Vol. 4 #5 | June/July 2018
ETHAN SLATER ON LIFE, ACTING &
SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS JERSEY SHORE SPECIAL Wild About The Wildwoods
FATHER’S DAY Pamper Dad On His Day
TRAVEL Great Getaways Near & Far
SUMMER IN THE CITY What To See & Do
Rule The Court.
ROCK THE HOUSE. World TeamTennis Returns.
GENIE BOUCHARD JOHN ISNER MARDY FISH COACH GIGI FERNANDEZ
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2018 SEASON SUNDAY
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July 18
July 20
July 23
July 25
July 26
AUGUST 2
5:00pm Family Fun Night Featuring live entertainment, games, and face painting FRANCHISE PLAYER: John Isner
7:00pm Empower Her Honoring women who inspire with Billie Jean King and the Women’s Sports Foundation
7:00pm Play for Puerto Rico Join coach Gigi Fernandez in raising funds for her native Puerto Rico
7:00pm Unity in the Community A salute to public service people FRANCHISE PLAYER: Mardy Fish
7:00pm International Night Showcasing international food, beverages, and the multi-cultural fabric of Queens FRANCHISE PLAYER: Mardy Fish
7:00pm Volleys Against Violence Rally together with your high school. $10 tickets, on-court contest and giveaways FRANCHISE PLAYERS: Genie Bouchard Mardy Fish
7:00pm Fan Appreciation Night Promoting the NY Empire with promotional giveaways for the first 250 patrons
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Contents
19
FEATURES 16 19 62 69
From The Publisher Cover Feature: Ethan Slater of SpongeBob SquarePants Through The Lens With Annie Watt Tech Talk: Summertime And The Living Is Easy
FASHION & BEAUTY 24 2018 Fashion Trends 27 Meet Hiro Haraguchi 30 Beauty And The Beach
TRAVEL 33 39 45 48 51 54 56 58 60
Wild About The Wildwoods Saratoga Springs: A Small City With A Big City Feel Hudson Valley Escapes Gold Rush: California’s Winning Resorts Grenada: Spice, Beauty & Great Vibes From Paris With Love The Cool Mediterranean Tokyo: Serene Days, Electric Nights The Silver Muse: Sailing The Seas In Style
27
33
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 71 73 76 78 80 82 84 86
Notes From DB 207 West 79th Street 101 West 78th Street EVGB: East Village’s Greatest Building The d’Orsay Around Town: Greenwich Village Spotlight: Dolly Lenz Designing Ways
10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
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Contents
89
94
MONEY MATTERS 88 Investment Corner: Deborah J. Hamilton 89 Audi: The Choice Is Simple
HEALTH & WELLNESS 90 Sun, Skin & Summer 93 Do You Ever Feel Guilty? 94 Pampered Pop
99
FOOD & DRINK 96 99 102 104
Restaurant Roundup: Here’s To Dad The NoMad Restaurant Rioja: Spain’s Souldful Wine Paradise Raising The Bar
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 106 On Stage 108 On The Big Screen 110 On The Small Screen
106
NEW YORK, NY 112 116 118 120
Summer In The City Entrepreneur’s Corner: Charles Smith My New York Story: Chris Massimine Time Out With... Betsy Cox
12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
112
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OUR CONTRIBUTORS LEE GABAY Lee was born and bred in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. He still resides there with his wife and daughter. He is a proud 20-year New York City public school educator who teaches high school English in Spanish Harlem. Lee is a doctor of Urban Education whose research on Juvenile Detention Education is documented in his book, I Hope I Don’t See You Tomorrow (2016). His published works about education, incarceration, basketball and sneaker culture can be found in Slam Magazine, Bleacher Report, and many other publications. In 2016 the New York Times named him A New Yorker of the Year. Lee is a NYC sports historian as well as a Knicks, Jets, Ranger and Yankee fan. Additionally, he has been to almost every U2 concert at Madison Square Garden since 1987. PETER M. KALELLIS PhD Dr. Kalellis is a licensed therapist, in private practice, treating individuals and couples whose life is affected by symptoms of anxiety, boredom, conflicts, depression, disappointment, emptiness, fear, and guilt. Gently, he introduces realistic options clients can apply to regain peace of mind, feel emotionally stable, and live a healthier and happier life. Kalellis is the author of fifteen self-help books. A survivor of the Nazi occupation in Greece, he authored two novels based on actual events he witnessed. His The Phoenix, A Love That Survived The Winds Of World War II is currently under consideration as a motion picture. ANNIE WATT N e w Yo r k L i f e s t y l e s Magazine’s intrepid chief photographer possesses talent, energy, and a capacity for capturing the perfect image. Annie’s passion for the arts and impressive academics, won her a fouryear full tuition scholarship at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan and the opportunity to study with such notable artists as Chuck Close and Milton Glazer. She continued her education and received a teaching certification from Hunter College and pursued a Masters in Art History at Alfred University in Scotland. One of Annie’s biggest assets as a photographer is that her client’s trust her to present them in the most flattering light. Her photography style has an emphasis on capturing candid photos besides the posed shots. But it’s her personal instructions which create flattering photos and has garnered her the reputation as the Posing Expert. Annie’s personal success in a competitive business has given her the greatest challenge: the creation of a new photo agency to serve the needs of the industry and the media. For more information on Annie Watt, visit anniewatt.com. 14 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Vol. 4 #5 | June/July 2018 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole
Art Director Eric Duncan
Entertainment Editors Jenny Peters, Lori Simmons Zelenko
Fashion/Beauty Editor Ann Lawlor
Features Editors Clint Brownfield, Ruth J. Katz
Lifestyle Editor Griffin Miller
Real Estate Editor Daniel J. Bollinger
Special Projects Editor Norah Bradford
Chief Photographer Annie Watt Contributing Writers Michael Alpiner, Natasha Bazika, Lee Gabay Jenna Guarneri, TJ Johnson, Dr. Peter Kalellis Gretchen Kelly, Chris Massamine,Jeremy Murphy Ellis Nassour, Ted Owen, Darren Paltrowitz, David Porter Anne Raso, Mike & Nava Raviv, Diana Roberts,Michael Stoler Jeff & Stephanie Sylva, Laurie Bain Wilson, Stacey Zable Executive Vice President of Sales LYLE SELTZER 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 Director of Operations Kurt Nesheim
Advertising BLUE VISTA 725
Internet Presence Scott Cuollo, Richard Austin
Magazine Distribution The Garrido Group
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 10 times annually. © 2018 New York Lifestyles Magazine
Cover Photo Credit:
Annie Watt / AnnieWatt.com
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
Check us out on the web!
ummer is here and it’s time to make some happy memories! Whether those lazy days of summer are spent on the beach or cooling off in the rural mountains, those hot days and cool nights are one of those yearly
rituals we’ve all experienced—and yearn to repeat again and again. Nothing sounds more delicious than a barbecue with family and friends. Just the scent alone of grilled burgers and hot dogs ignites the senses. And there’s
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nothing better than a stroll in a city park enjoying an ice cream cone sprinkled
Vol. 4 #2 | March 2018
with a rainbow of colors on a steamy day. The sights of sidewalk chalk designs by young creative hearts makes me smile. Endless hours in the pool, bike riding on the boardwalk and, of course, thrilling fireworks displays and playing with sparklers never gets old. Neither does trying to avoid the seagulls who swoop in for a quick snack now and again! One thing I imagine everyone can relate to is an
Lea
Salonga
evening with family and friends sitting around a bonfire making S’mores. Yes, this
on
Theater, Song & Family
is summertime at its best. While you’re relaxing poolside reading this double-issue, don’t miss our Pet Lifestyles on the flip side of this issue. We have an exclusive cover story with the fabulous Bernadette Peters and Broadway Barks. There are celebrity spotlights with Lin Manuel Miranda, Bebe Neuwirth, Gloria Estefan, and Lisa Vanderpump with their pets. And be sure to take a look at the fun, engaging, and relevant articles
HI-TECH
THE LATEST FOR YOU & HOME
TRAVEL
IRELAND AT ITS BEST
REAL ESTATE BEST BUYS IN TOWN
FASHION
MUST-HAVE STYLES
DINING
ASIAN CUISINE WITH FLAIR
ranging from DIY grooming to treats and etiquette. Beth Stern and the North Shore Animal League have joined our team and will be contributing her feature in each issue. If you’re headed to the Hamptons this summer, look for our guide to the best pet-friendly restaurants. And if you have some free time on June 9th or 10th visit the World Dog Expo in the Meadowlands Exposition Center; it will be a fun weekend for all and don’t forget your pet. Lastly, having a wonderful Dad—who has always been there for me—and being a Dad myself, I wish you all a Happy Father’s Day. Go out this summer and make some wonderful memories!
-Bill Mason
Publisher
16 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Visit us at: newyorklifestylesmagazine.com
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August 1-18
FEATURES Lilli Cooper as Sandy Cheeks and Ethan Slater as SpongeBob SquarePants ©Joan Marcus
By Ellis Nassour
n 2008, Ethan Slater was a junior at Vassar, studying theater. For a possible summer job, he auditioned for Benvollo in Romeo and Juliet. He got the part. However, the casting director asked him to audition for an untitled project director Tina Landau was developing. It was the musical she conceived based on marine biologist and animator Stephen Hillenburg’s Nickelodeon network’s TV series and film SpongeBob SquarePants. As is often the case in theater, the project had been in development for 10 years. “It took Tina, a firm believer that the TV comic romp could be a stage musical, three and a half years to convince Nickelodeon her vision was specific and something new and innovative,” Ethan reports, “It’s been beautifully realized with a crack creative team.” But, even into its fourth year and with a backer’s workshop on the horizon, the director still hadn’t found her SpongeBob. Ethan came in and wowed Ms. Landau. He got the title role and dropped out of Romeo and Juliet before rehearsals began. After an initial engagement to test the waters in Chicago, the show is heating up Broadway and nominated for Best Musical—and Ethan is looking at a Tony nomination for Best Actor in a Musical. He’s also a recipient of a Theatre World Award for Outstanding Broadway Debut, and just won the Outer Critics’ Award for Best Actor in a Musical. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19
Audience reactions change the way the show progresses. Matinee audiences are different from evening audiences.” 20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
©AnnieWatt.com
The Company of SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS ©Joan Marcus
In rehearsals, he was taught juggling and acrobatics by circus performers, even worked with a contortionist for six months. A BOLD CHOICE
In an understatement, Ethan says, “My life changed overnight! I owe Tina the world! I went in blind. Tina took a chance on this square-looking kid. She didn’t know if I could do physical comedy, act, sing, or dance! I had a two-page scene and had to come up with physical comedy. I was too nervous to do SpongeBob’s voice. I choose to put on this sweater, but it was rebelling against me. I threw it up and dived through it. I laughed the way I laugh. It was a bold choice.” One that paid off handsomely. Ms. Landau saw he was trying to connect with the character. He was asked to return two days later, and expected to do the character’s unique vocal styling. Ethan did a routine to Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean.” He termed what he did as “goofy dance. It’s passionate, something you care about.” “What Ethan did worked,” says Ms. Landau. “I realized, pure and simple, he’s a joy generator. He embodies what is most essential about SpongeBob: His optimism—along with his sense of wonder and play. As we workshopped the show over years, it was Ethan’s instincts—his tastes, off-kilter humor, physicality, devilish glee, and his whole inner spirit—that most shaped this role and, in fact, shaped how I imagined the whole production. He was my constant inspiration and guide. He just knew, and just is SpongeBob.”
THE YOUNGER YEARS
Ethan Slater grew up in Washington DC, attended top-rated Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, Maryland and Georgetown Day (High) School, where he got to play Mozart in Amadeus. He attended Vassar, which wasn’t on his list of colleges. “My father visited there with my sister and said I’d love it. I was like, ‘Dad, I don’t know.’ He said, ‘Just apply.’ Did I have a choice? When I was accepted and visited, it absolutely became my first choice. I saw people passionate about what they were studying, whether it was political science or drama. I was drawn to theater that took risks, and you could fail.” He performed in and saw productions that were incredibly daring, such as Marc Blitzstein’s classic musical The Craddle Will Rock, which he did freshman year, or weird, such as Woyzeck (by German playwright Georg Bücher), “which was pure sensory overload. Later, I got to see a professional production, but the one at Vassar took way more risks.” In the show, Ethan is high-energy and often taking risks. He says a lot of his physicality comes from the fact that he was a wrestler in high school. “To my father’s credit, when I started wrestling, he said, ‘You really should take ballet.’ Not something you hear from every father.” He’s been taking dance for the last three years. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 21
LEARNING THE ROPES
Ethan’s come to think of SpongeBob SquarePants as SpongeBob University, “because of what I had to learn.” In rehearsals, he was taught juggling and acrobatics by circus performers, even worked with a contortionist for six months. He’s been a part of SpongeBob for six years. Needless to say, there’s a lot of audience anticipation. A great majority come into the Palace Theatre expecting to see a giant foam cut-out of SpongeBob.” There’s no huge yellow sponge. It’s just Ethan being quirky and sounding like SpongeBob. However, true to the original, he lives in a pineapple, loves his pet snail who meows like a cat, and works as a fry cook at the Krusty Krab. “It’s not a blank stage where you have to imagine the story,” he explains, “or a long time to understand what you’re seeing. It was crucial to Tina for the set to have a do-it-yourself vibe as opposed to typical Broadway.” The design is made up of objects supposedly found on the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.
I owe Tina [Landau] the world! I went in blind. Tina took a chance on this square-looking kid.
Ethan Slater with Tina Landau
STAYING IN-SHAPE
In one of Ethan’s big Act Two moments, he has to climb and weave in and out of a massive, moving monkey bar set to climb into a volcano about to erupt. Truly amazing! In the two-and-a-half hour musical, he’s only off stage seven minutes. “Being in a juggernaut such as SpongeBob SquarePants,” Ethan states, “it’s not hard to stay focused. From the second it starts, you’re going, going, going. There’re certain moments when it’s tough, but I don’t have time to think about anything but the job.”
Ethan Slater as SpongeBob SquarePants ©Joan Marcus
22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
To cope, he’s literally had to change his life. His diet forbids the comfort food he loves best: pizza. In its place are gluten-free bread and pasta (and not because he’s gluten-intolerant), dairy, tomatoes, pork, shellfish. Alcohol is taboo. He’s in the gym and dance classes six days a week. Before each performance, he does vocal warm-ups and a 90-minute workout onstage “to get my heart rate pumping.” Exercise includes light tumbling, intimidating fat-blasting workouts, and dynamic stretching.
Danny Skinner as Patrick Star, Ethan Slater as SpongeBob SquarePants and Lilli Cooper as Sandy Cheeks ©Joan Marcus
A MUSICAL WITH PEDIGREE SpongeBob SquarePants is the recipient of twelve 2018 Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical, Book, Score, Director, Choreography, Actor Ethan Slater, Featured Actor Gavin Lee, and Sets and Costumes.
ON STAGE
One of his joys is when he’s onstage but not part of a production number and gets “to witness firsthand the incredible talents of Gavin Lee, Lily Cooper, Danny Skinner, and Wesley Taylor.” There’s chemistry and friendship among his co-stars. Audience response has an effect on the show, too. “It’s rare when we don’t do the same show twice,” says Ethan. “Audience reactions change the way the show progresses. Matinee audiences are different from evening audiences. Then, there’re some people who want to sing along to our finale number, ‘Best Day Ever.’ Normally actors don’t like to have audience participation, but when the SpongeBob fans join in we love it!”
Conceived and directed by Tina Landau; Choreographed by Christopher Gattelli (also Tony-nominated for My Fair Lady); Sets and costumes by Tony winner David Zinn; Book by Kyle Jarrow; based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg,
Ethan has done some Off Broadway, such as last year’s “bad-ass” Baghdaddy, the NY Times Critic’s Pick musical by Marshall Pailet and A.D. Penedo, but nothing prepared him for his Broadway experience. With the Tony Award nominations and the acclaim for his performance, has it been hard to adjust? “I haven’t changed, which is good. Of course, it’s difficult to take it all in, but I am blessed that I have Tina and the cast to help me take this craziness in stride.”
The score is by five-time Grammy winner Yolanda Adams; four-time Grammy winners Aerosmith (Steven Tyler/Joe Perry) ; Tony nominee Sara Bareilles (Waitress); Rob Hyman; three-time Grammy winners Flaming Lips; Grammy winners Lady Antebellum; Tony, Grammy, and Emmy winner Cyndi Lauper (Kinky Boots); Oscar, Golden Globe, and 10-time Grammy winner John Legend; Magnetic Zeros; Grammy nominee Panic!At the Disco;, Plain White T’s; They Might Be Giants; T.I.; Domani and Lil’ C; six-time Grammy winner David Bowie; Brian Eno; and Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional music and lyrics are by Pulitzer Prize and Tony winner Tom Kitt and Jonathan Coulton.
He’s very supportive of the production’s effort to get families in the seats. “Sharing theater with family is important. It’s not a kid’s show where we play to the lowest common denominator. This was very important to Tina, and she’s handled it masterfully. It’s a very smooth show, and Tina guided us through some murky waters. There are a lot of first-time theatergoers, especially among young fans of the TV show, but overall our audience is quite eclectic. Many come in skeptical. One woman told me she was dragged by her grandkids, and was dreading the experience, but loved the show so much she’d be coming back.” “SpongeBob SquarePants,” Ethan says, “for all its screwball fun, laughter, and outrageous and colorful sets and costumes, has strong undercurrents about matters in the world dialogue, such as loyalty; the climate-change issue, where some ignore what’s right in front of them; and the scapegoating of outsiders. Best of all, playing a famous sponge has given me the role I didn’t know I was born to play.” • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 23
FASHION & BEAUTY
2018 FASHION TRENDS SUMMER IS HERE! By Ann Lawlor
ith Summer solstice upon us with garden soirees and beach vacations in full-force, it’s time to update your wardrobe. So, just in case you are hunting for that certain stylish piece, here are some of my picks for the season inspired by the luxurious runways of this fun season. ALEX AND ANI
MORNING LAVENDER
BEHNO
Paper Hearts Charm Bangle The Paper Hearts bangle set is symbolic of eternal bonds, desire, and spiritual aspirations. It is life. It is love. It is our emotional center. Info: $118; alexandani.com.
Laurie Navy Stripe Button Maxi This striped dress is classic and chic! The lightweight feel is perfect for warm, sunny days. The delicate self-tie ribbon belt is perfect! Info: $60.99; morninglavender.com.
Hannah Tote The perfect tote that fits all your necessities: Great for work, travel, shopping—it’s timeless. Info: $625; behno.com.
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Metallic Palm Slide Sandals These shining, palm-tree embellished slides will have you daydreaming of basking in the shade of their lush leaves. Info: $118; anthropologie.com.
Pink Silk Scarf Etro brings its signature folkoric aesthetic to this vibrantly printed scarf with fringe trim. Crafted in Italy of lightweight silk, the rectangular style has a versatile shape that offers multiple styling possibilities. Info: $338; mytheresa.com. •
24 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
FASHION & BEAUTY
MEET HIRO HARAGUCHI NYC’S HAIR DOCTOR By Lori Simmons Zelenko
iro Haraguchi feels New Yorkers have little time to spare for hair care. What they want is quick, easy great looks. But for this long-time creative stylist finding that right cut is a journey. “Finding the right prescription for each client takes concentration. I ask questions, learn about their lifestyle, how they feel about their hair and their self-image, all these elements come into consideration before I begin to cut their hair.” Each haircut from Hiro is customized, personalized with great thought from this truly masterful artist whose elegant, minimal approach works wonders. “Whether they are artists or business leaders, I design a haircut to bring out youthfulness and make them look contemporary.” Hiro does not just look at eyes, mouth and nose, he scans the whole person: “I learn, I evaluate. I ask what they don’t want. Many want a new look but are not always sure they truly want a big change, so it is up to me as a hairdresser to share my experience and guide them. Of course, some will feel they know exactly what they want, but even so, what they are insisting upon may not be the right prescription.”
Hiro Haraguchi
CREATING GOOD DESIGN Hiro is known as the Hair Doctor for his intuitive ability to diagnose every hair challenge. He corrects everything from chemically dry hair due to bad color treatments to thick, unmanageable, frizzy tresses that are just about fried from too many blow-drying sessions. He explains, “Every client presents a problem but no one has the same problem. Every challenge equals an opportunity to create good design.” Hiro stays creative and ahead of the curve without being swayed but what’s in or what’s out. “Control is vital, wavy hair you do not want too messy. Straight hair can be a little messier but it shows everything. A little mistake is extremely obvious in straight hair. The key,” he says, “to a successful haircut is to adapt to each type of hair.” No one, he reminds us, has the same hair much less the same job or the same personality. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 27
SUMMER LOCKS
HOW IT ALL BEGAN Successfully merging his Far East training and philosophy with the Western variety of hair types, Hiro is known for his unique blend of “international chic.” In Japan, he spent over nine years studying, perfecting, and improving his technique which made him one of the fashion world’s most soughtafter hairstylists. Over his extensive career he’s worked with the best including Suga, the famed hairdresser of the 1980s whose clients included Candice Bergen, Lauren Hutton, Faye Dunaway; designer Hanae Mori; Oribe, one of the first American hairstylists to style the European collections whose collaboration with photographer Steven Meisel and makeup artist Francois Nars built the supermodel concept, as in Christy, Linda and Naomi; and Garren where he styled for fashion show luminaries like Marc Jacobs and Anna Sui. Now at the vibrant new location at Privé Salon by Laurent D. within the iconic Sherry Netherland Hotel, Hiro is an exceptional addition to the Central Park-adjacent salon that speaks to a modern, unique aesthetic beloved by such celebrities as Johnny Depp, Gwyneth Paltrow, Uma Thurman, Tina Fey and Jewel. For more information on Hiro at Prive by Laurent D., visit privebylaurentd.com. •
Here, some expert tips from Hiro on Summertime styles. • Natural is best for Summer hair. Wavy, loose and soft looking. • Short hair needs to be shaggy. • Layers work. But keep the ends clean. Ragged ends lead to frizz. Go for movement. Let each layer flow into the next naturally. • Style hair so that it lays behind the ears; it’s a fresh look for the season. Show off your suntanned face. • Avoid too much body. Keep the hair easy and fresh. • Beachy waves are definitely in for Summer 2018. But not too tight. Again the key is to have a relaxed, natural look. • At the beach, go for a wet look. Try Milbon Wet Shine Gel Cream to get this effect. This game-changing hybrid tames frizz and flyaways while adding buildable hold for both polished and extreme wet looks. Its slowdry technology gives precision styling the time it needs. • Maintaining your style postsalon visit should not be a struggle. Hiro champions the products from Privé (priveproducts.com) favored by the salon’s celebrity patrons who’ve been clients of Laurent D. over the years as well as the number 1 Japanese professional line Milbon (milbon-usa.com) which even offers a specific antiaging formula.
THE ART OF SHAMPOO Improper shampoo techniques create damage and dry hair. Be gentle. Use a wide tooth comb but don’t pull it through the hair. Use conditioner from the ends to the middle. Rinse thoroughly. And never scrunch hair. When blowing out, brush from the ends. Finish with cool air to help control frizz. Be careful not to use such high heat that you burn the hair strands. Remember dry hair starts at the ends, so keep them trimmed to avoid breakage. And make it a point to deep condition often especially as Summer heat and humidity kicks in. 28 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
FASHION & BEAUTY
BEAUTY & THE BEACH By Norah Bradford
un, Sea, and Sand. It all feels so wonderful but certainly requires you to be prepared to enjoy this summer season. We have gathered some of the best essentials to pack in your beach bag. Now you’re all set for summer! COLORSCIENCE
BECCA
Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50 For those unexpected invitations to an after-beach party, look your very best with the new ColorScience Sunforgettable product. Powered by EnviroScreen Technology, this all-powerful allmineral skin shield provides total protection in one convenient, on-the-go application. Info: colorscience.com.
Candy Sugar Pop Earthy Vanilla and fresh, green Mahonial combine to create this addictive scent with hints of Lime zest topped with Apple extract. Info: sephora.com.
TATCHA Original Aburatorigami Blotting Papers For centuries, Japanese women have used these whisper thin papers to absorb excess oils from delicate skin. What’s old is new again! Today, these soft leaflets made of 100 percent natural abaca leaf continue to do their job and leave your face with a perfect matte. A perfect way to look fresh all day! Info: tatcha.com
ANGELO DAVID Flex Brush & Detangle Spray Looking to stimulate or detangle your hair? Pack The Flex Brush and Flex Detangler Spray in your beach bag. Spray and brush can be used on both wet and dry hair. Celebrity hair stylist Angelo David has partnered with hair-tool veteran Jacob Guttman, to create these ultimate essentials—the answer for perfect summer hair. Info: flexbrush.com.
AERIN HIBISCUS PALM ROLLERBALL This convenient rollerball design is perfect for the beach bag. A quick application captures the essence of a palm-fringed tropical island with notes of Lotus Flower and Hibiscus Palm mingled with Ylang and exotic Ginger. Info: aerin.com. 30 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
SHISEIDO
KIEHL’S
HUDSON’S BAY COMPANY
Ultimate Sun Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ Of course, you want the best protection under the sun. Why not Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ for face and body? This lightweight formula becomes even more effective when exposed to water. Info: shiseido.com.
