Special Edition Vol. 3 #6 | June/July 2017
PS PAUL SHAFFER
LIFE AFTER LETTERMAN
GETAWAYS SARATOGA SPRINGS TO DOWN THE SHORE
REAL ESTATE BROOKLYN IS BOOMING
FASHION SPLASH INTO SUMMER SWIMWEAR
DON’T MISS ERNIE ANASTOS PUBLISHER’S NOTE
GENIE
Rule The Court.
ROCK THE HOUSE.
BOUCHARD JOHN
ISNER
MARDY
FISH
KIRSTEN
FLIPKENS GUIDO
PELLA MARIA
SANCHEZ COACH GIGI
FERNANDEZ
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©2017
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JULY Fans will experience world-class tennis featuring their favorite pros and an evening of specialty food, music and non-stop action.
2017 16
SUN 5PM
ISNER
YOUNG
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WED 7PM
THUR 7PM
Battle of the Boroughs Enjoy in-stadium games and contests with NYC Borough themes and prizes to match. MARQUEE PLAYERS Mardy Fish Genie Bouchard
Family Fun Night
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FRI 7PM
Nevertheless She Persisted Night
Cinco de Mayo Celebramos! Join us in recreating the feel
of Cinco de Mayo in July with live music, specialty drinks and fútbol (soccer) themed activities in July. MARQUEE PLAYERS Mardy Fish Genie Bouchard
Recognize women who inspire with Billie Jean King and the Women’s Sports Foundation. MARQUEE PLAYERS Mardy Fish Donald Young and Sloane Stephens (Philadelphia Freedoms)
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THUR 7PM
Featuring face painting, games and live entertainment kicking off the season in style. MARQUEE PLAYERS John Isner Donald Young and Sloane Stephens (Philadelphia Freedoms)
vs
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NYC’S ONLY PROFESSIONAL TENNIS TEAM
30
SUN 5PM
International Night With traditional ethnic foods highlighting the multi-cultural fabric of Queens. MARQUEE PLAYER Mardy Fish
Salute to Public Service Night Honor the tristate area’s finest with us in an on-court ceremony celebrating the commitment of service members, police officers, firefighters, medical professionals and teachers.
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MON 7PM
MARQUEE PLAYER Mardy Fish
Nevertheless She Persisted Night Celebrate the NY Empire’s 2017 season with team merchandise giveaways and a chance to win US Open tickets! MARQUEE PLAYER Mardy Fish
For more information and ticket packages visit www.nyempiretennis.com NYE_LifestyleMagAd-3.indd 2
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Experience a special Saratoga event The Annual Summer Gala is a highlight of the Saratoga summer season — a perfect blend of the city’s historic grandeur and intimate charm. Over the past 35 years, the event has raised over $8.3 million and witnessed record attendance of more than 1,000 guests in 2016. As one of the Capital Region’s largest, most successful charitable auctions, the Annual Summer Gala is not to be missed! WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2 ND | 6 – 9 PM THE POLO MEADOW AT SARATOGA CASINO HOTEL There’s no better place to be than Saratoga in summer, and there is no better cause to support than the care provided by our Saratoga Community Health Center. We hope to see you here.
211 Church Street, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 | 518.583.8779 501auctions.com/summergala
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FEATURES 12 14 15 50 56
15
Publisher’s Note June/July Calendar Paul Shaffer—Life After Letterman Through The Lens With Annie Watt Joan Hornig: Wave Hello!
FASHION & BEAUTY 20 Swimwear Exposé 22 Cool Tips For Hot Styles
22
TRAVEL 25 31 37 42 44 46
Those Wildwood Days... Still Shine Bright Something For Everyone Summer In Saratoga Springs Philadelphia: Let Freedom Ring The Warwick Hotel: Rosebud Redux Northern Lights: Quebec City
25
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 49 59 64 66 68 70
Notes From DB 461 Dean Street 365 Bond The Ashland The Waverly Brooklyn Spotlight: Think! Architecture & Design
64 JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 7
JULY 5 -15
spac.org
74 HEALTH & WELLNESS 72 74 77 79
Saving Summer Skin Spa Scene Fresh & Tasty Summer Produce Reading Is Good Medicine
DINING 80 Bringing Bavarian Fare To The Bowery 82 Let’s Get Grilling 85 Everything Is Looking Rosé
80
THEATER & ARTS 88 92 94 96 98
Big Screen Previews On Stage Pat Collins’ Picks of Home Entertainment Marvelous Marvin Hamlisch RUMBLE: The Indians Who Rock The World
96
NEW YORK, NY 102 105 108 110 112
A Bit Of Country Within The City The Hamptons Pet Set Entrepreneur’s Corner My New York Story: Julie Menin 15 Minutes With Beth Leavel
102 JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 9
Woodloch.
A story about bringing families
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Vol. 3 #6 | June/July 2017 President / Publisher Bill Mason Executive Publisher Ernie Anastos
Editor at Large Nina Anastos Floyd
Vice President of Sales Lyle Seltzer
Director of Operations Kurt Nesheim
Marketing Director Phillip Anastos
Art Director Eric Duncan
Managing Editor Patricia Canole
Medical Editor Doris Day, MD
Arts & Entertainment Editor Pat Collins
Feature Editor Joan Hornig
Real Estate Editor Daniel J. Bollinger
Fashion & Style Editor Miki Makrillos
Contributing Editor Clint Brownfield
Chief Photographer Annie Watt
Read Any of Our Issues In Digital Format on:
Issuu.com | Apple Newsstand | Our Website
Contributing Writers Chef Robyn Almodovar, Michael Alpiner Shari Bilt Boockvar, MS, RDN, Kristen Carlucci, RD, Karen Feld Judy Goss, Karen Jacobs, Peter Kalellis, Ruth J. Katz Gretchen Kelly, Julie Menin, Kelly McFarland, Griffin Miller Jeannie Pawlowski, Anthony Rapacciuolo, Anne Raso Richie Realms, Joanna Roberts, Beth Shapiro Baruch Shemtov, Barbara Carole Sickmen, Bill Spadea Patricia Stark, Leigh Stringer, Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Leslie Termuhlen Susan Traub, Sharon Volpe, Gigi Stone Woods, Lori Simmons Zelenko Internet Presence Scott Cuollo, Richard Austin Advertising BLUE VISTA 725 Sales Bill Mason Sr. - Director of New Business Development Brett Caldwell - Director of Integrated Sales and Marketing John Miller - Director of Sales - Travel Michael Stulmaker - Director of Sales - Real Estate Janneta Abunda - Senior Sales Manager Crystal Stephens - Senior Sales Manager New York Sales Office (646) 259-2651
Editorial/Sales Fax (212) 202-4888
For subscriptions, address changes or back issues, call: (646) 259-2651 newyorklifestylesmagazine.com Facebook: /NYLifestylesMag Twitter: @NYLifestylesMag Instagram: @NYLifestylesMag All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Printed in the USA. New York Lifestyles Magazine is published 11 times annually. © 2017 New York Lifestyles Magazine
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE “New York Lifestyles Magazine is a continuation of my passion to share news, information and lifestyle about where and how we live. This commitment reflects a positive approach to offering compelling features with the highest quality presentation. As executive publisher, I am proud of our professional staff and my family who are helping to reshape the way you read and enjoy this exciting magazine.”
I saw a man who could either touch a keyboard or someone’s hand and make beautiful music together. n this issue, we are paying a special tribute to the legendary Marvin Hamlisch in remembering his genius and genuineness. Our relationship dates back to the 1980’s when Marvin first invited me to co-host the Easter Seals Telethons in New York. I was honored and thrilled to join him during these live 20-hour television charity events to help so many people with disabilities to live, learn, work and play in our communities. Marvin was so deeply committed to making a difference in people’s lives through his inspiring music and generous philanthropy. I saw a man who could either touch a keyboard or someone’s hand and make beautiful music together. He was a friend that I will never forget and a role model always to be remembered. Thanks, Marvin!
-Ernie Anastos
Executive Publisher New York Lifestyles Magazine “Our City, Your Life”
Ernie Anastos is a celebrated author and distinguished Emmy award winning TV news legend in New York. He is recognized as a champion for promoting more positive news and an influential voice in the world of media. 12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
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JULY
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Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular East River macys.com/social
Taste of Times Square 46th St. (between Broadway & 10th Ave.) timessquarenyc.org
Big Apple Barbecue Block Party Madison Square Park bigapplebbq.org
National Puerto Rican Day Parade Fifth Ave. (44th to 79th Sts.) nprdpinc.org
Kevin Spacey is Clarence Darrow Arthur Ashe Stadium, Flushing kevinspacey.com/darrow
6
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Broadway Hits In The Park Bryant Park bryantpark.org
Solstice Sunrise Concert The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine paulwinter.com/summer-solstice Mermaid Parade Surf Ave. on Coney Island coneyisland.com/programs
18 th 25 th
Father’s Day Jazz Brunch Blue Note Jazz Club bluenote.net
Pride Sunday Fifth Ave. nycpride.org
14 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
15 th 24 th 30 th
City of Water Day Governor’s Island and other locations waterfrontalliance.org
NYC Restaurant Week Dining deals at some of the finest restaurants nyc.go/restaurant-week Harlem Week Various venues throughout Harlem harlemweek.com
PAUL LIFE AFTER
SHAFFER LETTERMAN By Pat Collins
or more than three decades Paul Shaffer was America’s favorite late night music man leading his band on both NBC’s Late Night With David Letterman and CBS’ The Late Show with David Letterman. His solo album Coast To Coast brought him his first Grammy nomination. His new album Paul Shaffer and The World’s Most Dangerous Band, recently released on Sire Records, features several guest stars including Bill Murray. If Mr. Murray’s rendition of “Happy Street” does not put you in a good mood, nothing will. Paul and his wife, Cathy—married 27 years—have two children. I recently asked Paul, who is currently on tour with the band, about his remarkable career. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 15
Who are some of the special guests on your new album? We start off with the great Jamaican dance hall toaster, Shaggy. Then we feature Dion (The Wanderer), Bill Murray (the movie star), Jenny Lewis (altcountry songstress), Darius Rucker (country star, formerly of Hootie and the Blowfish), and the incomparable Valerie Simpson (singer/writer extraordinaire). Why was there a 25-year gap between your first album and the new one? They liked my first album so much they asked me to do another one 25 years later! How and when did the World’s Most Dangerous Band get its name? David Letterman called us The World’s Most Dangerous Band during the early days of his show. He got the idea from the world of wrestling. The name got caught up in that whole late night wars mess, and we had to leave it behind when we changed networks with Dave, but we have now reclaimed it.
Paul Shaffer & the World's Most Dangerous Band album cover At what age did you begin taking piano lessons and were you more interested back then in playing baseball than playing the piano? I started piano lessons at age 6, with my mother saying, “When the kid can read English, he can start reading music.” I love baseball too and in fact, had a nightly game in my backyard. This lasted until I caught a high pop fly and it sprained my middle finger. That ended my baseball career. What role did Godspell composer Stephen Schwartz play in the early years of your career?
Paul Shaffer & the World's Most Dangerous Band
After graduating from the University of Toronto, I was gigging around town playing bars and accompanying my friends at auditions. A couple of girlfriends auditioned for the Toronto Company of the 70’s rock musical, Godspell. Stephen Schwartz, the composer, ended up hiring me to conduct the band. He also hired a cast of funny, talented kids, who remain my best friends to this day: Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Andrea Martin, Victor Garber, and the late great Gilda Radner.
David Letterman named us The World’s Most Dangerous Band during the early days of his show... we had to leave it behind when we changed networks, but we have now reclaimed it. 16 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Paul Shaffer & Bill Murray
Lorne Michaels arrived in town with a group of Canadians to create Saturday Night Live. One of his crew was Howard Shore who called me to play piano in the band since I was already in town. How did you become involved with Saturday Night Live? After Godspell in Toronto had ended, Stephen Schwartz moved me to NY to work for him on Broadway in The Magic Show in 1974. Then the following year, Lorne Michaels arrived in town with a group of Canadians to create Saturday Night Live. One of his crew was Howard Shore, now an Oscar-winning movie composer, then his musical director. Howard called me to play piano in the band since I was already in town. I naturally evolved into a writer of musical material since I already was friendly with members of the cast. I became a featured actor in the fifth season. Your friendship with David Letterman dates back to the early 1980’s. How did you two meet and did you envision Late Night’s continued success? In 1982, having left SNL with the original cast, I got a call from a producer asking me to come in for a meeting with David Letterman,
Paul Shaffer
Paul Shaffer and David Letterman regarding a possible job with him. We hit it off, and he hired me as his Musical Director. I was used to long runs, having spent a year on Broadway, and five years with SNL, but certainly neither Dave nor I anticipated a 33 year run together. You have worked with numerous and diverse artists including Diana Ross, Cyndi Lauper, and Cher. Describe how you and the band prepare for a recording session because no two sessions are alike. For our album, we started by programming the formats of the songs into a computer. This way we had a fixed time source with which to play. I then consulted with my long-time arranger and trombonist, Tom “Bones” Malone, who wrote arrangements for the songs. Then we went into Electric Lady Recording Studio and, using our computer program, and Tom’s charts proceeded to make the album. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17
I was used to long runs, having spent a year on Broadway, and five years with SNL, but certainly neither Dave nor I anticipated a 33 year run together. 18 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Paul Shaffer & Paul McCartney
Paul Shaffer & the World's Most Dangerous Band original members
When I am off, I try to hang out with my kids... Time with them is precious. A starring role on The Simpsons What was your role in the 1999 Olympic Games? In 1999, I was the Musical Director for the closing ceremonies of the Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta. I put together a group of stars including Gloria Estefan, Al Green, and The Pointer Sisters then gave a concert for the Olympiads, which was broadcast worldwide. When you have the rare day off what do you do to relax? When I am off, I try to hang out with my kids. Victoria is 24, living in the city, and Will, 18, is preparing to leave for college. Time with them is precious. What advice do you have for young people pursuing a career in music?
Paul Shaffer early days
In my case, show business seemed too far-fetched, and I was settling into college, trying to be an academic. With no musical outlet, I became very depressed. Then in the second year, having joined a jazz group on the side, I immediately cheered up. It was clear I had to try music. Luckily it worked out because it was the only thing I could have done to be fulfilled. • JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19
SWIMWEAR EXPOSÉ By Miki Makrillos
ake an unforgettable splash this summer with these figure flattering swimsuits. Simple solids and statement prints will make an impression on the beach or by the poolside. Stylish, coordinating cover-ups add the finishing touch for a polished swimwear ensemble.
AQUA BLU Luxe September Lace Kimono Waistband Drawstring and V-neck Front (aquablu.com.au)
AQUA BLU Back to Basics July Cut Out Top. Matching High Waist Fit and Front Gathering Bottom, Black (aquablu.com.au)
SALTY MERMAID The Brazil Collection Corset Cutie Spotted Samba (saltymermaid.com)
Photo Courtesy of Fox Swim 20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
FOX SWIM Dreamstate Shirt Dress, White (whitefoxboutique.com)
FOX SWIM Alani Bikini Top and Bottom, Dusty Pink (whitefoxboutique.com)
Photo Courtesy of Fox Swim
AQUA BLU FlowerBomb September Strap Front Bralette; Gathered Side-Detailed Bottom; and Swim Short Lycra Boardshort Fitted Bikini (aquablue.com.au)
FOX SWIM Mahia Bikini Top and Bottom, Midnight Star Print (whitefoxboutique.com)
FOX SWIM St Tropez One Piece, Steel (whitefoxboutique.com)
AQUA BLUE Papillon August Sweetheart DD Cup One Piece with Convertible/Removable Halter Strap. Savannah September Shorts with Elastic Waistband and Drawstring (aquablue.com.au)
AQUA BLU Phoenix October Ambrosia One Piece Deep V-Neck Front and Dipped Back (aquablu.com.au)
AQUA BLU Savannah September Maxi Dress Adjustable/ Convertible Straps (aquablu.com.au)
Photo Courtesy of Fox Swim
AQUA BLU Phoenix October Playsuit Halter with Waistband Drawstring (aquablu.com.au)
Photo Courtesy of Fox Swim
AQUA BLU Navigator July Nomad One Piece with Adjustable/Convertible Straps (aquablue.com.au)
FOX SWIM Whitefox One Piece (whitefoxboutique.com)
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 21
Beth Minardi and Blondes
COOL TIPS FOR HOT STYLES By Lori Simmons Zelenko
ith the arrival of warm, humid days, it’s time to take extra special care of your hair. Between sun and surf at the beach and wind and grit in the city, our hair is taking a beating this season. With this in mind, we caught up with uber colorist Beth Minardi at the Samuel Shriqui Salon who has the answers to looking good despite heat and humidity and all the other challenges Summer throws our way.
TAKE CONTROL Though Beth Minardi may count Brad Pitt and Christie Brinkley among her celebrity clients, she’s just as concerned about real life men and women maintaining their looks every day especially when the weather throws a curve ball. To that end, she offers a 360 of how to manage and control hair without damaging unruly locks. Beth is considered an eminence in salon color certainly for her exceptional training at Bristol-Myers and Clairol but also for truly knowing her craft; few others in the colorist arena can compare to her level of skill and excellent understanding of the properties of hair color. She was the first woman hairstylist to have her branded line of products which she learned how to create in the lab. But it is the quest for perfection and the need to keep evolving motivates her, not the celebrity of the moment. Genuinely authentic, a visit with Beth is a transformation and a fun, wonderfully enjoyable education.
Beth Minardi 22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
PROTECT HAIR “Deconstruct,” is her motto for Summer hair. Embrace the light, the heat, the humidity. Don’t fight it. But what’s most important is avoiding salt water or chlorine when it comes to preserving the integrity of your hair color. Swimming is no doubt an enjoyable exercise but destructive to the hair. Beth recommends: “Bring a bottle of club soda to rinse your hair after a dip, it dilutes the damaging effects.” And she adds, use Minardi Pre-Wash Conditioner as a veil against sunlight and condition as the day goes by. Blondes she feels can softly highlight the hair in the Summer, but, she says, “there is no need to ask your colorist to ‘do your roots,’ all over. Let that deeper root provide needed contrast.” And, at the start of the season, ask your colorist to add champagne or caramel threads: It will provide the eye-catching contrast that prevents a monochromatic look. “Enter into the season with sun-kissed streaks that look like the beach is already second nature,” Beth advises. “Just protect your hair as much as you can from the wear and tear of fun in the sun!”
HEALTHY LOCKS Beth strongly emphasizes to get a great cut in June, make sure hair is healthy with a trim and shaping but leave it be until September. Hiro, her colleague at Samuel Shriqui, who is known for his exceptional precision cuts, shares his point of view. Summer hair may be a little bit “messy,” but that does not mean the ends should be frayed or uneven. Healthy hair is consistently textured and shiny not brittle or dull even when “undone.” It’s the cut and color combo at the start of the season that lets you maintain the casualness of the “do” that looks so effortless. Remember UVA/UA rays and the environment itself stresses hair, why subject it to further trauma? “It is fine to wash your hair—even daily!” but she cautions, “do not go to bed with chlorine, salt or perspiration. Lather only once; leave-in conditioner is a must at all times, Beth insists. An impressive color conditioning system called EVO has a fabulous collection of Beige, Icy, or Caramel color refreshers, and the Fusio-Dose Ciment Treatment I apply after my color services, insures fortified, strong and protected hair.” But again, don’t do further damage with a metal barrel brush that rips the hair when it heats up. Use a Mason Pearson boar bristle brush or maybe a boar bristle with nylon. “Look on hair as if it is fiber. Stop tearing it up; it is not as strong or as thick as rope, acknowledge its fragility,” Beth reminds us. Preserve fragile hair by not scrubbing with a towel as excess rubbing and scrubbing lead to split ends. Skip the metal brush or comb.
COLOR YOUR WORLD Overall go for more depth and more warmth, recommends Beth, but she acknowledges that red, the cool burgundy shades, are harder to maintain when the weather heats up. Just as blondes need to avoid over-bleaching so do brunettes need to avoid brassiness. Color conditioners can help banish red tones, in fact, violet conditioners get rid of that orange tone that warps color after sun exposure. Hair needs moisture/protein replacement to survive. So, don’t apply Keratin Relaxers containing formaldehyde (it dehydrates) after May. Do so, and you risk a chemical burn to your hair. Although Samuel Shriqui Salon offers an excellent conditioning treatment that renews hair from the inside out but to follow up and maintain, Beth recommends at-home care as well. Struggling myself with a volume of fine, wavy hair often dry and brittle at the ends, I discovered in my search for the perfect conditioning system at home a brand called Milbon, Japan’s top salon brand for sleek, shining hair achieved by infusing each strand with protein. Positioned as an age-defying system of products, their new Enriched system, is “advanced anti-aging hair care designed especially for mature, colortreated hair.” Restoring youthful appearance and natural movement for hair (both coarse and fine) that is unmanageable and depleted from the combination of chemical and aging stress, Milbon works wonders. For more information on Milbon, visit milbon-usa.com.
QUICK TIPS FROM BETH • Embrace the Light Realize there is more opportunity for lightening of hair color so don’t rush into the season lighter and brighter; it will happen naturally. • Summer Hair Do Let it be loose and free. • Banish Brassiness Use a color conditioner to correct changing tones due to sun or sea exposure. Rinse with club soda after a swim to avoid damage as much as possible. • Adjust Your Color Don’t enter into warmer months with drastically darker or lighter hair than usual. Blondes, it’s OK to have roots this time of year—contrast is cool. • Treat Hair Kindly No scrubbing to towel dry. No metal brushes. Condition as much as possible.
Protect your investment says Beth Minardi. Don’t over wash your hair—multiple lathers are probably not necessary as a rinse of club soda can tide you over between shampoos. Cover up in the sun. Stop over-heating with hot tools for a scorching blow dry. Accept the fact that the best look for this time of year is free and easy, undone and casual. If you’re looking to put Beth Minardi’s recommendations into action, you can find her at Samuel Shriqui Salon (35 East 65th Street; 212-472-6805) or visit at bethminardi.nyc. • Lori Simmons Zelenko is the founder of LSZ COMMUNICATIONS. To drive sales and buzz, visit lzelenko.wixsite.com/lsz-communications or call 917-693-8602. ©2017 Lori Zelenko, All Rights Reserved. (Photo credit for portrait of Lori Zelenko: Leonardo de Vega) JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 23
THOSE WILDWOOD DAYS... STILL SHINE BRIGHT By Daniel J. Bollinger
Pan American Pool Time Fun Photo by David Howarth
he summer is here again and many families have already begun planning their vacations. The Wildwoods on the Jersey Shore is a popular destination located just 2 ½ hours from New York City. Morey’s Piers is a focal point that has it all – beachfront amusement park featuring 100 plus rides and attractions including two waterparks spread over 3 piers. Nearby restaurants, hotels and a bevy of attractions make for a happening area. It is easy to see why Morey’s Piers has been voted the “#1 Best Beach Boardwalk” by Family Vacation Critic. Mariner’s Pier, Surfside Pier and Adventure Pier all offer rides and great experiences. The two waterparks – Raging Waters Water Park and Ocean Oasis Water Park and Beach Club provide wet water fun for all ages. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 25
Pan American Penthouse
2017 ENHANCEMENTS Every year Morey’s updates and improves its operations and fun factor with new rides, restaurants, events and more. This year Morey’s enhancements will be even more visible. Morey’s hired a Philadelphia-based hospitality group specialized in personal dining experiences to consult on menu items, employee training and service, marketing as well as day to day food operations. Jack Morey likes to say, “We doubled down on food this year because we know that the food experience at Morey’s is a very important part of the overall experience with service being our #1 priority.”
