little bit of a treat and extra crunch, you can pan fry some shallots, bacon, prosciutto or onions. If you’re looking for more protein, there are many different options to give your salad even more substance in the winter months. Oven-roasted

Last but not least, your dressing to top it all off. Winter brings cravings for more rustic flavors, and there are many dressing ingredients that can help satisfy that. Try a maple sesame vinaigrette, a pear walnut dressing, cranberry honey dressing or even a lemon poppy seed dressing. For winter salads, you want to think seasonal. Premix the dressings and keep them in bottles in your fridge for convenience. Salads don’t have to feel like a burden to eat in the winter. Some interesting flavors, textures, temperatures and accompaniments will help you start 2016 off right! 79

taste

25A

GREAT VALENTINE'S RECIPES From Chocolate Truffles to Gruyere Fondue with Spicy Shrimp By Andrea Correale "On Valentine's Day, profess your love with elegant decadence. Fine chocolate has long been considered the 'food of love.' The sublime chocolate truffle, known for it rarity and exquisiteness, is the epitome of erotic foods… Chocolate Truffles (yield 30) Ingredients: • 12 ounces dark chocolate broken into pieces • ¼ cup organic plain whole milk yogurt, brought to room temperature • 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier • cocoa powder

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Directions: Place broken chocolate and Grand Marnier in a double boiler, and melt slowly until blended and creamy. Add yogurt and whisk to blend. Mixture will thicken quickly. Chill mixture for 2 hours. This will form the ganache. Use a melon ball to scoop out small balls of the ganache. Using hands well dusted with cocoa powder, roll balls in cocoa powder to coat. Don’t handle truffles for too long as the Ganache will get soft quickly from the heat of your hands, and you want pretty, round truffles. Place truffles on a clean cocoa powder coated cookie sheet. Chill until firm.

By Danny McAvoy and Brian Delcastillo from Danny Mac's Kitchen on YouTube

alentine's Day is upon us and we all want to spend the night out with our significant other in a special and memorable way! So many times though, a pricey dinner out in a noisy overly booked restaurant has become the norm. Do we really have to follow the masses and succumb to a hefty bill and sometimes substandard dining experience? Here at Danny Mac's Kitchen we think not! How about spending your evening together at home with a fabulous bottle of wine and a sexy pot of melted cheese fondue to enjoy one another's company. Sharing and dipping tasty bite sized morsels of food in a silky rich dip by candle light with soothing background music screams intimacy and sets the the stage for a truly memorable evening together. This recipe is very easy to prepare and your loved one will appreciate it so much more as you prepared it for them from the heart! Danny Mac's Kitchen on YouTube is your guaranteed go to source for the best weekly video recipes. Happy Valentine's Day and please subscribe today. Gruyere Cheese Fondue With Spicy Shrimp and Croudite Ingredients: 1 1/2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese 1 1/2 Cups Shredded Gruyere Cheese Fresh Thyme Juice of 1/2 Fresh Lemon 3 Tbsp. Cornstarch 2 1/4 Cups Dry White Wine 3/4 # Peeled De-Veined Small Shrimp 1 Tbsp. Blackening Seasoning 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil Procedure: 1. In a medium sauce pot over medium heat add the wine and the lemon juice. Bring to a slow boil; approximately 2-3 minutes. 2. In a large bowl combine the cheese with the cornstarch. Coat all of the shredded cheese with the cornstarch as this will produce a creamy texture. 3. In small batches add the cheese to the wine stirring constantly. I find adding a 1/4th of the cheese at a time works best. If your product is to thick by all

means adjust with more wine. If it appears clumpy add more lemon juice as the additional acid helps to make a smoother mixture. 4. Add the fresh thyme and adjust the seasoning accordingly to your taste; Also I like to add crushed milled red pepper for an additional kick. 5. Keep the mixture on low as you prepare the shrimp. 6. Toss the shrimp with the blackening seasoning in a separate bowl. 7. Heat the oil in a saute pan for 1 minute till hot. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until firm. Remove the shrimp and reserve on a paper towel to remove any excess oil. 8. Add your cheese mixture to your favorite fondue pot Create a nice platter of broccoli, cauliflower, cornichones, and toasted bread coupled with some grapes and your spicy shrimp for an amazing fondue dipping experience!. Be creative and add what ever you would think be apropos to enhance your experience. *** If you have cheese mixture left over by all means refrigerate it and heat it up the following day with a small amount of milk and serve with your favorite pasta! 81

regimen

25A

A NEW YEAR, NEW YOU A Revised Edition

By Lindsay Brustein Rosen, MS, RD, CDN

o on New Year’s Day 2016 you made the same resolution that you make every other year: “I’m going to eat healthier this year.” The problem? You’re one month into the new year and you’ve already fallen off the wagon. Don’t stress! It's never too late to turn things around; you just need to know HOW to do it. Here is my easy-to-follow solution: Step 1: Reevaluate your goal Unreasonable and unrealistic resolutions can actually set us up for failure. Often we create goals that are too broad, making them too difficult to follow and not quite realistic for our lifestyles. For example, if you resolved to “eat only organic foods” in the New Year and you veered off track during a dinner out with friends, you might be tempted to throw in the towel entirely. The more realistic approach would be to revise your resolution to make it more manageable. Perhaps you’d like to aim to eat fewer processed items at home, or perhaps you’d like to focus on consuming organic meats and produce at least 80% of the time. If you create a goal that is too “black or white,” you are bound to fail at one time or another. Step 2: Focus on the positives While it is always good to improve ourselves and our lifestyles, it is also important to focus on the healthy habits we are already mastering. Rather than simply focusing on things that you need to do better, recognize things that you are good at and set goals that leverage those strengths. For example, if you already exercise for 30 minutes 2 times per week, try aiming for a third day of physical activity. If this is unrealistic, try tacking on an extra 5-10 minutes to your current sweat-sessions. OR, if you already pack a brownbagged lunch during the week, challenge yourself to increase your portion of veggies most, if not all, days. In other words, improve the good habits you already have by making them even healthier (without too much extra work)!

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Step 3: Set milestones Often, we set goals that are far too large (for example, “I want to lose 10 pounds by summer time.”) and therefore overwhelming. We struggle to stay motivated when the goal feels intangible. A better solution would be to work towards smaller short-term targets that you ultimately bring you closer to your end goal. The success you achieve along the way should help you stay motivated. Ultimately, you should aim for “incremental progress,” which means that you should always try to be a better version of yourself. I have explained it before, but small changes lead to big results! Step 4: Keep things in perspective Like I mentioned earlier, there is no need to be “black or white.” Keep in mind WHY you have the goal you have. Focus on the REAL, DEEPER meaning, not the superficial reason. Maybe you want to make dietary and lifestyle changes because you want to feel better day-to-day. Perhaps you’d like to have more energy to play with your children or go off of your blood pressure medication. It is important to keep these motivators in mind constantly. And if you do veer off track at some point, do not be too hard on yourself and lose perspective. One small step in the wrong direction is only problematic if you do not follow it with a step in the right direction. Step 5: Immediately put yourself back on track Now, if you do happen to fall off track along the way, do not let it “unravel.” Do not let a “bad meal” turn into a “bad day,” and then progress into a “bad week.” Get back on track IMMEDIATELY. It is too easy to say you’ll start again tomorrow, or next Monday, or even next month for that matter. You don’t need a “New Year” to have a new start… get back on the bandwagon RIGHT NOW! nutritionbybru.com