Butterstick SPF 25 Lip Treatment Don’t forget your lips! Take along Kiehl’s Butterstick SPF25 Lip Treatment which comes in five shades. Look good as well as feel protected from the damaging sun rays. Info:kiehls.com.
Classic Luxe Beach Towel Stake your claim on the beach in style with Hudson’s Bay Company beach towel to sunbathe or dry off after a quick swim. The design incorporates colorful stripes making it festive and preppy. Info: bay.com.
NIBI MTK
BLEU LAVANDE
Beach Kimono NIBI MTK specializes in East Coast surf area fashion swimwear. Founder Kristin Sheeler, a former designer and vintage buyer for Ralph Lauren, recommends this flirty, chic and versatile tie-dyed kimono. Style as a beach cover-up or layered over a tank and shorts for effortless styles. Info: nibimtk.com.
Body Milk Love your skin after the punishment of the summer with Bleu Lavande Body Milk. The hydrating elements incorporated in this rich body milk restore your skin’s natural tone and suppleness. Containing lavender essential oil and vitamins A, D, E and K, it’s a sure winner. Info: bleulavande.com.
VERA BRADLEY DITTY BAG This company’s modern twist on classic silhouettes, refreshed with added functionality never disappoints. A must this Summer is Vera Bradley’s Ditty Bag in Floral Fiesta. Don’t let the simple silhouette fool you! This bag packs a powerful punch when it comes to versatility. Use it to carry your wet swimsuit, shoes, full-sized toiletries, and other beach necessities. You get the idea. Info: verabradley.com.
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We are proud of what we have brought to the Wildwoods over the past 50 years. In that same spirit of innovation and excellence, we are pleased to introduce four new experiences. The WILD WHIZZER coaster will have families spinning wildly through a wacky summer seascape. Argh! Ya ready for a family adventure? Climb aboard a re-imagined 3D cartoon journey at PIRATES OF THE WILDWOODS. Beer, brauts, BBQ, beach... Oh yes! WILHELM’S BIER GARTEN and PIG DOG BEACH BAR BQ join our great collection of drink and dining establishments. WILDWOOD NJ • MOREYSPIERS.COM • 609-522-3900
TRAVEL
WILD ABOUT THE WILDWOODS By Cecilia Ruane
orey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks is about to celebrate a milestone anniversary this summer. This year represents its 50th year of serving up family fun, and that is a great accomplishment they can be proud of. Morey’s success stems from smart, dedicated management and their ability to execute a business plan that meets the desires of their wide-ranging clientele. Their overriding focus is a family orientation, and this mantra trickles down to their staff. When the business first began, the principal focus was on rides. Today, the core represents an evolution to meet ever-changing consumer demands by expanding and creating a much larger scale business that appeals to the entire family. Morey’s Piers is now a conglomerate which runs waterparks, amusement parks as well as a host of restaurants and bars. They have significantly expanded their physical presence and created a destination where families feel comfortable enjoying their leisure hours while having a range of activity choices to enjoy. Morey’s Piers is now a Resort Island Destination comprised of public spaces that include large-scale art projects like the Wildwoods Sign, Fire Hydrant, and the Coaster Dog. The Wildwoods Sign, was a creation of Philadelphia architect Rich Stokes who has a keen understanding of the Wildwoods culture. The Fire Hydrant is a combined effort of Richard Stokes and the Bielings (a father and son) team from New Jersey. You may ask, what goes well with a fire hydrant and the answer, of course, is a dog. The Coaster Dog, which has a repurposed section from a previously used roller coaster track was conceived by the Bielings team and manufactured by Vekoma—a Netherlands company. The consumer is always searching for new experiences while also maintaining the comfort experiences they have enjoyed in the past so gravity, acceleration, and centrifugal force will always be mainstay components in creating the overall balance between fear and fun.
And Morey’s Piers doesn’t disappoint. It offers more than 100 rides and amusements on three piers. But that’s not all. Look for two waterparks that will thrill with slides and ride. • Mariner’s Pier features a traditional amusement park experience with Teacups and Super Scooter rides and a giant Ferris Wheel. Arrive early and treat the kids to a one of a kind thrilling experience—Breakfast in the Sky. Enjoy a white tablecloth breakfast served inside a Ferris Wheel car! • Surfside Pier provides a right mix of rides for kiddies and older children and adults. Kids will delight with the neon-lit carnival atmosphere on this pier. • Adventure Pier is, as you may have guessed, where you’ll find the genuinely extreme rides like the wooden Great White Coaster, the Grand Prix Raceway. • Raging Waters Waterpark, located behind Mariner’s Pier, is where one and all enter to be transported to the land of pirates. Here families can enjoy shipwreck-themed play areas, rope swings and plenty of waterslides. • Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club can be found behind Surfside Pier. In addition to waterslides and play areas, Ocean Oasis offers cabanas, live music, a swim-up bar and other beach club amenities.
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WHAT’S NEW THIS SEASON This year Morey’s Piers celebrates its 50th Anniversary and continues to offer family fun with some new additions and attractions to make 2018 even more memorable. Look for new rides several new restaurants serving tempting foods and drink, and even new public spaces with art installations.
AMUSEMENT RIDES • Wild Whizzer Spinning Coaster This Italian-made spinning roller coaster has vehicles shaped like personal hovercrafts which spin independently of one another. After five minutes of twists and turns and reaching new heights, you’ll want to do it all over again. Location: Mariner’s Pier. • Pirates of the Wildwoods Although not new, this ride has been re-themed and upgraded both inside and out. The 3D cartoon adventure takes visitors on a journey to discover the treasure. Location: Mariner’s Pier.
NEW PUBLIC ART ATTRACTION
Dog Sculpture for the Wildwood dog park is made from 11 pieces of old roller coaster track. 34 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
INSIDER TIPS TO MOREY’S PIERS The best way to visit the Piers and Waterparks Try Waterparks in the morning and Piers later in the day. The best tip for families with small children? Spend the day exploring both the Surfside and Mariner’s. Each has kiddie rides as well as rides for the whole family to enjoy together. For families wanting some water park fun, check out Raging Waters two special play areas. Any little-known events/activities that are hidden gems? On Surfside Pier, at the Ocean Oasis Waterpark & Beach Club, you can reserve a Private or Family Cabana. It makes for an excellent way for families to have a home base, take a break, and relax.
RESTAURANTS • Pigdog Beach Bar & BBQ The beach bar welcomes families to relax and indulge in some great burgers, barbecue, or just a cold drink on a beautiful sunny Jersey Shore day. Pigdog also affords hammocks, cargo net beds, and even a re-purposed sailboat that washed ashore last summer. The term pigdog is a surfing term describing when one takes a stance with head forward and down with the body balanced on hands and knees. Naturally, Morey’s Piers understands that dogs are part of the family and is dog-friendly! Location: Behind Raging Waters Water Park. • Wilhelm’s Bier Garten What better way to enjoy a beer and brat? Named after co-founder Will (Wilbert) Morey, who enjoyed visiting Oktoberfest annually to partake in all the festivities in Germany. While there, he took note of the German engineering in amusements rides and was so inspired that eventually some of those fun rides found their way across the Atlantic to Morey’s Piers. Now Morey’s family has honored the tradition with the opening of this new restaurant serving up German pretzels, sausages and, of course, beer, music, and more. Location: Mariner’s Pier. • The Founders Bar Located within Jumbo’s Grub & Pub, the new Founders Bar is a tribute to all the inventors, designers, and trailblazers who helped the seaside culture evolve into what it is today. Sixteen famous (and maybe infamous) notables are featured on the walls of the pub showcasing their stories and inventions. Also available, a vast selection of tap beers, many of the drinks are named after these trailblazers. By the way, don’t miss the rebranded Jumbo’s with a new chef and excellent menu. Location: Mariner’s Pier. Whether you want to spend your days (and nights) riding the best amusements under the Jersey sun or simply want to get away from it all with the family, Morey’s Piers has it all and lots more. With its endless variety of rides, attractions, and food options on the beautiful Jersey shoreline, Morey’s Piers makes for a perfect boardwalk getaway. For more information on Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks, visit moreyspiers.com.
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WHERE TO STAY PAN AMERICAN HOTEL Just an hour south of Atlantic City, you’ll find the Wildwoods, a beautiful cluster of five towns set on a barrier island just off New Jersey’s southernmost point. The area is more subdued than Atlantic City, where families find a dizzying assortment of fun along the Wildwoods Boardwalk. There are plenty of B&Bs and resorts, but a stay at Pan American is par excellence. Of course, there are the usual amenities, but it’s the staff that makes the difference. Service is utmost and is practiced every day right to the top. General manager, Jim Kelly, knows what it takes to operate a top-quality organization. After three decades at Pan American, he ought to know. “It’s all about being treated like family” which he instills in each member of his staff from kitchen to reception. A good reason, families return to this sunny gem year after year; it’s that intoxicating.
Since Pan American is nestled on the beach, those who want to soak up the rays have several options. Head to the beach for the day or relax in a chaise lounge by the swimming pool (there’s a connecting kiddie pool). Also, an elevated sun deck overlooks the pool and offers even more amazing views of the beach and sparkling ocean waters. The Pan American Hotel caters to families where’s there’s plenty do especially for children. While adults relax on the beach or poolside, a social director can lead kids on supervised activities (in season). There’s also beach volleyball, watersports, golf, and tennis. For more information on Pan American Hotel, visit moreyspiers. com/hotels/pan-american. PORT ROYAL HOTEL Chill or Thrill! Mild or Wild! In the Wildwoods, you can do as much—or as little—as you like. There are miles of white sand beaches and 38 blocks of boardwalk fun. Everything you could ever dream in a family vacation is right here in the Wildwoods. A stay The Port Royal Hotel, situated on the beach, offers guest rooms and suites catering to families looking to spend an enjoyable vacation at the Jersey Shore. The rooms range from Standard to Deluxe Ocean Suite which includes two bedrooms and a living area comfortably sleeping up to six. All rooms feature flat screen TV’s, refrigerators and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests also enjoy the outdoor pool, kiddie pool, patio, snack store, game room, and a popular ‘50s-style restaurant. As general manager, John Way maintains whatever you are looking for in a vacation experience you will find it here in the Wildwoods at the Port Royal where attentive service is always number one. With glorious beaches, fireworks and live music the Jersey Shore is the place to be. For more information on Port Royal Hotel, visit moreyspiers.com/ hotels/port-royal. •
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beautiful beachfront luxury
Set sail for adventure at the Port Royal and make luxuriously appointed accommodations your port of call on the Jersey Shore. Soak up some sun and salty sea air with your First Mate from a private balcony with spectacular views of the sparkling Atlantic Ocean. On the Beach at Palm Road • 6801 Ocean Avenue • Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 PortRoyalHotel.com 609/729-2000 A MOREY RESORT
The perfect hotel to create exceptional experiences for your meeting, wedding or travel needs! Enjoy European elegance in the heart of Saratoga Springs and footsteps from the best shopping, sightseeing and destination amenities that only Saratoga and Pavilion Grand Hotel can offer...
an experience like no other!
BLUE PEACOCK BISTRO • De‘lite’ful Breakfast and Espresso • Assorted Lunch Paninis and Fare • Artisan Cheese Platters and Exotic Meats • Wine by the Glass or Bottle MAKE ME FABULOUS SALON & SPA • Nationally Recognized Makeup and Hair Stylists • Event Styling and Bridal Services • Lashes, Waxing, Color and Cuts • Massage Therapies and Body Treatments FISH AT 30 LAKE RESTAURANT • Seasonal Day-Boat Fish • Raw Bar • Hand Crafted Cocktails & Happy Hour • Private Events and Roof Top Catering
DURING YOUR STAY COME AND EXPLORE
The
Businesses of Pavilion Square ALL CONVENIENTLY LOCATED ON SITE
30 LAKE AVENUE, SARATOGA SPRINGS, NEW YORK 12866 • (518) 583-2727 WWW.PAVILIONGRANDHOTEL.COM ASK FOR “NY LIFESTYLE MAG” PROMO WHEN YOU BOOK!
TRAVEL
SARATOGA SPRINGS
THE SMALL CITY WITH A BIG CITY FEEL By Lyle Seltzer
ocated just over a three hour drive from New York City is the historic town of Saratoga Springs. In the early days, Saratoga was a legendary site to native Americans who revered the healing powers of its mineral springs – one of the few naturally carbonated springs in the United States. For history lovers, it was the site of key battles during the Revolutionary War and is also known for it’s Victorian architecture. Over the years Saratoga became a place for the well-to-do to go for an escape from New York City and enjoy the restorative waters, the fresh mountain air and gambling. While it is true that in the Summer Saratoga becomes the center of the horse racing universe, there is so much more that draws visitors to Saratoga from around the world. There are plenty of other activities to partake in, including the arts, festivals, shopping, outdoor sports, dining and family attractions. THE FINEST HORSE RACING
No stay during the summer is complete without a trip to the Saratoga Race Course, the country’s oldest and most beautiful Thoroughbred race track. It is a great place to get up early and watch the horses train while enjoying breakfast at the track. You will enjoy the sights and sounds of the best the sport of horse racing has to offer. The historic Saratoga Race Course will host World-Class Thoroughbred racing with a meet beginning Friday, July 20th through Labor Day September 3rd. There will be racing six days a week featuring top horses in the country ridden by the best jockeys in the world competing for large purses. The meet will feature numerous stakes races and the highlight of the summer will be on Saturday, August 25th with the running of the Travers Stakes nicknamed “Saratoga’s Midsummer Derby” the Grade 1, $1,250,000 race for 3-year olds which draws crowds upwards of 50,000 people. This year’s top 3-year old, Justify will be trying to complete the Triple Crown in the upcoming Belmont Stakes and there is a good possibility Justify will race in the Travers Stakes. If he wins the Triple Crown and comes to race at Saratoga, you can expect even bigger crowds. Saratoga doesn’t just have thoroughbred racing, it is also home to live harness racing at the Saratoga Casino and Raceway which is one of the most beautiful half-mile tracks in the country. While viewing the harness racing enjoy a nice meal from amongst a number of dining options. You can also try your luck at the gaming facility with over 1700 slots or enjoy the nightlife at Vapor nightclub one of the hottest nightclubs in the Capital Region. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 39
GISELLE ©Carlos Quezada
SPAC FEATURED PERFORMANCES
Opened over 50 years ago on July 9, 1966 with a presentation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by the NYC Ballet, The Saratoga Performing Arts Center(SPAC) is a large amphitheater on the grounds of Saratoga State Park presenting summer performances of classical music, jazz, pop and rock, country, comedy, dance and opera as well as a Wine and Food Festival. Highlights of the current season include: The National Ballet of China Internationally renowned as one of the premier ballet institutions in the world making it’s making the first appearance at SPAC as just one of four locations on it’s tour. Known for it’s exuberant flair and historically informed style that are uniquely Cuban, National Ballet of Cuba will have three performances of Alicia Alonso’s Giselle on June 6th, 7th and 8th. 41st Annual Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival Featuring an extraordinary roster of artists, ranging from Jazz luminaries Jon Batiste, Chris Botti, Herbie Hancock, Gregory Porter, Joey Alexander and Gospel and R&B legend Mavis Staples along with emerging artists making their Saratoga debuts such as Lekecia Benjamin and SoulSquad and Scott Sharrard & The Brickyard Band. The Jazz Festival takes place Saturday, June 23rd and Sunday, June 24th. NYC Ballet Taking residency from July 17th through 21st and featuring four distinct programs including Shakespeare’s timeless Romeo & Juliet. Philadelphia Orchestra Three week residency from August 1st through August 18th showcasing two weeks under the baton of Yannick NézetSéguin who holds dual roles as Music Director of The Philadelphia Orchestra and Music Orchestra Designate of the Metropolitan Opera. SPAC On Stage Series Showcasing acclaimed ensembles whose artistry crosses both Classical and Contemporary genres. Featuring a unique seating arrangement that transforms the SPAC amphitheater into an intimate concert experience where the audience is placed onstage with the artists looking out into the theater. Takes place four Mondays in August(6th, 13th, 20th and 27th).
SPAC lawn seating ©Chris Lee
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CULINARY EXPERIENCES
There are plenty of restaurants in downtown Saratoga (most within walking distance) for both indoor and outdoor dining to please any taste bud desires you may have ranging from Italian to French to Japanese to Seafood. You can also find casual bar food including salads, burgers, chicken wings and pizza at a number of different venues. Some of the top establishments are noted below. 15 Church A beautifully restored historic building located in the heart of Saratoga. The restaurant is a collaboration between Thomas Burke and Paul McCullough and serves the best USDA Prime aged beef and seafood flown in daily in a comfortable yet elegant dining room. Fish at 30 Lake Within and next to the Pavilion Grand Hotel is an ocean to table restaurant called Fish at 30 Lake, opened in June of 2016. Fish at 30 Lake prides itself on seasonality and locality. Day boat caught seafood is brought in daily to downtown, Saratoga Springs. Fish at 30 Lake offers fresh seafood, a free standing raw bar, “no gills” section for non-fish lovers, pastas, salads as well as a full bar and seasonal outside seating. Serving dinner 7 days a week, happy hour daily and live music. From the ocean to your table in downtown Saratoga Springs! Fish at 30 Lake is also available for rooftop catering for events! Info: fishat30lake.com.
Pavilion Grand Hotel
SPECIAL HOTEL EXPERIENCES
Pavilion Grand Hotel A modern elegant hotel located in downtown Saratoga Springs just steps from Broadway offering 48 luxury suites with apartment style space including many suites with terraces, walk-in-closets and more. The suites come in all sizes to fit a wide range of tastes. The “Signature Studio” is the smallest in size at 600 square feet followed by “The Grand One Bedroom Suite” measuring 940 square feet featuring a separate bedroom. Offering 9 suite types, Pavilion Grand Hotel also offers the most unique suites in the region with their “The Penthouse Loft Suites”, a high end luxury apartment style space stretched over two floors, boasting 1800-2300 square feet of indoor living space with up to 1000 sq. ft. of landscaped rooftop garden or private walkout terrace featuring outdoor furniture, plants, and sweeping views of Saratoga Springs. All of the suites have 9 foot ceilings with crown molding and feature fully-equipped gourmet style kitchens, luxury linens, bathrobes complete, in suite safes and everything you need to feel completely at home . Beautiful amenities of the hotel are coupled with the business of Pavilion Square located right on site including; Fish at 30 Lake Restaurant, Make Me fabulous Salon and Spa(with nationally recognized owner, hair stylist and make-up artist) and Blue Peacock Bistro, all independent businesses to make your stay exceptional. Meetings or receptions can be enjoyed in Pavilion Grand’s rooftop and event space offering landscaped terraces and fire pit for guests to enjoy. Info: paviliongrandhotel.com
Fish at 30 Lake
The Adelphi Hotel ©Greg Ceo
The Adelphi Hotel A historic boutique hotel with 32 rooms centrally located in the heart of downtown Saratoga right on Broadway. The hotel offers a selection of rooms ranging from a Premiere King(350 sq. ft.) to the Premiere Broadway King(450 sq. ft.) with a four-post king bed and five-fixture bathrooms. All rooms feature beautiful hardwood floors, custom designed furnishings and antiques from the Adelphi’s history. The hotel is famous for “The Adelphi Perfect Night Bed” which allows for a comfortable night’s sleep so you wake up raring to go the next morning. Inroom amenities include custom designed throws, lush robes, slippers, complimentary mini-bar, and a Nespresso machine. The hotel is centered around vibrant contemporary dining and The Blue Hen Restaurant is where chefs create daily dishes from fresh local ingredients and the staff is known for their impeccable service. Morrissey’s Lounge is couched within The Adelphi and is known as a place where good friends come to hang out for good conversation, great drinks (local beer, craft cocktails and a top-notch wine list) while dining on small plates and shareable dishes. Morrissey’s has a little bit of history, having been named after John Morrissey – a prizefighter, gangster, entrepreneur and congressman who was credited for bringing racing to Saratoga by personally organizing and financing the town’s first thoroughbred contest in 1863. Info: • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41
Georgian Lakeside Resort
Marine Village Resort
Sun Castle Resort
Located in the heart of Lake George Village, this full service resort offers accommodations, dining, and event hosting. With short walks to everything, The Georgian has a beautiful lakeside location with 157 rooms and suites. The resort has a lakefront pool, patio and Cabana Bar. Dining is offered at Giovanna’s on the Lake with entertainment in the Terrace Room overlooking the lake. Georgian guests enjoy free concerts, lake cruises as well as Six Flags Great Escape theme park.
Family resort located in the center of Lake George that features a 300-foot beach to relax and play. Docks are available for guest boats or boat rentals. Relax with family and friends on the large patio and pool area. The Morgan Restaurant serves made to order breakfasts daily and grills are available throughout the property for guest use. Perfect choice for those who prefer a location with a short walk to the village while offering a host of resort activities.
The resort spans 15 acres of luxurious lakefront property and outdoor activities abound with 2 beaches, a heated outdoor pool, 2 children’s playground areas. Modern townhomes offer 2-bedroom, 2.5 baths with full kitchens, dining area and living room and two bedroom villas offer outstanding lake views from the living room as well as private balconies overlooking beautiful Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains. Guests have dining privileges at The Inn at Erlowest, the only AAA 4 Diamond Restaurant in the region located on the same property.
384 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-525-3436 / 1-800-LAKE-GEORGE georgianresort.com
370 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-727-7090 / 1-518-668-5478 marinevillageresort.com
3178 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-518-668-2085 Suncastleresort.com
Scotty’s Lakeside Resort
The Lodges at Cresthaven
The Quarters at Lake George
Newly rejuvenated and located on 7 expansive acres in Lake George Village and 350 ft. of beautiful shoreline, the resort is a place for fun with friends and family. Enjoy the large sandy beach or the beachside pool. Canoe, paddleboat, an interactive arcade, beach volleyball, and Scotty’s Café and Beachfront Bar offer plenty of activities to fill the days.
A premiere vacation destination just 1.5 miles from Lake George Village. The family-sized lodges feature two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a large great room with a fully-equipped kitchen, a living area and a dining area. Also features 300 ft. private sandy beach and heated indoor and outdoor pool. The on-premises Boathouse restaurant features waters edge dining with beautiful views of Lake George.
Located less than 1 mile from The Village of Lake George, the former summer home of Georgia O’keeffe. Luxurious vacation rentals feature newly remodeled lakefront accommodations with spacious, private units with abundant amenities and breathtaking views of the Adirondacks. From cozy fireplaces and jacuzzis to private balconies, beach access and outdoor grills, the townhouses at The Quarters have it all. Open all year long.
2896 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-877-749-0930 scottyslakesideresort.com
3210 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-853-1632 cresthavenlodges.com
3014 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-518-668-4901 lakegeorgeresorts.com
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RJA MEMORIAL MIGHTY MONTAUK TRIATHLON ounded in 1982 by the late Robert J. Aaron and long considered the east end season opener which would be celebrating its 31st anniversary this year. It features a very scenic course through the beautiful hamlet of Montauk. The race consists of a 1 mile swim, 22 miles bike and 6.2 miles run. This fun event is USAT sanctioned. This course must be completed in 3 hours 55 minutes. SWIM - The distance is 1 mile in the calm salt water of Lake Montauk. The course is out and back. Since this race is in the spring, wet suits are recommended (water temperature is normally around 55 degrees Fahrenheit). BIKE - The distance is 22 miles taking you along Montauk historical routes; giving you a bird’s eye view of the famous Montauk Lighthouse. The course is out and back with some hills. Hardshell helmets (ANSE approved) and bar end plugs are mandatory. This race adheres to USAT policy of NO DRAFTING. RUN - The distance is 6.2 miles through the scenic side of Montauk challenging hills. NO ELECTRONIC DEVICES ON THE COURSE (ex: iPods, MP3 players etc). No water stops on the bike course. However, water stops are at one mile intervals on the run course.
Major Beneficiaries • Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research • St Therese Youth Group • Phoenix House • East Hampton PBA • Montauk Ambulance Squad
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!