Pan Am Construction
You can look for new menu items at all the eateries from the more formal restaurants like Alosi’s Bistro, The Royal Grille Café and Jersey Girl to traditional fanfare favorites like Taco Joint and Stubborn Brothers Beach Bar & Grille. Morey’s Piers is redefining boardwalk food, going beyond serving funnel cake and hot dogs. A trip to the piers will give you a full culinary experience, adding a dash of gastronomic flare to classic boardwalk fare. As far as the rides go, the Great Nor’Easter Roller Coaster ride, is now a custom designed suspended looping roller coaster comprised of 2,100 feet of twisted steel that takes you high over the Ocean Oasis waterpark, through a rollover, sidewinder, with double spin at speeds of up to 50 mph. That’s 5 upside down thrills! Morey’s invested in completely re-tracking this ride and even splashed new coats of paint on it. As family owner Jack Morey says, “The Great Nor’Easter is bluer, faster, and smoother this year.” 26 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Great Nor’Easter Roller Coaster
Pan American Motel Sign
The most significant update this year at Morey’s is the restoration and renovation of the penthouse at the Pan American Hotel, one of the most iconic structures since it was built in 1964. What makes this update significant is that there is a great amount of family nostalgia and history associated with the penthouse. As Jack says, “This is where it all started.” When the penthouse was built in 1971 it was built exclusively for Will and Jackye Morey to stay during the summers while they were running Morey’s and raising their children. “It was new for its time and the only thing on the beach at that time, which created a whole new area for development,” says Jack. The penthouse was inspired by the Americana Hotel in Miami Beach. Will and Jackye stayed at the Americana Hotel on their honeymoon and it left an indelible impression on them. Will’s first business partner, Fred Langford is actually the architect who designed the penthouse. Fred is also one of the first innovators and designers of water slides
and assisted greatly in designing/building Morey’s into what it is today. As a tribute to the passing of Will and Jackye and all the fond childhood memories of the penthouse that their children have from growing up in it, the Morey Family has decided that, “it was time to bring it back to it’s heyday, the glamour time of that era, we wanted to return it to those glamour days of James Bond, Austin Powers and Jackie O.” They have done that by completing a full restoration of the penthouse, re-installing some of the original design details like a round fireplace and also renovating with modern technology like flat screen tv’s and new appliances and systems. The interiors of the space are actually blends of octagons, which make for a series of separate art galleries. The Morey family hired famous photographer Kip Dawkins to create an art gallery in the penthouse made up of pictures of the area during this nostalgic time period. Throughout the space, there will be photo collages of old pictures of the area.
Spacious Surroundings
Luxe Living at The Jersey Shore
Modern Details Make It Special
Beautiful Ocean Views
The penthouse suite is a true residence spanning 2500 square feet. It is one of the best suites to stay in since it has views of both the whole boardwalk and the vast Atlantic Ocean. It has a host of amenities including an outside hot tub, enclosed dining terrace, as well as room service. The penthouse is actually a great space to host events or parties(think about a reception for a beach wedding) because of its large size and 360 degree views. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 27
PAN AMERICAN HOTEL
Will Morey Sr. and son Jack on the construction site of the Pan American
Will Morey Sr. and son Jack on the construct ion site of the Pan American
The Pan American Hotel itself is an oceanfront hotel featuring private balconies. It is known for its comfortable rooms, stunning swimming pool and its superior location, being in close proximity to the vibrancy of the boardwalk, Wildwood by night, as well as watersports. What truly makes the Pan American stand out is the level of service provided by its staff. It all starts at the top and trickles down the line. Jim Kelly is the general manager at the hotel and he is entering his 36th year with the family owned and operated organization. He has seen it all and knows what it takes to run a top-quality organization. He says “It’s all about being treated like family” and this is what he preaches to his staff and exhibits himself. He sees families coming back every year for decades because of the great service that is provided and the family fun that is always present. Jim goes on to say “I see next generations also visiting every year and I have followed parents bringing their children here to the parents becoming grandparents and their children bringing their children here. It’s a great honor to be part of a family that provides such fun and service that even the second generations of families come year after year.” Everyone is looking forward to another exciting summer at Morey’s Piers and the Pan American Hotel and remember as the saying goes “What happens at the beach gets laughed at all year long.” •
Jackye at Wildwood Crest’s Sun Ski School, which she and Wi set Lake ll owned
Will Morey Sr., Jackye, Will Jr., and Jack
Will’s wife Jackye helps wit h
28 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
construction
Jack with his father Will on the construction site of Pan American
beautiful beachfront luxury
Check your cares at the front desk and explore the oceanfront Pan American Hotel where our professional crew stands ready to meet your every need. Lovely first class rooms feature private balconies providing sweeping aerial views of the ocean. On the Beach at Crocus Road • 5901 Ocean Avenue, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 609.522.6936 • Visit us at www.PanAmericanHotel.com
A MOREY RESORT
Welcome to Harborside resort montauk
The Harborside Resort Montauk offers a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. On-premise pool and tennis, attractive rooms, studios, suites and efficiencies - each offering many amenities. Montauk is one of the beautiful resort destinations on the East Coast. Miles of breathtaking coastline, nature trails and preserves, varied watersports from famed surfing to water-skiing to whale watching.
World renowned fishing is found here, too as Montauk is well recognized as one of the top fishing capitals of the world. For beach lovers, we provide our guests’ access to Montauk’s finest ocean and sound beaches. And, golfers, bring your clubs and golf at the magnificent Robert Trent Jones designed Montauk Downs State Park located just one mile from the Harborside. You can enjoy the pleasure of
371 West lake dr. montauk, nY 11954 631.668.2511 montaukharborside.com
nearby horseback riding, being pampered at a marinotherapeutic spa, great shopping and a trip to our treasured beacon - the Montauk Point Lighthouse. Sample the gourmet delights of the finest restaurants, just a short walk or drive away. You will never be at a loss of things to do in Montauk - where a great vacation begins!
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE By Patricia Canole
chool’s out, and—at least for some—workloads are lighter, making summer a prime season for travel. However you get there, it’s an opportunity to bond and depending on your destination learn something new. Tasting exotic foods, learning foreign languages and visiting homes in other countries can be an eye-opening experience for a child--and an adult. Of course, discovering the world around us also extends to couples and friends. Travel is the best way to invent memories by experiencing new places, new cultures—together. For the young and young-at-heart, these trips are a sure guarantee to make life-long memories.
HAWAII Hawaii is the good life in a single word—but what makes the 50th State tops with vacationers year after year is that it’s one of those rare destinations you always want to revisit again and again. Relax at top-notch spas, where the pampering comes with a tropical twist. Or dine on gourmet food from contemporary Pacific Rim dishes to classic French cuisine. Crave adventure? The islands are full of opportunities for an adrenaline rush—both in the water and on land. Best of all, you can easily mix and match experiences by hopping from one isle to the next. But even if you only have time to visit a single island, there’s no need to miss out. Oahu has your name on it if you crave an urban pulse. From the lively beaches of Waikiki to award-winning restaurants, incredible spas, and museum, Oahu throbs with energy and elegance. If you seek out all that is trending, Maui is for you. Glamorous resorts are strung like pearls along its western shore. You’ll find plenty of snorkeling, diving and whale watching. Hiking the famous Haleakala Crater at sunrise transports you to an entirely different world. If you love going eco, Kauai will win you over with its green tropical rainforests and steep mountains. Take one of Hawaii’s best hikes along the emerald Na Pali coast. On the south shore, you’ll spend sunny days hiking the red earth of Waimea Canyon, dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific by Mark Twain himself. Then, there’s wondrous Big Island, land of spirits, where you can hike to a volcano spewing liquid glass or drive to the top of the Pacific’s tallest mountain. It’s an island of contrasts, of fire and ice, of exhilarating days and nights. For more information on Hawaii, go to gohawaii.com.
SOUTH AFRICA Spy exotic wildlife, sip fine wine, and lounge in luxury. South Africa is on a lot of traveler’s bucket lists right now—not just because it’s the continent’s most developed nation—but because it offers something for everyone. Wildlife lovers, beach bums, wine enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers will all be won over by its mystique. Start with a soft landing in laid-back Cape Town, gorgeously sandwiched between the Indian Ocean and Table Mountain, and enjoy some of the world’s top hotels and a vibrant culinary scene. Rent a car and head to the Cape Winelands to sample the local varietals. If time permits continue your exploration along the Garden Route—a trip into scenic bliss. Whitesand beaches rise into lush mountains, with lakes and amazing ocean vistas along the way. Still, don’t let South Africa’s coastal beauty (and wines) go so much to your head that you neglect the interior. Visit a Zulu village or get an up-close look at nature by hiking the jagged Drakensberg Mountains. And, of course, save time to shoot some big game—with a camera. Head into South Africa’s most famous park, Kruger, or its many smaller private preserves. Lush greenery gives the animals lots of places to hide. But be patient—it won’t be long before a herd of elephants comes ambling along. Lions by day and world-class meals at night: It’s no wonder this place is so popular! For more information on South Africa, go to southafrica.net. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 31
COSTA RICA Can you see yourself being strapped into a harness and sent careening—and screaming—across a treetop canopy of undulating green? If not, think again. Even as your guide latches you to the thick wire cable, you still might not be quite sure that you’ll go for it. A treetop canopy tour is just one of nature’s thrill rides on tap in Costa Rica, Central America’s most popular spot for eco-adventure. This vast swathe of rainforest has 25 national parks, four active volcanoes and is bounded by both the Atlantic and the Pacific, so there are lots of beaches, too. What doesn’t Costa Rica have? Attitude: It’s people, who call themselves Ticos, are some the warmest, most genuine you’ll meet anywhere. From heaping helpings of spicy rice and beans to fresh mangoes, the local cuisine is as allnatural as the landscape. And what a landscape it is: If you had enough time you could spot almost 1,500 species—from monkeys to manatees, sea turtles to sloths, and 10 percent of the world’s butterfly species. After a hike or a river kayak, you can slip into the soothing mineral waters at Tabacon Hot Springs and watch the glowing lava flow from Arenal Volcano. For more information on Costa Rica, go to visitcostarica.com.
FLORIDA Looking for sun, sand, and surf? Enter the Sunshine State. Whether your idea of a getaway involves cruising the Keys or taking in the sunset from the chic sands of South Beach, Florida is a fabulous place for everyone. If you crave prime beach, plunk your towel down along the sugar-white sands of the Florida Panhandle. Rent a cottage in the resort of Seaside and curl your toes in the sand so soft that it squeaks. For a bit of history, hop over to the Atlantic Coast and tour the Victorian mansions on Amelia Island, or step back in time on the well-preserved streets of nearby St. Augustine. Looking for action? Touchdown in Orlando, where thrill-a-minute theme parks and attractions abound and where Mickey, Minnie and friends take up residence. Miami has plenty of action, too—of the late-night kind. Do the Art Deco tour in South Beach by day, then move to the Latin Beat after dark at one of the city’s famed nightclubs. For upscale shopping and dining, nearby Palm Beach is as posh as it gets, while the cool-yet-casual Keys to the south offer the ultimate in kick-back time. For more information on Florida, go to visitflorida.com. 32 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
SET SAIL ON A CRUISE Hitting the high seas with your family is exciting and surprisingly affordable. Finding the right cruise for your getaway, however, takes a little bit of research and preparation. Here are some things to consider: • The Ship’s Style Cruise lines re a bit like people: Each has its own distinct personality. Some emphasize a high-energy, party-centric atmospheres, while others, focus on a quieter, more refined experience.
• The Itinerary Cruise Cruise ships can take you almost anywhere on the planet—from the Caribbean to Alaska or Europe to China—so explore all of your options before you settle on a route. When you’ve found a trip feel is right, go over the schedule carefully to see if allows enough time for exploring in each port of call. • Getting a Great Rate Cruise lines offer a host of discounts, so consider every angle when you’re looking for a deal. Look online; travel websites, such as Travelocity and Orbitz. Also. consider organizations you belong to, from AAA to an alumni/professional associations, to see if they’ve snagged any special deals for members. For a comprehensive list of all Cruise Lines, go to cruising.org.
AUSTRALIA Everything about Australia is big: the world’s sixth-largest country boasts the most beaches, the longest barrier reef, the largest monolith and fun-loving people. The only thing lacking is crowds: With few people to fill its vast spaces, the land Down Under is the perfect place to plan your vacation. Be sure to arrive in Australia with a sense of adventure. Sure, Sydney and Melbourne both have world-class hotels and restaurants, but with some 3,000 parks and preserves encompassing beaches, rain forests, mountains, deserts and unique wildlife, Australia is ideal for exploring. Head inland to the vast red outback and be awed by ancient Ayers Rock (Uluru). To hike and river raft amid lush, green landscape, visit the eastern coast, home to the dense Daintree National Park. Just offshore lies the astounding Great Barrier Reef, where you can dive and snorkel its underwater kaleidoscope. You can also check out Tasmania’s beautiful mountains and coastline or mix with kangaroos on Fraser Island. Best of all exploring and enjoying nature throughout Australia doesn’t mean roughing it. Tasmania’s eco-lodges and the Outback’s camps are all set up with families in mind. For more information on Australia, go to australia.com. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 33
CALIFORNIA The gold rush may be over, but the state that sparked the fever still shines for vacationers. Miles of gorgeous coastline, from sophisticated San Francisco to laid-back San Diego, invite you to get behind the wheel. Mountains offer hiking trails while spare deserts are sprinkled with indulgent oases. If pop culture is your thing, head straight for the glamour of Hollywood or the dream factory that is Disneyland. For sheer fun in an urban setting, hop on a cable car in San Francisco. The City by the Bay has tons of culture, and unbeatable sights: The Golden Gate Bridge looks magical in the moonlight. Escape to Napa and Sonoma for a chance to tour a winery. In Los Angeles there’s no limit to what you can try. Take in the masters at the Getty Museum or spot heavenly bodies in Hollywood. And just two hours south, you can talk to the animals at the world-famous San Diego Zoo. That enduring litter in California is a lot more than gold. For more information on California, go to visitcalifornia.com.
IRELAND How abundant the gifts that Ireland has given to the world: poetry and prose, including the words of Yeats and Joyce; a treasure trove of music ranging from the Irish Tenors to U2; food and drink—what would we ever do without pints of Guinness? But the best way to see Ireland’s many gifts is to head straight to the source for a trip that’s a real feast for the senses. Begin your stay in fair Dublin, the friendliest capital in the world. Explore the rugged hills and lakes of the north or the rolling pastures of County Waterford in the south. Revel in the great outdoors along the scenic Ring of Kerry, home to hiking, horseback riding, and golf. Marvel at the epic rock formations that make up the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim. And wherever your travels take you, be sure to pop into a pub or two to learn why Ireland’s natives are the most entertaining storytellers on the planet. For more information on Ireland, go to discoverireland.com. 34 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
LIFE’S A BEACH! Surprisingly, you don’t have to go too far to find the perfect stretch of sand. The Northeast ranks tops with some of the most beautiful beaches in the nation. Here, our picks for a summer full of fun!
• Cape Cod, Massachusetts North of Boston is the national seashore of Cape Cod, a peninsula without bedrock—it is all sand. After years of neglect, the Cape Cod National Seashore was created in 1961. It encompasses 40 miles from Chatham to Provincetown, much of it private property and five public beaches (with parking lots). No camping is allowed except on privately owned campgrounds. From June through the fall, the National Park Service conducts guided tours and evening lectures. There are plenty trails, bike trails, and working lighthouses to keep everyone occupied during the day. For more information on Cape Cod, go to capecodchamber.org.
• Long Island, New York Head to The Hamptons, Quogue, Southampton, and Montauk located on the East End of Long Island—where you can enjoy some of the most beautiful ocean beaches along the eastern seaboard. Though many of the beaches require seasonal or temporary passes (most inns/hotels provide these for guests), the restrictions often have to do with parking rather than foot access. Southampton and East Hampton are the most expensive for dining and lodging and are the best locations for catching sight of the A-list set. Hampton Bays and Montauk have the highest concentration of inexpensive motels and also offer the best opportunities for fishing and boating. On weekends, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, be prepared for lots of traffic. But when the sun shines on the miles of pristine sand and the various village greens and fabulous homes nearby, who minds an extra 45 minutes in traffic! For more information on Long Island, go to discoverlongisland.com.
ARIZONA From the imposing cliffs of the Grand Canyon to the luxe resorts of Scottsdale, Arizona is the wide-open American West personified. With its proud Native American and Spanish influences, it’s also the closest you can come to experiencing a foreign culture without leaving the continental U.S. A visit to Phoenix/Scottsdale means perfect weather and world-class golf courses. The area is also home to lavish spas with a distinctly Southwestern flair (desert nectar honey wrap, anyone?) as well as fabulous restaurants. Further afield, tiny towns, once mining centers, are now artists’ colonies. Check out quirky, lovable places like Jerome for a unique blend of small town ambiance and creative excellence.
• Cape May, New Jersey This small island at the tip of New Jersey is the nation’s oldest beach resort—and a world away from other seaside towns along the Jersey shore. Over 600 Victorian houses, and white-sand beaches covered in wild beach plum shrubs and dune grass, make Cape May a perfect seaside getaway. Wander down the Promenade along Cape May’s town beach, or climb to the top of Cape May Lighthouse for a view of the place where the Atlantic Ocean meets Delaware Bay. Sightings of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are not at all unusual. Or if you’re not up to the arduous climb, search through the pebbles of nearby Sunset Beach for “Cape May Diamonds”—bits of wave-washed quartz that shine brilliantly when polished. The park also offers the Cape May Migratory Bird Refuge, a bird sanctuary, where hundreds of species find rest and food while on their spring/ fall migrations.
Then there’s Arizona’s natural beauty—not only the Grand Canyon but also the legendary red rocks of Sedona, the start landscape of the Petrified Forest and the stunning vistas of the Painted Desert. Even the mountains have evocative names like Superstition and Squaw Peak. Famed Camelback rises in its eponymous shape right in the heart of Phoenix. And around it spreads the surprisingly lush desert. Ride horseback past ancient Indian petroglyphs, pan for gold along a hidden stream or hop in a jeep for an off-road adventure past blossoming cacti.
For more information on New Jersey, go to visitnj.org.
For more information on Arizona, go to visitarizona.com. • JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35
BISTRO • SALON & SPA • RESTAURANT • MEETINGS • EVENTS • WEDDINGS APARTMENT-LIKE, LIFE STYLE SUITES, ROOF-TOP ENTERTAINING, EXCEPTIONAL GUEST EXPERIENCES.
Discover one of the big city’s favorite destinations where you’ll find yourself nestled within walking distance to everything. European elegance in the heart of Saratoga Springs and footsteps from the best shopping, site-seeing and destination amenities that only Saratoga and the Pavilion Grand Hotel can offer. Melt your cares away at Make Me Fabulous, downtown’s premier salon and spa, cozy up with a glass of wine and artisan cheeses at the Blue Peacock Bistro or dine with delight with innovative specialty dishes from Fish at 30 Lake Restaurant, a premier “Ocean to Table” seafood restaurant, all businesses located on site. Discover more at www.paviliongrandhotel.com and see for yourself a hotel that is simply...
like no other!
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SUMMER IN SARATOGA SPRINGS By Patricia Canole
or history lovers, it is an important site of the Revolution and to some of the most elaborate Victorian architecture in the land. To those seeking a bit of relaxation, it is a resort town, famed for its healing waters. For the musical set, it is a symphony of first-rate classical, jazz, rock and folk. And to the equine followers, for six weeks every Summer, it is Mecca. Welcome to Saratoga Springs. A place like none other in Upstate New York. How did this town—less than 3 hours from New York City—come to be a Summer favorite with so many visitors?
IT STARTED WITH WATER
Saratoga Race Track
Saratoga Polo
Long revered by Native Americans for their medicinal qualities, the springs at Saratoga, bubbling from a fault lying beneath the foothills of the Adirondacks were discovered by European settlers in the late 18th century, and it wasn’t long before a community developed. Word spread, and soon a steady stream of well-heeled visitors flowed in to partake of the waters. The tourist trickle increased in the 1860s, when John Morrissey introduced horse racing and gambling to the area, ushering in Saratoga’s golden age. Manhattan’s moneyed elite—the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Whitneys—quickly made the town their hideaway. Elaborate mansions appeared on the avenues, with massive colonnades, wraparound stone porches, balconies, gables, and cupolas. A century later, the ghosts remain--as does one descendant of those gilded days—“the season.” Six days per week for 40 racing days from Friday, July 21 to Monday, September 4, all life here revolves around the thoroughbred and Saratoga Race Track. The town’s population triples. Top horses ridden by the best jockeys in the country race for large purses – there are 69 stakes races with purses totaling $19 million with the featured race being the $1.25 million Travers Stakes on Saturday, August 26. The one thing that threatens to upstage the horses is the endless fashion show of spectators, whose days and nights blend in a blur of black-tie dinners and Champagne breakfasts. Need more horses? Saratoga Casino Hotel boasts one of the most beautiful half-mile tracks in the country. Enjoy live harness racing nestled amongst a variety of dining options, a gaming facility with over 1,700 slots, one of the hottest night clubs in the capital region and a newly opened hotel. Another Saratoga horse tradition that spans over a century is the fast-paced action of Saratoga Polo (Friday and Sundays July 7-September 3) when the ponies take the field, and the fans enjoy this favorite pastime on historical grounds from the grandstands or the elegant clubhouse. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 37
MOUNTAIN MUSIC When the horses rest, the crowd still plays. Though the atmosphere remains decidedly small-town, Saratoga is home to entertainment. For starters, the iconic Saratoga Performing Arts Center(SPAC) hosts the Saratoga Jazz Festival – the longest-running jazz festival in the country showcasing music legends, and up-and-coming artists who fill two stages on June 24 and June 25. Chaka Khan and Gipsy Kings are just a sampling of the talent that will be performing. SPAC will again be the Summer home to two longtime residents, the New York City Ballet (July 5-15) and the Philadelphia Orchestra (August 2-19). New this season will be “SPAC on Stage” featuring headliners including Hot Sardines—one of the best jazz bands in New York City. What makes this so innovative and exciting is the entire audience is on stage with the performers. Summer at Skidmore College is filled with music, dance and art events along with its famous writer’s workshop. Take advantage of the evening readings featuring noted authors including Darryl Pinckney (July 5) and William Kennedy (July 28) as part of the New York State Summer Writers Institute, hosted by Skidmore College. Also, for contemporary art exhibitions, head to the Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery on the Skidmore campus. The building, designed by renowned architect Antoine Predock, houses four galleries with world-class exhibitions. For a complete Summer at Skidmore events calendar, visit skidmore.edu.
SPAC on Stage - HotSardines ©Joseph Cultice Swan Lake, Choreography George Balanchine ©The George Balanchine Trust, New York City Ballet
Saratoga is also abundant in culture and history as well. Its National Museum of Dance is the only one of its kind in the country. The Historical Society of Saratoga Springs— located in a one-time casino—preserves a gaming room of that era. The museum also displays the artifacts of the amazing Walworth family which also houses the Ann Grey Gallery. Younger travelers will love the interactive Children’s Museum. Yaddo Gardens
HIT THE TRAILS For those who enjoy being outdoors in the Summer, you’ll find plenty of great outdoor activities and places to stroll in Saratoga. Start exploring the treelined streets of East Side with their spectacular estates; Congress Park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted; and Yaddo Gardens, an artist’s retreat. And, of course, there’s Saratoga National Historical Park for its re-enactment of Revolutionary War battles. Water sports are abundant on area lakes, rivers and canal ways, and can be enjoyed through kayaking, canoeing, boating, fishing, and swimming. There are over a dozen golf courses in the area including the award –winning Saratoga National Golf Club. There are also many trails for biking and hiking.
Saratoga National Historical Park 38 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Numerous festivals and events take place this Summer, including the Saratoga County Fair, Saratoga Balloon & Craft Festival, All-American Celebration, Hats Off to Saratoga, and so much more.
PLEASING THE PALATE There’s plenty to please every taste bud with all types of restaurants serving burgers to five-star cuisine. There’s the Olde Bryan Inn, a favorite among locals. At down-home Hattie’s, in operation since the late 1930s, jazz and R&B provide the backdrop mouthwatering Southern dishes. For an upscale menu, try Siro’s which won’t disappoint. Finally, The Parting Glass. Yes, it’s serves up shepherd’s pie and Guinness on tap, but it’s more than your typical Irish pub. It’s a beacon for most everyone who passes through Saratoga, from ballerinas to rock stars to regular Joes. This is the perfect place to raise a parting glass to the little town that has everything—and then some. Of course, this is just a sampling of the fare offered in Saratoga. There are a multitude of other fine eateries along Broadway.
