Vol. 4 #8 | October 2018
MARILYN HOFFMAN DEFINES LUXURY REAL ESTATE
HAPPENINGS Escape To Haunted NYC
TRAVEL Fall Foliage Getaways
STYLE Luxe For Less
HEALTH Fighting Fads & Fat
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Contents
14
FEATURES 12 14 50 56 57
From The Publisher Cover Feature: Marilyn Hoffman Through The Lens With Annie Watt APP-solutely Fabulous Tech Talk: New & Noteworthy Phones
STYLE 20 22 24 26
24
Life & Style Male Call A Real Deal: Luxe For Less Pretty In Pink
TRAVEL 29 35 38 40 43 47
Fall Foliage Getaways Red Bank, NJ: River Town With Spirit Washington, D.C: A Weekend Family Getaway Nashville: Music City U.S.A. QM2: Hail To The Queen Graycliff: The Caribbean’s Best-Kept Secret
43
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 61 64 66 68 70
107 East 61st Street Around Town: Upper East Side Spotlight: Don Peebles Less Is More: Making The Most Of Small Living Space The Gadget Guy: Smart Security For Your Home
6 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
61
Luxury Real Estate Auction Bella Fortuna:
An award-winning, private trophy estate presiding over a rare, elevated one-acre, peninsula with 750’ of waterfront in Fort Lauderdale’s exclusive Las Olas Isles. With architectural design by Jeffrey Smith, this newly-constructed Palm-Beach-inspired, classic Venetian masterpiece is adorned with intricate craftsmanship and luxurious appointments throughout. At the intersection of the New River and Intracoastal Waterway, and direct access minutes away to the Atlantic Ocean, Bella Fortuna is perfectly situated in the Yachting Capital of the World.
LIVE AUCTION EVENT • NOVEMBER 1, 2018 • 11 AM EST
5 Bedrooms 11 Bathrooms 17,363 +/- sq Ft.
Previously Listed at $39M • Minimum Bid: $19.5M • Up to 25 % of Purchase Price Can be Paid in Bitcoin
BellaFortunaEstate.com Luxury Real Estate Specialist Katrina Campins 786.493.5652 / 305.776.4089 Katrina@Campinsco.com
Luxury Real Estate Auction Specialist Francis Santos 954.745.0742 Francis@FisherAuction.com
FL LIC# AB106, AU93 I 2% BROKER PARTICIPATION I AUCTION SUBJECT TO TERMS OF SALE
Contents
72
MONEY MATTERS
74
72 Starting Your Own Business
HEALTH & WELLNESS 74 76 78 79
Dr. Howard Sobel: Keeping Skin Sensational The Land Of Happiness Fighting Fat & Fads Spa Scene: Haven Spa
FOOD & DRINK 80 Philip Marie 82 Gyro World: A New Spin On Greek Cuisine
80
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 85 86 88 90 92
Farsad Labbauf: From My East To Your West On Stage On The Big Screen On The Small Screen Kusama—Infinity
88
NEW YORK, NY 93 97 98 100 102 104
Haunted NYC: A Guide To Ghostly Happenings Remembering Christopher Columbus Paws Down, Tails Up Entrepreneur’s Corner: Jeremy Murphy My New York Story: Dr. Nicole Becker Time Out With…Sophie Jacobi-Parisi & Shireen Arani
8 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
93
for fall escape
Go to nature and taste the soil. Get lost in a vineyard and meditate on a mountaintop. Awaken your sense of adventure and live richly.
