Manhattan Profiles Magazine

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWISH READER www.ManhattanProfiles.com FEBRUARY 2018

MASTER YOUR HEALTH THROUGH LOVING YOUR BODY

FIX YOUR SMILE ON YOUR LUNCH HOUR

Founder of MilesBuyer.com Eli Dadon on the overabundance of unused frequent flyer miles and credit card reward points

DO YOU HAVE A FORTUNE IN A CURRENCY YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO SPEND?

TURNING PERSONAL TRAGEDY INTO OPPORTUNITY THE ART OF FILMING RED CARPET EVENTS

REAL ESTATE

CONVERTING UNDERDEVELOPED AREAS INTO TRENDY URBAN UTOPIAS

VIOLIN CRAFTSMANSHIP ON THE UPPER WEST SIDE

PINE BUILDERS CORP.

04

I

WWW.MANHATTANPROFILES.COM

I

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWISH READER

I

The magazine for the Jewish reader editor in chief ARIEL TOPF chief business development JOSH WINTER

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

chief commercial officer YISRAEL MEIR SIMON managing editor AVIVA SAPIR assistant managing editors RIFKI ORZECH JESICA BACKAL-MYERS chief designer MATEJA MILADINOVIĆ contributing editors SHOSHANA LEPON DANIELLA LEVY ELISHEVA SOKOLIC how to reach us Advertising 646-470-2368 info@manhattanprofiles.com www.ManhattanProfiles.com

www.ManhattanProfiles.com

MASTER YOUR HEALTH THROUGH LOVING YOUR BODY

FIX YOUR SMILE ON YOUR LUNCH HOUR

Founder of MilesBuyer.com Eli Dadon on the overabundance of unused frequent flyer miles and credit card reward points

DO YOU HAVE A FORTUNE IN A CURRENCY YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO SPEND?

It is with immense excitement that I set out to write my first letter to our readers in New York City.

I fell in love with New York City from the very first time I set foot in it. Almost immediately, I felt an overwhelming desire to become part of its vibrancy, diversity and sophistication. Not only does the city never sleep, it is constantly evolving and re-inventing itself in exciting and surprising ways.

In fact, it is precisely my love for this city that makes me all the more thrilled to be launching the premier issue of Manhattan Profiles magazine.

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE JEWISH READER FEBRUARY 2018

WELCOME TO MANHATTAN PROFILES!

TURNING PERSONAL TRAGEDY INTO OPPORTUNITY THE ART OF FILMING RED CARPET EVENTS

REAL ESTATE

CONVERTING UNDERDEVELOPED AREAS INTO TRENDY URBAN UTOPIAS

VIOLIN CRAFTSMANSHIP ON THE UPPER WEST SIDE

Manhattan Profiles Magazine is published by Bizness Magazine Manhattan Inc. Manhattan Profiles Magazine considers its sources reliable. However, reporting inaccuracies can occur, consequently readers using this information do so at their own risk. Editorial content, articles and interviews may be paid advertising. Manhattan Profiles Magazine does not endorse or recommend any products or professionals. Although persons and companies mentioned herein are believed to be reputable, neither Manhattan Profiles Magazine or its publisher, parent company, nor any of its employees, sales executives or contributors accept any responsibility whatsoever for their activities. We reserve the right to publish in whole or in part all letters received by us. All letters, sent to Manhattan Profiles Magazine will be considered the property of the Magazine. All remarks, suggestions, ideas, creative concepts, graphics, or other information communicated through this publication or otherwise sent to its publisher (together the ‘Submission’) will forever be the exclusive property of Manhattan Profiles Magazine., who will not be required to treat the Submission as confidential, and will not be liable for any use or disclosure of the Submission, and need not provide any compensation or acknowledgement for the Submission. Under no circumstances shall Manhattan Profiles Magazine, or its affiliates, subsidiaries, or related companies and web sites, be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, but not limited to direct, incidental, consequential, indirect or punitive damages), harm, or injury that relate to, arise out of, or result from the use of, or access to, or the inability to use, any of the materials of this publication. All rights are reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher.

Manhattan Profiles focuses on businesses, professionals and organizations in your very own backyard. Our expert columnists connect to the community by providing valuable, interesting and relevant information related to their respective, sometimes unique, fields.

This model has been extremely successful in Israel. For the last seven years, our publications geared to the English-speaking public have become not only a source of informative and enjoyable content, but also an invaluable, go-to directory of reliable professionals in a wide range of fields.

While putting together our first issue of Manhattan Profiles, my staff and I have had the privilege of getting to know some of the amazing people who work in the city and provide you and your family with goods and services that enhance your quality of life.

We look forward to continue building a strong relationship with you and to becoming a valuable part of your lives. I welcome any feedback regarding Manhattan Profiles, both the print and digital editions. Furthermore, if you have goods, services or expertise that you would like to share with the community, please be in touch to find out how you can be featured in the next issue of Manhattan Profiles.

Wishing you a warm winter season!

Ariel Topf

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

05

CONTENTS ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE Lukas Wronski Violin Craftsmanship Gregory Singer Violinist & Conductor Ryan Shemen TeamWork Events Eli Dadon Milesbuyer Jeremy Poupko Masada Reflections Shlomo Weprin Videography Matias Letelier Illusionist & Mentalist Lena Moy-Borgen Theater Enrichment Studios

06 08 09 10

BUSINESS & FINANCE David Friedman Duo Leasing Neil Miller Outsourced Accounting Professional Yuri Kruman Career Consulting Sidney & Mark Weinstock Financial Coordinators

UNIQUE SERVICES 18 19

Rachel Lane Dog Training Robert Samuel The Line Dudes

23

20 21

12 14 16 17

31

44

49

Leigh Hansen Remedy Massage

Eli Karp Hello Living Real Estate Development

Avi Edri Hairdresser & Makeup Artist

HEALTH & WELLNESS Dina Stein Health Coaching Michael Kรถnig Integrated Wellness & Chiropractic Care Dr. Joseph Cosentino BWAY Smiles Betsy Lichtenstein Geriatric Care Manager Tom DeVito Colonic Hydrotherapist Alfred Borrelli Trauma and Addiction Therapy Dr. Jessica Galgano Speech and Communication Ariel Weissberger Music Therapist Dr. Andrew Glass Podiatrist Dr. Greg Ribakove Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute Rick Hirschhaut American Friends of Rambam Medical Center Dr. Bela, Dr. Garry and Diana Levingart Central Park Dentists Beth Steinberg Acupuncturist Debbie Akerman LCSW & Public Speaker

22

REAL ESTATE 24

Marilyn Karpoff Real Estate Broker Moving On Aging In Place

BEAUTY & FASHION

46

26 27

Mirasha Moore Online Fashion Store Carl Goldberg Custom Shirtmaker Carla Dawn Behrle Custom Leather Apparel

48 50 51

28 30 32 33 34 35

54

58

Elliot Rosner Prenups in Business Relationships

Mayan Metzler German Kitchen Center

36

38

39 40 42

LEGAL Nathaniel Muller Multi-lingual Attorney Janice Roven Family Law Vlad Portnoy Preserving Your Legacy

HOME

52 55 56

The Aden Jewish Heritage Museum Hidden Treasure Sarah Grace Embrace Your Space NYC Daniella Levy Author

57 60 62

06

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

Violin Craftsmanship as the Color and Texture of an Artist’s Imagination A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy?

This recipe for life’s pleasures is attributed to Albert Einstein, who was a gifted musician himself. You can’t help thinking that Albert would have felt very much at home at Lukas Violins on the Upper West Side.

L

ukas Wronski, owner of Lukas Violins, was born in Poland to a family with an artistic heritage going back centuries. He began playing the violin when he was only eight years old and then switched to violin craftsmanship at the age of thirteen. Lukas went on to study the profession with masters of the trade in Limanowa, Poznan, and Zakopane, Poland; London, England; and Cremona, Italy. In the eleven years he has lived and worked in Manhattan, Lukas has amassed a loyal clientele, and is fast becoming one of the most respected violinmakers and dealers in the city.

Lukas’s goal is to keep refining his art to the extent that a proud owner of a Lukas violin will have the opportunity to play a violin that is not only beautiful, but is also one that will continue to produce a magnificent sound for many years to come. “I always try to craft instruments that create rich, wonderful sounds with the depth and soul of a piece of art. I draw inspiration from the old Italian masters and create close replicas of their instruments, especially Antonio Stradivari, Giuseppe Guarneri del Gesu, Pietro Guarneri, Carlo Bergonzi, Amatis and others.”

Violin-making combines the fine visual arts with the acoustic arts. Instrument design and construction rely on curved lines and surfaces; the curvature

I always try to craft instruments that create rich, wonderful sounds with the depth and soul of a piece of art.

I

makes it possible for the instrument to be both light and strong. To create a fine violin, the craftsman must have a deep understanding of the raw materials and an instinctive sense of the strengths and weaknesses of each piece of wood. The design, structure and choice of wood all determine the quality of the finished product. Lukas goes to great lengths to select the perfect type of wood for each instrument he creates. It must not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also have optimal weight, strength and flexibility.

The internationally acclaimed musicians among Lukas’s clients affirm that his creations can easily stand shoulder-to-shoulder with instruments created by the Italian masters—with some even insisting they prefer Lukas’s pieces! Lukas has mastered the creation of those unique award-winning designs, yet he never forgets to consider a client’s individual needs. Thanks to his careful personal attention, he has formed many friendships with the like-minded artists who seek out his expertise.

FEBRUARY 2018

Indeed, musicians who appreciate fine craftsmanship will delight in the lovingly handcrafted display pieces and feel secure that they are making a wise investment. Lukas may specialize in custom-made instruments, but he will also expertly restore, appraise and service other violins and bows, or sell the customer something from his wide range of ready-made instruments (including children’s fractional sizes).

Whether you are a beginner or a world-class professional, the search for your perfect violin will end at his door. Moreover, purchases come with certification and appraisal, while almost all options also have a future trade-in guaranteed. Lukas offers every client routine maintenance, sound-post adjustments, and small repairs needed as a result of accidents or inclement weather.

To put it succinctly, Lukas is the Violin Doctor. Whether dealing with one of his handcrafted masterpieces, or a mass produced instrument, Lukas treats every violin he handles like a priceless work of art.

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

Information provided by Lukas Violins www.lukasviolins.com 646-479-7842

07

08

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT Gregory Aryeh Singer Violinist & Conductor Profile Information provided by Gregory Singer As a talented artist and creative businessman, Mr. Singer is an ambassador for cultural growth and change, demonstrating how music can be a powerful tool that can bridge language and cultural barriers.

Through his work as a performer and an educator, through the events that he produces and manages, and as a board member of some of New York’s foremost arts organizations, Mr. Singer is a genuine testament of excellence demonstrated through his love of music and performance.

He is also talented, prolific artist.

His works can be viewed at www.GregorySingerArtist.com.

More on The Manhattan Symphonie can be found at www.manhattansymphonie.com

Journeys of Discovery Through Avenues of Art From the moment Maestro Gregory Singer picks up his violin, the audience feels the palpable energy of the symphony coursing through his veins. The music he and his symphony produce becomes a vehicle which takes both Mr. Singer and his audience on a journey of discovery and fulfillment.

B

orn into a family of accomplished musicians, his mother Rachel L. Singer, is a concert pianist and his father, Jacques Singer, was a renowned musician and conductor, Gregory was destined to follow in his parents' footsteps. From an early age, Gregory demonstrated an innate ability for music, making his musical debut at the age of eleven with the Oregon Symphony and going on to become an accomplished musician, composer, and conductor of his own orchestra. As an homage to his late father’s legacy, Gregory wears his father’s tailcoat in every performance as conductor of his Manhattan Symphonie of New York.

VERSATILE MUSICIAN Gregory’s musical accomplishments are numerous and are the result of hard work and perseverance. As far back as he can remember, his violin has been a constant companion, always by his side as an extension of his soul. Through hard work and intense study at institutions such as Indiana University, Meadowmount

School for Strings, and Juilliard School of Music, Gregory has become, in his own right, an accomplished musician and composer.

He also has had numerous opportunities to work in a variety of fields in the entertainment industry as a studio musician, Broadway show violinist, and composer, creating theatre, movie and television soundtracks, as well as performing widely in classical music performances with many renowned artists.

Maestro Singer has been asked to conduct orchestras all over the world, including Italy, Russia, France, and China. He consistently brings his unique style and personable charm to each performance, and likes to ensure that no two performances are ever the same.

In 2001, he opened Gregory Singer Fine Violins (www.singerviolins.com), on the Upper West Side, earning his store such praise as to be considered the best violin shop in all of New York. By bringing to his violin shop what he brings to his concerts: a love of music full of warmth and charisma and a genuine desire to help people, his store has become much more than just a place to buy a new packet of strings.

Visitors to Gregory Singer Fine Violins rave about the breadth of choice and welcoming atmosphere, but most of all about the way Gregory takes time and care with each customer, going above and beyond to help any visitor with a passion for music.

THE BIRTH OF THE MANHATTAN SYMPHONIE In 2005, Maestro Singer founded the Manhattan Symphonie of New York (www.manhattansymphonie.com). Within a year, Daniel Lucy, from the NY-Tokyo Express marked the symphony as the one to watch, calling the orchestra “some of the finest musicians New York City has raised and nurtured.”

Quickly gaining momentum and increasing global success year after year, the Manhattan Symphonie has had the honor of being invited to play concerts around the world in such iconic music venues as Carnegie Hall, and the Lincoln Center, as well as a 50-city tour across China in five individual tours.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

09

INTERVIEW Ryan Shemen Success with TeamWork

Delivering Nightlife to the People

R

yan Shemen is the one-stop-shop event maestro who makes organizing a function for thousands look as simple as making a cup of coffee. He sets in motion international fundraising efforts for global clients and has organized over a thousand functions to date—from fashion shows and corporate events to weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, and yacht cruises. His company, Success with TeamWork, acts as a marketing platform for events that reach over 10,000 vetted social influencers, allowing the client to get content out on a grand scale using both online and offline media. Ryan and his team shine that bright light on companies and individuals, providing real-time results.

We wanted to know more about the Ryan Shemen-Success with TeamWork experience.

How did you become one of the top nightlife and event consultants in NY? When I launched my business, my goal was to become the Seamless of nightlife: delivering the goods so the client can enjoy every second of their event. I have networked with investors, florists, caterers, graphic designers, photographers, videographers, transportation organizations, entertainers and other service-providers via countless functions over the years. I believe you only get one chance to make a strong impression, so the Success with TeamWork squad will go above and beyond to ensure that every person who attends one of our events leaves with fond memories. We’ve coordinated projects for people of all ages, races, religions and cultures—from a sold-out Barclay Center event with 15,000+ attendees to a private wedding on a yacht. Either you bring the guests or we do!

What kinds of packages do you offer?

We don’t offer any cookie cutter packages.

Every event is truly unique and we customize every aspect of the function. Each client is assigned an event producer; we then strategize

together to organize a game plan. We apply everything we’ve learned from our collective experience, and we assemble the perfect team to put together the event of a lifetime. Naturally, attention to detail is our specialty, and it can be the difference between being written about in the newspapers or getting fired.

Do you enjoy coming up with unique themes and concepts for events?

I love coming up with themes and concepts with patrons. From glow-in-the-dark paint parties, to masquerade singles' functions, to travel excursions—we’ve even sent folks across the globe for mind-blowing experiences!

Our specialty is bringing brands to life. We’ve raised millions of dollars for Memorial Sloan Kettering through events, and worked with businesses like HBO, Cinemax, A M C T h e at r e s , Sony, The Grammy Awards and several additional corporations. Our goal is to turn your dreams and concepts into a reality.

Profile If you want to learn more about Ryan and his team, visit SuccessWithTeamwork.com Call: 619-432-2378 Ryan@SuccessWithTeamwork.com Instagram: #SuccessWithTeamwork Twitter: SuccessWTeamwrk #Snapchat: Sucrezey Facebook + Google + YouTube: Success With Teamwork LinkedIn: Success With Teamwork LLC.

What’s the most extraordinary event you’ve ever done?

The most extraordinary event I’ve ever done was last New Year's eve in Miami. I flew down with clients who are major players in the real-estate and diamond industries—on their private plane! I met several A-list hip-hop stars, like French Montana, Future, Drake, Sean Combs, and The Weeknd. The event took place at a club called LIV in the Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami. Bar totals exceeded one million dollars! Some professional NBA, NHL and MLB players swung by. I met Kevin Hart—one of my favorite comedians in the world—that night. We partied ‘til the sun rose! One of the best nights of my life, hands down.

What was one of the hardest concepts you’ve had to actualize?

The hardest project we were tasked to conceptualize was a Holocaust book event titled “My Grandfather Would Have Shot Me: A Black Woman Discovers Her Family’s Nazi Past.” We had to consider the sensitivities and emotional well-being not only of the author, but of the audience that consisted mostly of elderly Holocaust survivors. We had to coordinate media coverage sensitively, as it was vital that the materials should be presented in an engaging yet compassionate manner.

Who are some artists you really admire?

Matisyahu, Jay Z, Madonna, Elton John, Rihanna and many others who share the truth regardless of the consequences. I greatly admire people who stay true to themselves despite facing adversity. To my mind, these are people to look up to.

Do you ever sleep?

I am very high energy and require very little sleep. I’m the type of person who clocks in every day from the moment I open my eyes ‘til I fall asleep many hours later.

Have you overseen any communal initiatives?

Yes, a wide range of them. For example, we raised funds to fight terrorism by organizing a bowling fundraiser. Donations went directly to a hospital, to soldiers and to technology that will save lives.

Who or what inspires you?

My father is my inspiration and role model.

He is a hardworking head and neck surgeon practicing in Manhattan for over 30 years, and he’s a paragon of excellence, decency and honesty. He does a lot of charitable work, cares for each individual’s well-being and always provides the best quality of care.

One tip for networking?

Create the opportunity rather than waiting for the opportunity to come to you.

10

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

INTERVIEW Eli Dadon MilesBuyer.com

Have You Built Up a Fortune in a Currency You Don’t Know How to Spend?

In a typical year, 650 billion points and miles awarded by credit card and airline companies go unused.

E

nter MilesBuyer.com. The company is the brain child of Eli Dadon, who alongside his team of business experts, has 13 years of experience in the field. Eli has created a way to help the public capitalize on this missed opportunity, and at the same time, has revolutionized the travel industry.

MilesBuyer.com offers two unique services.

Firstly, they assist people with selling their unused miles and reward points at consistent and competitive rates. Secondly, they then use those miles to provide incredible discounts on business and first class travel options, from airline tickets to luxury hotels. Manhattan Profiles spoke to Eli to find out more.

You were born in South Africa. How did you end up in New York?

I grew up in a family that owned and managed various business interests across the world, so we tended to move around a lot. We moved to Israel when I was eight, and then to Los Angeles a few years after that. As a young teen, I saw the movie Wall Street—I remember watching it, seeing the fast-paced epicenter of the Stock Market, and just knowing that was where I wanted to be. After five years in Los Angeles, at the age of sixteen, I moved to New York to study Accounting and Finance and I've never looked back.

What prompted you to get into the air miles business?

From a young age, I was always involved in buying and selling things. My father had an auction house and I remember at the age of twelve, attending his auctions, trying to persuade the attendees that they absolutely needed this piece of jewelry or that antique rug. I recognized then, the need to find a product that I believed was undervalued and

if marketed well would sell at a higher price.

After being exposed to that market, I found a currency that most people didn't even know exists. The air miles industry. Many people, and even companies, are sitting on thousands or tens of thousands of dollars so why not provide them with a way to monetize this?

How is it possible that people would not take advantage of using their points?

If you’re a business or individual who buys airline tickets or makes major credit card purchases on a regular basis, you have probably accrued an overabundance of frequent flyer miles and credit card reward points. Billions of these kinds of rewards expire and go to waste every year, because the people who earned them don’t have the opportunity to take advantage of them. It’s like building up a fortune in a currency you don’t know how to spend.

Even if you have the time and opportunity

to use your miles for travel, the availability of reward flights is limited, and they come with an expiration date. Credit card points also have limitations, and the options you have for spending them may not benefit you. Selling these credit card points gives you the freedom to take advantage of them in your own time and on your own terms.

It couldn’t have been easy to get started.

Did you come up against any challenges along the way? Anything you would do differently in hindsight?

I think that at the beginning of any new venture, your biggest challenge is going to be the budget. When you’re trying to spend as little as possible, you need to make some very tough choices. At the start, and for many years, we relied on word-of-mouth marketing. With the help of a great product and team we managed to grow the business to where it is today. In recent years, hiring the right people and focusing our spending on effective marketing has really helped take our company to the next level.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Make sure to reserve money in your budget for hiring the best people. It seems like a good move when you first start out to save money by hiring cheaper staff. In the end, however, it’s all about the people you are working with.

That’s how we’ve managed to grow our business so successfully on referrals and repeat customers, everyone loves our staff!

Also, make sure you offer outstanding customer service, which is the only way to ensure you get a loyal client base. For example, we offer special benefits to customers who refer friends, family and colleagues to us. It’s so rewarding when a satisfied customer enjoys, and benefits from, the process to such an extent that they are happy to recommend you to their circle. We truly take pride in repeat business, so we love rewarding our customers for their well-placed faith in us.

I understand the premise, but how exactly does one sell their miles?

It’s simple. On MilesBuyer.com there is a quote request form, which allows you to see immediately how much your miles and points are worth. We do have a minimum requirement of 50,000 miles, which helps us guarantee that our rates are as competitive and consistent as possible. Our quotes are valid for 24 hours, which means that although the value of rewards fluctuates over time, your quote is guaranteed—without any tricks or games.

We then use the rewards or miles, which may otherwise have gone to waste, to offer the best deals on luxury travel and accommodation. A typical international business

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

11

Profile Eli Dadon is the founder of MilesBuyer.com. Eli began his professional career at Smith Barney-Citi­group working as part of a team responsible for manag­ing $300 million in assets. He then joined a team under Merrill Lynch’s Private Banking and Investment Group and specialized in hedge fund investing. Subsequently, Eli was a senior associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers’ tax consulting practice.

During his tenure working under the corporate umbrella, Eli founded a digital advertising technology company which was sold to a rival and a global investment company focused on distressed asset acquisitions across Asia.

For more information contact: MilesBuyer.com or 1-877-240-8577

class ticket retail rate would be anywhere from $4,000 to $9,000—with first class rates starting at $6,000 and going upwards of $20,000 for certain airlines and routes. We offer the exact same flights with the world’s best airlines, but with discounts which range from 10% to 60%, saving our clients a fortune. The same is true with accommodations. We typically offer discounts of around 20% for some of the most famous hotels around the globe.

Won’t your clients need a separate travel agent, though?

Not at all. If the booking you’re looking for is available, we can reserve flights and hotel rooms for you immediately; a perk which offers additional savings. We recommend customers use the ‘Book Travel’ page on our website to give us as much detail as possible about the trip they are planning, and let our experts do the rest.

Can you tell us a bit about your Top-Tier Business Accounts Platform?

We are proud to be the consistent choice of prominent companies around the world coming from all business sectors, including a few Fortune 500 ranked companies. The Top-Tier Business Platform is what we offer owners and executives who have significant credit card expenditures. It’s used by companies who consistently earn points every month which they want to liquidate. It’s an elite platform which includes a complimentary ‘spend review meeting’ to discuss your specific needs.

What happens at the meeting?

We use our wealth of experience to create a

targeted strategy for your business going forward.

In some cases, we suggest alternative credit cards which will offer the maximum rewards for your expenditure categories. We make sure that you’re set up for notifications of upcoming promotions and devaluations so that you can be prepared. Anyone with our Top-Tier Platform will have access to the MilesBuyer. com On Demand Corporate Rates Platform, as well as their own dedicated representative for any queries, 24/6.

It looks like you’re set to conquer the travel industry, so what’s next for you?

Currently MilesBuyer.com has offices in New York, Los Angeles, Tel Aviv, Hong Kong and Singapore. The next step is to open in mainland China, organizing flights and tours for business people who are looking to break into that emerging market. The sky’s the limit!

Outside of the travel industry, I am a partner in an investment company focused on emerging markets opportunities. I see tremendous potential to not only make money in these countries, but to also truly make a difference.

Currently, among other things, we are in talks to build a large solar power plant in Malaysia that will lower electricity costs and reduce pollution for a tremendous amount of people.

Billions of these kinds of rewards expire and go to waste every year, because the people who earned them don’t have the opportunity to take advantage of them

12

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

TRAVEL Jeremy Poupko Israel Ambition Tours

Reflections After Masada After my latest Land of Israel excursion with a visiting family, I remove the dust from my hat, sip a glass of wine and begin to write.

W

e are quickly approaching the 70th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel. We are making waves in culture, finance and technology and we are the center of Jewish cuisine, wine, art and academia. But, it’s really history and archaeology that make Israel unique. Tourists visit from all over the world enthralled with the very idea that they are walking the land of their biblical heroes.

Tasty hummus and falafel doesn’t hurt either, I always say.

Here in Israel, the top guidebooks are not only Lonely Planet and Frommer’s but the Bible and Josephus too.

So where should we start?

MASADA Masada is an awesome desert mountain fortress rising above the beautiful, otherworldly landscape of the Dead Sea basin, graced with ruins of a palace built by Herod the Great over 2000 years ago.

In the year 70 CE, Jewish rebels made Masada their refuge, holding out for three long years, surrounded by the full force of Rome’s

legions. And although the remnants of the Roman encampments, siege wall and attack ramp help bring the saga to life, we cannot truly know what it was like for them. We do know however, that these Jews brought the brutal siege to an end with their mass suicide.

Their choices were to either die as free people by their own hand, or to live life as slaves to the Romans.