Pavilion Grand Hotel
Gideon Putnam Hotel
WHERE TO STAY The Pavilion Grand Hotel (paviliongrandhotel.com) is located downtown in the heart of Saratoga Springs. The original Pavilion Hotel, built in 1819, was known as the most opulent of its time. Today, the all-new Pavilion Grand Hotel distinguishes itself with the highest level of guest service, over-sized condo-style suite accommodations. Some of the larger suites feature three bathrooms and private balconies, or beautiful rooftop gardens. Amenities include a fitness center, Salon and spa, a Bistro, and the popular Fish at 30 Lake restaurant with its daily menu of fresh offerings from the sea. Experience a bygone era at the Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa (gideonputnam.com), the city’s historic hotel, features Georgianstyle rooms and where guests can still “take the waters” at the adjacent Roosevelt Baths & Spa, in naturally restorative mineral waters in the WPA-era bathhouse. Nestled in the peaceful Saratoga Springs Spa State Park, it’s convenient to the park’s golf course. Other amenities include a full-service spa, fitness center, and restaurant/bar. The rooms are comfortable and have mini-fridges and Keurig coffeemakers and a solid choice for repeat guests. For more information on Saratoga Springs and all it has to offer, visit saratoga.org. • JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 39
S A RATOGA , NY
THE PERFECT
getaway.
Enjoy great horse racing, golf, polo matches, and national historic sites. We have world class music and dance performances, and so many places to eat, drink and make merry. Choose from lovely country inns, historic bed and breakfasts, full service resorts, or your favorite chain hotel. You’ll find us so very accommodating.
1-800-526-8970 • ilovesaratoga.us
Two ways to stay and play.
Private sandy beach • Heated indoor/outdoor pools • BBQ grills • Fitness center • Water’s edge dining at the famed Boathouse Restaurant
OAK TREE LODGE A P R I VAT E R E S I D E N C E C L U B
Gorgeous Adirondack lodges with breathtaking lake views. Two bedrooms and two full baths with fully applianced kitchens. Accommodations for up to 6 people, large great rooms with queen sized pull out sofa beds, covered front porches, whilrpools and gas fireplaces.
Luxurious 1,500 sq. ft., Two bedroom, Two full bathroom lodges. (One bedroom and hotel room options available). Lodge amenities include king beds in both bedrooms, a steam shower, 2 person jacuzzi tub, large flat screen TVs, garage parking, turn down service and access to game room. Indoor spa pool to be completed in the fall of 2017.
lakegeorgelodges.com • 800-853-1632 3210 Lake Shore Drive, Lake George, NY • Rt. 9N 1 mile north of Lake George Village
Photo by Jeff Fusco
LET FREEDOM RING By Michael Alpiner
he smoky scent of gunpowder and the triumphant chirp of the fife and drum are still present upon the cobblestone streets and within the stoic Georgian Colonial homes that epitomize a journey to Historic Philadelphia. A short twohour drive (a week on horseback or carriage ride in 1776) will take you the 97 miles from New York City to Philadelphia. The city has a variety of moods and appearances: One doorway in Philadelphia can offer a slice of American history, a portal to the past where British colonialism and subjugation met resistance from a nation starving for freedom. Another doorway might lead the traveler to satisfy a different kind of hunger by indulging in a famous cheesesteak, deliciously unhealthy lest you find the nutritional value within a splash of Cheez Whiz. My cheesesteak choice is Jim’s South Street (jimsouthstreet.com), a hipster hangout. On a Friday or Saturday night, South Street pulses like a decadent beacon where pedestrians are anything but pedestrian, populating the clubs and cafes, retail stores, music and comic book shops.
WALK THROUGH HISTORY Philadelphia’s blend of the stoic and historical, the diversity and acceptance, and the openness and pride are in itself the story of America. This story is beautifully and artistically told in the new Museum of the American Revolution (amrevmuseum.org), which opened its doors earlier this year, and was celebrated by a moving speech from former Vice-President, Joe Biden before a crowd on the steps leading into the grand foyer of the museum. Inside, visitors can walk through the chronological path of history via a multimedia and sensory experience that includes artifacts and wax facsimiles of those who contributed to the rich tale of the birth of our nation. Displays commemorate the Continental Congress, the Boston Tea Party, the weaponry as well as the poetry of the Revolution, a portrait of General Washington painted by Charles Willson Peale, some video presentations including one in which the viewer is immersed in the sounds, lights and smoke of battle. Included as well, under somber illumination, behind the glass of austere remembrance, hangs a pair of manacles resembling iron-rimmed glasses, the size fit for the innocent wrists of a child sold or born into slavery, a weighty reminder of our tainted past. The best was saved for last. A film presentation (oddly, not narrated by Morgan Freeman) told the history behind the tent where George Washington forged so many wise battle plans and spent so many restless nights. After the film, a curtain rose with much of the same drama that introduced King Kong to an eager New York audience. There in all of its linen majesty was George Washington’s actual tent, impressively preserved over the centuries. Ironically, it was protected from destruction during the Civil War by Robert E. Lee’s enslaved housekeeper, Selina Norris Grey. 42 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Valley Forge Hut
Grand Staircase at Museum of American Revolution
Valley Forge National Park
HISTORY AROUND EVERY CORNER The story is not complete without a tour of some historic homes, where authenticity itself is a storyteller. The Stenton House (stenton.org) is the homestead of James Logan; linen merchant turned fur trader turned statesman, who became William Penn’s secretary and later protégé to Benjamin Franklin (who often stayed at Stenton). The artifacts from his life as a Quaker, scholar, and prominent political figure are plentiful, from rare books to textiles to American and European furnishings. Another historic home worthy of a visit is The Cliveden House (cliveden.org), home to the Chew family, and one of the most authentically intact examples of Colonial wealth and prominence. The history of the house parallels the themes of America, both the quest for success and the struggle for freedom. It is bittersweet to stroll through the impressive halls and rooms (for Benjamin Chew was a lawyer, associate of William Penn and protégé of Alexander Hamilton) yet not know that much of the family’s financial advantage was earned on the backs of the enslaved and indentured. The keystone of a trip to Historic Philadelphia is a tour of Valley Forge National Park (nps.gov/vafo). The site of a six-month encampment in 1777, Valley Forge has stood a symbol of American resilience as well as a testament to the spirit of diversity and inclusion that has always muscled itself through tough times. Within the log and mud huts, a dozen men, black and white, shared a claustrophobic living space where color lines were blurred behind the bane of universal suffering: the severe cold, the lack of supplies, sickness, and the dearth of food. Women also served vital roles, caring for the sick, carrying supplies, washing, foraging for food, at half the soldier’s already meager rations. Native Americans, mostly from the Oneida tribe, encamped here as well and rounded out the ten thousand patriots who eventually caused the British retreat. A day of historical reflection would not be complete without a meal at City Tavern Restaurant (citytavern.com) where the staff is dressed in period garb, the furnishings modeled in the colonial style, and the food and drink reminiscent of the sustenance of our nation’s early years. Excellent brews can be imbibed at 2nd Story Brewing Company (2ndstorybrewing.com) which offers a wide variety of potent potables and a tasty, yet casual dining experience. For the wine connoisseur, I suggest stopping by Pinot Boutique (pinotboutique.com) for sample tastings, classes, accessories, snacks, and hopefully an armful of their local vintage. A stay at the Penn’s View Hotel (pennsviewhotel.com) promises modest accommodations but excellent dining at their Panorama Restaurant and vast wine cellar. On my return trip to New York City, I held onto the spirit of Historic Philadelphia and experiencing the rich portrait of that history; I feel like I have a better sense of the quality of the rest of my journey as an American. For more information on Historic Philadelphia, go to visitphilly.com. • Michael Alpiner has been an English teacher in New York City for the past 29 years. Michael has published work in Jewish Currents, Soul Fountain, Light, New Work Review, and Blood to Remember (an anthology of Holocaust-related poetry).
THE WARWICK HOTEL: ROSEBUD REDUX By Gretchen Kelly
ith the two-year closure of the Waldorf Astoria and the essential demise of The Plaza from its original state. The Warwick remains one of the only vintage-feel, classic hotels in New York City. The Warwick was built in 1929 by Citizen Kane himself, William Randolph Hearst, and was built with a wicked little secret. The primary purpose of The Warwick was to house Hearst’s mistress, Marion Davies (Orson Welles got the “Rosebud” reference from his nickname for her). Together, Hearst and Davies used their “love nest” to throw extravagant parties with their famous friends.
REFINED PLEASURE I checked into the Warwick, whose original 1929 building takes pride of place in discreet but Orson Welles-ian majesty at the corner of 54th Street and Sixth Avenue. The Warwick Group’s new loyalty program, Warwick Journeys, which moves guests up the tiers in an “accelerated program” full of surprise amenities and incentives along the way, granted me honorary Black Level status and a sleek Moleskin “Journeys” notebook on check-in. I grabbed my little journal and made my first stop: Randolph’s Bar and Lounge, the hotel’s popular Sixth Avenue-side bar named after Citizen Kane himself. The buzz comes from media execs, bankers, and other Hearst-size power brokers who come to bend an elbow here with classic cocktails from the MadMen-era of the three martini lunch. I ordered The Marion cocktail (named after Hearst’s mistress) a lovely, light cucumber drink in a martini glass. Dinner would have made either Orson Welles or Hearst happy: Steak Frites with Peppercorns and a glass of pinot noir. My partner had a Citizen Kane (recipe included here!) that would have done justice to both WRH and Orson.
SUITE RETREATS On retiring for the night, I made myself at home in a corner suite much like the hotel’s four specially decorated ones: The Follies (named after the Ziegfeld girls who stayed here), The Marion (Ms. Mistress), The Randolph (Kane, himself) and The Modern (named after the Museum around the corner). Some of these suites have excellent outdoor balconies where you can feel like Hearst himself lording it over the eternal lights of the traffic on Sixth Avenue. You can also request the suite that was, for many years, Cary Grant’s New York apartment—imagine the ghostly but dapper ghost that could appear in that room. The rooms are large with a human-sized dimension much loved by architects of the 20s and 30s and joy of joys, there’s an actual bathtub in the marble bathroom—something becoming more and more of a rarity in modern hotels but very much a luxury to be savored. My Black Level status bestowed one of the Warwick Journeys surprise amenities on me: A bottle of wine and some savory cheese that I snacked on while using my other comfort, a bit more modern than in Hearst’s day, free WiFi (which was glitch-free and fast). In the morning, there was more Hearst-iana in the form of breakfast at Murals on 54th, the large restaurant used only for that meal and named after the 1937 Dean Cornwell murals of Queen Elizabeth and her courtiers that include a seductive little secret. Hearst commissioned the artist to paint the murals before a payment dispute encouraged him to add in risqué details like Hearst’s mistress’ face (and naughtier bits, it is said). He painted out the off-color bits only after getting his final payment, but Marion’s face remains on one of the ladies in waiting (she must have done a lot of waiting for WRH). Get one of the waiters to point her pouty visage to you while you sup on Smoked Salmon and Eggs Benedict.
44 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
A TOAST TO THE PAST To keep the William Randolph Hearst-Marion Davies memory alive, sip some magical cocktails in the comfort of your own abode.
THE MARION 2 oz. Effen Cucumber Vodka .75 oz. Simple syrup .75 oz. Lime juice 3 Cucumber discs 7-8 Cilantro leaves Muddle cucumber, tear cilantro leaves, and add remaining ingredients; shake with ice and strain into a Martini glass. Garnish with cucumber disc.
WHEN YOU STAY Introductory members in Warwick Journeys get free WiFi on their first stay at any of the groups’ participating hotels. The membership then moves up the tiers from Purple to Gold to Black. Black Level members receive guaranteed availability with a 24-hour notice of arrival when booking the member-exclusive rate. Also, welcome drink for up to two people per day during their stay, complimentary breakfast for up to two people per stay. There’s early check-in at 11 am (based on availability); a private guest services contact, which serves as a dedicated concierge for Black Level members. They also get surprise treats along the way, perhaps much as Hearst himself would leave little gifts for his “Rosebud” at the Warwick. For more information on The Warwick Hotel, visit warwickhotels.com. • Gretchen Kelly writes on travel and hotels for The New York Post, TravelwithVal.com, Frommers. com, and many other websites and publications. She has appeared on FOX5’s Good Day New York, BBC Worldwide News and Bloomberg News. She’s been to over 80 countries.
THE CITIZEN KANE 2 oz. Sipsmith Gin .75 oz. Lemon juice .75 oz. St. Germain .5 oz. Aperol or Campari Lemon peel twist Rosebud garnish Combine ingredients and shake with ice; strain into Martini glass. Add a lemon peel twist and rosebud garnish.
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 45
NORTHERN LIGHTS By Patricia Canole
ction-packed days of hiking. Endless hours of shopping. Easy nights under the stars. Hotels and resorts you’ll want to call home. Outdoor cafes, French baguettes, and a whole lot of Mother Nature. Decide on a getaway in Quebec City, and you get the best of all worlds. Tucked up in the great white north, here’s a shining star that is enough to warm your hearts—anytime of year!
PLAY TIME Picture a walled city with narrow cobblestone streets, old stone buildings, impressive chateaus and you have the setting. Though French is the official language of the Quebecois, most all speak English, though a friendly “bonjour” always helps set the tone. Be prepared to walk in Quebec with the assurance that there is always a café nearby in which to cool your heels. Have café au lait and croissants at one of the many cafes on St. Jean Street before taking a walking tour of Vieux Quebec, the old walled city. Start by strolling along the scenic boardwalk on Terrasse Dufferin overlooking the St. Lawrence. You will pass the Citadelle, the 19th century military outpost, before reaching Parc des Champ-de-Bataille including the spectacular Plains of Abraham, where the British and French once battled for the city. Shift altitudes and ride the funicular from Terrasse Dufferin—or if you’re really athletic take the steep staircase—down to the PetitChamplain quarter near the harbor. The oldest area in town, Petit-Champlain boasts shops and cafes aplenty lining narrow cobblestone streets. If you’re lucky enough to be in Quebec City August 9th thru 13th, you’ll want to participate in the Les Fetes de la Nouvelle-France (New France Festival) and don a 17th-century costume and parade through the city’s streets. (You’re still welcome to the fun and festivities if you forget your period costume.) This annual celebration honors those who first settled in the Quebec environs. When you’ve had enough of the city and long for wide-open spaces, explore the countryside along the North or South Shores of the St. Lawrence River., where quaint villages, picturesque farms, and small inns recall the early days of New France. Just 15-minutes away is Ile d’Orléans, which remains a peaceful, slow-paced world apart from the bustling city. Touring the island and its charming historic villages is an easy drive, since the circumference is a mere 40 miles. While here, take in a lunch at Le Moulin de Saint-Laurent for its exceptional regional cuisine. Be sure to try the wild game terrine and chicken liver pate to start. Then dine on a delicious veal stew with filo pastry and mushroom. Along the way is the spectacular Montmorency Falls. The centerpiece of a park, the huge stunning waterfall cascades 272 feet downward (one and a half times as high as Niagara Falls). During the winter, the waterfall freezes into a giant cone of ice. The site also affords romantic lookout points and a picnic area. No matter what time of year, take in a visit to Mont-Ste-Anne Park, which is dominated by a 2,699-foot high mountain carved with trails. Well-known within the ski community as an international ski center, it is also a prime spot for golf, mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. Don’t miss taking a cable car to the summit for a breathtaking view of the St. Lawrence River and coastline. 46 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Ile d’Orléans
FUN FACTS Did you know…
Quebec City’s Chateau Frontenac is the most photographed hotel in the world?
KICK UP YOUR HEELS
Quebec contains more than three percent of the world’s fresh water reserves.
The gorgeous Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac (fairmont.com) is the icon of Quebec City, and you can’t visit the city without at least stepping in. Start a romantic evening with a walk through the castle and a cocktail at the firstfloor Bar St-Laurent and Lounge. Of course, restaurants are everywhere, and the food is so good—and so French—that you just might forget Paris is all the way on the other side of the Atlantic. Also special within the Quebec City region is Restaurant Toque and a menu of some unforgettable French entrees. The modern dining room is tres chic. Try the duck magret with mushroom consommé. Wherever you sit, say “oui” to duck foie gras and caribou steak with peppercorn sauce, and don’t forget the blackberry crème brulee for a sweet dessert. For more casual fare, there’s Le Cochon Dingue where you’ll find a menu of such favorites including croissants, baguettes and unfussy food that’s easy on the palate.
Quebec’s forest covers more than the size of Sweden and Norway combined? This represents 20 percent of the Canadian forests and two percent of the world’s forests.
SWEET DREAMS
Quebec City is the only walled city north of Mexico and was the first in North American to be placed on UNESCO’s Word Heritage Sites.
Auberge Saint-Antoine
With its imposing castle-like architecture and prime location overlooking the river, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is a must. The hotel offers a variety of affordable packages, including several honeymoon deals that will pamper you with such romantic perks as chocolates and bubbly while still managing to give your budget a break. For those who want the Lower Town, opt for a stay at Auberge Saint-Antoine (saint-antoine.com) a Relais & Chateau hotel. This former warehouse has been transformed into a charming, well-run inn along the waterfront. Each room is different—though all have private baths—and some are bigger than others. For more information on Quebec City and its environs, visit quebecregion.com • JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47
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NOTES FROM DB By Daniel J. Bollinger he first week of May produced the lowest amount of luxury contracts since 2011. The second week of May produced 37 signed contracts in the luxury market which tied for the best week of 2017. But luxury residences spent an average of 413 days on the market. Depending on who you speak to about the luxury market you will get differing opinions. At a recent conference made up of a panel of developers, all the discussion entailed “everything is fine” commentary. But at another conference of brokers the study implied more of a “time to negotiate,” and a move to a “new reality” in this environment of “aspirational pricing.” Who is correct? Our free market capitalist system will ultimately decide, but if you keep abreast of list prices and sold prices, you will see the primary macroeconomic tenant of (over)supply vs. demand is alive and well. A more pressing issue in the NYC real estate market today is Zillow’s Premiere Agent advertising program. I have been using this new service to report on it—and I’m not impressed at all. The one event that solidified my opinion was this: I received a buyer lead on a coop that the listing agent was not co-broking. Purchasing a service that feeds you buyer leads and getting leads on listings where there is no buyer-side commission is simply wasting my time. Dear Zillow, Why are you feeding me leads for buyer agent status on apartments for sale where the listing broker isn’t co-broking the commission? I
have paid you to waste my most precious resource, time. The underlying issue is not with Zillow and the Premier Agent service. Sure, Zillow can tighten up their listings database to make sure all Premiere Agent leads are on listings a listing broker is offering a co-broke. They can also require that listings be advertised by only REBNY members (which would ensure a more transparent transaction). The real issue is why does NYC not have an MLS in place? New York City: the center of the world, the safest real estate investment location in the world, the city that never sleeps, the premier destination for investment as a safeguard for capital appreciation of assets and yields cannot implement an MLS system? This conjures some statements about NYC and the real estate industry (both good and bad). Many prominent brokers in the business have expressed their displeasure about the Premiere Agent program. I would love to see NYC create an MLS to help clean up a lot of “goings on” in the industry but mostly for the benefit of the consumer. This climate reinforces that a buyer should work with a knowledgeable, experienced buyer agent. • Daniel Bollinger Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Halstead Real Estate DanielJBollinger@Yahoo.com Luxury NYC Real Estate Expert JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49
THROUGH THE LENS Photography By AnnieWatt.com
AMERICAN HUMANE FIRST TO SERVE HERO DOGS AWARD KICKOFF
Cpl. Jeff DeYoung, MWD Cena
SHUBERT FOUNDATION MTI BROADWAY JUNIOR MIDDLE SCHOOL FINALE 2017
Freddie Gershon, Robert E. Wankel, Chad Kimball, Rodney Hicks, Michael I. Sovern, Peter Avery
LENOX HILL NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE
Charlie Ayers, Sarah Ayers, Ann Marie Sevin, Thomas Edelman, Ingrid Edelman, Tony Dube, Kimberly Callet, Eric Sevin
Dr. Robin Ganzert, Stella Lenox Hill Neighborhood House Gala Freddie Gershon, Myrna Gershon, Drew Cohen
Jean Shafiroff, Susan Cushing, Lois Pope, Alex Donner, Dr. Robin Ganzert, Amanda Bowman, Ronnie Perl, Abigail Trenk
Robin Ganzert, Naomi Judd, Lois Pope, Sunny Sessa
Rodney Hicks, Ali Boibab, Nathaniel Geffard, Kamiah Grant, Chad Kimball
Rachel Orkin-Ramey, Geoffrey Bradfield, Diana Quasha, John H. Manice, Warren Scharf, Liz Munson
The Richard H. Hungerford School Staten Island Neverland
Sedwick & Brattle by Thom Felicia
50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
EMPOWERS AFRICA ANNUAL GALA BLACK MAMBA ANTI-POACHING UNIT
MARISSA ROBIN ABENDAÑO
SCULLY & SCULLY CELEBRATES THE FUND FOR PARK AVENUE
Marissa Robin Abendaño exhibition, booth 268 Mark Gilbertson, Kevin McLaughlin, Karen Klopp, Barbara McLaughlin, Michael Scully, Jack Lynch
Leitah Mkhabela, Richard Wiese, Patricia Glass, Nkateko Mzimba
Darren Manelski, Delia von Neuschatz, Randi Schatz, Kevin von Neuschatz, Krista Krieger
Emanuele Fiore, Alessandro Mele, Jade Perkins, Jenna Weinfurt, Marissa Robin Abendaño Betsy Pinover Schiff
Jane Pontarelli, Carmine Scassino, Linda Maniscalco, Karen Feld, Bellini, Joe Pontarelli David & Melanie Holland with Tulip cookie party favors by Eleni’s
David Juracich, Fernando Gentil, Mike Corbat, Dr. Karl Krieger
Krista Krieger, Ellie Libby, Nancy Pearson, Mary Judelson
Marissa Robin Abendaño, Poramit Thantapalit
Victoria Leeds, Anki Leeds
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51
MCLAUGHLIN HOSTS COCKTAILS AND SHOPPING TO BENEFIT CIVITAS
THE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY OF NEW YORK FLOWER SHOW DINNER DANCE HONORS KAMIE LIGHTBURN
THE NEW ENGLAND SOCIETY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK FOUNDERS DAY 2017
Kevin McLaughlin Barbara McLaughlin Kamie Lightburn, Jared Goss
Glennis Karp, Jay Diamond, Alexandra Lebenthal, Ellie Lebenthal
Katey Koelle, Catherine Schoetlle, Eliza McLaughlin, Charlotte McLaughlin, Alexandra Klestadt
Kevin McLaughlin, Ann Colley, Karen Klopp, Jack Lynch, Hilary Dick, Martha Glass
Kathy Prounis, Kamie Lightburn, Kristin Krusen, Polly Onet, Kate Hemphil
Robyn Joseph, Valentine Hernandez, Yaz Hernandez, Eleanora Kennedy
Susan Gutfreund, Sharon Jacobs, Kamie Lightburn, Audrey Gruss
52 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
2017 New England Society of NY Board
Anne Hall Elser, Jennifer Mitchell, Benedict Gedaminski
Annette DeLorenzo, Tom Hills, Colleen Hills, Alex Donner, Karen Springhorn
Benedict Gedaminski, Marianne MorrillFisher, Ellen Scordato, Joe Scordato
SSMCA RED, WHITE & BLUE LUNCHEON
Irena McLean, Margo Catsimatidis, Shirley Podolsky, Mary Slila, Adele Malpass, Betsy McCaughey, Chele Farley
Ivan Obolensky, Adele Malpass
Mary Austin, Gloria Austin
Tony Stephens, Lieutenant General Nadja Y. West, Colonel Peter Sicoli
THE CENTER FOR ARTS EDUCATION’S 4TH ANNUAL ARTS JAM
Laurie Anderson, Patrick Burns, Jill Braufman, Maria Justiniano, Lisa Robb
Gloria Pitagorsky, Mary Piciocchi, Terri Kahan
Lisa Levy, Leo Gordon, Tiffany Jefferson, John Holleran, Laurie Kingsberry-Ford
Teaching and Learning program students
SUSAN GUTFREUND HOSTS THE OXFORD PHILHARMONIC
Natalia Lomenko, Susan Gutfreund, Yuri Yeslin
April Gow, Susan Gutfreund
HRH Crown Prince Alexander of Serbia, Marios Papadopoulos, HRH Crown Princess Katherine of Serbia
Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra Cocktail Party
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 53
JULIE TUPLER’S TOGETHER TUMMY BOOK PARTY
ART NEW YORK VIP PREVIEW
Julie Tupler, Kim Sillen
Dorothea Hurley, Jon Bon Jovi , Pamela Cohen, Nicholas Korniloff
Belly Button Boogie models
Art New York
CENTRAL PARK CONSERVANCY’S FREDERICK LAW OLMSTEAD AWARDS HAT LUNCHEON
Stewart Lane, Bonnie Comley
Bonnie Comley, Andrea Boudreaux
Julie Tupler, Kim Sillen and guests
Morgan O’Connor, Bruce Helander, Jason Lyon, Gary Lichtenstein
Guests of Bonnie Comley and Stewart Lane
Together Tummy
Peter Max, Gregory Allen
Leah Lane
54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
URBAN STAGES HONORS DESIGNER TONY WALTON
SSMCA KENTUCKY DERBY
Gen LeRoy-Walton, Tony Walton
Brooks Johnson, Ashley Picker Dubin, Jennifer Farrell, Rachel Hickey, Olga Rusak, Jordan Maka
Karen Akers, April Gow, Frances Hill, Tony Walton, Lynn San Andres
Color Guard Presentation
SANA SABBAGH HOSTS THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY
Brian Fisher, Joanna Fisher, Adrienne Arscht, Sana Sabbagh
Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine of Serbia, Daisy Soros, Sana Sabbagh
Melissa Errico
William Ivey Long, Jane Krakowski, Tony Walton, Karen Akers, Kate Burton
John Vricella, Nick Petty, Maruschka Valentin, Tiffany Millioen, Ian & Miguel Ferreyra de Bone, Rachel Hickey, Ashley Puscas, Matthew Rimi
Guests of Sana Sabbagh
Kara Jordan, Gregory Hildebrand
Sana Sabbagh, Susan Gutfreund
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 55
WAVE HELLO! By Joan Hornig
h, the beach days of summer! How we love them! Nothing is more enjoyable than a day at a New York area beach. New York has some of the best beaches in the country. Coming from the Midwest, I had no idea how restorative a day at the beach could be despite throngs of people, children inadvertently throwing sand my way, and the cacophony of different tastes in music competing with the crashing waves. There is something special about the light, smell, air, sounds and walking or napping on the beach.