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regimen

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SWING PAIN-FREE

By Spencer Scalzitti, M.S. Sports Science, Corrective Exercise Specialist

ractice does not always make perfect. Hours at the tee repetitively swinging to practice your golf technique or hours on the tennis court hitting with a pro may not be what you need to do to improve your game. The number one player in the club can quickly fall to the fifth best player, tenth best player, or even out of the game for months if pain begins to develop. This pain can be anything from the achy lower back to the pinching feeling in the front of your shoulder every time you swing. Besides the obvious fact that when a player is in pain they may need to sit out a few games, pain can cause poor technique without you even being conscious of the changes.

sprained ankle occurring in your 20s, places you at a higher risk for being reinjured. This can be a utilized as a check mark on your self-assessment as to whether pain/injury is the reason you are not at the top of your game. Whether or not the old surgery or injury was rehabilitated at the time, an injury never fully heals. A sprained ankle can permanently lose maximum ROM even after being fully healed. This affects the function of your body as a whole. In health and exercise we are moving away from the idea that the different joints and muscles work independently. We now know the entire body works as a unit. If there is a chink in the chain, it will affect the function of the rest of the chain, which in turn will cause the body to compensate in many different ways. There is now a subsection of the health and fitness industry called Corrective Exercise Specialists that specialize in this type of rehabilitation.

An injury, or even if the body feels there is a potential for injury, will restrict your range of motion (ROM). The body does this by tightening certain muscles in your body to protect the joint where those muscles originate or attach. Even a 1-2% change in your swing can cause a detrimental difference to your game. There are different types of screening that can be performed in order to determine your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current range of motion compared to a normal or exemplarily ROM. The tests can also be a strong predictor of where you are at risk for future injury. There's pain you can feel, but a limited ROM may be protecting you from a developing injury that you may not be able to feel. All that may be apparent is that you are not playing up to your fullest potential.

Can bunions cause headaches? So yes, that same ankle sprain you had when you were 20 may be the cause of the current neck pain you feel during any bout of physical activity. The body operates through different fascial systems. Fascia is a type of connective tissue that connects different groups of muscles and joints to one another. This fascial system is the Superficial Back Line that connects the entire posterior surface of the body from the toes to the top of the head. So, for example, a bunion on your foot can pull on that fascial system all the way up to the top of the head possibly causing chronic headaches from the consistent tug in the fascial chain. That is just one example from one of the 8 fascial systems in the body. Seeking out a local trained Corrective Exercise Professional is the first step toward improving more than just your game. So, before you fire your coach for not improving your handicap or your serve, it's time to look less at technique and more at function.

Your 40s are a painful reminder of your 20s Having a past injury, which can be anything from a rotator cuff repair to a 84 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

jetset

25A

THE STAFFORD LONDON

A Luxury St. James Property Warmly Welcomes American Guests

By Janis Turk

n American flag hangs outside one of London’s most charming— and thoroughly British—luxury hotel properties, The Stafford London. Tucked discreetly away from the noise and bustle of double-decker tourist busses and big black London taxicabs, hidden at the end of a quiet enclave amid the splendors of the St. James district edging Green Park, The Stafford London epitomizes posh buttonedup English elegance but also offers a decidedly American air of open and heartfelt hospitality. How can it simultaneously be so quintessentially British and yet so Yankee Doodle dandy? Visit The Stafford, and you’ll see. A private, independently owned independent historic hotel near Green Park, Buckingham Palace and Mayfair, The Stafford London is as timeless as the city to which it belongs. Founded in 1912, it features 105 individually decorated bedrooms and suites housed in three buildings. And though The Stafford is every bit as stylish and sophisticated as any other luxury London property—keeping pace with similar 5-star spaces such as The 86 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

Goring, The Wellesley, and the like—there is something alluring about its American interface: the way it attracts visitors from every continent with its casual club-like American Bar and unique Blue Ball Yard courtyard featuring a private exit behind the hotel. The American Bar is dark and inviting, with tiny tables, an unpretentious bar menu, classic cocktails and highballs, and walls and ceilings covered with sports memorabilia, celebrity photographs, baseball caps, club ties, flags and souvenirs sent from all over the world by loyal guests. But as American as its bar may be, The Stafford has a far more British sensibility overall, as well as an air of history, and a longtime commitment to quality and service. Standing near Piccadilly Road and just off Green Park, The Stafford is housed in a building dating to the 17th century. According to hotel records, its Main House buildings were originally built as private residences, with Number 17 St. James Place being most famously owned by Lord and Lady Lyttelton, daughter of the then Earl Spencer, (to whom Princess Diana would be

related). Over the years, the house changed hands many times and was used for many things. The Stafford Club, originally housed at Number 18, was added in 1886, and in 1912, when the hotel was extended to include Number 16, The Stafford London was born. Now, more than a century later, it is a meticulously modern property with luxury accommodations, fine dining, a popular bar, meeting spaces, an elegant restaurant and lounge, and a large underground wine cellar. The Stafford projects elegance with modern touches and fine amenities. Offering three styles of rooms and suites, guests may choose accommodations in the elegant Main House, the contemporary Mews Suites or The Stafford’s Carriage House, which offer my favorite suites in the hotel, even though these face the courtyard where American Bar guests may dine, making it a bit noisier on warm summer nights. The Carriage House offers 12 traditional rooms and suites set in former 18thcentury mews and stables of nobility. Its rooms feature a charming countryside ambience, with split stable doors, wooden beams and chic English country house interiors. Each room features a large flat-screened television, a desk, a lounge area, and a Nespresso machine, as well as a king-sized bed and luxury end-suite bathrooms with high-end amenities. The Carriage House also offers the Guv'nor's Suite, a spacious split-level apartment including a dining area, library, two bathrooms, a fireplace and kitchen. In the 26 Mews suites, including the Penthouse suite, a more classic, contemporary English elegance is showcased in a separate building that also features a private entrance and a fitness center.