TRAVEL
HUDSON VALLEY ESCAPES By Laurie Bain Wilson
ou don’t have to time travel back to medieval days to experience breathtaking castles and magnificent estates—we’ve got them right here in New York’s Hudson Valley. Here, our picks for the best getaway. CASTLE HOTEL & SPA About 30 miles north of New York City, there’s a castle tucked in the Hudson Valley, in the heart of Sleepy Hollow country, a landscape of rolling hills and bucolic villages. It’s called the Castle Hotel & Spa, and like any good castle, it has a fable. Once upon a time, before the turn of the 20th century, General Howard Carroll, a newspaperman (he was the Washington, DC correspondent at The New York Times), a playwright (he wrote The American Countess which had a Broadway run) and a businessman, purchased some land. He built Carrollcliffe a 45-room castle, beginning in 1897 and completing in 1910. If only walls could talk: the castle hosted many regal parties with a guest list that included foreign dignitaries and social notables like Andrew Carnegie and J.P. Morgan. Later, in 1910, a new addition that included a dining room and ballroom was built, and when the General died in 1916, his widow and children lived there until 1940. The castle then had several incarnations, and in 1981 the town of Tarrytown designated the castle a historic landmark. In 1996 it opened as a luxury hotel, and in 2013 it was renovated with the addition of the spa. You’ll spy the castle long before you arrive— it sits atop one of the highest points in the region, with commanding views of the Hudson River and lower Hudson Valley. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 45
OLD WORLD MEETS CONTEMPORARY
There are 31 guest rooms and suites. Book one of the newly renovated luxury suites that are located in the original castle with spacious living rooms, bedroom and king four-poster bed, along with traditional armoires and contemporary features like flat-screen HDTVs and Keurig coffeemakers. Carrollcliffe is the name of the newest wing, the name giving the nod to the castle’s historical past and is home to Junior Suites with king-size beds and alcove sitting areas. Locally-sourced and organic ingredients are the thrust behind the hotel’s elegant Equus restaurant. Order the New York State Cheese plate and you’ll get a sampling of locally crafted cheeses served with baked bread and fresh fruit. Perfect sip: the Carrollcliffe Classic Martini (Genever, Lo-Fi Dry Vermouth, Absinthe Rinse, Cucumber Essence, Fennel Frond.) The castle crowns ten wooded acres, with one-mile hiking, walking and jogging trails on the property for a wellness dose of nature and fitness. There’s also a health and fitness center on property. And an outdoor pool is an especially tempting tease on hot summer days. Crave a rub or wrap? Succumb to a signature Asian treatment at the Sankara Spa, or just chill in the spa’s Relaxation Lounge. Serenity now. For more information on Castle Hotel Spa (a member of Small Luxury Hotels), visit castlehotelspa.com. West Terrace
Outdoor Pool
TARRYTOWN HOUSE ESTATE There’s another castle-like estate in the storied Hudson Valley region—the Tarrytown House Estate on the Hudson. And it, too, has a fable. In the mid-1800s through the turn of the century, the estate was home to generations of wealthy families of the tobacco and railroad industries. It was a party house, so to speak—lavish galas and receptions for wealthy New Yorkers. Fast forward to the mid-1960s, and the castle was still a place for gatherings but this time around as “the nation’s first commercial conference center.” At the helm was Bob Schwartz, Life Magazine’s New York Bureau Chief, who had reinvented the mansion to become Tarrytown House. But it was also a place for New Yorkers to escape the city.
FEEL LIKE A ROYAL
Today, it is still an idyllic spot for city slickers to retreat as well as a popular pick for destination weddings, especially May through mid-November. The hotel caters to adults in the summer, while families tend to visit, especially in the fall, particularly around Halloween—Sleepy Hollow is considered one of the most haunted places in the world. And like any good fable or fairytale, there is a heroine. At the Tarrytown House, the heroine is Lady, a black lab. Best of all, you can bring your dog, too—the hotel is pet-friendly.
The estate has 212 guestrooms and another 10 Georgian-era-inspired suites in the King Mansion, the oldest building on property. The restored 1840s mansion is named for Thomas King, who once-upon-a-time lived here in the 1900s. Some rooms have patios, and the rooms are outfitted with antique furnishings and contemporary amenities like flat screen TVs, Keurig coffee machines, and custom toiletries. Book the King Mansion Sundeck room and you’ll have a private terrace and sundeck with views of Manhattan. There are two swimming pools—an indoor pool and an outdoor summer adults-only pool with a Cabana Bar and Grill. There are also walking and jogging trails, hiking at nearby Bear Mountain (about a half-hour drive), and wine sipping at Torn Valley Vineyard (less than a half-hour drive). Also, expect a fitness center with a racquetball court and indoor hot tub and a sauna. Get out on the tennis court or tee off at one of the Hudson Valley’s nearby prestigious golf courses, hit the outdoor basketball court or bocce court, and play horseshoes and volleyball, too. Dig into classic American tavern food at Cellar 49, a cozy spot in the original cellar of the historic Biddle Mansion. The emphasis is on locally-sourced ingredients from area farms, breweries and wineries like Hudson Valley Harvest in Kingston, New York and Hillrock Estate Distillery in Ancram, New York. There is also an ambitious wine program at the estate. You choose from several room packages this summer. Book the signature Bed and Breakfast package and you’ll get daily breakfast for two in the Biddle Mansion. For more information on Tarrytown House Estate, visit tarrytownhouseestate.com. • 46 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Global Travel + Tours & EXCURSIONS “Where Luxury Meets Passion”
Come, Join Us!
One Day Excursion Swimming with the Pigs
+ Optional Adventures Exuma, The Bahamas
Spanish Wells or
Harbour Island – Pink Sand Beach
Please visit our website for other “Wonder” Excursions!
242.477.4103 242.803.4918
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GOLD RUSH
CALIFORNIA BOUND? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THESE WINNING RESORTS. By Diana Roberts
So much about southern California is golden, from the sun to the fabulous vistas. And there’s no better way to experience its glow than from behind the stately doors of these enchanting hotel and resorts. FAIRMONT MIRAMAR HOTEL & BUNGALOWS Santa Monica If there’s a Heaven, it must look an awful lot like this grand hotel, smack on Santa Monica’s Ocean Ave. The views! The amenities! The bungalows! Ah, yes. The Bungalows. Originally added to the historic hotel in 1938, the secluded and private bungalows were a home away from home for some of the most iconic stars of Old Hollywood. Legends including Jean Harlow, Marilyn Monroe, and Greta Garbo, who would retreat to the Miramar as a hideaway, and Jean Simmons who resided in a bungalow for seven months. Tucked within the Miramar gardens, these 31 bungalows, including four bilevel suites, were recently updated to incorporate a fresh mix of mid-century modern design, Southern California oceanfront style, and natural textures. Each of the new suites has a unique personality, and combine a bright color palette with organic elements throughout, integrating cooling gray-blue hues, custom lighting, and local-inspired vintage artwork, reflective of the Santa Monica beach community. From seagull-shaped light fixtures and wallpaper that creates the illusion of wood paneling, the suites bring the natural beauty of coastal California indoors. On top of that, the hotel is home to the beautiful lobby lounge, where you can dine outdoors by waterfalls and koi fishpond, and Fig, which sources straight from the Santa Monica farmer’s market. Fitness enthusiasts can work out in the health club and Exhale’s mind, body, spa. Not long ago, a Glam & Co outpost offering blowouts was opened. Heaven never looked so chic. Info: fairmont.com/santa-monica. 48 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
THE BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL Beverly Hills Yes, this is that hotel, the world famous pink cupcake that has been part of Hollywood lore forever. But like some of the city’s most iconic residents, it was in need of a facelift. To date, the lobby, Polo Lounge, famed pool cabanas and Cabana Café, and all guest rooms and most suites in the main building have been updated and will continue through 2019. Steeped in history as the preferred “home away from home” for generations of Hollywood royalty, the historic bungalows at The Beverly Hills Hotel include color palettes inspired by warm Southern California tones, such as rust, pinks, greens, and golds. First introduced in 1915 to accommodate families that wanted more space and privacy, the iconic bungalows remain an essential part of the hotel’s character. They have known the world over for their history with Hollywood royalty and colorful anecdotes, which include Gloria Swanson temporarily residing in one after getting divorced, Elizabeth Taylor spent six of her eight honeymoons there, and Lauren Bacall and Marlene Dietrich each called them home for over a year. Marilyn Monroe spent weeks at a time in her favorite Bungalow 7 and filmed Let’s Make Love in Bungalows 20 and 21. Howard Hughes lived on-and-off in Bungalow 4 for 30 years and registered several others under his name so no one would know which one he was occupying. He also requested that one of his meals of choice, roast beef sandwiches, be left under a tree outside his bungalow almost every night. The hotel was thrilled to comply. Info: dorchestercollection.com/en/los-angeles/the-beverly-hills-hotel.
Beverly Hills Hotel Bungalow
Beverly Hills Hotel The Ranch at Laguna Beach
THE RANCH AT LAGUNA BEACH Laguna Beach The Ranch at Laguna Beach aspires to be the coolest hotel in Laguna Beach, and they pretty well succeed. Midway between Los Angeles and San Diego in the picturesque Southern California arts community of Laguna Beach, The Ranch is set on 87 acres just inside the steep walls of Aliso and Woods Canyons.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach Laguna Beach
The completely renovated boutique hotel embodies an authentic beach cottage flavor that fully captures the charm and artistic heritage of the quaint seaside village of Laguna Beach. The piece de resistance is the Tree House: a 1,600-square foot, twostory residence, complete with private entrance, two bedrooms and three baths featuring a Master Suite and guest bedroom. Included is a full kitchen, a wrap-around deck, boasting inspiring golf course and canyon views. Guests dine at Harvest restaurant, which marries the bounty of the season with the atmosphere and creativity of Laguna Beach into a dizzying array of local flavors, ingredients, and traditions of California cuisine. Or you can order Ben’s Pantry, outside by the fire pit (where there’s live music!). Check the chalkboard for the day’s specialties, featuring Artisan sandwiches that utilize the best seasonal ingredients. Info: theranchlb.com. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49
LANGHAM HUNTINGTON Pasadena Happy tenth anniversary to the Langham Huntington (formerly the Huntington Hotel), just minutes from downtown. The hotel has 377 elegantly furnished rooms, suites, and cottages, each one with expansive views of the surrounding landscape and nearby mountains. To celebrate, the Langham is offering yoga classes in the Japanese Garden (Saturdays and Sundays at 9:00 am from Memorial Day through Labor Day); hotel property tours (conducted daily); and lawn games like bocce ball, badminton, croquet, mini-golf, and other surprises. There’s also a “Pink X” anniversary drink in the Tap Room bar, along with the hotel’s signature afternoon tea with Wedgwood in The Lobby Lounge. England never looked so good. And so sunny. Info: langhamhotels.com/ en/the-langham/pasadena.
Tournament of Roses Suite Patio
THE RANCH 4.0 AT THE FOUR SEASONS Westlake Village Get your glow back at The Ranch 4.0, the 4-day version of The Ranch Malibu’s acclaimed 7-day wellness program, which includes 4 hours of daily hiking, yoga, cardio and conditioning classes, massages, and a 1,400 calorie-a-day organic vegan diet. It’s impossible not to lose inches if that’s what you’re going for (as well as a couple of pounds); many guests continue to do so long after they leave. The Ranch 4.0 Property
The Ranch 4.0 Interior
The Ranch 4.0 features a Thursday through Monday stay that is specially designed for those who can’t or don’t want to take a full week off, but want to kick-start their fitness routine. Unlike the Ranch Malibu, which is tucked away in the mountains, the mini-version takes place at the Four Seasons Westlake Village, in the heart of the Conejo Valley. This means there are “non-program” people walking around, and endless temptations. (The Ranch staff locks your minibar, but it does take some willpower to resist the hotel restaurants or bar.) But there are benefits of staying in the real world, Wi-Fi access notwithstanding. Ranch 4.0 guests can take advantage of hotel facilities, including the indoor and outdoor pools, diagnostic fitness testing through a BOD POD body composition assessment and a VO2 Metabolic test. You can also indulge in an array of a la carte spa services like acupuncture, hypnotherapy, spa treatments, and energy healing (not included in the fee). By the end of the four days, you will be exhausted, but you’ll also never feel better. You’ve earned every blister. Info: theranchmalibu.com.
LA QUINTA RESORT & CLUB La Quinta Frank Capra dubbed it his Shangri-La of Screenwriting. Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains, La Quinta Resort & Club, a member of the Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, is one of only two resorts in the country for which a city has been named (La Quinta!). Nearly 140 miles southeast of Los Angeles, the hotel is nestled in the Coachella Valley, which has gained popularity for that little music festival. La Quinta’s verdant grounds are accentuated by beds of colorful flowers; fragrant orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees; cypress trees and cacti; sparkling pools and picturesque courtyards, all framed by towering palms. Greta Garbo, Bette Davis, Errol Flynn and Clark Gable were frequent visitors. In fact, Capra wrote It’s a Wonderful Life here. For similar inspiration, guests can rent the Frank Capra Suite, with the original wood-burning fireplace, a king bedroom and separate living and dining areas. However, if writing the next big Oscar-winning film is not your thing, you can always zip around the 45 acres on a bike or pamper yourself at the 23,000 square foot Spa La Quinta. The resort is also near miles of hiking trails including the seven-mile Bear Creek Canyon Trail. Info: laquintaresort.com. • 50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
La Quinta Pool
TRAVEL
GRENADA
SPICE, BEAUTY & GREAT VIBES By Darren Paltrowitz
ith rainforest-clad mountains rising behind its white- and black-sand beaches, it’s no wonder eco-tourism is hot on Grenada. This lush, tranquil island is light-years away from glitzy resorts and casinos. In Grenada, glittering nightlife means counting stars overhead as waves dance over your toes. No high-rise hotels are towering above the palm trees here. Even Grenada’s capital, St. George’s, is pure postcard: quaint pastel buildings topped with red-tile roofs form a picture-perfect frame around the city’s azure harbor. At just a dozen miles across and 21 miles long, Grenada is a little corner of the Caribbean that seems from a slower-paced time. The island is perfect for a beautiful getaway. And fortunately for New Yorkers, Grenada has direct flights daily from JFK to St. George’s Maurice Bishop International Airport, courtesy of JetBlue Airways. The friendly, English-speaking people are another plus; Grenada and its sister islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, form an independent nation with the British Commonwealth.
WHAT TO SEE & DO
At the island’s center, Grand Etang National Park is a fantasyland for hikers. Here, nature’s soundtrack plays—the chattering of monkeys, the whistling chirp of tiny tree frogs and the splash of waterfalls. The main trail through the rainforest leads to the park’s sapphire centerpiece—Grand Etang Lake, which fills the vast crater of an extinct volcano. En route, visitors may spot some of the 150 bird species that inhabit this island trio, such as the unique Grenada dove, emeraldthroated hummingbird, and yellow-breasted bananaquit. No less enthralling are coral kingdoms under Grenada’s turquoise waves, and most of it dive sites lie less than a halfhour away from shore by boat. The coral wall known as Flamingo Bay swarms with Grenada’s most prolific fish life. And Point Moliniere, a marine preserve, is home to iridescent parrotfish, blue tangs, neon-orange squirrelfish, and other brilliant marine life. However, some visitors prefer to toss masks, fins and picnic supplies in a car and set out to discover the perfect beach—Grenada has nearly 50 to choose from, including nine of exotic black sand. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51
FLAVORFUL PLEASURES
A tour of St. George’s often begins at colonial Fort George, where the 18th-century battlements afford panoramic views of the red-roofed, storybook city and its sheltered harbor far below. The bustling produce market in the center of town is equally picturesque, with fruits and vegetables artfully arranged in open-air stalls. The market and nearby shops are also good places to pick up spicefilled mini-baskets: Grenada which produces more nutmeg than any country in the Western Hemisphere, also produces cinnamon, cloves, and other spices. In colonial days, Grenada was renowned as the Isle of Spice. You can learn about how spices are grown and processed by visiting the Dougaldston Spice Plantation. A must-see is The Belmont Estate, home to the Grenada Chocolate Tourism Company, which bills itself as “the Caribbean’s Finest Agri-tourism Experience.” Visitors are shown how cocoa beans are fermented and dried. Detailed tours provide a glimpse into how the estate’s cocoa beans are turned into chocolate. There’s a good restaurant offering buffet Creole lunches, and a shop where you can buy the Grenada Chocolate Company’s awardwinning chocolate bars.
MUSIC TO YOUR EARS Spices and chocolate are only some of the things that make Grenada stand out from other Caribbean destinations. The island also hosts a world-class music festival. I had the pleasure of visiting Grenada earlier this year during the 2018 Pure Grenada Music Festival. The three-night musical extravaganza took place on the Port Louis Lawn and featured a Soul Night, a Reggae Night and a Caribbean Night. The fun-filled music show featured world-class performers including UK soul artist, Daley; New York-based R&B artist Chrisette Michele; homegrown Grenada talent Sabrina Francis; Grammywinning reggae group Morgan Heritage; and the Queen of SOCA, Alison Hinds. For more information on Pure Grenada Music Festival, visit grenadamusicalfestival.com.
BEST BET
Within my five-day stay in Grenada, I had the pleasure of staying at the Mount Cinnamon Resort & Beach Club (mtcinnamongrenadahotel. com). Mount Cinnamon—named “Best Caribbean Resort” by USA Today’s 2018 Readers’ Choice poll— overlooks the popular two-mile-long Grand Anse Beach. Once on Mount Cinnamon’s stretch of sand (across the street from the resort), which is a private yet welcoming beach club, there is plenty to do beyond the sand and water. For starters, there is a cabana with a menu from the on-site Savvy’s Restaurant & Bar, which offers a mix of traditional West Indian, Caribbean and pub food favorites; the produce used for the menu is homegrown, of course. There are outdoor sporting options (ping-pong, volleyball, shuffleboard, scuba school) and equipment rentals, beyond the beach chairs and umbrellas, so you can honestly do as much—or as little—as you want while visiting the beach. Back at the resort, if having a spectacular view from your villa is not enough, there is a pool, a tennis court, and a 24-hour fitness center. Regarding customer service, nearly every staff member I encountered during my stay knew my name after one meeting. For more information on Grenada and its attractions, visit puregrenada.com. •
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TRAVEL
FROM PARIS WITH LOVE By Jeremy Murphy
here iz ze cat? Not the greeting you expect from a five-star Parisian palace but it’s apropos for the Hotel Plaza Athénée where every guest, quirk and paw is embraced at the drop of a chapeau. I had the occasion to bring my furry friend Champers (named after French Champagne) on a visit to the grand dame, and to this day, it’s always their first greeting. It’s just one of the reasons Paris is my mon ami. No doubt about it, Paris is the world’s most glamorous destination. Put your hands down, Los Angeles! Stop wailing, Milan. And we love you, New York, but let’s give our love to the City of Love. The fashion capital of the world, with history, culture and monuments to spare, attracts the world’s elite and those just wanting a taste. It’s chic, sleek and brimming with mystique all at once.
VIOLA! WE’VE ARRIVED The most important decision in visiting Paris is where to stay. It’s an easy call. Distinction Palace is an official government decree awarding the truly worthy the royal blessing. There are the mainstays (Le Bristol, Le Meurice, The Royal Monceau, the George V), new jeunes (The Mandarin, Shangri-La, Park Hyatt) and the very top is Hotel Plaza Athénée, the 105-year grand dame perched majestically off Avenue Montaigne, Paris’ undisputed den of decadence. The Plaza Athénée is by far the most Parisian, with Louis XVI furnishings and accents, Art Deco inspired décor, rooms draped in taffetas, velvets and bits of gold embroidery, elaborate crown moldings and a signature amber scent that evokes a past romantic life. It’s impossible not to feel glamorous here, especially knowing its ties to Christian Dior (he once staged his shows in its lobby, and the spa is branded Dior Institute), proximity to the finest haute couture salons and its immortalization in culture populaire: Sex and the City filmed its series end at the hotel, as did The Devil Wears Prada. The ambiance is royal-courtmeets fashion runway. In fact its lobby Galleries is the best people watching in Paris, as the glitterati glide through rolling their Goyards. 54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Suite Haute Couture
DINING Paris likes to see itself as the birthplace of haute cuisine, and in many cases, it is. French gourmand Alain Ducasse, perhaps the world’s most celebrated chef, has several to consider: his top restaurants at the Plaza Athénée and Le Bristol, and the popular Jules Verne inside the Eiffel Tower. The opulent eatery has a terrific tasting menu and amazing views of Paris, but the influx of not-so-well-dressed diners is a bit off-putting. The ultimate in dining is L’Atelier Joel Robuchon on the Left Bank, where guests sit next to each other in a square shaped bar and savor entrees from foie gras to mini-hamburgers (not sliders… sacre bleu!) Add in a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and you’re in heaven. One of Paris’ most famous institutions is Tour d’Argent, which dates itself back to 1582 and cites Henry IV as a guest. The food is classic French – its specialty is duck, which is raised on its own farm. The piece de resistance, though, is its 450,000-wine bottle list. For authentic, book a table at Fontaine de Mars, an old school brasserie from 1908 where President Obama and Michelle once dined on cassoulet.
AlainDucasse L’Atelier Joel Rubochon
For those looking for American tastes, Ralph Lauren’s Ralphs off Saint Germaine has all the traditional (and delicious) staples: burgers, salads, sandwiches, steaks. But before you end any day or start/finish any night, consider drinks at Bar Hemingway, the out-of-nowhere watering hole once frequented by the celebrated writer inside the Ritz. Located all the way in the back, the small, tackle-shop decorated bar is a complete throwback to a different era but contemporized by the libations of head pourer Colin Field.
SHOPPING In addition to the flagship Dior boutique off Avenue Montaigne, Paris is home to the best couture and vintage collections. Coco Chanel’s original atelier off Rue Cambon is still a must-visit; though surprisingly small it’s historical significance puts it top of the list (just dress the part). The three level Hermes, crown jewel of the luxury French brand, offers the well-coiffed anything they can grasp: from bracelets to Birkin bags, housewares to horse saddles. Louis Vuitton has more than a dozen boutiques around Paris, though it’s most famous is off the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, a surprising destination considering it’s the city’s equivalent of New York’s Broadway. Still, the three-level landmark is a shopper’s delight and it’s the one luxury outpost open on Sundays. For the vintage minded, there is one stop: Didier Ludot, in the Galerie Montpensier. Didier, the “enfant terrible” of Paris’ couture, may have attitude to spare but he also has the best couture. Does this clutch come in croc? Euchante, madam. • Shopping at Coco Chanel
GETTING THERE It’s counter intuitive to think a British airline is your best bet to Paris, but ‘tis story. British Airways’ “Open Skies” route is the best kept secret in the air. A direct flight from Newark to Paris’ Orly Airport in a small, 100-seat plane that ensures maximum attention and comfort. Its Biz Bed class features a 180-degree flat bed, vintage French wines and cuisine, while its premium and economy have more space and amenities than traditional long-haul carriers. Flying into Orly has its privileges: it’s small and easier to navigate. The route is BA’s only direct NY to Paris but travelers might also consider a short connection in London Heathrow, where its Terminal 5 features the best shopping, eating, and lounging than any international airport.
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 55
TRAVEL
THE COOL MEDITERRANEAN SUMMER’S SIZZLING HOT SPOTS By Norah Bradford
here’s only one summer playground for the wealthiest and most influential. It’s called the Mediterranean. They traverse the blue waters in their mega-yachts to make appearances at many of the world-famous party ports from St. Tropez to Ibiza. And viewing those yachts is like a show in itself. Once a mere 100 feet, yachts now reach lengths of 300 feet and beyond (with price tags to match!). Here’s what’s happening on the Mediterranean this summer. ST. TROPEZ The third week in July builds to a crescendo where the Beau Monde and the fashionable set will make their first stop on the Côte d’Azur, for a jaunt in St. Tropez, where they can explore the decadence of Europe. Port de St. Tropez has been named as one of the top five most expensive places to dock a yacht in the world because the marina is comprised of only thirty yacht slips. (Tipping the port at least a thousand dollars a day is de rigueur.) First up is Le Club 55 (frequented by celebrities including Penelope Cruz and U2’s Bono) nestled beachfront and featuring a private pier. This makes it easy for yacht passengers to disembark and enjoy a world-renowned lunch. Once evening falls, head to Hotel Byblos, home of hot nightclub Le Caves du Roy, frequented by millionaires, models, and royalty. Look carefully and you’ll spot Mick Jagger and Jay-Z, both of whom will relax knowing that the club’s security team will keep out the paparazzi.
Le Club 55
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MONACO On the first weekend in August mega-yacht cruisers will head to the next noteworthy stop: Monaco. The quarter of Monte Carlo is dotted with the most luxurious hotels including Monte Carlo Bay, spas, casinos, and nightclubs, like Jimmy’z Monte Carlo which attracts a young and trendy crowd. Keep an eye out for the Octopus, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s extravagant $200 million yacht, in Port de Monaco. Prince Albert II will host the Monte Carlo Red Cross Gala Ball at the Monte Carlo Sporting Club (Karl Lagerfeld has attended in the past). The annual fundraiser gathers guests for a great time and an even greater cause.
SARDINIA By the end of the second week in August A-Listers from around the world will dock their yachts for the weekend in Porto Cervo, Sardinia, east of Italy’s mainland. Five-star landmark Hotel Cala di Volpe, the chicest retreat on Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda. (Want to stay in the Presidential Suite? Be prepared to spend $21,000 a night.) A typical Sardinian evening for the elite begins with fine dining at the island’s outpost of Cipriani followed by a late night of dancing to the trendiest music at Billionaire, where you may spot Naomi Campbell or Leonardo DiCaprio. Another Billionaire fan is Swizz Beatz, who held his bachelor party here before marrying Alicia Keys. Carry the festivities into the next day by watching sunrise seaside—then repeat!