AVOIDING A CRISIS But now I think about more than summer relaxation when enjoying the ocean. We are rapidly destroying this essential engine of all life on earth. The world’s oceans have lost half their capacity to produce oxygen in the last 40 years. Seafood is the primary source of protein for three out of every seven people in the world, but all commercial fisheries are predicted to collapse by 2048. About 44 percent of the world’s population lives within 93 miles of the ocean. Oceans account for 71 percent of the planet, but less than 2 percent are protected. Over 100 million sharks are killed every year but are essential in maintaining the biodiversity and productive ecosystems. And, in 100 years 50 percent of all ocean species could become extinct. Nearly $2.5 trillion per year of economic value produced by oceans is now jeopardized by changing climate and acidification of seawater, which reduces the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon and regulate global temperatures and local weather patterns. Business practices pollute, and bomb fishing and other deadly practices destroy nature’s balance. Despite the growth of global marine environmental activism, insufficient funds have resulted in thousands of abandoned ocean conservation projects. These statistics are more sobering to me than my summer beach weekends are restorative. Fortunately, it is not too late to turn the situation around, and there are many non-profits dedicated to marine conservation. Through my philanthropic work, I was recently introduced to two in the same week: Blue Sphere Foundation (BSF; bluespherefoundaton.org) which goes into threatened ocean ecosystems to safeguard, stabilize and build community support for conservation. There’s also Project 0 (weareprojectzero.org), which focuses on raising awareness and opening new revenue streams to grant to organizations across the world to complete ocean conservation projects begun but stalled due to lack of financial support. Both non-profits leverage art forms to capture and engage a broad audience in campaigns to alleviate abuses. 56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
A WORLD-WIDE EFFORT In addition to providing financial aid and plans in high-risk situations, BSF uses media, storytelling and outreach approach across global, national and local platforms to effect policy change. Photography, film and multimedia projects underscore the damages unsustainable consumption habits have on nature’s beauty as well as many communities’ livelihoods and well-being. Examples include BSF’s 2014 grand scale arts campaign held in 12 remote communities in Raja Ampat, Indonesia. In conjunction with the education team of the Kalabia, a 100-foot floating classroom, BSF constructed outdoor theaters in each Raja Ampat district drawing in over a thousand people—one-quarter of the region’s population! Each event included an outdoor movie created by BSF where many in the audience saw themselves while witnessing the harmful effects of fish bombing. A live concert by Edo Kondologit, Paupa’s most famous singer, followed. The evenings concluded with a community commentary creating support to change abusive practices affecting the richest marine ecosystem on our planet. The following year, BSF’s founder, Shawn Heinrich’s Oscar-nominated film Racing Extinction, which premiered at Sundance and Discovery, became one of the most watched documentaries in history. Depicting the devastating consequences of climate change and the illegal wildlife trade on our oceans, shorts from Racing Extinction have also been projected on some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Vatican and our very own Empire State Building! Meanwhile, if you want to help restore the oceans and love sculpture, you don’t have to travel beyond NYC this month to participate in raising awareness for ocean conservation. Join me in following Project 0’s Wave Walk which continues through June 21st. With the goal of raising $1 million for conservation programs, 50 giant Wave sculptures are publically displayed around the city. Project 0 provided 50 artists and designers (including myself) unadorned iconic Wave sculptures with the assignment to complete them with our own interpretations of oceans before mounting them across all five boroughs and our harbor islands. Lest you think Project 0’s focus is too far from home to have an immediate impact on our city beyond this art installation, think again. In addition to its active collaborative conservation projects worldwide, restoring fisheries, rebuilding coral reefs and mangroves and cleaning up the ocean around the world, Project 0 works with NYC’s very own Billion Oyster Project on Governor’s Island to reseed the city’s waterways with oysters. Thousands of NYC school children actively plant and grow oysters which provide natural filters to clean the water and rebalance the ecosystem’s support of new life.
SPREAD THE WORD So, what can you do to leverage and heighten ocean conservation? See as many as possible of the 50 Wave sculptures placed in high traffic locations across the city— Rockefeller Center, South Street Seaport, Oculus, Roosevelt Island and many other places. Reflect upon the artist’s message. Post photos to help raise awareness about the need for ocean conservation. Who among us doesn’t like a good selfie with an environmental consciousness? Mark your calendar for World Ocean’s Day June 8th. Consider donating to or volunteering for a conservation non-profit. You have at least 50 opportunities to make your own art with a “Wave Hello” photo that spreads the word and can encourage bidding. The more Waves you post, the more likely the prices will rise during the bidding on Paddle8 at paddle8/auctions/wave-walk and Sotheby’s for the June 21st live auction. Let’s show our appreciation for the environment with renewed vigor this summer. Choose seafood wisely using ocean-friendly seafood apps. Eliminate single use plastic materials. Reduce your carbon footprint. Most importantly talk to your children about the ocean while you play with them on the beach, attempt to distract them from traffic on the LIE, or take photos of them next to Waves while they “Wave Hello!” • Joan Hornig is a New York-based Jewelry Designer, Social Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist. She left a Wall Street career 15 years ago to create a jewelry line at Bergdorf Goodman, where 100 percent of her profit is donated to the charity of the purchaser’s choice. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57
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Gracious Dutch Colonial
$1,625,000
Stone and masonry stucco Dutch colonial beautifully maintained and enlarged with a state of the art kitchen opening to a huge great room, and a large master bedroom addition. 2 car garage, park like 2.4 acre setting on a cul de sac.
Saddle River, NJ
Antique Dutch Colonial
$1,595,000
Beautifully restored & updated. 3.64 riverfront acres with a guest house overlooking the river. Wide plank pine floors, beamed ceilings & over-sized English fpls. Picturesque antique barn & sizable guesthouse. 4 bedrms, 5 baths.
Completely Updated & Expanded! Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
5+ Acre Estate Setting
$2,995,000
5+ private acres surround this stunning country colonial. Great entertaining space and beautiful views of the grounds. Spectacular freeform pool & waterfall/ spa, verandas & patios. A true estate setting with close proximity to Manhattan.
Saddle River, NJ
L'Elite Chateau
$6,900,000
Enchanting, with panoramic views of the exceptional 4.93 acres. Stone veranda, pool, spa, 2-story cabana, tennis court and manicured lawns. Slate and copper roof, Peter Salerno kitchen/new additions, 4-car garage.
Every Home is Special to Us . • VICKI GAILY, REALTOR-ASSOCIATE® • MARKETING DIRECTOR
OFFICE
201 934-7111 • CELL 201 390-5880 • VGAILY@SPECIALPROPERTIES.COM • SPECIALPROPERTIES.COM Information deemed reliable but subject to errors and omissions.
461 DEAN STREET By Daniel J. Bollinger | Photos by Max Touhey
t’s not hard to locate 461 Dean Street. The red, gray and black apartment building is attached to Barclays Center in Brooklyn and features some unique design details and history associated with it. The most interesting fact is, of course, it’s the tallest modular building in the world. The first modular residential building of its kind, 461 Dean is one building in Forest City Ratner’s larger Pacific Park Brooklyn development. It is in the middle of Downtown Brooklyn and sits on 11 subway lines.
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59
GREAT DESIGN DETAIL Some other interesting facts about this development: 461 Dean was built in the Brooklyn Navy Yard. The only constraint that SHoP Architects and Arup Engineers had in developing this rental was that it “had to fit on a truck.” The modular construction allows for some great design details. For instance, a 654-square-foot apartment has a windowed hallway leading into the bedroom. Another great feature is that each unit is individually insulated. This equates to twice as much insulation between each apartment, which means twice as much noise reduction in each unit. The apartments are great. Huge floor to ceiling windows in all units allows for great views and lots of light. The bedrooms are quite large and can accommodate king- sized beds. A washer/dryer comes standard in each unit. All the closets are built out. Many units have pocket doors which make for greater use of apartment space. The kitchens boast a GE appliance package, and the under-mounted lighting and outlets are a very nice touch. Bathrooms are just as beautiful with wall-mounted toilets, large medicine cabinets, and Grohe fixtures. Another great design detail that comes with the modular design is the precision of the tile work in the baths.
RELAXING AMBIANCE There are plenty of amenities to enjoy in this building: A children’s playroom, Sky Lounge, and gym with yoga studio are just a few. The game room with ping pong and pool tables is excellent, but the lounge’s full kitchen with top notch Sub Zero and Miele appliances is the icing on the cake. There is no closer place to entertain friends before and after a show at Barclays Center. This address has made history with this “first of its kind” modular construction. Very apropos for our “New Brooklyn Rising.” I am very impressed with the spacious layouts for all sized apartments, the great use of space in each unit, the quality of the fixtures, and especially the design details that the modular design afforded (windowed hallways, pocket doors, “no cut” tile work). And its location next to Barclays Center couldn’t be better. For more information on 461 Dean Street, visit 461dean.com. • 60 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Bill Gearhart aBr, Gri President, PrinciPal Broker 540.989.3311 office 540.989.6980 fax BGearhart@coldwellbanker.com www.bgearhart.com www.cbtownside.com
40 Liberty Ln $799,950
•
Mls#
827657
“Liberty Hill” circa 1825. One of the Seven Hills houses of Rockbridge County. Restored with updated kitchen and baths but featuring original wainscoting, moldings and floors. 11 fireplaces & 12.8 acres with barn for horses.
197 Huntingwood Ln $524,950
•
Mls#
833997
Fincastle, Virginia. Privately set on 22+ beautiful acres with mesmerizing views of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian mountains. This spacious 4BR, 4B home features include a large eat-in kitchen, a rec room with 2 sided fireplace, and multiple porches.
GO BLUE! BLACKSBURG OFFICE 540.552.6500 220 Professional Park Drive Blacksburg, VA 24060
ROANOKE OFFICE 540.989.3311 4005 Electric Road, Suite 100 Roanoke, VA 24018
is Proud to Welcome
Daniel Bollinger to its Boerum Hill office “While you know me best as the editor of the Real Estate section in New York Lifestyles Magazine, I am proud to add that I have joined Halstead Real Estate as a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson and am equipped with the finest resources available such as; cutting edge Real Estate technology, award winning marketing department, and top of the line brand recognition in the industry. These are just the tools I need to help you buy or sell your next home in New York.�
Contact me today for all of your real estate needs.
Daniel Bollinger licensed real estate Salesperson t: 718.613.2895 dbollinger@halstead.com 495 atlantic avenue | Brooklyn, nY
MAJESTIC ONE OF A KIND ESTATE 5550 HANCOCK RD Ft. Lauderdale, FL, 33330
EVERGLADE SUGAR & LAND CO
Palatial 3 Story Private Gated Estate on 7.5 Acres Featuring Library, Office, Stained Glass Windows, Gourmet Kitchen,
12 Seat Theatre, Game Room, Bar Room with Pool Table , Bowling Alley, Family Room, 4 Fireplaces, Elevator, two story Master Suite with his and hers full baths, steam showers, jacuzzi tubs, mirrored exercise room, seasonal closet, and private living room. Five junior suites, 2/1 in-law guest quarters with kitchenette. Exotic resort style pool with slide and spa. Lighted tennis courts. Impeccable manicured grounds. Words nor photos can express the luxury of this 25,000 Sq. Ft. home. • 9 Bedrooms • 11 Full Bathrooms • 19,581 Sq. Ft. Living Area $12,900,000 • 4 Half Bathrooms • Lot size : 7.5 Acres ML#: A2198891 • Year Built: 2001 • 5 Car Garage
Jean Kachik Vice President The Keyes Co., REALTORS 1535 Three Village Road Weston, FL 33326
For more details or to schedule a private showing contact Jean Kachik today:
954-646-0777 jeankachik@aol.com
365 BOND By Daniel J. Bollinger
his 430-unit rental building comprised of studios to two bedrooms(and duplexes) offers a great lifestyle living experience in the newly discovered Gowanus area of Brooklyn. 365 Bond is located near trendy restaurants,bars, and boutiques of Smith and Court Street in Carroll Gardens—and less than 10 minutes from Manhattan. The development brought to you by Lightstone, Hill West Architects, and interior architect Mark Zeff, has great amenities, abundant green space, stunning views, and a waterfront park.
NEW GOWANUS LIFESTYLE The apartments have great layouts and a high level of finishes and feature open kitchen and living room designs, lots of closets, and great views. Plenty of light penetrates all apartments thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. As David West, lead architect on 365 Bond says, “The sponsor cared about the details as much as we did so we worked well together.” The built out closets and handhelds in the showers show the level of attention on the details. I liked the kitchen design with subway tile backsplash with two-tone cabinets, gray bottoms and natural wood tone upper cabinets. This “Industrial & Modern” theme shows throughout the project with rustic brick, weathered materials, and exposed brick. David told me, “For the design aesthetic we wanted to keep the vibe of the Gowanus industrial area roots but also incorporate a modern Carroll Gardens feel into it.” The use of reclaimed wood with Bosch appliances, quartz countertops, and Kohler and Symmons fixtures in the bathrooms is quite evident. 64 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
PLENTY OF EXTRAS The apartments are fantastic, but it is the 40,000square-feet of “all windowed” amenities that make 365 Bond the perfect destination. A total of four lounges, a full chef ’s kitchen for food demos and events, a game room with ping pong, foosball and more, a children’s playroom with kitchen, a sizeable fitness center overlooking the esplanade with a yoga room and full spin room and free weights with trainers available. Also, the three roof decks feature barbecue stations, seating, lounge chairs, sun tanning decks, and dining areas—and views of the Statue of Liberty, Financial District, and more. One design detail worth noting is the barn doors made of reclaimed wood that separate the lounges. It creates a warm, home-like feel and with the completely modern chef ’s kitchen, this epitomizes the “Industrial & Modern” motif that Hill West Architects wanted to achieve. All of these amenities look onto the esplanade, which is a beautifully landscaped park leading around the building on the Gowanus Canal. This property also affords something most New Yorkers only dream of—parking. Gowanus is a newly discovered area of Brooklyn that is going to become more familiar. Its strategic location close to Carroll Gardens, the Gowanus Canal, and all necessary shopping is helping it become a new hotspot. The 365 Bond address is a great new addition to this area, and applaud Lightstone, Hill West Architects, and Mark Zeff for producing a significant new development that adds to the excellent character and lifestyle living of our “New Brooklyn Rising.” For more information on 365 Bond, visit 365bond.com. • JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65
THE ASHLAND By Daniel J. Bollinger | Photos Courtesy The Ashland
locks from Brooklyn Academy of Music and Fort Greene Park stands The Ashland (250 Ashland Place), a 52-story luxury rental building composed of 586 units ranging from studios to 3 bedrooms. The Fort Greene location is ideal, just off Fulton Street, close to the Barclays Center and near public transportation. The Gotham Organization developed The Ashland at the crossroads of Fort Greene and Downtown Brooklyn. The building’s exterior was designed by Gustavo Rodriguez of FXFOWLE, while Jean-Gabriel Neukomm of Span Architecture designed its impressive interiors. Also, its amenity package is bar none. Gotham Properties has created a unique benefits program, GothamCard, exclusively for residents within its portfolio of buildings. Residents enjoy exceptional access, unique programming and exclusive discounts to a growing list of dining, entertainment, retail and cultural partners. Furthermore, The Ashland residents receive a complimentary membership to Brooklyn Academy of Music.
FORT GREENE LUXURY LIVING The apartments are outstanding. With floor-toceiling windows in all the units, there are great views of both Brooklyn and Manhattan skylines from every unit. KitchenAid appliances along with a Bosch dishwasher come standard; many units also feature a Bosch washer/dryer. One striking design detail in the kitchens are the custom gun metal pulls throughout. The bathrooms also have good design details in a neutral gray. Fulllength bathroom mirrors and medicine cabinets set The Ashland above many other rentals in the area. The custom light fixtures are also special. There are plenty of walk-in closets in all units. The mechanicals has been well planned with heat pumped central air systems; two bedroom units have two zone controls. Common areas including hallways are above average as well. Brooklyn artwork adorns the common areas, and custom door knockers and hallway sconces also make this building even more appealing. 66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
LOTS OF AMENITIES There is an enormous amount of space dedicated to entertainment and quality of life, where home extends beyond your four walls. There are multiple resident lounges each separated by pocket doors for privacy, in addition to a billiards room, game room, and TV room. Outside of all these lounges are two outdoor decks and a wraparound terrace. Barbecue grills and cabanas accompany each: One terrace boasts a theater wall where the building will host resident exclusive movie screenings. It doesn’t stop here. There is a large gym with a Peloton bike, yoga room and movement studio, where the building hosts daily fitness classes. The business center boasts complimentary WiFi and the chef ’s demonstration kitchen is rentable for private affairs. There is also plenty of bicycle storage with a tuning station, a fleet of complimentary Shinola bikes, stroller parking, and a children’s playroom. The laundry room with commercial-sized machines are not in the basement; they are right on the amenity floor. Thoughtfulness in a layout like this is one of the many reasons why The Ashland is redefining Brooklyn. Luxury living in Fort Greene has finally arrived with The Ashland. As its website states, “Standing as a marker for Brooklyn’s Cultural District, The Ashland sets a new standard of elevated living in Fort Greene.” It certainly does. The location is near all cultural, entertainment, and restaurant destinations. The apartments with oak wide-plank wood floors, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances are great. The views of Brooklyn and Manhattan are spectacular. This project is definitely a great example of “New Brooklyn Rising.” For more information The Ashland, visit theashlandbk.com. • JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67
THE WAVERLY BROOKLYN By Daniel J. Bollinger | Photos courtesy of MILLARC
ocated in Clinton Hill and just blocks from the C subway line is a boutique condo building with big building amenities known as Waverly Brooklyn. Inspired by Bauhaus Modernism, the property has a contemporary exterior with clean, modern lines composed of architectural concrete and hand-laid Norman brick which produce great window openings. This building is on the cusp of Fort Greene and Prospect Heights close to entertainment, shopping, and Brooklyn cultural institutions.
GREAT DESIGN The apartments have great layouts with spacious rooms and entryways. Open kitchen, living and dining rooms with high ceilings (just under 11 feet) produce expansive common areas. With large windows, there is an extraordinary amount of natural light that penetrates these residences. The kitchens have great designs with integrated cabinetry of warm tones of oak wood and complimenting white lacquer. There are Bosch, Bertazzoni, Grohe, and Liebherr appliances and quartz countertops. The deep steel sinks are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, and the single slab backsplash shows that developers Orange Management and GKV Architects designed to a high standard. The bathrooms are of equally spectacular. Kohler & Grohe fixtures with LaCava sinks are all standard: large medicine cabinets with lots of storage solutions. Radiant heated floors in the bathrooms are what you would expect in a development such as this. And best of all, all units come with a Bosch washer/dryer as well.
OUTDOOR LIVING IN NYC Several of the second-floor units afford large outdoor patios. There are five penthouse units with outdoor spaces—with barbecue grills. One design detail that isn’t visually noticeable but shows the quality of this building is the technology inside the windows on the Fulton Street side. The windows have been installed with Genie Mats technology: An acoustic underlay which creates special sound buffering from external noise. The level used is a “higher than required sound continuation rate.” Details such as these show Orange Management and GKV Architects put thought and care into Waverly Brooklyn. The amenities are ideal for such a boutique building. For one, there is a parking garage right next door with fully-automated on-site parking, one of—if not—the rarest amenity in the NYC luxury market. There are two roof decks, one located on the second floor with abundant seating and an outdoor barbecue area. This is attached to the second-floor resident lounge with library, media center, entertainment area, and a very nice kitchenette. The rooftop deck is vast with great views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn. It even has an outdoor shower and sun deck. Of course, there is a gym as well. The Waverly is a great addition to Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. An architecturally pleasing site with great interiors and a host of amenities bordering two other great neighborhoods Fort Greene and Prospect Heights. For more information on the Waverly Brooklyn, visit: waverlybrooklyn.com. •
68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
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STUNNING NAVIGABLE WATERFRONT 1050 SHIPWATCH DRIVE, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32225
This stunning navigable waterfront property is located in Queens Harbour Yacht and Country Club in Jacksonville, FL. Queens Harbour is one of the few communities in the country with its’ own “fresh” water harbor. There is a Marina for docking your vessel; many homes such as this one, have private docks in the backyard. This home has a 50 ft. dock on the property. Leave your backyard through the unique and sophisticated Lock System in this community. Once going through the Lock System you will head to the Saltwaters of the Intracoastal Waterways. By water the Atlantic Ocean lies just 3 miles from the Queens Harbour Lagoon’s Lock System, via the ICW and the St. Johns River. Depending on the running speed of the vessel, a boater can be in the Atlantic Ocean 30 minutes after clearing the Lock System.
This exquisite custom 5173 sq. ft. home has 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and is breathtaking. The home boasts high ceilings, a gorgeous gourmet kitchen, 3 bedrooms and an executive office on the main floor. There is an additional full guest suite/office with private bath on the upper level. This space has a private balcony for enjoying magnificent water views and the evening breeze. You can also find an additional flex/ bonus room on the second level. This home is simply spectacular with panoramic views of the harbor, 40 year architectural roof, many new appliances, wonderful architectural detail and features, travertine flooring, central vac, water softener, Rinnai Water System for constant hot water, 50 ft. dock, very spacious screened lanai with $60,000 fireplace, heated pool & spa, outdoor kitchen, etc. The home has been immaculately maintained. This home has too many upgrades to list. Please contact agent for additional information or a private showing
$1,349,000
MLS#: 844859
SHARON MILLS, LUXURY REALTOR, GRI 4500 HODGES BLVD. JACKSONILLE, FL 32224
DIRECT: 904-534-6087 FAX: 904-339-9090 WWW.SHARONMILLSTEAM.COM
JACK ESTERSON
ERNESTO VELA
MARTIN KAPELL
REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT By Daniel J. Bollinger
hink! Architecture and Design has been serving New York City for the past four years. But the three principals Marty Kapell, Ernesto Vela, and Jack Esterson, have been working together for more than 15 years in various New York City firms.