In the Main House, guests are greeted by name at reception, and in it are 67 rooms and suites combining Victorian grandeur with modern comfort. The Main House is also home to the elegant Lyttelton Restaurant and lounge with its fireplaces, plush upholstered furnishings, ornate frosting-like crown moldings and a soft ivory, lavender and grey color palette with floral fabrics, custom draperies and an a custom-designed gilt chandelier. While guests enjoy a fine English breakfast each morning at the formal Lyttelton Restaurant, I enjoy most the afternoon tea. A little-known fact about The Stafford is that during World War II it served as a club for American and Canadian officers stationed overseas who sought refuge in its underground 380-year-old vaulted wine cellars. Today’s affluent guests and London’s elite often arrange for intimate dinners and private group events in the Wine Cellars. Wines from The Stafford’s exquisite collection are available to all guests during meals at The Lyttelton, where executive chef Carlos Martinez offers classic and modern cuisine with a Mediterranean flavor. The Stafford London, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, is located near many of London’s biggest attractions, including art galleries, theatres, and the royal palaces and parks, as well as the finest shopping of Jermyn Street and Fortnum & Mason. It’s also near London’s famous Ritz hotel. However, sophisticated American travelers know it is The Stafford that offers the perfect London stay—hidden away at a quiet address where Old Glory still waves. thestaffordlondon.com 87

Cardiff Castle

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WILD ABOUT WALES

Exploring the Wonders of Britain’s Best-Kept Secret Destination

By Janis Turk

n England, travelers crowd the gates of Buckingham Palace to watch the changing of the guard. In Scotland, they head to the Highlands to look for the Loch Ness Monster. In Ireland, they drink Guinness and do pub crawls in Dublin—and all of that is grand. But until they’ve visited Wales, they haven’t seen what may arguably be the best of Great Britain. So what’s in Wales? Everything! Ancient castles, thrilling outdoor adventure spots, sprawling country manors, organic farms and cooking schools, fine restaurants, high-end hotels, pubs and inns, coal mines, artists’ enclaves, towns with cobbled streets, hills for hunting and hikes, parks, bike trails, boats, mountains, museums and more. Wales is wonderful—and it’s so easy to explore. Just two hours by car or coach from London (and even faster by train) rests Cardiff, its capital, an exciting urban port city, offering everything from high-speed boat rides to a Dr. Who exhibit, a spectacular opera house and even a medieval castle. Or enter into the quiet beauty of rural Wales by flying into Manchester, England and then traveling by car, coach or train into nearby Northern Wales. Then what?

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Storm a Castle! Travel along the North Wales Coast and stop in the town of Conwy, where both this seaside village and Conwy Castle are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then enjoy a cup of tea at the old Castle Hotel coaching inn, and then at the water’s edge see the smallest house in Britain. Or if you start in the south of Wales at Cardiff, visit Cardiff Castle, a medieval fortress and Victorian-era mansion in the city center. Sleep in Style! For an extraordinary overnight stay, visit Bodysgallen Hall, a historic Welsh manor with handsome hedge-lined gardens. Featuring comfortable drawing rooms with oversized fireplaces and wide windows overlooking a sweeping valley with views of Conwy Castle, Bodysgallen offers luxury accommodations and fine dining as well as a large separate spa with an indoor pool. Or travel further south and stay at one of the most elegant and meticulously curated country manors in the country: Llangoed Hall. Sparing no expense, its owner Calum Milne (great grandson of author A.A. Milne) has restored and renovated the estate, which was once a country house of the late world-

Adventure Anyone? If you seek adventure and thrills, visit Zip World Titan in Blaenau Ffestiniog. With a series three zip line wires set up in a disused quarry, the first ride is a half-mile run high above sheep-dotted hills with striking windswept views of the Snowdonia mountain range. Then the next two trips involve 70-mileper-hour plunges over jagged quarries and mines. In the distance stands Cadair Idris, a favorite hikers' mountain that dominates the southern end of the National Park. To the north-west is Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England—popular with mountain climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts and photographers. Then head deep underneath the same mountain to experience Bounce Below, an adventure experience set in a 176-year old cavern filled with large trampoline-like nets hung within two vast chambers, all illuminated by technicolored lights.

Bodysgallen Hal

Llangoed Hall The Bear Hotel

renowned fashion designer Laura Ashley. Staying in one of its spacious suites, guests may feel as though they’re living on the set of Downton Abbey. Guestrooms feature vistas of the elegant gardens and grounds. Large drawing rooms with enormous fireplaces, fine furnishings and priceless art and antiques make staying here divine, and Llangoed Hall’s chef de cuisine Nick Brodie makes dining there an unforgettable experience. The mansion stands near Hay on Wye, a little town known as the Second-Hand-Book Capital of the World. With cobbled streets lined with book shops, tearooms, antique stores, charity thrift shops and boutiques, it’s also home to the internationally acclaimed annual Hay-on-Wye Literary Festival.

Bed and Brew Want to experience Wales at its most welcoming? Stay in a traditional pub/inn, or just drop by for a brew. In the town of Tregaron, visit Y Talbot a 17th-century inn on the square with clean rooms, good beds, modern en-suite bathrooms, a traditional pub and an exceptional restaurant. Or pass through the town of Crickhowell and visit the Bear Hotel for a brew and a big Welsh lunch in South Wales. Capital Idea—Cardiff! No visit would be complete without seeing the cosmopolitan capital city of Cardiff. With a young energetic pulse fed by its large university, Cardiff is known for food and fun and a vibrant bayside pier area. It’s also home to modern structures like the Millennium Centre, the new Welsh Parliament, and Millennium Stadium. Stay at the 4-star Cardiff Marriott in the city center, set amid shopping streets, restaurants, clubs and Victorian shopping arcades. Dine at Chapel 1877, a three-floor restaurant and bar featuring cutting-edge cuisine set in a historic church building, or pop into the Potted Pig, a hip gastropub in a former underground bank vault. Visit the National Museum of Wales, tour Cardiff Castle, and then take a water taxi down to the bayside area where fans will enjoy the Dr. Who Experience in an interactive museum paying tribute to the cult-classic television series. Isn’t it time you discover Wales’ myriad delights and see Britain at its best?

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25A

PAINTED HALL The UK's Sistine Chapel By Victoria R. Crosby

he Painted Hall has been called “the Sistine Chapel of the UK,” “one of the finest paintings in Britain,” and “a jewel of the Royal Borough of Greenwich.”

The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is a magnificent building, designed by Sir Christopher Wren, one of England’s most famous architects. When in London last summer, I took a boat on the River Thames to the iconic landmark in Greenwich, which was commissioned in 1694 for King William III and Queen Mary II as the Royal Hospital for Seamen. Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson recuperated there at Greenwich Hospital after losing his arm in battle in 1797, and his body lay in state in the Painted Hall after his death in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The Nelson Room, is a small exhibition space in an upper floor of a two story building linking the Painted Hall with the Chapel of St. Peter and St. Paul. The Royal Hospital for Seamen later became the Royal Naval College, a 90 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

training academy for officers until 1997. The following year it became part of The Greenwich Foundation, a charitable trust whose mission is to preserve, conserve and interpret the buildings and grounds. The site has a fascinating history. It was originally occupied by Bella Court, a manor house built in the 1420s for the Duke of Gloucester. Henry VII rebuilt it as Greenwich Palace in the 1490s, and it was the birthplace of Henry VIII, Mary I and Elizabeth l. That palace no longer exists, as it fell into disrepair during the English Civil War, and what was left of it was demolished. In the nineteenth century visitors would arrive by boat and enter through the magnificent decorative Water Gate with the perfect perspective view of the buildings. Today the boats dock a little further down, and you can visit the nearby Discover Greenwich Visitor Center and gift shop, (I bought myself a lovely silk scarf with the Painted Ceiling design,) then follow the footpath for a close up of the view as painted by Canaletto in the mid-1700s of “Greenwich Hospital from the North Bank of the Thames."