CAPRI Make a quick stop on the Isle of Capri to visit the iconic Capri Palace, where the Beckhams and Mariah Carey have stayed. Are you a foodie? Don’t miss out on a meal at Don Alfonso 1890, a family-run restaurant that holds two Michelin stars.
IBIZA By the third weekend of August—yachters like Sean “Diddy” Combs locate on one of the Balearic Islands just south of Spain. One of the most exclusive destinations in the world, Ibiza’s Port Adriano recently enlarged the marina to make room for mega-yachts. Cas Gasí Hotel, the isle’s best-kept secret, treats its celebrity clients (Kate Moss and Robert De Niro among them) to the most beautiful views of the island. Ibiza is known for its nightlife, and regulars like Madonna and Jade Jagger often spend evenings dancing on tables at sexy cocktail lounge Aura. This weekend the A-list crowd will be mingling on the hottest yachts, including billionaire Andrey Melnichenko’s mega-yacht A, which cost more than $300 million to build. Though the party season in the Mediterranean may end here, yacht passengers don’t stop partying. The mega-yachts will migrate to the Caribbean for the winter, before returning once again the following year for more summer fun in the Mediterranean. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57
TRAVEL
TOKYO
SERENE DAYS, ELECTRIC NIGHTS By Michael Alpiner
or travelers eager to understand why Tokyo will be the site of the 2020 Summer Olympics, a deep dive into the culture and tradition of the Land of the Rising Sun is just about mandatory. Japan’s capital beat out Istanbul in the final decision-making round to become the first Asian city to host the Olympic Games twice. Like so many destinations, Japan is looking to connect its tourists with both travel experiences that eclipse all others, as well as learning experiences that encourage Japanese cultural and historical awareness.
WHAT TO SEE & DO This can be achieved in the open air through the exploration of Japan’s many monuments and museums dedicated to its rich history. For instance, The Imperial Palace, now the current residence of the Japanese Imperial Family, offers tourists an impressive view of the grounds (visitors are not allowed inside the palace). Likewise, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum attracts native Japanese and tourists to walk the solemn path of history. Though the main building is currently closed for renovations and is set to re-open in the spring of 2019, the East building is open and vibrant with artifacts and videos that inform and inspire visitors to self-reflect. Another memorable excursion for travelers to Japan is a trek up Mount Takao the most visited mountain in the world. Not only will one discover outstanding natural elements, but a visit to Mount Takao also celebrates the two main religions of Japan, Shinto, and Buddhism. A fifty-minute train ride from Shinjuku on the Keio line brings tourists to the base of the mountain where souvenirs and snacks are available as an energy boost for the semi-formidable uphill climb taken by the 2.6 million people who visit Mount Takao annually. 58 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
AN UPHILL CLIMB
To scale Mount Takao, most tourists utilize the cable car which is only a five-minute scenic walk from the Takaosanguchi Station. The cable car is necessary as the incline is the steepest in all Japan at 31 degrees. The path is lined by intermittent lanterns and ema boards that celebrate the people and organizations who have contributed to the maintenance of the grounds. Along the way, travelers eventually encounter a torii, the gateway to a Shinto shrine. An open courtyard framed by Japanese-style edifices and majestic trees creates the natural stage which culminates to a Shinto shrine where hands are washed, and coins are offered up for prayers. Ravens dominate the sky, caw and croak, adding gothic tone to the black and grey pavement. Statues of Tengu, the Buddhist and Shinto slayer of vanity in Japanese folk culture, greet visitors as they proceed up the mountain to the Buddhist temple. There, one can witness a fire ceremony, and drift into a rapturous trance amidst the gongs and drums, the chants of the Buddhist priests, and the crowds of followers lined up with a palm full of ground herbs to present to the deities. One can even eat like a monk at the head temple Takao-san Yakou-in, located near the Buddhist temple on Mount Takao. The food is all vegetarian and delicious, many of the dining areas are private, and the atmosphere is thoroughly authentic. Back at sea level, or thereabouts, and after a rest from the fresh mountain air, travelers will not be at a loss for shopping, dining or nightlife. Retail stores are everywhere and often occupy whole multi-level buildings. On the ground floor, merchandise spills out onto the street drawing shoppers in through elaborate billboards and marquis, and even some stores employ young ladies dressed even more youthful with a megaphone in one hand (and of course a cell phone in the other), coaxing customers to enter the commercial paradise. Bright colors, neon lights, anime characters or photo-shopped models looking like a superhero fellowship are the typical marketing angles.
BEST STAY
But for that more up-scale Japanese cultural experience, tourists must stay at the Keio Plaza Hotel (keioplaza.co.jp) in downtown Shinjuku. Open since 1971; the hotel offers exceptional service and posh accommodations. Some rooms are economical in size but large in amenities. For instance, a standard room provides guests their own Smartphone for making international calls or even Google maps for exploring the city (good idea since there are few street signs to guide the visiting pedestrian). There are stunning views of the metropolitan expanse, and, on a clear day, a view of Mount Fuji in the distance. The suites are roomy and luxurious with beautiful artistic elements (Muhammad Ali once stayed in one of the suites during his visit in the 70s for a boxerwrestler exhibition). Another set of rooms are structured to accommodate larger families with as many as four separate beds in one small space, purely Japanese. For more traditional experiences, one can stay in a Tatami room, where the plush furnishings are exchanged for the beauty of simplicity, and the tranquility of the mind replaces corporal indulgence—a purely Zen experience. The hotel proudly offers a menu of cultural experiences as well. Guests can partake in instructional sessions where they learn flower arrangement and tea ceremonies from trained experts in their respective fields. One can indulge in spa treatments while sporting a yukata, a thin robe tied at the waist, akin to a kimono. Also, the restaurants offer traditional dining experiences that stimulate the palate as boldly as it stimulates the mind. Sushi has never tasted so good as it does in Kyubey where master chefs prepare the delicacy with care and incredible flavors. This is only one of about twenty dining experiences available at the hotel. One can write volumes about the tastes, sights, sounds, and culture of Japan. It is as much a cool destination as it is a way of thinking, a way of prioritizing one’s life. A lesson one can learn from a series of visits, or perhaps only one visit is that joy comes from caring about the comfort of others, and trusting that it becomes a universal way of life. It is expressed in the chants of the Buddhist monks, in the soft voices of the beautiful waitresses, in the bows of the concierge and the tacit arigatou acknowledging my presence, in the care taken to make my Japan experience as simple and enjoyable as possible. Precision is tantamount to respect, and selflessness is the path to joy. For more information on Tokyo, Japan, visit jnto.go.jp/en. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59
TRAVEL
THE SILVER MUSE SAILING THE SEAS IN STYLE By Patti Pietschmann
he most romantic thing happened during a magical 13-day Caribbean cruise on the super swank Silversea Silver Muse. We were one night out of Fort Lauderdale when we returned from dinner to find our suite decorated with balloons, disco-like lights bouncing off batteryoperated candles and a colorful revolving globe that gave off romantic tunes by Kenny Rogers (“You Decorated My Life,” and “Through The Years”). It was our wedding anniversary and our butler, Pedro, helped us celebrate. He even set up a gorgeous table with a sinfully delicious chocolate cake. Everything about Silversea—a member of an elite group of cruise lines that operate small, upscale ships that cater to Champagne tastes and Park Avenue budgets—is unique. The 596 passenger Silver Muse is the newest member and a real goddess of the sea. We’re not talking bodacious behemoth boat here, but intimacy and comfort.
REST & RELAXATION Go ahead, sit back and relax and gaze at the wake from panoramic windows in different lounges or from your balcony. Of course, other options ensue: relaxing in a cozy deck chair, swimming in the large pool, hitting the gym to work off the calories from the gourmet meals, pampering yourself at the gorgeous spa which offers head-to-toe treatments, hair care, and more. The spa also sports sauna and steam rooms with windows overlooking the sea. The Muse offers ten diverse dining venues providing steaks, lobster, fresh fish, Asian food and specialty dishes. Of course, there were luscious desserts served in the restaurants or the Arts Café—which was stocked with sinfully calorific goodies (thank goodness for the fitness center). Of course, there is no escaping the daily activities on Silver Muse. Take a morning deck walk, then dive into trivia contests, movies, shuffleboard, a golf driving cage, bridge parties, seminars, lectures, and jogging on deck. 60 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
SUITE LIVING
Silver Muse is an all-suite ship; each one comes with 24/7 butler service. The Silver Suites are the most popular boasting spacious cabins with luxurious amenities as well as long verandas. Bathrooms are swathed in marble, beds are fitted with luxe linens. But the elegance doesn’t stop: a mirrored wall magically transforms into two TVs (one for the sitting room the other in the bedroom) where you can see restaurant menus, on-demand movies at the click of your remote. The most impressive accommodations include the super swank Owner’s Suite that comes with adjoining bedroom and en-suite bathroom with spectacular sea views.
FEATURING 1,200 Feet Of Sunny Beaches 2 Heated Swimming Pools Restaurant & Beach Bar Arcade For The Kids In Season; Breakfast for Guest Rooms & Suites All Season; Continental Breakfast for Captains Quaters and Townhomes
A DINING DIFFERENCE Our Silver Suite on Deck 11 was two doors from a lounge which affords panoramic views of the sea. Each night we strolled over where Rodney, the friendly barkeep, adeptly prepared martinis before dinner. Some of our dining excursions took us to Atlantide or the Asian Indochine both serving outstanding cuisine. Other nights we found ourselves enjoying our favorite Hot Rocks—a poolside eatery where you cook your own veal chop, steak or fish on a sizzling hot plate placed in the center of your table. We also took advantage of the indoor/outdoor La Terrazza, the three meal a day venue. Another notto-be-missed highlight is the Silver Note supper club, where a talented jazz singer and equally adept pianist performed while guests ate or sat at the bar.
The only thing we overlook is the Atlantic Ocean.
HERE COMES THE CARIBBEAN After a day at sea, we continued our journey exploring the beautiful islands of the Caribbean calling at ports in Antigua, Barbados, St. Barth, St, Thomas, St, Kitts, and Martinique. Silversea offers a huge variety of shore excursions and the list on this trip was tantalizing. Everything from a rum and chocolate tour in Barbados, zip-lining in Antigua, city tours, to plenty of snorkeling, scuba diving, golf and more. One highlight on shore came on a Sunday in Antigua when we visited nearby St. John’s Cathedral, and listened to a melodic choir that was so good it gave us chills. We also checked out duty-free port shops in St. Thomas and did window shopping and hit our favorite Shell Beach in St. Barth. The Silver Muse offers itineraries ranging from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to Asia and the southernmost tip of Argentina. Wherever your heart takes you, it’s impeccable service with the emphasis on luxury. For more information on all Silversea Cruises, visit silversea.com. •
(631) 668-5103 or 5104 126 South Emerson Avenue Montauk, New York www.royalatlantic.com
FEATURES
THROUGH THE LENS Photography By AnnieWatt.com
YOUTH AMERICA GRAND PRIX GALA
Marcella Hymowitz, YAPG Dancers
UMASS LOWELL ALUMNI AWARDS
Award Recipients Virginia Comley & James F. Comley
AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE LOUVRE GALA DINNER
Becca Cason, Michael Kennelly, Meg Goodman
Andrew Martin-Weber, Olivia Flatto, Laure Vienot, Giancarlo Facchi Chancellor Jacqueline Moloney, Virginia Comley, James F. Comley
James Goldschmidt, Jorge Viladoms, Amanda Jennings, Richard Kielar James F. Comley & Chancellor Jacqueline Moloney
John Molner, Katie Couric
John Feudo, James F. Comley, Virginia Comley, Heather Makrez, Bonnie Comley
62 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Kip Forbes, Elizabeth Segerstrom
Michael Donnell, George Farias, Jennifer Fischer, Tom Quick
Nicolas Sale, Scott Bessent
TRACY STERN HOSTS A BRIDGE TO THE HOLY LAND
THE MUSEUM OF DEMOCRACY BENEFIT EVENING
MJHI’S MANHATTAN JEWISH HALL OF FAME 2018
Manhattan Jewish Hall Of Fame Inductees Randi Schatz, Tracy Stern, Ivonne Camacho, Lauren Lawrence
Models
Dr. Arkady Lipnitsky, Bill-Lee Lanndis, Ivonne Camacho, Princess Monika, Dr. Natalya Fazylova, Jane Pontarelli
Bill-Lee Lanndis, Princess Monika, Princess Tinu Ladapo, Ivonne Camacho, Rose Hartman, Dr. Natalya Fazylova, Dr. Arkady Lipnitsky
Annie Watt, Tracy Stern, Pilar Rossi, Lida Nussbaum
Candace Gonzalez, Elizabeth Gabbay, Paige Van Ness, Linda Hoffman, Fran Pildes
Jean Shafiroff, Andrea Catsimatidis, Nicole Miller
Ann Van Ness, Nicole Miller, Pamala Wright, David McKeown
Bonnie Comley, Letty Cottin Pogrebin, Stewart F. Lane, Leah Lane
Floyd Abrams, Letty Cottin Pogrebin, Stewart F. Lane, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Jennifer Raab
Stewart F. Lane, Stuart Appelbaum
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 63
ART NY AT PIER 94
MARISSA ROBIN ABENDAÑO EXHIBITS NEWEST PAINTINGS AT ART EPO
Tommy Hilfiger, Skyler Grey, Al-Baseer Holly
REFINE AT THE MUSEUM OF ARTS AND DESIGN
MAD’s 2018 REFINE Jewelry Artists
Jane Pontarelli, Jade Perkins, Marissa Robin Abendaño
Deborah Rosen, Todd Townell, Barbara Tober Art New York tent with crowd
Joe Namath, Gigi Benson, Harry Benson
Nick Korniloff, Adrien Brody, Aubrey Gruss, Joe Namath
Caricia Ramirez, Marissa Robin Abendaño, Violetta Tadla
Joan Horning, Franci Sagar Gary Meisel, Joe Pontarelli
Joe Pontarelli, Annie Watt, Jade Perkins, Jane Pontarelli, Marissa Robin Abendaño, Joel Kincaid
64 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Nicole Roth, Suneera Ana Swarup, Brianna Chiarello
J MCLAUGHLIN HOSTS A BENEFIT FOR THE ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER
Donna Weissman, Ali Fine, Alison Minton, Joanne Ronson
SOLDIERS’ SAILORS’ MARINES’ COAST GUARD AND AIRMEN’S CLUB’S KENTUCKY DERBY BRUNCH
CENTRAL PARK HAT LUNCHEON, FREDERICK LAW OLMSTED AWARDS
Lane-Comley table Guests enjoying the SSMAC balcony
Joan Hornig table Gay Schaye, Senor, Jack Lynch Andrew Bevan, Dounia, Greg Jones, Lilly and Mary Elizabeth Walker
Ogunlesi Table Linda Garnett, Josie Garnett, Oliver Brown, Alexandra Lydia Harrison, Ashley Puscas, Matt Rimi, Andrew Bevan
Michel Witmer, Dr. Penny Grant, Oscar
The SSMAC Junior Committee
Pamela Newkirk, Michael Bloomberg, Molly Campbell
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65
BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE LUNCHEON IN WASHINGTON DC
Troy Pittman, Eleni Tousimis, Rachel Brem, Yonni Wattenmaker, Judy Woodruff, Clifford Hudis, John Niederhuber
CHARLES JAMES PORTRAIT OF AN UNREASONALE MAN BY MICHELE GERBER KLEIN
MICHELLE-MARIE HEINEMANN’S BELLINI AND BLOODY MARY HAT PARTY
Belini and Bloody Mary guests Michele Gerber Klein, William Ivy Long, Laurie Brockway Bodor
Guests Ann Gerber, Susan Baker, Maggie Sheedy, Liz Legg, Yonni Wattenmaker
Anton Perich, Anthony Haden-Guest
Eleni Tousimis, Troy Pittman, Judy Woodruff, Rachel Brem, Clifford Hudis, John Niederhuber, Yonni Wattenmaker
Michelle-Marie Heinemann, Jennifer Harrison, Debbie Dickinson, Golda Parrott Charlie Scheips, Michele Gerber Klein
Ilaria Luce Ripoll, Lisa Walsh, Dr. Hildegarde de Toth
Scott McBee, Ralph Rucci, James Andrew, Paul Podlucky
66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Oren Parrott, Hyacinth Cornelia Heinemann, Hudson Heinemann, Golda Parrott
FUND FOR PARK AVENUE’S TULIPS & TEQUILA PARTY AT SCULLY & SCULLY
SOLDIERS’, SAILORS’, MARINES’, COAST GUARD AND AIRMEN’S CLUB’S RED, WHITE AND BLUE LUNCHEON
RENEWAL SUMMIT HOSTED BY CHERYL BENTON (THREE TOMATOES) AND ANNE AKERS (GLOW BEAUTY AND HEALTH)
Michael Scully, Barbara McLaughlin Cheryl Benton
Charlene Haroche, Lt. General Retired Bill Bender
Anna Kennedy, Michel Cox Witmer, Eleanora Kennedy Dr. Dennis Goodman, Sylvie Beljanski, Dr. Thomas Romo, Jane Hanson, Gerald Curatola DDS Cathy Erwin, Kari Tiedemann, Dorothy Newman, Margaret Ann Harley
Melanie Holland, David Holland
Margo Catsimatidis table
Tequila Team
Rachel Hickey
Jane Hanson, Cheryl Benton, Anne Akers
Roni Jenkins, Pat Addis, Edna Kaufman, Carol Sue Gershwin, Alice March JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67
FRENCH HERITAGE LITERARY AWARDS
Thad Carhart, Simo Neri, Christian Draz, Elizabeth Stribling, Francis De Marneff
ALBERT EINSTEIN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE’S 64TH ANNUAL SPIRIT OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD LUNCHEON
PUBLICOLOR’S ANNUAL SPRING BENEFIT STIR SPLATTER + ROLL
Andrea Stark, Penny Drue Baird, Jill Martin
Paige Davis, Ruth Lande Shuman, Doug Wilson
Dean Allen M. Spiegel, Jill Martin, Dr. Steven Safyer Chuck Close, Annie Watt
Jean Doyen De Montaillou, Jennifer Herlein, Michael Kovner
Trudy Schlachter, Dottie Herman, Jill Martin
Kyrin Kelly, Stephanie Castro, Peter Stamberg, Gerard Yosca
Thad Carhart, Elaine Sciolino
Yann Coatanlem, Odile De SchietereLongchampt
Trudy Schlachter, John Rockwell, Jill Martin
Philip Glass, Chris Ward
Whether it is a charitable cause, a magazine cover, or a special occasion, the photographers with Annie Watt.com make an occasion more memorable. Annie and her associates embody the essence of professionalism, seamlessly moving through any assignment with finesse and an innate ability to capture the moment at its heart. Book a photographer/videographer, contact annie@anniewatt.com. 68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
FEATURES
TECH TALK
SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY By Ted Owen
ven my team at the innovative eSports start-up PlayAPI occasionally break free from work and feel the need to be outside. Our business is about defining the next generation of software tools that will enable gamers and those tech-savvy athletes to compete fairly. Hopefully, we will see the first United States eSports Gold awarded at the 2024 Olympics. But to keep the creativity and drive alive towards these goals we need to enjoy the summer and play hard while working hard. Technology, of course, can help us in a variety of ways and here are a few tech-driven musts to make your Summer 2018 living as easy as can be.
HUSQVARNA
RACHIO
SENSIBO
Lawn Mowing can be hot, sweaty, and generally time-consuming. Husqvarna, while better known for their Swedish oldschool axes and chainsaws have come to the rescue. The Husqvarna Automower can be controlled by a phone app and silently programmed to mow your lawn as required. Best of all, when too wet or low on power it will recharge by itself. Info: husqvarna.com.
Set up a network of smart water sprinklers with Rachio which not only can be timed but also connects to the Internet to access local weather reports. This exclusive weather intelligence function includes a database of soil types based on your zip code to determine just how much water your garden needs. Info: rachio.com.
Perplexed you can’t find the air conditioning remote? Try the Sensibo Air Conditioner Controller which connects to just about any A/C that uses an infra-red control and gives it 2018 intelligence. Not only can you use Sensibo to set timers but the device can also be programmed to fluctuating changes in temperature, humidity, and comfort levels. Info: sensibo.com.
SAMSUNG
NOMAD
VLES
Samsung has solved one of today’s significant problems. How to deal with an empty refrigerator. The Samsung Family Hub Refrigerator has a vertical touchscreen occupying a quarter of its frontage which can be used to create shopping lists and order food. Also use the app to activate the internal camera to check the contents of the fridge. Even better, the Family Hub can stream television shows. Info: samsung.com.
So you are now outside enjoying the weather and catching up with gaming options on your phone or tablet. Battery power is everything and being able to recharge your device is just as crucial. Nomad’s Powerpack is ultra-rugged with military grade certification and should charge an iPhone 3.5 times on a single charge. Worried about losing such a handy device? The Nomad PowerPack also comes with a built-in tile Bluetooth tracker. How great is that? Info: hellomad.com.
Hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods are disastrous no matter where they may occur. Don’t panic! EMS experts Stuart and Karina Warshaw have come to the rescue with the VLES bag. A backpack designed with enough support for two people with a number of compartments, some of which can be pre-configured with basic needs and medical supplies. Info: vlesdesigns.com. •
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 69
Daniel J Bollinger Instagram ~ @DanielJBollinger
• New Development Expert • Luxury Specialist • NYC & Brooklyn • Debt/Equity Investments
Contact Daniel for all of your real estate needs: Daniel J Bollinger Licensed Real Estate Salesperson T: 646-677-0627 C: 718-662-9493 DJB@kwnyc.com 379 Broadway New York, NY 10013
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
NOTES FROM DB By Daniel J. Bollinger
HELLO BUYERS’ MARKET
WALL STREET
But this doesn’t sum up the whole market. The real estate market as a whole is very similar to the stock market. Prices for the lower end of the real estate market are still rising, while those on the high end are continuing to fall. The ‘netnet’ effect is still a rise in median prices of homes in the NYC area, but the significant increases of the past few years have slowed to a much more moderate rate. The rental market is mirroring this trend as well. New rental developments are offering all-time high concessions.
RECAP
The market today can be summed up by the word “discount.” We’ve transitioned into a “Buyers’ Market” now, and inventory is selling at discounts, some even at losses. Some good examples of this are: • 7 East 67th Street Townhouse Sold for $28.5 million, a $4.5 million loss from the $33 million purchase price in 2007. • 443 Greenwich Street Penthouse Sold for $43.7 million, a $14.3 million discount from its original $58 million listing price. • One57 Sold five units in the first quarter of 2018 all at discounts. In conjunction with this “discounting” trend, we also see the typical “flight to quality” in this type of market. For example: • The Getty Sold a penthouse for $59 million smashing a downtown sales record. • 4 East 75th Street Sold for $100 million, a record-breaking price for a commercial townhouse in NYC.
The DOW is trading sideways. We see a few days of the market closing higher followed by a few days of lower closings. The sentiment on the street is not favorable. There is a lot of hesitancy and worry on the street with all of the unknowns in our future.The market seems to have absorbed all of the global political instability in the world today with the market not showing any knee-jerk reactions to trade war news, and any tweets from the White House. The general trend over a multi-year period remains in an upward pattern. But if you look at only 2018, you will see a downward trend. It’s anyone’s bet where the market will go. There was a small “dead cat” bounce formation in the first quarter of 2018. Be wary of a market “melt up” before any potential crash that may come. Earnings season isn’t pushing the market up in any significant way, but is it keeping the market from plunging? There are too many unknowns for anyone to know the answer. There are some possible scenarios that can play out here—none positive. If the Fed raises interest rates significantly, we risk a bond crisis. If the Fed tries to “inflate” us out of this, then we risk a currency crisis. It seems the Fed is backed into a corner with nowhere to run and nowhere to hide, except for one asset class—that is Real Estate. Real Estate is possibly the safest asset class to hedge against inflation and as a safe-haven for value retention. NYC, in particular, is a market that doesn’t fall as much as other real estate markets globally and is certainly a city that bounces back higher and stronger from any downturn. Right now, as we have cycled into a buyers’ market, it is a great time to invest in NYC real estate. The general trend is downward (in both real estate and financial markets), but as one cannot time the market, I am advising all of my clients to invest in NYC real estate. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 71
WHERE EXCELLENCE LIVES
RYE, NEW YORK | Panoramic views of the Long Island Sound inspiring its traditional design, top quality modern finishes, high ceilings, custom millwork & marble surfaces throughout. This exquisite custom waterfront Georgian Colonial home is prominently sited on a fabulous Rye peninsula. Located only 35 minutes from NYC. 5 bedrooms, 4 full and 1 half baths | $13,750,000
RYE, NEW YORK | Spectacular Rye home located in prestigious Milton Point. Almost 5,000 sqft. Colonial ideal for entertaining and warm family living. Second floor views of the Long Island Sound, private backyard with pool and landscaped gardens.
RYE, NEW YORK | Nestled on a private cul-de-sac in Greenhaven, this recently updated home offers top of the line finishes, fixtures and modern amenities. Spacious 3+ heated garage with Swisstrax flooring, screened in porch, flagstone patio and basketball court.