But that is nowhere near the full story. Once you put boots on the ground around Masada, it becomes clear that we are not doing these people justice by harping on about the story of their death. These people did not come to Masada to die—they came to Masada to LIVE. Ironically, with all the talk of their deaths, almost nowhere else in the world do we find so many remnants of ancient Jewish LIFE. THE SYNAGOGUE One of the structures is clearly communal in purpose, identified as a synagogue, a beit knesset. Fragments of various Bible scrolls were found buried in a corner, probably as a ritual burial, a geniza. These scrolls date to the early first century CE and are treated as part of the Dead Sea Scroll collection. Why would refugees in a desert getaway go to all the trouble of building a synagogue and preserving Bible scrolls for study? It’s very simple, they planned to stay alive and live on as a functioning Jewish community.

THE MIKVAH (RITUAL BATH) When Yigael Yadin, the archaeologist, came to Masada in the 1950s and first laid eyes on a strange, three-pooled plastered bath system carved into rock, he did not know that he had just made the first-ever discovery of an ancient mikvah, a Jewish ritual bath. Hundreds more were subsequently found all over

About the author Rabbi Jeremy Poupko is Director of Israel Ambition Tours and an expert tour guide and tour agent. He lectures extensively, combining Torah, history and archaeology, directs an online forum for in-depth Talmud study and is a part-time rabbi. Jeremy lives in Jerusalem with his wife and children. jeremy@israelambition.com www.israelambition.com

Israel but none compare to the beauty of the first one.

Yadin had never seen a mikvah before, ancient or modern. But he had heard of it and had a hunch. He promptly sent his people back to Jerusalem to find him an expert in the customs of Jewish ritual baths. They found two rabbis from Meah Shearim, Jerusalem whom they brought back to Masada and led up the dusty snake path. (There was no cable car back then.) The rabbis, in their Chassidic garb, jumped into the pits and, after much poking and measuring, announced that this was, indeed, a kosher mikvah!

It is important to note that the purpose of building a mikvah is so that Jewish family life can continue and children can be born.

We see again, that the Jewish rebels clearly came to Masada not to die but to live and create new life.

These are just a couple of the many amazing sites to see at Masada.

Masada has become a symbol of staunch resistance against all odds of the few against the great and powerful. It is a symbol of a people making the ultimate sacrifice for what they believe. And if it is a symbol, maybe after all that’s some kind of victory.

SUBSCRIBE FOR A FULL YEAR

Receive your free copy of Manhattan Profiles Magazine every month.

NO CREDIT CARD REQUIRED! NO STRINGS ATTACHED!

To subscribe for a FREE FULL YEAR go to www.ManhattanProfiles.com/subscribe

FREE

14

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

PHOTO BY AMIR NORMAN

INTERVIEW Shlomo Weprin Shlomotions

A finished video is the result of thousands of specific decisions and trade-offs. It’s an artist’s flair, style and vision that guide those decisions.

It’s what sets you apart.

Filmmaking Guru For creative footage in every frame

W

hat was your inspiration for going into this field?

I grew up discovering that I had an aptitude for creativity and the arts.I drew caricatures at Bar and Bat Mitzvahs; and I picked up many different instruments in high school, namely, the guitar, bass and the keyboard.

I took part in every school play. During my

Production still from Matisyahu narrative feature film

gap year, when I studied in Safed, Israel, I was inspired by the city’s beauty and took over 5000 photos.

I returned to New York to attend NYU for its strong arts program. When I began speaking with film students about their studies, I realized that film production would be the perfect combination of my artistic passions.

I could use my drawing skills for animation, my rhythm for editing, and my creative eye

for shooting video.

During the winter break of freshman year, I returned to Safed and created a ten-minute documentary about the town’s unique spiritual vibe. This documentary helped me gain admission into the NYU Tisch film program, where my passion for film took off.

Tell us about the different aspects of your business.

We specialize in a wide variety of video genres: • Narrative films and documentaries, such as one currently in the works about South African hip-hop spanning a decade.

• Wedding/event videos.

• Promotions for food and nightlife establishments, such as the Monarch Rooftop Lounge next to the Empire State Building and Black Tap Burgers.

• Music videos/live performances featuring artists that include Matisyahu, Oz Noy, and the popular Jewish acapella group, The Y-Studs.

• Corporate videos for major brands and companies, including a Fortune 500 insurance company and Union Station in Washington, D.C. • Red carpet interviews at TV shows or Hollywood movie premieres, filming interviews with celebrities such as Larry David, Scarlett Johansson, Bradley Cooper, Adam Sandler and Denzel Washington.

How important do you think it is for a videographer to have an artistic flair?

Very important. A finished video is the result of thousands of specific decisions and tradeoffs. It’s an artist’s flair, style and vision that guide those decisions. It’s what sets you apart.

Is there a specific videographer who influenced your work?

It wasn’t a fellow videographer, but rather

I

Filming Larry David, Curb Your Enthusiasm

former Chief Rabbi of England, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. He was prevented from returning to England for three days because of a volcanic ash incident over Iceland. I grabbed the opportunity to film interviews with him for a Jewish media site, JInsider.

When discussing the idea of finding one's life purpose, he stated very simply, “When what you want to do in life is aligned with what needs to be done, that’s when you know you’ve found your life's purpose.” At the time, I was an in-house videographer for a shoe company.

Inspired by Rabbi Sacks, I left my position and turned independent.

What should we look for in a videographer?

In addition to the videographer’s work, it’s important to choose someone who can find the best resources, meet deadlines and is easy to work with. Recently, I was recommended for a project for a Fortune 500 insurance company. They needed two film crews in London one day, and in Colorado the next day. This left just a few days for a major editing job to combine over 25 interviews. It was a project that their in-house video company deemed impossible. A former colleague told the Marketing Director, “Shlomo will do whatever it takes and won’t sleep until the job is done.”

What statement do you want to make with your work?

My film work and my connection to Judaism are related. I try to make the world a more positive place by creating art that conveys a deeper message. Film is a powerful medium that has the ability to help people overcome adversity and strengthen connections with God and their fellow man.

How are you different from other videographers?

FEBRUARY 2018

I make sure to find the best footage for every second and never take shortcuts. For example, when it comes to wedding reels, many competitors have a formula they reuse. They select key moments and plug it into their formula, creating a video that is artistic—but out of sequence.

I take the more time-consuming approach of recreating the day. I search out the day’s best moments in the order they occurred. After watching my 4-5 minute reels my clients often tell me they feel as if they are reliving the wedding. Even when I hire a crew to help with a project, I strive for perfection and ultimately remain responsible for the quality of the final product.

What skills are required for filming weddings without intruding on the couple’s privacy?

I want to capture those moments that truly portray the love the couple have for each other. I want the highlight reel and the full video to be as cinematic and entertaining as possible. In contrast to other wedding videographers, my career actually began with documentaries—not weddings.

I have spent years perfecting my style, which requires the split-second shooting of candid moments and minimum interaction with my subjects. These skills are crucial for capturing great moments without being obtrusive.

Is there one project you have worked on that stands out?

I was hired to film a wedding at the Fontainebleau in Miami. I needed a crew of nine people (and a crane). The client hired a 40-piece orchestra and the room partitions were made of giant blocks of ice. It was definitely one of the most exceptional events I’ve ever filmed.

Are you currently working on an exciting project?

I am finishing production on my first narrative feature-film with formerly Chassidic, Reggae Superstar Matisyahu. It’s a scripted visual accompaniment to his newest album, “Undercurrent.” We filmed most of it on tour with a limited budget and did a lot of improvisation. The years of honing my skills for capturing candid moments paid off in miraculous ways. The film is a very unique endeavor that has never been accomplished in quite this way, making it my most exciting project to date.

What part of your job are you most passionate about?

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

15

My most satisfying projects are those that challenge me to break out of my comfort zone. I really love the motivation I get from the production process.

I love creative brainstorming opportunities and adding my unique style and vision to any project.

What is your long-term vision for your business?

My long-term vision is to keep making videos that present people and their message in the most professional and entertaining way possible. With my passion projects I aim to not only entertain, but to inspire and make the world a more positive and spiritual place.

I was recommended for a project for a Fortune 500 insurance company. They needed two film crews in London one day and in Colorado the next day.

This left just a few days for a major editing job to combine over 25 interviews.

It was a project that their in-house video company deemed impossible.

Profile Shlomo Weprin, a graduate of the NYU Tisch film school, is the CEO of Shlomotions Videography on the Lower East Side: A highend video production company producing a range of creative content.

Contact: 973-960-6078 , shlomotions@yahoo.com www.shlomotions.com

16

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

INTERVIEW Matias Letelier Fun Corporate Magic

How Did He Do That?!

Chilean-American Illusionist Matias Letelier Works His Magic on Diverse New York Audiences

M

atias Letelier started learning to perform magic tricks when he was 14 years old, but never in his wildest dreams did he think he’d pursue it as a career. His life took a complete turn when his uncle, famous magician Jorge Barriga, died in a tragic accident. Matias inherited his uncle’s collection of books on magic and promptly decided to follow in Jorge's footsteps. At the time, he was pursuing a degree in business, and decided to fuse his knowledge of marketing with his love of magic. He started an entertainment business in his native Chile, and within a few short years of performing at parties, schools, clubs and events, he became one of the nation’s most popular magicians.

Then he met Marlana, a lovely American woman, who was studying in Chile. When it was time for her to return to the States, Matias followed. While Marlana pursued her studies, Matias started his career again from scratch. And he rose to the challenge spectacularly: within five years he had performed more than 1,000 shows and received several awards. Today, he performs at a wide range of events, from family parties to large corporate affairs, peppering his astonishing illusions and mentalist demonstrations with a charming banter. His innate sensitivity to cultural differences and fluent English, Spanish and Portuguese make him the unique, go-to entertainer for diverse audiences.

We asked him about his trade and his background.

What is it about magic and mentalist demonstrations that people find so captivating?

People have always been fascinated with the idea of possessing special powers, and the desire to experience them. An illusionist will fulfill this desire in a way that helps people process deeper life issues on a subconscious level. For example, freeing myself from a straightjacket echoes the idea of escaping from something that keeps us from moving forward. A card that rises from the middle of the deck represents rising above everything and accomplishing something. Finally, finding a hidden card recalls the idea of being lost

Profile ​ atias Letelier is a bilingual ​illusionist and M mentalist and a founder of Fun Corporate Magic.

Phone: (646) 476-9830 Email: contact@funcorporatemagic.com Website: www.funcorporatemagic.com Facebook: MagicianMatias Instagram: @IllusionistMatias Youtube: Magician Matias and found. People see themselves and their lives represented in a magic show.

What’s your favorite performance style?

I particularly enjoy mentalism and mind reading demonstrations. I’m fascinated by neuroscience and the study of the mind, and how mentalists can use that knowledge to create amazing mind demonstrations.

How have you adapted your show to meet the unique needs of the Jewish community?

I’ve done many shows for the Jewish community, for Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Purim, Hanukkah, Sukkot, Rosh Hashanah, etc. I’m respectful of the traditions and restrictions and I try to show sensitivity to individual re-

quests regarding, for example, the type of music I use during my act. I’ve created tricks that are totally clean, appropriate for all ages but still thoroughly enjoyable.

Tell us how you link magic to corporate marketing.

My degree is in business and I have an MBA in Marketing; I create experiences that promote my clients—let’s call it experiential marketing. I focus on their products or services in order to increase their market presence.

This is an effective way to engage potential customers at, say, a trade show or convention.

What kind of corporations have you done this for?

I’ve done programs for large companies such as IBM, CNN, KPMG, AT&T, CISCO, BMW and American Express, to name a few. And because I’m fluent in both Spanish and English, I’ve worked with companies that have many Hispanic employees. I speak their language and understand their culture.

Tell us about your awards.

I’ve received several awards including Best of New York and Best Comedy Magician. But the biggest award is the love my audience shows me.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your career, and what’s the most challenging?

I love working with people and watching them smile and be amazed. The challenge is to continue to develop new routines that will keep bringing wonder to people, while keeping it clean, engaging and entertaining.

Do you give away your secrets?

Let’s put it this way: the magic world has a door that keeps the people out. However, that door is not locked. Anyone with the determination, patience and perseverance to learn the secrets of our art, can enter.

What is some of the feedback you've received from your shows?

Here are a few meaningful quotes: “He engaged every person in the room from age 5 to 70.” “The best part was the amount of audience participation!” “Matias put on an outstanding show! He arrived ahead of time to prepare his ‘stage’ and brought everything he needed with him.” “He had 20 kids, ages 2-8, mesmerized for 45 minutes.” “He had everyone laughing, when they weren’t gasping in astonishment.” “Matias engages his audience with his tricks and leaves you wondering...

HOW DID HE DO THAT?” If your uncle Jorge could see you now, how do you think he’d react?

I think he would smile and pay attention to my performance to make sure it’s the best it can be—he was always criticizing other magicians when they were wrong!

I

FEBRUARY 2018

INTERVIEW Lena Moy-Borgen Play On! Studios

Let Your Little Star Shine and Play On!

P

lay On! Studios, a theater enrichment studio for ages 4-14, offers after-school and Saturday classes, summer and holiday camps and audition prep programs. Their mission is to make music and theater relevant for today’s children through innovative teaching methods. We asked Lena about her studio and the benefits gained from studying theater.

What inspired you to enter this field?

I’ve always loved theater. Growing up, I joined wonderful acting programs after school and during the summer, which gave serious training for people of all skill levels. My two best friends from Shakespeare camp ended up as a doctor and a lawyer, but they both agree that performing in plays helped shape them as people and furthered them in their careers.

Please describe your after-school classes.

We offer a wide variety of classes: Creative Drama (grades pre-k-3): This is our most popular class, emphasizing the creativity, enjoyment and personal growth of each child. Through drama games, movement, music, and vocal exercises, kids explore self-expression and gain confidence. A final showcase in front of family and friends gives them the opportunity to experience the most exciting aspect of theater: Performance!

Theater Lab (grades 3-6): Our original Seriously Serious, Seriously Fun class encourages young actors to develop their own artistic point of view while acquiring essential skills. Students focus on improvisation, scene study and many different acting styles in a fun theatrical exploration. A final show allows students to show off their new skills.

Musical Theater Performance (grades 3-8): Perform a full musical in a professional theater! Classes incorporate character building, vocal performance and movement. Our

productions and training are of the highest quality… and so is the fun! Space is limited to ensure that every child has a chance to shine.

Do you run your classes from a studio? All our classes (and some of our summer camps) take place at the Church of St. Paul and St. Andrew at 86th Street and Broadway. It’s a com-

Profile Lena Moy-Borgen has been teaching drama and music since 1997. She has a BFA from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and boasts diverse teaching experience, including clowning and self-defense in addition to theater. Lena is also a cabaret artist who has performed at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Don’t Tell Mama’s, the Duplex and more. Today, she is the director of Play On! Studios.

Contact: lena@playonstudios.com, 347-709-4149, www.playonstudios.com

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

17

munity-based place, with a preschool on the first floor and other children’s classes which use the space as well. We also have camps at Ballet Hispanico – and even downtown!

I understand that you provide one-day and one-week theater camps during school vacation. What are your goals for each of these different programs?

Our one-day camps are inspired by different Broadway, Disney or Movie musicals. Campers explore related scenes, songs and dances and, of course, play lots of drama games! It’s a day packed with theater and fun.

Our one-week camps are jam-packed with acting and music games, arts and crafts, and theater. Our teaching artists lead campers through the full experience of rehearsing and putting on a full production in front of family and friends.

Both programs are great for kids with all levels of experience, including beginners.

Please describe the training you provide to prepare children for music and drama auditions.

We offer some great programs for auditions, including a boot camp over the summer for preparing monologues for high school and college auditions, a musical theater revue to help kids prepare musical theater selections and private coaching.

Regardless of talent, some students are more introverted than others. How do you ensure that every kid gets a chance to shine?

Our top priority is to give each child a chance to shine. No one is ever left in the background, playing a tree. Each child has lines or solos so that they can work standing confidently center stage! There are also lots of group moments so that those who are more introverted can get used to performing with the support of their peers.

Do any of the children continue with their theater studies to a higher level?

Many of our students are currently in performing arts high schools, such as LaGuardia High School for Performing Arts, the Professional Performing Arts School (PPAS) and Talent Unlimited.

Do you have theater experts or teaching artists who work with you?

We have an amazing team of teachers each of whom specializes in their chosen areas.

Each one also has vast experience in performing as well as teaching. Many of our younger teaching assistants are actually graduates of our programs.

What advice do you have for people who want to pursue acting or teaching music as a career?

Take as many classes as you can now! You learn how to teach from your teachers without even realizing it. So many of the things I do now I gleaned from my own teachers.

18

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

BUSINESS & FINANCE

I

INTERVIEW David Friedman Duo Leasing

To Buy or to Lease?

Don't Drive Yourself Crazy!

W

hat’s your background in the automobile industry?

Cars were a big deal when I grew up. My father, Solomon Friedman, started Duo Leasing in 1986, and I joined the business in 1989. Subsequently, my son Willie joined the company in 2010. You could say we live and breathe cars.

How does an independent leasing specialist differ from a dealership?

We do all the preliminary work over the phone or by email; you don’t need to come in person to our office to get the “real“ price.

We also deliver your car right to your door.

Furthermore, suppose you walk into a Honda dealership. The guy on the sales floor would never tell you “From what you’re saying, I think a Toyota will work better for you.”

Perhaps there’s an option like a blind spot monitor included. If the dealer doesn’t have a car with that, they will downplay the benefit of that option, unlike an independent leasing company that has access to inventory at any dealership in the tri-state area and beyond.

When you use a company like Duo Leasing, we’ll tell you the pros and cons of each car, based on your needs.

What skills do you need to succeed in this business?

Listening! That is key to great customer service. Get to know what your client needs most: whether they need immediate delivery, the lowest possible price, or a specific color…

Clients will normally have a “top item” on their list. Our job is to make sure we get them what they want.

What benefit do you bring your customers?

It’s not the final sticker price on the car that frustrates people; it’s the lack of clarity when a salesman quotes all kinds of figures during the transaction. Taking the time to review all options and terms, while making sugges-

tions based on the client’s needs makes all the difference. Clients want to know where they stand.

What do you find challenging about the car leasing industry?

Technology is changing at a fast pace.

We need to keep up with a younger, more tech-savvy, clientele. We need to do the research in order to advise the client on, for example, which gadgets are offered on new cars and how cars will interact with new devices.

In general, who would be better off leasing a car than buying one?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to that question. If you anticipate high mileage, leasing is the way to go, as certain cars will depreciate at a faster pace than others and the leasing company takes the brunt of the depreciation.

What kind of practical feedback do you get?

Whether my customers are carpool parents or commuters, I will receive valuable real-world feedback. They might mention that this particular car has a terrible blind spot, or that the rear seat is much smaller than the older version of the same car. This information is crucial for helping future clients.

Do clients call you knowing what they want or do they consult with you from the outset?

Most people know the type of car they want: sedan, SUV, minivan, etc. They tend to ask which model makes the most sense for them. I will often know a client’s circumstances, and can provide the insight that, for instance, their elderly father’s wheel chair won’t fit in the trunk of the car they are considering, or the step into the vehicle may be too high for him to manage.

Have you seen any industry changes in the last decade?

I have seen a major shift away from used cars. There are two reasons for this: Number one, the cost of leasing has dropped, making it a viable option. The prem-

ise is that you don’t really know what you’re getting with a used car.

And number two, in the last few years, great new features such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitors, surround-view cameras and more, are offered on even the less expensive cars. Leasing gives you the opportunity to take advantage of new technologies as they come up.

Can you describe a typical workday?

We sell or lease cars every day, but there is always something that makes the day unique.

Recently, I got a call from a client in Riverdale. Her son’s car (a 10-year-old spare family car) broke down in Cape Cod. She had all kinds of questions for me: should they get the car fixed there or bring it back to New York? if they fix it there, how much should it cost? can they rely on the information the mechanic there is giving them?

We got on it right away. We did some research and decided the best course of action was for them to have the car towed back to NY. It turned out to be a minor repair so we actually helped the customer save thousands of dollars, even after the cost of towing!

Do you recommend any car safety products?

I like blind spot monitors and the lane departure warning system. Should you get distracted or doze off and drift out of your lane, the system can save your life.

How does your service differ from industry standards?

Our accurate quoting policy and total honesty means there are no last-minute surprises. We won’t play the classic bait and switch game. Our customers get what they were promised!

Contact info phone number: 718-782-0500 e-mail: david@duoleasing.com

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

19

INTERVIEW Neil Miller Neil Miller Consulting

Trusted Financial Advisor for Companies at Any Stage of Growth Neil Miller Consulting provides businesses with a full range of accounting services

W

hat was the inspiration for starting your own consulting business?

While I was working for large corporations, I would meet small-business owners who needed my expertise but could not hire a full-time accountant or controller. I realized that this was a viable market opportunity, and also a chance to help people where they really needed it. I find it extremely rewarding to help small companies reach their potential. From my perspective, running my own business gives me the freedom to choose the people I work with, while being the sole driving force for achieving my own professional goals.

What services do you offer?

We offer the full range of accounting services—everything from setting up books, preparation of financial statements and budgets, to forensic accounting and tax return filings. We also help startups decide which organizational structure is optimum and help file those documents as well.

Do you have a specific area of expertise?

I specialize in helping companies grow.

Whether that involves evaluating financial statements for accuracy and missed opportunities, or helping with day-to-day or monthly accounting processes, I provide whatever a business needs to get to the next level.

What size companies do you work with?

Any company that doesn’t need a full-time accountant or controller would benefit from our outsourced accounting services. We serve virtually all sectors, including manufacturing, technology, service companies and not-for-profits. Our clients are startups, and small-to-mid-sized businesses at nearly every stage of growth.

Who makes up your staff?

I have partnered with an experienced tax professional. Additionally, we have a team of freelance bookkeepers and lower-level professionals who can provide temporary or

as-needed services to businesses with limited needs and budgets.

How do you differentiate yourself from other accounting professionals in the industry?

First and most importantly, I take great pride in providing exceptional client service and in being responsive to my clients’ needs.

I answer my own phone, so there aren’t multiple layers of people to get through before you reach me. Also, I do most of the work myself, so my clients don’t have to worry about lesser-qualified associates doing their work.

Finally, over thirty-five years of experience with companies of all kinds sets me apart from most accountants working today.

Why would a company choose an outsourced accounting service over an in-house accountant?

Outsourced accounting is the most cost-ef-

Profile Neil Miller is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Internal Auditor with an MBA in Finance. He worked for Fortune 100 companies, start-ups, and organizations in various stages of growth. Most recently, he has been an outsourced accounting consultant and controller for small to mid-sized companies. His current clients are in a wide range of industries, including non-profit organizations.

Neil Miller can be reached at 917-974-6651, nmiller@neilmillerconsulting.com or through his website www.neilmillerconsulting.com.

fective choice a company can make. No need to pay for employee benefits or payroll taxes.

Our message is, “You only get the services you need and only when you need them.”

What do you enjoy most about the comprehensive service you offer?

My clients think of me as a trusted advisor who gives impartial advice, not only with regard to accounting issues, but also other business concerns. I am very grateful to be able to help companies reach growth milestones successfully and take their businesses to the next level and beyond.

How can a small business benefit from having a budget?

A company that doesn’t have a budget is essentially “flying blind.” Without comparing incoming revenue against expenses, a business cannot know if it can afford major purchases, new hires or any significant expansion. Conversely, a budget can indicate that an organization needs to cut costs. It also enables a business to set measurable goals and assign responsibility and accountability.

What is the single most important piece of advice for start-ups?

Set up your accounting efficiently at the company’s inception. This will save time, money, and potential heartache in the future.

Please explain forensic accounting and its application.

Forensic accounting is the detailed review of accounting records in order to track the flow of money from one source to another.

This might apply if there is a dispute between business partners regarding cash received and spent. When couples are going through a divorce, one spouse hiding money from the other can be an issue. Forensic accounting techniques will enable the accountant to find out where the money went, and convey this essential information to attorneys involved in litigation.

Are there any measures a corporation can take to prevent fraud and embezzlement rather than reacting after it has transpired?

It’s essential to establish proper internal controls at the outset. By delegating and segregating employee duties, a company can avoid conflicts. Most importantly, there should be a system of adequate checks and balances to ensure that there isn't only one employee with sole access to company assets.

What is the biggest challenge working in this industry?

My biggest challenge is reaching individuals and businesses and making them aware of the benefits of outsourced accounting and how an outsourced consultant can help them reach their goals.

20

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

BUSINESS & FINANCE

I

INTERVIEW Yuri Kruman CEO Master the Talk Career Consulting

Yuri Kruman: Walking the Walk and Mastering the Talk Gain clarity, find your dream job and get unstuck while forging forward with a straight-talking sensei

W

hat motivated you to enter this field of work?

From a young age I developed a sense for good story-telling and a talent for listening. Since that time, I’ve coached family, friends, and even perfect strangers, in the art of telling a great story to their audiences. Throughout my career, I’ve coached and consulted Fortune 500 and top startup execs on everything from HR, product management, law compliance and finance operations, to fundraising and Biz Dev. I’ve combined my proven formula for successful career changes with direct insight gained from hiring talent for startups.

What is the goal of career coaching?

The goal is to help you find your life mission, create your individual action plan, and help you pursue it. We increase your value— you can request a higher wage and you will get promoted faster. Ultimately, we help you find fulfillment and success in your work and life.

Can you describe the process of how you work with clients?

First, we make sure it’s a great match between client and coach. After enrollment, we go through our proven 4-Pillar Methodology to establish the client’s life mission, values, desired outcomes and role, as well as identify their “founding stories” and any negative scripts preventing self-actualization. We then map the 4 Pillars to a title and industry, do careful company research, reach out to decision makers directly, and prepare the client thoroughly for calls, meetings and interviews. We will then negotiate each offer and select the best one for their dream job.