As you face the twin buildings, the one on the right houses the Painted Hall and on the left is the Chapel. The other buildings house the University of Greenwich and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance. It’s not unusual to hear students practicing as you walk on the wide lawn. In between the two building is the Queen’s House, the oldest building in this World Heritage Site, built in 1616 for the wife of King James l, Anne of Denmark, designed by Inigo Jones, who also designed the Banqueting House in Whitehall. (see September/October 2014 issue of 25A Magazine). I was aware of the mission to restore and conserve the Painted Hall, but when I first viewed the huge breathtaking murals covering the walls and ceiling, the need to restore didn’t hit me at first. However it was pointed out by my guide, Andrew Thompson, who was very knowledgeable, that part of the restoration process had begun, and when you compare that part to the unrestored walls and ceiling, the need for work becomes obvious. The paintings were completed over many years, and it will take many years to bring them back to their former glory. The Upper Hall has been restored and the colors are brighter than the yet-to-be-restored areas, there is no flaking or cracking under layers of dust and food, remember this was a dining hall for seamen, so perhaps there were food fights!

The paintings tell a story, an allegory of politics, religion, the monarchy, and maritime commerce and power. The four seasons are represented as well as the signs of the zodiac. The Chapel of St. Peter and Paul was completed in 1789 in neo-classical design by James ‘Athenian’ Stuart and William Newton. The marble flooring features distinctive naval ropes and anchors in the patterns. It is still in use as a place of worship and members of the public are invited to attend the Sunday services. There is no fee to visit the building of the Old Royal Naval College, but donations from the public are always welcome. Although many tourists and visitors may not realize it, this building has been used in scenes of many films and television shows, including Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, The King’s Speech, The Iron Lady, Skyfall, Les Miserables and many others. Most recently spotted in episodes of the satirically outrageous show, The Royals, seen on E TV in the US, I immediately recognized the Painted Hall and the Chapel. In fact the Painted Hall and the Chapel can be hired as a venue for weddings and charity events, as well as locations for films and television. The cost of the complete restoration and conservation is estimated to be eight million pounds, which is approximately a little over eleven million dollars. ornc.org

Victoria Crosby is available for poetry readings, which entertain and inspire, and power point presentations on historic preservation, at libraries and other venues. For further information contact 516.864.2525. Victoria Crosby has been Glen Cove's poet laureate since 1994. Her radio show, Oasis, for relaxation and inspiration, can be heard every Thursday at 2pm on WHPC 90.3fm. and at any time on NCC.EDU/WHPC. 91

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25A

NOBLE HOUSES

Three Delightful Hong Kong Dining Destinations

By Norah Bradford

ierce Brosnan swash-buckled his way through 1960s Hong Kong social and corporate politics in The TV mini-series of James Clavell’s best selling novel, Noble House a quarter of a century ago. Fast forward to 2016 and here are three of the best dining experiences to make you feel like a modern-day Taipan.

Man Wah Sample contemporary Cantonese cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the Harbor and City from the 25th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. The sumptuous interior is composed of ceiling lamps resembling a plethora of birdcages and walls adorned with hand paintings on silks. Chef Chi-Kwong Hung offers signature dishes including steamed fillet of spotted garoupa with crispy ginger, crabmeat and egg alongside an extensive dim sum menu. Rated four stars by Forbes Travel, Man Wah offers both lunch and dinner service. Man Wah is located in the Mandarin Oriental, hotel Hong Kong – the first Mandarin in the world and still the benchmark for luxury accommodation and service. The hotel is centrally located and boasts a range of dining and accommodation options for the Asian travel fan. mandarinoriental.com/hongkong/fine-dining/man-wah Afternoon tea at the Peninsula Hotel Held in the Lobby of this colonially-inspired architectural masterpiece is the quintessential afternoon tea experience. The Peninsula Hotel has for over 85 years served tea daily amidst the sumptuous seating and elegant lobby where people can meet and participate in a revered social tradition whilst listening to the soothing sounds of the Lobby Strings. Afternoon tea in the lobby includes a selection of finger sandwiches and savouries, homemade afternoon tea pastries, freshly baked raisin scones with accompanying clotted cream and jam in addition to a wide choice of teas from the Peninsula Tea Collection. Dress code is smart casual and seating is conducted on a first come-first served basis. hongkong.peninsula.com/en/fine-dining/the-lobby-afternoon-tea

China Tang A taste of the past delivered in a contemporary fashion. Like “bringing coals to Newcastle” Sir David Tang has brought to Hong Kong his vision originally executed at the Dorchester Hotel in London. China Tang aims to offer the best Chinese food in sumptuous surroundings. Signature dishes include the China Tang barbequed Pork, steamed Shanghai ‘Xiao Long Bao’ and marinated sea cucumber with Sichuan Peppercorn. chinatang.hk

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ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST SERIES II EXTENDED WHEELBASE Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC, P.O. Box 1227, Westwood, NJ 07675-1227 Tel: 1-877-877-3735 | www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com Â© Copyright Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. The Rolls-Royce name and logo are registered trademarks.

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THE SILVER MUSE TAKES SHAPE An Olympian Development in Luxury Cruising

By Norah Bradford

Muse is defined in the dictionary as one of the nine goddesses of the arts born of Zeus and Mnemosyne. The recent keel laying ceremony for the ninth Silversea luxury cruise vessel, the Silver Muse aims to set a new benchmark in luxury cruising.

Silversea is well known for its fleet of eight vessels, five ships carrying an exclusively small number of passengers around the world (The Silver Cloud, Wind, Shadow, Whisper and Spirit) in addition to three specialist expedition ships (The Silver Galapagos, Explorer and Discoverer), which mount excursions to the Arctic, Antarctica, Micronesia and more challenging destinations such as the Galapagos islands. The Silver Muse is an organic evolution of the most recent ship of the fleet, the Silver Spirit. Whilst offering the luxury boutique feel the Silver Muse has a capacity for near 600 passengers with many more suite accommodations than earlier vessels. Classic, Superior and Deluxe Veranda Suites offer spacious accommodations and floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto a private veranda offering a combined living space of 450 sq. ft. All of the veranda suites offer luxurious bathrooms and they enjoy the same Pratesi bed linens, Etro Bathrobes and Bulgari bath amenities. The Silver Suites offers larger bedroom configurations nearly twice to three times larger 94 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

than the Veranda Suites bedrooms. The Grand Suite offers the most luxe configuration with a veranda which wraps around two sides of the suite which is ideally built for entertaining. Cruise cognoscenti will of course be seeking the Owner’s Suite which combines the luxury of the Grand Suite but sacrifices the scale of veranda for a central position on the Silver Muse – ideal should the greek god of the sea, Poseidon seek to disturb your voyage. In terms of dining options the Silver Muse retains some of the familiar elements with La Terraza though adds an Asian dining experience called Kabuki, the Atlantide bar & grill offering meat and seafood. Hot Rocks and the Regina Margherita add more casual, though distinctive dining options, the latter being an all-day traditional pizza oven. Rounding out the dining options will be La Grande Dame – a Relais & Chateau accredited restaurant offering a unique at-sea dining experience. The maiden voyage for the Silver Muse will depart April 10th, 2017 from Monaco in the Mediterranean, meanwhile January 6th 2017 sees the departure of a 116-day world cruise with the Silver Whisper.