5 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half baths | $3,595,000
6 bedrooms, 4 full and 1 half baths | $2,495,000
Sula Pearlman, Associate Real Estate Broker
C: 914.393.4104 | Sula.Pearlman@Cbmoves.com www.SulaPearlman.com | 25 Purdy Ave, Rye, NY 10580 2017 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All rights reserved Coldwell banker residential Brokerage supports the principles of fair housing act and the equal opportunity act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered and unregistered service marks owned by the Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate LLC. Property information supplied by seller and/or other sources and is not guaranteed. If your property is currently listed for sale, this is not intended as a listing solicitation.
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
207 WEST 79TH STREET BOUTIQUE UPPER WEST SIDE LIVING By Daniel J. Bollinger
he newly constructed 207W79 is a ground-up boutique condominium offering 19 residences from two-tofive bedrooms including two townhouses and one penthouse. Developed by Anbau, with interior and exterior architecture by Morris Adjmi, there are a host of nods to pre-war architecture and classic design details that distinguish the Upper West Side. The richly textured façade with historic detailing contextually fits with its surroundings; like the façade’s handcrafted terracotta panels that rise to the Art Deco inspired cornice detailing at the building’s crown. Nestled between Amsterdam and Broadway, residents of 207W79 are surrounded by some of the best shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in the city. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 73
Rooftop
THE RESIDENCES
Bath
All units feature smart layouts with oversized room proportions and windows throughout. Light, space, and air earn high marks with grand layouts and plenty of oversized windows, particularly in the full floor residences with 50-foot long great rooms centered on a gas-burning fireplace. Views throughout showcase quiet tree-lined streets on the lower levels and vast views of Manhattan on the upper floors. Couple that with oversized bedrooms to match the grandeur, as well as luxurious design details, custom fixtures, and a choice of materials, well, there’s little doubt you’ll soon be calling this home. Kitchens Great design details in the kitchens at 207W79 include integrated oak cabinets by Pedini in a beautiful warm brown tone with no pulls. The simple lines on the cabinet façades with beveled cutouts acting as pulls is quite sleek while the backsplashes and counters are all single slab Calacatta marble. The high-quality kitchen package with Wolfe, Miele, and Sub-Zero appliances comes standard. I like the marble shelf above the range with an extendable Miele vent (which vents out). There are plenty of outlets along the entire backsplash. The island is enormous with a breakfast bar, and there are two sinks in the kitchen, one oversized thick stainless steel, and another smaller utility sink. Baths The master baths have curated design details including radiant heat floors artistically designed with white marble and porcelain inlay in a beautiful empire pattern. There is a high niche factor with some elegant niches in the wet room and tub area. The deep soaking tub scores high marks as it is a custom “Henry” tub from Waterworks. The custom medicine cabinets are also Pedini and have a beveled mirrored façade and are double-mirrored inside. Custom light fixtures, a large wet room with a rain shower head, and floorto-ceiling Bianco Bello marble on all walls make for a truly luxurious master bath. One subtle detail that enhances the elegant feel of the space is the rounded marble edges on the vanity. Penthouse & More The penthouse features an immense great room with a large kitchen all with 10.5-foot ceilings. There are extraordinary river views from multiple balconies and rooftop spaces. The marble shelves of the penthouse kitchen are a glamorous addition. The boutique condo offering 207W79 features a selection of amenities including a 24-hour door attendant, a fitness center, children’s playroom, and storage. For more information on 207 West 79th Street, visit 207w79.com. • 74 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Kitchen
50 years of Family Traditions
Outer Banks Vacation Rentals & Real Estate Sales joelambjr.com • 800-552-6257
Come to Southern Columbia County - Enjoy the Peace and Quiet and Views! Less than two hours from NYC
86 Skyline Rd. Ancram,NY
Country Home on 33 Acres. Barn 120 Ft x 44 Ft. with loft and capacity to house 32 cars. $895,000.
65 County Route 8 Ancram,NY
Artists Retreat on 30 private acres. Panoramic views from every room. Architecturally appealing. Designed and soundly built with many unique custom touches. $695,000.
More properties and photos at WWW.LIBBYMCKEE.COM Libby McKee, CNE2, CBR, SRES Luxury Collection Specialists | Zillow Premier Agent 2015-2018 Five Star Professional C: (518) 755-0457 lmckee@bhhsblake.com
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
101 WEST 78TH STREET UPPER WEST SIDE LUXURY By Daniel J. Bollinger
ocated across from the American Museum of Natural History on Columbus Avenue and West 78th Street is the boutique condo offering, 101 West 78th Street. GTIS Partners and interior designer Stephen Sills worked together to restore this historic (circa 1886) eight-story building into an exquisite residential condo consisting of 21 units, which range in size from twoto-five bedrooms, including one penthouse. Stephen Sills is a bespoke designer whose specialty is re-designing historic buildings into contemporary masterpieces. Sills is on Architectural Digest’s AD 100 list of top designers and has been recognized in the magazine’s 30 Deans of American Design. The building is located in a coveted location one block from Central Park and near all shops and cultural institutions which the Upper West Side provides.
THE RESIDENCES The interiors embody luxury with coffered ceilings 10.5-feet high throughout units including the kitchens, bedrooms, and studies. This address offers all unique layouts, but specific themes run through all of them. Bedrooms All bedrooms have en-suite baths; wide windowed hallways are standard and large proportioned rooms with oversized solid wood doors match the design. There are a number of restored gas fireplaces with beautiful mantels. There is a duplex with a beautiful master bedroom that is quite oversized with windows galore, and unit 8A has some unique characteristics including a huge kitchen, widewindowed hallways, and a fireplace. 76 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Bedroom
Kitchens Elegantly designed by Stephen Sills, and working directly with Smallbone of Devizes, kitchens feature integrated cabinets and a full Miele appliance package. Glass front upper cabinets, a stainless-steel vent, and pot filler give this kitchen an elegant, balanced style, with single slab full-height backsplashes and counters of white Carrara honed marble. Some subtle design features that stand out are a total of two sinks in kitchens including a secondary wet bar sink. The solid oak drawer interiors have dovetailed joints, and the aged brass and polished nickel hardware are excellent accents to the light color palette. The aesthetics are successful and also functional, as the kitchen is laid out in a highly efficient manner that befits a chef.
Kitchen
Baths Master baths exhibit equal elegance with snow white honed marble, custom white smoke lacquer vanities, and Waterworks fixtures. Huge mirrored custom medicine cabinets offer plenty of storage. The wet room has marble seating. Most of the master baths are windowed. The secondary bathrooms even deserve mention. Look for neutral beige toned Blue de Savoy honed marble countertops and tub contrast with white wisp marble tile shower walls and Carrara marble herringbone patterned floors. Large mirrored custom medicine cabinets with wooden frames gently match the beige hue. The classic white master baths compared to the neutral beige-hued secondary baths provide different and unique palettes. Bathroom
Living Room
RECAP The amenities featured in this boutique offering include a 24-hour door attendant, children’s playroom, fitness center, package room with cold storage, and private storage lockers. The location is superb, the building is landmarked, light/air/flow get high marks with high ceilings ranging up to 10’6,” and the building has plenty of windows (even in hallways and master baths). As Stephen Sills said, “We have taken advantage of this building’s great bones and re-designed the interiors to create refined, modern homes with beautiful classical elements and proportions.” For more information on 101 West 78th Street, visit 101west78.com. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 77
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
EVGB
EAST VILLAGE’S GREATEST BUILDING By Daniel J. Bollinger
VGB—which stands for East Village’s Greatest Building—is a new luxury rental development by Extell Development Company and comprised of 110 units from lofts to three bedrooms. Located on 14th Street between Avenues A and B in the East Village, EVGB is one block from the First Avenue L train station and steps away from all the trendy restaurants, bars, and shops. In addition to being ideally situated next to transportation and the best of the storied East Village, EVGB will be welcoming a new Target store Summer 2018. THE RESIDENCES Much time and effort were placed into perfecting the layouts, which were composed to rival modern, luxury condominiums, maximizing privacy and light, providing generously-sized walk-in closets, tall ceilings and large, insulated windows. Even the studio lofts have dedicated foyers, large walkin closets, and full-sized kitchens equivalent to the two bedroom apartments. Most residences are gallery style with bedrooms on opposite sides of the apartment with two full bathrooms, one featuring a wet room and the other a tub. Large custom medicine cabinets are standard in all baths with Porcelanosa tile, and Waterworks nickel fittings and residences come standard with Miele appliances as well as a Bosch washer/dryer. 78 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
All kitchens offer the developer’s signature Extell Choice of two different color palettes with either dark toned or light toned kitchen cabinets. With integrated cabinetry, a Miele appliance package, open shelving design details, and glass-paneled cabinetry, EVGB’s residences are unparalleled in the luxury rental market. Another element that sets the development apart is its ample private outdoor spaces with gracious balconies and garden backyards. Out of the 110 apartments, 52 feature private outdoor spaces (ten of which offer up to 1,200 square foot landscaped backyards managed by Extell).
AMENITIES EVGB offers rentals crafted to the caliber of a luxury condominium with more amenity space per residence than any other rental building in Manhattan. EVGB features an impressive collection including one of the rarest offerings for a rental or condo offering: A 50-foot salt water two-lane lap pool with locker rooms and a steam room. There is a bi-level fitness center with a collection of state of the art machines, kettlebells, and free weights. There is also a children’s room and a residents’ lounge with a bar and kitchen. Extell spared no expense with a 19,000 square foot resident roof deck which has everything including: lounging and entertainment areas, pergolas for shade and comfort, a Bocce court, al fresco dining areas with grilling stations, wet bar, and fire pits, an outdoor shower area, an outdoor screening area, and expansive views of Lower Manhattan. There is even an additional private workout space outfitted in specialized soft flooring for optimum comfort, a prime example of the level of detail that has gone into EVGB. To complement EVGB’s already impressive array of offerings, WTS, a spa, fitness and lifestyle consultancy, has been selected to coordinate the activity programming for all the amenity and spa services. Additional amenities include a bike room, package room, laundry room with oversized machines, 24hour doorman, and more. All units have an integrated video intercom system for communication with guests and the front desk for seamless interaction. Additionally, all units come with Alexa integrated into the building’s link system. Residents only need to ask, “Alexa, did any packages arrive for me today?” and they’ll receive an answer.
RECAP
Extell has given us the East Village’s “greatest building” with their new luxury rental development, EVGB. The condo-style apartments including gracious layouts, exceptional design details, outdoor spaces, and a grand host of amenities make this rental building the home to reside. For more information on EVGB, visit rentevgb.com. •
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REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
D’ORSAY CHELSEA CHIC By Daniel J. Bollinger
dellco, Hill West Architects, and Jacques Garcia have teamed up to give us the d’Orsay, a boutique luxury condo offering 21 residences from one to four bedrooms including a townhouse and penthouse. Located on the Chelsea side of 14th Street at 7th Avenue the location is superb. There has been a transformation of this area of 14th Street with new high-end retail, fine dining, and culture. It is also close to the Meatpacking District and Union Square. INTERIORS In this 11-story development, we have loft-style units with lovely open layouts (kitchen/dining/ living rooms). Most units offer direct access from the elevator. Ceiling heights range from 9’3” to 14”. Large casement style windows allow for great light in the residences and have a higher sound attenuation rating than required code, so the spaces are tranquil. Above the 6th floor, there are fantastic views of Downtown Manhattan, Hudson Yards as well as splendid water views. Many units have outdoor spaces, and some units have gas fireplaces. The kitchens have light warm-hued integrated cabinetry with high-end appliances including Bosch, Sharp, and Liebherr with signature fixtures. Larger units come with a wet bar in the kitchen. The Bosch washer/dryer is a standard feature in all units. The master baths have the floor to ceiling marble on all walls, a wet room with rain shower head and a nice “niche” factor. The deep soaking tub is encased in marble, and the custom medicine AMENITIES amenities at cabinet is beautiful with outlets inside making the Exceptional baths exquisite with simple, subtle lines. Signature d’Orsay include a 24-hour doorman, full time super/ fixtures also grace the master baths. porter, and a 2,000-squareThe penthouse unit is exceptional with a wall of foot fitness center with a windows facing south with a long terrace. Even skylight. Also, included is spa the kitchen enjoys this wall of windows as it is with plunge pool, steam room part of the open layout. There is a fireplace in the and treatment room, resident great room with a wet bar. The penthouse rooftop lounge, common rooftop for outdoor space has a kitchen, another gas fireplace, residents with barbecue, bike and has a reinforced section that can support a hot storage, cold storage, and additional storage for purchase. tub if the owner wants one.
80 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
RECAP
The d’Orsay is a great new offering by Adellco and Hill West Architects. Jacques Garcia has done an excellent job with the open interiors and design details. The location is perfect, and light and views score high marks with oversized casementstyle windows. For a boutique offering, there are a host of excellent amenities, and excellent flow in the layouts. This is a development to keep in mind. For more information on the d’Orsay, visit thedorsay.com. •
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REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
AROUND TOWN
A LOOK AT GREENWICH VILLAGE By TJ Johnson
ounterculture movement, artist haven, and Bohemian capital. These phrases have been used to describe Greenwich Village at one point or another. While there is still no shortage of art, off-Broadway plays, and jazz clubs, Greenwich Village has become ranked as one of the highest price-per-square-foot areas in New York City. The good news is, you definitely get what you pay for. Take a walk around Greenwich Village’s tree-lined streets and take in all the beauty the neighborhood has to offer. With several buildings being protected by historic designation, you will not have to worry about buying your dream co-op overlooking Washington Square Park and having a 40-story building obstructing your view five years later. So now that worry is out of the way, you can enjoy walking around your neighborhood taking in all that it has to offer.
AN URBAN OASIS One of my favorite spots and I’m sure many people’s favorite, is Washington Square Park. After finding a seat on a bench in the park, just sit back and experience all the vibrant energy of everybody who enters the park. From dog walkers, skateboarders, and the squirrels causing a ruckus, to visitors taking pictures of the famous arch, there is plenty to see. Naturally, taking in all this beauty and people-watching is work. And one must refuel at some point during the day. One of my favorites places is Il Mulino New York, located on 86 West 3rd Street. This is their flagship restaurant and has stood the test of time for over 30 years. It has continuously been one of the top-rated restaurants in the elite-dining scene. Serving classic Italian food with authentic preparations from Abruzzo, Italy, this is a must in Greenwich Village. 82 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Il Mulino
Another original restaurant that opened in Greenwich Village in 2000 is a restaurant called Blue Hill. Hidden three steps below street level, the restaurant occupies a landmark “speakeasy” just off of Washington Square Park. Owning a small farm in Upstate New York myself, I can relate to Blue Hill’s farm-to-table local food sourcing vibe. Dan Barber is one of the most amazing chefs. He creates a menu that coincides with whatever is at peak harvest on his farm in Westchester. Whatever the season may be, your taste buds will surely thank you after a meal here. If you are looking for a laid-back atmosphere with great food, then head to North Square Restaurant. Their approach to seasonal American food inspired by world traditions and local ingredients makes a fun, delicious menu. Nothing beats heading over to North Square on a Sunday and enjoying their Jazz Brunch in the lounge.
VILLAGE BOUND?
ENTERTAINMENT THRIVES
Looking for more entertainment and things to do at night? One of my favorite places to go in Greenwich Village is the Comedy Cellar! Founded in 1982 and voted the best comedy club in NYC, you will see some of the best, famous comedians, as well as up and coming talent. Music time! If you are looking to hear some Jazz, you must swing by the Smalls Jazz Club and the Mezzrow Jazz Club. Featuring live jazz bands and jam sessions with great cocktails, they provide the quintessential jazz dive atmosphere that focuses on finding emerging stars. If you’re looking to see some legendary jazz musicians take stage, then you should check out the Blue Note Jazz Club located on 131 West 3rd Street.
Blue Note Jazz Club
If you’re looking to rent in Greenwich Village, you can find studio apartments ranging from $1,900 to $3,500, and one bedrooms from $2,700 to $5,000. Looking for a 2 bedroom? They start at $4,000 and can go up to $12,000 per month. Prices are dependent on location, interior finish, and the building itself. If you are looking to purchase, on average you can find a one bedroom for $1 to $3 million, whereas two-bedroom apartments can range from $1.8 to $5 million. Again, these prices will vary based on square footage and interior finish. Looking for that prewar co-op in Greenwich Village? Then you should definitely take a look at the beautiful, prewar co-ops on Fifth Avenue, such as 1 Fifth Avenue. This building overlooks Washington Square Park and is also where Keith Richards owns a beautiful coop currently for sale. Perhaps you are looking for something new and trendy? Well, there’s a beautiful new condo building on 21 East 12 Street, or you could travel a bit West and check out The Greenwich Lane. It is a series of five apartment buildings and five townhouses at the former site of the St. Vincent’s Hospital. The buildings have several luxury condominiums and each has unique differences and various styles with a private outdoor space. Thelonious “TJ” Johnson is a licensed broker with Brown Harris Stevens, recently has teamed up with Ogden Starr, and enjoys sharing his tips on his favorite city. If you are looking for a residence in NoHo—or anywhere else throughout Manhattan—contact him for any of your buying or selling needs. Visit bhusa.com/real-estate-agent/thelonious-tj-johnson. •
Greenwich Village
TJ Johnson JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 83
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
SPOTLIGHT DOLLY LENZ By Daniel J. Bollinger
he is known as the “Queen of Real Estate” and for her civic and humanitarian achievements. Meet Dolly Lenz, one of the highest-producing residential brokers in NYC having sold more than $10 billion in property. A recent honoree at the Mount Saint Vincent 2018 Scholarship Tribute Dinner, Lenz was recognized for her personal, professional, and civic achievements which uphold the college mission: To foster an understanding of our common humanity, a commitment to human dignity, and a full appreciation of our obligations to each other. We had a chance to sit down with her and speak about real estate and, of course, her recent award. What is your outlook on the real estate market in 2018? Due to the low-interest rate environment, we’ve had an oversupply of new development construction in the high end of the market. This excess inventory will exert downward pressure on pricing until the inventory is absorbed. Once the supply-demand balance is restored, prices should go higher. Has Trump’s new tax plan affected any of your clients? Not yet. The tax plan negatively impacts those individuals residing in high tax states such as New York and California by eliminating the deductibility of local property taxes and income taxes on federal tax returns. I believe we need to go through at least one tax season for people to realize the exact impact these tax changes will have on their particular situation. What are your feelings about the stock market in 2018? We have lived in such a low-interest rate environment for so long that the supply/demand mechanism for valuing assets has been seriously impaired. Now that interest rates are beginning to normalize it should be interesting to see how asset values respond. I make no predictions suffice to say that increasing rates will provide a headwind for all markets—especially real estate. 84 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Dolly Lenz
Tell us about your award and the Mount Saint Vincent 2018 Scholarship Tribute? I am grateful and humbled to receive this recognition. When you meet and talk to the students at Mount Saint Vincent, you gain an appreciation for the profound impact the institution has had on their lives. I admire the outstanding work being done at the Mount and am honored to be associated with such a caring organization. I thank Pamela Newman, my fellow NY Police Athletic League Board Member, for her generous and thoughtful comments about me at the event and for initially introducing me to College President Charles Flynn. I found his remarks regarding the college’s mission to fill the void that sadly exists in our higher education system to be very moving and served to strengthen my conviction that the college is in excellent hands. Everyone knows the Queen of Real Estate, Dolly Lenz, but where did it all begin? My father was an immigrant from Spain, and my mother was born in Puerto Rico. We lived in the basement of a tenement building in the Bronx. My father was employed as a superintendent and worked at different buildings throughout the borough. He often took me with him to his job, and I enjoyed keeping him company and watching him work. I loved seeing new places and became curious about how other people lived. That early experience formed the basis that ultimately led to my passion for all things real estate.
Dolly Lenz with Mount Saint Vincent student Sparkel Gillis
Now that interest rates are beginning to normalize it should be interesting to see how asset values respond.
Do you feel this affected your involvement in charities and giving back? There have been so many people who have helped me throughout my life to become the person I am today: My parents, school teachers, and the wonderful people at the Police Athletic League who mentored me during my formative years. My deep sense of gratitude to all those who helped me has underpinned my desire to give back in every way I could. What other charities are you involved with? Aside from the Police Athletic League, I also counsel patients undergoing treatment for cancer-related illnesses. I am so proud of my daughter, Jenny, who has also decided to volunteer her time working with children diagnosed with cancer. What would you advise any future Dolly Lenz? Find what you love to do and if you can figure out a way to earn a living doing it then consider yourself fortunate. Also, if you want to find true and lasting happiness, be grateful for what you have and always give back. What’s one thing that nobody knows about you? Many people view me as a driven, no-nonsense celebrity mega-broker doing battle in the largest and most competitive real estate market on the planet. What they don’t see is my soft side which I inherited from my mother and has helped me raise my children with the same love and devotion. I also have an overwhelming weakness for frozen yogurt.
I am so proud of my daughter, Jenny, who has also decided to volunteer her time working with children diagnosed with cancer.
What’s your favorite restaurant in NYC and why? My favorite restaurant is Nobu. This would surprise my closest friends who happen to know I don’t eat sushi. But I dine there often for two simple reasons: The food is consistently superb and creative, and the level of service and attention to detail always impresses. For more information on Dolly Lenz Real Estate, visit dollylenz.com; for further details on how to contribute to Mount Saint Vincent, visit mountsaintvincent.edu. •
Dolly Lenz and daughter Jenny
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 85
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
DESIGNING WAYS
HOME ESSENTIALS WITH A MODERN TOUCH By Daniel J. Bollinger
e all know that person who eagerly awaits the debut of the latest in technology: a Smartphone, computer, any of those cutting-edge make-my-life-simpler tools. Guess what? It also applies to home décor. To make it easier for you (and them), we recently visited the Architectural Digest Design Show for the best innovations for consumers. What did we find? Products for the entire home that included everything from artful wall coverings to accessories for the bath and appliances for the kitchen and beyond. Read on for a roundup of products and appliances that beautifully blend design and high-tech.
GAGGENAU
BRIZO
400 Series Oven With its striking presence, this appliance’s strong character is emphasized by the use of selected materials such as solid stainless steel. Oven doors can be automatically opened with a single touch, making food preparation a breeze. The series uncompromisingly brings modern professional technology into the home kitchen. As an alternative to the 24-inch, the generous 30-inch width offers even more scope for individual cooking preferences. The control module with its TFT touch display ensures clear and intuitive operation. Info: gaggenau.com/us.
Litze™ Kitchen Collection Inspired by the revival of the arts and crafts movement, the new Litze™ Kitchen Collection by Brizo® melds a clean, contemporary sensibility with an artisanal touch. A true testament to shape and form, the collection features a simplistically beautiful bent tube spout rendered in three distinct shapes—Arc, Square or Angled—that can be paired with either the Knurled Lever or Industrial Lever handle. The collection’s versatility offers a range of configurations that are equally at home in modern, minimal environments or more industrial inspired spaces. Info:brizo.com.
STONE FOREST Workstation Farmhouse Sinks Stone Forest’s new collection includes the Wave Front Kitchen Sink and the Basket-Weave Pattern Farmhouse Sink. The Workstation sinks come with a range of accessory options, including a colander, cutting board, and drying rack. Both sinks are carved in Marble or Honed Basalt. The Wave Front Sink captures the dancing pattern of flowing water on its apron front carving while the delicate basket-weave on the front of Stone Forest’s Basket-Weave Farmhouse Sink made of Papiro Cream Marble brings a soft three-dimensional aspect to the product. Info: stoneforest.com. 86 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
BRENDA HOUSTON Mineral Wall Coverings The Fossil Collections are the newest addition to the Mineral Wall Coverings from Brenda Houston Designs. The papers are designed to complement Houston’s furniture collections with Bay Island Woodworks of hand-carved woods featuring inlaid fossils and minerals. Houston hand selects each fossil shown, her favorite is the piranha fossil over 165 million years old and creates designs which are then printed onto seagrass for the wall coverings. Priced by the square foot, each design is customized to the scale of the wall. Info: brendahouston.com.
SUB-ZERO & WOLF Cove Dishwasher Cove dishwashers, the newest brand from Sub-Zero and Wolf, include thoughtful features that meet their owners’ real needs. They are built to address the four pain points homeowners have with their dishwashers: cleanliness, drying, loading flexibility and sound. Cove ensures every dish and utensil emerges from the dishwasher spotlessly from its 43 jets, 3 spray arms, a four-stage water filtration system and 200+ cycle options. The Cove is engineered to adapt to the dishes you clean most with cycles that ensure bone-dry results and nearsilent operation. Designed with adjustable interiors, customizable exterior finishes Cove cleans to a higher standard. Info: subzero-wolf.com.
DRUMMOND Spittal Shower The Spittal Shower is a complete glassenclosed shower unit, which can stand magnificently in the middle of a bathroom, or even in a bedroom. The freestanding shower has a standard 8-inch shower head and hand shower attachment that provides a blissful all-over drenching. The cast iron shower tray comes in various finishes, including primed, ready to paint on site, painted in any color or polished and lacquered. The beautifully crafted shower is entirely freestanding and comes with a soap dish holder fitted in the glass for shower products. Info: drummonds-uk.com/ product/spittal-freestanding-shower.