The client can then choose to stay with us for ongoing support to accelerate promotion and pay increases, as well as coaching towards substantive success in their new role.

We help clients with anything from mindset and language adjustments to life mission analysis. We implement company research and outreach, transform resumes and LinkedIn profiles and conduct thorough interview preparation. Additionally, we offer negotiation, new manager and executive training, and corporate team building.

What skills do you draw upon to help a client succeed?

My fortes are language and psychology. I draw upon both to help clients formulate their story for each audience, tell it confidently, and become part of a new “club” in their intended industry without connections or prior experience.

Is career coaching only for someone who is looking for a job or deciding what profession to go into?

Career coaching is for every stage of one’s career, because there’s no such thing as “taking a break” from the job market in the current economy, as stable or as lucrative as your current job may seem. Everyone is expected to have a career portfolio of some sort and should always be looking to grow as a manager, leader or even team member. In fact, if you start looking for a career coach only once your job is in danger

Profile Yuri Kruman is a New York-based executive, career and life coach, and professional strategist for Fortune 500 and tech startup executives. As a Member of the Forbes Career Council and CEO / Founder of Master the Talk Career Consulting, he has helped hundreds of Millennial and Gen X execs in finance, law, consulting, marketing, healthcare and other industries to find their life's mission, gain clarity, find their dream job, and increase their salary by an average of 20%. He is also a soughtafter speaker, startup advisor, podcast guest and widely published author (Forbes, Inc., Fast Co., Mashable, Time and other top publications and blogs).

Contact Yuri at yuri@masterthetalk.com, 347-415-0265 or www.masterthetalk.com

or you’re out (as far too many passive people do), it means you’re already behind. Start a conversation today. There is always much more you could be doing to accelerate your career and to reach your goals much faster.

What background do you need to become a career coach?

Career coaching is currently unregulated (meaning no certification is required for practitioners), but the truth is, certification has limited value, because what really matters is experience in a world where industries are changing so quickly.

What do you find the most rewarding about your work?

That moment when a client gains clarity with herself, “clicks” with her life 's mission, changes her posture and voice and forges confidently ahead to get results. This is the magic of what I do and why I love it.

Please describe one successful experience where you made a great impact on a client's career development.

A VP of Sales and Biz Dev in Pharma found me on LinkedIn. She was just let go and was desperate to get back to work ASAP. After only a couple of weeks in the program, she knew her exact direction, had an action plan and was reaching out to decision makers at healthcare startups in her area. Within three months, she had three offers from top VC-backed startups at the top of their game, which we negotiated up by 20%, with better benefits and perks. She went with the one that made the best sense for her lifestyle and family and is happy in her new role—all while working on a side business to bring her extra revenue.

What advice do you have for people who want to pursue career coaching as a profession?

Find your niche, get experience by finding clients locally and in your existing networks.

Collect testimonials, create high-ticket programs, get exposure by writing for top publications, do workshops and speaking engagements. Finally, write a book. It's that easy! Seriously, though, always continue learning and get yourself a coach to to guide you through the crazy journey of becoming an entrepreneur.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

21

INTERVIEW Mark and Sidney Weinstock CLTC Financial Coordinators

Individually Tailored Financial Services From Generation to Generation

N

o two clients are alike and not all financial service proposals should be the same either.

Mark and Sidney Weinstock believe that a sound financial plan is one that is custom tailored to the needs of each individual client.

How did you get involved in financial services?

Sidney: Unexpectedly. My family had, and still has, a thriving kosher meat business.

In the late 80’s, the family was offered the opportunity to partner with Maximum Life, an insurance company just starting out. My father, uncle, and their partner, thought that I might be a good fit to manage that project. In order to familiarize myself with the industry, I enrolled in a full year program at the College of Insurance. It was a whole new world for me.

Murray Rosen, a senior professor, taught some of my favorite classes and we really connected.

Murray figured that between my networking abilities and his expertise, we could make a great team. We worked together for a while, targeting the most complex estate planning cases I could find; with a professor at your side, nothing is too complex. You tend to learn more in real-world settings and I was no exception. When Murray decided to retire, he referred me to his friends at Lee, Nolan & Koroghlian, LLC. For the last 30 years, I have often thought about how grateful I am to Mr. Rosen for his guidance and for connecting me to my current firm.

What areas do you specialize in?

Mark: You could say we are financial service coordinators. We specialize in bridging the gap

It's amazing to see 2nd and 3rd generations of a client's family coming in to plan for their families

Profile Sidney and Mark Weinstock have almost 40 years of combined experience in helping clients plan for multi-generational financially secure futures.

Contact: Office 646-867-8310 sweinstock@financialguide.com markweinstock@financialguide.com

between laymen and industry professionals.

Attorneys, CPAs and investment advisors, while highly trained, don't have the time to prioritize the issues of every individual client.

Our job is to make sure the client's needs are met.

As a financial advisor you help clients reduce and defer taxes, and you advise them regarding insurance and estate planning.

Is there one particular area you prefer dealing with?

Sidney: Coming from a family business, I strongly identify with the concerns of business owners. People would like their business to continue for generations and are focused on the issues that will enable that. For example, what if only some of the children are involved in the business? Can the business provide for the founders in their retirement? Because of my early years with Murray, I learned to relish challenging estate-planning concepts while coordinating with lawyers and accountants to optimize the process.

Please explain your relationship as an associate with the financial group Lee, Nolan

and Koroghlian, LLC. Is there a benefit to working under this arrangement?

Sidney: Lee, Nolan & Koroghlian, LLC is a full-service financial services organization. Most of the associates here are given the space to specialize in their area of preference. I’ve been with them for 30 years and Mark has been there for almost eight. The great value for us, and our clients, is the support the firm provides us with. We have specialists available to offer second opinions at no extra charge.

New concepts and trends are analyzed so we can give people the most current, upto-date advice.

How do you forge a personal dynamic with your clients?

Mark: People often call our office, out of the blue, and say something like, “I’m a friend of ABC who just did XYZ with you. Sign me up for the same.” Without knowing the friend’s specifics, financials and aspirations, how can we just do the same thing? We live in a world of instant downloads but that doesn’t mean we can skip the whole discussion.

Transparency is a fundamental principle in financial services. How do you achieve this?

Sidney: We are upfront with each person as to how we are paid. Simply put, we do not charge for our time. During a long-term relationship, there are often solutions that the client feels are appropriate. These include investments, retirement plans, insurances or annuities, and we are compensated by whichever suitable company has been selected to establish that contract.

What do you find the most satisfying about your job?

Sidney: I don’t know of a more satisfying feeling than seeing a sense of relief and a look of confidence replace a concerned frown. Everyone's challenges are different. It's very rewarding when, after really getting to know a client, we present them with a completely customized plan that fully addresses their needs and concerns.

I also love how our work brings several generations of one family together, especially now that I'm working with my own son! It's amazing to see 2nd and 3rd generations of a client's family coming in to plan for their families. Our business is growing in the most wonderful way: from generation to generation.

22 I M A N H A T T A N P R O F I L E S I U N I Q U E S E R V I C E S I

INTERVIEW Rachel Lane Leash and Learn

The Trusted Dog-Training Expert Who Takes Your Dog to Charm School Helping dogs and their families live together happily ever after.

R

achel Lane helps clients overcome any challenges they might be facing with their dogs. Rachel assists puppies who are new to their home, older dogs who need to learn some manners, dogs who bark at people, and more. Her goal? Rachel wants your dog to be a happy, active member of your family. We went to chat with Rachel to find out how she can help frazzled dog owners.

What makes Leash and Learn unique?

The manner in which I help you achieve your goals. Every dog and every family is different, so the process is 100% personalized.

Instead of doing programs or classes where certain behaviors are taught, I offer customized packages where you define the goals and what you want your dog to learn. Each dog and family gets the precise guidance they need and nobody wastes time and money on things that are not important to them.

Another thing that makes Leash and Learn unique is that I come to your home for all training. This helps your dog progress faster, and eliminates the need for transportation.

What character traits are required in order to succeed as a dog trainer?

To be a successful dog trainer, you must be honest and trustworthy. You need to be passionate, understanding, kind, and supportive. You must also be a good problem-solver, and have an unwavering willingness to learn.

And most importantly, a good dog trainer has the ability to not only help dogs, but to also help the dog’s owners.

Do you have dog training certification?

My certifications are: • Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed • Certificate in Applied Animal Behavior, University of Washington • Certified Trick Dog Instructor • AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator • American Safety and Health Institute • Pet First Aid Certified

There are no federal or state requirements needed to call yourself a dog trainer. Qualifications show that not only does a trainer have the knowledge and skills necessary to train your dog, but also that they are dedicated to staying up-to-date on the most recent dog training science by attending classes, workshops and seminars.

Do you use any particular animal training method?

I am a positive reinforcement-based trainer.

I teach dogs what we would like them to do, and reward those behaviors.

By teaching dogs what we want them to do, we create active and engaged learners.

We do not coerce them into desired behavior by threatening them with something bad; rather, we train them to cooperate and make choices we would like to see repeated. ​What types of problems does this type of training fix?

Most of them. Whether you have a young puppy biting your toes, a dog who barks at the door, or a dog who lunges at people or other dogs, this training works.

How do you keep abreast of up-to-date animal behavior science?

Because I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, I am required to complete 36 hours of continuing education units every three years.

I do this by attending workshops, classes, and seminars every few months.

Profile Rachel Lane is the owner of Leash and Learn, a full-service dog training company in Manhattan. She began working with dogs professionally eight years ago and six years ago opened Leash and Learn. www.leashandlearnnyc.com 978.270.8984, leashandlearn@gmail.com

How do you develop a relationship with both the dog and its owner?

I listen to the clients—what their goals are, where they’re struggling, and where things are going well. Then I observe to the dog, finding out where he’s struggling, when he’s having fun, what he likes to do. By listening to what both the owner and the dog are telling me, I am able to bridge the gap between them and help them live happier lives together.

Can you describe different types of problems and how you deal with them?

I get a lot of calls from people who just got a puppy and want to get off to a great start. They want to teach the puppy to eliminate in an appropriate area, to stop chewing furniture and nipping, to be happy in their crate, and to learn basic obedience such as “Sit!” and “Come!”

Some people call me to remedy behaviors they find stressful, embarrassing, frustrating, or dangerous. Such as dogs who bark and lunge, dogs who cannot be left home alone, dogs who don’t like to go for walks, dogs who pull on the leash, and dogs who are not house broken.

When I work with a client there are three steps. One, assess the situation. Two, identify the issue. And three, address the problem and develop a training plan.

Does every puppy need to be trained?

Yes. The level of training that each puppy completes is decided by the owner, but every puppy should be trained. Puppyhood is a very important time; it shapes your dog for the rest of its life. By completing socialization and training while young, they become happy and well-adjusted. This will help to prevent unwanted and potentially dangerous behaviors as adult dogs.

Do dog owners need to maintain the training in between sessions?

The more time owners spend practicing with their dogs, the faster the dogs will progress between sessions. The key to a welltrained dog is practice, patience, and consistency, so the more consistent the practice the faster an owner will see results.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

23

INTERVIEW Robert Samuel Same Ole Line Dudes

Never Fomo – Call a Line Dude!

Whatever the event or product, Line Dudes show up and do the work so you don’t have to, freeing you up for more important things like...life. Robert Samuel filled us in on what's worth waiting for in NYC.

W

here on earth did you come up with this fabulous idea?

I was fired from my job at AT&T so I posted a Craigslist ad offering to wait for someone’s iPhone 5 to make a quick $100. The guy who hired me finished his Apple order online but paid me anyway for my time and encouraged me to sell my spot in the line. A few months later I gave it a name: Same Ole Line Dudes.

After how many lines does a dude become a professional line sitter?

After your first assignment, you’re a professional! This isn’t rocket science. We aim for great customer service and punctuality.

What do you do while you’re sitting or standing in line?

We are lovers of all streaming services, Netflix, Hulu, Pandora, Spotify, etc. We also work hard at promoting our service to potential clients waiting in the line. We explain that we are waiting in line in place of our client, so there’s no drama when he arrives.

Can you tell us about some unusual requests?

Hiring a line sitter to get food samples or other free stuff has always struck me as odd.

But I have actually been paid to wait for a Star Wars poster and a free Oreo spread from Cronut creator Dominique Ansel. I have also been hired to wait in line for Pre-K registration and senior citizen home registration.

Why does the musical Hamilton get its own tab on your website?

We've been doing Hamilton for over two years and it's actually our most popular request. The more information we can provide online, the less questions prospective clients will ask when they call. Resale prices are heavily inflated; people might think the show is outside their reach. No! It’s easy to get tickets. You just have to put in the time on the sidewalk and that’s what we do.

What’s the most challenging aspect of this business?

Finding public bathrooms.  What product or service had the longest waiting time?

Our record is 96 hours during the final days of Hamilton, starring Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., and Phillipa Soo, leading up to their final 7/9 show. But every year, it’s the new iPhone model with a 48-72 hour wait.

How does it work? One line sitter per reservation?

It varies, depending on what the wait is for.

For example, anything that’s on sale is on a strict 1:1 client to line sitter ratio because it may sell out. If it’s an experience, like an exhibit or concert, we may do a 2:1 or, for restaurants, a 4:1, because the food isn’t running out any time soon. It was trial and error for a while, until we figured out what works.

Profile Same Ole Line Dudes is New York’s premier team of professional line sitters who will reduce your wait for anything this great city has to offer.

With over 8 million residents, lines for anything in New York can be long! Add over 56 million tourists each year and you’re in for an even longer wait!

Email: info@sameolelinedudes.com Web: www.sameolelinedudes.com Twitter/Instagram: @sold_inc Facebook/Yelp: Same Ole Line Dudes “We wait for your wants!”

What are the legalities? Can someone behind you in line contest your right to be there?

No, there are no legal issues. Task Rabbit took care of that. They can contest but it’s no different than a family member holding you a spot—except we get paid! We’ve only had to abort a job once in five years of business because some rabid Phish fans threatened physical violence and intimidated our client into canceling.

Might someone request a specific line dude a second time?

Yes, they might. And we encourage that, especially if they’re a great tipper! If it’s a customer with a repeat request, the sitter they’ve used before knows the ins and outs of what to expect on line, so the customer won’t have to explain each time where to stand and what to do. We actually have a client with a specific line sitter reserved for his monthly municipal parking reservation.

How does it work if the client doesn’t receive the product or service they asked for?

In some cases, we offer a 40% discount on a future wait for the amount of hours they had originally booked for. This is provided they took our advice and followed instructions.

This is especially true if we are regulars on that line and we know what works.

Where do you see your business in five years? Will we see Disneyland Line Dudes?

We’ve been courted for franchise opportunities in major cities here in the US and abroad.

Right now we are weighing our options. New York has been very good to us these past five years but there’s always room to expand.

And, for the record, Disneyland wouldn’t let a third-party service provider affect their FASTPASS product, so that’s not happening any time soon.

What has contributed to your success?

Line Dudes’ success primarily came from media exposure of Cronut Delivery and has spread via New York local print, radio and TV interviews.

Is there a limit to how long you would wait in line?

No. A true professional doesn't throw out random time limits. If there’s a line, we’ll make the time.

Any funny moments to share?

We can laugh at it now, but when the Park Avenue Armory put on a production of Macbeth in 2014, there was a gentleman behind us who was quite intrigued by line-sitting.

After some weird questions, he asked if there were any white people in this line of work and asked for their contact details. We ignored him for the rest of the wait. You have to laugh!

Master Your Health HOW DINA STEIN HELPS CLIENTS LET GO OF TOXICITY AND EMBRACE WELLNESS

INTERVIEW Dina Stein Health and Wellness Coach I expert

D

ina Stein is a health and wellness coach with more than a decade of experience with various aspects of the industry. She’s worked as a teacher, a special-ed therapist, a facilitator, a nutritionist and a health coach. She is currently considered one of the top influencers and leaders for the health-conscious of New York City. Dina is the founder of Desserts After Dark, a healthy dessert service that delivers guilt-free, delicious treats made from fruit, nuts, plant-based protein, spices and natural unrefined sugar. Her goal is to empower individuals, communities and companies to develop a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.

We interviewed Dina to find out more about her practice and philosophy about health.

What is the role of a health and wellness coach?

A health and wellness coach provides the tools and resources for clients to face their challenges, overcome their fears, beat their addictions and pursue their

dreams. Instead of viewing diet and exercise as restrictions, I encourage clients to view them as a renewal.

When you release the “toxic” old habits and substances which no longer serve your potential and growth, you can make room for new, fresh and expansive energy!

Do you think health and wellness coaching bridges the gap between traditional healthcare and the behavioral changes necessary to sustain good habits?

Yes! In traditional health care we are taught to seek treatment when we’re already ill; in health and wellness coaching, we use food as fuel to prevent illness and ailment. Now, more than ever, people are realizing that you don’t need to hit rock bottom to put your own health and happiness first.

As a wellness coach, what techniques do you use to change people’s attitudes to exercising and diet?

Instead of focusing on restricting calories, worrying about weight gain and obsessing over hours spent at the gym, I encourage my clients to focus on using natural,

...our mindset begins to shift.

We begin to honor ourselves and select only the highest quality nourishment to put in our bodies.

m

nutrient-dense ingredients, selecting a custom workout (moving your body in a way you love), and incorporating healthy indulgences as a means to sustain a good level of power, energy and focus for long-term results. Many people trying to eat better will be “good” and “eat well” most of the time. But as soon as something happens outside of their control, or they have a moment of weakness, they may binge as a form of self-punishment. By contrast, when we embrace food as nourishment and fuel, our mindset begins to shift. We begin to honor ourselves and select only the highest quality nourishment to put into our bodies. Healthy foods, positive thoughts and movement from a place of love become a reward rather than a punishment.

I encourage my clients to eat out of love rather than fear. When you act out of fear, you attract what you fear the most. So, for example, if you want to eat well because you’re scared of getting sick or gaining weight, you’re likely to find yourself struggling with precisely those things. When you pursue a healthy lifestyle because you love yourself and your body and believe they deserve to be treated well, you are on the right path to mastering your health.

How do you combine your roles as a health and wellness coach and nutritionist?

A nutritionist provides clients with a meal plan and alternative healthy approaches, while a health and wellness coach helps clients implement the plan.

Health coaching empowers you to say “no” to toxicity—in the form of sugar, chemicals and preservatives, as well as toxic relationships and environmental restrictions. I invite clients to shape their destinies by selecting only quality “non-toxic sources” for physical and emotional nourishment. I’m there to encourage my clients, help push them past their obstacles and achieve their goals and, ultimately, help them redefine and improve the quality of their entire lives.

How do you help your clients have a healthy relationship with food?

How we feed and treat our bodies is a direct reflection

of how we feel about ourselves. The best way to heal your relationship with food is to start by becoming more conscious of how and why you eat the way you do. There’s one simple question that can help you turn everything around: “Am I eating out of love or fear?” If the answer is love—keep going. If the answer is fear, a health coach will help you shift your attitude and provide a clean, fun lifestyle program that will yield long-term results.

What do you enjoy most about being a health and wellness coach?

Helping my clients transform their lives and succeed!

Often when I meet new clients I realize that they have settled for less than what they deserve and less than what they think they can achieve. Once my clients acquire the simple, yet vital, life-tools that will help them tap into their power and own their passions—it’s incredible how quickly they achieve results! Being part of the journey in transforming everyday experiences into an extraordinary life with optimized health, vitality and energy is both magical and incredibly rewarding.

Let's make 2018 the best year of our lives!

For private coaching, meal plans, detox program consultations and group seminars, or to learn more about exciting updates in the health and wellness industry, contact Dina Stein at (718) 663-1801 www.instagram.com/healthbydina

xx, Dina

26

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

INTERVIEW Michael König Chiropractor

Where Back Pain is Banished and Wellbeing is Welcomed

M

ichael König, Ph.D., D.C., is a seasoned chiropractor with 26 years experience and is the owner of Integrated Wellness/Integral Chiropractic NYC, a holistic health care center in midtown Manhattan, where he offers state-of-the-art chiropractic care as well as personalized, nutritional and health evaluation services. A native of Germany, he has lived in New York City for most of his life.

We interviewed Dr. König about his practice.

What motivated you to get into integrated medicine and general wellness?

I became a chiropractor because I wasn’t satisfied with my previous profession as a geophysicist. I was introduced to the topics of nutrition and health as a chiropractic patient, and became passionate about the field. I then joined, and subsequently took over, my predecessor’s practice.

What kind of person needs ‘adjusting’ and might do it on a regular basis?

Anyone experiencing mechanical pain (i.e., pain caused by the aberrant function of joints in the body — typically exemplified by lower-back and neck pain but potentially associated with any joint with disturbed biomechanical function) is a prime candidate for chiropractic care. Our bodies are constantly exposed to physical stresses inherent in the activities of daily living, and we can benefit from periodic check-ups involving the body’s physical structure and its function.

What kind of diagnostic testing do you do during an initial consultation?

The type of testing I rely on most heavily in identifying and diagnosing my patients’ complaints is Applied Kinesiology muscle testing.

I have found it to be a reliable and accurate clinical tool. Once identified, a patient’s condition can be properly and effectively treated.

I also use other means of assessment such as physical examination and, occasionally, diagnostic imaging.

What is the Impulse iQ technology?

The term ‘Impulse iQ’ refers to a technologically sophisticated and scientifically validated hand-held chiropractic adjusting instrument. It delivers mechanical thrusts in the form of rapid impulses, simulating the ‘adjustment’ chiropractors traditionally administer by hand. It has the ability to monitor

Profile Michael König, Ph.D., D.C., received his doctorate in chiropractic from Logan College of Chiropractic in 1991. He has been in clinical practice since 1992 and is licensed in the States of New York and New Jersey. In caring for his patients, he offers the best service he is capable of and for this reason seeks out innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in an effort to improve the quality and effectiveness of his care. Dr. König had a previous career as a geophysicist, working both in industry and academe. Dr. Konig embraced the value of physical exercise early on in his life and, inspired by Frank Shorter’s win in the 1972 Olympic Marathon, took up long-distance running, completing over 45 marathons between 1973 and 2009 — most of them in New York City. He is now an avid cyclist.

Contact Dr. Konig via his website: www.IntegratedWellnessNYC.com or 212-684-2121, drmknyc@gmail.com the body’s response to treatment and can adapt to this response in real time.

What is the Pain Neutralization Technique?

‘Pain Neutralization Technique’ is a specific diagnostic and treatment approach developed and taught by Dr. Stephen Kaufman of Denver, CO. I use it as a treatment in addition to, or instead of, chiropractic care, depending on the condition of the patient. It is a powerful clinical approach aimed at identifying and eliminating pain felt by the patient at specific points, and it represents a very versatile and powerful therapeutic intervention. The elimination of pain is an important aspect of the healing process.

What is a HIVAMAT device and how does it help patients?

The HIVAMAT device is another clinical ‘tool’ in my ‘toolbox.’ It is a unique modality focused on enhancing lymphatic flow. The stimulation of lymphatic flow is an important aspect of tissue healing, especially in the case of acute injuries, and the use of HIVAMAT speeds up the healing process for a wide range of conditions involving both bone and soft tissue. HIVAMAT is widely used in the professional and collegiate sports arenas for the treatment of acute injuries. In addition to effectively dealing with acute trauma it can also be successfully employed for chronic conditions.

What challenges do you face working in this field and what do you find the most rewarding?

The greatest challenge for me as a healthcare practitioner is the proper identification of a patient’s health issues. To me this is, unquestionably, the key to a successful clinical outcome. My greatest reward is the positive response my patients report regarding their treatment. Fortunately, this happens daily.

How do you help patients stick to the outof-office protocol you prescribe?

From the outset, I deal with my patients as individuals who are committed to taking an active part in, and thus responsibility for, their health and wellbeing. Consequently, I ask them to take on the challenge of self-monitoring. I see my role as that of a health coach—I outline the strategy and the actions to take but they are the ones who must do the work.

How do you decide when it’s time to stop treatment?

The answer is straightforward: when the issue a patient is facing is fully resolved, my work is done. My clinical evaluation has consistently and reliably enabled me to closely monitor my patients’ response to treatment.

Can you accommodate pregnant women, patients with disabilities, and children?

Yes, I can, and you can find more details on the Q & A page of my website.

Can anyone ask for a phone consultation with you to see if the treatments you offer are right for them?

Yes, I offer prospective new patients a brief phone consultation at no charge and without obligation as a way of exploring whether I am the right practitioner to address their health concerns.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

27

INTERVIEW Dr. Joseph Cosentino BWAY Smiles

From Shy to Shine: How Orthodontic Treatment Can Bring out the Best in Anyone

D

r. Cosentino, what inspired you to enter orthodontics?

I have always been a visually-driven person. I love art and sculpture, but I also love science and I wanted to find a career that integrated both passions. Art is all about form, function and esthetics and, in a roundabout way, so is orthodontics. When you look at a patient’s before and after pictures, the transformation is usually visually striking. A beautiful smile radiates so much confidence; it’s like a work of art!

What are the most common reasons people need orthodontic treatment?

Patients will usually self-refer with crooked teeth or an over or under bite. Other indications you might need orthodontic treatment are pronounced mouth breathing, clenching or grinding your teeth, the inability to comfortably close your lips, a “clicking” jaw, and unintentional inner cheek biting.

Do you encourage people to have orthodontic treatment for esthetic reasons?

Crooked teeth or “bad bites” are rarely just an esthetic issue. There is usually an underlying cause that if not treated orthodontically can lead to more severe issues, including jaw pain and loss of teeth. This is something that is crucial for both adults and children. A parent should never dismiss their child’s crooked tooth or overbite as “cute” or something “they’ll grow out of”. Early intervention is vital to avoid bigger problems.