SEEK FOR YOURSELF. ulstercountyalive.com
OUR CONTRIBUTORS ELLIS NASSOUR International arts journalist Ellis Nassour is a veteran of The New York Times and New York Daily News and contributor to Gannett News. He authored the first and still considered definitive biography of music legend Patsy Cline, Honky Tonk Angel, four pages of which are the narrative for the revue Always, Patsy Cline. His new book Jesus Christ Superstar: Landmark Rock Opera to Worldwide Phenomenon takes readers behind-thescenes of his association with Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Ellis’ new musical is Music City, U.S.A.: Ev’ry Country Gal’s Hollywood. LORI ZELENKO Lori Zelenko creates awardwinning marketing communications campaigns when she’s not writing about pets and theater. Recognized for strategic brand development across all platforms including print, digital, video, and full-service event production she has worked with a host of luxury lifestyle clients particularly in the beauty arena through her independent firm, LSZ Communications. Skillfully able to deliver above expectations, she is resourceful and imaginative, able to circumvent the obvious to craft strategies that excel. Indeed her support for Parlux Fragrances launches of Rihanna, Paris Hilton and Jessica Simpson fragrances drove these brands to the top of the sales charts. For all her clients from Jemily Fine Jewelry to York Street Studio’s innovative interior design she uncovers opportunities not always readily apparent to build the momentum that makes the difference. She lives in New York City with her two dogs, Bikini and Annabelle, who inspired her to start Pet Lifestyles Magazine. TASH BAZIKA As a globetrotting, freelance journalist, Tash Bazika is on a mission to create smart and compelling content for the various media outlets she contributes to. The native Australian has always had a taste for adventure and travel, which led her to receive a journalism degree and embark on her travel-writing journey. Bazika has contributed to various publications including Malibu Times magazine, Upscale Living and many more media outlets. Her time is spent writing about anything and everything from fashion to profiles on philanthropists and influencers to luxury resorts and spas. Her specialty is everything travel, food, and adventure. She often brings her stories further to life with her photography. Her travel bucket list includes Croatia, Paris, and Spain and when she’s not on the go, she enjoys reading and editing her photos. 10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
ISSN 2474-770X
Vol. 4 #8 | October 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
Special Projects Editor Norah Bradford
Chief Photographer Annie Watt
Contributing Writers Natasha Bazika, Bailey Beckett, Eric Czepyha Isa Freeling, Lee Gabay, Jenna Guarneri, TJ Johnson Dr. Peter Kalellis, Gretchen Kelly, Mark Laiosa, Jeremy Murphy Ellis Nassour, Ted Owen, Ben Paciello, Darren Paltrowitz, Mark Pelligren David Porter, Anne Raso, Will Red, Gerrie Summers 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: Billy Campbell
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FROM THE PUBLISHER
Check us out on the web!
ctober is the perfect time of year in New York. The air is refreshingly crisp and the leaves are so colorfully brilliant. And as beautiful as it is here, it’s even more spectacular if you take to the road and discover incredible destinations brimming with color. My recommendation is let us be your guide and don’t miss our Fall Foliage Getaways travel feature. A Fall trip is the perfect remedy for an over-scheduled life and the daily hustle of the city. Happy trails. Let’s not forget some other significant events that are happening around town and only a subway ride away. First, get ready to geek out or get your inner nerd on, at the New York Comic Con. This four-day family favorite is one of the biggest pop culture events to be held at the Javits Center from October 4th through 7th. The show is filled with celebrity panels and unique shopping opportunities, but whatever you do don’t forget to dress up as your favorite superhero or villain. It’s a blast (be sure to send me a photo). Most New Yorkers don’t realize that the Ice Rink At Rockefeller Center opens on October 8th. This is one of the most celebrated attractions our city offers over the holiday season. So get your blades ready and go early, because I assure you this one-of-a- kind experience will make memories you will cherish forever.
Read Any of Our Issues In Digital Format on:
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Obviously, with Halloween creeping up on us, don’t forget to take your little goblins and ghouls to the Bronx Boo At The Zoo. Here children are invited to view animalinspired magic shows, watch costume parades, see an eerie graveyard, and even get a chance to watch an artist create giant animals out of pumpkins. Yes, it’s spooktacular. And it goes without saying—but I’ll say it anyway—if you’re in the true hollowed spirit of mingling with tens of thousands of zombies, witches, and ghouls—then there’s nothing quite like the Village Halloween Parade on October 31st. It kicks off at 7 pm and runs along Sixth Avenue from Spring to 16th Streets. Best of all, everyone is welcome to watch and march—but costumes are a must. If you really want to get your vampire up, check out the Official After Party with best costume prizes, open bar, and live performances. Tickets are available online. Lastly, I would like to take a moment to say thank you to all New Yorkers who came out to support the Mayor’s Alliance along with a long list of animal rescue centers at the Adoptapalooza event at Union Square last month. What a success! It was so encouraging to see and feel the love people have for their pets—and those newly adopted family members, too! I look forward to hearing from you with comments, suggestions and what you would like to see on the pages of New York Lifestyles and Pet Lifestyles magazines. See you next month...
-Bill Mason
Publisher
12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Visit us at: newyorklifestylesmagazine.com
FEATURES
MARILYN HOFFMAN HOW SHE DEFINES LUXURY REAL ESTATE By Patricia Canole
f you say it enough times, a word will start to lose its luster. And in real estate, where the words draw buyers to a particular property, using it correctly is very crucial. So when the majority of homes are marketed as luxury, the definition of the word starts to melt away. Today, the term luxury has been used to describe everything from the ultra-luxury homes of the world’s wealthiest one percent to a modest kitchen with new appliances. So how do you define luxury in real estate?