FRANKE Chef Center The Chef Center reinvents how homeowners think about— and use—their sinks by creating an all-in-one prep and entertaining hub with the ability to provide new workspaces or make the sink virtually disappear when not needed. Thoughtfully engineered as a sleek yet highly functional product, the Chef Center elevates the kitchen sink beyond a place to wash dishes, transforming the sink into a multifaceted workstation with its innovative integrated ledges and custom-fit accessories. No detail—even the drain placement— was overlooked in the product design. Info: franke.com/us/en/ ks/stories/new-kitchen-ideas/chef-center.html. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 87
MONEY MATTERS
INVESTMENT CORNER DEBORAH J. HAMILTON, HAMILTON ADVISORS By Daniel J. Bollinger
eborah Hamilton is the president of Hamilton Advisors, an investment firm she and her late husband founded in 1980. Having started her career in 1972 at ISI Corporation—a large corporation managing mutual and corporate pension funds—she’s experienced as a securities analyst, portfolio manager, and has been instrumental in developing one of the first computerized bond analysis programs. Deborah has dealt in equities, fixed income, and more in her long tenure on Wall Street. New York Lifestyles had a chance to sit down with Deborah to learn about Wall Street’s ups and downs and how it’s affecting our world. Have you ever seen such volatility and uncertainty as what we’re experiencing today? We have certainly seen volatility and uncertainty in the past. I think this time it has really caught our attention because last year we had very little volatility and such a soaring stock market. Also, the numbers catch our attention. We are not really used to seeing 700 or 1000-point intra-day swings in the market such as we saw back in February and March. Even though as a percentage it is not all that significant, the sheer number is a bit shocking. Do you feel it is a combination of global politics and debt-credit causing this turbulence? I think it is a combination of a lot of things. Certainly, rising interest rates are a contributing factor after a decade of miserably low rates. How far this increase extends is yet to be seen but if it continues we could see an impact on earnings growth. I can remember a time when geopolitical events did impact the stock market. Now it seems as though the market reacts for a brief moment or barely reacts at all. And, we have had some pretty significant events recently. What actions have you taken for your clients in this climate? In anticipation of higher interest rates, we hold bonds with very short maturities most of which will mature in the next 12 months or so. We are cautiously maintaining equity levels at the moment. What do you see for the rest of 2018? Continued uncertainty. We have had a brief and fairly small correction this year. On the positive side, corporate balance sheets and cash levels have never been better. Corporate taxes have been slashed. On the other hand, if the Fed continues to raise rates we could see downward pressure on the markets. At some point, Federal and State deficits will need to be addressed. As always, there are a lot of cross currents making this a very interesting and challenging business. Has the new Trump tax plan affected your investing or investors in any way? Deborah Hamilton (left) and friends Not really. I think most of us really won’t know the impact on our tax situations until we file next year. For those of us who live in states with high income and property taxes, the $10,000 deduction limit will definitely have an impact. We will have to see how that all plays out. NYC real estate, historically, is a great hedge against inflation, it is one of the most secure harbingers’ of wealth, and NYC real estate always bounces back from a dip. What are your thoughts? I grew up in a family that invested in real estate so that has always really been my first love. I can always remember my mother telling me that I should always own real estate and certainly NYC real estate is a great place to be. It has had a great run like the stock market so some kind of pull back is to be expected. What opportunities are you seeing in today’s market? There is tremendous opportunity out there with so many industries still in their infancy. We are really witnessing a dramatic sea change in the way we live now. Think of robotics, artificial intelligence, the revolution in medicine, the way we communicate, shop and pay for things. It is all very exciting and offers great opportunity. What is your favorite restaurant in NYC? It’s hard to pick a favorite because there are so many great restaurants in New York. We all like to be entertained so I find myself returning to the ones that have a fun atmosphere with an interesting clientele along with great food and service. . and those that can make a good Martini! For more information on Hamilton Advisors, visit hamiltonadvisors.com. • 88 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
MONEY MATTERS
AUDI: RENT OR OWN THE CHOICE IS SIMPLE By Jenny Peters
liding into the cockpit (aka the “driver’s seat”) of an Audi R8 V10 Spyder convertible may make you swoon, especially if you are a true car lover. For that spectacular new vehicle – the convertible element, at least, is brand new – is designed for those who love to drive. The R8 V10 Spyder convertible isn’t designed to be a family car nor a vehicle to haul bicycles, kids or furniture. No, this is one of the world’s ultimate driving machines: a sleek, superfast automobile that will make you happy to be alive. The 2018 version features a 532-HP V10 engine—unless you feel the need for speed. If so, go for the version that boasts 602 horsepower, but be prepared to pay up if you get caught going 100 mph! The Spyder’s top speed is 198. We’d advise a trip to the track to try to push it that far.
SMOOTH & QUIET
GETTING PERSONAL
The beauty of any Audi is the smooth ride that the company’s German engineers have built into all their vehicles. With the top down on an R8 Spyder, you’ll hear the growl of that 398 LB-FT torque loud and clear, but with the top up and windows closed, the car slips quietly down the road, which means finding the speedometer at close to 100 isn’t hard to do.
Exclusively renting silver Audi A4 sedans and Q5 SUVs, Silvercar is all about a personalized experience, with rates varying as to the market you rent in. So in New York City, for example, the fully loaded A4 (Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, ski racks, child car seats, etc.) goes for $69 to $159 per day; a Q5 for $89 to $179 depending on where and when you pick it up.
The Audi R8 V10 Spyder has a hefty price tag, starting at $175,100, which also includes racy 19-inch aluminum wheels, LED headlights and a-rockin’ Bang & Olufsen sound system, so owning this gem in the big city means finding a reputable garage to keep it safe, too. And if owning an Audi isn’t in your life plan, there’s still a way to enjoy the sleek, smooth feel of one of their luxury vehicles. Check out Silvercar, the Audionly premium car rental company with 21 locations around the U.S.A., including ones in Manhattan (River Place at West 42nd Street) and Brooklyn (on Myrtle Avenue and also at the McCarren Hotel).
With Silvercar service, you use a mobile app from start to finish, from booking the car to returning it, even communicating with the rental office via text message. We checked it out after landing at San Diego Airport recently—most of the Silvercar locations are close to airports, including Newark International—and the experience is seamless. Prices outside of New York are even more reasonable for a true luxury car experience starting at $49 per day. Driving the Audi A4 on Southern California’s freeways was a snap, especially with built-in elements like the side-assist mirror indicators that light up (and beep, too, if you try to move into a lane that is already occupied) to tell you that there’s a vehicle sneaking into your blind spot. That alone is a feature that comes in very handy both on the freeway and on crowded city streets. And the Audi A4 is so quiet, moving swiftly and effortlessly across the pavement, that you can actually forget you are in a 190-hp turbocharged car that is hurtling along the highway. Both the A4 and the Q5 are perfect for all that transporting of bicycles, kids or furniture that the R8 Spyder convertible disdains; so perhaps the answer to having it all is to own a Spyder for the fun times and rent the A4/Q5 when reality intrudes?
Audi R8 V10
For more information on Audi, visit audiusa.com. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 89
HEALTH & WELLNESS
SUN, SKIN & SUMMER YOU MIGHT SAY, “BUYER, BEWARE!” By Ruth J. Katz
r. Ellen Marmur, a board-certified dermatologist, is a walking advertisement for her own services: She has flawless, ageless (and enviable) skin. Patients might well declare, as director Rob Reiner’s mother emphatically stated (in that famous restaurant scene where she was a diner) in When Harry Met Sally, “I’ll have what she’s having.” However, Marmur is not just a pretty face. Like many of her patients, she is a skin cancer survivor, having personally experienced two basal cell carcinomas and one very early melanoma. Her personal experience and her passion for dermatology led her to establish Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!, an organization that raises funds for the American Academy of Dermatology’s SPOT Skin Cancer campaign by literally hiking. She is very proud of the fact that the organization has raised $750,000 and has provided free skin-cancer screening exams for thousands. Her Team Ellen summited Mount Kilimanjaro in 2014 and will hike Denali (formerly Mount McKinley) in Alaska in July.
SKIN DEEP In addition to maintaining her practice, with two Upper East Side locations and three other staff physicians, she is an associate clinical professor in the Department of Dermatology as well as in the Department of Genomics and Genetic Sciences at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. She is an experienced clinical researcher, specializing in genomic analysis of the effects of sun exposure and aging on skin. During the nine years, she spent as vice chair of Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology at Mount Sinai, she established the Skin Cancer & Anti-Aging Biobank, the first of its kind. Today, her practice focuses on both cancer and cosmetic dermatology. In addition to her work with patients, Marmur has headed several research studies, with a focus on skin cancer prevention and anti-aging treatments. And in her “spare time,” she authored Simple Skin Beauty: Every Woman’s Guide to a Lifetime of Healthy, Gorgeous Skin. New York Lifestyles sat down with her recently to discuss skin cancer and caring for your skin, especially during the summertime. 90 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Because skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, how often should we be checking our bodies? Most skin cancers are completely curable when caught and treated early, so you should get a full body check at least once a year with a board-certified dermatologist. More than three million cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed this year, and one out of every five Americans will develop some type of skin cancer over a lifetime. For this reason, you need to do a monthly self-check, as well, looking for changes to your skin. Tell us more about the alarming increase in melanoma. It is likely that over 90,000 cases of melanoma will be diagnosed this year and it is, indeed, on the rise. The chances of getting it increase with age. Sadly, we are also seeing a rise in pediatric melanoma. If you see something suspect on an infant or child, I recommend a visit to a dermatologist who knows more about skin cancer than a pediatrician. Melanoma most commonly peaks in young men in their 40s and very often it is found on their backs, a place they cannot easily view. In women, it is most commonly found on the legs, as mine was, on my knee. Rates of skin cancer have doubled in younger women. We know that indoor tanning and sunburns are avoidable risk factors. Melanomas are not confined, however, to areas that are exposed to the sun. They can form inside the eye, too, so wear sunglasses. What about the other two skin cancers we hear so much about— basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas? There are five kinds of basal cell carcinoma: [1] It might appear as a pink pimple that never quite goes away. [2] It might look like a little brown patch that is a bit flaky on the face. [3] It may appear to you as a scar, but when you think about it, you realize you have no reason to have a scar in that area. [4] It can look like a little ulcer that keeps bleeding. [5] And finally it might look like a rash, like eczema. Basal cell cancers mimic many normal skin conditions, but if the problem persists longer than three weeks, see your dermatologist. Squamous cell carcinoma starts out like pink sandpaper, very commonly on the head, neck, or hands. It can get crustier, turn pinker, and then scab. You may think you scraped your skin a little bit, and it may be a little scaly and dry. They get more common as we age, and they have the potential to metastasize.
A NEW LOOK NeoCutis, a Swiss company, launched 10 years ago with just one beauty product. The creation was an extension of its medical line, which had been created to benefit burn victims, helping their wounds heal more quickly. Ultimately, that formula for patients was tweaked and the anti-aging NeoCutis line was born. Now the company has debuted a more advanced line of skin care products, all featuring its proprietary micro-protein complex (MPC), an antiaging formula. A must-have is MICRO·DAY Rejuvenation Cream which provides broad-spectrum sun protection with an advanced formula that’s gentle on your skin. Crafted with potent additives like green tea and hyaluronic acid, this creamy formula diminishes wrinkles and free radical damage. For more information on NeoCutis, visit neocutis.com. Also available at dermastore.com.
Office Front
Office Reception
Do you recommend sunblock all the time and do you have favorite products you recommend? It takes a minute to button a shirt or put on sunblock. UVA/UVB rays are both equally bad and cause damage, and their effect is cumulative, so the harm caused by baking in the sun as a teenager cannot be erased. I like the ISDIN Ultralight Emulsion and also EltaMD sun care products. There is evidence now that the higher the SPF, the better. For a while, it was felt that nothing over 30 or 50 could offer more protection, but now there is evidence to the contrary. And to reverse some of the effects of sun damage, we use several different types of lasers and photodynamic therapy for diverse problems. You’re also devoted to cosmetic dermatology. Tell us a little about that aspect of your practice. What I love about working in both of these areas is that while they seem opposite, they are truly intimately connected specialties. I could have someone come in to address dark circles under the eyes and when I get close to inspect the problem, I see a basal cell cancer. And the opposite is true of people who come here for skin cancer treatment. When they relax after the cancer treatment, they often think of a cosmetic procedure to feel a little better. My practice is known for the gentle and natural application of fillers and neurotoxins; less is more. Do you have final advice for our readers? No one has skin just like yours and since it is with you for life, remember it needs your help to stay healthy and radiant. Fo r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o n D r. E l l e n M a r m u r , v i s i t marmurmedical.com. © 2018 Ruth J. Katz All Rights Reserved • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 91
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
DO YOU EVER FEEL GUILTY? Dr. Peter Kalellis
ould you say something about guilt? My name is Monica; I come from a very Catholic home. Since childhood, any small thing that I did, my mother’s voice resonated, “Shame on you. How could you do such a terrible thing? At a seminar I was conducting in Cleveland, Ohio, Monica wanted to know about guilt. Like her, many people who come to see me for therapy suffer from this insidious feeling we call guilt. It took courage for her to reach out and inquire about guilt. “I’m approaching my thirties,” she added, “and still feel guilty even about small things. It seems that my entire life is stifled by feelings of guilt.”
You’re more than all the mi stake s you’ve made.
FORGIVE YOURSELF Another reason could stem from feeling insecure or not good enough. So when someone says something negative your emotions react to your inner doubts rather than what’s real. One thing you can do is to figure out that particular area in yourself that needs to be rectified. Sometime in your life, you’re going to come across those people who are absolute experts at making you feel guilty. This could be an intimate friend, or your own parent or spouse or child or sibling. Be aware and ask yourself, what is the real issue that is making you feel guilty? Sometimes, it can be that it brings up a past event where you felt guilty because you hadn’t done something then or you had done something wrong. Instead of just remembering the guilt of the past, forgive yourself and respond to the situation with a guiltless feeling.
FALLING SHORT
ELIMINATE THOSE FEELINGS
Children who were chastised by strict parents or parenting adults usually have developed a reservoir of guilt feelings. In some cases, such sensitivity to guilt manifests serious problems in their adult life. Sometimes it causes passivity, boredom, and lack of interest to move forward in life.
Very often guilt comes from trying to avoid something. You don’t want people to be mad at you; you don’t want to let someone down, you don’t want anyone to be upset because you did something offensive. To eliminate those feelings of guilt, it really helps if you can take a moment and ask yourself, what are you thinking about? Thoughts precipitate feelings. Once you realize how your thoughts affect you, you challenge your views and you try to change them. Soon after you have replaced those guilt-evoking thoughts, the feeling of guilt will fade away. A primary reason for your guilt can be that you don’t allow yourself to make mistakes Suppose that your best friend was rushed or you never forgive yourself for things to the hospital, thinking he might have had that happened in the past. Everyone makes a heart attack. For whatever reasons, you mistakes. Every single person on this planet did not go to the hospital immediately to does, but for some reason, some people hold see him. You went two days later, and you themselves up to a higher standard and think found another person visiting your friend. they should be immune from that. Making Suddenly, you sense a discomforting mistakes is what makes individuals human. feeling, guilt. I should have visited my Even when things at first go wrong, later you friend three days ago, what’s wrong with may realize what tremendous benefits you me, you said to yourself, and felt guilty. You gained from going through the experience. realize that such an inference implies that It’s not always easy to appreciate your you are trying to avoid being seen as an mistakes, but they honestly can end up being uncaring friend by not visiting your friend the most incredible learning opportunities or earlier. But something good may come out the catalysts that end up causing considerable of your delayed response. Such an incident leaps in mental and spiritual growth. might make you aware that you want to be a better friend. Why not accept your limitations that you are a human being. Just watch your behavior, let go of negative thoughts and choose not to feel guilty. No matter what people think of you, or your parents, or your friends, you are a son or a daughter of God and you were created out of love. Feel free, whole and wonderful, and be grateful to God for His blessings in your present life. •
All people are flawed. Every human being that walked on this planet, one time or another has done something wrong. There may be events mostly in your past that you regret, or things you should have done but failed to do. But a tinge of guilt can actually be beneficial leaving you with a lesson. When your actions fall short of moral standards or violate the concept of fairness, a touch of guilt may wake the better part of you to think wisely and act appropriately. You know the feeling you get when you experience guilt: a bit like butterflies in the stomach, maybe shortness of breath, perhaps even light-headedness. Treat the symptoms as a definite warning sign for you to practice removing guilt from your daily life. As soon as you get that tinge of guilt, repeat the following statement a few times: Under the circumstances, I did the best I could do with the time, skills and resources I had available to myself, but I have learned my lesson from this experience.
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 93
HEALTH & WELLNESS
PAMPERING POP
PREMIER SPAS OFFER DECADENCE FOR DAD By Jeremy Murphy
ucumbers under the eyes. Mud masked around the mug. Cashmere slip-ons cuddling the toes. Is that dad? Forget the metrosexual: spa treatments are all the rage with even the manliest of men, from the Wolfs of Wall Street to the Frat Boys at Five Guys. In fact, 49 percent of all spa-goers now bring a Y chromosome to their reservations, according to The International Spa Association. So, this Father’s Day, eschew the heinous day-on-the-links gift card or Hammacher Schlemmer gadget and give dad some much-needed “me” time—on a massage bed. There are dozens of spas throughout NY that cater especially to men, whether it’s a seaweed wrap, sea salt scrub or manly stretch. And so, in that spirit, New York Lifestyles put on our softest spa voice to brave the deepest exfoliation and reflexology to bring you this under “face cradle” investigation.
RETREAT… AHHH, REPEAT WHERE The Peninsula Spa at The Peninsula Hotel New York W HAT A t h re e -hour “Me n’s Retreat” into the deepest echelons of escapism, pending you have $800 (not including tip) to spare. A therapeutic Deep Tissue massage and “skinspecific Men’s Purifying Facial” are complemented by a shoulder and scalp treatment designed to suit men’s skin care needs and release tight muscles and tension. The treatments are capped off with a “cuisine lunch” atop the Peninsula roof-top patio, and access to its pool and fitness center.
Peninsula MBR Facial Massage Envy
Info: newyork.peninsula.com/en/spawellness.
STRETCH IT TO THE LIMIT WHERE Massage Envy (locations throughout NYC) WHAT The hour-long “Streto Method”—a customizable, assisted treatment was created to “relax your mind as your body is stretched.” The treatment increases flexibility and improves mobility. Shoulders, arms, thighs, legs—every part of the body is accessed and finessed by trained therapists whose mastery of the body and muscles will give dad a layer of comfort. And, take note: a Father’s Day Promo runs from May 28th runs through June 17th. Info: massageenvy.com. 94 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
THE HOLY GRAIL WHERE Cornelia Spa at The Surrey Hotel WHAT A two-hour treatment called “The Purist” envisioned by Cornelia owners Ellen Sackoff and Rick Aidekman, with an assist from chemist Jack Ventimiglia that detoxifies, cleanses and hydrates the body. A taste of honey sets the mood for the journey, which begins with exfoliation by a Lavender infused towel, then application of Shea Butter and Cypress Oil to soothe and hydrate the body. This is followed by a Slimming Wrap, which detoxifies the body with an abundance of trace minerals and vitamins. Next comes a warm bath infused with Detoxifying Mineral Salts, ginger, lemon, dandelion and wild marjoram to further flush out toxins, capped off with a light application of Firming Crème of algae balm, mint, lemon, and lavender. Info: thesurrey.com/spa.
Cornelia Spa at The Surrey
BEING GENTLE WITH THE MEN
Mandarin Oriental New York Wellness pool
WHERE The Mandarin Oriental Hotel New York WHAT A “Gentlemen’s Retreat” provides a full menu of treatments that begins with a 20-minute “Quintessence Body Scrub” blending Mandarin Oriental’s Signature Body Oil—infused with essences of tropical ginger, frankincense, and mandarin—with organic, mineral-rich sea salt. Next up is a 50-minute Therapeutic Massage, followed by a 50-minute Men’s Focus Facial which consists of a two-part exfoliation system to remove dead skin cells while vitamins, minerals, peptides and botanical extracts improve tone, texture and address irritation associated with shaving, all while combating the visible signs of aging skin. Info:mandarinoriental.com/new-york.
A LA CARTE FROM THE HEART WHERE La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Central Park WHAT The “For the Gentlemen” menu is filled with indulgences for dad, accented by La Prairie’s signature Cellular technology that infuses all its products. A “Gentlemen’s Facial” includes a 3-minute Cellular Peel (which eliminates congestion and skin impurities), while standard pedicures, manicures, and massages make sure dad can get all the goods during his day-long retreat. Info: ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/new-york/central-park. •
La Prairie Ritz
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 95
FOOD & DRINK
RESTAURANT ROUNDUP HERE’S TO DAD By Patricia Canole
ive the man of the house a break from the barbecue this Father’s Day and take him out for brunch, lunch or dinner. We’ve rounded up the best places to take him to dine, from eateries featuring steaks and more. PATSY’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT This favorite West 56th Street eatery is simple elegance and warmth—made famous by Ole Blue Eyes himself, Frank Sinatra—and operated by the Scognamillo family. But what makes it a lasting NYC institution is not so much the celebrity clientele, but the food. This is where they know how to make red sauce—from marinara to pizzaiola. According to third-generation Chef Sal Scognamillo, many guests love all things stuffed including the Veal Rollatini Marsala with mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano and prosciutto and mushrooms or the Trio of Ravioli - Lobster, Spinach and Mushrooms each served with a distinctive sauce. A big hit is the Stuffed Artichoke filled with a mixture of garlic, bread crumbs, Gaeta olives, capers, and anchovy. Make sure Dad orders the signature Veal Meatballs and Spaghetti—a genuinely unforgettable dish. Chef Sal re-created his grandfather Patsy’s recipe for the dish and considered by many to be tender and flavorful. Served with a simple tomato and basil sauce, it’s a Number 1 in our book. Other entrees include Striped Bass Marechiare in a light garlic sauce with tomato and white wine. Or perhaps the Chicken Pizzaiola with Mushrooms and Peppers served in marinara sauce (hot cherry peppers are optional) will score points. Be sure to toast the man of the hour with a fine wine. The varietals are impressive and reasonably priced. Info: patsys.com. 96 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Patsy’s Italian Restaurant
UNCLE JACK’S STEAKHOUSE This classic restaurant, which has been open since 1996, cultivates the atmosphere of a venerable New York institution—mahogany bar, pressed-copper ceiling, speakeasy décor. We visited the flagship Uncle Jack’s Bayside restaurant (there are two outposts in Manhattan and a recently opened Uncle Jack’s Meat House in Astoria.) Start off with a toast to Dad with the handcrafted cocktail or the popular Big Red Bloody Mary (it’s potent!). Then order a selection of appetizers for the table including “Lollipop” Lamb Chops sprinkled with bread crumbs, garlic, and rosemary; Bluepoint Oysters; and a delicious Buffalini Mozzarella in a balsamic reduction sauce. There’s more to come. Porterhouse is the specialty, but there’s also the Prime Rib, as well as the Filet Mignon. Don’t forget the sake-massaged Kobe beef which will melt in your mouth. All meats are cooked perfectly, the char exactly even on both sides. And be sure to ask for the house-made Jack’s 21 sauce. Of course, indulge in a few sides that include Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Sauteed Mushrooms, and Truffle-Roasted Cauliflower.