What interventions do you offer?

We offer all types of braces, from the conventional metal brackets and wires to the newer “clear” braces like Invisalign, and permanent retainers post-treatment. We also offer orthopedic appliances and gear to correct bite issues.

These are used to reposition the jaws for better dental health and to give a more balanced facial esthetic. We aim to stay up to date with trends so we can offer the best products on the market.

Can you tell us more about Invisalign and how they differ from conventional braces?

Invisalign is one of the best advancements in the field of orthodontic appliances in recent years. The Invisalign system is clear and smooth, easier to fit, more comfortable to wear,

and more esthetically pleasing. The aligners are removable and aren’t worn at mealtimes.

Invisalign is more effective than conventional braces for treating open bite problems in adults, certain types of expansion issues, and for treating patients with narrow mouths.

In general, how long does treatment take to straighten teeth?

The average time is 12 to 18 months, but there are several factors that determine the exact treatment duration: the patient’s age, the severity of the problem, and the patient’s ability to maintain their appliances and comply with wearing a retainer post-treatment for as long as necessary.

Can crooked teeth correct themselves over time?

It is extremely rare that crooked teeth can correct themselves without orthodontic intervention because crooked teeth usually indicate

Profile Joseph Cosentino, D.D.S, received his degree in Dental Surgery and his Certificate in Orthodontics from Columbia University where he is an active member of the Orthodontic Alumni Association.

Dr. Cosentino can be reached at BWAY Smiles, 1995 Broadway, Suite 205 212-877-5577, dr.cosentino@gmail.com www.cosentinoortho.com

a more severe, underlying issue that won’t “fix” itself.

When do you recommend children start with treatment?

We recommend that a child have an orthodontic evaluation at age six or seven, although, depending on the problem, active treatment won’t start until somewhere between eight and twelve. If your child experiences early or late baby teeth loss, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting and mouth breathing, it’s definitely time for a visit to the orthodontist.

Can someone ever be too old for orthodontic treatment?

Absolutely not. I have a patient right now who is 83! If someone practices excellent dental care and hygiene, there is no reason they can’t keep their own teeth well into their 80s and beyond.

How do you go about creating a comprehensive treatment plan?

First, we talk to the patient to assess their concerns. We do a thorough investigation that includes photos, x-rays and digital scans. The digital model allows us to evaluate issues in fine detail and then formulate the best course of action.

What questions should a patient ask an orthodontist before treatment?

First, they should ask for a clear explanation of their orthodontic issues and why they need to be corrected: What are the options for treatment, including all pros and cons of each one?

What is the duration of treatment? What is the maintenance protocol for appliances? What are the expected results? What is the cost?

What is required to maintain dental hygiene with braces?

Brush and floss three times a day. If you have brackets, brush a little longer to make sure no food particles are left behind. Clean any removable hardware every single day. Stick to your appointment schedule for bracket tightening, elastic changes and hardware refitting.

What is the cost of orthodontic treatment?

It depends on what’s needed but usually between $4,000 – $10,000. The fee includes everything: imaging, hardware, and office visits for the full length of the treatment. We also offer interest-free payment plans, and we facilitate patients' reimbursement if they have insurance coverage.

What do you find most rewarding and most challenging about orthodontics?

The most rewarding thing is watching patients who pre-treatment lacked confidence, blossom afterwards! Seeing huge, happy, healthy smiles is amazing! The most challenging aspect involves non-compliant patients who expect results regardless and parents who are not supportive of their child’s treatment.

28

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

INTERVIEW Betsy Lichtenstein MBA, CMC Aging With Dignity I expert

Helping Seniors Age with Dignity Advocating for the elderly to support independence

G

etting old is hard. Planning for your old age is even harder.

Despite what plans you might have put in place, few are truly prepared for what lies ahead.

Whether you are a single adult, an elderly couple, the adult child of an elderly parent, a faraway caregiver, or a disabled individual, there is a professional who is ready to help create a road map for your later years. The service can reinforce the support system you have in place, provide you with the tools and resources for aging well, and help you in a crisis.

Betsy Lichtenstein is the point person when navigating complex situations such as hospitalizations, falls, moving from or to a nursing or assisted living facility, addressing chronic health challenges, cognitive loss, offering resources for legal and financial planning in later years, and much more.

Her ultimate goal is to provide clients with the necessary support to be self-sufficient and independent for as long as possible. This necessity speaks for itself but we spoke to Betsy for more.

What is the role of a Geriatric Care Manager/Aging Life Care Professional™?

Geriatric care management is a holistic effort to provide counsel and support to seniors and their loved ones, empowering them to cope with the challenges of aging. Aging Life Care Professionals™ are there to support clients and to be a trustworthy advocate in

Profile Betsy Lichtenstein is a Geriatric Care Manager/Aging Life Care Professional™ and founder of the care management company, Aging With Dignity. An Advanced Professional Member of the Aging Life Care Association™, she received her certification as a Care Manager Certified (CMC) from the National Academy of Certified Care Managers (NACCM). She also has a certificate in Geriatric Care Management from the Brookdale Center for Healthy Aging at Hunter College (CUNY), a B.A. from Boston University in Psychology and French Literature, and an MBA in International Marketing from Baruch College (CUNY). Betsy has also had training in Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care from the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP).

Betsy uses her creative talents as a trained singer, music teacher, accomplished gardener, arts aficionado, expert cook, and knowledge as a lifelong New Yorker to help bring joy and connection to her clients. She uses these tools to develop a customized plan of care for each client.

For further Info, please contact Betsy Lichtenstein at betsy@agingwithdignityny.com or visit her website at www.agingwithdignityny.com.

times of crisis. Geriatric care managers lift the burden from members of the caregiving community, especially those who may live far away or lead busy lives, and provide assurance that there is someone nearby looking out for the best interests of their loved ones and who can take action in the case of an emergency.

What motivated you to become involved in caring for aging adults and persons with disabilities?

Many years ago, I was asked to help an elderly Holocaust survivor open her mail a few times a week, as her closest family lived in another state and overseas. This woman captivated me: I was inspired by her life story, her resilience in the face of significant loss, and her playful humor despite the challenges in her life. When I discovered she was in the hospital overnight and had no one to advocate for her there, I was happy to offer my assistance. Once she was discharged, she found herself sent home with a dense packet of complicated follow-up recommendations, which she was not equipped to understand.

I realized that, as a compromised senior, she didn’t have sufficient support at home to keep her safe and also to help her navigate the complex health care system. Once I realized this was something I could train for and practice professionally, I was driven to help more people like her.

What are the benefits that a Geriatric Care Manager can provide?

We help families take advantage of services, programs and entitlements that may benefit the client. A geriatric care manager can help select housing or residential options, facilitate communication with doctors, empower clients to engage in social, recreational or cultural activities that enrich their quality of life. We refer clients to, or consult with, lawyers and other professionals as necessary.

We monitor clients at home and recommend technologies and modifications that might keep them safe, watch for any changes in their condition or potential risks of exploitation or abuse, and coordinate care such as crisis management.

When is it time to bring in an Aging Life Care Professional™?

There are many warning signs that a loved one may be in need of assistance. These may include an inability to properly engage in daily self-care activities such as personal hygiene, dressing, feeding oneself, maintaining continence and transferring, going from seating to standing or getting in and out of bed. If any impairment is noted, in activities such as basic communication skills, transportation,

I

for example driving or using public transportation, meal preparation, shopping, housework, managing medications, and managing personal finances, these may also be important signs that a greater level of assistance is needed.

What is your personal approach as a Geriatric Care Manager?

My main goal is to identify experiences that bring my clients joy. By staying physically, mentally, and socially engaged, they may retain better cognitive function, remain healthy, and live independently.

Whether it’s playing bridge, visiting museums, attending shows, doing art projects or going to the movies, I identify programs that make these activities more accessible. I encourage engagement with the social and cultural spheres of society, as isolation can have detrimental effects on a person’s mind, heart, and soul. I urge people to use assistive mobility devices to retain their independence and safety. Using wheelchairs, canes, walkers or other devices is not a sign of weakness, but a mark of strength that allows them to maintain a level of control in their lives. I want my clients to take advantage of the city just outside their front door; enabling people's mobility can open up the world to them.

The idea is to meet clients where they are, to acknowledge that as they have aged, they can no longer do the same things they used to do. However, it is very important to refrain from doing everything for them, instead it is better to do tasks with them. It is important to respect the client’s autonomy, and I encourage them to make their preferences and ideas known when coming up with a plan. I also rely heavily on input from others in the caregiving community, who can provide history and context for the client, while sharing their concerns.

Do you have special talents that you use to connect with the elderly?

Music is definitely a powerful tool in connecting with the elderly; it reawakens their cognitive and emotional centers and creates meaningful experiences. I have classical voice training and sing with a chorus. I love singing with and to my clients, and I have an extensive musical lexicon from the 1920s and onwards (most of my clients can’t believe all the lyrics I know!) that I access to develop playlists that may have emotional significance to them. In general, I have a keen ear for figuring out the musical tastes of my clients and love to adapt to their preferences.

Additionally, I think that food is another way in which I can connect with my clients.

FEBRUARY 2018

Whether it’s playing bridge, visiting museums, attending shows, gardening, doing art projects or going to the movies, I identify programs that make these activities more accessible and doable for those with challenged abilities.

I love to identify my clients’ food preferences and curate menus that cater to their tastes and eating abilities; I can also pass on this information to home health aides and caregivers.

I love gardening and have an extensive knowledge of plants and flowers. I’m happy to give mini-tours through beautiful, local parks and gardens. As a lover of the arts and a native New Yorker, I find it exciting to recommend shows, concerts, and cultural experiences that cater to my clients’ preferences.

How often do you report to the client’s family about their well-being?

I always report back to a client’s family after I have spent time with their loved one and provide frequent feedback to the caregiving community. If there is an emergency, I

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

29

make sure that the designated care partners are notified ASAP. I generally take their cues on communication frequency and on how to contact them in case of an emergency.Depending on the situation I will text, call, or email the client’s family.

How can families address the cost of Geriatric Care Management?

I make an effort to be mindful and sensitive to the financial burden this service places on a client and their caregiving community; I always look for opportunities to lessen this burden wherever possible, through avenues such as entitlements, resources, government subsidies, long term care insurance, etc.

Caregivers have often told me that the peace of mind they have, knowing that their loved one is in very good hands, is priceless.

How do you manage to match a client’s life history, interests and hobbies with activities that meet their current needs?

Those living with memory loss need specialized care. Part of the intake process includes an interview to learn more about the clients’ life histories, passions, hobbies and interests. I also identify any past interests and sources of joy, as mentioned above with music, for example, that may have been sidelined due to their condition. I aim to match clients with activities that meet their socialization, emotional and spiritual needs, and I refer them to available classes, activities and volunteer opportunities. I work with third-party agencies to refer companions who can accompany them to cultural activities, restaurants, museums and other activities.

In New York City, I can recommend many local programs designed for those living with memory loss.

What do you find the most challenging and rewarding about your profession?

I find it challenging to respect a client's choice to maintain their status quo, despite being shown the potential risks to their health and safety. It can be heartbreaking to realize that certain actions could have prevented or lowered the risk of a significant health crisis from which the client can never rebound.

Observing the real-time benefits of my work may be the most rewarding aspect of my profession. I am so grateful to be an advocate in times of crisis because it’s imperative to have an advocate and a voice when you most need one, regardless of your financial situation. I am also thankful to be there for the families; if caregivers, especially adult children, live far away or lead busy lives. I know that having me there is a great comfort to them. I think of my clients as family—and I try to advocate for them as if they were my own.

30

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

INTERVIEW Tom DeVito Vitality NYC

Restart Your System

T

om DeVito discovered his calling while seeking an antidote to his own ailments: a seizure disorder, for which he took medication for over 11 years, as well as severe allergies that impaired his quality of life. He started reading up on alternative health practices, specifically food combining and juicing and gravity colon hydrotherapy, a natural method for cleansing the bowels. Soon after implementing some of these procedures into his life, Tom began to notice a positive change in his health and a rise in his energy level.

We interviewed Tommy to find out more about his profession and health philosophy.

So what exactly is gravity colon hydrotherapy?

Gravity colon hydrotherapy introduces a gentle water flow, powered by gravity, into the rectum with the intention of dissolving and removing gaseous waste from the colon. Each session lasts 45 minutes to an hour. I believe that wellbeing improves when the body doesn’t have to over-manage waste products.

Define your term, “Independently Healthy.”

Independently Healthy is about living without depending on drugs or the medical establishment. It means knowing how to maintain your own health and vitality.

There’s a peace of mind that comes with that knowledge.

I believe that wellbeing improves when the body doesn’t have to over-manage waste products.

Colon therapy is a pretty intimate therapy; how do you put your clients at ease?

After almost 20 years as a colon therapist, I’ve learned how important it is to help folks relax. In general, keeping a light, non-clinical attitude seems to work well.

We are courteous, professional and we take the time to repeatedly reassure the client during their treatment. Once a person gets a few minutes into the session, they’re often surprised at how easy the experience really is.

Explain your formula for health and longevity.

In a sentence: three meals in—three bowel movements out. We encourage our clients to eat a diet of whole foods, avoid processed foods, drink fresh vegetable juice daily, follow a plant-based diet as much as possible, and practice food combining. It’s vital for good health and digestion.

We also advise our clients to get regular exercise. Movement is important; this is especially true once we cross over into middle age. Muscle tone should improve with regular exercise.

Should a patient always check with their doctor before calling you?

A client in good health who isn’t on medication and isn’t pregnant, need not confer with the doctor.

If a person lost a kidney to disease, the surviving kidney might not be able to handle the bloodstream after treatment. They’re advised to ascertain that the one kidney is doing double duty.

Otherwise, treatments aren’t advisable.

People suffering from arterial disease, heart patients, depending on type of cardiac disease or history of heart attack, people who have suffered from aneurisms, strokes, etc., should consult with their doctor.

Is the nutrition advisory service part and parcel of colon therapy?

That’s a great question. Some folks don’t make dietary changes, others do. We try to encourage folks to pay attention to proper food combining. We suggest eating plantbased foods and decreasing dairy, meats, flour, chicken, processed food etc. A person who follows our advice will begin the detoxification process simply by abstaining

Profile Tom serves clients of all ages with various health conditions at Vitality NYC, his detox studio in Manhattan. He has 19 years’ experience, a sense of humor, and a passion for helping clients become “independently healthy.”

Contact Tom on: 917-796-2430 or tdevitox@gmail.com.

from, or decreasing, consumption of the aforementioned foods. The cleansing diet acts like soap and the colonic rinses away the old waste. Someone who continues to eat the standard american diet full of fat, salt and additives, will need to cleanse their bowels more than people who eat more naturally.

How do you ensure the safety of your clients?

Our collective knowledge and experience is the most important component of our safe practices. Even though our approach to diet might seem extreme to some, we suggest simple changes which should be implemented slowly. We believe in personally guiding our clients every little step of the way on their journey to a state of health, vibrancy and wellbeing.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

31

HEALTH Leigh Hansen BA. LMT Remedy Massage

Remedy Massage: An Oasis of Health on the Upper West Side Many people think of massage as a luxury. The professional massage therapists at Remedy Massage see it as an integral part of healthcare

M

assage therapy has been shown to effectively relieve physical and emotional discomfort in patients suffering from a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, fibromyalgia, mental illness, and cancer. By releasing restrictions in connective tissue, aiding the circulatory and lymphatic systems, lowering blood pressure and promoting endorphin production, massage therapy can reduce stress, ease pain, and rejuvenate aching knotted muscles.

The team at Remedy Massage enjoys working on the Upper West Side and oftentimes they get to work with entire families—from pregnant mothers to teenagers suffering from injuries or exam stress, to grandparents trying to stay active and limber.

Prenatal and postpartum support: Pregnancy is a challenging time for women, especially for first-time mothers who have never experienced these dramatic changes in their bodies before. The hormonal shifts, weight gain, and strain on the muscles and ligaments can take their toll on the body. Lower back pain, pain in the pelvic bones, and sciatica are common pregnancy complaints.

Massage can help ease these discomforts.

Recovering from the birth can be no less of a challenge, and massage can aid recovery and help relieve the tension of adjusting to life with a small baby at home. The team at Remedy Massage is committed to help ease a new mother’s journey into parenthood, and offer their caregivers—partners, spouses and new grandparents—some much-needed support as well.

Injury relief: Any injury, no matter how minor, can be a shock to the system. Aside from the acute damage to our bodies, having an injury makes us hold ourselves and

About the Author For over 15 years, Leigh Hansen has brought pain relief, stress reduction, and other benefits of massage to a wide variety of people including injured athletes, highly stressed executives, individuals recovering from cancer, and those dealing with the effects of chronic diseases such as Parkinson's and MS. Leigh has a BA in Dance from NYU and a degree in Massage Therapy from the The Swedish Institute. She was a certified Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis trainer and is a professional dancer. In 2002 she started her private massage therapy practice and in 2006 she founded Remedy Massage Therapy in NYC. 917-558-0228, info@remedymassage.com www.remedymassage.com

use our bodies differently; these changes can put a lot of strain on our muscles and joints. Massage can help stimulate circulation around the injury, which promotes healing, and provides relief from the pain caused by the injury.

Stress relief: Our bodies have a wonderful mechanism for keeping us safe when we’re in danger—commonly known as the “fight-orflight response.” The problem is, our bodies are not meant to stay in that mode for extended periods. When we suffer from long-term stress, the physiological manifestations of stress take their toll on our bodies—causing headaches, aching muscles, digestive discomfort, insomnia, and greater susceptibility to illnesss. Massage can help address both the symptoms and the cause, providing physical relief while reducing the client’s stress levels.

The therapists at Remedy Massage are all New York State licensed and highly experienced; many of them have been practicing massage for over 15 years. Remedy Massage was created to be a calm, welcoming oasis where clients can take a break from the chaos of bustling Manhattan and enjoy the many benefits of massage therapy confident that they are in good hands.

32

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS Alfred Borrelli Licensed Professional Therapist

Treating Trauma and Addiction with Humanity and Professionalism

P

eople struggling with mental health issues often don’t know where to turn for a solution.

Whether you are trying to overcome trauma, fight addiction, seek relief from mood disorders or confront the stress of marital tensions, there are so many treatment options, it’s hard to know which will be right for you. Some patients either go through several therapists before finding one whose approach is suitable for them, or give up in the process. When you’re struggling with mental health it can take a colossal effort to simply pick up the phone and book an appointment; let alone walk into a stranger’s office and reveal your most vulnerable self.

One thing about psychotherapist Alfred Borrelli that all his patients know, is that he cares. A seasoned professional with five decades of experience, he’s a therapist who teaches therapists: Mr. Borelli served on the faculty of NY Medical College, taught psychotherapy and psychology to psychiatrists at UMDNJ (University of Medicine & Dentistry) and Bergen Regional Medical Center, and counseled psychology students from Columbia University and Hunter College as Vocational Rehabilitation Division Head in the Psychology Department at NYMC. He’s also the author of The Match: Academic/Applied Psychology and the Chemical Dependence Field (Full Court Press, 2017), a textbook for mental health professionals about the treatment of chemical dependency and other mental health problems.

His membership in the American Psychotherapy Association (APA) is as a Fellow—the highest status they confer. He has presented at national and international conferences and on TV regarding chemical dependence, assessment and treatment. For example, he was the guest expert on the Montel Williams Show for the Hollywood Child Actors & Drug Abuse segment following the death of actor River Phoenix. In addition to graduate-level training in psychology and his experience working as a clinical psychologist, he is a licensed professional counselor in NJ and a licensed mental health counselor in NY. Alfred began his career in the late 1960’s as

Profile Information provided by Alfred Borelli

Alfred Borelli is a licensed professional therapist with 50 years of experience, specializing in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR therapy, and addictions counseling.

He can be reached at 201-947-7353 or www.alfredborrelli-emdraddictions.com a clinical psychologist and clinical director at an inpatient chemical dependence program.

The program had a patient population of 250, all of whom spent an intensive 12 to 18 months in the program before fully reentering society. Unsatisfied with the inpatient therapeutic community model that existed at the program, Alfred adapted it to reflect a more humane and effective approach, and his model was adopted by other programs around the country.

Aside from his expertise in addiction, Alfred specializes in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy.

EMDR is a relatively new, groundbreaking approach that was developed to treat PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), but can also treat lesser traumas of historic abuse incidents and everyday anxiety. EMDR utilizes eye movements or other bilateral stimulation to help the patient’s brain process traumatic memories. Its effectiveness is

believed to be connected to the biological mechanisms involved in REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. During this process, the patient is able to transform his emotional responses to the memory in a remarkably short amount of time: studies have shown that an overwhelming percentage of cases of PTSD can be completely cured in as little as three 90-minute sessions. EMDR is recognized as a highly effective form of treatment for trauma and other disturbing experiences by organizations such as the APA, the World Health Organization and the Department of Defense. Alfred is a certified EMDR practitioner and full member of EMDRIA (International Association) and achieves excellent results with his patients using this approach.

In addition to EMDR, Alfred offers a wide range of approaches to help his patients thrive including: classic psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family and marital counseling, and clinical testing and evaluation.

While he may sometimes recommend supplementing the treatment he offers with chemical therapy to address severe levels of addiction, Alfred prefers drug-free approaches for lesser levels of addiction and symptomatology whenever possible.

Alfred’s practice also includes case interventions with affect disorders and learning disorders. He counsels individuals, couples and families as well as CEOs and other corporate personnel, regarding peer and self-report issues. “The therapeutic sessions allow them a safe place to not only examine their personal issues,” says Alfred, “but also to reflect on their business ideas in a completely confidential environment. CEOs and other managers may have concerns about exposing their ideas to their peers for fear that they might adopt them and pose competition—don’t need to worry. Everything that is discussed in the office remains strictly confidential.”

While many psychotherapists and psychiatrists use answering services to let their patients contact them indirectly, Alfred makes himself available 24 hours a day by phone.

He explains, “I believe a therapist needs to be available to his patients when they are having difficulties, not only during office hours.”

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

33

HEALTH Dr. Jessica Galgano Open Lines Speech and Communication PLLC

Is Your Child Talking Enough?

Identifying and responding to speech and language delays

L

anguage and communication are an integral part of our lives.

We use our language skills—understanding, speaking, reading, and writing—every single day to share our needs, wants, thoughts, and ideas with others. Connecting through language and communication helps us manage our careers and day-to-day lives as adults while also helping us form supportive and meaningful relationships.

Childhood is a critical period for language development and learning, particularly between early infancy and elementary school.

As children grow, they begin to babble, to produce words, to speak in sentences, and to use the more advanced language needed in adulthood. Each developmental phase is mastered until a child becomes a competent communicator—able to express his or her thoughts and ideas freely. Failure to address delays in one stage can significantly impact later stages as children progress through school and into life as independent, successful adults.

HOW CAN YOU FIND OUT IF YOUR CHILD IS BEHIND OR AT-RISK FOR A DELAY? There are several childhood language milestones that can be used to help determine if a child is developing language as expected.

These questions can help one gain a better understanding of what to expect at different ages. ● Is your child’s speech clear enough for others to understand? ● I s your child becoming frustrated that others cannot understand him? ● Did your child say her first word by 15 months, with a rapid expansion of vocabulary of 100-150 words between 18-20 months? ● Did your child primarily communicate with 2-word combinations (e.g., “doggy go”) by 24 months and using short sentences by 3 years of age? ●D oes your child use language for social communication with peers and adults? ● Does your child follow directions without gestures or visual cues to aid understanding?

● Does your child pay attention to a complete storybook reading in a group? ●D oes your child listen, talk, read, and write to achieve good academic standing?

If you answered “no” to any of these questions, or if you are unsure, a professional opinion by a speech-language pathologist may help put your mind at ease. For the CDC'S guide on age-specific milestones, visit: openlinesny.com/milestones WHAT SHOULD YOU DO NEXT? The sooner you act, the better. The best thing you can do is to seek out professional advice and consider a speech and language assessment or intervention. Children’s brains are remarkably adaptive; neural networks are created and modifed at an astonishing rate in the early years. This means that younger children can sometimes learn and change their habits more quickly than older children.

While the “wait and see” approach may be reassuring, there is no harm in seeking a

professional opinion from a speech-language pathologist about your child’s development— but there may be harm in waiting to do so!

An evaluation only takes one hour and can help determine your child’s strengths and weaknesses. If your child demonstrates a need, targeted intervention can improve skills and provide the extra support for academic success and personal confidence.

If your child does not show a delay but would benefit from a program to strengthen social skills and school readiness, consider signing up for a toddler group program that uses research to directly target the development of critical thinking, speaking, pre-reading, and social skills. Small group settings allow for both fun, social interaction and individualized attention that is tailored to meet the needs of your child, and facilitate a head start for success in school.

If your child is developing as expected, you can leave the evaluation with confidence knowing that everything is okay.

Profile: Open Lines Speech and Communication PLLC About the Author Open Lines Speech and Communication PLLC is a premier practice in Speech Pathology located in Manhattan. Nationally and New York State licensed Speech-Language Pathologists offer the highest-quality services to children and adults with a variety of needs. Dr. Jessica Galgano founded Open Lines on the principle that an integrated, evidence-based approach to therapy is the ideal way to treat speech, language, voice and swallowing issues. Her affiliations with NYU Langone School of Medicine, LSVT Global, Inc., and San Francisco State University allow for clinical application of the most current, peer-reviewed therapy applications and research. Unlike most practices, Open Lines features doctorate-level supervision and an integrated team-based staff structure. In addition to providing speech therapy and corporate speech services, Open Lines is also actively engaged in research, education, and political advocacy on national and international levels.