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ROCKY MOUNTAIN LUXURY Azuridge Estate

By Hillary Latos | Photos by Thomas Higgins

amed after the azure color of the clear blue skies, the ridge of expansive mountains surrounding the magnificent property, and the azurite mineral known as the “stone of the heaven,” Azuridge Estate is Alberta’s premiere lodge just 30 minutes away from downtown Calgary. Set on 13 lush acres in the foothills of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, become one with nature in this heavenly five-star luxury lodge that feels like a private residence with the amenities of a luxury boutique hotel. The design was inspired by the historical Canadian Pacific Railway’s Rocky Mountain stations with an earthy blend of indigenous rundle rock and timber beam held and steel beams. Originally designed as a private retreat, this 27,000-square-foot property is divided into two buildings: the original 13,000-square-foot private home now named Sapphire Hall and the guest house named Emerald Manor. The buildings were designed by Simpson Roberts Architecture and Interior Design to feature expansive windows, exposed timber, slate and stone to evoke a natural and seamless flow between the outdoors and indoors, and has been designated as a structure of Significant Alberta Architecture. Modern yet warm the floor-to ceiling windows bring nature into the dramatic 13 luxuriously appointed suites that each reflect a different design aesthetic, color scheme and essence of different gemstones. Depending on your preference of stone choose from

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themed rooms named after Amethyst, Peridot, Hematite, Onyx, Malachite, Pearl, Citrine, Garnet, Chalcedony, Jasper and others. Every suite comes with its own gilded butler who is there to attend to a guest’s every need. After a long day of hiking, skiing or horseback riding depending on the season, enjoy an in-room spa experience—from a massage to a hydrotherapy bath— drawn nightly by your butler and capped off with a cordial of your choice. Visitors are made to feel like guests of the estate and you can admire the breathtaking scenery from your en-suite balcony overlooking the manicured gardens or make new friends by the fireplace in the cozy Rocky Mountaininspired Tiger Eye den as you enjoy a cordial or glass of wine from the honor bar. Enjoy delicious modern fusion cuisine from Executive Chef Yoshi Chubachi who prepares an elaborate and sumptuous multi-course Chef’s table dinner that changes nightly reflecting his inspiration. A true showman, Chef Chubachi loves to engage in lively conversation with his guests as he explains each masterful creation he has prepared. Afterward retreat to your lavish suite to enjoy the attributes and healing powers of the individual precious stone that it embodies.

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IL SALVIATINO A Tuscan Dream

By Hillary Latos

xperience the romance of Tuscany at Il Salviatino. Only 20 minutes away from Florence, the incredibly romantic and inspiring hotel, a 15th-century villa nestled in the hills of Fiesole embodies the magic and unmatched eternal beauty of Tuscany. Meander through the fragrant terraced garden filled with the heady scent of fruit and olive trees as you admire the views over Florence. Only minutes away from all of the attractions of Florence, Il Salviatino provides complimentary shuttle service to the Duomo, the main square, which is in the middle of all of the attractions of this historic city. After a busy day of sightseeing retreat to the solace of your beautifully appointed room that offers luxurious comfort in a regal setting. Every room is individually decorated with Tuscan artwork and artisanal-crafted furnishings along with sumptuous linens surrounded by the comforts of modern technology. Choose from rooms in the main villa or along the greenhouse surrounded by the lush terraced landscape. If you are looking for a true “room with a view” book the Dome-view deluxe which has warm rustic interiors and breathtaking views of the Duomo and Italian gardens. The sprawling Greenhouse suites are 800 square feet and feature a contemporary design. Bathed in natural light, these elegant suites are the ultimate in luxury and privacy with glassenclosed greenhouse living rooms and direct access to the villa’s park and gardens. Live like royalty in the seductive Ojetti suite with two floors of living space, a private rooftop balcony and Jacuzzi overlooking the hills of Tuscany.

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The warm rich Tuscan interior and glass-floored living area only enhance the magic of this suite. Tuscan cuisine is considered to be among the best in the world, and the famous dine-around half- and full-board plans are an excellent way to explore the culinary scene in Florence. The kitchen serves contemporary Italian cuisine which changes seasonally using provisions grown on the property from their organic vegetable and herb gardens. Feeling more like a private home than a boutique hotel, the main dining room is set up as a stately reading room with luxurious furnishings serving contemporary Italian cuisine. Or with their dynamic board plan, the friendly staff can also set up meals at some of their favorite Florentine restaurants frequented by locals. While in Tuscany take the time to explore one of the world’s finest wine regions. Just outside of Florence is one of the leading Tuscan producers, Marchesi de Frescobaldi founded in the 14th century. With over 700 years of experience, the family has deep roots within the development of medieval Florence and their wine was served to kings and queens as well as Renaissance artists. With nine estates in their portfolio, their award-winning wines possess a unique flavor and composition that expresses the terroir from which they are produced. salviatino.com frescobaldi.it

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SAILING IN STYLE Anthem of the Seas

By Jennifer Pelaez

edefining the cruising experience and creating quite a buzz in the nautical world, Royal Caribbean's recently debuted Anthem of the Seas is nothing short of a majestically luxurious floating mega-resort. With a length spanning 1,141 feet, Anthem of the Seas is the most technologically advanced ship in Royal Caribbean’s new Quantum class of vessels and can comfortably accommodate up to 4,905 guests with 18 decks. Touted as the world’s most revolutionary cruise ship, Anthem of the Seas offers unprecedented innovations in ship design, game- changing technology, and multidimensional entertainment. Ultra-fast Internet and RFID technology is prevalent throughout the ship that will impress tech-savvy travelers. You can even use it to order a custom cocktail at the first-ever Bionic Bar, where robotic arms prepare drinks while a DJ stationed nearby adds to the trendy cool vibe. Upon entering the stately ship, it's hard not to be impressed by the airy high ceilings and the ship's sheer grandeur and modernity which is perfectly lavished with a multimillion-dollar contemporary art collection, including a strikingly extensive Swarovski crystal cherry blossom wall and on-board galleries. The muted earth-tone carpets and dark woods are offset by glass and soft pastel accents and modern sophisticated designs. With so many activities and spaces to explore, this floating city will certainly keep you entertained, even a week-long cruise might not be enough to take it all in.