Uncle Jack’s Steakhouse
There are plenty of seafood and chicken options as well. One standout is the Build Your Own Surf & Turf which includes Prime Filet or NY Strip with your choice of Brazilian Lobster Tail, Shrimp Scampi or Crab Oscar. And for those wanting to brunch instead, there are plenty of tasty options. Try the Lemon & Mascarpone Pancakes with Maple Syrup and the B.F.F. Steak & Eggs (any style you wish) served with Rustic Hash and Salsa Verde Herb Salad. Whether it’s a brunch or dinner, end the feast with the delectable Apple Strudel or the favorite New York Cheesecake, which is “old school”—meaning creamy and very dense. Info: unclejacks.com. MAMO
MAMO MAMO has all the ingredients to delight the palate and the eyes of its patrons. The décor features exposed brick, clean white lines, oversized vintage movie posters and a beautifully designed marble bar. Sister to the renowned eatery located in Antibes in the French Riviera, MAMO—named for its owner Herve “MAMO” Mammoliti—is famous for its array of international celebrities and is one of the hottest spots during the Cannes Film Festival. Actor Leonardo DiCaprio, Beyonce, and Jay-Z are among the regular patrons at both the Antibes and New York locations. MAMO New York is under the watchful eye of Herve’s son, Michael. The incredible menu is curated by Executive Chef Salvatore Marcello. Originally from Naples, Italy, Salvatore was born into a family of cooks and bakers, igniting his passion for food at an early age. Start off with Come a Capri (heirloom tomatoes, burrata, and basil) or Fiori di Zucca Ripieni e Fritti (stuffed zucchini flowers with tomato and mustard sauce). Continue your dining experience with an entrée of Petto di Pollo Arrosto con Verdure Alla Girglia (roasted chicken breast with grilled vegetables, balsamic and rosemary sauce). Or, if Dad is a seafaring kind of guy, he might like Orata Arrosto con Caponata Siciliana (roasted sea bass with Sicilian Eggplant Caponata). For those who want lighter fare, try one of the renowned pizzas such as its Foccacia al Tartufo with Parmesan, Cantal, and Truffle. Or, perhaps the thick juicy MAMO burger will do just fine. And be sure not to miss the velvety Tiramisu for dessert. MAMO also offers a selection of homemade cakes, such as the Torta di Meringa e Vaniglia and Torta al Cioccolato. Take advantage of the special Father’s Day three-course prix fixe dinner menu is offered Sunday through Monday 5:30 to 11:00 pm. Info: mamonyc.com. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 97
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FOOD & DRINK
THE NOMAD RESTAURANT AMERICAN CUISINE WITH A FRENCH ACCENT By Anne Raso
verything chef/restaurateur Daniel Humm touches seems to turn to gold. He is famous for putting his special self-proclaimed “simple touch” on Eleven Madison Park which he purchased from Danny Meyer, but he offers foodies an even more intimate setting at NoMad (situated in the lobby of the acclaimed Flatiron hotel of the same name). The NoMad’s atmosphere is dark and clubby but romantic at the same time—especially when you sit in the semi-secret side room that is favored by couples or guests who just want some privacy. One of Manhattan’s grandest fireplaces is located there and the corner banquets to either side of it allow for a great people watching view that reaches well into the main dining room. Fruits de Mer
A CELEBRATION OF FOOD The Swiss-born Humm favors foie gras, bone marrow. and truffles in many of his preparations and the Roast Chicken for Two stuffed with Truffles, Fois Gras, and Crumbled Brioche has become the stuff of legend. If you watch online videos of Humm preparing this signature dish at NoMad, he makes it look easy. But it is really an art to loosen the skin of a whole chicken, infuse the stuffing and then tightly truss it. This dish for two is pricey ($94) but is a runaway success and is now being copied by chefs at several other fine eateries. It is often served with Smoked Grits and Succotash for a bit of American flavor or a combo of Lentils, Brussels Sprouts and Cotechino for a bit of Continental flair. “Many people have memories of roast chicken dinner,” Humm said, “and we take that sense of nostalgia and elevate it into a decadent dish. It’s beautifully prepared, roasted in a wood-fired oven (which in turn fills the entire restaurant with a buttery scent), then presented tableside, still sizzling from the heat—it entices people. There was a similar popular dish at Eleven Madison Park in the early days, and people loved it so much they kept asking for it, and we wanted to give our guests what they desired.” JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 99
MORE SURPRISES
Another popular item on the menu is Filet Mignon with a Bone Marrow Crust as well as the Butter Poached Lobster, dubbed by Yelp! as “addictive.” You can order unusual items that are hard to get elsewhere such as White Truffles with Taglietelle (or Risotto) or Suckling Pig Confit with Red Endive, Onions, and Dates. There are plenty of seafood dishes that are of note, including Tuna Tartare with Black Olives, Onions, and Tomatoes, and grand trays of cold Fruits de Mer. Humm admits that his Swiss influences have slipped into the mix here and there. He reveals, “Most recently, on Sunday nights, NoMad Bar served a traditional fondue experience. The menu included pretzels, charcuterie, a fondue made with traditional cheeses and an Alpine drink, Schümli Pflümli. Nothing took me back to my childhood more than walking into NoMad Bar and getting hit with the scent of bubbling cheese.” Being intrigued by the restaurant experience, we asked Humm what exactly he considers Nomad’s restaurant theme to be. “I often refer to NoMad as seasonal American; perhaps the French influence comes from my training.”
NoMad Milk and Honey NoMad
New York Lifestyles wondered if there is any overlap of diners visiting Eleven Madison Park and NoMad since they are both establishments favored by diehard foodies. Chef Humm answered, “I see every guest as someone who appreciates great food, conversation and experience— we treat every guest as if they were family. A guest at Eleven Madison Park may only visit us once a year, but at NoMad they may come see us multiple times, for different experiences.”
SUMMER TOUCHES
Chef Humm promises great additions to the NoMad menu for Summer. He gave us a little preview: “We are a seasonal restaurant so Summer menus are always exciting, because that’s when produce is at its finest in New York State. There is a beautiful Artichoke and Gnocchi dish debuting on the summer menu that I am very excited about.” The affable Humm has stayed modest despite a huge list of culinary accomplishments that includes being the recipient of six James Beard Awards, operating Michelin-starred kitchens and being called “the best chef in the country and possibly the world” by Esquire Magazine last year. New York Lifestyles wanted to know what this culinary superstar considered his biggest accomplishments—and we limited him to three choices. Chef Humm humbly replied, “My top three accomplishments are my children.” Unlike most fine eateries, NoMad is also a lovely place for a truly creative and innovative breakfast that includes a very popular Duck Sausage, Egg, and Cheddar Cheese Breakfast Sandwich and some of Manhattan’s most popular Eggs Benedict. It is also fun to stop at NoMad just for dessert and coffee. Dessert listings often change but constants include the Coconut Cake with Toffee and Chocolate Cremeux and the Carrot Cake with Walnut Brittle and Pineapple Sorbet is divine. For more information on The NoMad Restaurant, visit thenomadhotel.com. • 100 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
FOOD & DRINK
RIOJA
SPAIN’S SOULFUL WINE PARADISE By Gretchen Kelly
here is a phrase in Spanish that is so full of meaning that it’s almost untranslatable. The phrase is duende: a word that means dark, meaningful, redolent of soul and significance. Although the word has come to signify the Southern Spanish culture of Flamenco, I found duende in the deep red wines of Spain’s wine growing region of Rioja where the earth is almost as blood red as the red varietal that grows here in abundance: the Tempranillo grape. This rough, stony red earth is found in all the three principal wine growing regions of La Rioja: Rioja Alavesa, Rioja Alta, and Rioja Baha. All are part of a protected designation of origin and all are as varied and ripe with flavor as the wines. After arriving in Madrid with some fellow wine lovers (including one wine expert who both looked and talked like Sideways’ film wine hero, Paul Giamatti), we took a short hop to the region by connecting to a flight to Bilbao, followed by an hour’s drive to the region’s capital of Haro. Although it is the capital of the region, Haro is smaller and more easily walkable than Rioja’s other major city, Logroño, an old historic town with its intimate city center.
BODEGA MUGAS WINERY Our first stop and our introduction to Rioja wine tasting was the Bodega Mugas Winery (bodegasmuga.com) one of the oldest and most esteemed wineries in the region. The Mugas family has lived in Haro for over 300 years but created the winery in 1932, moving it to an iconic 19th century complex of buildings just outside of town near a railway station. The complex is punctuated by a scalable bell tower from which you can see gold and green vineyards far into the horizon. In the winery complex itself, you may get a chance to taste Mugas wines with one of the family members who oversee every aspect of the business. You can also watch oak casks being toasted (and inhale that wonderful aroma) as Mugas is one of the only wineries in Rioja to make and repair its casks from French oak. Try to taste the vineyard’s iconic Prado Enea a deep, spiced wine that gets its gravitas from a late harvest of selected grapes plus aging in 16,000-liter oak vats for 12 months, followed by 36 months in both oak casks and bottles. 102 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
VIVACO MUSEUM OF WINE CULTURE After a night spent having dinner with Mugas wines in Haro’s Hotel Los Agustinos (hotellosagustinos. com), a converted convent with a welcoming cloister square we moved on to the Vivaco Museum of Wine Culture (vivancoculturadevino.es/en/foundation/ vivanco-museum-of-wine-culture/) the next day. The Museum is housed in a vast complex and adjacent vineyards with a well and where the current owner, Raphael Vivaco can be seen in a video lovingly extolling the region, its history, and its grapes. The complex is not as intimate as many of the wineries in the area but the museum is a worthwhile stop, and you can also walk the rows of grapes outside the museum complex, getting a feel for the rich earth that yields the Tempranillo grapes their rounded, full-bodied taste. Be sure to stop by the The Vivaco Restaurant with full-picture windows overlooking the vineyard. The menu is influenced by the region’s traditional love of pork: deeply fatted and flavorful and a perfect partner for Tempranillo.
EZCARAY
DAVID MORENO WINERY
Moving through the region to the town of Ezcaray on the banks of the River Oja, we checked into the Hotel Relais Chateau Echaurren a small gem of a hotel with views of the local Santa María la Mayor Church. It was a dubious delight I came to discover, as the church bells seemed to peal on the half as well as the full hour right outside the French doors of my room. Dinner at the Hotel’s two-Michelinstarred El Portal Echaurren, helmed by local chef Francis Paniego was a slowly evolving revelation of sensual delights paired elegantly with perfectly balanced regional wines and even local structural elements like vine wood used as dishes.
The next day we spent hours in the David Moreno Winery (davidmoreno.es/en/) in Badarán, first in a stone hut tasting room in the midst of the vineyard. Then we moved to the Moreno wine complex where we learned to stomp on grape vines in vats just like Lucille Ball did all those years ago in that iconic winemaking episode. This winery was built in 1981 when then engineer, Moreno, came back to his family town with a dream to develop a winery. The dapper gentleman in his signature Basque cap is still very much in evidence on a visit to the winery, where you’ll also find his grown children hosting tastings and tours. A short drive from the Moreno winery are the UNESCO protected sites of the Monasteries of Suso and Yuso: ancient sites with graves that date to the time of El Cid and with mountainside views of the local rocky landscape. The next day, we got a a bird’s-eye view of that landscape with an early morning balloon ride over Haro’s vineyards the next day, topped off with a Prosecco toast once the balloon had reached a high enough altitude that we actually saw the ghost of our balloon’s reflection in the clouds. Back on the ground, our wine tour ended in the lively town of Logroño where we reveled in tapas into the wee hours of the morning in the Calle Laurel, a street lined with so many tapas restaurants you feel that the night will never end. A reminder that in Spain, there is no curfew on the pleasure of wine, food and, of course, good company. •
JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 103
FOOD & DRINK
RAISING THE BAR
EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A GREAT COCKTAIL By Daniel J. Bollinger
ho doesn’t enjoy a cocktail? But where do you start? It’s mind-boggling sometimes just thinking of the hundreds of distilleries and thinking “which is the best choice?”With Father’s Day, Graduations and the Summer Season in full swing, why not make it local. The Empire State is home to distilleries with brands that are sure to make a great cocktail—any time of year. We turned to mixologist Michael Neff, who’s been bartending for more than 20 years—most of them at top NYC bars including Ward III, The Rum House and Holiday Cocktail Lounge. Neff is currently the proprietor of Church Bar and Cocktails in Brooklyn, as well as a couple far-flung watering holes: Inkwell in Omaha and the forthcoming The Cottonmouth Club in Houston.
WINNING COCKTAILS
Neff ’s all New York cocktail choice is the classic Gin & Tonic. His chosen base spirit is Brooklyn Gin (brooklyngin.com), which is actually distilled Upstate, in Warwick. “It’s a New Americanstyle gin, so not as juniper-forward as traditional London dry gins like Tanqueray,” Neff says. “It’s a light, perfectly springtime type of gin.” To pair with it, Neff likes Q Tonic Water (qdrinks. com). Cocktail geeks are probably familiar with the artisanal mixer brand, but few know that the company is headquartered in DUMBO. To finish off the G&T, he recommends “whatever fresh herbs you have on hand—tarragon, sage and mint are all great—and always a squeeze of lime.” Next up is the ultimate New York cocktail, The Manhattan and Neff suggests combining two local whiskies, Hillrock Estate Solera Aged Bourbon (hillrockdistillery.com), distilled in the Hudson Valley from corn grown onsite, and Mr. Katz’s Rock and Rye, a mix of rye whiskey with sugar and spices made by Brooklyn’s New York Distilling Company (nydistilling.com). While vermouth is typically imported from Europe, there’s a New York option: Atsby Vermouth’s Armadillo Cake Vermouth (atsbyvermouth.com) is made from Long Island wine and brandy from Upstate. For the indispensable bitters, Neff suggests Hella Aromatic Bitters (hellacocktail. co), another Brooklyn-made ingredient. “In my mind, Angostura is kind of impossible to beat in a Manhattan,” he says, “but whatever Hella’s secret sauce is, they make really good bitters.” •
RECIPES FOR SUCCESS Here, Michael Neff ’s recipes for the best cocktails in town. ALL-NEW YORK GIN & TONIC 2 oz. Brooklyn Gin 1 8 oz. bottle Q Tonic Water Fresh herbs and lime wedge to garnish Directions: Fill a highball glass with ice and add gin. Add tonic (you may not need the full bottle). Garnish with sprigs of fresh herbs and a lime wedge. ALL-NEW YORK MANHATTAN 1.5 oz. Hillrock Estate Solera Aged Bourbon .5 oz. Mister Katz’s Rock & Rye 1 oz. Atsby Armadillo Cake Vermouth 3 dashes Hella Aromatic Bitters Lemon or orange twist to garnish Directions: Add all the ingredients to a shaker and fill with ice. Stir and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon or orange twist. 104 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
THE EXTRAS
Of course, no bar is complete without the necessary glassware, tools and gadgets. Manhattan’s Cocktail Kingdom (cocktailkingdom.com) is one of the world’s finest resources for all things cocktails. Browse the astounding array of glasses, muddlers, ice molds and lots more. Best of all they ship everywhere. Two of Neff ’s favorite items are the Yarai Mixing Glass “It’s worth the money because you have a beautiful piece that sits on your home bar,” he says. And don’t forget the cheeky Gaz Regan Finger Stirrer molded from the real digit of a legendary New York bartender infamous for stirring Negroni’s with his finger.
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Lexington Bar and Books caters primarily to Upper East Side residents, their friends, and visiting guests. The dress code is strictly enforced; casual yet stylish proper attire is requested.
Lexington Bar and Books has a private salon that hosts a big screen TV and which can be used for private events of up to 50 guests.
Lexington Bar and Books Open daily: 5pm - 4am 1020 Lexington Avenue (212) 717-3902 @ 73rd Street, New York 10021 www.barandbooks.cz/lexington/
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON STAGE
Lily Rabe, Byron Jennings and Al Pacino in The Merchant of Venice ©Joan Marcus
THE PUBLIC THEATER By Lori Simmons Zelenko
veryone is an artist this Summer as The Public Theater essentially goes public creating a theater experience not only for the people but by the people with community members, New Yorkers from all five boroughs acting alongside the award-winning equity performers on stage. Five million people have spent Summer evenings under the stars watching more than 150 free productions of Shakespeare and other classical works and musicals at the Delacorte Theater since 1962. Conceived by founder Joe Papp, The Public’s Shakespeare in the Park makes excellent theater accessible to all, uniting us in the singular sensation of great performances with some of our favorite actors dazzling us inclusively. The intimacy of the experience is otherworldly. Seeing actors who awe us on the big screen and Broadway up close and personal takes your breath away as you forget time and place to be in the moment waiting for words that thrill and performances that linger deliciously in your memory. I’ve been going to Shakespeare in the Park since I can remember and, of course, I have favorites and look forward to re-imaginings too, but being in Central Park as the sun sets and velvet cloaks the stage is a moment in time I cherish all year round. Don’t miss this season; it will be one of the best yet.
THE STARS The list of luminaries who have graced the stages of The Delacorte is unparalleled; it’s as impressive as Oscar night. Talents like Meryl Streep, Al Pacino, Natalie Portman, Denzel Washington, Anne Hathaway, Liev Schreiber, Amy Adams, Annette Bening, John Lithgow, and Sam Waterston are just a few who have inspired and entertained us. Amazing talents engaging us naturally, sometimes humorously upstaged by a raccoon or other wildlife wandering on stage spontaneously distracts for the moment. Occasionally the play will be wiped out by a sudden downpour, but an evening at The Delacorte is always brilliant, surprising, and memorable for its randy humor even in tragedy, Shakespeare found comedy, and genuine, candid performances. 106 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Liev Schreiber in Henry V ©Michal Daniel
OTHELLO
TWELFTH NIGHT
June 1st - June 24th This Summer, Tony winner Ruben Santiago-Hudson returns to Shakespeare in the Park to direct a sumptuous new production of Othello. Set amid war and palace intrigue in 17th-century Mediterranean, this classic drama about a noble Black Venetian general whose marriage is sabotaged by theater’s most infamous villain, Iago, remains Shakespeare’s most urgent and relevant tragedy today. A lush, romantic vision gives way to the violent tangle of love and jealousy, race and revenge in this must-see production of Shakespeare’s great tragedy.
July 17th – August 19th Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night is the unforgettable musical about love in all its many disguises. It is joyfully continuing this Summer season with music and lyrics by Shaina Taub. Oskar Eustis, Artistic Director of The Public Theater; and Kwame Kwei-Armah (incoming Artistic Director of London’s Young Vic) direct a stellar cast.
Celebrated for their performances during past seasons of Shakespeare in the Park, the production stars Chukwudi Iwuji as Othello (Royal Shakespeare Company) with Corey Stoll (House of Cards) as Iago and Heather Lind as Desdemona (Boardwalk Empire).
Twelfth Night is an enchanting comedy about a young heroine who washes up on the shores of Illyria, disguises herself as a man, is sent to court a countess, and falls in love with a Duke. Ato Blankson-Wood (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) joins the cast of Twelfth Night in the role of Orsino with Nikki M. James as Viola (Book of Mormon Tony Award winner), Andrew Kober as Malvolio (Boardwalk Empire), Jacob Ming-Trent (Shrek the Musical) as Sir Toby Belch, and Shaina Taub as Feste (composer, lyricist and actor; Shakespeare in the Park, Twelfth Night, 2016).
EVERYONE IS AN ARTIST This enchanting, whimsical and musical comedy brings together not only acclaimed equity actors but also two rotating ensembles of community members from all five boroughs, a celebration of five extraordinary years of Public Works, a national (Dallas, Detroit and Seattle) and international (The National Theater in London) Public Theater initiative that invites diverse communities across New York to create ambitious works of participatory theater.
Jimmy Smits and Kristen Johnson in Much Ado About Nothing ©Michal Daniel
Twelfth Night will run for five weeks during the summer, the first time the Public has included a production from Public Works, in its regular summer program allowing 50,000 more New Yorkers to see this inspiring community initiative. Public Works was founded in 2013 to encourage New York City residents to get involved in the theater. “This summer, we are making a huge leap forward by presenting a full-length run of a Public Works show,” said Oskar Eustis, the Public Theater’s artistic director. “Surrounded by a huge ensemble of community members, Twelfth Night will reach an enormously expanded audience with the profound Public Works message that everyone is an artist, and we are all in this together.” The Delacorte Theater in Central Park is accessible by entering at 81st Street and Central Park West or 79th Street and Fifth Avenue. For more information about The Public Theater and Shakespeare in the Park visit publictheater.org. •
HOW TO OBTAIN TICKETS TICKETS Tickets to The Public Theater’s Free Shakespeare in the Park are distributed, two per person, at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park on the day of the show. The Public Theater continues its partnership with TodayTix, which will again be offering the exclusive Mobile Ticket Lottery for Shakespeare in the Park. Tickets will be distributed by mobile lottery on the TodayTix app each date that there is a public performance at the Delacorte Theater.
Chukwudi Iwuji as Othello ©Charlie Carter
LOTTERY On each public performance date, a limited number of vouchers for that night’s performance will also be distributed via an in-person lottery at The Public Theater (425 Lafayette Street at Astor Place). Borough distribution information, as well as details about ADA accessible performances, will be available at a later date.
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE BIG SCREEN By Jenny Peters
BIG SUMMER ACTION FLICKS INCREDIBLES 2 PG Kids and adults alike are quivering with anticipation at finally getting to see their favorite animated superhero family back on the big screen. Incredibles 2 took 14 years to come to life, as writer-director Brad Bird took a very long time to follow up his Oscar-winning Pixar favorite The Incredibles. That’s allowed fans who were little at the time to grow up wanting more; those who were already grown in 2004 couldn’t help but love that original story of the Parrs, a typical American family who all happen to have superpowers. So it’s no surprise that expectations are very high for this sequel; we know we’ll be the first in line! ANT-MAN AND THE WASP Not yet rated If it seems like Marvel Comics is putting out a new movie every month, that’s because they are. Following the massive successes of Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War and Deadpool 2 comes Ant-Man and the Wasp, the last Marvel release for the summer. That’s the Paul Rudd-starring sequel to Ant-Man, with director Peyton Reed once again at the helm and co-stars Evangeline Lily, Michael Douglas and Judy Greer returning as well, along with Michelle Pfeiffer and Walton Goggins. This time, Ant-Man joins forces with the Wasp to fight the bad guys, and he’s still the smallest superhero ever. JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM PG-13 There are still lots of dinosaurs loose as Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom begins, and this sequel returns the main players at the island-based theme park gone wrong—Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard are back, now valiantly trying to keep the prehistoric animals from being slaughtered to extinction. There’s sure to be a velociraptor or two in the deadly mix, and most likely a T-Rex along for the actionpacked excitement, which is all happening as the island’s volcano begins erupting. Directed this time out by J. A. Bayona, whose The Impossible and A Monster Calls are both wonderful movies, so don’t be surprised if Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom turns out to be another winner in the longrunning Jurassic franchise. MISSION IMPOSSIBLE—FALLOUT Not yet rated As long as Tom Cruise’s Mission Impossible films keep hauling in the dough here and overseas, they will keep making them. After all, there’s always another assignment available for the IMF team to tackle. The team still has Ving Rhames, Rebecca Ferguson, and Simon Pegg on board, while Henry Cavill, Angela Bassett, and Michelle Monaghan round out the cast of Mission Impossible—Fallout, the sixth installment in this movie franchise that has been going since 1996. Expect lots of outrageous action and excitement in this one—as usual. 108 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
FUNNY FARCES MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN Rated PG-13 When Mamma Mia! burst onto the big screen in 2008, the world embraced the story of Donna, her daughter Sophie and the three men who might be her father, all set to the music of Abba. Ten years later, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again arrives in theaters, with most of the original cast—Meryl Streep, Amanda Seyfried, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgard and Christine Baranski— back for this sequel. This time, Oscar-winner Anne Dudley (The Full Monty) composed the music, and the story explores the past, when a young Donna met the three men, as well as the present, as Sophie is about to give birth to her own child. Watch for Cher to turn up and warble out a song or two, too. TAG Not yet rated Lifelong friends have been playing a game of tag for thirty years in this whacked-out comedy. Based on a real-life story, this flick brings together a talented group of actors including two-time Oscar nominee Jeremy Renner, Emmy winner Jon Hamm, The Hangover star Ed Helms along with Hannibal Buress, Isla Fisher, Jake Johnson, Rashida Jones, Annabelle Wallis, and Leslie Bibb. They’ll go to crazy lengths to make someone else be “it,” resulting in lots of nutty situations and serious lunacy.
SUSPENSEFUL STORIES OCEAN’S 8 Rated PG-13 After three Ocean’s caper flicks (Eleven, Twelve, and Thirteen) directed by Steven Soderbergh that starred an all-star group of men including George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Matt Damon, it’s time for the women to take over and pull off a daring heist. Sandra Bullock stars as Debbie Ocean, the sister of Clooney’s character Danny Ocean, who gathers a group of uniquely talented females with a goal to rob the attendees of the annual Met Ball. And if the actresses included are any indication of the quality of the film, this one’s a real winner, considering that Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Helena Bonham Carter, Sarah Paulson, Mindy Kaling, Awkwafina, and Rihanna make up the rest of the crew. THE EQUALIZER 2 Not yet rated Denzel Washington returns as Robert McCall, aka The Equalizer, a man with a violent past who has dedicated himself to helping people in trouble who cannot help themselves. The Equalizer 2, is the sequel to that 2014 thriller, which is once again directed by Antoine Fuqua and penned by Richard Wenk. Fans of the original film should expect more of the same kind of darkly violent action and mysterious developments. Bill Pullman and Melissa Leo return to the roles they originated in the first adventure, while Pedro Pascal (Game of Thrones/Narcos) brings his quiet intensity to this disturbing follow up. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 109
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE SMALL SCREEN By Jenny Peters
SOLVE THE MYSTERY C. B. STRIKE Cinemax Delve into the criminal mind of Cormoran Blue Strike, a private investigator with a penchant for hard-to-solve, brutal murder cases. He’s the creation of Harry Potter author J. K. Rowling, who has written a series of novels about him using the pseudonym Robert Galbraith; now Cinemax brings the BBC-produced TV miniseries adaptation to U.S. audiences. Strike (Tom Burke) is an ex-military man with a bum leg and a tough guy who works with a smart female assistant played by Holliday Granger. The stories couldn’t be further from Harry Potter, but Rowling (as always) knows how to spin a fascinating yarn. SHARP OBJECTS HBO In this eight-episode series, journalist (Amy Adams) returns to her hometown to report on the killing of a young girl and uncovers much more than meets the eye in this limited series based on the Gillian Flynn (Gone Girl) novel of the same name. With a terrific supporting cast including Patricia Clarkson, Henry Czerny, Elizabeth Perkins, Matt Craven and Chris Messina, and the Emmywinning Big Little Lies director Jean-Marc Vallee at the helm of all eight episodes, Sharp Objects seems to be poised as the one to watch for crime lovers this summer.