Open Lines Speech and Communication PLLC can be contacted at 212-430-6800 or through their website OpenLinesNY.com

34

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

INTERVIEW Ariel Weissberger Berko Music Therapy

Rhythms of Comfort Ariel Weissberger on the moving interplay between music and the aging experience.

A

riel, how did you get into music therapy?

I first heard of music therapy while attending Berkeley College of Music where I was studying music performance. I’ve always been interested in psychology, philosophy, and science—so when I saw there was a music therapy degree, I took the introductory class and was instantly hooked. I graduated with a double major in Music Performance and Music Therapy. I also have an MA in music psychotherapy from NYU. What fascinates me most about music therapy is that I get to play music with people who are facing huge adversity. The music that comes from these collaborations, and the reactions that follow, are moving and meaningful. That’s what intrigues me—that interplay between music and the human experience.

What feedback do you get from families and senior facilities?

They are often awestruck by the dramatic changes that can occur; an Alzheimer’s sufferer temporarily returns to a state of lucidity, a personality will suddenly appear. The client will engage in banter, sing, or participate in interactive play. Sometimes it’s just the slight widening of the eyes that indicates we are connecting. It might be a change in an elderly person’s psychosocial state; he might appear calmer or more sociable. I also get feedback about the positive impact of music on relationships—among group members, family members or between staff and clients. People tell me how good the music makes them feel!

Are music therapy techniques any different for children?

It’s more that there are distinctive techniques for different therapeutic goals. We may use singing to strengthen speech or songwriting to teach about the time of year. We may use particular scales to explore different emotions and then slow down the tempo to promote relaxation at the end of a session.

How do you deal with your work from an emotional standpoint?

Being emotionally present helps me connect with the music and the client. It’s important to be able to separate my emotions from the client’s in order to keep our boundaries and to focus on our work.

Can you define your “humanistic creative approach”?

I define my approach as humanistic because I focus on who the clients are as individuals: their strengths, weaknesses, and how their experience affects them. It is creative because we use an artistic modality—music. Consequently, the client feels understood and is left with an enhanced state of wellbeing.

What makes your service unique?

It is unique in the sense that it is quite specialized and many people still don’t know about it. We have a lot of work to do to educate the population about the benefits of music therapy. This growing field is gaining more and more recognition through countless success stories and groundbreaking research.

How do you deal with your own self-care after a hospice or palliative therapy session?

The first few times I played for someone who was dying, I understood that I might have provided this client with his last music experience in this world. It was a great responsibility and I struggled with self-doubt and self-worth. But I have learned to be fully present in the moment, and that helps me during the session and after. I have learned that it’s not about me. I am there to facilitate an experience, an interaction. It’s recommended for psychotherapists of all modalities to be in therapy and/or clinical supervision, themselves, in order to process the feelings that may come up during these experiences.

Have you worked with seniors who were quite dynamic in their heyday?

Music helps bring out the client’s personality. Sadly, sometimes, that personality has been altered due to neurologic changes such as Alzheimer’s. I have had the pleasure of working with individuals over 90 years of age, who can play the most lively beat on the drums and are getting better at it even as their illness progresses.

How have you spread awareness of the benefit of music therapy?

I have been involved in research and published a paper on the use of music technology with the elderly within a music therapy context. I am planning to publish more consistently in my 2018 blog, so, watch that space.

I often teach workshops for music therapy students and professionals. I present in national and local conferences, and participate in the development of this field.

Do you interact with patient's main caregivers?

Profile Ariel Weissberger is a Board Certified Music Therapist and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist with over 12 years of clinical experience. He established Berko Music Therapy in his grandparents' honor and believes that music plays a vital role in the life-experience of the elderly population.

Ariel has designed and developed music therapy programs for renowned hospitals and institutions in the area, and has worked with dementia, psychiatric, stroke, epilepsy, and palliative patients. Ariel is also a professional percussionist, and performs and records regularly with a variety of artists on the local New York music scene.

Contact: ariel@berkomusictherapy.com 347-774-1712, www.musictherapynyc.com We recommend that the patient's family provide us with the contact information for the overseeing doctor, in case we need to make contact. We rarely contact the doctor but may touch base with the physical therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist if necessary.

How can music therapy reach people in a way that other therapies don't?

What is unique about music is that it can reach people at every level of functionality. I have played meaningful music with people who are intubated, cannot recognize their family or even say their own name. I have had clients cry or laugh for the first time in years.

We process music at an emotional, cognitive, and physical level. Music therapy enables us to make all sorts of therapeutic breakthroughs that reach people at their core.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

35

INTERVIEW Dr. Andrew R. Glass NY Podiatric Medicine and Surgery I expert

The Best Foot Forward Pioneer Where the well-heeled of Manhattan get healthy heels.

D

r. Andrew R. Glass is a podiatrist and podiatric surgeon in Midtown Manhattan, at Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. With over 15 years experience, Dr. Glass is one of the most recognized podiatrists in New York and one of the first surgical podiatrists in the United States to practice minimally invasive surgery—a one-stitch bunion removal procedure. He combines his extensive training and experience with cutting-edge equipment and techniques to provide his patients with the highest-quality care.

We interviewed Dr. Glass about his practice and his pioneering work in podiatric surgery.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you got into podiatry.

I grew up in Virginia near Washington, D.C. Both my parents are doctors: my dad is a retired neonatologist and my mother is a retired developmental psychologist. Although I didn’t want to follow specifically in my parents’ footsteps, I did want to go into the medical field. After some intensive research, I concluded that podiatry was a perfect fit for me.

What are the most common foot problems you treat?

The most typical problems are bunions and hammertoes, soft tissue masses, corns, athlete’s foot, ingrown toenails, and heel pain.

Are any of these issues preventable?

Some of these conditions can be prevented with proper footwear and orthotics, but some are genetic in nature and are not preventable.

You pioneered a procedure for treating bunions that is minimally invasive. Can you tell us about it?

I have been performing minimal-incision bunion and hammertoe surgery since 2006.

Back then, like other surgeons, I had to break bones to correct most problems. I pioneered a method to remove bunions by shaving the bones rather than breaking them; releasing the capsule to help the bone move into the proper alignment. The surgery is done with a real-time X-ray machine, which prevents the need for larger incisions, and only one stitch is required.

How do you remove bunions without breaking the bone?

The key is to relocate the bunion by releasing soft tissue that is too tight, and then shaving off any excess bone.

Profile Dr. Andrew R. Glass is a podiatrist in Midtown Manhattan, at NY Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. He graduated from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in 2003.

From there, he went on to complete a competitive 3-year surgical residency at Wyckoff Medical Center. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Glass works hard to combine his extensive training, personal experiences, and passion for quality patient care using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. tel: 212 867 2500 nymidtownpodiatry.com What are the advantages of this method?

For one thing, recovery time is much faster. You’ll be able to walk right away, and you should be back in your shoes in as little as a week or two. Secondly, thanks to the smaller incisions, no broken bones, and no pins and screws, the procedure is far less painful. Lastly, the old method of breaking the bone does not address the tight soft tissue issues that may still affect the bone, which may cause the bunion to recur. With the minimally invasive procedure, recurrence is far less likely.

How would podiatry issues affect day-today functioning and why is it important to maintain foot health?

Foot health is always important; if your feet aren’t healthy, you won’t be able to walk properly. This is limiting, but it also affects the rest of your body and can cause additional health issues, like muscle stiffness and heart problems.

Maintaining foot hygiene is imperative and prevents infections from fungus and bacteria, which can further jeopardize your health.

How has the podiatry field changed in the last decade and has advancing technology improved service?

Podiatry has advanced recently with innova-

tive technologies like fluoroscopy—real-time X-ray imaging. Real-time X-ray machines have become much cheaper than they were, and this makes it possible to perform more complex and precise surgery with smaller incisions. Additionally, new medicines and treatments have become available that facilitate the healing of tendon injuries and fractures. For example, amniotic membrane injections can help you heal better and faster from tendon injuries and fractures—even arthritis. Another example is the use of adult stem cells to help treat injuries and arthritis in the foot.

Do you ever refer your patients elsewhere for treatment?

Yes, I sometimes send patients to other doctors for treatments that are not my specialization, such as flat foot reconstruction.

Although I was trained to perform such treatments, I want my patients to receive the best possible care. I’d rather outsource to a doctor who performs those procedures often.

Do you treat children, and does that require a different approach?

Yes, I do work with children, but most kids don’t need bunion surgery. For kids, we prefer conservative methods like orthotics, but when they are older, they may be good candidates for surgery.

Is it better to address certain problems before one hits a certain age?

Foot problems are always easier to fix if you address them earlier rather than later. Sometimes the difference can be very significant, so it’s better not to wait too long. For example, if the toes are dislocating, it’s important to fix them before they dislocate further.

High heels, yea or nay?

I don’t object to high heels, but I do advise against pointy shoes that compress the toes.

They cause more problems than high heels do.

Finally, what are your top three tips for maintaining foot health?

My number one tip is good foot hygiene.

Keeping your feet clean and dry can help you avoid fungi and infections. Secondly, wear properly fitted shoes to avoid pain and injury.

And finally, whether you suspect you have an infection or an ingrown toenail, never attempt to treat foot problems yourself. Always consult a trained professional or you might end up causing yourself more problems than you started with.

36

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

INTERVIEW Dr. Greg Ribakove Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute

A Hospital With Heart: Dr. Greg Ribakove on the Groundbreaking Achievements of the Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute The only hospital in New York top-rated for both angioplasty and heart surgery

D

r. Greg Ribakove, Chief of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Vice Chair of Surgery at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, has been at the forefront of research and development of minimally invasive heart surgery and has published extensively throughout his career. Before Maimonides, he held a series of prestigious positions, including attending surgeon at NYU Medical Center, Director of Surgical Intensive Care, NYU Medical Center; Chief of the Division of Cardiac Surgery, Bellevue Hospital Center, New York; and Vice Chairman of the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, NYU Medical Center. A fellow of the American College of Surgeons, he is also a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS), the New York Society of Thoracic Surgery (NYSTS), the Andrew G. Morrow Society of Cardiovascular Surgeons, the Spencer Surgical Society, the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the International Society of Heart & Lung Transplantation.

The Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute has been rated one of the top cardiac health institutions in the country. We asked Dr. Ribakove about the Institute and its achievements, as well as his own background.

Why did you choose cardiothoracic surgery and what led you to Maimonides Medical Center?

I chose to become a cardiothoracic surgeon because the heart is an amazing and powerful organ. I was fascinated by the notion that the average person’s heart beats

36,500,000 times a year or billions of times in a lifetime, and I wanted to be able to fix it when something went wrong.

Maimonides is a very important hospital to me. I chose to come to Maimonides because it’s the last bastion of tertiary care

in Brooklyn—the kind of complex and advanced care that is increasingly needed in an aging population. It’s a borough with three million people, but few options for excellence in care. I was also inspired by the hospital’s great history of cardiac services, such as having performed the first heart transplant in the United States, and having developed and utilized the world’s first intra-aortic balloon pump—right here at Maimonides. Coming to Maimonides was also a chance to further reinvigorate the Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute by developing new programs, which we’ve successfully accomplished.

Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute performs the most advanced groundbreaking surgeries and has some of the best ratings both in New York and nationally. Tell us about those achievements.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

37

| Maimonides Medical Center The New York State Department of Health published its annual reports on patient outcomes for angioplasty and adult cardiac surgery in June of 2017. As New Yorkers have come to expect, the news for the Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute is once again outstanding.

In fact, Maimonides is the only hospital in the state to have both its cardiac surgery and its angioplasty programs commended for significantly low mortality rates by the New York State Department of Health. The report shows mortality rates for angioplasty in three categories: emergency cases, non-emergency cases and all cases. Maimonides is the only hospital in the state to achieve significantly low rates in all three categories of angioplasty for the three-year period reported.

The Adult Cardiac Surgery Report shows mortality rates for CABG (or heart bypass) surgery and valve surgery. The team of cardiac surgeons at Maimonides was among five teams state-wide that achieved significantly low mortality rates—and the cardiac surgeons at Maimonides achieved mortality rates lower than any program in Manhattan.

In addition to the accolades mentioned above, our angioplasty program is one of seven in the state to achieve noteworthy re-admission rates—and the lowest re-admission rate in New York City. This refers to whether a patient has complications within 30 days of the original procedure and must return to the hospital for further care.

These days, cardiac surgery is more commonly performed by applying minimally-invasive approaches without the need to cut the chest open. The heart surgeons at Maimonides specialize in these minimally-invasive approaches to surgery, and have pioneered many of the techniques that are now considered best practices across the country.

We wouldn’t be able to achieve this type of success if it weren’t for our interdisciplinary approach to patient care, where the patient comes first.

What kinds of conditions or situations can be treated now that weren’t possible to treat just a few years ago? Tell us about those advancements in training, technique and technology.

In 2012, Maimonides began implanting the Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) in patients with end-stage heart failure, and is one of the leading hospitals in New York City performing this procedure, in both volume and success rates (over 60 LVADs implanted as of January 2018). Also, we recently became

I was fascinated by the notion that the average person’s heart beats 36,500,000 times a year or billions of times in a lifetime, and I wanted to be able to fix it when something went wrong. the first non-transplant, non-trial center hospital in the tri-state to implant the new HeartMate 3 LVAD, a major advancement in LVAD therapy.

We also take pride in our AFIB Hybrid Ablation Program, combining cardiothoracic surgery and electrophysiology procedures under one anesthesia. We perform the highest volume of hybrid ablation procedures in the tri-state area, achieving excellent results with minimally-invasive techniques.

Since 2012, our Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) Program has helped patients with severe aortic stenosis (narrowing of the blood vessel), those with failed valve replacement in the past, or those at high risk for open-heart surgery. Without incisions, a small, thin tube containing the artificial valve is inserted into an artery in the groin, and threaded up to the aortic

Contact info Dr. Ribakove can be reached at the Maimonides Heart & Vascular Institute at 718-283-8902. www.maimonidesmed.org/heart

valve where the device is implanted, restoring blood flow. We have performed over 300 TAVR procedures (the highest volume in Brooklyn) and were the first hospital in Brooklyn to do so.

The Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Program has also saved countless lives by implementing a heart-lung machine to mimic the natural function of the heart and lungs. This innovative procedure gives patients temporary respiratory and cardiac support as they undergo treatment to the affected organ, allowing the heart and lungs to rest.

The Maimonides ECMO Team will also travel to other hospitals to perform this lifesaving procedure where it’s not otherwise available, before transferring the patient to Maimonides for further medical management.

The vascular team is renowned for its wound care, limb salvaging, and focus on therapeutic options for repairing blocked arteries using minimally-invasive procedures in the hybrid operating room. We also take pride in our Aortic Center—the only one of its kind in Brooklyn. Maimonides works with several emergency rooms across the borough so that they can transfer patients in need of emergent care to us for repair of any type of aortic aneurysm. Time is of the essence for these catastrophic events.

Tell us about the hybrid OR. What does it offer to clinicians and patients?

Maimonides Medical Center is a hub for cutting-edge technological advancements.

The hospital has two, multimillion-dollar hybrid operating rooms, the only institution in Brooklyn with these types of operating rooms, which allow more than one surgeon to operate at the same time on patients with multiple or complex conditions, reducing the need for multiple surgeries and providing better patient outcomes. This allows the multidisciplinary cardiovascular teams to work together, using the most advanced imaging and state-of-the-art surgical technology.

What should a patient understand when researching patient outcomes and options?

A collaborative team approach is essential to ensure that our patients receive the optimal care they have come to expect from us. Consistent communication among our surgeons, cardiologists, anesthesiologists and radiologists—and collaboration with our nursing professionals and primary care physicians—is mandatory for achieving the best patient outcomes. And that’s the only way we work.

38

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

HEALTH Richard Hirschhaut American Friends of Rambam Medical Center

Is Rambam Medical Center Israel’s Best Kept Secret?

S

ix-year-old Kyra Warrell is facing amputation of her leg. Doctors in the UK have told her parents that there's nothing more they can do for her rare condition, and have suggested that they accept the inevitable—an amputation and a prosthetic leg. And yet, later this year she will have the first of three operations by worldclass surgeon, Dr. Dror Paley, who believes that if the surgeries are successful, she will not only keep her leg, but will also have a full range of motion by the time she is 16.

There’s something miraculous happening in the North of Israel. And it’s taking place at one of Israel’s best loved and most highly regarded institutions, Rambam Medical Center.

As the largest hospital in the north of Israel, Rambam services more than two million people, as well as being the main referral center for twelve hospitals in the region. It’s the main trauma center for the IDF, where injured soldiers from all over the country are airlifted, as well as the medical treatment center for the US Navy 6th Fleet and U.N. Peacekeeping Forces.

But medical excellence is what American Friends of Rambam’s National Executive Director, Richard Hirschhaut calls just one piece of the mosaic that makes this institution so successful.

RISING ABOVE THE POLITICAL FRAY Rambam Medical Center was established in 1938, making it older than the State of Israel itself. Rambam is also a respite from politics and its often divisive tone, focusing not only on medical care, but also on advancing peacekeeping efforts in the region. Hirschhaut elaborated on one example, which arose just last month, when a young boy from Gaza urgently needed a kidney transplant. Despite the logistical and geopolitical hurdles that

Richard Hirschhaut AFORAM National Executive Director

needed to be navigated, Rambam made it happen, ultimately saving the boy’s life.

Located in Haifa, close to two hostile borders, the daily reality of Rambam is the diversity of both its staff and patients. From Syrian civilians wounded by shrapnel, to Palestinian children who are unable to receive adequate medical care closer to home, Rambam truly is a safe haven for those in need.

Rambam's staff also reflects the region’s rich diversity, representing dozens of religious and ethnic backgrounds, united in their singular goal of providing world-class healthcare. Rambam strives to be a beacon of tolerance and respect, an antidote to the news headlines, and a way to create everyday examples of cohesion and harmony.

Profile Information provided by American Friends of Rambam Medical Center. To learn more or to support the American Friends of Rambam Medical Center, please visit www.aforam.org.

But in a country where security is a constant factor, there is always more that can be done. That’s why, in order to keep safety and security at the forefront for both staff and patients, Rambam opened the Sammy Ofer Fortified Underground Emergency Medical Center in 2014. The facility is the largest underground hospital of its kind and includes 2,000 beds, operating rooms, a fully equipped intensive care unit, and it can be up and running in just 72 hours.

Rambam also has a world-class trauma teaching center, which has trained over 3,000 medical professionals from more than 60 countries around the globe, with life-saving results time and again. This expertise has given Rambam the lowest mortality rate in the country for severe trauma patients.

THE FUTURE OF MODERN MEDICINE The last part of this equation is the innovation which comes out of Rambam, establishing the hospital as an incubator for breakthrough medical treatments. Rambam Health Care Campus provides fertile ground for medical ingenuity, helping researchers from their initial concept, all the way to securing investment. With training and support, cutting-edge therapies, treatments and devices are put into practice. From stem cell treatments and gene mapping, to working towards a cancer vaccine, this research is already having a global impact on the healthcare industry, and on the prognosis and quality of life for thousands of patients around the world.

AMERICAN FRIENDS OF RAMBAM Hirschhaut’s appointment in February 2017 as National Director of American Friends of Rambam marks something of a reboot for the organization. Hirschhaut explained, “We are a vital partner in raising awareness and building support for and connection to Rambam. We welcome the involvement of all who recognize the transformative power of quality healthcare and innovation as the best face of Israel for the benefit of all humanity.”

The annual Rambam Summit celebrates all dimensions of this remarkable facility, from the hospital’s impact on the business world and Israel’s economy, to the medical breakthroughs coming out of its research centers. Friends of Rambam from around the world are encouraged to join in this year’s Summit celebrating Rambam’s 80th anniversary.

Friends of Rambam are not only supporting Israel. They are supporting humanitarian efforts and bold peacekeeping missions in the region. They are advancing innovation in healthcare and shaping the future of medicine – in Israel and throughout the world.

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

39

INTERVIEW Dr. Bela, Dr. Garry and Diana Levingart Central Park Dentists

Improve Your Smile on Your Lunch Break

D

r. Bela and Dr. Garry Levingart graduated from NYU College of Dentistry in 1989 and 1990, respectively. Since then and after opening on the Upper West Side nearly thirty years ago, they have kept abreast with the latest, evidence-based dental treatments to bring to their clients. This has led them to certification in Dental Implantology at NYUCD, Fellowships in Laser Dentistry; and sought-out expertise in Esthetic and Cosmetic Dentistry using CAD/CAM technology. Two years ago, Dr. Bela and Dr. Garry proudly welcomed Dr. Diana Levingart, their daughter, and graduate of NYUCD Class of 2015, to their practice. Dr. Diana is currently pursuing a Fellowship with the AACD. Dr. Diana has a holistic health care and nutritional studies background and hopes to spread awareness of the effects of oral health and nutrition on body and cognitive functioning. She looks forward to incorporating her studies in the Psychology of dental fear and anxiety into her practice to provide BPA-free, Mercury-free, and esthetic restoration options in a calm and supportive environment.

We spoke to the Levingarts to dig a little deeper…

Does your practice specialize in certain treatments?

We mostly deal with tooth restoration via veneers; we replace missing teeth or repair missing parts of the tooth structure that have been compromised due to decay, a fracture or a previous restoration. After taking an intensive implantology course, implantology became another specialty of ours. We also have our own laboratory where we make crowns, veneers, and dentures on site.

Talk to us about dental implants?

Implants are dental prostheses such as crowns, bridges, and dentures that are attached to a small metal post or frame, basically, an artificial tooth root, that is surgically placed in the jawbone. Implants can be life-changing; not only do they correct facial deformities due to missing teeth, but they allow you to eat foods that were previously impossible to chew or speak without impediment.

What are veneers and how do they work?

A veneer is a thin layer of either composite

material or porcelain/ceramic that is placed over a tooth to improve its appearance and/or to protect the surface of the tooth from damage. We've taken many courses with the first company to introduce veneers to the market.

It was actually the first cosmetic dentistry procedure we offered.

How has innovation changed dental cosmetic surgery?

The biggest innovation in the industry is the advanced CAD-CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) technology. We have used CAD-CAM for the last decade and it has completely changed the way we restore patient’s smiles.

We can afford to be more conservative in terms of treatment. Previously, we might have resorted to invasive procedures, like root canal and tooth extraction, but CAD-CAM, 3D scanners and 3 types of laser can shorten procedure and recovery time considerably. With these new lasers, we are able to precisely target the periodontal tissue, this means minimal damage to the surrounding area and much less discomfort for the patient.

In terms of veneers, CAD-CAM allows us to restore between two and three teeth per hour, depending on the case.

Are temporary treatments for special occasions a possibility?

Composite veneers are a quick, cheap option and they are temporary in that, because they are porous, they will last for a couple of years before they need to be either re-polished or changed. They are placed, like ceramic veneers, on the tooth surface but are molded by the dentist—no lab is involved. In one appointment, veneers will change the shape and color of your teeth and can be removed at any time without causing damage. You might say veneers really bring out our creative side; we even enjoy it.

Diana is very artistic and I’m not biased at all when I say, she does the best composite work!

What makes your practice different?

We are a small, family-run office catering mostly to young adults and the elderly. Because my partners are close family, there will be a lot of communication and consultation with zero competition or ego involved! We are based in central Manhattan; many people who might find it difficult to make it to appointments can use lunch breaks or our

Profile Drs Bela, Garry and Diana Levingart all work together at their family practice, their goal is to make your visit as pain and anxiety-free as possible. They love the art and technology that comes with rebuilding someone's smile, and as a result, their confidence.

You can reach them at 212-581-0707, or by email at centralparkdentists@gmail.com after-hours options.

We believe each patient deserves personal attention. I want to point out that in many cases where other dentists have suggested invasive procedures—such as removing teeth or performing a root canal—we managed to fix the problem without drastic measures.

What are the costs and longevity of the treatments?

We offer treatments at several different price points and try to accommodate all budgets. It’s not an easy conversation but it’s true that spending a little more on higher-quality materials for teeth restoration will save money in the long run.

In terms of longevity, it all depends on the quality of the materials, the wear and tear, and compliance to a dental hygiene protocol. Porcelain is strong, but the teeth must be looked after because decay can set in, even behind the veneers. Unfortunately, the patient might not detect anything before there is extensive damage. That's why we recommend hygiene visits every three months; we want to maintain the work we have completed while monitoring for problems in the early, more treatable stages.

I put veneers on a patient in 1991; he has been so meticulous that they are both still going strong (the patient and the veneers!).

Finally, What do you love most about your job?

We put 100% into every procedure—no matter how small. When people leave our practice happy, smiling and satisfied, we are happy too.

40

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

INTERVIEW Beth C. Steinberg Westside Family Acupuncture Western medicine such as biology, chemistry, physics, anatomy, orthopedic and neurological evaluation as well as acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. We also work in our school clinic for three years under the supervision of experienced clinicians to develop technical and diagnostic skills.

How rigorous is the training?

It’s extremely arduous; had I known how tough it was going to be, I doubt I would have begun! There is a lot of memorization, as there is in Western medical education, and it was very rough going. There is nothing simple about learning acupuncture and herbs at Pacific, but I emerged with valuable knowledge and experience. My clinical practice is enormously gratifying, and I love helping my patients.

Eastern Medicine on the West Side Does acupuncture hurt and other questions for Beth Steinberg: Licensed Acupuncturist

H

ow and when did you become interested in the field of oriental medicine?

I wanted to be a medical clinician from a very early age. I adored my pediatrician and wanted to emulate him; he was so calm and caring.

I studied political science as an undergraduate at Barnard College, and then earned a Master’s in public administration with a concentration in public health from Columbia University.