14 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
WHERE DOES LUXURY BEGIN?
In many large U.S. cities, the typical luxury asking price will be much less than say a vast metropolitan region. In a city like New York, which attracts investors seeking property in a global trading hub, $10 million or more is typical. And while there’s no standard checklist for labeling a property as a luxury one, there are features which are standard across major U.S. cities. Prime location, high-end interior finishes— like marble countertops, professional-quality kitchen appliances—and customized amenities are often staples of a luxury residence. Another factor to consider is the unique features that separate luxury real estate from the rest. In most major cities owning a condo or a custom-built home designed by a renowned architect can set it apart from the rest. Exclusivity and prestige are some of the top priorities most buyers are looking for. The other is an individual’s preferences. Translating these ideals into a suburban or rural setting, luxury may be defined by living in a gated community with high-tech security features or as part of an association that permits access to a nearby country club. Of course, a luxury home today must go above and beyond what’s typical for the market. In other words, it’s no longer just installing a Sub-Zero refrigerator. Instead, it’s offering a full-room design from flooring to the cabinets, appliances, and lighting.
New York Lifestyles wanted to know more about luxury in real estate, so we decided to go to the top. We recently met with Marilyn Hoffman of Hoffman International Properties, Inc., in her Dallas, Texas headquarters who shed some light on what exactly is luxury real estate. Marilyn Hoffman needs no introduction in the real estate world; nearly every entrepreneur has either had a business dealing with her—or is looking forward to engaging her expertise one day. The daughter of a renowned Texas developer, who also specialized in breeding racehorses, Marilyn became involved with horses at a young age and spent years as a champion rider on the national show circuit. The experience gave her the knowledge she needed to specialize in selling in the luxury market and some famous real estate properties. Through the years, Marilyn Hoffman has positioned her company as one of the top influential real estate companies. She attributes her success to the client-first ideology, which entails her putting herself in the shoes of the client; it ensures what she would expect if she were hiring a realtor. The ideology has proved to be a success for Hoffman and has garnered her a stellar reputation in the business.
Buyers today are more aggressive about what they want, and they don’t want to wait.
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 15
Porte Cochere to Fountain
Kitchen Bar
Trends have changed so much that buyers are looking for new things. Master Bath
Master Bedroom
Tell us more about those equestrian years? I began showing homes with my father at the tender age of 15. The combined experience growing up on a 5,000-acre ranch and showing horses along with the exposure to my father’s business eventually led to marketing and selling luxury estates, equestrian properties and ranches. To this day, I attend many events both here in the U.S. and internationally where I promote my listings. A good example are places that include the Hamptons, Monte Carlo, Scottsdale, Beverly Hills, and Fisher Island. What is your definition of luxury real estate? The market has changed so much. When I first started in real estate, a luxury home was $100,000, and now even $1,000,000 is sometimes not considered a luxury home. Luxury Real Estate is a lifestyle. Trends have changed so much that buyers are looking for new things. My last sale to the CEO of the largest Japanese corporation was $10.8 million, and he had to have a panic room adjoining his bedroom even though there was already one in the home but more than 50 feet away. 16 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Indoor Pool
Dining Room
Aerial of the Barn Workshop
How do you see today’s luxury real estate market? I see many of today’s luxury real estate sales to foreign buyers who are buying sight unseen. For example, I recently sold a $20 million waterfront estate for the full price in only 24 days. It was previously listed with Christies Great Estates as well as Baird and Warner at $13 million and did not sell. What is remarkable is that I sold for full price, sight unseen. I asked the buyers when they wanted to see the property, and their answer was “When we move in!” Buyers today are more aggressive about what they want, and they don’t want to wait. I have sold many homes that were previously listed at a lower price, and I raised the price and generated a quick buyer with my international marketing.
Master Shower to Bathroom
What makes a property attractive to a potential buyer? A property must have existing and unique qualities which draw the buyer to it or be an excellent canvas for what they may create.
A $20 million waterfront estate Marilyn sold for full price in only 24 days.