As their website states, “The work we do is thoughtful. Our work strives for success, satisfaction and beauty not as a starting point of a design, but as the result of a rigorous process of investigation and discovery. By uncovering the central issues embedded in each project, and through an openness to the widest range of possibilities, we endeavor to formulate design solutions that result in the unique and intelligent resolution of need, desire, function and circumstance.” I had a chance to visit their minimal and refined studio space, talk about their work and design in their door-less conference room, and chat about the industry—while I amazingly learned that I had reported on Think! projects before I even knew them. NYL: Where are you located? Marty: Metro-Tech Center in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn. The landlord, who we’ve known for some time now, made us an offer that we couldn’t refuse. Jack and I also live within a mile from the office, and I bike to work at times. What current projects are you working on? Jack: Renovating the Pavilion Cinema in Park Slope into a Nitehawk Theater, a private townhouse on St. Felix Street in the BAM historic district of Fort Greene, affordable senior housing for The Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee (HANAC) with passive house energy guidelines in Corona, Queens, and we recently won an RFP for a 15 story affordable housing project in the Bronx.
Marriott Hotel LIC
Henry Street
Saint Felix
70 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
NYL: You seem to have a large range of abilities, what is the range? Ernesto: We have done everything from institutional projects, affordable housing, private townhouses, dance theaters, a film school, high-end residential and healthcare. Our range is wide because each of us has a unique background. I’ve traveled extensively and have worked on planning projects internationally. Jack, it seems, has worked with every other nonprofit in the city. Marty has studied theater lighting and brings a wonderful sense of the theatrical to his designs. So we try not to focus on one sector of the industry. Instead we focus on adventurous and contemporary design for a multitude of project types. In addition, because of the diversity of our principals, we are able to work at many scales; from planning a waterfront development along the Hudson down to a sculptural façade element for a small residential project in Brooklyn. Through this variety in scale, and as part of our collaborative process, we enjoy focusing on the sensibilities and attention to detail demanded by each project.
ONE REALTOR FOR THE ENTIRE COUNTRY
West 19th Street
HANAC Corona Senior Residence
West 19th Street
NYL: What completed projects are you most proud? Marty: Probably Pratt Institute’s Myrtle Hall which won a Municipal Arts Society award. NYL: What made the Myrtle Hall project so special? Jack: It truly impacted the neighborhood, improved the commercial aspect of neighborhood, increased Pratt’s enrollment, improved the campus, and shows how contemporary design can really integrate into a historic urban context. NYL: What kind of clients do you enjoy working with? Jack: Clients that care about architectural detail, that want to build something that means something, stands out, and has a positive impact in its community. Also clients who come from a point of mutual respect and understand the value of design; a person or group that enjoys the adventure of pushing the envelope of what can be done. NYL: What is Think’s goal for NYC? Marty: To improve the city one building at a time. We all have such a love for this city and it shows in our work. The awards that we have won are proof; our The Oosten project just won a Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce Award, The Jerome Theater in the Baryshnikov Arts Center won the United States Institute for Theatre Technology 2014 Merit Award, the Pratt Film and Video won a 2015 AIA NYS Interiors Citation, and Myrtle Hall won the Municipal Arts Society MASterwork award in 2011. But we really have to give Jack a pat on the back for the H. H. Richardson award from the NYS AIA.
Cheryl B Newton MOVING? RELOCATING? HELPING A FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND?
I belong to a nationwide network of trusted real estate agents. I can refer you to three professional agents in any area of the U.S. you get to interview each of them and choose one with whom to work. It’s that simple! Contact me when you’re ready.
NYL: What do you like about working in NYC? Marty: The remarkable energy here, the culture, and diversity of talent that we are able to draw from, as well as the opportunities the city gives us to build great things. We also thrive off of the quality of architecture being produced in NYC. We really have to bring our A-game because there is an abundance of great architects here, and for our office to grow from 2 people to 20 in four years in NYC really says something. Where do you get your inspiration from? Ernesto: Inspiration is drawn from the difficulties of the site, the unique desires of the client, and the surrounding environment. For me the environment and how the building works with its community is paramount and can really make or break a design. I’m also an artist, but my art is more to clear the mind than to influence design directly. NYL: What will the second half of 2017 into 2018 bring for Think!? Marty: Think! is going through a branding process so this fall you will see a new logo, letterhead and website, along with all of the associated forms of paper that we really never use any more. In terms of buildings you will see new housing, from luxury to affordable, and a number of social service spaces for our nonprofit clients. For more information on Think! Architecture & Design, visit think-arc.com. •
431 W Lancaster Ave Devon, PA 19333 610.564.1144 M 610.647.0444 F cheryl.newton@foxroach.com
SAVING SUMMER SKIN By Ruth J. Katz
n much the same way a real estate agent will intone the axiom “location, location, location,” Dr. Norman Rowe, an Upper East Side, board-certificated plastic surgeon, admonishes, “hydration, hydration, hydration.” Rowe was speaking about one of the most important things one can do for skin in the summertime—and, in fact, all year long—when we lose so much internal moisture to, well, sweating. Rowe is about to open a 1,800-square-foot office/state-ofthe-art surgical suite later this year, a few blocks from his current location on 77th Street. In addition to his Gotham practice, Rowe has an office in Red Bank, New Jersey, and a very busy facility, Tight Medical Spa, on the East End in Water Mill. His Long Island office opened in early July 2016, where he spends several days a week—usually Thursday through Monday— particularly in the summer, when he says he is more or less on call in the Hamptons. “It’s only a short hop away,” he allowed, “and if a patient needs me, I can be there really quickly…and,” he quips, “there is always a helicopter!” New York Lifestyles recently sat down with Rowe to discuss the state of cosmetic surgery and to learn what he advises for summer face and body care, and some procedures to consider, given that the sun and sea wreak havoc on skin. What are the most important things a consumer can do to maintain healthy skin and avoid damage in the sun? Drink plenty of fluids, water preferably, all day long. It helps keep the skin plumped up. The skin is the largest organ in the body and as such, requires lots of water, especially in the warm weather. Hydrating the skin maintains a healthy glow. And just as I say, “hydration, hydration, hydration”’ I also preach, “sunblock, sunblock, sunblock.” An SPF of 30 is ideal; anything higher is just overkill. Stopping the effect of the sun’s harmful, damaging rays on our skin is top-priority. I emphasize the use of sunblock all year long, not just in the summer, although that is when it is in the consumer’s consciousness. What else do you recommend for a daily routine? I always tell patients to maintain a consistent routine, and if visiting your plastic surgeon is part of your regular health-oriented regimen, then maintain those visits. There are daily practices you can follow during the summer, as well as weekly procedures, such as derma planing, which your plastic surgeon would administer. It is a non-invasive, superficial technique using a scalpel’s edge to gently remove dead skin cell, exfoliating peach fuzz at the same time, resulting in a brighter, plumper, more youthful-looking skin. There are also monthly treatments like a “Botox facial,” which is a combination of Botox, vitamins, and nutrients that are injected into the skin, with a micro-hypodermic to maintain the skin’s health over the harsh summer months. 72 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
What about topical treatments we apply at home ourselves, like Retin-A? It is perfectly fine to continue the use of a retinol product, such as Retin-A if that is part of your regular beauty regime. However, I advise adjusting the frequency and the dosage, so that if you typically use a .1 percent or .5 percent product, you scale down to a .015 percent concentration. I suggest using it every other day, instead of every day, and putting it on at night, rather than first thing in the morning. Plastic surgery procedures are increasing in numbers, are they not? Plastic surgery procedures will continue to increase in popularity; in 2016, plastic surgery procedures increased 20 percent over the 20142015 statistics.* Non-surgical procedures, including injections of botulinum toxin and fillers, as well as laser treatments, accounted for 85 percent of all the 2017 procedures, up 22 percent from 2015—and non-surgical skin tightening showed the greatest increase, with a 58 percent increase over 2014.
What are the most popular surgical procedures in your practice? Procedures relating to the breast, such as augmentations and reductions, rhinoplasty, and abdominoplasty [tummy tuck].
Where do men fall in this discussion, what percentage of your practice is male and what procedures do they seek? Close to 20 percent of my practice is male, and the most common surgical procedure they seek is liposuction—getting a more youthful physique, in areas where diet and the gym aren’t going to help. Non-surgical procedures popular among men are Botox on Those are huge increases in non-surgical treatments. Can you the face and PRP [platelet-rich plasma injections] in the scalp, to stimulate hair growth. explain why? There are a few simple reasons—patients want them because they are easy and don’t require much downtime if any at all. Moreover, they are *All statistics are according to the American Society for Aesthetic efficient and effective, and simply put, they work, and they give very Plastic Surgery good results for the time and money spent. [Editor’s Note: The price point is palatable to most patients. Rowe states that a laser resurfacing For more information on Dr. Norman Rowe (71 East 77th Street, Suite 1A; 212 628-7300), visit normanrowemd. treatment with the very popular Fraxel machine rejuvenates and com. His East End location: 760 Montauk Highway, resurfaces the skin, getting rid of tiny lines; it ranges in cost from Suite 1A, Watermill; 631-500-9090). • $750 to $1,000 a treatment, with some patients needing only one treatment and others, as many as four. Botox injections range from about $350 to $500 an area and will last about six months. Fillers can © Ruth J. Katz All Rights Reserved. The author of five range from $700 to as much as $2,000 a syringe, for a product like books, Ruth J. Katz has served as style/travel editor the very viscous Voluma, which, when injected into the cheeks gives a of Promenade magazine and written extensively for “lift” and lasts about two years. While a filler like Restylane might cost The New York Times and New York and contributed $1,000 a syringe, with its plumping effect lasting about a year.] to numerous consumer magazines.
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SPA SCENE By Griffin Miller
hen the local weather report hovers over the three S’s: Sweltering, Sticky, and Sunscreen at the same time obligations dictate urban over beachfront, the in-a-nutshell solution is, quite simply, spa “therapy.” Things like luxuriating in a Jacuzzi or surrendering to a first rate massage mid-workweek diffuse feelings of deprivation. And it’s nice to know New York City has no shortage of indulgent treatment resources, from palatial hotel spas to exclusive day retreats to the awesome option of bringing professional massage services directly to you.
UNSURPASSED ESCAPISM
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental New York
With its reputation as an incubator for inspired spa treatments created and carried out by superstar therapists, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental New York is a serious “must splurge” for anyone longing to slip out of the frenzied world below and savor the pleasures of Manhattan’s only spa with a bird’s eye view of Central Park. Its expansive menu turns seductive once you realize there is nothing commonplace in it. Body treatments include Mediterranean and Renewal Rituals; facials come with names that spell out the end result: Bio-Radiance, Refining, Men’s Focus; while massages bear titles such as Oriental Essence, Aroma Stone, and the Calm Mind Retreat, the latter offered exclusively at Mandarin’s New York venue. “Recently, we’ve seen an increase in Calm Mind Retreat bookings,”, notes Director of Spa Gaylen Brown, who says its emphasis is on the head, neck, shoulders and back and is enhanced by meditative breathing techniques and rocking movements. “Ultimately, the treatment eases stress and balances the yin and yang energies of the body,” says Brown. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental New York
This Asian sensibility is key, not only to the treatments at all the Spas at Mandarin Oriental, but to the design elements that add up to a Zen-like haven. Indeed, of the myriad spa amenities at Mandarin’s New York, the most enticing have to be the heat and water rooms (one for each gender), with their Experience Showers (Land and Tropical Rain as well as Fog selections), divinely relaxing Vitality Pool and circular Amethyst Crystal Steam Room, where stress evaporates in the room’s mist-filed golden glow. (It’s recommended guests arrive 45 minutes early for their treatments so they can fully take advantage of this room. But if you have the time, I recommend coming even earlier, if only to linger in the soothing Jacuzzi-esque Vitality Pool.) Post-treatment is a totally different R&R in the Relaxation Room: a peaceful oasis with heated, adjustable lounge beds, a boat fountainsculpture trickling water into a rock basin, and a granola and fruit “bar” where you create your own snack. And, of course, there’s a bank of large windows presenting a stellar metro panorama. As for The Spa at Mandarin Oriental New York’s most recent additions, the news is HydraFacialMD®, a groundbreaking treatment Brown describes as a “go to rejuvenator for guests” known for its “visibly transformative results”. And in the massage category there’s Digital Wellness Escape—a treatment that zeroes in on those specific pressure points that have suffered the slings and arrows of computer and cyber induced aches and pains. Not surprisingly, before beginning this downtime experience you are asked to surrender your cell phones and/or tablets. Ah, the sacrifices we make for bliss. For more information on The Spa at Mandarin Oriental New York (80 Columbus Circle at 60th Street; 212-805-8880), visit mandarinoriental.com.
74 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Soothe
Soothe
HOME COURT ADVANTAGE Now and again as we navigate our cyberspace/social media/film/ reality TV universe, it’s impossible not to imagine what it would be like to be treated like a celebrity. To live in a world of perks and privilege where people you summon arrive at your door to style your hair, apply your makeup, fit you for a gown or tux or, more to the point, massage away the stress of stardom. Allow me to introduce you to the self-indulgent convenience of Soothe, the largest and fastest-growing on-demand massage and wellness company around. Available in 50 North American cities and London, England, Soothe has been embraced by celebrities like Sharon Stone (“I use it all the time”), James Corden, and Zach Woods who describes it as being “like Uber for massage”—citing the ease of hitting an app “and a massage therapist arrives at your house and gives you a massage”—with as little as one hour lead time. And since our current location is the City That Never Sleeps, the company’s 24/7 approach is especially welcome. Streamlining things even further, once the massage—your choice of Swedish, Deep Tissue, Sports or Prenatal—is a fait accompli, your credit card is charged, tip included. As for my personal experience, let’s just say I’m sold. Fortunately, Soothe’s local outreach covers all boroughs, so my Forest Hills address was no problem for my therapist (Asif) who, despite a large folding massage table and backpack of linens and headrest, was able to set up in under ten minutes. To keep things simple, I signed on for the Swedish massage. Nevertheless, Asif continually checked my comfort levels and morphed his talents to any problem areas: a little deep tissue here; longer strokes there, etc. (On a personal note, his knot-melting skills are to die for). Soothe’s network is made up of 8,000 certified & registered therapists, closely vetted to ensure their backgrounds include a history of customer excellence. Soothe
FOR NEW YORK LIFESTYLES READERS While Soothe’s rates are extremely reasonable for 60, 90 and 120-minute sessions, there is a special $20 off promotion for first time users through New York Lifestyles. Simply use the code NYLM20 when scheduling your appointment at soothe.com.
For more information on Soothe (800-960-7668), visit soothe.com to download the app. • Griffin Miller specializes in spa travel and New York theater. Her resume includes writing for The New York Times, For the Bride and Hotels. She also creates promotional materials for the Metropolitan Opera, BAM, and Guggenheim Museum. A member of The New York Travel Writers’ Association, she is a playwright and award-winning collage artist. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 75
Welcome.
Escape to your own private country estate at The Lodge at Woodloch, an all-inclusive destination spa resort just 95 miles from Manhattan. Reservations: 866.953.8500
thelodgeatwoodloch.com
FRESH & TASTY SUMMER PRODUCE By Shari Bilt Boockvar, MS, RDN
love summer! It’s the time to be outdoors and enjoy the warm weather. For me, this is also the time for the freshest seasonal produce. Summer is also prime time for quick, easy meals as well as on the grill. Eating the “Rainbow” is so easy with the abundance of choices at your local farmer’s market or grocery store. Here are some of my favorites and suggestions on how to prepare them. WATERMELON • Slice into cubes and top with a few sprinkles of feta cheese. • Mash a handful of watermelon cubes into a glass and fill with sparkling water and fresh squeezed lime juice. CUCUMBERS • Slice and top with dollops of hummus and sliced grape tomatoes. • Chop and mix with fresh corn and tomatoes. Top with a homemade salad dressing of equal parts Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar and olive oil. BERRIES • Top a bowl of berries with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and sprinkles. • Make a fresh peanut butter and “jelly” sandwich made with mashed blueberries, blackberries or raspberries. PINEAPPLE • Place popsicle sticks into slices of pineapple for a sweet and healthy treat. • Chop and mix with peppers, onions or your favorite veggies for a quick and easy salsa for chicken or fish. CANTALOUPE AND HONEYDEW • Slice in half, scoop out the seeds and fill with Greek yogurt using the melon as a bowl. Top with ¼ cup granola and fresh berries. • Cube and blend with fresh lime juice and a dollop of Greek yogurt in a blender for a refreshing cool soup. ZUCCHINI • Make zucchini Parmesan by spiralizing a zucchini, topping it with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for a few minutes until cheese has melted and top with Italian seasonings.
• Sprinkle breadcrumbs on sliced zucchini and spray with olive oil. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes. Serve with marinara sauce. CHERRIES • Dip them into vanilla Greek yogurt and then into sprinkles for a colorful treat. • Blend with vanilla Greek yogurt, ½ banana and a handful of ice cubes for a refreshing smoothie. TOMATOES • Slice a tomato, top with a small amount of cubed fresh mozzarella and basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar and top with a crack or two of sea salt. • Mash chickpeas and mix with a chopped tomato and ½ tablespoon of olive oil. Spread on whole grain toast and top with Italian seasoning salt. PEACHES • Top 2 whole-grain waffles with fresh peach slices, Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. • Serve with a side of cottage cheese or yogurt topped with chopped walnuts or sliced almonds. Use peach slices for dipping. ASPARAGUS • Spray with olive oil and simply broil or grill until lightly charred. Top with your favorite seasonings and sea salt. • Top with a fresh poached egg and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. GREENS • Top your favorite greens with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh lemon, Parmesan cheese and sea salt. • Sauté with olive oil and fresh chopped garlic. Top with sliced almonds. •
Shari Bilt Boockvar, MS, RDN is a nutritionist in New York and the Tristate area. She specializes in nutrition counseling and consulting for weight control and fitness. Shari can be found blogging about her favorite products and recipes at Facebook.com/ NutritionShari, Twitter.com/NutrtionShari, Instagram: NutritionShari, and nutrifactsforyou.com. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 77
READING IS GOOD MEDICINE By Karen Jacobs, OT, OTR, EdD, CPE, FAOTA
is second-grade class is working on a reading activity, but 8-year-old Seth*, wearing a white dunce cap, sits on a stool in the corner of the room staring at the wall. He’s holding back tears. His teacher punished him for refusing to read Dick and Jane. Seth tried to read, but the letters kept moving around in his mind. Seth didn’t know it then, but he has dyslexia. In the early 1960’s, the disorder wasn’t well identified, and the New York public school he attended didn’t offer the special education services that help students thrive today. Seth is my cousin, and his experiences are part of what motivated me to become an occupational therapist 38 years ago.
OT & QUALITY OF LIFE Occupational therapy is a 100-year-old health profession that helps all people to maximize their health, well-being, and quality of life through effective solutions that support participation in everyday activities, or occupations (AOTA, 2016). More than 213,000 occupational therapy practitioners in the U.S. focus on teaching Wounded Warriors how to hold their children again after limb loss; helping babies in the NICU to feed, breathe, and swallow so they can thrive. They also assist in providing recommendations for assistive technology in the vehicle or home so that older adults can age in place safely; helping ensure a child’s backpack is the appropriate size and packed correctly to avoid long-term musculoskeletal issues. As an occupational therapist, I decided to write children’s books which accurately portray children with disabilities and address challenging topics such as dementia. By including my profession in my books, I hope to inspire potential occupational therapy practitioners. Children’s literature that includes individuals with disabilities has been shown to enhance understanding of differences, how these children perceive themselves, how they are seen by their peers, and how they participate in their society. In 2012, I embarked on a journey to coauthor and self-publish children’s books. Since then, I have published 14. In my position at Boston University, I am able to work with occupational therapy graduate students in the writing and illustration of these children’s books. Students embraced the ability to share their narratives and to create new ones. Sisters at the Beach depicts a child with a disability engaged in meaningful occupations. The story illustrates similarities and differences between families with and without a child with a disability and demonstrates how occupational therapy practitioners provide adaptations to promote social participation and play for all children. In developing the idea for Sisters at the Beach, I met with then-BU graduate students Carol Haver and Diana Smith. Carol grew up with a sibling who has a disability. To generate ideas for our story, we viewed Carol’s family photos and talked about her personal experiences. During the process of writing the story, Diana created the illustrations using Carol’s family photos as guides. The initial draft of the story script was co-written and then modified to have language appropriate for 5-to 6-year-old children. The story text was reviewed by professionals and families of children with disabilities. Once the research on the disability, story, and illustrations was completed, a glossary of terms was created and included in the book.
MOM’S AN INSPIRATION My own mother’s experience with dementia inspired the creation of Breakfast With Grandma Ruthie: A Story for Children Learning About Dementia. My mom, Ruth Ellen Filler, was born in Brooklyn, NY on June 12, 1926 at Liberty Hospital. Little would she know that 91 years later she would be the main character in a children’s book. This book, co-authored and illustrated by Samantha Valasek, an occupational therapist at the University of Southern California, is about a great-grandma with dementia who moves in with family members. With the assistance of the occupational therapist, the family learns what simple changes they can make at home to help Grandma Ruthie do everyday activities. Although the illustrations were not completed before my mom passed last year, she did have the opportunity to listen as the story was read to her. For many young people, engaging with those who have disabilities can be scary and raise feelings of uncertainty. Through books that explore relationships and services, children are given information that can help to take away some of the “unknown,” thus, help to promote more meaningful interactions between those with and without disabilities. Today, thankfully, no child is forced to sit in a corner and wear a dunce hat because they have a disability. My cousin Seth might not have experienced the stigma if a better understanding of differences were introduced by his teacher. It is my hope that these books will guide future generations to have a better understanding of disabilities and conditions, and lead these people to live life to its fullest without stigma or fear. *name was changed to assure anonymity • Karen Jacobs, OT, OTR, Ed.D., CPE, FAOTA, is a Clinical Professor at Boston University, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent College. The creation and self-publishing of children’s books are one of Jacobs’ meaningful occupations. Her books are all available on Amazon.com or by contacting her at kjacobs@bu.edu. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 79
BRINGING BAVARIAN FARE TO THE BOWERY By Anne Raso
hen you think of the East Village, you tend to think of small hole-in-the-wall eateries that serve light fare. Paulaner NYC’s White & Blue Restaurant is big and bold, taking up two large storefronts—one of which once housed Sammy’s Follies, a legendary bar that featured a floor show and the Bowery’s most colorful cast of characters (in both its hourly cabaret performances and just sitting at the bar)! The Paulaner space is loft-like but at the same time rustic with long exposed brick walls—and it feels like a modern German home that just happens to have extra-large metal beer vats in the back (yes, they make their own wildly popular handcrafted beers and ales). There is a wood-accented party room downstairs for private affairs as well.