I worked briefly in the public sector, and then raised three children. When the youngest was in second grade, I decided I was ready for Chapter Two, and began researching professions in allied health. When I met the

dean of Pacific College I was very impressed with the breadth of knowledge he possessed as a medical anthropologist. Though I was skeptical regarding Chinese medicine, I decided to take a leap of faith and enroll.

What training is required to become an oriental medicine practitioner?

To practice acupuncture in New York State, you need to graduate from an accredited school of acupuncture and pass the national exam administered by the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine). My school, Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, consistently ranks in the top ten acupuncture schools in the US—and I am proud to be a graduate.

Our four-year training includes classes in

Chinese medical theory provides us with the analytical framework to identify the origin of the patient's problem so we can successfully address it.

How does your practice function and how is it different from Western medicine practices?

I am a solo practitioner, as many are in my profession. I see only one patient each hour and spend at least 30 minutes face-to-face with each patient, often more. I think the two most valuable assets for clinicians to possess are listening skills and analytical thinking.

Listening to the patient discuss their concerns is critical to developing a working diagnosis. Diagnosis in Chinese medicine is far more difficult than in Western medicine: we have no blood work or imaging to guide us, but we achieve excellent results with careful listening, keen observation, and rigorous analysis.

Chinese medical diagnosis relies on a medical philosophy refined over more than two thousand years with constant tweaks based on the experience of hundreds of clinicians.

The medical philosophical constructs are

I

complex and do not lend themselves to brief summaries.

It’s important for me to add that I deeply respect Western MDs; my father is a retired doctor. I regularly see Western doctors for my own health care and appreciate their knowledge and dedication. I like the flexibility that combining Western and Eastern treatments offers me in maintaining my health. Sometimes, Western medicine alone is fine and sometimes Chinese medicine alone is fine. I find, often, that both together offer quicker healing and resolution.

What advantages does Chinese medicine offer to patients over mainstream Western medicine?

It’s hard to generalize, but in a nutshell, the advantage is our different focus. Western medicine, on the whole, focuses on relieving symptoms, whereas Chinese medicine focuses on identifying the causative factors of the symptoms and treating the underlying condition. We call that “the root” vs. “the branch approach.”

Certainly, it is important to address symptoms, such as pain, and we certainly do— especially in acute conditions. However, we are also interested in resolving the underlying reason for the patient’s concern— whether it’s pain, heartburn, difficulty sleeping, acne, late menstrual periods or rashes. Chinese medical theory provides us with the analytical framework to identify the origin of the patient’s problem so we can successfully address it.

Besides addressing the root of the patient’s problem more successfully, the side effects of Chinese medicine are far more benign than Western medicine. Where Western medicine uses a canon, like steroids for psoriasis or antibiotics for acne, we use precision sniper rifles like acupuncture and herbs—which, properly employed, have minimal to no side effects and can almost always be safely combined with Western pharmaceuticals.

What is a typical course of treatment like?

At your first visit, you’ll complete a detailed four-page medical history questionnaire. Yes, paperwork: surprise! I read it and ask you questions that arise from the information you provided. I allot 45-60 minutes for this part of your visit; then decide on a treatment for you, which will take an additional 30 minutes.

Treatment can include acupuncture or other modalities such as cupping, gua sha, or moxibustion; whatever I think will advance your healing. I also use essential oils as an adjunct to acupuncture and instruct

FEBRUARY 2018

patients how to use them at home for selfcare. I often don’t prescribe herbs at a first visit, but may add a standard or custom herbal prescription in future visits.

Follow-up visits last an hour: we talk for 30 minutes, and then I provide a 30-minute treatment.

And for the perennial question of newbies: does it hurt?

I can honestly respond that, no, acupuncture does not hurt.

How is that possible, if it involves sticking needles in a patient’s skin?

Well, we are mostly familiar with needles used for vaccinations or blood draws. These needles are thick and hollow and require the application of pressure to enter the skin and then introduce or draw out a substance.

Acupuncture needles are only the thickness of two human hairs. They are solid, are not

Profile Beth C. Steinberg is a New York State Licensed Acupuncturist, and has been the owner of Westside Family Acupuncture since 2004. Born in Queens, she has been a resident of the Upper West Side for over 40 years. Beth holds a Master’s in Acupuncture and a Certificate of Chinese Herbology from Pacific College, as well as a MPA from Columbia University and a BA from Barnard College. She is a member of the Acupuncture Society of New York and is certified as a Diplomate of Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology by the National Certification Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.

Beth C. Steinberg can be reached at 917-359-0430, acubeth@hotmail.com or through her website steinbergacupuncture.com

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

41

inserted deeply and do not withdraw fluid or add any substance to the body. Nerve endings are most plentiful on the surface of the skin, you do feel the insertion of the acupuncture needle, but most patients say that at worst it is like a mosquito bite. The needle remains in your body for the course of the treatment, and although you are aware that something is in your body—it is not painful. Some patients compare the sensation to that of a splinter: they can feel something is there, but it isn’t uncomfortable. Many patients find acupuncture treatments to be extremely relaxing and actually doze (sometimes to the point of snoring) during treatment.

How long have you been practicing and why do you enjoy it?

I have been in practice for thirteen years and I thoroughly enjoy my work. People come to me in pain and worried about their physical condition and I get to hopefully send them home with both their pain and their worry diminished! Their delight and excitement is very gratifying.

Do you specialize in any particular area?

I have a general practice and enjoy treating everyone that walks in the door. I have found, however, that I have an affinity for treating dermatological conditions. I resolved a number of conditions that Western doctors could not successfully address, and provided successful treatment to patients who could not afford standard Western treatments. These conditions included hyperhidrosis, eczema, rosacea, and pityriasis lichenoides. I was privileged to study dermatology with Mazin Al-Khafaji, a British practitioner in Brighton, England, when he taught his series of dermatology classes in New York. Mazin studied Chinese medicine in England and China and he has an international reputation as an expert in dermatology and autoimmune diseases. I send my patients home to cook raw herbs and drink the resulting tea twice a day. The ingredients may change weekly depending on the patient’s progress. Topical treatments sometimes supplement the herbal teas.

The advantage of these treatments over Western medicine is that there is no need to ingest or topically apply any steroids. Steroid medication is standard for many dermatological conditions; but if a patient has a chronic condition, they often require stronger concentrations that can damage the skin, sometimes permanently. I am looking forward to introducing New Yorkers to this alternate treatment for psoriasis, eczema, acne, herpes, warts and many other conditions.

42

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HEALTH & WELLNESS

I

DRAMATIC LIFE STORY Debbie Akerman Licensed Social Worker

TRIUMPH THROUGH TRAGEDY

How Debbie Akerman Transformed Personal Tragedy into an Opportunity to Inspire and Educate

D

ebbie Akerman was a workfrom-home mom of 11 when a scandal broke out involving her then-husband. Faced with his sudden unemployment and legal proceedings, she understood that it would be up to her to acquire a stable profession and support her family. Never one to shrink from a challenge, she began to study social work alongside her job as a real estate agent. After four years of further study (a two-year M.A. followed by two years working towards a doctorate) and a number of attempts to salvage her 26-year marriage, Debbie decided to leave her husband. She focused her energies on her children, her work and her studies, and felt that despite her many struggles, she was on an upswing.

Then, her eldest son Boruch was diagnosed with brain cancer.

“I felt crushed and overwhelmed,” she recalls. “How could it be, a mere six months after my divorce, that this was what my family was facing?” She has a vivid memory of going home that night to tell her children the bad news and watching the silent tears stream down the face of another son whose bar mitzvah was only two weeks away.

“It was a year of unexpected complications, emergency surgeries on the Shabbat, insurance nightmares and raw pain watching my child suffer,” she says. “It was also a year that I saw the incredible love my children have for one an-

other. One son chose not to spend his gap year in Israel, electing to stay home and take care of Boruch instead. My 15-year-old daughter regularly woke up at dawn to change Boruch’s IV. With superhuman strength, the rest of my children rallied around their beloved oldest brother. It was a year I saw Boruch’s friends divide the days into shifts and come to the hos-

Part of a new paradigm for our time is an increased awareness of what mental illness is, and the reduction in stigma associated with it. Millions of individuals in the United States suffer from some form of mental illness and they should not be identified by their illness any more than someone with heart disease or diabetes. The message is beginning to filter down and I am honored and thankful to be part of that message.

pital or our home, arms laden with comforting treats—giant chocolate cheese muffins, overstuffed deli sandwiches and new headphones.

His friends held him, hugged him, helped him with his basic needs and worked on raising his morale. Day after day, Shabbat after Shabbat, Saturday night after Saturday night, Boruch was never alone.”

During that year, Debbie also met, dated and married her second husband, Moshe, acquiring eight stepchildren in the process.

“Moshe provided sunshine, warmth and the feeling that I was loved, cared for and nurtured. Most of all, Moshe provided a future— something to hold on to, something to focus on, something to breathe in when it seemed there was nothing else.”

BUILDING MEANING FROM RESILIENCE Boruch passed away on the eve of the Jewish New Year. “The level of exhaustion was so overwhelming, the grief so deep,” says Debbie.

But when the community held a memorial service for Boruch thirty days after his passing, Debbie spoke about her struggles and her loss, and that foray into public speaking changed her life. Her platform, Triumph from Tragedy, emerged from that experience. “It was literally a form of life after death,” she says.

“I wanted to create meaning out of my son’s death. I wanted people to know how special he was, and I wanted to carry the message of Boruch’s life and death,” she explains. “I

I

know that finding meaning in tragedy is therapeutic, but at the time, I was not thinking of that. It just felt like the right thing to do.”

Unfortunately, Debbie’s first-hand experience with tragedy didn’t end there. Only 15 months after Boruch’s death, her two-yearold granddaughter was killed when a car ran over her in front of her home. “My maternal instincts went into overdrive and I focused all my energy on my daughter,” she says. “I needed to and had to do anything and everything possible to help her and ease her pain.

And, yet again, I witnessed the incredible resilience of my children as they gathered to support their sister.”

In addition to her one-on-one work with clients and as a professor of social work, Debbie speaks to audiences about a variety of topics that touch on both her personal and professional experiences. On the more professional end, she speaks about coping with addiction, childhood abuse and trauma, and gives lectures to mental health professionals on how to address these issues within the Orthodox Jewish community. On the more personal level, she talks about resilience in the face of tragedy, facing the stigmas and perfectionism ingrained in society today, how to carve out time and space for ourselves, and more, focusing on the power of hope and faith in dealing with the challenges of parenting and relationships. Debbie has spoken at many community events organized by well-known Jewish organizations such as Chabad and Aish HaTorah as well as different synagogues in the United States. She is currently expanding to the corporate sphere as well.

Ultimately, Debbie's story formed her philosophy on human suffering, “We all have resilience and strength,” she insists. “This is the cornerstone of social work philosophy and it’s something I believe in very strongly. In my opinion, it is the job of the social worker or therapist to find the resilience in everyone and help them build that resilience. To me, resilience looks like a little tiny candle that burns inside an individual. A little bit of light can illuminate a large dark space. This is resilience.”

“My basic philosophy is that all individuals possess the strength they need to navigate their challenges in life,” she goes on. “Each and every individual is unique, worthy and strong, simply because of who they are. This philosophy is born from the humanist orientation of Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow.

When we approach our clients from a place of acceptance and love, with no shame or stigma,we can find out what works best and help the client reach their goals by working together. My practice is definitely client-cen-

FEBRUARY 2018

tered with the client determining the control, speed and outcome of the process.”

“Human beings are made of incredible spirit,” says Debbie. “We just have to find and nurture it.”

PARENTING WITH UNDERSTANDING One topic she speaks about often is “off the derech” teens: adolescents who have deviated from the religious path of their observant Jewish parents. “This is a painful topic that is unfortunately very common today,” she says.

“We have to come together and have a respectful dialogue as to why this exists. I work with adolescents; the pain that teenagers exhibit is real and cannot be dismissed. We must talk about addiction, abuse, divorce, economic pressures, and strained educational systems.”

“I spoke at my son’s memorial service last year, I told those assembled that I often come

Profile Debbie Akerman, LCSW, is a licensed social worker currently working on her Ph.D. in social welfare at Yeshiva University Wurzweiler School of Social Work. A mother to eleven biological and eight chosen children, Debbie brings her personal and professional knowledge of addiction, relationships, bereavement and, ultimately, “triumph over tragedy” to individuals and groups. Through individual and group therapy, publishing and speaking, Debbie’s engaging, honest, “cry ‘til you laugh” or “laugh ‘til you cry” style inspires people from all walks of life.

Contact Debbie at 845-642-2854 hdebbieakerman@gmail.com

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

43

across parents who reject their children who have taken on a different level of religious observance. Those parents, I stated, have the luxury to reject their children. When a person has suffered the loss of a child, they understand with deep and crystal clarity that they would take that child back no matter what.

No matter how that child behaved or what they believed. This is the fundamental lesson that the deaths of my son and granddaughter taught me. We never reject our children. To me, it is antithetical to our religion, to our community and to the very nature of who we are. It is well known that teenagers struggle with their identity and it is a normal rite of passage. Communal and parental expectations shouldn't add to this developmental burden.”

Debbie believes solutions can't be quick-fix plasters but longterm attitude changes. “The only solution can be summed up by The Beatles: ‘All You Need is Love.’ Carl Rogers, one of the pioneers of humanistic psychology, stated that when children do not get unconditional positive regard as they are growing up, the consequences follow them into their adult life. I am a strong supporter of humanistic psychology, and I firmly believe that you cannot love a child—or another human being, for that matter—too much. There is simply no such thing as too much love for anyone.”

Debbie shares sensitive, private information and feels this is something positive as it normalizes these conversations. “Sharing my narrative with audiences, and now in print, makes me very grateful and hopeful,” she says. “I am grateful beyond words for everything I have in my life. I have been to the other side, and I hope I do not take anything for granted. I hope that the message I wish to share is accepted, understood and integrated. Part of a new paradigm for our time is an increased awareness of what mental illness is, and the reduction in stigma associated with it. Millions of individuals in the United States suffer from some form of mental illness and they should not be identified by their illness any more than someone with heart disease or diabetes. The message is beginning to filter down and I am honored and thankful to be part of that message.”

“Working with my clients gives me great joy and I learn from them every day,” says Debbie. “It humbles me to see how individuals, couples and families can work toward their goals and find truth and meaning in their lives. The strength of the human spirit is truly a wonder of the world, and one that I never tire of seeing. We are all children of God, and when we allow ourselves to celebrate our differences and unite in our commonality, the possibilities are truly endless.”

44

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

REAL ESTATE

I

SUCCESS STORY Hello Living Real Estate Development

I’ve been doing this for a long time and I’m still fascinated by it. I’ve seen the things I dreamed of actually happen; that’s what it’s all about.

Eli Karp Founder and CEO of Hello Living

Hello Living: Building Stories

E

li Karp is a builder of stories. Since 2005, his pioneering lifestyle real-estate development firm, Hello Living, has vaulted itself into the conversation as a major player in the Brooklyn revival, their remarkable, modernist structures transforming underdeveloped areas into trendy urban utopias.

But for the special education teacher turned developer, it’s less about the accolades, and more about fulfilling a lifelong mission: giving people the opportunity to build their life story.

“The concept of Hello Living is simple,” says Eli. “Like the word itself, Hello transcends lan-

guage and cultural barriers to form inviting, dynamic societies; a place where people of all races, cultures, and creeds can come together and write their own story.”

Eli’s foray into the real estate development arena was hardly conventional. As he likes to recount, he passed a “for sale” sign situated on an abandoned, run-down lot in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. Looking past the rusty rubbish littering the downtrodden property, Eli saw one thing: opportunity.

Rather than purchasing the single property, Eli bought the entire block, envisioning a vibrant community unlike anything Brooklyn had seen before.

FROM THE GROUND UP With precisely zero years of development experience to speak of, the early days of Hello Living were fraught with fear, uncertainty and a steep learning curve. Eli, however, was determined to execute his singular mission, channeling his trademark enthusiasm and passion into every inch of the project.

Before long, Hello Living’s first project was completed - the striking Hello Madison on Pacific Street. This uniquely designed five-story structure won over local residents and housing experts alike for its intelligent design. Featuring soaring 18′ ceilings, luxurious amenities, and oversized private balconies recessed for maximum privacy, it was an emphatic statement that Eli and Hello Living were here to stay.

Fast forward to today, and Hello Living has since completed twelve development projects, with an additional six in the pipeline.

From the cozy, 4-unit Hello Austin to the 56unit, 16-story, luxury rental Hello Lenox, Eli has redefined urban living, eschewing the cookie-cutter to build unique structures that matter to the residents and the community as a whole.

SUCCESS STORY Hello’s meteoric rise is directly attributed to its commitment to the vision and the brand. Everything is done in-house, from construction to design to marketing, ensuring that each building reflects the Hello ethos of building “not for the economies, but the humanities”.

Whereas many developers, blinded by the

I

dollar, look to cut costs every which way, Eli opts for perks over pennies. Though this pushes up construction costs significantly, the end result – increased value, distinctly memorable work, and happier clientele - is well worth it.

LONG STORY SHORT What really sets Hello Living apart is their creative approach to urban living. In spatially-challenged New York City, necessities such as privacy, outdoor space, natural light and storage are in short supply. Each property is cleverly designed to address these challenges.

There are no hallways, no extra walls, and each unit is intended to allow as much light as possible. A private elevator takes residents to their own apartments, opening up directly into the open-plan residence. Every apartment boasts 8 to 10-foot terraces, accessible from the living area, and in some cases, the bedrooms.

Each terrace features unique triple-pane windows which fold away to allow for a completely open view of the New York City skyline.

For developments in up-and-coming neighborhoods, amenities are everything.

Oftentimes, especially in the early stages of revitalization, there aren’t any local bars or parks for residents to frequent. Hello fills that void by creating dynamic communities within their developments. Social spaces, children’s playrooms, souped-up gyms, even running

FEBRUARY 2018

tracks, are designed to help foster a strong sense of community and togetherness.

STORIES UNTOLD Eli has carved out a niche as a pioneer in the gentrification of Brooklyn. As he leads the way, other real-estate experts follow, and they reap the rewards of his almost-prophetic vision. And after 13 years of bringing new life to the area, Eli doesn’t see it slowing down.

“I want to do 10 times more than what we’re doing now,” he says. “It’s going really well, and I know we’re completely capable of doing more.”

Eli’s optimism is not unfounded. Among the seven projects currently in development, is Hello Living’s largest and most audacious properties to date: Hello Nostrand. With 207 luxury units situated on 52,000 square feet of residential land, located just minutes from Midtown Manhattan in the flourishing Prospect Lefferts Garden neighborhood, this

Contact Info Information provided by Hello Living.

33 35th Street, 6th Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11232, phone: 718.435.8212, www.helloliving.com Email: hello@helloliving.com

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

45

project is highly attractive to buyers and investors alike. Residents will enjoy the iconic open-plan design and coveted outdoor space that have become a Hello hallmark, while investors are looking at their equity returned in two years, and a seriously profitable longterm return on their investment.

After so many successful projects, one would think that the excitement would wane somewhat. For Eli, however, it only continues to grow.

“Watching plans and drawings become a reality is what I love,” he remarks. “I’ve been doing this for a long time and I’m still fascinated by it. I’ve seen the things I dreamed of actually happen; that’s what it’s all about.”

“It’s funny. People view my path as some sort of drastic career change, but in reality it’s not. While working with special needs children, my goal was to uncover their potential so they could write their life story, and I’m still doing the same thing: taking undeveloped potential and turning it into something brimming with opportunity for people to make their mark on the world.” “​Whether it’s the​ s​ tarry-eyed​ c​ ouple​ s​​ etting​ ​ out​ o ​ n​ their l​ ifelong​ a ​ dventure together, p ​ arents​l​ ooking to give their children the ability to​ g ​ row​ a ​ nd​ b ​ lossom,​ o ​ r t​​ he​ n ​ ext​ g ​ eneration​ o ​ f​ ​ investors​ ​and​ ​moguls​ ​looking to realize their financial dreams, Hello Living is their story’s beginning.”

46

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

REAL ESTATE

I

INTERVIEW Marilyn Karpoff Karpoff Affiliates | Moving On NYC | Aging In

Moving Relocations: the Real Estate Broker Who Does All the Legwork Whether the elderly client is staying in place or moving base

M

oving to a new home is a stressful endeavor for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for the elderly. Aging residents may need to move because of declining health or limited mobility, and transferring to a new home or assisted living facility can be an emotionally charged and painful process for both the seniors and their children.

Aside from navigating the bureaucracy, paperwork, and medical system, they need to sort through photographs and part with beloved items, often leaving homes full of memories, long-time neighbors, friends,

and habitual, cheriched activities behind.

Marilyn Karpoff, the owner and creative force behind Karpoff Affiliates, Inc., recognizes and seeks to address this difficulty. Aside from the full range of real estate services, Karpoff offers a senior transition service, Moving On NYC, and an Aging In Place plan where she helps people stay at home as long as they are able, providing everything to make that possible. Marilyn and her team manage every detail of the move, from decluttering to packing to remodeling to checking that utilities are disconnected then reconnected—as well as handling all real estate issues. Her service provides peace

of mind and compassionate support to seniors and their families.

Marilyn spoke to us about her business and what inspired her to launch Moving On NYC and Aging in Place.

What’s your background in real estate?

I’ve been in the real estate business for 33 years and I started engaging in senior move management 18 years ago. I began with commercial real estate, expanded to residential real estate and finally to senior move management as I saw the need for helping older people and their families. My business​handles a wide range of real estate services, ​so we can help in any aspect of real estate in addition to

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

47

Place I expert the assistance we provide seniors transitioning​into a new phase of their lives.

Which neighborhoods do you work in?

We work in all five boroughs, as well as the tri-state cities. We also do real estate in all the major cities—and in Israel too.

What distinguishes you from other real estate agents in New York?

What distinguishes us from other agents in New York is the fact that we manage every little detail, connecting clients with all the necessary professionals. We provide peace of mind and ensure that each project is handled with respect and integrity. I deal with each person as though they were my own family.

What services and benefits do your clients enjoy?

Our clients benefit from the fact that we have been in business for many years and have built up a network of attorneys, estate guardians, social workers, caregivers, assisted living or retirement communities, antiques dealers and donation facilities.

We even help rehome any pets that can't accompany their owners to their new place of residence. We determine the market value of your home. We supervise cleaning, minor renovation projects and we recommend contractors, painters and mortgage brokers.

We evaluate furnishings and home contents to help guide the client in regards to what should be kept, bequeathed, sold, donated, shredded or discarded. We assist in packing, contacting and supervising professional movers. We can also refurbish and renovate the new home to ensure maximum personal safety and independence. Additionally, we provide emotional and physical support, since this can be a challenging time.

How did you get involved in senior move management?

In the course of conducting real estate transactions, I discovered that many individuals, particularly baby boomers, were struggling to care for their aging parents while trying to maintain their own worklife balance. I understood the needs of this population all too well because of my own family situation: I cared for my mother, who was in her 90s and wanted to stay at home. That was the beginning of my learning journey which resulted in my Aging in Place program; I adapted her domicile for safe living and accessibility, and I arranged for a full-time aide who was with her until she passed away at the age of 93.

Often, I encounter situations where seniors have no children or family nearby (or at all) and I’m called upon to assist with emptying the residence, redesigning it or managing

tasks of relocation. It was through these experiences that I developed my signature service, Moving On NYC. I understand and appreciate the burdens of eldercare as well as the burdens of loss. Grown children need emotional support while caring for their parents during these transitional periods.

Marilyn and her team manage every detail of the move, from decluttering to packing to remodeling to checking that utilities are disconnected then reconnected—as well as handling all real estate issues.

Profile Marilyn Karpoff of Karpoff Affiliates, Inc. is a licensed Real Estate Broker and Moving On NYC/Senior Transition Specialist.

Email: mkarpoff@karpoffaffiliates.com Ph: 212-358-8044, Fax: 646-607-7259 www.karpoffaffiliates.com www.facebook.com/karpoffaffiliates www.linkedin.com/in/MarilynKarpoff/ www.twitter.com/movingonnyc

What is the role of a senior move manager?

The role of a senior move manager is to help alleviate the stress and emotional burden that a move can cause to an elderly person. The logistics can make a move like this very difficult, and the circumstances surrounding it may be quite distressing. For example, sometimes the move follows the loss of a family member.

We are there for guidance and support. As professional real estate brokers, we can handle all the details, so the client only has to deal with one person from beginning to end. We develop a customized transition plan tailored to the client’s needs and limitations.

Can you tell us about your Aging In Place plan?

We believe that if an elderly person wishes to keep living at home, we should do everything we can to make that possible. In these cases, we draw up a detailed plan that takes into account everything required to make it safe and comfortable for them to stay at home.

We introduce them to aides and care managers and can redesign their homes to accommodate their health, mobility and accessibility needs.

What’s important to know before purchasing a property?

Before buying a property, a person must ensure that they can support the costs associated with it. They should choose a property based on their needs—for example, whether they need proximity to transportation, schools, markets, hospitals or the homes of loved ones.

What do you love about city living?

For me, there is nothing like the excitement of living in the city. The city has so much to offer, and I take advantage of it all, including theater, concerts, restaurants, museums and organizations.

Do you have any success stories to share?

One client, Debbie Smith, wrote this heartwarming testimonial: “Marilyn Karpoff went above and beyond what I had ever expected from a real estate broker. I was in a difficult situation, having lost my brother, and I lived in another state. She helped me sell my NY properties for excellent prices, she handled all the little and big things—arranging for the donation or sale of property contents, tracking down necessary paperwork that would have overwhelmed me from a thousand miles away. Broker, legal advisor, negotiator, therapist and ultimately, friend.