DELVE INTO DRAMA CASTLE ROCK Hulu From the slightly twisted minds of Stephen King and J. J. Abrams comes Castle Rock, a ten-episode series designed to scare the wits out of you. Set (as usual for Stephen King) in a small town in Maine, the show is a psychological horror drama that reportedly draws inspiration from some of King’s most-loved novels, including Misery, The Shining, and The Shawshank Redemption. With stars like Sissy Spacek, Melanie Lynskey, Andre Holland, Jane Levy, Bill Skarsgard and Scott Glenn, we know we’ll be watching—until we’re too scared to keep tuning in, that is. STRANGE ANGEL CBS All Access “Strange” really is the operative word for executive producer Ridley Scott’s new Strange Angel TV series based on a fact-based story from the 1930s and 1940s. Created by Mark Heyman, the show follows the weird life of rocket scientist Jack Parsons (played by handsome Jack Reynor), who founded the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and was also a follower of Thelema, an occult religion that involved sexual ritual, mystic rites, and other outlandish elements. Rupert Friend and Bella Heathcote co-star in this show that is not for the kiddies, but adults may find it a bizarrely fascinating look into how far one can crawl down the rabbit hole. 110 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
SUCCESSION HBO If Rupert Murdoch and his children come to mind as you begin watching HBO’s new drama Succession, that’s not too surprising, for the parallels are apparent. The fictional tale of a massively wealthy New York family that controls much of the world’s media and entertainment, the story begins as aging patriarch Logan Roy (Brian Cox) contemplates stepping down from the empire he created. Over ten episodes, the rest of the Roy family—his wife and four children—begin to jockey for the position and power that he is reluctantly relinquishing. With a talented group of creators, writers, and directors including Jesse Armstrong, Adam McKay, Will Farrell and Frank Rich, Succession is poised to make a killing this summer. YELLOWSTONE Paramount Networks Kevin Costner stars in this modern Western created by Tyler Sheridan, who was honored with an Oscar nomination for his excellent script for the film Hell or High Water. That, too, is a modern Western, created with depth and vivid characterizations, leading us to believe that Yellowstone will offer a fascinating look at a wealthy rancher, his extended family and their struggle to fend off those who want to grab at the land they have owned for generations. With a cast that includes Wes Bentley, Gretchen Moll, Danny Huston and Josh Lucas and locations in Montana and Utah, one thing is sure: Yellowstone will be fun to watch.
CUDDLE UP WITH COMEDY AMERICAN WOMAN Paramount Networks Fiction imitates a reality show in American Woman, this new 30-minute comedy based on the real-life childhood of Kyle Richards, the actress who is best known as one of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Set in Southern California in the 1970s and starring Alicia Silverstone as a single mother trying to raise her two daughters while embracing the feminist changes of the era, this one is full of laughs (and some tears, too). Mena Suvari and Jennifer Bartels costar as her best pals, all decked out with Farrah hair and bell-bottomed jumpsuits. It’s a blast from the past, style-wise, but the show’s underlying themes are just as spot on today as they were forty years ago. DIETLAND AMC Satire is alive and well on AMC, as Dietland comes to the network that gave us Mad Men. Based on Sarai Walker’s popular novel, this cutting comedy skewers the modern fashion, beauty and publishing industries, with a heroine (Joy Nash) who doesn’t quite match the unrealistic standards of those female-dominated worlds. But she’s not letting that stop her, as she madly moves forward in the cutthroat dominion of New York’s highfashion magazines. Watch for a redheaded Julianna Margulies in a scene-chewing role; favorites Robin Weigert (Deadwood) and Tamara Tunie (Law and Order: SVU) turn up in juicy turns, too. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 111
NEW YORK, NY
SUMMER IN THE CITY MAKE THE MOST OF THOSE WARM AND SUNNY DAYS By Natasha Bazika
round every New York City corner is an adventure. But add sunshine, vibrant flowers, and streets overflowing with people—and what do you get? Fun in the city. So get ready to revel in long warm days in the park, rooftop bar nights and music-filled nights. Here, just some of the hot events to add to your list. MOMA PS1
SUMMERSTAGE
As the weather warms up, why not Warm Up the dance floor at MoMA PS1’s pioneering outdoor music series, returning for its 21st season this summer from June 30th through September 1st. The series will feature the best in live and electronic music, featuring a wide range of emerging and established artists. The program’s alumni include contemporary creators Solange, Black Dice, Jamie XX and legendary DJ’s Ritchie Hawtin and Derrick May. Each year, Warm Up takes place within a site-specific installation by the winners of the annual Young Architects Program and this summer, MoMA PS1’s courtyard will be transformed by Dream the Combine, an installation featuring large-scale mirrors that create unexpected visual connections. Tickets can be purchased for $99. Info: moma.org/calendar/events/3897.
New York City’s biggest free summer music festival is upon us once again, and we couldn’t be more excited. For all music fans, SummerStage, presented by City Parks Foundation is a popular event to kick up their heels and let loose as they listen to everything from New York hip-hop artist’s in outer borough city parks to big-name indie-rock bands on Central Parks’ mainstage. This year’s festival runs from June 2nd through September 27th, with events happening almost every day, including dance parties, concerts, live poetry, theater, ballet and outdoor opera series. SummerStage also brings family-friendly activities, including dance and drum workshops from the experts themselves. Info: cityparksfoundation.org/ summerstage.
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SummerStage
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK “If music be the food of love…play on,” said Shakespeare in his famous play the Twelfth Night. One of the great summer traditions of Central Park is Shakespeare in the Park at Delacorte Theater. The annual free event includes two productions over the summer course, which this year include Othello and Twelfth Night. This summer Tony winner Ruben Santiago-Hudson directs a sumptuous new production of Othello, while critically-acclaimed songwriter Shaina Taub showcases her music and lyrics in the beloved Twelfth Night production. This free production is an unmissable New York City experience, as crowds are seen lining up at the crack of dawn to watch the play begin as the sun sets behind the charming Delacorte Theater. Info: publictheater.org.
Shakespeare in The Park
ROOFTOP BARS With the warm weather rolling in, city dwellers are gearing up for all manner of seasonal activities including outdoor dining and savoring a Manhattan on a rooftop bar with stunning panoramic views of the real Manhattan at sunset. Rooftop bars are a great way to see the city from above without having to pay for a ticket to the top and drinking is permitted on this deck. There are endless options of rooftop bars, including some with pools, others with lounges and, of course, the classic brick architectural details that make a rooftop bar romantic and traditional to New York City’s bar scene. So, here’s to raising a glass in front of the best views of the city. Info:nycgo. com/photo-galleries/nyc-hotel-rooftops.
Rooftop Bars
KAYAKING UPRIVER Escape the city by water, with free kayaking on the Hudson River. Adventurers will head out to two locations along the Hudson River for a chance to see New York City from a new perspective. Pier 96 or the dock at 72nd street are two locations of the Manhattan Community Boathouse that offers free kayaking to anyone looking for an adventure, while also getting some exercise in. After signing a waiver and strapping on a life vest, climb into a kayak from the water-level floating deck and float away for 20 minutes on the serene waters of the Hudson, while witnessing the city from the outside. It is a first come, first-served basis, so make sure to get in early. Info: manhattancommunityboathouse.org.
Kayaking Upriver
MIDSUMMER NIGHT SWING
Midsummer Night Swing
Midsummer Night Swing brings together crowds of people to Damrosch Park at Lincoln Center looking to swing, flip and tap away the night under a starry sky. From June 27th through July 15th, dancers will partake in group dance lessons that kick off at 6:30 pm, learning everything from ballroom to salsa and everything in-between. Dancers can also attend a late night silent disco on selected nights, which sounds like a perfect romantic date. Twirl under the stars by music provided by incredible live bands and artists such as The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra, Loser’s Lounge, Harlem Renaissance Orchestra and more. Tickets range from $20 to $170, depending on how many sessions you choose. Info: lincolncenter.org/ midsummer-night-swing. JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 113
MORE HAPPENINGS IN THE CITY JUNE
June 12th – 17th Music In The Park Hear classical music outdoors under the stars at New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks, followed by fireworks Grape Escapes in Bklyn
GRAPE ESCAPES IN BKLYN This summer, visit the world’s first commercially viable rooftop vineyard, located in Brooklyn’s innovative Navy Yard. Rooftop Reds occupies a space of 14,800 square feet, with 42 planters, containing 168 grape vines and offers visitors the chance to try a variety of wines from New York’s Finger Lakes region. You can sip on a glass of Cabernet Franc Rosé from a picnic table or hammock overlooking downtown Brooklyn. A familiar sight is crowds of young professionals mingling over a game of corn hole or catching a rooftop movie with wine and pizza included. Every Wednesday evening starting at 7 pm, tour the rooftop space, partake in wine and cheese tastings as you learn about the operations and visions of New York City’s first rooftop vineyard. Info: rooftopreds.com.
June 16th Outdoor Adventures Hike, bike, climb, fish, and paddle at Adventures NYC at the Central Park bandshell area. Children under age 18 need a legal guardian for some activities. Mermaid Parade Watch (or participate) in the glittery parade with costumes, floats and aquatic themes along with classic cars that drive east along Surf Avenue on Coney Island, Brooklyn. Starts at 1 pm. June 21st Solstice Celebration Summer Solstice Celebration includes art-making workshops, face painting, a solstice ritual, music, and entertainment at Socrates Sculpture Park, Astoria. June 23rd – 24th Craft Fair Shop from 200 artisans, chefs, and vintage vendors at Renegade Craft Fair at Brooklyn Expo Center. June 24th Pride Sunday Pride Week events include a noon Pride March down 5th Avenue, an afternoon PrideFrest fair on Hudson Street, and Pride Island from 2 – 10 pm, at Pier 97, followed by fireworks.
Day Trip to The Hamptons
JULY
July 4th New York Fireworks Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular lights up the sky above the East River at 9:20 pm for 25 minutes. To hear details, call 212-494-4495, ext. 1. Hot Dog Eating Contest Watch qualified champion eaters, compete in the world famous Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on Coney Island. Women compete at 11 am; men at 12:30 pm.
DAY TRIP TO THE HAMPTONS Escape the city for a day to enjoy the beautiful scenery and seaside charm of the Hamptons on Long Island. Choose to look into a guided tour or catch the train out and make your own itinerary. Walk the pristine beaches, scour boutique shops, sip on rosé, enjoy a contemporary art exhibit or tour a Hampton show house for an allaround experience in the Hamptons. You can also opt in for a sunset cruise or a ride on a yacht to appreciate the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Info: Empire Vacations, empirevacations.com; Hampton Jitney, hamptonjitney.com; Long Island Railroad, mta.info. •
July 13th – August 24th Outdoor Movies See free movies outdoors at Summer Movie Series at Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Every Friday; arrive early.
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July 17th – 26th Jazz Festival Hear world-class jazz artists (including soulful singers) at the Jazz in July Festival at 92nd Street Y. July 29th Folklorico Festival Watch colorful dancers perform the dances of Oaxaca, Mexico, hear lively music, and shop for crafts at Guelaguetza Festival in Socrates Sculpture Park, Astoria.
NEW YORK, NY
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER CHARLES SMITH, FORMER NY KNICK By Lee Gabay
asketball was thrilling in the city during the years Charles Smith played for the New York Knicks. With Smith in the line-up (1992-1996), the team went deep into the playoffs each year including consecutive Eastern Conference Finals and an exciting seven-game NBA final against the Houston Rockets in 1994. But when he wasn’t battling Reggie Miller’s Pacers or Michael Jordan’s Bulls, Smith traded in his #54 orange and blue jersey, for a blue suit and tie, to work at a marketing firm. Recognizing the burgeoning business/marketing side of sports and corporate sponsorship, Smith personally brokered deals and negotiated contracts for his teammates and the arena. He explains, “When I met Marvin Jemal—owner of The Wiz—I asked him why he was only doing deals with Patrick [Ewing] and not the other guys? Jemal said that he didn’t like working with agents.” Smith offered to handle the contracts for his teammates and is responsible for those memorable KnicksWiz TV commercials. Soon after the successful Wiz deal, Smith approached the CEO and Head of Marketing for Perry Ellis at an event and introduced the idea of seat-back advertising on the Madison Square Garden chairs. Today, this visionary promotional tool is standard throughout most venues across the NBA. 116 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
Charles Smith
NBA TO MBA Charles Smith is a gifted negotiator whose passion for commerce is supported by a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Pittsburg, the entrepreneurial program at Stanford University and just shy from his Masters of Business from Seton Hall. “If I am with you, I am studying you. I am not trying to size up or find flaws. I look for things that I can learn, take away and perhaps apply to my practice. I can tell you all the players and CEO’s I have borrowed from.” His penchant for acquiring knowledge has served this NBA star turned corporate executive well. Smith now works at The Midas Exchange, owned by the largest media company in the world, WPP. With corporate trade as Smith’s area of expertise, he creates value propositions for specific brands and purchases their underperforming assets. In exchange, he gets to execute their media buys and expenditures. Target, Direct General, and Rent-A-Center are just a few of his clients.
EXPANSION
Segueing from starting power forward for the ready-to-brawl Knicks of the 1990’s to a proven business executive and entrepreneur, was a surprisingly natural progression for Smith. “As a young kid, I was always problem solving and negotiating—ask my sisters.” Being a former Knick opened up many doors but also created a few challenges. “I don’t think people know how to take me at times. They don’t expect the depth and knowledge of my business acumen. I love to talk about basketball in meetings but when it is time to work, they eventually stop seeing a Knick and see me as a celeb-utive.” After retiring from his successful 10-year NBA career in 1997, Smith applied his networking know-how and relentless work ethic towards founding a digital media company in the Financial District. He was the first employee in the office before sunrise and last to leave at night. In fact, he admits, “My recollections of Wall Street are that it was always dark.” He also opened an after-school center for inner city school children in his WINNING STRATEGIES hometown of Bridgeport, CT and became executive director of the National Seeing him in action at his midtown Manhattan office, Basketball Retired Player Association, where he developed Legends Care; a Smith seems to draw from his athletic background program for NBA and WNBA players to assist local communities. by employing a group-oriented philosophy. He’s an integral part of this billion dollar company, but he also Reflecting on his unique and unprecedented trajectory, Smith comments, “It’s seems to stand out from his teammates. This goes well all one continuous flow. I’ve been through the whole gamut in business, I’ve beyond the optic of him being nearly seven feet tall. He’s failed more than I’ve won.” But then continues, “I’ve learned that failures are naturally vibrant, discussing creative strategies for his written in pencil and become erasable from the knowledge I’ve gained.” clientele, crafting new techniques to further their brand awareness and acquiring more foot traffic. “On the basketball court. I didn’t excel at one particular thing. I was good at a lot of different facets of the game.” His approach to working with companies during his annual Sports, Business and Entertainment Conference is similar. “I look at a company’s growth potential to see what direction they are going in and identify three or four areas where I can become of value to them.” Despite success in the highly competitive fields of professional basketball and New York City business, Charles Smith has remained humble. He uses the subway to get around and only takes taxis when necessary. He still goes to Knicks games, and for him, the most rewarding aspect is reconnecting with the union people who work at the Garden. “The players come and go, but the ushers, food vendors, locker room attendants, security people have been around for years.” Smith is proud that his Knicks still resonate so fondly with New Yorkers. “People come up to me all the time to talk about those days,” he says with quiet gratitude. And like a good entrepreneur, Charles Smith understands he has to adapt to a changing world. He’s done it well—and his efforts are sustainable. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 117
NEW YORK, NY
MY NEW YORK STORY By Chris Massimine
hat’s more New York than the theater? You can see wonderful performances almost anywhere in the world. Seminal playwriting and productions percolate up from around the country, but the spiritual heart of professional theater is indisputably here in NYC, for a very good reason. Coming from a tapestry of cultures and backgrounds, the people in the arts community here inspire each other through richly diverse ideas. That is what theater is all about. I am a walking, talking, piano-playing case study: I am the CEO of the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. I am not Jewish. I’m not a native Yiddish speaker. I am 32 years old. Some might say it is an unlikely match. But this is New York, where a head full of creativity and a heart open to enrolling opportunities can register the impossible more-than-possible: probable.
THEATER IN MY DNA
I was born across the ocean and entered into the theatrical world as a child performer. I was a Broadway babe, literally, and in a sense, I grew up backstage. And by college, I had grown out of performance and into producing. After attending NYU, I pursued work as a general manager, eager to learn more and do more. Ultimately, this was my first lesson in balance as it burned me out of theater and transitioned me into the mainstream worlds of advertising, communications, and television. I became a fast-rising star in all three sectors, winning awards, and bettering my craft as a creative manager. Then, after starting a brand development consulting firm, not two months into a client-packed A-list roster cash cow, I was approached by several people working at the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. The company needed a marketing consultant. I didn’t need more clients. I reluctantly met with the Executive Director, and we had an amazing hour-long conversation. Now, I had come to this meeting only knowing the Executive Director’s name and that I was speaking with an Off-Broadway theater company. So, after our mutually enjoyable lengthy discussion, when the Executive Director asked if I had any questions, it occurred to me that I had no idea which company this was. That’s when the Executive Director revealed to me I was chatting with the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. Immediately, I thought that was awesome. At NYU, I had learned about the Yiddish theater’s contributions to the American Cultural landscape. What started out as a part-time consulting gig, ended up restoring my faith in theater. Within a few months of taking on the Folksbiene, I transitioned my firm’s clients into other capable hands and began my journey as the Marketing Communications Director of the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene. I became COO, and now CEO. I find myself enjoying it thoroughly. 118 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
THE CENTER OF IT ALL
I am very fortunate to live in Hell’s Kitchen. It is central to everything I do. Just walking down Ninth Avenue, there is every kind of ethnic food you can imagine. The neighborhood brings together the theater community, the arts community, and the multi-cultural community. Many of the commercial Broadway companies make it a practice to go off to grab a bite in groups, and I’ll often tag along with them to try different cultural cuisines and start conversations based on that; it’s so stimulating. Being an immigrant myself, I began to reflect that everything I knew about my heritage was somehow fabricated. I concluded that we were Americanized. My family didn’t really talk about the past, the old country, or cultural traditions. I thought that loss of heritage was sad. That is why founding the Immigrant Arts Coalition is near and dear to me. The theater is a massive economic engine for NYC. Broadway’s past season generated $1.45 billion for the industry, $12.6 billion to the economy of NYC, and created over 87,100 jobs. And to repeat, those numbers are just for Broadway, not taking into account all the other performing and fine arts that make our city’s cultural landscape so vibrant, or the restaurants, hotels and other ancillary businesses.
Creating the Immigrant Arts Coalition
BRIDGING ARTS & POLITICS
Immigrant performers are often not given a fair opportunity in casting, sometimes because their visa status is in process and the casting director is afraid to take a chance, or because they have an accent, authentic though it may be. We know that immigrant artists are essential to the creative process. Without the cross-pollination of ideas, cultures, heritages, many of our most iconic “American” art forms would not exist and could not flourish. Working with the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene, I saw a gap between immigrant advocacy organizations and arts organizations. There are tens of thousands of cultural arts organizations in New York City that in some way or another connect to immigrant arts. In 2017, we wanted to see if there was the seed of an idea to come together for the benefit of all. We hosted an Immigrant Arts summit. The genesis was getting people together to create an open dialogue.
THE CREATIVE SPIRIT IS ALIVE
What resulted was hundreds of thousands of people watching online streamed and recorded events and panel discussions. From the audience engagement, we realized the challenges that exist are present beyond the confines of our little island and are major national issues. There was a definite need for a someone, something, an entity A career in the arts is never secure. And being an of sorts to help steer the conversation and be that beacon of hope for the multiethnic immigrant artist is doubly difficult, with all the cultural composition of our country. complicated issues that they have to deal with related to immigration laws, obtaining visas, We stepped up: all 50 multi-cultural arts organizations which comprised the first and battling language and cultural barriers. It Summit--including the Mayor’s Office--the entertainment unions, and the New is regrettable, but true that many immigrant York Foundation for the Arts. Together, we formed the Immigrant Arts Coalition to artists wind up working in what amounts advocate for immigrant artists and the particular problems they face, to elevate the to indentured servitude in exchange for an standing of immigrant arts groups, to champion diversity as a strength, not a weakness. In the short window of a year, we have become the answer for this kind of communityemployer’s sponsorship for a visa application. building. The Immigrant Arts Coalition will be that umbrella organization that bridges art and politics.
A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES
My “day” job is unquestionably an immigrant arts experience. The National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene is the oldest consecutivelyproducing performing arts institution in the U.S. and was founded in 1915. The modern Broadway theater is a direct descendent of Yiddish theater. Part of the excitement of working with this company is the opportunity to make it relevant to new audiences, who may not have the emotional connection to either the material or the language.
Jerry Zaks with Chris Massimine
That is where my status as a “goy” (non-Jew) is such an asset. In the same way that other immigrant arts transcend their ethnic heritage due to their artistic virtuosity—Flamenco, African drumming, even K-pop—Yiddish theater is also finding resonance. This summer, we will produce Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish. It will be the first time this musical theater icon has been presented in Yiddish in fifty years and the first time in the U.S. Of course, there will be supertitles in English, but I feel confident that when Tevye talks to the Almighty about his troubles, visibly carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, it will be universally understood by everyone. The bottom line is we’re all born, do some stuff, and then leave this world. So, during my short stay here, I choose to do good as an advocate for compassion and compromise through conversation. It also happens there’s nothing I love more than a good talk. The secret is everyone wants to talk, once you get them to open up. And getting someone to open up, opens a world of possibilities. • JUNE/JULY 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 119
NEW YORK, NY
TIME OUT WITH…
BETSY COX, BLACKBOOK CONCIERGE By Anne Grenier
ophisticated, discrete, with service always at a client’s beck and call, Blackbook Concierge has excelled within the lifestyle management space since 2006. From impossible-to-get dinner reservations to finding impossible tee times to a worldwide network of multi-lingual professionals with in-depth knowledge, Blackbook Concierge is the premier facilitator of luxury services. Betsy Cox
MISSION: POSSIBLE
PARTING WAYS
Founded by Betsy Cox, the company’s ability to adapt to the changing needs of clients, as well as to fluctuating economic climates, has set Blackbook apart in an increasingly crowded marketplace. She’s accomplished this by establishing a trajectory of everevolving services. Blackbook professionals can find the perfect yacht charter in St. Tropez. They can also research and direct clients to an excellent physician, the ideal realtor, or top-rated schools. A genuinely full-service lifestyle management agency.
Betsy’s expertise extends beyond travel. Prominent in the list of Blackbook’s services is Blackbook Divorce. Launched in 2016, this aspect of the business was conceived with an upswing in client requests. She manages the lifestyle changes couples experience during and after a divorce. Blackbook Divorce will coordinate attorneys, real estate needs, childcare, and all the logistics that coincide with separation. “We will help cut through the red tape of the breakup. I spread the wealth of my knowledge, and hopefully, they will become a client and see how I can really work!”
Blackbook’s event planning prowess and execution is the best in the business. In fact, before founding her own company, Betsy worked as an event planner for Investcorp, an international investment firm based in Bahrain. Here she traveled the world setting up events and handling client relations. Today, she and her team of worldwide network professionals know precisely how to cater to all the whims and desires of clients. The group recently pulled off a week-long birthday celebration in Morocco, a graduation yacht party in St. Barth’s, and an exclusive 21st birthday bash in Las Vegas. Betsy, herself a divorcee, found she fully understood the lifestyle management requirement Betsy adds “We can procure the toughest restaurants in the world getting a table necessary to alleviate the stress involved when she Rao’s. Or how about dinner at Tiro a Segno, a private downtown club which means began receiving referrals from friends for divorce between courses you can practice targets in the shooting range downstairs. Find a advice and services. From there, Blackbook room at Hotel du Cap and a last-minute table to dance on at Bagatelle St. Tropez.” Divorce took shape and propelled the company The possibilities are endless. Perhaps you want to surprise a loved one with a birthday into the spotlight. She has been featured in the party in the exclusive villa at Mexico’s Costa Careyes. Or fly off for a weekend in New York Times, The Palm Beach Post, The New London with access to the inaccessible clubs. And for those who want to live the York Post and various other publications, as well as good life but want to stay close to home, there’s always a last-minute getaway in the appearing on a divorce episode of Cake Boss. Hamptons with access to all the best trendy restaurants. So, whether it’s an escape on a yacht or a weekend to a luxurious Anguilla private villa, no request is too big For more information on Betsy Cox and Blackbook or small.” Concierge, visit blackbooknewyork.com. • 120 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | JUNE/JULY 2018
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