NATURE’S UNIQUE BOUNTY Affable Chef Daniel Kill is proud to be one of the few purveyors of oldschool Bavarian food in Manhattan, and every dish is painstakingly created from organic farm fresh produce and meat. Right now, white asparagus is in season, and you can get it at least three ways at this comfy eatery. Kill explains the “fresh” philosophy behind this often misunderstood cuisine: “Bavarians, in particular, rejoice over each season’s unique bounty and this rings true especially now when menus all across the country showcase delicacies like white asparagus, rhubarb, and ramps. They even refer to this time of year as ‘Spargelzeit’ or ‘Asparagus Season.’ You’ll find white asparagus on every menu and in a wide variety of dishes: Spargel soup, Spargel, and Schnitzel with Hollandaise sauce, as well as Spargel salad.” He continues, “Having grown up in Bavaria, I recall riding my bike through local parks and realizing when I smelled the ramps—a wild leek also known as ‘Baerlauch’ in Germany—in the air. ‘Why would people use anything but what’s available to them and in season?’ I thought. Fresh, locally harvested foods hold all their flavor, and release these unique flavors when we eat them. My grandmother knew this, her grandmother knew this and so on. Our menu reflects this special time with dishes like Ramps Späetzle with tomatoes and shrimp, White “Spargel” Asparagus with a side of Schnitzel and potatoes topped with Hollandaise sauce (a classic dish every Bavarian knows and loves) and our very special rhubarb tart, an undeniable beauty.” 80 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
A THING OF BEAUTY When you try the aforementioned white asparagus dishes, you will know that you have found something that cannot be obtained at any other eatery in Manhattan especially when teamed with Schnitzel and Hollandaise sauce. At Paulaner, the sides alone are so unique and generously portioned that a couple of them can comprise an entrée. For red cabbage lovers, there is a cold version with finely minced walnuts and a slightly sweet dressing that is light and refreshing as well as the classic warm version which tastes farm fresh and seems to melt in your mouth. Lager-Battered Cod is a favorite entrée at Paulaner, and you can get it in a “small plate” version if you wish. The Wiener Schnitzel is a thing of beauty, and I doubt you could find a more authentic version this side of Bavaria. The Sausage Sampler is a real “must”—it’s served with a heaping helping of sauerkraut and a few different homemade mustards. You’ll fall in love with this delightfully delicious and generously portioned combo plate of Weisswurst (veal sausage), Bratwurst (pork sausage), The Paulaner (smoke-dried aged beef sausage highlighted with cheddar cheese) and Spicy Lamb Sausages. By the way, Paulaner NYC is not a place where vegetarians will feel left out—there are the traditional white asparagus dishes, several fish options, and a Veggie Spaetzle which features Brussels sprouts, mushrooms, Gruyere Cheese and crispy onions. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with Paulaner’s warm homemade apple strudel served with homemade vanilla ice cream, apple fritters or Bavarian chocolate cake served with whipped cream. For more information on Paulaner NYC’s White & Blue Restaurant, go to paulanernyc.com. • Anne Raso is a NYC-based writer who grew up in northern New Jersey. She is a former associate editor of Tiger Beat and Popstar Magazines, and was rock columnist for the Sunday NY Daily News. She has contributed travel articles to Time Out New York and FoxNews.com. Anne currently edits the lifestyle website and contributes to Discovery Girls Magazine. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 81
LET’S GET GRILLING By Chef Robyn Almodovar
hether it is the grill top in my food truck Palate Party, in the kitchen of Rumors Bar & Grill where I am Executive Chef, or on a friend’s fire escape, rooftop “patio” or a public grill in the park or beach, I’m always raring to go. If given the option to light up a grill and cook—even better. What a combination—fire, tools, food, family and friends. Who can say no to that? If you ever watched when I was on Chopped, Cutthroat Kitchen, Food Truck Wars and even on Hell’s Kitchen—you know I love cooking meat. There is no better place to throw down some steaks and gather with friends than a summertime barbecue so grab a beer and let’s get grilling!
STEP #1
Chef Robyn and her staff
Summertime picnics and barbecues call for hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill, grilled chicken, and shrimp. But with all the celebrations— graduations, Father’s Day, and July 4th—let’s make it truly unique with the perfect rib eye steak menu. The recipe below calls for two steaks, about 1.25 to 1.5 lbs. each. Next, you will want to choose a marinade. Some of my favorites include red wine, garlic, onions, vinegar, teriyaki sauce and of course a mix of spices. Marinating is vital when it comes to grilling. Infusing flavor to your protein and vegetables is amazing—how can you go wrong? Remember: don’t marinate in a vinegar base for longer than 1 to 2 hours. Veggies ready to be grilled
STEP #2 I prefer using coal grills over propane gas grills: It’s simpler with a faster clean-up and simply put charcoal makes the food taste better. Plus, it is a healthier source of heat than propane. Here are some tips to keep it simple: • Make sure it is clean before you light the grill. This includes any ash or dirt at the bottom as well. • Remove the grill grate and open the vents in the lower part of the grill. • Place the charcoal briquettes in a pyramid at the base of the grill bowl. • Add lighter fluid to the charcoal and light it up. Now we can get cooking.
STEP #3 Prepare the Steak Rub ½ tablespoon black peppercorns ½ teaspoon dried minced garlic ½ teaspoon dried minced onion 1 tablespoon kosher salt • Place peppercorns, minced garlic, and minced onion in a pepper mill and coarsely grind them into a small bowl. Add the salt, tasting for balance. Set aside. 82 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Plated and ready for guests
STEP #4
Steak on the Grill
Get cooking. Set up your grill for a two-zone fire and preheat to high heat. I like to use a Weber grill. After marinating the steaks, be sure the meat is at room temperature to allow proper cooking. • Lightly brush your steaks with oil and season both sides with the rub. Grill directly over high heat for 4-to-5 minutes a side. Rotate the steaks a quarter turn halfway through each side to create a crosshatched pattern. • Use a digital probe thermometer like the Char-Broil Instant Read Digital Thermometer to check your internal temperature. You want to pull the steaks off when it reaches 127 to 130 degrees internal temperature for medium rare. If they aren’t quite ready, move the steaks to the part of the grill that is not over direct heat, shut your grill lid and let the steaks “roast” another minute or two until done.
STEP #5
The Veggie Marinade
Side dishes are also important. Grab some skewers and add some tomatoes, onions, peppers and other veggies of your choice. Add some flavor before throwing them on the grill as well. My favorite marinade recipe is simple and delicious. Veggie Marinade 2/3 cup olive oil 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil 1 tablespoon chopped tarragon 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper • Just mix the items together and brush it on! Grilled fruit
STEP #6 For dessert take chunks of your favorite fruit and grill them on a skewer. Try pineapples, peaches, apples, pears—or whatever you prefer. When done, pair them with Easy-to-Make Biscuits and some whipped cream to experience a heavenly moment on earth. Easy-to-Make Biscuits 3 cups all-purpose flour (a soft winter wheat flour, like White Lily, is best) 1 tablespoon plus 1½ teaspoon baking powder ¾ teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons plus 1 ½ teaspoon sugar 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature 2/3 cup heavy cream 2/3 cup half and half for brushing on top of biscuits 1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling on top of biscuits • Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. • Place flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Cut butter into ½ tablespoon-sized bits and add to the flour. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in all the heavy cream and the half and half. Stir the dry ingredients into the cream and mix with a wooden spoon until dough just begins to come together into a ball. • Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 2 or 3 times. Do not overwork the dough. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to a 1-inch thickness. • Dip a 2 ½ inch biscuit cutter in flour, then cut the dough. Repeat until all the dough has been cut. Scraps can be gathered together and re- rolled one more time. Place the biscuits on the prepared sheet pan. Brush the tops of the biscuits with half and half and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 20 minutes. Biscuits will be lightly browned on top and flaky in the center when done. Makes about 8 to 12 biscuits. You’re ready to eat! Plate it up and taste why grilling will be your new favorite way to cook! • Staten Island, NY native and Florida resident, Chef Robyn Almodovar knows how to throw a party. A graduate of the Le Cordon Bleu, she now owns Palate Party food truck/catering and is executive chef of Rumors Bar & Grill in Wilton Manors, Florida. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 83
EVERYTHING IS LOOKING ROSÉ By TJ & Tina Mulqueen
t’s that time of year, again. Warmer days and evenings bring the procession of rosé wines. Much like the pagan rituals of old celebrating the rebirth of the Earth’s living things, rosés signal the turning of the season. Grocery stores and marketplaces are rolling out their inventories of pink-tinged wines that make a perfect accompaniment to a sunny day. Unlike wine categories that are designated by their respective grapes—Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet, for example—rosés are made from a number of red wine grapes. The name rosé comes from the pink hue of the wine, yielded by a limited grape time with skins during the winemaking process. A great gateway from red wines to white, rosé wines can be dry (unsweet) or sweet, depending on the grape varietals used. In recent years, rosé wines have been increasingly popular among consumers, outpacing the growth of traditional red and white wines. Experts suggest it’s due to rosé winemaker’s increasing attention to quality, and our more quality-driven consumers’ willingness to pay for it. Thus, rosés are becoming a staple on restaurant wine lists. If you’re new to rosé wines, the plethora of grape varietals and regions from which to choose can seem overwhelming. We (selflessly) explored five different region-varietal combinations to help you, the savvy consumer, find the perfect rosé for your taste preference or event. Cheers! Elk Cove Vineyards 2016 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Rosé Pinot Noir’s signature flavor profile typically consists of red fruit, earthy notes, and light vanilla. Because of the thin skin and sensitive nature of the grape, Pinot Noir flourishes in cool climates with low-temperature fluctuations. Oregon’s wine region is poised to become the area of choice when it comes to exploring Pinot Noir’s full potential. The subtle difference of Oregon Pinot Noir originates from the volcanic soil of the Willamette Valley which gives it the signature earthy tone. To showcase a Pacnorwest Pinot Noir rosé, we tasted Elk Cove’s Pinot Noir rosé which exemplifies Pinot Noir’s unique flavor palette while masquerading as a vibrant, well-rounded rosé. The wine opens up on the nose with a floral influence and bright red fruit typical of rosé. After a swirl and a sip, the Pinot Noir grape starts to emerge with a subtle introduction of strawberry and wet stone. Accompanied by a bright acidity and an intense vanilla finish, this rosé finds itself on the tables of back porch patios during garden parties, usually being enjoyed with the sun, and a smile, on your face. VillaViva 2015 Rosé (Côte de Thau) Next, we head to France to the Côte de Thau region. Côte de Thau is a wine region you may not have heard much about—neither had we. Its climate is conducive to growing white wine grapes, but it’s also known for a few Mediterranean red varietals such as the well-known Grenache and Syrah grapes that are staples in many French wines. It’s also known for the grape, Carignan, which is the singular varietal in the VillaViva Rose that we tasted. While this grape is used in blends, its usage in the VillaViva makes this wine unique. On the nose, this wine suggests a pear and earthy, apple skin flavor profile. On the palate, light acid, minerality, and red fruit are fleeting. This Carignan rosé expression is short and sweet. If you’re a guest at an upcoming event hoping to bring something outside of the run-of-the-mill wine selections, choosing a lesser-known varietal or region will ensure your wine stands out. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 85
Hecht & Bannier Cotes de Provence 2015 Rosé From the parts of Cote de Thau, we head east to Provence where we discover a rosé made from Southern France’s flagship grapes. The combination of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah is typical of the region’s rosé—and for a good reason. Positioned near the Mediterranean, Provence captures the fringe character of rosé with soft floral notes and subtle stone fruit on the nose. The palette takes you on a journey from crisp acidity to raspberry and mild grapefruit with quite a bit of flavor complexity and even a hint of clementine. Sophisticated and refined, this wine is best paired with a Summer rooftop soiree celebrating your recent college grad’s academic achievement.
Susana Balbo Crios Rosé of Malbec Mendoza, Argentina 2016 On the other side of the earth in South America, we find rosé making a splash in one of Argentina’s prominent wine regions—Mendoza. Argentina, known for making superb Malbec, has recently shown its prowess in tackling the fine art of rosé and reimagining the traditional red wine grape. Situated in the high altitude region of the Uco Valley, Crios takes the popularity of the Malbec grape and creates a full-bodied, vibrant rosé. On the nose, there’s a musty smell with hints of stone fruit. The wine’s darker pink color foreshadows what is in store for the palette. Typical of its warm climate, it’s fruit-forward and conjures up notes of bright red fruits with crisp acidity and a long, tart finish. The punch of fruit and vibrancy of the wine couples well with a bright, festive gathering such as a July 4th barbecue.
La Crema Monterey Pinot Noir Rose 2016 Different from its Oregon rivals, Pinot Noir wines from California have a more barnyard presentation of earth and perfectly demonstrates the versatility of the grape in a rosé. The La Crema Pinot Noir rosé is soft and drinkable: vanilla on the nose and subtle melon notes are underscored by hints of tangerine and stone fruit. A slight effervescence shows the wine’s acidity and gives it a celebratory feel that works well in a wedding or other event setting where you want the wine to be drinkable and pleasant, but not the main attraction. Use this as a guide, but remember: it’s the exploration of different varietals and regions that make wine so much fun. Use the changing of the seasons and related festivities as a vehicle to conduct your own expedition into the complex territory of rosé. We hope you’ll enjoy exploring as much as we did! • TJ & Tina Mulqueen are the owners of Kindred PR, a full service public relations and marketing firm with locations in NY and Portland, OR. When they’re not telling their clients’ stories, they document their own— which often include wine. 86 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
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BIG SCREEN PREVIEWS By Pat Collins WONDER WOMAN Rated: PG-13 Release: June 2nd Timed to celebrate Wonder Woman’s 75th anniversary as a DC Comics superhero. The action adventure at last features the Amazon princess (a/k/a Princess Diana) in a leading role, not a supporting one. Gal Gadot the Israeli actress who served in her country’s military spent months training in kickboxing and Jiu Jitsu before shooting the World War I battlefield scenes. Central to the plot is her character’s relationship with American intelligence officer Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) whom she finds in critical condition after his plane crashes. Their mission: to prevent a German general from using a chemical super weapon. Ms. Godot whose presence in the 2016 Batman vs. Superman was the movie’s one redeeming feature, first appears in her character’s classic costume during a lengthy battlefield scene. THE MUMMY Rated: PG-13 Release: June 9th Tom Cruise’s character Nick Morton seemingly perishes after a military transport plane carrying him and other soldiers is attacked by otherworldly characters. He comes back to life, tears open his body bag, escapes from the morgue and makes it his mission to prevent the vengeful mummified Princess Ahmanet (Sofia Boutella) from wreaking havoc in 21st-century London. Javier Bolet is the ancient Egyptian god. Russell Crowe plays Dr. Henry Jekyll. Director Alex Kurtzman describes his movie as having more in common with the 1932 Boris Karloff classic than the forgettable 1999 movie with Brendan Fraser. THE HOUSE Rated: Not Yet Rated Release: June 30th The good news is Scott and Kate’s daughter Alex receives an acceptance letter from her first choice—Buckley College—a fictional institution of higher learning created by the comedy’s screenwriters. The bad news is Kate’s parents played by Amy Poehler and Will Ferrell, cannot afford to pay the $50,000 a year tuition. To raise money, mom and dad convert a basement into a combo gambling casino/strip club/cocktail lounge. What could go wrong in this suburban version of Vegas? Everything: Scott mishandles the cash and Kate finds new ways to spend their ill-gotten gains. Of course, Alex could have applied for financial aid, but that plot line would have inhibited director Andrew J. Cohen and his comically uninhibited co-stars. 88 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
VALERIAN AND THE CITY OF A THOUSAND PLANETS Rated: PG-13 Release: July 21st Director Luc Besson’s 28thcentury comic book inspired space adventure brings Valerian (Dane DeHaan) and his partner Laureline (Cara Delevingne) together. Their mission: To prevent an as yet unidentified force from destroying the harmonious relationships that exist among the city’s various species of extraterrestrials who have co-existed for centuries. Supporting cast members include John Goodman, Ethan Hawke, Rihanna and Clive Owen. ROUGH NIGHT Rated: R Release: June 16th The boozy groomsmen of The Hangover look like misbehaving boy scouts compared to the bride-tobe and her bridesmaids in a raunchy comedy involving cocaine, copious amounts of liquor, and a dead male stripper. Scarlet Johansson as the soon-tobe-married Jess reunites in Miami with her best friends played by Kate McKinnon, Jillian Bell, Zoe Kravitz and Ilana Grazer. GIRLS TRIP Rated: R Release: July 21st When it comes to comedic debauchery the women in director Malcolm D. Lee’s wild, hedonistic adventure surpasses the cast of Rough Night, and that is no small albeit dubious accomplishment. Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Regina Hall and Tiffany Haddish play the ready to party BFF’s who bar hop in New Orleans during the Essence Music Festival. Mr. Lee had more than a few logistical challenges shooting scenes with his famous cast members while local folks and fest attendees alike were eager to watch the stars in action. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 89
IT COMES AT NIGHT Rated: R Release: June 9th Moviegoers who feel queasy should avoid the horror movie with Joel Edgerton and Carmen Ejogo whose characters attempt to survive a pandemic by moving from their densely populated community to the woods. The movie’s special effects makeup artists relied in part on photos of bubonic plague victims to create the grotesque creatures in what promises to be one of the summer’s scariest films. THE BIG SICK Rated: Not Yet Rated Release: June 23rd The real life love story of a struggling Pakistani/American standup comedian, Kumail Nanjiani and Emily Gordon, an aspiring screenwriter, inspired this part true/part fictional dramedy which was enthusiastically received by critics and audiences alike at the Sundance Film Festival. Mr. Nanjiani, best known to viewers as Dinesh Chugtah on Silicon Valley co-wrote the screenplay with Emily Gordon, his wife of ten years. In the early stages of their relationship, Ms. Gordon was rushed to a hospital and placed in a coma-induced state. Her parents, (Holly Hunter and Ray Romano) forbid him to see their daughter. His equally disapproving parents attempt to make a match between Kumail and a young, chatty Pakistani woman. One of the many funny semiautobiographical scenes has Mr. Nanjini’s dodging his parents probing questions about his love life. Prediction: The Big Sick will be recognized when nominations for the Independent Spirit Awards are announced later this year. ATOMIC BLONDE Rated: R Release: July 28th Charlize Theron whose bravura performance in Mad Max Fury Road firmly established her as a bone fide action movie star again proves she can take and throw a punch as well as and frequently better than her male counterparts. Director David Leitch’s movie is set in 1989 Berlin a few days before the wall comes down. An undercover MI-6 agent Lorraine Broughton (Ms. Theron) is assigned to retrieve a stolen list with the names of British secret agents, eliminate the assassin who murdered a top ranking spy and unmask a possible double agent. The role of the vodka drinking, bisexual, emotionless Broughton may not bring her another Oscar nomination. However, the not easily impressed audience members at the SXSW (South by Southwest) Film Festival gave her a standing ovation. Ms. Theron’s fellow cast members include John Goodman as the CIA station chief in Berlin, James McAvoy, a decidedly odd fellow agent, Toby Jones as her MI-6 boss, and Sofia Boutella whose passionate bedroom scene with Ms. Theron’s character will be the movie’s most discussed. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Ms. Theron remarked “why is it that only James Bond can sleep with every girl? Am I the only person whose character had a one night stand?” 90 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
SEQUEL-ITIS This is the so-far-incurable, contagious condition that sweeps across Hollywood every summer and results in an infinite number of movies based on previous blockbusters.
AN INCONVENIENT SEQUEL: TRUTH TO POWER Rated: Not Yet Rated Release: July 28th The long overdue follow up to Al Gore’s 2006 Oscar winning documentary will confirm the worst fears of those concerned about global climate change and will be dismissed as inconvenient hokum by climate change deniers. The hard evidence, however, is on Mr. Gore’s side. One example of many in the film focuses on a section of New York City. Eleven years ago Mr. Gore and his research team predicted lower Manhattan would soon experience a devastating flood. Six years later that part of the city was flooded in the wake of 2012’s Hurricane Sandy. Directors Bonni Cohen and John Shenk filmed the former Vice President as he took his message to audiences in several countries who face the same environmental challenges we Americans do.
DESPICABLE ME 3 Rated: PG Release: June 30th The sibling rivalry between the now jobless Gru and his happier well-to-do brother Dru (both voiced by Steve Carell), a new vengeful villain and former child star Balthazar Bratt (Trey Parker), plus Gru's secret agent wife (Kristin Wiig) add more delightful mayhem to this wanna see sequel. And. of course, those irrepressible Minions are back wreaking havoc too. CARS 3 Rated: G Release: June 16th Lightening McQueen who dreams of a comeback in the Florida 500 gets an unexpected boost from a new ally, a smart business car named Sterling in a high-octane sequel from Pixar. SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING Rated: Not Yet Rated Release: July 5th British actor Tom Holland dons the superhero's spandex suit to confront a new villain, The Vulture, with help from Robert Downey's Iron Man. WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES Rated: Not Yet Rated Release date: July 14th “All of human history has led to this moment,” proclaims the villain in a sequel to 2014's Dawn Of The Planet of The Apes. Andy Serkis, without whom there is no Apes franchise, reprises the role of Caesar, the clever, resourceful chimpanzee with a high IQ and leadership skills to match. Caesar and his ape warriors are threatened by a psychotic enemy known as the Colonel (Woody Harrelson) who with his well-armed soldiers is on a mission to kill Caesar and annihilate the ape population. I for one am rooting for Caesar.
DUNKIRK Rated: PG-13 Release: July 21st Director Christopher Nolan who took moviegoers to a dystopian future in 2013’s Oscar-nominated Interstellar recreates one of the historic battles of the past with a cast of thousands. The year is 1940, and the location is the beach where Allied troops were surrounded by German soldiers. How 300,000 men miraculously were evacuated and survived the journey from the coast of France to England’s shores is a story worth re-telling for millennials and members of the Greatest Generation alike. Tom Hardy who was Oscar nominated for The Revenant and had the title role in Mad Max Fury Road plays a brash fighter pilot. Oscar winner Mark Rylance, Sir Kenneth Branagh, John Mills, Richard Attenborough and Lionel Jeffries are among the distinguished members of Dunkirk’s cast.
TRANSFORMERS THE LAST KNIGHT Rated: Not Yet Rated Release date: June 21st According to an astronomer (Anthony Hopkins), the current generation of Hasbro robots is descended from a long line of shapeshifters dating back to King Arthur and the Knights of The Roundtable. An Oxford scholar Viviane Wembly (Laura Haddock) makes a connection with Hot Rod the Autobot, who in the form of a Citroen DS, serves as her guardian angel. Mark Wahlberg adds moral and muscular support as the reliable, good guy mechanic and Michael Bay was back in the director’s chair to helm the fifth film in the series which began ten years ago.
About Pat Collins Pat Collins is a three-time Emmy award-winning film, theater and entertainment critic/reporter. Her outstanding media credits include WCBS-TV, Good Morning America and WWOR-TV. She is a contributor to CUNY-TV’s Arts and The City program and the host of several Broadway specials including Kinky Boots On Broadway, Fiddler On The Roof: Back On Broadway, and The Road To The Tonys. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 91
ON STAGE By Pat Collins THE TERMS OF MY SURRENDER Belasco Theater Michael Moore who won an Academy Award for the documentary Bowling For Columbine makes his Broadway debut in a one-man show guaranteed to enrage Donald Trump. Mr. Moore, who describes the country like the United States of Insanity, skewers the current occupant of the Oval Office and those in his inner circle. The often controversial filmmaker and author took on the country’s health crisis in Sicko and looked under the hood of the car industry in Roger And Me. Stupid White Men and his seven other books made the bestseller list. The limited engagement begins July 28th.
BUILDING THE WALL New World Stages One of Donald Trump’s most controversial campaign promises to build a wall along the US-Mexican border inspired Pulitzer Prize winner Robert Schenkkan to write a two person suspense thriller which examines the country’s political landscape and its future. This is not Mr. Schenkkan’s first play to focus on a sitting president. He authored the Tony Award-winning All The Way with Bryan Cranston as Lyndon Johnson; he won the Tony for best actor. Mr. Schenkkan’s also received an Oscar nomination for his Hacksaw Ridge screenplay. Building The Wall’s co-stars are James Badge Dale and Tamara Tunie. The production’s limited engagement ends July 9th. MARY POPPINS Papermill Playhouse The English nanny who changes the lives of Mr. Banks and his children is back on stage in a revival based on P. L. Travers books and the 1964 Walt Disney movie with Richard and Robert Sherman’s score and a book by Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes. Elena Shaddow, whose Broadway credits include Fiddler On The Roof and Les Miz has the titular role and Mark Evans, who appeared in the London productions of Wicked and Spamalot, is Bert. The original production received seven Tony nominations and two Olivier Awards. On the topic of accolades Papermill Playhouse (Millburn, New Jersey; 973376-4343) won The Regional Theater Award at last year’s Tony ceremony. 92 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
JULIUS CAESAR The Delacorte Theater “Men at some time are masters of their fates. The fault, dear Brutus is not in our stars but in ourselves that we are underlings, Cassius.” One of the many joys of spending summers in NYC is the Public Theater’s Shakespeare In The Park, an annual event which began 55 years ago. The production of Julius Caesar, directed by The Public’s Artistic Director Oskar Eustis runs through June 18th. Gregg Henry who has the titular role is joined on stage by Elizabeth Marvel (Antony), Corey Stoll (Marcus Brutus), and John Douglas Thompson (Caius Cassius). Free tickets (2 per person) are distributed at The Delacorte in Central Park beginning at noon on the day of each performance. To reach the Delacorte choose one of these routes: enter the park at 81st Street and Central Park West or 79th Street and Fifth Avenue. Before or after the performance raise a glass to toast Joe Papp, the Public Theater’s late founder who had the inspired idea to make the Bard’s plays accessible to all.