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Try the RipCord by iFLY, a skydiving simulator as well as a 40-foot-long FlowRider surf simulator, not to be missed. One of Quantum’s most striking features is the unique North Star, a glass observation capsule suspended from a giant cranelike arm that lifts you 300 feet above sea level, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean. A visit to SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea, will keep you busy for days and includes a trapeze circus school, basketball court, as well as bumper cars, roller skating and a food truck. Packed full of an array of lounges, bars and restaurants to rival the biggest resorts of Las Vegas, Anthem of the Seas offers an option for every possible kind of craving. Their "dynamic dining" is a new concept that allows for more options and flexibility, moving away from large-scale dining rooms with set dining times in favor of 18 smaller but distinct dining experiences: from Silk, a pan-Asian concept to The Grande, a more formal classic European establishment, to American Icon Grill which features regional comfort food to a traditional buffet, Windjammer Marketplace. Food connoisseurs should reserve a table at one of Anthem of the Sea's signature restaurants that require an additional fee and feature celebrity chefs and new concepts such as: Michael’s Genuine Pub, from Miami’s Michael Schwartz, the Chef’s Table at Chop’s Grill, British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s Italian creations, and Biggest Loser chef Devin Alexander’s health-conscious menu at Devinly Decadence. royalcaribbean.com

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Barbara Prey with National Endowment for the Arts Chairman Jane Chu on a studio visit to Prey’s Oyster Bay Studio in front of her watercolor “Field of Dreams,”32” x 40”

BARBARA ERNST PREY At Home on Long Island By Tori Phelps

Globally acclaimed artist Barbara Ernst Prey travels the world but has always called New York home “Starving artist” is a cliché for a reason. It’s how most artists begin, and often end, their careers. But Barbara Ernst Prey has never been one to follow the crowd. She sold one of her first paintings—at age seventeen—to then-New York Gov. Hugh Carey. European nobility began collecting her work when she was barely out of her teens. “It was an auspicious start,” she concedes. Often mentioned in the same breath as Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent, though with a 21st century view, Prey’s work is on display everywhere from royal residences to foreign embassies. But she is, first and foremost, an American artist. In fact, Prey is a proud born-and-bred New Yorker. Her artist mother, who led the design department at the legendary Pratt Institute, practically raised her inside NYC’s museums. She also tagged along with her mother on plein air painting expeditions—the style Prey still prefers today. “She would go out East to paint,” Prey recalls, adding that she’s currently revisiting places where the two painted. From the start, Prey’s career has been a whirlwind of country-hopping. She attended the illustrious Williams College (she also has a Master’s from Harvard) and completed an internship at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Prey then earned a Fulbright Scholarship to study and paint in Europe and, 102 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

later, spent a year painting and exhibiting in Taiwan with a grant from the Henry Luce Foundation. In between, she worked as the personal assistant to a Prince, joined Sotheby’s modern painting department, and contributed artwork to major publications like The New Yorker and the New York Times. Today, Prey has fully reclaimed her New York roots. She keeps studios in Maine and Massachusetts (where she also serves as adjunct faculty at Williams College), but most of her time is spent in a light-filled Oyster Bay studio overlooking the water. It’s here she feels connected to the landscape that has always inspired her. “I grew up painting in my mother’s studio—on top of a hill surrounded by woods with a view of the water,” she says. “And now, I can look out my window, and there’s all this incredible material to paint.” The kind of success Prey has experienced is incredibly rare. She understands that, which is why she uses her elevated profile to benefit environmental causes and children’s charities. Her latest project is a series of ten digital prints—including iconic Long Island scenes—issued in limited edition this holiday season in support of Save the Children and its global refugee relief work.

She’s especially honored to represent New York in her appointment to the National Council on the Arts, the advisory board of the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Artists, including past members like John Steinbeck and Leonard Bernstein, are appointed for their accomplishments and distinguished service in the arts. The appointment is a tremendous honor, especially because Prey is the only visual artist on the board, and she takes the position seriously. “I’m astounded by the variety of art that we, as Americans, create,” she marvels. “I consider myself very fortunate to nominate National Medal of Arts Awardees and vote on grants for the arts in America.” It’s fitting, then, that her paintings are often linked to iconic American institutions. Her art was featured on the 2003 White House Christmas card, earning her a rare spot in the White House permanent collection. NASA commissioned four works from Prey, an uncommonly large commission for the agency. Her paintings of the Columbia Tribute and International Space Station are on exhibit at Kennedy Space Center, and her painting

"October," watercolor, 32” x 40” "Family Portrait," watercolor 22” x 30”

"Fibonacci’s Workshop," watercolor 32” x 40”

From her 9/11 series to Long Island marsh grasses, Prey’s work outs her as a native New Yorker. She’s proud to be a recipient of the New York State Senate Women of Distinction Award, a prize that puts her in company like Harriet Tubman and Eleanor Roosevelt. She also received the Heckscher Museum Celebrate Achievement Award in recognition of her contribution to the arts.

of the x-43 was included in a 12 museum Smithsonian traveling exhibit, an experience she discussed on CBS Evening News. Prey is also part of the U.S. State Department’s Art in Embassies program. Her art has been exhibited in the Paris, Madrid, Prague, and Oslo embassies and is currently in Hong Kong. In addition, three of her paintings were requested by the U.S. Mission to the United Nations for the UN Security Council’s December meeting. This master American artist continues to bring her home-grown perspective to international exhibitions, too. Her Paris exhibit, curated by Sarah Cash of The National Gallery of Art, was so popular that Paris Capitale magazine concluded her watercolors were “not to be missed.” No wonder Prey’s work is so hard to come by. When not on loan to international peacekeeping organizations and exhibitions, her paintings are snapped up by presidential libraries, museums, and celebrities. But Prey seems less impressed by who owns her work than by whom her work is surrounded by. “I do know they’re in great collections, hanging next to incredible painters,” she says. “I get to see that now as I visit some of my paintings.” And then, as always, she’ll come home to Long Island. barbaraprey.com 103

Photo by Karsten Staiger

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DIANA PINCK On Her Next Adventure

By W.A. Muller

ainter, writer, photographer, and 25A magazine’s current Arts & Travel Editor Diana Pinck will soon return to Switzerland where she grew up. Despite her departure, she promises to send in articles from all the marvelous places she will be jet setting to in the future.

Ms. Pinck has contributed to 25A magazine from its inception, when the magazin was still an idea in publisher Chase Backer’s mind. She laughs: “It started as a dare, but before I knew it I was part of the team. I am so blessed, I had the wonderful opportunity to meet and interview so many exceptional artists and fascinating people in the world of Art and Entertainment.” These encounters and exchanges of ideas had a deep influence on her own work. Pinck, who studied film production at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, had mainly worked as a fine artist up until starting at 25A magazine. Encouraged by Chase Backer who recognized her talent, she picked up photography and writing again – two passions that had lain dormant for more than a decade. As a painter, Pinck’s work has evolved with her over the years. Eschewing advice from friends, teachers, and other successful artists to stick to one particular style, Pinck went from painting detailed realistic pastel paintings to painting large graphic oil paintings steeped in mythology. In late 2015, her work reached a new plateau when she started working with fine metal

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leaf in a unique style and technique exclusively her own. “Everything I have been doing up to now, has brought me to this point, to this style.” This new technique is very involved. First, a monochromatic sketch is laid down in oil onto the bare canvas. After the paint has sufficiently dried up -which takes about two to four weeks - gold, silver and/or copper leaf is applied over the entire canvas or in sections. Again, the canvas has to dry for another week before Pinck can finally paint onto the metal leaf. Sometimes this process is repeated several times. The result are unique multidimensional paintings that glow and change as you look at them and with the light that falls upon them. They are best seen in person or on a video, as a photo cannot fully convey the effect and the light and movement that shines from them. Pinck will be auctioning her work from the past seven years at her “Farewell New York” event at Hendricks Tavern in Roslyn, on February 2nd, 2016. “It will be a chance to say goodbye to all my friends and leave behind a small part of myself in the homes of my friends and collectors. Nothing makes me happier than bringing joy and light into a heart and a home with my art.” dianapinck.com facebook.com/dianapinckart

MIRIJANA 3, oil on gold leaf & canvas, 24”x24”

BELLE DE JOUR 1, oil on silver leaf & canvas 9”x12"

LEDA, oil on gold leaf & canvas 16”x20"

GEORGINA, oil on gold leaf & canvas, 18”x24"

EVANGELIC, oil & silver leaf on canvas, 30"x40"

SONJJA 2, oil & copper leaf on canvas, 16”x20"

Quotes by collectors, artists and friends about Diana Pinck and her work: “In her art Diana Pinck combines fragility, strength and sensuality. Her creativity and fine touch of color is completely unique, and it shows her sensitivity and spirituality. She has the gift to capture the essence of the soul and beauty of her subjects in a profound way.” Sonjja Baram, fashion designer and entrepreneur.