Marilyn was always available for me, kept me sane, and most importantly, I could trust her to watch out for my best interests every step of the way.”

I’m honored to have been able to help Debbie and many others in similar situations.

48

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

BEAUTY & FASHION

I

FASHION Mirasha Moore Modest Pocket

Modest Pocket: The Discerning Woman's Source for Signature Pieces

T

his past November, Naomi Fry of The New York Times published a piece exploring what she finds a puzzling phenomenon: “the significant turn in fashion over the past couple of years toward almost aggressively non-provocative dressing.” Earlier in the year, the first ever modest fashion show took place in London, and NYT’s top fashion critic, Vanessa Friedman, declared modest fashion the defining trend of the 2010s. Both Fry and Friedman suggest that the trend is a reflection of social, political, and cultural trends that have recently reached critical mass. Where in the past, women expressed their liberation by showing more skin, today it seems that women are preferring to take back their bodies by covering up.

Yet women who choose to dress modestly—for reasons of religion, fashion, or anything in between—still find themselves facing racks of clothing that reveal more than they conceal. The quest for modest attire that is flattering and high-quality can be a thankless and exhausting—not to mention expensive—task. And then, we may acquire a piece that we end up wearing once, which then languishes at the back of our closets collecting dust while other women are combing department stores looking for something just like it.

This is what led Mirasha Moore to establish Modest Pocket—an online platform for the sale of modest clothing at modest prices.

A pre-school teacher and mom to a toddler, she has always loved fashion, fabrics, and the arts. Now Mirasha applies her entrepreneurial savvy and creative talents to make modest fashion accessible for women on tight budgets.

Inspired by thredUP, an online thrift and consignment store, Mirasha hopes to make Modest Pocket the thredUP of modest clothing. She buys high-quality, gently-used clothes from their first owners, and puts them up for sale on ModestPocket.com

Profile Information provided by Modest Pocket.

You can check out Modest Pocket’s current selection on www.ModestPocket.com, and follow @modestpocket on Instagram, where Mirasha posts sales and fashion picks. She’ll soon be launching a blog telling the stories behind the Instagram posts.

priced at a fraction of their original retail price. Modest Pocket only sells clothes in excellent condition; pieces that aren’t considered salable will be donated or recycled.

Mirasha determines the Modest Pocket price by evaluating its original price, quality, season, age, style, and demand. For items like tops, skirts and shoes, sellers receive a 1020% payout depending on the price, or 30% in store credit. Dresses and handbags are more popular, and therefore sellers receive a higher payout: 20-25%, or 35% in-store credit.

Higher-quality and brand-name items valued at over $100 are sold on consignment—meaning, you only get paid if your item sells, but your payout is 60-70% of the resale price.

Modest Pocket has been steadily expanding its inventory— including a new line of accessories—and will soon be moving to bigger headquarters.

Mirasha ensures an easy and enjoyable browser experience through meticulous organization. Every item is cataloged on spreadsheets and uploaded to the site according to category, with corresponding images and specifications. Each listing is rated either “New with Tags,” “Like New,” “Great” (has been washed and worn more than once) or “Good” (items with minor, barely noticeable flaws), so you know exactly what you’re getting. The listings also display the original value of the item alongside the Modest Pocket price.

The Modest Pocket concept has a number of advantages for women seeking modest fashion. One, it eliminates the need to browse through endless listings on other sites to find the modest options. On Modest Pocket, all items available have sleeves and skirts are either knee-length or longer.

Another advantage is that women looking for something really special can discover unique items that aren't available in commercial chain stores. Mirasha reports that every once in a while, a real treasure will turn up—like a pair of Sigerson Morrison boots—and she’ll be able to sell it for a fraction of its original cost. Everybody wins: the previous owner gets rid of something she no longer needs and gets paid for it, and the new owner gets a high-quality item she will love for a price she’d never find elsewhere— without ever needing to leave her home.

“Life is too short to wear boring clothing,” Mirasha smiles, “and being on a modest budget shouldn’t mean you can’t be stylish.

I hope my business helps more women find a way to express themselves and rock the trendy modest look without breaking the bank.”

R

AVI EDRI YOUR FRIEND IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY

oget Resca is livto his rich experience collaboAvi Edri believes there’s no such thing as a ing the American rating with art directors, stylwoman who isn’t beautiful. Possibly, there are those Dream—New York ists and photographers, he exstyle. A native of cels in image transformation, with hidden beauty—and with a few brush strokes Nice, France, he came to the ranging from color and cut to of her hair and brush strokes of color on her face, the United States for an extended style and makeup enhancesame person stands before you—in high-definition. visit, and loved it so much, ments. He’s worked with Ralph he never left. A hair stylist by Lauren, Ocean Drive Magazine, profession, he quickly became the stylist age 13, he began creating new looks for the The Wedding Channel and YRB Magazine, of choice in a number of prestigious salons and contributed his skills to IL MAKIAGE, the women of his neighborhood, practicing his before opening his own—the Roget Resca Sa- skills with makeup and hairstyling. They HBA Global Expo and the Michael Awards, lon—on Lexington Avenue. Roget specializes were delighted with the results, and his among many others. in dry cuts, natural and relaxed looks, and Avi’s clients rave about his innovation, reputation began to spread. By age 17 he uses a gentle non-peroxide dye that leaves his energy, his vision and his strong interwas working at an upscale salon, and later hair looking gorgeous without damaging personal skills. Known for his sense of fun shared his talents as an instructor at the Ort it. Roget believes women shouldn’t rely on Beauty School in Haifa, Israel. and creativity, he puts his clients at ease as fashion or trends to determine their perIn 1992, Avi heeded the call to the fash- he teases out their natural beauty. From the sonal style, but should embrace their own ion mecca of the world, and since then has classic and the natural to the exotic and the original look. been contributing his creativity and skill to extraordinary, Avi loves to create something Roget is delighted to have an extremely the New York fashion industry. Indeed, he new and exciting for his clients while taitalented art director on board—Avi Edri. loring their look to their personal style and has been the makeup artist, and the face of Born in Israel to a family of artists, Avi be- IL MAKIAGE Ltd for North America, for 20 vision. Whether you’re a model on the set of gan painting before he could stand upright. years. He’s worked on magazine and cata- an upscale fashion shoot or a blushing bride Even as a child, he took particular interest log photoshoots, as well as upscale fashion on your wedding day, you can rest assured in makeup, he was enchanted by the idea of events such as runway shows, and has been that when Avi’s finished with you, you will creating living, breathing works of art. At hired to touch up celebrity attendees. Thanks look and feel your absolute best.

646-263-6000 I WWW.AVIEDRI.COM I ROGET RESCA SALON I 212-988-7755 I WWW.ROGETRESCASALON.COM

50

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

BEAUTY & FASHION

I

INTERVIEW Carl Goldberg CEGO Custom Shirtmaker

Stitching Shirts for Style and Cinema Custom shirts made in America

C

arl Goldberg says that sewing is an immigrant story—and that certainly holds true for him.

His grandfather immigrated to Pennsylvania from Prussia, and established an army navy surplus store in Philadelphia. Carl grew up working in that very store, studied business in college, then moved to NYC, where he eventually established his own custom shirtmaking business called CEGO. He’s been commissioned for various exciting projects like producing shirts for the Metropolitan Opera as well as many Broadway shows, movies, and TV shows, such as Fiddler on the Roof, The Producers, Wicked, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Elementary, Homeland and The Wolf of Wall Street.

There is a perception that custom-made shirts are a luxury item.

A custom-made shirt isn’t a luxury. It might be a little indulgent. However, it’s also very good value. A customer will get many years of use and enjoyment from a CEGO shirt. Prices are of course higher than most ready-to-wear shirts, and that’s because of our fine workmanship and top-notch materials. We use the finest quality thread, interlining, pearl buttons and fabrics.

What’s the difference between an off-therack shirt and a custom-made shirt?

Most off-the-rack shirts are made in large factories, corners might be cut and costs are kept as low as possible. Often the shirts are made with automated, computerized sewing machines. An operator just feeds pieces into the sewing machine and no one actually does any real sewing.

A custom-made shirt is tailored individually to the customer’s measurements. It should be an exact fit. The client chooses the fabrics and the design details. A custom-made shirt can be made in a factory that’s set up to make individual orders using some computer-aided cutting machines— which cuts costs—or by hand. CEGO makes most of our shirts in our own small workroom of eight people, including a cutter, maker and a number of tailors who sew and press the shirts.

Profile Carl Goldberg has strong stitches keeping his DNA together. A classic shirtmaker serving the discerning man-in-the-street and stars on Broadway and the silver screen. A purist, he will continue making people look their best as long as there's another exciting day ahead of him.

Contact Carl on: (212) 620-4512 info@cego.com, www.cego.com

The most important detail is the fit.

High-quality shirts will have that clean, well-made finish.

What is the process of creating a custom-made shirt?

At the first appointment, I take the customer’s measurements and usually have them try on a sample garment. This is a great exercise for the customer as it gives him a starting point to describe what he likes and doesn't like about the fit.

Then we discuss the design details: collar and cuff style, pockets or not, stitching, etc.

We then choose one fabric to start with from our display wall or swatch books.

Next, we make a paper pattern and cut the fabric for the shirt. The pieces are then

sewn together and pressed. We generally have a sample ready in a week or two, but can complete the entire process in as little as a day if necessary. Normally we have a sample ready in a week or two.

When the shirt is ready, the customer comes in for a fitting, and we make adjustments as necessary. If we are pleased with the fit, the customer takes the shirt home to wash and wear several times, and then comes back to discuss how it feels and how well it laundered. If necessary, we make a second sample. Once the customer is pleased, we proceed with the balance of the order.

What styles of shirts do you offer?

If it’s a shirt, we can make it. We’ve designed many costume shirts for movies, TV shows and Broadway shows. We specialize in dress and business casual, and make beautiful tuxedo shirts. We can even work with knits.

What do you think of trimmings and other customizing options available?

I find weird-colored buttonholes and crazy prints on the underside of cuffs tiresome.

I’m a bit of a purist. An interesting but discreet button adds a lot more, in my opinion.

Also, shirts with more subtle, classic designs will not go out of style when other people grow tired of that garish look.

How long does a custom-made shirt last on average?

White shirts will wear out sooner than colors or stripes. That’s to be expected as they will lose their ‘whiteness’ faster than darker fabrics. A white shirt can be soaked in OxiClean for some new life. A shirt will last three years if only a few shirts are being rotated; if the gentleman has 20+ shirts, a shirt can last from 5-10 years.

Have you met any interesting personalities?

I have met all sorts of celebrities and actors. Tom Hanks was in my fitting room recently in full wardrobe, and I had the thrill of watching him slip into character for his movie, The Post, when someone handed him a cigarette and newspaper.

Any plans for the future?

I may never retire—to my wife’s chagrin! I hope to pass the business to a younger man who wants to make shirts properly. My children’s interests lie elsewhere, so they won’t be taking it on.

What is the most important principle you have learned through your business?

Deliver an honest product at a fair price.

When my customer is happy, I am happy.

Carla Dawn Behrle Custom-Designed Leather Apparel

THE ART OF BESPOKE LEATHER FROM ANCIENT ARMOR TO THE ICONIC MOTORCYCLE JACKET, LEATHER CLOTHING HAS HAD THE POWER TO PROVOKE AND TRANSFORM. LUXURIOUS, REBELLIOUS AND RUGGED, MODERN LEATHER HAS BECOME THE UNIFORM OF SOCIALITES, ROCK STARS AND MOTORCYCLE GANGS, ALIKE.

CARLA DAWN BEHRLE IS A NYC FASHION DESIGNER WHO TAKES LEATHER BEYOND, CREATING EXCEPTIONAL, ONE-OF-A-KIND PIECES FOR PRIVATE CLIENTS IN NYC AND AROUND THE WORLD.

C

arla discovered her affinity for leather while working in costume design. She segued into fashion, taking with her a deep understanding of costume history and impeccable tailoring skills.

Carla’s first venture, a women’s clubwear line called World Domination NYC, perfectly combined her love of leather and costume, gaining a worldwide reputation for its fit and quality. Soon after, she opened a retail shop under her own name and began taking on private commissions. Today, Carla Dawn Behrle is the undisputed expert in her field, specializing in bespoke leather garments for both men and women.

Carla’s vision, attention to detail and unparalleled craftsmanship attract those at the very top of their game in finance, business and the entertainment industry. She’s created custom leatherwear for clients & celebrities ranging from Rolex to Sony Pictures (Men in Black III) to Bono and the Edge, Cyndi Lauper and many more.

“People come to me wanting a piece that speaks to them,their lifestyle, their personality, their desires...” She says “Often they have just a concept or a detail they like. Maybe they dream of a long elegant jacket when everything out there is short and tight. Whether it’s a showpiece or a pair of

pants for everyday—I take into account each client’s preferences, taste and personal style when designing a piece for them.... it’s a wonderfully collaborative process that helps my clients fulfill their dreams.”

Carla Dawn Behrle’s intimate atelier is one of NYC’s hidden gems. Steps from the garment center, all the work is done right there, on premises.

Measurements are taken and initial patterns are hand-drafted. True to couture, these become the cotton “toiles” or “muslin” fitting garments, the framework to perfect and finetune the design and fit of your garment.

During the fitting phase, Carla guides you through a selection of beautiful and unique leathers, hand-chosen based on your vision and preferences, from classic leathers, suede and shearlings to the finest custom finished exotics like alligator and python. Other choices, like lining, hardware and trims will likewise run the gamut.

Once everything is finalized, all the elements come together in a hybrid of couture construction, tailoring and classical leatherwork techniques. The sim-

plest jacket can have well over 60 hand-cut and assembled pieces. Hidden interior construction makes for a piece that fits impeccably—and lasts.

Instead of the many layers of markup that today’s mass-produced luxury items accrue, Carla’s pieces are a true reflection of the care, fine materials and hand-craftsmanship that go into them.

The enthusiastic reviews her work has received say it all: Author Buzz Bissinger, well-known leather fashionista, writes that while he owns pieces from Gucci, Versace, Jitrois, Burberry Prorsum, etc., “Carla Behrle is better than all of them, ten times more attentive and keeps working until the piece is perfect.”

Actress Mia Farrow raves that the handbag Carla created for her is “perfect,” “gorgeous and practical and uniquely suited to my needs.”

There is nothing quite like a leather garment that has been designed just for you and the personal statement of a truly one-of-a-kind, handcrafted, garment.

Discover what Carla can do for you. To book an appointment, call 212-279-5626 or use the contact form on her website at CarlaDawnBehrleNYC.com.

52

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

LEGAL

I

INTERVIEW Nathaniel Muller, Esq. Attorney Law Offices of Nathaniel Muller

Navigating New York Real Estate The Manhattan firm offering personalized legal solutions

T

he Law Offices of Nathaniel Muller offer a wide array of legal services from their headquarters in the heart of Manhattan. From immigration issues to business and corporate matters, wills and estates to family law, and all commercial and residential real estate transactions and litigation, they are proud to provide their clients with practical, efficient and successful solutions to all their legal needs.

In this interview, Attorney Nathaniel Muller explains what clients can gain from legal advice on real estate, how to find the right lawyer, and more.

Real estate is probably the single largest asset most people own. How can using the right lawyer secure these assets?

Real estate is usually the largest purchase an individual will make in his or her lifetime. Being properly advised and counseled is crucial.

Peace of mind for the client is the ultimate goal.

A good real estate lawyer will protect his client from any pitfalls and will advise on tax issues.

There are various scenarios depending both on the purpose and nature of the purchase (main or secondary residence or investment property, condo, co-op or house) and the status of the purchaser (U.S. or foreign buyer). Lawyers who specialize in real estate are familiar with all these situations

and can guide you on how to structure the purchase or sale of your property in order to maximize both the legal shield and the potential tax consequences, whether during ownership or upon resale.

Most importantly, the right lawyer will keep the communication with his client open during the entire transaction (and afterwards should the need arise). The right lawyer will make the transaction happen as smoothly as possible and deal with all the details, alleviating the stress that some—if not most—individuals experience during this kind of transaction. Peace of mind for the client is the ultimate goal.

What separate roles do a real estate agent and lawyer have?

A real estate agent will help you sell or buy, but is not qualified to give legal advice.

An experienced attorney will of course review the contract of sale, the minutes and offering plan of the building if it is a co-op or condo, but mainly, he’ll make sure the appropriate legal structure specific to your needs and goals is put in place. Additionally, there could be fiscal implications in any transaction and the right lawyer will help you chose the right option for your transaction whether you are an individual, a trust, a corporation or a shareholder.

What are the first steps to purchasing a home?

Before looking for a home the potential buyer should consider the following: Will the house be used as a main residence, investment property or any other purpose?

Are you interested in purchasing a co-op, condo, or townhouse? There are legal differences which we will be happy to explain to you.

If the purchaser intends to finance the property, he or she needs to be pre-approved

Profile Nathaniel Muller, Esq., studied law in France and the United States and is a member of the bar in both countries.

Fluent in several languages, he has been featured in the French District and invited as a guest speaker in various forums.

Nathaniel Muller is invited regularly to speak at real estate brokerage firms and to share his expertise with agents about the issues they should be aware of in real estate transactions. He is also an active participant in tenants’ associations and handles buy outs for rent regulated and commercial tenants.

Nathaniel Muller’s law offices can be reached at (646) 256-6003, nm@legalmuller.com or through their website www.legalmuller.com.

for a loan. Especially in Manhattan, because real estate is a very fast market, a seller will not wait for a potential buyer to put his paperwork in order.

Also, if one seeks to change the certificate of occupancy of a townhouse into a multiple dwelling or a condominium offering plan, for instance, a thorough analysis of the possibilities of the contemplated asset should be undertaken very early on in the process.

I

Do real estate lawyers advise on mortgage-related issues?

A real estate lawyer can help you find an experienced loan officer or mortgage broker who will better assist you in obtaining a loan.

Once the loan is approved, your real estate lawyer will be in close contact with the lender’s counsel and will assist in resolving any issues that should arise in order to make the transaction happen as smoothly and as fast as possible.

Is it common practice to ask a prospective lawyer for references of satisfied clients?

An attorney is not allowed to give references because of the lawyer-client privilege and confidentiality requirements.

However, most of our clients are referred to us directly by previous satisfied clients.

What are the three key questions a client should ask before hiring a lawyer?

1) “Who will be my point person? Will the attorney I am meeting with be my contact, or his paralegal or secretary?”

At our office, you will have one and only one interlocutor: your attorney.

2) “Do you practice anything else besides real estate transactions?”

The counterintuitive answer to this question is that an overspecialized attorney may miss aspects specific to your transaction, because he does not have a general view of the array of possible issues. For instance, a good transactions attorney also practices litigation because he will use his litigation experience to better draft transaction agreements, and thus better shield his client.

Likewise, identifying pitfalls and potentially detrimental issues in a real estate transaction may require knowledge of wills and estate law, corporate and business law, family law or immigration law. This is true in all fields of law, but more particularly in residential and commercial real estate transactions.

3) “Do you bill flat fees or by the hour?”

We use flat fees. There is no surprise fee for the client, and we prefer simplifying, rather than unduly delaying and complicating a transaction. Flat fees help achieve this goal.

What complications can arise when buying and selling at the same time?

Buying and selling at the same time requires delicate timing. Sometimes you sell before you buy or you buy before you sell.

Anybody buying and selling at the same time needs to be ready to find a temporary hous-

FEBRUARY 2018

ing arrangement between the two closings.

But there are other options.

If you have sold your residence, but haven’t closed on your new dwelling yet, you might want to negotiate a post-closing agreement with your buyers (sort of a shortterm rental). Please note, this is not always possible with a co-op.

More rarely, a buyer can enter in a pre-closing possession agreement if the residence he is purchasing is vacant and his current lease expired or he already sold his former property. Again, this is rarely possible in a co-op and requires the board’s approval in the case of a condominium.

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

53

establish a title report and then guarantee its report with a title insurance policy. While not legally required, I am not aware of any transactions that do not involve a title insurance policy.

While it is not common to have a challenge in the chain of title of ownership of an apartment in Manhattan, there have been situations where, on the morning of the closing, a seller drew on a line of credit linked to the apartment ownership (thus creating an undetected lien on the property).

I have also seen developers who inadvertently sold the land on which the new construction stands, in addition to the

Given the value of real estate in New York, forgoing title examination and insurance is an unreasonable risk.

Another issue is differing capital gains within the framework of a 1031 exchange.

This is a tool used to differ payment of capital gains by identifying and closing, within a specific timeframe, on investment property or properties of at least the same value as the investment property being sold.

Can someone enter a contract without consulting an attorney?

There is no obligation to hire an attorney to review the contract of sale, but this is very unwise and rare. The other party will generally be legally represented and buying or selling without legal advice puts you at risk of failing to identify issues that can potentially cost a lot of time and money in the future. The attorney you hire will guide you and protect your interests during the transaction.

What is a title examination?

Title examination exists only for condominiums and houses or townhouses.

Co-ops have simple lien searches, because technically a co-op owner is a tenant, while the physical ownership rests with the co-op, so there are no title issues.

Title insurance will cover for all liabilities, title defects, liens and encumbrances attached to the ownership of a property, which have not been detected by title examination.

It is the responsibility of the title company to research the title chain prior to closing,

specific unit being purchased, multiple times—thereby potentially creating numerous claims to the plot of land on which a building stands. Given the value of real estate in New York, forgoing title examination and insurance is an unreasonable risk.

How long does a closing process generally take and what’s important to know in advance?

For a co-op, the rule of thumb is ninety days between the time a contract is signed and closing.

For condominiums, I have done closings within a week of contract signing. It depends whether the apartment is occupied, board approval process (if any) and the availability of the funds for closing.

How important is it for a lawyer to understand how a client’s business works before taking his case?

Every individual is unique and every case has its own challenges. It is essential for a good lawyer to understand his client, his personal and professional situations, his strength and weaknesses and his present and future goals to assist him and give him the best legal advice.

The communication between the attorney and client should be fluid and constant. It is a relationship of partnership and trust.

A good attorney does not work for his client. He works with his client.

54

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

LEGAL

I

LAW Snitow Kaminetsky Rosner & Snitow, LLP

Prenups Are For Business Relationships Too While most people are familiar with the idea of prenuptial agreements for couples getting married, there seems to be less awareness of the equivalent of a prenup for other kinds of relationships.

W

hen entering into a new business relationship such as: forming a new business with one or more partners; investing in a friend or relative’s existing business; joining a group of investors to purchase real estate or starting a new executive position, it is crucial to begin with both a written game plan of what both sides can expect from the relationship as well as a roadmap of each party’s options if unan-

ticipated difficulties arise.

Unlike a prenup before marriage, the prospect of negotiating and signing a binding contract setting forth each side's rights and responsibilities is not fraught with the emotional weight involved in a personal relationship. In addition, the need for such an agreement is even more pronounced than with a traditional prenup. For a marrying couple, New York’s Domestic Relations Law provides for certain financial protections and rights for spouses in the event of a divorce,

About the author Elliot Rosner, Esq. has a varied practice encompassing complex commercial and civil litigation, matrimonial and family law, and corporate and real estate transactions.

Elliot has represented clients in the fields of real estate, health care, education, food production, nursing homes, as well as not-forprofit entities. In his matrimonial and family law practice, he represents clients before the New York State Supreme Court and Family Court, as well as in Beth Din and other ADR forums.

Elliot Rosner graduated from Columbia Law School where he was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar and a Notes Editor of the Columbia Business Law Review. He practices in the States of New York and New Jersey and is a member of the United States District Court for the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York and the District of New Jersey. Mr. Rosner is a member of the New York State Bar Association and lives in New Jersey with his wife and children.

Elliot J. Rosner, Esq. Snitow Kaminetsky Rosner & Snitow, LLP 805 Third Avenue, 12th Floor, New York, New York 10022 Phone: (212) 317-8500 x312, Fax: (212) 317-1308 www.skrslaw.com, erosner@skrslaw.com

even without a prenup. When it comes to a business relationship, without a proper agreement one can potentially be stuck without recourse if the relationship sours.

For example: Two colleagues, Jones and Miller, want to start a new business developing mobile applications, and they form a limited liability company (LLC) together.

They may agree on the ownership percentages (e.g., 50%/50% or 60%/40%) and have a general understanding of the duties each will take on within the business, but what happens if: • Jones and Miller disagree on a major business decision and cannot break the deadlock?

• Miller wants each of them to contribute additional funds to grow the business, but Jones does not want to put in more money?

• Jones wants to sell his interest to a larger company but Miller does not?

• Miller wants to dissolve the LLC and cash out but Jones disagrees?

For these kinds of issues and more, it is crucial for them to negotiate and sign a written LLC operating agreement at the outset of the relationship. The same is true for those who are passive investors in someone else’s business or are taking on an executive-level position in a company or organization.

An experienced attorney can help avoid pitfalls, and costly litigation down the road, by working with the people involved to draft the appropriate agreement that covers the major issues that can potentially arise throughout the course of the business relationship.

I will always remember saying to my attorneys, “…but you don’t understand.” And I vowed to never cause my clients to say this to me. I am fully committed to providing my clients with the personal attention they deserve.

Divorce is stressful. Your lawyer should strive to reduce that stress.

I know what it’s like to be on the other side of the desk. I understand what it’s like to be unable to be with my children over Rosh Hashanah or to spend time with my son on his birthday. I make sure that my clients understand the provisions of the agreement they sign. Few things are as life-altering as a divorce. It affects every aspect of one’s life, including one’s own sense of self. Therefore, I know how crucial it is to help my clients gain control and to guide them through the turbulent waters that lie ahead. My goal is to obtain a resolution as quickly as possible, while keeping the focus on the needs of my client and any children involved.