BRIAN STOKES MITCHELL Feinstein’s/54 Below The New York Times described him as Broadway’s last leading man. He is also the recipient of two Tony Awards, a recent Theater Hall Of Fame inductee, and longtime Chairman Of The Board Of The Actors Fund. The star of Man Of La Mancha, Ragtime and Kiss Me, Kate—to name a few of his Broadway hits—makes his solo debut at Feinstein’s on West 54th Street on June 13th. It is the first of seven appearances. On Stokes’ song list are memorable show tunes, other standards and a selection of new material from his soon to be released new album Plays With Music. Performance dates include June 13th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 20th, 21st, 23rd, and 24th. He will be accompanied by a trio led by his long-time pianist and collaborator Tedd Firth. •
LAST CALL ON BROADWAY The final curtain will come down for the following shows. LILLIAN HELLMAN’S LITTLE FOXES The Samuel J. Friedman Theater Laura Linney and Cynthia Nixon alternate playing the roles of Regina Giddens and Birdie Hubbard in this Manhattan Theater Club production’s celebrated revival. Final performance is July 2nd.
SIX DEGREES OF SEPARATION Ethel Barrymore Theater The Tony-nominated revival of John Guare’s play with Allison Janney, Benjamin Hickey and the show’s young co-star Corey Hawkins whose performances brought him a Tony nomination as well will close July 16th.
PRESENT LAUGHTER St. James Theater Kevin Kline returned to Broadway after a 16-year absence in this Tony-nominated revival of Noel Coward’s witty 1939 comedy. Mr. Kline earned a nomination too as Garry Essendine, a self-absorbed actor experiencing a mid-life crisis. Final curtain is July 2nd. SUNSET BOULEVARD The Palace Theater Make plans now to see Tony and Oscar winner Glenn Close’s matchless portrayal of Norma Desmond before her last curtain call on June 25th.
CURTAIN UP The New York Public Library for The Performing Arts Helen Mirren’s Queen Elizabeth gown from The Audience; the original boots from Kinky Boots; the masks, and costumes from The Lion King; set models from Matilda The Musical; and all the top hats from A Chorus Line are among the unique items on display at the Library’s current exhibition. The event was co-curated by the Library and London’s Victoria and Albert Museum to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of The Tonys and the 40th anniversary of the Olivier Awards. This must see event for theater lovers closes June 30th. Admission is free. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 93
PAT COLLINS’ PICKS OF HOME ENTERTAINMENT RELEASES BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Rated PG “A tale as old as time” is a story that made millions for Disney when the enchanting animated movie was released in 1991 and added more to the Mouse House’s fortune with the arrival earlier this year of the live action adaptation of the French fairy tale. According to Box Office Mojo, the film directed by Bill Condon took in $1,207,375,013 at the global box and replaced Finding Dory as the most financially successful PG-rated movie. Emma Watson and Dan Stevens (superb as the title characters), are splendidly supported by a who’s who of famous actors in the voice cast: Ian McKellen (Cogsworth), Audra McDonald (Madame de Garderobe), Emma Thompson (Mrs. Potts), Josh Gad (Le Fou), Stanley Tucci (Maestro Cadenza), Luke Evans (the pompous Gaston), Kevin Klein (Maurice), and Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Plumette). Oscar winner Alan Menken wrote the score. Mom and Dad, this is the must-have Blu-ray/DVD for those “are we there yet” trips to the beach, baseball games, or grandma and grandpa’s house. THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE Rated PG Combine two famous iconic brands, and the result is a family-friendly blockbuster which grossed $310 million at the international box office. In this spin-off of the 2013 Lego movie, The Black Knight outwits The Joker, his arch-enemy, and also vanquishes other legendary villains including King Kong and the Wicked Witch. Rosario Dawson voices Police Commissioner Barbara Gordon who unlike her father (Hector Elizondo) remains skeptical of Batman’s unorthodox crime fighting methods and informs him that his services are no longer needed. Some of the other stellar voice cast members are Ralph Fiennes (Alfred), Michael Cera (Robin), Mariah Carey (Mayor McCaskill) and Eddie Izzard (Lord Voldemort). What is he doing in a Lego/Batman movie? His character like all the others can be purchased in Lego form—Ca-Ching! Although the film is a genuine hit, it did not surpass the box office take of the original Lego movie which took in $496 million. A UNITED KINGDOM Rated PG-13 Love does not always conquer all, but occasionally a real life love story inspires a director— in this case, Amma Asante—to make an uplifting and genuinely heartwarming film. David Oyelowo, who memorably played Dr. Martin Luther King in Selma, adds another real-life leader to his filmography—Sir Seretse Khama, the heir to the throne of Bechuanaland (now Botswana)—formerly a British protectorate in South Africa. While in London attending law school in the late 40’s he marries Ruth (Rosamund Pike), a secretary who is white. Her parents disapprove of the match as does his uncle, the country’s Regent, and the British government. “If you marry you will be responsible for the downfall of the British government in Africa” declares one highly placed official. The couple proves all of them wrong but not before tirelessly working to earn the trust and respect of his subjects’ who initially doubt his ability to govern. Mr. Oyelowo and Ms. Pike deliver splendid performances, and their film received an 83 percent approval rating from the critics according to Rotten Tomatoes. JOHN WICK: CHAPTER 2 Rated R Keanu Reeves and Lawrence Fishburne who co-starred in The Matrix 18 years ago reunite in this crime thriller, a sequel to the 2014 movie which introduced the titular character: A professional hit man who wears bespoke suits and drives a Ford Mustang Mach1. Wick refuses and then accepts an assignment to kill a crime lord’s sister and then he finds himself on a gangster’s hit list. According to the rules of The Continental (a secret society of assassins), he is required to dispose of any target a fellow member asks to be eliminated. Wick is forced to put his retirement plans on hold and instead flees to Rome to elude a gunman and his other enemies. Mr. Fishburne adds a menacing persona as the crime boss known at The Bowery King and Common plays another dangerous opponent. Director Chad Stahelski’s action packed movie received high marks from critics and audience members alike. Moviegoers who saw the first film will better enjoy the sequel. 94 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
THE YOUNG POPE “They chose a pope they did not know, and today they’re beginning to realize who I am.” -Pope Pius XIII The first American to wear the pope’s miter, the fictional Pope Pius XIII (Jude Law) has more in common with Donald Trump than he does with the wise Pope Francis. The vengeful, controversial and unpredictable young Pontiff tweets more than he prays. The critically acclaimed HBO production is the first ever television series to be included in the Venice Film Festival. The show’s director Paolo Sorrentino assembled a cast of excellent actors including Diane Keaton as the nun who raised the child who would rise to head the Roman Catholic Church hierarchy and James Cromwell in the role of Cardinal Michael Spencer. Loyal viewers who prayed for the second season had those prayers answered last fall when HBO greenlit Season 2.
THE ASSIGNMENT Rated R Rachel Kay (Sigourney Weaver) is a deranged, vengeful surgeon who hires mobster John Hartunian (Anthony LaPaglia) to kidnap Frank Kitchen, the man who killed her brother. In an unusual act of vengeance, Dr. Kay turns Frank into a woman (Michelle Rodriguez playing both female and male roles). The gender reassignment/crime thriller directed by Walter Hill was boycotted by the transgender community and panned by most critics.
ALL NIGHTER Rated R A successful, brusque work-alcoholic businessman’s plans to reconnect with his estranged daughter during a brief layover in L.A. go awry in a comedy co-starring Oscar winner J. K. Simmons and Emile Hirsch as the daughter’s clueless boyfriend Martin. The problem is daughter Ginnie (Analeigh Tipton) is missing. Most of the movie is devoted to their search and the likely problems they encounter along the way. Mr. Simmons’ career will not be adversely affected by this film which scored a zero percent Rotten Tomatoes critics rating.
SOUTH PARK: SEASON 20 The series irreverently funny co-creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone created a Donald Trump-like character named Garrison who moves into the Oval Office woefully unprepared to be the leader of the Free World. In other Parker/Stone news, the cast of their Tony-winning musical, The Book of Mormon continues to delight audiences at the Eugene O’Neill Theater. •
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 95
MARVELOUS MARVIN HAMLISCH By Barbara Carole Sickmen
here I was at the Friars Club, face to face with Marvelous Marvin Hamlisch, the composer my mother always believed her lyricist daughter should be working with. After a brief and cordial chat about Sag Harbor, the New York Yankees, and A Chorus Line, I found the courage to tell him I was a lyricist who would love to do a project with him someday. “Bring me something that I like, and maybe we will,” he replied. We took a photo on that day, and by the smile on my face, I knew at that moment I would bring him something that he would love. My lifelong dream and my mother’s intuition about her daughter and Marvelous Marvin Hamlisch sitting at my piano had real possibilities. The year was 2009, and I had just optioned the rights from the Liberace Foundation for the Performing and Creative Arts to do a first class dramatic stage musical about the greatest entertainer of the 20th century. Ironically, my attorney was the late (and also great) Seth Gelblum, who represented Marvin as well. This coincidence gave me added confidence that I was on the path to our working together. I was reading an old copy of one of my Dramatist Guild journals, dated January/February 2005, when another coincidence occurred. Marvin had given an excellent interview to Andrew Lippa about writing for Broadway musicals. As I read it, there it was as clear as it could be—it would forever be Marvin Hamlisch and me! He told the writer he had approached Woody Allen to option the rights to Bullets Over Broadway, but Woody turned him down. That was my “lightbulb” moment. At that moment I knew I had the right project for Marvin.
THE START OF SOMETHING GREAT At the time, Marvin was represented by Barlow-Hartman Public Relations. I called to tell them I would like to speak with Marvin about an exciting new musical project. I left my contact information and literally within five minutes my phone rang. It was Marvelous Marvin. After the initial shock had worn off, I gathered my courage and focused on my original concept for my Liberace musical. I asked, “Marvin, did you like Liberace?” “Yes,” he said, “he was a sweetheart.” I then asked, “What about Bugsy Siegel?” And he questioned, “What does Bugsy Siegel have to do with Liberace?” I quickly responded, “Would you believe it was Benjamin Siegel who discovered Liberace in early Las Vegas and wanted him to appear at his new Flamingo Hotel and Casino?” Of course, Benjamin Siegel never took to being known as Bugsy. But Marvin told me he liked what I was telling him, and asked that I mail him my song titles, lyrics and original concept to his New York apartment. He’d read the material, and upon his return from conducting the Pittsburg Symphony, he’d get back to me. It was on Easter Sunday 2009 when I received a phone call from Marvin telling me he liked what he read, and asked when we could have a sit-down discussion. I replied, whenever he wanted a meeting I’d be available. “How about today? he responded. Within the hour there he was at my apartment door for our first official discussion about my Liberace musical project. He gave me a few guidelines concerning how he liked to work from song titles and six lines of lyric. He preferred that everyone on our team stay in his own lane. And so the collaboration began. Marvin would always call exactly when he said he would, and our conversations were always such a joy. He was funny, charming, humble and knowledgeable about how our musical needed to be structured with big flashy production numbers. 96 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
A GREAT COLLABORATOR At the time of our early meetings, Marvin was in the process of finishing his work on The Nutty Professor with Jerry Lewis, conducting The Pittsburgh Symphony, other projects around the globe, as well as his movie scoring work. Talk about multi-tasking, Marvin was truly a Renaissance man. Although he was often out of town, he always found time to accompany me to attend meetings with various Broadway producers. The late Martin Richards, just before his death, had been interested in our project; having known Marvin from the beautiful score he wrote for The Sweet Smell of Success. I recall Marvin telling me, “I was never going to come back to Broadway, Barbara, but I like this concept. I think we can make it work.” Knowing how much Marvin appreciated what we were working on was enough to inspire me to follow his guidelines as we began to form a solid working relationship. He was an excellent teacher and a great collaborator. I honestly believe this incredible composer would be delighted to see how far I’ve come since his untimely death which stopped our project cold for two years. His incredible accomplishments in film and Broadway scores will live on forever. Marvin’s music was melodic, magical and velvet on the ear. He will be forever missed in the world that loved and revered him for his kindness, his humility and his elegant, unforgettable music that stays in your head forever.
Barbara Carole Sickmen and friend with Marvin Hamlisch
Memories of him, his artistry, his kindness, his music, his wit coupled with his sound advice about how we intended to construct my musical remain a cherished memory. The idea to write this tribute to Marvin’s memory came to me when The New York Musical Theater Festival gave me my dates for our upcoming production of Ben, Virginia and Me: The Liberace Musical this summer. It is slated to open August 2nd and run through August 6th and be the closing night musical at the festival. Amazingly, the closing date coincidentally marks the fifth anniversary of Marvin’s death. But as a spiritual person, I believe there are no coincidences. Somewhere out there, Marvin knows the show must go on! “Once the bug bites, you’re infected with this wonderful disease called Broadway!” Marvin Hamlisch—In Loving Memory. • Barbara Carole Sickmen is a lyricist/composer and recording artist who has performed onstage with Eddie Fisher, Jerry Vale, Alan King, Buddy Hackett, George Jessel, and Jackie Mason. She was a resident playwright at Kids For Kids Theater, where she developed musicals including Alice in Appleland and The Prince of Poland (Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis). She taught Theater Arts at Stony Brook University with John Houseman and Martin Gottfried and is a member of the Dramatists Guild, ASCAP and Women in Theater. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 97
RUMBLE: THE INDIANS WHO ROCKED THE WORLD By Richie Realms any artists and musical forms played a role in the creation of rock, but arguably no single piece of music was more influential than the 1958 instrumental “Rumble” by American Indian rock guitarist and singer/songwriter Link Wray. When recalling Link Wray’s shivering guitar classic, “Rumble,” Martin Scorsese marvels, “It is the sound of that guitar . . . that aggression.” “Rumble” was the first song to use distortion and feedback. It introduced the rock power chord – and was one of the very few instrumental singles to be banned from the radio for fear it would incite violence. RUMBLE explores how the Native American influence is an integral part of music history, despite attempts to ban, censor, and erase Indian culture in the United States. As RUMBLE reveals, the early pioneers of the blues had Native as well as African American roots, and one of the first and most influential jazz singers’ voices was trained on Native American songs. As the folk rock era took hold in the 60s and 70s, Native Americans helped to define its evolution. Father of the Delta Blues Charley Patton, influential jazz singer Mildred Bailey, metaphysical guitar wizard Jimi Hendrix, and folk heroine Buffy Sainte-Marie are among the many music greats who have Native American heritage and have made their distinctive mark on music history. For the most part, their Indian heritage was unknown. RUMBLE uses playful re-creations and little-known stories, alongside concert footage, archives and interviews. The stories of these iconic Native musicians are told by some of America’s greatest music legends who knew them, played music with them, and were inspired by them: everyone from Buddy Guy, Quincy Jones, and Tony Bennett to Iggy Pop, Steven Tyler, and Stevie Van Zandt. RUMBLE shows how Indigenous music was part of the very fabric of American popular music from the beginning, but that the Native American contribution was left out of the story – until now.
Rumble is the greatest instrumental ever. -Bob Dylan
Steven Van Zandt
He’s the king. If it hadn’t been for Link Wray and RUMBLE, I’d have never picked up a guitar. -Pete Townsend
Buffy Sainte-Marie
If I could travel back in time to see one band, it would be Link Wray and the Ray Men. -Neil Young
RUMBLE: THE INDIANS WHO ROCKED THE WORLD TO OPEN JULY 26, at Film Forum 209 W, Houston St., NYC, NY 212-727-8110 in New York City and July 28 at the Ted Rogers Hot Docs Cinema in Toronto before expanding to cities across the U.S. and Canada. 98 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
RUMBLE: THE INDIANS WHO ROCKED THE WORLD A feature documentary about the role of Native Americans in popular music history.
Director Catherine Bainbridge, Co-director Alfonso Maiorana and Exec Producer Ernest Webb accepted the Rogers Audience Award
MAY 8, 2017 “RUMBLE” WINS ROGERS AUDIENCE AWARD FOR BEST CANADIAN DOCUMENTARY AT HOT DOCS The audiences have spoken! Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World won the inaugural Rogers Audience Award for Best Canadian Documentary at Hot Docs. Rumble was announced as the winner prior to a free screening of the film at Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema to close the festival.
MARCH 1, 2017 RUMBLE’S COLORADO PREMIERE WON BIFF’S BEST MUSICAL DOCUMENTARY Catherine Bainbridge and co-director Alfonso Maiorana lovingly and truthfully illuminate an important and fascinating musical legacy.
MARTIN SCORSESE
MARCH 1, 2017
QUINCY JONES
RUMBLE : THE INDIANS WHO ROCKED THE WORLD’ DOCUMENTARY LANDS AT KINO LORBER Kino Lorber has acquired most North American rights to Rezolution Pictures’ documentary “Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World,” and plans a summer theatrical release.
STEVEN TYLER STEVEN VAN ZANDT IGGY POP LINK WRAY BUFFY SAINTE-MARIE
JANUARY 1, 2017
ROBBIE ROBERTSON
RUMBLE WINS AWARD AT SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL Montreal-based filmmakers won the World Cinema Documentary Special Jury Award for Masterful Storytelling for their film exploring the often-unheralded contributions of Native Americans in shaping popular song.
Link Wray made the guitar the weapon of choice in rock and roll. -Greg Laxton / Link Wray historian
FEATURING
JESSE ED DAVIS JIMI HENDRIX GEORGE CLINTON SLASH RANDY CASTILLO and more... www.rumblethemovie.com www.rezolutionpictures.com
JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 99
Positively Ernie
CHANNEL 5 NEWS AT 6PM
A BIT OF COUNTRY WITHIN THE CITY By Clint Brownfield
et’s face it, this Spring had its fits and starts, with unseasonable cool temperatures masking the weather maps. Hopefully by the time you read this, ‘normal’ June weather will be ushering us New Yorkers into a much-welcomed Summer of sun and fun. In case you don’t have a country house (or a share in one this year), there are plenty of ways to “get away from it all” without even leaving the confines of the five boroughs. Two fabulous standouts are the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the New York Botanical Garden—where you can tiptoe through the tulips and just about any other flower you can think of.
BROOKLYN BOTANIC GARDEN The Northern end of Brooklyn’s 585-acre Prospect Park offers a cultural trifecta: The Brooklyn Public Library, The Brooklyn Museum and the alwaysgorgeous 52-acre Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG), which is about the size of 55 football fields. And just to the south is the Prospect Park Zoo. It has been said that we often forget to stop and smell the roses. Well, you can correct that by heading to the BBG in June to savor Rose Month—where the Cranford Rose Garden has been one of the most popular attractions since it first opened in 1928.
Childrens Garden House ©Antonio M. Rosario
RAMBLING ROSES In June, when the roses are in full bloom, tens of thousands of blossoms cascade down arches, climb lattices and clamber over the pavilion—all superstars in one of the largest collections in North America where over a thousand types of roses are cultivated. This glorious garden within a garden is a repository for roses both old and modern and some of the first roses planted in 1927 are still thriving in the garden today—more than 1,000 varieties in all. Lily Pool Terrace
Bluebell Wood ©Antonio M. Rosario
But, as they say: There’s more! The other big news at the BBG this Summer is the newly opened Yellow Magnolia Café. This isn’t some concession selling hotdogs and soft drinks but rather a major destination restaurant, open for lunch Tuesday through Friday, 11 am to 5 pm; Saturday and Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm (look for weekly brunch specials). Reservations are recommended, although drop-ins are welcome on a first-come basis. The yellow magnolia tree, the café’s namesake, was first developed at the BBG and its flowers provided inspiration for noted architect David Rockwell who designed the restaurant and its interiors. Set in a long greenhouse, the café features a mural of yellow magnolia flowers and looks out onto the BBG’s famed (and soothing) Lily Pool Terrace. The café is a wing of the historical Palm House, a glass and steel structure designed by McKim, Mead & White, dedicated in 1917 as the Conservatory. Today it’s available for special events and weddings. The café and Palm House are both run by Patina Restaurant Group (Lincoln, Sea Grill among others) where chef and restaurateur Rob Newton of Smith Street fame (Brooklyn) offers his take on what food served in a botanic setting should be. Emphasis is placed on locally sourced organic/natural produce and meats and is served in a clean and straightforward manner. But, there is also a great burger and crispy fried chicken on the menu. There’s whimsy, too: the fried chicken is accompanied with a small bottle with an eye-dropped in it, so you can add hot sauce to taste. The menu, of course, will change with the seasons so visit this urban oasis as often as you can—whether the roses are in bloom, or not.
Cranford Rose Garden ©Antonio M. Rosario 102 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
For more information on the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (990 Washington Avenue; 718-623-7200), visit bbg.org.
Enid a Haupt Conservatory
NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN It could not be easier to travel to the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) in The Bronx. Just hop on the MetroNorth Harlem local line at Grand Central (or 125th Street), and 20 minutes later you’ll be at the Botanical Garden stop, just across from the main entrance.
Red Reeds on Logs
Each year more than one million visitors explore the gardens, which feature more than one million plants. NEW EXHIBIT But don’t worry, there is plenty of room for everybody at this 250-acre national landmark that first opened to the Through October 29th, there’s a major, once-in-a-lifetime special exhibit. For public in 1891. the first time in New York City, in more than ten years, works by Dale Chihuly are being featured. Twenty installations of his artworks are currently on view throughout the NYBG gardens and its structures. The garden’s already dramatic vistas become living canvases for work created specifically for NYBG, showcasing Seattle-based Chihuly’s signature organic shapes. Within the 20 installations, three new works enliven the water features of the Native Plant Garden and the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory Courtyard’s Tropical Pool, reflecting the interplay and movement of color and light.
Seaforms
You can easily spend a day viewing the regular offerings at NYBG and the unique Chihuly installations. You don’t even have to leave the grounds to enjoy a nice meal or snack at the casual Pine Tree Café or the full-service Hudson Garden Grill within the idyllic setting of the 40-acre Ross Conifer Arboretum. On “Chihuly Nights,” the exhibition is infused with an incredible, perhaps even magical, energy as the artworks are illuminated amid NYBG’s already spectacular vistas and magnificent Conservatory. You will most likely want to do what thousands of others do each year— become a member of the NYBG and enter as many times as you wish, year round, at no charge beyond the initial membership fee. There are special weekend celebrations, films, and poetry and art programs for all ages offering colorful and imaginative tributes to nature. For more information on New York Botanical Garden (2900 Southern Blvd.; 718-817-8700), visit nybg.org. •
Sapphire Star
Clint Brownfield is a travel, food and beverage writer and has reported from all seven continents, more than 100 countries and 45 states. He is based in New York City—his favorite destination in the world. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 103
Help Cure Food Insecurity Food Insecurity happens when the poor, the disabled, the elderly – wonder whether they will have enough food to feed themselves and their families. St. Francis Food Pantries and Shelters have strived to eradicate food insecurity by feeding the children who play in your neighborhood parks, the working poor, the lonely and marginalized with the welcoming respect that St. Francis epitomized. It all starts with confronting food insecurity. Then, doors are open to so many more ways we can serve our neighbors in need.
St. Francis Food Pantries and Shelters
Feeding, clothing and counseling families in need. Tel: (212) 279-6171
www.stfrancispantries.org
YOU can donate. YOU can volunteer. YOU is the key word. Everyone of ‘YOU’ has something special and unique that you can contribute to the cause.