“Diana’s artwork grabs the senses with a creative array of colors and fluidity. She brings in a calming spiritual and metaphysical element.” Dr. David A. Gentile, D.O.

"Deciding on which one of Diana Pinck's must have paintings I was going to buy, was like deciding on my favorite sunset or what playboy centerfold I wanted to spend the rest of my life with. This one... and this one... and this one." W. G. Griffiths, author

"I love Diana’s unique style and how the metallics bring her paintings to life and give them so much depth and movement.” Jane Incao, graphic designer

“Diana is a very talented artist. She has the unique gift of being able to sublimate her thoughts, communicate and express her ideas through a variety of mediums. Her artwork captures so many different feelings and emotions - outstanding work!” Joseph Kote, fine artist

“Like no other artist I know, Diana Pinck uses her hands, her mind and her soul as a tool to create her paintings, which are full of color and life and emotions. She paints our lives’ rainbow.” Enkelejd Mezini, actor

“Diana Pinck’s art is a profound expression of her higher self. She blends her paintings, photography and written work to produce unique stories of human expression. Her art resonates with me deeply because of the sensual and romantic nature of her work.” Venus Quintana, media personality 105

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BETH SHAK The Poker Queen

By Chris Marchese

or most people, being known as one of the most successful women in professional poker would be good enough, but not for Beth Shak. Her extensive designer shoe collection—she owns over 1,200 pairs that are estimated to be worth more than $1 million—landed her a spot in an American documentary about women and their shoes. Most recently, the business-savvy Shak launched her own luxury poker set, which comes in a handcrafted wood box lined with black velvet and makes for the perfect Valentine's gift. bethshak.com/ poker-chip-set This business venture comes in addition to Shak's clothing lines, Beth Shak and Beth Shak Couture, which are proving to be a hit with women inspired by the Poker Queen's glamorous style. bethshak. com/content/shopping Remarkably, Shak also finds time to give poker lessons to individuals and groups for $1,000 an hour and teach women how to win a man using poker. Shak's success is not surprising as she’s always been an entrepreneur at heart. A mother of three grown children, Shak splits her time between her Manhattan loft and a sprawling home in Byrn Mawr, Pennsylvania, balancing her work and family life. In 2004, Shak taught herself to play poker by using the website Full Tilt Poker. Once she gained enough experience and confidence, she began competing in professional poker tournaments. Not long after, she became a force to be reckoned with: Shak took second place at the 2007 World Series of Poker's No Limit Hold 'Em, earning almost $330,000, participated in Playboy's "Aces & Angels" tournament in 2009, and made it to the finals table in a sevencard stud tournament in South Africa.

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Poker isn't Shak's only passion. Long an admirer of couture, she began collecting designer shoes in her twenties. This passion then led her to a career in fashion, where she cut her teeth owning a private vintage and designer clothing company. Shak's love of fashion also manifested itself in her personal life; she developed a ritual of purchasing a new pair of shoes before every tournament. For Shak, wearing designer shoes is "like wearing a piece of jewelry." Thankfully, Shak's passions are mutually reinforcing: "I buy with my winnings," says Shak, and, it seems, her pre-tournament ritual brings her good luck. Of course, as any of her competitors will tell you, she doesn't need luck. Shak is a skillful, sometimes ruthless, opponent. A few years ago, Shak, who saw herself "doing something in fashion," as she puts it, decided the time had come to launch her own clothing and footwear lines. Visitors to her website will quickly realize Shak offers customers more than just apparel: the site is a repository of lifestyle anecdotes, from gourmet cooking to philanthropy. Given the interconnectedness of Shak's professional and personal passions, this makes sense. After all, away from the poker tables and shoe racks, Shak spends time with her family and fiancé, Mark Yadgaroff, takes gourmet-cooking lessons, and focuses on giving back to society. In addition to participating in multiple charity poker tournaments and donating her shoes, Shak launched the Beth Shak Charitable Foundation to raise funds for other charitable organizations that support local communities throughout the country. As Shak states, "While I have been fortunate, I have also had struggle and loss in my life too. Philanthropy not only benefits others, it feels right too." bethshak.com

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DOUGLAS T. BURNS AND RANDY SCOTT ZELIN Leading Legal Commentators Collaborate In The Courtroom

By Salome Langvin

fter years of providing expert commentary and insight on high profile court cases, Douglas T. Burns and Randy Scott Zelin began working together professionally off screen to collaborate on high profile business crime and fraud cases.

Burns and Zelin are highly sought after legal commentators regularly appearing on Television and Radio networks such as Fox News, CNN, CBS, WPIX11, 20/20, HLN, Fox Business News, Bloomberg, WOR weekly and are frequently quoted in leading newspapers including the Wall Street Journal, New York Times. Prior to establishing his own firm, Douglas T. Burns was a federal prosecutor for the U.S. Department of Justice as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York for nine years and then served as the Deputy Chief of the Long Island (Criminal) Division. Afterwards, he joined the private sector and established Douglas T. Burns, ESQ., where he specializes in the White Collar criminal defense practice and complex litigation. His practice areas include white collar defense, SEC enforcement (insider trading and securities fraud), federal criminal taxation, regulatory and administrative law, and federal and state trials and appeals. Burns has tried numerous cases in the federal courts, numerous criminal cases in the

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state courts and has briefed and presented more than twenty five appeals in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, both as a lawyer for the government and as defense counsel. Randy Scott Zelin is a leading white collar criminal defense attorney, who has been named a New York Super Lawyer in consecutive years from 2011 through 2015, with over twenty five years of experience defending individual and corporate clients in both State and Federal Courts across the country. A former prosecutor, Zelin has represented many forms of business organizations, boards of directors, special committees, professionals and individuals in all aspects of complex criminal, regulatory, self-regulatory and civil matters, including, frauds related to securities, banking, tax, customs, and bankruptcy and insurance to name a few. Zelin is a true trial lawyer, having built his career trying complex fraud and business crime cases, and using that trial experience to whenever possible, keep clients out of the courtroom.

For more information on Douglas T. Burns, visit: martindale.com/Douglas-TBurns-Esq/2043932-lawyer.htm and for more information on Randy Scott Zelin, visit: randyzelinlaw.com.