The positive side of my difficult custody battle is that it made me a better listener and a better advocate.

Janice G. Roven

Family Law with Empathy Janice Roven has practiced law, specializing in litigation, for over thirty years. Then, over a decade ago, she had an experience that would become a defining moment for her; her family was involved in a highly contentious custody battle. Suddenly, Janice was no longer the attorney but the litigant.

Janice Roven is known for her sharp legal mind, her compassionate heart and her communicative nature. She understands that divorce is one of the most challenging experiences a person will ever face and she strives to make the process as painless as possible. Ms. Roven addresses your issues and keeps you informed every step of the way.

With years of litigation experience, she comes to the table with tremendous skills in, both, litigation and negotiation.

Janice graduated cum laude with honors in Political Science from Barnard College, Columbia University.

She was elected to the Dean’s List and obtained her Juris Doctor at Emory University School of Law, where she successfully completed the National Institute of Trial Advocacy Program, receiving an LL.M. from Emory in the area of Litigation.

Janice Roven is fully committed to providing her clients with the personal attention they deserve. Experience, thoughtful representation and proficiency are the bywords of her legal practice.

inquiries@rovenlawfirm.com www.rovenlawfirm.com 212.262.3280

56

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

LEGAL

I

INTERVIEW Vlad Portnoy, Esq. Attorney Beinhaker Law Firm LLC I expert

Preserving Your Legacy

W

hat is your background and what inspired you to enter Estate Planning?

I really did want to be a lawyer from the age of eight. I have been working in the legal industry for over 20 years, in every possible position: file clerk, paralegal, law clerk, General Counsel of a corporation, and now a law firm partner. Originally, I only wanted to be a corporate attorney. However, over time, I realized that my talents and experience would be better utilized in elder law and estate planning. Elder Law is fascinating as you work with many different people and their families; you really learn something new every day. It is relevant to everyone and becomes increasingly important over time.

Which Trusts & Estates organizations do you belong to?

I am a former Secretary of the New York City Bar Association’s Committee on the Legal Problems of the Aging (Elder Law). I am also a current member of Elder Law and Trusts & Estates committees in several Bar Associations in New York and New Jersey.

What services and benefits can your clients enjoy?

My clients receive a thorough explanation of mechanisms behind any proposed legal work.

I also keep them informed as to progress, every step of the way. As their attorney, I am never out of reach. My office tries to answer all calls and return any we missed within 24 hours.

It’s important to me that clients should never feel lost or abandoned.

About 65-75% of our work is dedicated to probate, trusts and estate planning law. The rest is Medicaid Planning and Guardianships.

Being fluent in English and Russian is quite rare (and comes in handy more than you’d think). Being bilingual helps when we handle i n t e r n at i o n a l matters for clients all over the world.

I am also happy to present on estate planning and asset protec-

(Part I)

Profile Vlad Portnoy , Esq. is an attorney specializing in Trusts & Estates, including Asset Protection; Business Succession and Planning; and Probate and Administration of Estates. Vlad also deals with Elder Law, including Medicaid and Disability Planning; Guardianships for persons deemed mentally incapacitated; and Special Needs Planning for disabled individuals. Vlad is licensed to practice in New York, New Jersey and the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.

Formerly a corporate in-house attorney, Mr. Portnoy switched gears over eight years ago to concentrate on Estate Planning and Elder Law. Mr. Portnoy is a Partner with Beinhaker Law Firm LLC. www.beinlaw.com tel: 212.920.6371 I fax: 212.920.6378 vyp@beinlaw.com

tion for professionals or anyone interested in a particular subject. Recently, I presented at a center for autistic children in Brooklyn to educate the parents about planning for their special needs children's future.In these sit-

uations in particular, it is never too early to begin planning. The planning we do impacts not only the current clients but generations to come.

In short, we go the extra mile. A client should expect honesty, integrity, and fast service.

What questions should potential clients ask before hiring a trust and estate attorney?

“What do you think I should do?” The client should be as candid as possible. Estate planning is all about the client, their family and their relationships. But an estate-planning attorney should also take into account the client’s hopes, dreams, aspirations and goals. Estate planning is a marathon, not a sprint. As families grow and change, paradigms shift, relationships break up and new ones form. Therefore, the client must think ahead, address major life changes and check them against their current estate plan, if they already have something in place. The plan that was perfect ten years ago might need a tweak or even a complete overhaul!

Other questions for the client to ask are: Would I be disinheriting anyone? Is someone going to contest the will? Do I or any of my estate’s beneficiaries receive public benefits?

Are there persons with special needs in my life that would be affected upon my death?

Do I want to plan for my beloved pets? Do I own property in another state or country?

Who are my beneficiaries, and who are their successors, (should the original beneficiaries predecease me)? Should I leave anything to charity? The questions really depend deeply on the client’s personal situation that needs to be explored with the help of their attorney.

(to be continued...)

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

57

TOURISM Aden Jewish Heritage Museum

A HIDDEN TREASURE IN TEL AVIV:

The Aden Jewish Heritage Museum

Set on the edge of the historic and picturesque neighborhood of Neve Tzedek in Tel Aviv is a small treasure of a museum that charts the history of a little-known Jewish community. The Aden Jewish Heritage Museum tells the fascinating story of the Jewish community that once lived in the port city of Aden.

A

den is situated at the tip of what is now modern-day Yemen. The Jewish community of Aden was a distinct one, with its own way of life and unique customs.

Letters discovered in the Cairo Geniza attest to a Jewish community in Aden as far back as the eleventh century. The city declined under the Ottoman Empire due to disputes with the Portuguese regarding shipping routes. By the time Aden became a British colony in 1839 it was little more than a small fishing village numbering about 550 people, half of which were Jews.

As part of the British Indian Empire, the protectorate of Aden began to thrive as a shipping hub and duty-free port. As the gateway from Europe, North Africa and the Middle East to India, the Far East and Australia, it

was situated at a very strategic point. Even more so when thirty years later, in 1869, the Suez Canal was opened.

The Jewish community expanded, due to natural growth as well as immigration from the surrounding countries including Yemen, India, Iraq and the neighboring port city of Mocha.

For the Jewish community, the city now provided many commercial opportunities. It

Info The Aden Jewish Heritage Museum is situated at 5 Rechov Lilienblum, Tel Aviv.

It is open Monday - Thursday 10.00 AM - 2.00 PM, Friday 9.00 AM - 1.00 PM. For further information: Facebook “Aden Jewish Heritage Museum”.

was a relatively safe environment where, for more than a century, they were able to live a vibrant Jewish life free from persecution.

Unfortunately, the political climate changed in 1947 with the establishment of the State of Israel. The local Arab population erupted in three days of violent rioting, the destruction of many homes, synagogues, schools and businesses, and the murder of 87 Jews. After this, many felt it was no longer safe to remain in Aden and left for Israel. A smaller Jewish community, however, continued until 1967.

With Britain’s withdrawal from the area, the remaining Jews moved to London or Israel.

Although not a single Jew still resides in Aden, the community continues in Israel and London, and its customs and heritage are being passed on to the next generations.

The Aden Jewish Heritage Museum is situated on the ground floor of Bet Knesset Kol Yehuda built on land purchased by Yehuda Menachem Messa, community leader in Aden during the early 1920s. His son, who settled in Israel, built the shul in 1938.

Dani Goldsmith and his cousin Uriel Messa (both descendants of Yehuda Menachem Messa) set the museum up five years ago answering the need to record memories before they are forgotten. The museum chronicles the life of the Jews of Aden under the British from 1839 to 1967, with photographs of the Jewish quarter; school and wedding photos; religious artifacts including a very rare Torah crown; and objects from homes and businesses of the time. There is also rare film footage of the largest of the seven synagogues that existed in Aden, which had seating for a thousand people. Bet Knesset Kol Yehuda is in use every day and can be a part of your museum visit.

58

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HOME

I

INTERVIEW Mayan Metzler German Kitchen Center I expert

A Better Kitchen, A Better Life

M

ayan Metzler is an Israeli-born entrepreneur who moved to New York after completing his IDF service. In the year 2000, he started a full-service remodeling business called My Home, where he acquired a great deal of knowledge and experience in the home renovation business. Along the way, Mayan came across the Leicht brand—the world’s #1 kitchen brand from Germany— and was so impressed with their products that he began distributing for them. He opened the first Leicht store in America, on the Upper West Side, in the summer of 2011.

After partnering with another world leading brand, Nobilia, in 2012, Mayan founded

German Kitchen Center: a national chain that markets only high-end European brand kitchens, the first of its kind in the US. What fresh concept does German Kitchen Center offer the American market?

If you were in the market for a kitchen, you basically had two options: the large national chains like Home Center, Home Depot, Lowe’s or IKEA; or showrooms for high-end Italian and German brands. There was nothing in between. We are the first company to offer more than one German kitchen brand at various price points. It’s the best of both worlds: the efficiency, reliability and price flexibility of a large business together with the quality and breathtaking design of top brands you won’t find in

mass-market chain stores.

And the fact that we’re a national kitchen chain means that our clients do not face the risks involved in working with smaller operations.

Which brands do you work with?

We currently offer products from eight to ten brands, each a world leader in its line.

This February, we’re launching our new partnership with Team 7—an Austrian brand that specializes in solid wood furniture.

Your first store opened on the Upper West Side, but now you’re a national chain. Where else are your located?

Our beautiful flagship store on the Upper West Side still exists, but we now have more than a dozen showrooms all across the

I

country, from Miami to Denver—and a new location is opening soon in Seattle.

What’s the difference between a mass-market kitchen and the German brands you offer?

German-made kitchens are of far superior quality, inside and out, often outlasting the subpar mass-market brands. Team 7, for example, cultivates its own special trees in its own forest to produce the wood for their kitchen cabinets and countertops. This guarantees the finest, strongest, most durable materials. Leicht went to great lengths to design innovative glides and especially sturdy ball bearings for deeper drawers and pantries, making the drawers and shelves glide seamlessly no matter how much weight they carry.

Another advantage is improved inner storage. German kitchen cabinetry is built to maximize both storage capacity and accessibility. The cabinet systems are designed to accommodate various types of appliances, which gives you more flexibility. More efficient storage means more spacious cooking surfaces and more floor space.

Can you explain the “work triangle” concept?

FEBRUARY 2018

Many kitchens are designed according to the work triangle concept—that most of the activity in the kitchen revolves around three points: the refrigerator, the sink and the cooktop. The prevailing philosophy in the USA has been to spread out the work triangle as much as possible to give the kitchen a more spacious feel. This is a mistake! These days, more and more designers are adopting the idea of making the work triangle as compact as possible to maximize efficiency and convenience. For example, a countertop area

Profile Israeli-born Mayan Metzler knows how to bring the best out of your kitchens. He has developed a one-stop kitchen center chain that has a flagship store on the Upper West Side. Mayan Metzler made New York his home and everyone knows the real party is always in the kitchen.

Contact: (888) 209 5240 www.germankitchencenter.com

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

59

where you’re chopping, with the sink right next to you on the right and your cooktop on the left, and additional accessories and gadgets that save space.

Why do you think the U.S. is lagging behind Europe in applying this concept?

Most American houses are larger, giving designers more space to work with. Europeans have always had to be more creative about fitting things into smaller spaces.

This economical use of space is especially beneficial for residents of Manhattan, where apartments can be small and cramped.

What do you enjoy about working in New York?

You can have such a wide variety of styles in the same neighborhood, because that’s what New Yorkers are about—a gathering of people from all over the world. I love that diversity.

What do you love most about your job?

When we supply a client with a better kitchen we improve their quality of life.

The kitchen is the heart of it all: it’s where you eat, it’s where you entertain, it’s where you cook, it’s where you communicate with your family—it’s where you live your life.

60

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

HOME

I

INTERVIEW Sarah Grace Embrace Your Space NYC I expert

The Manhattan Fairy Godmother of Decluttering Works Her Magic Helping you find space for the important things in life.

H

ow did you get started in the field of home organization?

I’ve always enjoyed organizing—creating calm out of chaos is very satisfying for me. I want my surroundings to inspire me, but I’m also easily overstimulated by cluttered spaces.

I’ve learned to balance my tendency to collect things with a healthy dose of purging. That’s where my organizing comes in, I like to find a way to fill a space just right.

How has previous experience shaped your business?

When I started, I was organizing lots of closets and kitchens, helping busy New Yorkers maximize their tiny New York spaces and helping them move and settle into their new homes.

Over time, I realized that people going through emotional upheavals—relationship breakups, the loss of a loved one, a newly empty nest, or a job transition—need more than closet makeovers and decluttering. Because of this, I created a system to address what is needed most during these seasons of transition and loss. Often, people call me thinking their stress is due to the clutter in their lives, and they begin to realize that the clutter is a symptom of stress, not the cause of it. We’re able to refocus on what’s really going on and make changes to live happier, more fulfilling lives.

What do you like the most about working and living in New York?

My years of playing Tetris as a kid prepared me for a career as a professional organizer!

I’m a problem solver by nature. New York's

Profile Sarah Grace is the creator of the revolutionary Breakup Organizing method that supports individuals in reclaiming their physical space after any type of significant life loss. Sarah is the founder of Embrace Your Space NYC, which specializes in residential organizing for individuals. Sarah brings a background as a teacher to every client interaction, transferring those skills that will help individuals take control of their living environment.

Sarah Grace can be reached at sarah@embraceyourspacenyc.com, (347) 620-6798 or through her website www.EmbraceYourSpaceNYC.com

abundance of tiny living spaces gives me plenty of opportunity to really stretch my organizing muscles. To me, every project is a fun challenge to make the best use of our quirky New York housing options.

A small space can be either an obstacle or a blessing in disguise, depending on how you look at it. When we don’t have excess space, we’re forced to think hard about what we want to keep in our lives. We can’t squirrel stuff away in attics, basements and garages, the way non-city-dwellers can.

The result is that only items that earned their place can remain in our space. This is a wonderful opportunity to be intentional about our space and develop the clarity needed to curate a collection of items that we use and love.

What do you focus on with new clients?

My goal is to help my clients make the right decisions regarding what to keep and what to let go, until they feel comfortable making the decisions themselves. This is intentional living.

We accumulate so much in our spaces without realizing it. Then one day, we suddenly realize we are practically buried in stuff. Imagine, instead, living in a well-curated space, surrounded by things that have personal meaning to you—things that inspire you and reflect who you are.

Is there an element of therapy to professional organizing?

I find the process to be cathartic, soothing and at times therapeutic. Sorting things brings back memories or feelings, and it’s an opportunity to reflect and process it all. I’m not a therapist or mental health professional, so I keep focused on the job at hand, but within that, I’m mindful of the emotions that come up and what is going on with the client internally. I like to say, “You gotta let go to grow.”

I would imagine your breakup organizing service can be a tough process.

Breakup Organizing is an intense process.

It’s designed to be immersive, transformative, and therefore takes a lot more out of both myself and my client than typical organizing. Powerful shifts occur sometimes and my intention is to always be present and supportive, but not invested, in the decisions of the client.

I’m very clear that this is their journey and I am honored to be a part of it. The transformation looks different for us all, I’m open to the various forms it takes—as long as I know I am doing my part to support the client.

I

How do you manage a client who is more reluctant to let you enter their living space (or headspace) and touch their possessions?

I’m very selective about the clients I work with. During the consultation, I’m very clear about what’s involved in the work I do, and I listen closely to determine whether the person in front of me is ready for this.

I have prospective clients fill out a Readiness Assessment so that we can have an open conversation about where they are and if they’re ready for the work they say they want to embark on. Therefore, when we dive in, there isn’t any reluctance. That’s not to say that resistance won’t come up, there’s always resistance to letting go of possessions—that’s normal and we deal with it.

Do you have a unique system?

I guide my clients through the SPACE system.

This helps clients feel less overwhelmed. The acronym is not my invention, but I’ve adapted it to my methodology and clients respond to the structure and intuitive nature of it.

SPACE stands for: Sort, Purge, Arrange, Containerize, and Establish a maintenance system.

FEBRUARY 2018

meaningful memorabilia unearthed.

During one office-organizing project, going through years of paperwork and unopened mail, I found over $10,000 of uncashed checks I was able to have re-issued and cashed. Not bad for a day’s work, I’d say!

What’s on your checklist for your ‘on-site initial assessment’?

When I meet a new client, my intention is to listen for the WHY behind their desire to get organized.

The state of our home has such a huge impact on our lives—it impacts our productivity, our relationships, our peace of mind, and so much more. I listen to what they say they want, and even deeper, to the “why” behind that.

“This place is just such a mess” is a surface reason. The “why” behind that may be that they want to declutter so they can have friends over and start entertaining again. “I can never find what I’m looking for” may really mean they feel out of control and want to streamline so they’re not so overwhelmed.

Finding out the “why” behind the desire to

This is a wonderful opportunity to be intentional about our space and develop the decision-making muscles needed to curate a collection of items that we use and love.

Are there people who wouldn’t benefit from your service?

I think we all could use a little more organization in our lives. There are those of us who desire our space to be organized and tranquil, and others are less concerned about that.

I’d say remove those on either end of the spectrum—the very organized or the very disinterested in organization—would not be ideal candidates to work with me.

Can you give any great "lost treasure" anecdotes?

A phrase I hear often—nearly on a daily basis—is, “Ohhh! That’s where that went!

I can’t tell you how long I’ve been looking for this!”

Inevitably, during the organization process, my clients are reunited with treasures they had long given up on or had forgotten about.

There have been family heirlooms rediscovered, important documentation retrieved and

organize is key, because it acts as an incentive to keep on going even when the going gets tough.

What would you say to someone who isn’t sold on the idea that an impartial, professional organizer might be the way to go?

Some people can absolutely do this alone.

Just like many people can manage their own money, work out regularly on their own, cut their own hair and clean their own houses.

I’m here as a resource not because people can’t get organized on their own, but because many people don’t know how to get organized on their own.

If organizing came easily to most people they would have done it already. In addition to my expertise and unique approach, I’m also there for support and accountability.

Once I'm actually there, in person, they can't procrastinate for another day. For many, this

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

61

is enough to press the reset button and get them back on track with new skills and habits to maintain the newly organized space on their own. Others are more comfortable outsourcing this by having me come by periodically to maintain and update.

Do you stay in touch with your clients once finished with the process?

I keep in touch with many of my clients.

I follow up and check in with them because my priority is to ensure that their relationship with their space is a positive one. I love hearing from clients how they’ve stayed organized and made tweaks and new discoveries for their personal organization system.

If you had to give one rule to a client to sustain them between check-ups, what would it be?

Be on the lookout for the word “should”.

Catch yourself when you use that word and recognize it as a red flag. Anything you’re holding onto out of obligation needs to be re-examined. Don’t “should” on yourself!

Tell me about your 15-Week Scavenger Hunt De-cluttering Challenge The 15-week scavenger hunt is designed to help reduce needless labor and stress stemming from a disorganized space. In each phase, I give a simple 10-minute task that, on its own, is just one piece of the puzzle— but when it’s all done, will lead to a grand accomplishment.

My suggestion to you is to set aside a 10-minute block of time each week to actually act on the prompts I give you. Go ahead— schedule these organizing sessions in your calendar! These tasks are based on the items I find most often in many homes.

How do you feel about minimalism?

I’m a big fan of minimalism. It’s about living an intentional life that is not weighed down with clutter.

The Minimalists—Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus—are a big inspiration for me, they really encapsulate the ideal of living a meaningful life with less stuff. Not everyone will appreciate this approach, but I think there is value in their message and their philosophy. They often say, “Love people and use things, because the opposite never works.” Who wouldn’t agree with that?

Do you think you can truly be both a collector and a minimalist?

Absolutely. The word to use here is “curate”.

I believe minimalists curate a space and a life that is meaningful. Collecting can be mindless or obligatory. Curating is intentional.

62

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & LEISURE

I

INTERVIEW Daniella Levy Author

Spotlight on an AmericanIsraeli Author: Daniella Levy

E

ngaging characters, a 500-yearold family mystery and romance—what more could a reader want? I had a hard time putting it down!” That’s what Maggie Anton, award-winning author of the Rashi's Daughters trilogy, had to say about Daniella Levy’s debut novel, By Light of Hidden Candles (Kasva Press, 2017). Daniella, an Orthodox Jewish American-Israeli writer, also penned Letters to Josep: An Introduction to Judaism (Guiding Light Press, 2016), and her short fiction, articles and poetry—in three languages—have been widely published in magazines, literary journals, anthologies and news outlets. Born in New York, she immigrated to Israel with her family as a child, and currently lives at the edge of the Judaean Desert with her husband and three sons.

You moved to Israel as a child; how did you preserve such a high level of English?

We maintained a strong “English-language culture” at home. I was a voracious reader from a very young age—I taught myself to read at age four—and I read almost exclusively in English even after acquiring a decent command of Hebrew. But I do write in Hebrew too; I’ve written for Pnima Magazine and had some poems published in Hebrew.

One of my day jobs is translating from Hebrew to English.

Tell us about By Light of Hidden Candles.

The story begins in the Jewish Quarter of 16th-century Fez where a dying woman hands her granddaughter a heavy gold ring—and an even heavier secret. Five hundred years later, the girl journeys to Madrid to fulfill her ancestor’s final wish in the company of a young Catholic Spaniard whose priest always warned him about getting too friendly with Jews. The book follows their quest as it takes them from Greenwich Village to the windswept mountain fortresses of southern Spain and as their friendship deepens and threatens to cross boundaries sacred to both.

What they finally discover in the Spanish archives will force them to confront the truth about who they are and what their faiths mean to them.

What inspired you to write it?

It’s hard to pinpoint just one factor. I’ve always found Sephardic Jewish history riveting—particularly the Inquisition era. I have also always been fascinated by people who are different from me. The encounters between people of different faiths and cultures portrayed in the book were certainly influenced by my own real-life friendships of that kind.

Speaking of which, tell us about Letters to Josep.

Letters to Josep is a collection of letters I wrote to a Christian friend from Barcelona, ex-

Info You can find out more about Daniella and her writing at Daniella-Levy.com.

plaining the basic principles and practices of Judaism. I started publishing them as a blog and eventually compiled them into what became my first book. Like By Light of Hidden Candles, it combines a light, humorous touch with in-depth exploration of serious and sometimes tough issues. And yes, my real-life friendship with Josep certainly made its mark on Hidden Candles.

By Light of Hidden Candles weaves together three narratives, one of which is set in 15th century Spain. How did you go about your research?

I muddled through it! Thankfully, the Internet is an incredibly rich and useful source of information these days. I read extensively from books and academic papers, and when I got bold enough, contacted experts for specific questions. I took several online courses that gave me a good background on working with medieval manuscripts and Spanish history. I explored the streets of cities I’ve never visited with Google Street View and by sitting through painfully boring YouTube footage from tour buses and dashcams! I even went from zero Spanish to B1 level literacy thanks to diligent use of the Duolingo app—which helped me access even more material.

What message do you hope your readers take away from By Light of Hidden Candles?

As a religious Jewish woman, I sometimes feel tension between my deep love for my heritage and traditions and the call to faraway places and experiences that are forbidden to me. I think that when this tension is portrayed in mainstream culture, it is almost always seen as a tragedy—like a caged bird longing to be free. That’s not how I feel at all. Though choosing what I believe is right over what feels good may sometimes be painful, it is also deeply rewarding in ways that may be less glamorous or obvious, but are crucial to my growth as a person.

This idea is somewhat countercultural and I hope I have conveyed it with nuance.

64 I M A N H A T T A N P R O F I L E S I F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 8 I

I

FEBRUARY 2018

I

MANHATTAN PROFILES

I

65

66 I M A N H A T T A N P R O F I L E S I F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 8 I

EVENT & DESTINATION MANAGEMENT "YOUR CONCIERGE FOR NEW YORK CITY"

Private/Corporate Parties & Galas I Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Sweet Sixteens I Conferences, Meetings, & Incentive Programs Team Building Experiences I Transportation & Vendor Sourcing Corporate Holiday Parties I Insider New York Experiences

Let's start the conversation: info@swargoevents.com 917-447-0967 www.swargoevents.com

Taerra Pence, Soprano Everyone has a voice that is unique and beautiful.

That beauty can be unlocked with patience, practice, and perseverance.

LESSONS ARE AVAILABLE IN YOUR HOME, RENTED STUDIO OR VIA SKYPE OR FACETIME. ~ All skill levels and genres welcome ~ Specializing in foundational technique and vocal repair ~ Conservatory/university application and audition prep packages available

“The Rolls Royce of Human Hair Wigs“ The New York Times

PERFECT SOLUTION FOR HAIR LOSS CALL NOW TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT FOR YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

PRIVATE ROOMS

ALL WORK DONE ON PREMISES

1468 E. 3rd Street. Brooklyn, NY 718-998-6043 www.claireswigstudio.com

SERVICE

QUALITY

PERFECTION

HELLO DAKOTA

HELLO MADISON

HELLO HUDSON

HELLO SYDNEY

HELLO WASHINGTON

HELLO LOFTS

HELLO LENOX

HELLO NEW YORK

HELLO AUSTIN

HELLO TOWNHAUS

HELLO NOSTRAND

HELLO STERLING

HELLO SUTTER

HELLO FULTON

HELLO ALBEMARLE

Hello Living has a bold vision to create homes that breathe new ways of life into our favorite city, transforming under

BUILDING STORIES

appreciated neighborhoods into vibrant urban communities.

Like the word itself, Hello bridges cultural expression to form inviting, dynamic societies. We speak the language of modern integrated spaces, luxurious details, and abundant natural light for truly inspired living.

Say Hello to a new way of living.

One home at a time 33 35th Street, 6th Floor | Brooklyn, NY 11232 T: 718.435.8212 | Email: hello@helloliving.com www.helloliving.com