St. Francis Food Pantries and Shelters, New York’s answer to food insecurity.
THE HAMPTONS PET SET By Lori Zelenko and Susan Traub
eading out to The Hamptons with your pet? With sand and sea on our minds, we wanted to share practical and personal tips for a happy and healthy summer vacation in The Hamptons. Whether it’s for a weekend, a few weeks, or the entire season, here’s the scoop on how to maximize fun in the sun with your pet. The inside track on how to get there, where to stay and how to keep your pet safe and healthy.
GETTING THERE Getting there is half the fun. Whether by train, plane or automobile (i.e. jitney), there are variations from the affordable to the sublime. Starting at the top, the fastest pet-friendly way to travel to The Hamptons is by Blade Helicopter that services Long Island. Easily able to accommodate pets up to 25 pounds (without an additional fee), ‘coptering is quick and easy. Larger pets over 25 pounds can be accommodated with prior planning. Helicopters have weight restrictions; meaning if you are accompanied by a 125-pound Mastiff, maybe a private jet is your best choice. Traveling with a large puppy or tiny lap dog, arriving at Teterboro from LA? What to do to get out East? Fly private, of course. And the best choice with the least commitments, JetWay Private Air. Geared up for spontaneous travel and pet-friendly to the max, JetWay is ready to accommodate the “one-offs”— travelers with pets who need a swift, luxurious and prompt lift to The Hamptons. No long-term contracts, a 60 percent savings over similar private jet programs, no blackout days, no upfront deposits and most importantly, no restrictions on pets; that’s JetWay’s way of doing business. It’s not often that a pilot himself helms a company, but this is the case Chet Dudzik at JetWay Private Air counts on with his impressive in-flight expertise to assure an extra level of safety and precaution at every altitude, from the ground up. Of course, there is still the Hampton Jitney; affordable and convenient but prone to the pitfalls of getting stuck in traffic. Pets are allowed on board the Jitney in carrying cases, with a 12-ride pack costing $108. Passengers with service dogs may travel with their dog out of a carrier. However, the law has been updated to narrow the definition of service animals to dogs that are trained to perform specific tasks related to the owner’s proven disability. Emotional support animals sadly no longer qualify. If it’s likely that you or your house guests and their “fur babies,” will have a layover in Manhattan, Julie Weintraub of the real estate firm, AKAM Living Services for “discerning owners,” suggests staying at NYC’s Kimpton Hotels where they have a Director of Pet Relations on staff. Not only does Kimpton offer “fetching” pet perks such as a VIP (Very Important Pet) amenity delivered to your room, but also pet bowls, pet beds, dog leash and other necessities for your stay. With prior planning, there’s little or nothing they won’t do to pamper your pooch.
At NYC’s pet friendly Kimpton Hotel, Ella relaxes in style Photo by Barney A. Bishop
LUXURY OR LESS—RENTER’S RESOURCES Once out East with your pet, where to go to find a home that’s unparalleled in luxury or even simply comfortable? If it’s luxury you’re looking for, Quintessentially Estates (QE) has the key. According to Penny Mosgrove, CEO of Quintessentially Estates, Sagaponack (close to the East Hampton Airport a choice for the private jet traveler and near Bridgehampton, making it closer to the city) is the preferred zip code. It’s for the exceptionally affluent clientele who demands customization, “a bespoke experience” in all aspects of their Hamptons stay. QE is global, assisting clients near and far looking for the million dollar property to sell or acquire— whether coming from Manhattan, Malibu or even Hong Kong. But, for the more typical renter, go to BringFido.com for complete listings of petfriendly destinations—hotels, B&Bs, vacation rentals, restaurants, beaches, parks, shopping and pet events. Though cheaper than the million dollar listings, a one night room rental in East Hampton starts at $200-$300 for two adults and one pet. Pet fees may be an additional expense. The Maidstone in East Hampton considered the most pet-friendly hotel on the South Fork, has Yappy Hour for pets and people nightly (except Saturday) from 5 to 6:30 pm. Indeed, it’s as much a happening as coffee post-morning beach runs with your dog at The Golden Pear—the destination du jour in Southampton, Bridgehampton, East Hampton and Sag Harbor. Dogs are allowed on East Hampton’s Main Beach before 9 am or after 6 pm (these are regular hours during the season for most of The Hamptons beaches). But what to do when in search of an outdoor adventure with your dog? Head over to Cedar Point County Park the 5.6-mile hike to the lighthouse provides incredible views of Gardiner’s Bay and there is a mile long stretch of rocky coastline where your dog can swim in the ocean. Of course, BringFido.com has lots of great suggestions, but this was our favorite. Lauren’s Dog House for grooming is the first choice for locals like career coach/ author—The Wall Street Professional’s Survival Guide and advisory board member for Men’s Fitness—Roy Cohen who is out and about in East Hampton all year round. His cinnamon-colored mini Labradoodle, Oskar is a regular at Lauren’s. Perfect for a post-swim pick me up for your pooch pre-Yappy Hour as Lauren is on Springs Fireplace Road, not too far away from the Maidstone, so the nightmare of Hamptons Summer traffic may not be unbearable. In fact, there’s a fenced in dog park nearby, Springs Park Dog Park, so a pre-bath play session may be just what your pooch needs to get happily exhausted pre-grooming for him or her and pre-cocktails for you. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 105
NATURAL LIVING Luxury is not always over the top. It can be down to earth as well. Sit Stay Forever makes organic cotton beds with toxinfree eco-fill. As dogs often sleep 10 to 12 hours a day, it’s best to assure that they are napping on a bed that puts their health first. Why such conscientiousness when it comes to natural materials for our furry friends? Says Steve Whitney who created Sit Stay Forever to assure the health and well-being of pets of all shapes and sizes: “If the FDA regulates the chemical safety of human bedding and linen, we owe our pets the same.” Available at The Dog Store in Wainscott—a must destination for every pet parent out East—Sit Stay Forever is a natural this season with coordinated carriers perfect for toting your pet to a Polo match or jumping on the Jitney. Your pet is welcome to join you for a private yoga session on the beach with Claudia Matles. Her “assistant” Julian (one dog who’s perfected his downward dog pose!) goes with Claudia everywhere including her inspirational Yoga classes. Surely Julian shares the consensus that Claudia’s teaching is a rewarding, gentle but still demanding way to renew mind and body. When gazing out a picture window of an East End home we see an expanse of grass, but we don’t think about the dangers of synthetic lawn and garden chemicals particularly to our pets. After all, pets spend more time running on, rolling around on—and occasionally nibbling on—grass, so they run a higher risk of poisoning due to pesticide exposure. Perfect Earth, a rapidly expanding nonprofit organization founded in East Hampton by Edwina Von Gal, offers education about natural, PRFCT (toxinfree) techniques for maintaining a pethealthy perfect lawn. So be aware if your pet’s paws become red and itchy it could well be from the pesticides and herbicides used on the grass. Do not let your pet lick their paws and ingest the toxic chemicals. Watch your pet carefully and monitor their paws and fur, in fact keeping a portable lint roller handy is an excellent way to snag fleas and ticks after a walk in the woods or even a stroll down a grassy lane. Just run it over your pet’s coat without too much pressure, paying close attention to the belly and legs; it may just pick up some of these nasty critters before they can do too much damage. Evercare makes a colorful, easy to put in your pocket lint roller that does the trick; pick up a few to last the summer before you leave town, they are an affordable $3.99 each. You can find them at Bed Bath & Beyond or Amazon.com.
SUMMER PET DIRECTRY BLADE HELICOPTER Allows pets up to 25 lbs. without a fee or special arrangement on direct flights to/ from Hamptons. Pets must be in carriers (flyblade.com). JETWAY PRIVATE AIR Subscription-free pet friendly private jet service to/from The Hamptons. No restrictions on pet travel (jetwayprivateair.com). QUINTESSENTIALLY ESTATES Although based in London, they have an U.S. presence to handle the sale and acquisition of properties worldwide including The Hamptons. Info: info@ quintessentiallyestates.com
HAMPTON JITNEY Take advantage of their Pet Pack of 12 tickets for $108 (hamptonjitney.com). THE MAIDSTONE The pet-friendly haven is also known for their popular Yappy Hour all season (themaidstone.com). DOG TRAINER Lisa Hartman demonstrates innovative, modern, and humane methods of dog training. Helpful with city pets new to country life (lisathedogtrainer.com). VET Dr. Cindy Bressler offers a mobile house call practice (drcindybressler.com).
BRING FIDO For complete listings of pet-friendly destinations and events in The Hamptons (bringfido.com).
GROOMER Lauren’s Dog House in East Hampton is a favorite for pet grooming. By appointment (Phone: 631-204-7517).
SIT STAY FOREVER Dog beds and carriers in linens and cottons all made of non-toxic, ecofriendly materials. Chic prints with Hampton’s flair available this Summer (sitstayforever.com).
LED LIGHT HARNESS Royal Animals lets you put safety first with their glow in the dark LED light illuminating harnesses, raincoats and leashes (royalanimals.com).
THE DOG STORE IN WAINSCOTT On Montauk Highway, it is the outpost for pet grooming and accessories. Owned by Edward Alava (Phone: 631-527-5757).
YOGA Claudia Matles, Yoga and Pilates teacher, expands your mind and body awareness. Dogs invited to attend sessions as guests (claudiamatles.com).
PERFECT EARTH Perfect Earth Project promotes toxinfree lawns and landscapes for the health of people, their pets, and the planet (perfectearthproject.org).
ANIMAL RESCUE FUND OF THE HAMPTONS Get your tickets for the annual Bow Wow Meow Ball this August 19th to help support the ARF (arfhamptons.org).
SAFETY FIRST When a pet arrives out East, it’s a field day! New smells abound, rabbits, foxes, deer, squirrels and more. What’s a dog to do? Chase is the first response. Lisa The Dog Trainer trains city dogs who spend time on the East End, working with them, so they don’t forget all their good behavior, creating a structure that helps pet and owner have a worry-free season. Royal Animals puts safety first with their line of LED harnesses, raincoats and leashes. Their bright light technology makes your pet easy to see in the dark, helpful especially if your pet is off-leash in an unfamiliar or unenclosed place. You can find their essential pet gear at The Dog Store in Wainscott. The Hamptons serves as a beautiful backdrop in the summer with its gorgeous beaches and striking landscapes. With the beauty of these surroundings also comes a set of safety concerns for our pets explains Veterinarian Dr. Cindy Bressler who is available 24/7 for the pet emergencies that may demand a house call in The Hamptons. She cautions against the kind of exposure and activities a human can sustain but can be harmful to a pet. She cautions, “Don’t assume your pet can swim without lessons. Don’t allow your pet to stay in the sun too long; pets get sunburned too. Every pet owner out East should realize a Summer of long beach days, sand, salt water and rustic terrain can add up to a need for extra care for their pet.”
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SOCIAL LIFE The Animal Rescue Fund of the Hamptons summer events are a must-do. Save August 19th for the Bow Wow Meow Ball which this year will honor photographer Bruce Weber and his wife and collaborator, Nan Bush. (Weber is known for the Ralph Lauren campaigns as well as gorgeous shots of his dogs who are “models” themselves.) Says Alex Papachristidis, decorator to the elite (and yes, he designs practical rooms for pets too!) and board member of ARF as well as a devoted pet parent to his Yorkie, Teddy, “ARF is a no-kill shelter helping dogs and cats find loving homes regardless of how long it takes. ARF has implemented a mobile neuter and spay program helping those who can’t afford it as well as bringing down the numbers of stray animals. ARF is, and I cannot say this strongly enough, very important to The Hamptons.”
Quick Response Geotracking Tags For Your Pet www.pettrakr.com (877) 780-5371 Photo Tags Custom Photo Mugs Pet Memorials Clothing Gifts And More...
Now Available Author, philanthropist and animal advocate Jean Shafiroff at ARF fundraiser out East Photo courtesy Quintessentially Estates.
WITH A FINAL WOOF & PURRFECT ENDING Life in The Hamptons may indeed be blissful, but there are still precautions to take to assure that the magical moments with our pets are about beautiful memories. We are lucky to have our furry friends in our lives so let’s treasure the time together especially on vacation and be watchful as well as playful when it comes to having fun in the sun on the South Fork of Long Island. Lori Zelenko and Susan Traub have teamed up to write their series PAWS DOWN, TAILS UP to reveal exclusive personal insights into the luxe life of pets in New York City and beyond. Each a devoted dog owner as well as an entrepreneur, Lori and Susan are mutually dedicated to improving the well-being of pets. To learn more, email lzelenko@gmail.com. © 2017 Lori Zelenko and Susan Traub, All rights reserved.
Granite Pet Memorials
FullColor Photo Slate
Ramy Brook Sharp
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER By Judy Goss
t takes a ton of motivation and consistent perseverance to be a successful brand in the city, especially in such competitive industries like fashion and TV. But that didn’t faze the Shalotsky sisters originally from New Jersey who went after exactly what they wanted when they wanted it - and got it! Robi Ludwig & Ramy Brook Sharp
SELF-MADE CITY SISTERS You may recognize one of the sisters named Dr. Robi Ludwig from her countless TV segments who is a nationally renowned psychotherapist and award-winning reporter. And her sister is Ms. Ramy Sharp, the creative genius behind the iconic fashion brand “Ramy Brook,” who has taken the fashion world by storm with her unique day-to-night chicness. These two beautiful siblings grew up from a modest background before arriving in New York City and making their way to the top in their glamorous careers. As young, ambitious women coming to New York City, they were embarking on an adventurous journey that, not even they realized, existed for them. Dr. Ludwig went to school initially focusing on psychology/therapy, and Ms. Sharp began her career in New York City with a job at an advertising agency. Each, however, had other passions that they skillfully incorporated into their lives while settling down with a career and family in the Big Apple. Robi Ludwig in the office
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TV was always in Dr. Ludwig’s blood, even though becoming a therapist was the priority, so shortly after school, while working at a hospital, she approached the CEO of that hospital about representing them on TV. They took a chance on her and booked her on Good Day New York, where a producer from Montel Williams happened to see her and immediately snapped her up to be a regular on his show. That ignited her TV career instantly which snowballed delightfully over the years into repeat bookings on FOX, NBC, CNN, Headline News, ET, ABC and the list goes on. Dr. Ludwig continually appears on national segments today (years later!) as a psychological reporter while running a thriving private practice located on the Upper Eastside. As if that weren’t enough, in addition to all of that and raising three children, Dr. Ludwig is also the author of Your Best Age Is Now (HarperCollins) and a co-author of Til Death Do Us Part: Love, Marriage and the Mind of the Killer Spouse (Atria Books).
Ramy Brook Sharp & Robi Ludwig
MAKING LIFE HAPPEN Ramy Brook Sharp, Dr. Ludwig’s sister, had a similar drive but with a different passion—one distinctively for fashion. When asked what motivated her to start her clothing line, she answered, “When I opened my closet I felt I never had the right top to wear with my jeans. All I wanted was a sexy yet sophisticated top that looked good with jewelry. It didn’t exist for me, so I decided to design one for myself.” At the time she was a stay-at-home mom, having stepped down from a career in advertising to take care of three children. What’s fascinating is that Ms. Sharp had a background in something entirely different than the career she ultimately pursued in fashion. So design Ramy did, starting from her first blouse and quickly landed in Bergdorf Goodman within a year after she opened her company called “Ramy Brook.” Six years later, her line is now in Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomingdale’s, in addition to her flagship boutique in Soho, New York and countless other stores and online shops around the country. “I’m often asked what advice I would give to someone about starting a business. Stick to your vision and break down any walls even if people say it can’t be done.
Robi Ludwig
IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY Dr. Ludwig said, “It goes back to my mom and how we were raised—a vision of what we wanted to share with the world and we just did it. We were raised to own our strength and follow our passion; we were given confidence in that regard, we believed in ourselves.” It’s inspiring to hear stories of people’s incredible successes, but even more so to find out that as a family, these ladies were taught to embrace their power and femininity. To take risks and not let anyone stop them. Dr. Ludwig stated, “The idea of ‘Why not? Why not me?’” shines brilliantly through her illustrious career and loving family. Of course, ask these successful sisters what advice they would give an aspiring entrepreneur, and they both agree, “Go with your gut, find mentors to help and believe in yourself.” • Judy Goss is currently the radio show host of What Women Want with over 500,000 downloads and is a published author of St. Martin’s Press. She is also an entrepreneur who founded the nationally acclaimed networking organization What Women Want with its 20 chapters from New York to California. Judy is also a freelance journalist who interviews people about her favorite topic; their personal stories and what inspired them to be who they are today. JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 109
MY NEW YORK STORY By Julie Menin, Media & Entertainment Commissioner
have been New York’s Media & Entertainment Commissioner for a little more than a year and it has been action packed. Looking back on the whirlwind of activity, I could not be more proud of all that our office has accomplished. When Mayor Bill de Blasio appointed me to this position back in February 2016, he added several new creative industries to the agency’s portfolio. Along with film, TV, and theater, we also became the go-to agency for the music, publishing, advertising, and digital media industries. For the first time, these vital businesses had a home and an advocate in the City government. They are hugely important to New York’s identity and spirit as a cultural and entertainment capital, and they are vital to the health of the city’s economy. All told, the media and entertainment sectors account for 305,000 jobs and add $104 billion to our economy. The fact that they now have a city agency supporting them and their efforts to grow and create more great jobs for more New Yorkers is a win-win.
MUSIC TO YOUR EARS I am especially proud of the work our office has done in very short order with the music industry. Our first step was to convene over 75 music companies to talk about the challenges they face, and how the City can support them. Next, we commissioned a study of the economic impact of the music industry in New York and found that it is substantial, representing $21 billion in annual economic benefit, and $5 billion in wages. In fact, music related jobs and wages here in the city are growing slightly faster than those in the overall economy. We sell more tickets to live performances than the next three U.S. cities combined, and have twice as many digital music start-ups as San Francisco. It’s clear that in music, as in so many areas, New York is a magnet for talent and a hub of innovation. Still, musicians and the small venues where many of them hone their craft face significant challenges here, and our office is looking into ways to help them. We have programs providing free rehearsal space in the month of June as part of our New York Music Month celebration, and are in the process of creating an on-line toolkit for musicians to help them with the business side of their careers.
Julie Menin at the L.A. Grammys And then there is the work our office spearheaded to secure the return of The Grammy Awards to New York City in 2018. Luring music’s most watched awards show back here after 15 years in Los Angeles was a top priority for us from the start, and it took an almost Herculean effort to accomplish it. We arranged sponsorships, negotiated with labor unions and formed a host committee, which I now chair, to raise nearly $3 million dollars to help make up the the difference between mounting the show here as opposed to in L.A. The Grammy awards telecast from Madison Square Garden takes place on January 28, 2018. All the events leading up to the big night will offer a huge economic boon to the city which is estimated at $200 million all told, and hundreds of millions more in tourism dollars.
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Top left: Julie with President of Silvercup Studios Stuart Suna. Bottom left: Julie with graduates of the Roundabout Theatre Workforce Development Program, which trains young people for backstage careers and is funded by her office. Bottom: Julie and Mayor de Blasio being interviewed about the TV business in NYC.
BOOKS & BEYOND In publishing, which is also new to our portfolio, we launched a program this Spring that is so exciting. It’s called “One Book, One New York”—the largest community read in the country. We rolled it out a little differently than other cities have done with their One Book programs. A panel of literary experts chose five incredible books in which either the protagonist or author lived here at one time. The nominees were: Between the World and Me, by Ta-Nehisi Coates; The Sellout, by Paul Beatty; Americanah, by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie; The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, by Junot Diaz; and A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, by Betty Smith. New Yorkers were invited to vote for their favorite, and they did, in droves, tens of thousands of them. Americanah, which is wonderful and extremely timely with its themes of immigration, race, and identity, as well as being a terrific love story, won out. The City’s libraries and bookstores saw more traffic, New Yorkers struck up conversations with each other about the book on the subway, and we kept the conversation going with a whole host of stimulating events throughout the five boroughs in the last few months. The de Blasio administration is also fiercely committed to gender equity, diversity and access for all New Yorkers to opportunities in the entertainment industry. Study after study has shown that women—along with people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and people with disabilities, and other groups—are consistently underrepresented both on camera and behind the scenes in TV and film. The Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film recently found that women made up just 7 percent of directors on the topgrossing 250 films, 18 percent of directors on independent narrative features, and 29 percent of directors working on documentaries. On screen, women fare just a little better, represent only 33.5 percent of speaking characters in films, according to the Annenberg School at USC. We don’t just bemoan those statistics; we’re doing something about them. We’ve created a $5 million fund that will provide grants to support film and theater projects by, for and about women, for starters. When we learned that women filmmakers need help with pitching and bankrolling their projects, we offered pitch workshops and a film financing conference connecting these artists with real film financiers. We’ve also created an inspiring block of programming on Channel 25, a TV station the City owns, and we operate. At the Office of Media & Entertainment, we still serve the film and TV industries. Production is booming in New York, which has become the episodic TV capital of the world, which is great for our City since it brings steady, well-paying work. All told, filmed entertainment provides 130,000 jobs for New Yorkers, and it is helping many of our small businesses. We’ve just greatly expanded our mission. Stay tuned! I know I can’t wait for the next season! • JUNE/JULY 2017 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 111
Beth and Baruch
15 MINUTES WITH BETH LEAVEL By Baruch Shemtov eth Leavel has been entertaining Broadway audiences for over three decades, performing in a long list of shows including 42nd Street, Crazy For You, Show Boat, Mamma Mia!, and The Drowsy Chaperone, for which she won a Tony Award for her role as Beatrice Stockwell. Now she’s bringing her extensive experience back to the Great White Way as Mrs. June Adams in the Broadway musical, Bandstand. The show features a group of World War II vets performing in a band, with Mrs. Adams’s daughter Julia as the singer. And night after night, Leavel fills her role with the joy and sense of humor that have fueled her enduring status as a Broadway star. Take me back to your first night on Broadway. What went through your mind? It was 42nd Street in 1985! Anytime Annie! I joined the Broadway show after eight months on the road. I was so focused on assimilating into the new company seamlessly that it hit me (coming out in my big yellow dress for the “Dames” number) that I was on Broadway! I quietly cried and then ran to my next quick change. Joy. How does it feel to be part of the first cast to perform this show? Does it feel like you’ve been given a blank slate? It is a rare privilege to originate a role in an original Broadway show. You give birth to the part along with your creative team. The template is made for what June Adams should bring to the storytelling arc, but then you get to put your DNA all over her.
BETH’S NEW YORK FAVORITES A Coffee? My living room in the morning! Nothing like it. A gift? Domus on 44th Street between 9th and 10th Avenues. Unique, beautiful and singular gifts from around the world. And the owners are fabulous and love the Broadway community! Yeah, Nicky and Louise! Dinner? So many choices! Right off the top—Becco. Delicious! And ditto Thalia’s!
Do you feel like you’ve defined the character for future actors? Absolutely! They are stuck with my jokes! I’m sure there will be a variation on a theme but I, we, have created and defined June’s purpose in the show.
Some time alone? Usually my dressing room (or my midtown office, as I like to call it!). But I’ll venture up to World Wide Plaza, and I love to walk all the way to the River near Circle Line Tours and just watch the water.
How have audiences responded to the show? Why do you think it resonates with them? They are at the edge of their seats! Processing, listening, laughing, feeling. We feel them. They are our scene partners. And then they stand and scream with joy and thanks!
A celebration? A very small, fabulous restaurant in Inwood called Anchor Heights!
What is your pre-show ritual? Each show is different. But, with Bandstand, I try to arrive early and take my time prepping my hair for my wig, putting on makeup, connecting with other cast members and crew, feeding my fish Paprika. And then, once I’m in costume, I listen quietly in the dark stage left to the opening sounds of the opening number. Eyes closed. Then I’m ready. • 112 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2017
Baruch Shemtov is a New York-based television reporter. A graduate of Harvard College, Baruch has interviewed a long list of leaders and stars including Senator John McCain, Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Tom Cruise, Ryan Seacrest, Yo-Yo Ma, and many more. Baruch grew up in the City and is passionate about everything the Big Apple has to offer. Visit Baruch Shemtov at baruch.tv.
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