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DR. DAVID SHUSTERMAN Advancing the Practice of Urological Care

By W.A. Wuller

oing to the hospital to have embarrassing and painful urological problems treated can be stressful, time consuming and expensive. The standard protocol for doctors working in, and affiliated with, hospitals is to send patients to different specialists for diagnosis and treatment, resulting in multiple appointments at different times in different locations. Often, patients have to endure painful and unnecessarily invasive procedures, are asked to return for multiple follow-ups, and accrue astronomical medical bills along the way. Dr. David Shusterman saw how chaotic and unmanageable this process was and decided to make the treatment and care of urological issues simple, bestin-class and sustainable for his patients. Dr. Shusterman, an American Board of Urology (ABU) certified physician and leader in the urological community, knew the first step was providing the best care possible. “A good number of urological physicians are quick to perform surgery or prescribe medication when in fact, many of the best treatments for kidney and bladder issues can be treated behaviorally or with minimally-invasive or non-invasive procedures. Patients should be wary of doctors that are quick to write and quick to cut,” he said. Using state of the art techniques such as vasectomies with no incision or laparoscopy to cure kidney stones, Dr. Shusterman treata patients quickly and effectively, often during the first visit, and drastically reduce recovery times. With all top of the line equipment under one roof, Dr. Shusterman’s patients are able to come into the office, receive all the necessary tests, and learn the results before they go home, a result that no hospital can replicate and few other urological physicians can produce. Dr. Shusterman began his medical career as a general surgeon but found that patient continuity was lacking. “I wanted to devote myself to a field that was on the cutting edge of science and medicine, but also gave me

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the opportunity to care for my patients over the long term,” he said. After completing his residency with eight years of surgical experience, more than four times the average, Dr. Shusterman established his practice in Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn to best serve his patients. “I hand-pick every single doctor, nurse and staff member in my practice to ensure they meet my own rigorous standards for excellence. Once they’re in, I take care of the infrastructure, logistics, billing and equipment so they can focus solely on patient care. No other practice takes such good care of participating physicians. We’re changing the model of medicine,” said Dr. Shusterman. Unlike many doctors who move rapidly from one patient to the next, Dr. Shuster takes extra time and care to communicate the rationale behind his decision making process and answer questions. He believes this type of interaction leads to better treatment and ultimately better patient results. “When I’m able to explain my thinking to a patient and have a dialogue with them they are involved – an informed and engaged patient is more likely to comply with treatment directives.” “The urological system eliminates waste from the human body. When we take in quality nutrients, they do little to no harm to our bodies as they pass through the kidneys and bladder. If we pair a good diet with specific exercises, we can maintain our urological systems in good working order for our entire lives.” Staying up-to-date on advances in urological techniques and equipment, advocating for a holistically healthy approach to life, and integrating all necessary services under one roof are Dr. Shusterman’s way of advancing the practice of Urology and staying at the forefront of his field. nyurology.com

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A PRIVATE EVENT WITH DR. DANOVICH

A Great Time was had at Agent Provocateur Boutique By Ryan Wilk| Photos by Benno Klandt

veryone enjoyed Dr. Svetlana Danovich's event at The Agent Provocateur Boutique back in December. Dr. Danovich is a top doctor in New York City and Long Island for cosmetic surgical arts. She was happy to spend a fun and relaxing evening with us. The sweets and Champagne were a luxurious topping on a wonderful night.

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25A NEW YORK CHARITY SCENES BENEFITING ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH AND THE HOMELESS By Clara Morgan

Project Renewal’s 9th Annual Fall Ball to Benefit Project Renewal’s 9th Annual Fall Ball to Benefit the Homeless: William Kehler of Manhattan the Homeless: Jeanette Bond and Megan Moonshine ©Lisa Ramsay Photography Elizabeth ©Lisa Ramsay Photography

The Alzheimer’s Association 32nd Annual Rita Hayworth Gala: Valentin Hernandez, Yaz Hernandez ©PatrickMcMullan.com 116 | 25A www.25Amagazine.com

The Alzheimer’s Association 32nd Annual Rita Hayworth Gala: Michele Herbert, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, B. Smith, Robin Melzer, Daryl Simon ©PatrickMcMullan.com

ROMONA KEVEZA NEW YORK FLAGSHIP • ONE ROCKEFELLER PLAZA• THE PENTHOUSE • 212.207.1080

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THREE BRITISH EVENTS Functions Helping British Treasure By Victoria R. Crosby

Private cocktail receptions were held at the following venues, to raise funds to restore and maintain British treasure. At the New York Historical Society in celebration of the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta, which was touring the United States in 2015. The Hereford Cathedral's Magna Carta is the finest of only four surviving exemplars of the 1217 Magna Carta. herefordcathedral.org At the Manhattan residence of the British Consul General, to update members of Historic Royal Palaces of the progress of the latest palace now under the care of HRP, Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland. hrp.org At The Explorerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club, a presentation on Conservation of a Masterpiece; the restoration of the Painted Hall completed in 1727 by Sir James Thornhill at the Old Royal Naval College, designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1694, in Greenwich, London. ornc.org

Photos by Russ Rowland

New York Historical Society

Photos by Jorge Franco

Manhattan residence of the British Consul General

Photos by Annie Watt

The Explorerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club

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GALAS GALORE Manhattan Events that Matter By Carlos Lacayo | Photos by Patrick McMullan

The Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization honored Apple CEO, Tim Cook, global philanthropist and UNESCO Ambassador Marianna Vardinoyannis and Congressman John Lewis and Evercore co-founder Roger Altman. rfkcenter.org

The Hope for Depression Research Foundation held its Ninth Annual Luncheon Seminar. Founder and HDFR Chair Audrey Gruss presented the HOPE Award to Mariel Hemingway and honored Demi Lovato. hopeforpression.org

The French Heritage Society honored interior designer Juan Pablo Molyneux and Champagne Taittinger’s Pierre-Emmanuel Taittinger. Chairs included Elizabeth Stribling, CeCe Black, Anne Van Ness and Robert de Rothschild. frenchheritagesociety.org

John Travolta and Vera Wang shopping at Lisa Jackson’s LJ Cross boutique for bejeweled necklaces and cashmere scarfs. Jackson held a benefit for the Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons. ljcrossny.com

Achim Daub, President of Symrise’s Scent & Care Division, the global health and wellness company for the whole family, hosted a party at The 1 Hotel to raise awareness of their sustainability efforts. symrise.com

Arthur Aidala, the President of the Brooklyn Bar Association, Mayor Bill de Blasio, Alan Dershowitz, Geraldo Rivera, Hot Bench’s Patricia DiMango and Marianne Bertuna were attended at their annual benefit. brooklynbar.org

David, Bobby and Jill Zarin hosted a holiday party benefitting Housing Works at Zarin Fabrics’ new show room on Orchard Street. Guests included Kelly Bensiomen, stylist Phillip Bloch, Vanity Fair writer George Wayne, and R. Couri Hay. zarinfabrics.com

The Dog Wedding, starring Rosalie Thomass and Matt Bloom, had a benefit premiere for Canine Companions for Independence and Long Island Bulldog Rescue. Guests included Stem Cell guru Christopher Calapai. thedogwedding.com

The Jets’ Antonio Cromartie hosted Toys for Tots party at Brandon and Hank Freid’s Tender Bar & Grill at the Sanctuary Hotel with teammates Damario Davis, D’Brickashaw Ferguson and OITNB’s Selenis Leyva. sanctuaryhotelnyc.com

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