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17
One such property that fits that description is Tanglewood which is now listed. Can you tell us more about this luxurious estate? Nothing is as wonderful as having an estate compound that is so ideal that there is little more to want but to enjoy it completely. Located one mile from Lake Texoma with its own stocked and professionally designed and maintained seven-acre lake and 17,865-square-foot home—a perfect setting for serenity. Here we find the ultimate park-like setting with 117 beautifully landscaped acres which create a compound having more to offer than can be imagined by anyone. It is lifestyle and high-end enjoyment rolled into one package. The current owners have invested over $3 million dollars of improvements which are magnificent; wholly automated with technology above standard for all structures adds a sense of security with C4 controls operated locally or from remote locations via iPhone or Android systems and much more state-ofthe-art technology features appear throughout the compound. A Category 5 Safe Room was also added in the upgrades. A Pro-Bass fishing expert was called upon to design the underwater topography for the creation of the seven acre lake, as well as the addition of pressure pond aerators and automatic fish food dispensers to keep the black bass, tiger perch, tilapia, and shad content. A 24 x 20-foot floating dock with a covered patio enhances the usage for fishing/boating.
Media Room Bar
18 18| |OUR OURCITY, CITY,YOUR YOURLIFE LIFE| |OCTOBER OCTOBER2018 2018
His and Her Workshops with three heated pull through bays and a 5,250 square foot covered area for heavy equipment set the stage for any usage, including conversion to a luxury Equine Stable with quarters for caretakers. In total, there are more than 15,000 square feet of enclosed workshop/barn space, heated and partially airconditioned.
Marilyn Hoffman was a sponsor of the Major Donor Weekend held at the Biltmore in Scottsdale honoring Ronald Lauder
The three-level, nearly 18,000-square-foot home is a state of the art masterpiece. The Great Room with vaulted ceiling is a masterpiece, while the formal Living Room, Dining Room, and Gourmet Kitchen become the centerpiece for parties and family gatherings. A second floor In-Law Suite is complete with laundry and its own kitchen. The spacious third floor Office has views of Lake Texoma and the surrounding countryside. Privacy, lifestyle, and a million options for recreation are available to the high-end buyer who wishes to enjoy the good life in a superlative area of the great State of Texas. Offered furnished at $9.7 million. For more information, visit UltimateTexomaEstate.com.
Marilyn congratulates Kenny Trott, owner of this year’s Triple Crown winner Justify.
Marilyn at the Southampton Hospital Gala with Jean Shafiroff
Marilyn congratulates the 2018 winners of the Cavallino Classic at Mar a Lago.
IS IT LUXURY?
If you are questioning whether your home would be a candidate for the luxury market, speak with an agent who specializes in high end real estate. A seasoned agent is able to determine what a property offers. Also, you might want to list your home’s features which set it apart from the rest of the neighborhood. This also goes for buyers. A good real estate agent will typically ask about the “must haves” in a home you need and prefer. For more information on Marilyn Hoffman and Hoffman International Properties, visit MarilynHoffmanRealtor.com. •
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19
STYLE
LIFE & STYLE
AN (ECLECTIC) AUTUMN LOOK-BOOK By Griffin Miller
aving bid Fall Fashion Week adieu, it’s the holidays that loom impertinently around every corner and pop-up ad, starting with Halloween. Before I dust off my plastic fangs and stage blood, though, I’m lining up my new favorite things: some for self-preservation; others for sharing or gifting—all integral to Life & Style! CHESS APPEAL It began in a London flat shared by architects Ian Flood & Chris Prosser, whose chess games turned into “whatif chess pieces were famous structures” sessions. And so Skyline Chess was born, tapping into their hometown with Big Ben rooks, London Eye knights, and King & Queen as Canary Wharf and the Shard respectively. NYC was next (World Trade Center King, Empire State Building Queen, etc.). Just launched: San Francisco, with more global cities in the works. The sets come in original, Premium and Luxury versions plus there’s a new NYC vs. London special edition! (Shipping time from the UK takes approximately 7 days.) Info: skyline-chess.com.
LIFE
A LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME Have kids? Dry skin? An aversion to germs? You are so covered thanks to one of this Fall’s greatest hits: Minnie by Olika, a literal bird-in-hand-sanitizer whose selling points add up to an on-trend addition to backpacks, suitcases, totes and vanities. The design is visually sweet, but it’s Minnie’s soothing ingredients (essential oils), savvy size (carry-on cool), longevity (500 sprays), that enticed me to stock up. Beyond affordable, Minnie comes in four color options: Robin’s Egg, Charcoal, Eggshell and Thistle. Info: olikalife.com.
TASTE QUEST I’m not a foodie—not even close, but now and again I‘ve been seduced by heavenly dishes and, on rare occasions, whipped up something in my own kitchen. Since discovering Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, however, I’ve been trolling the company website, downloading recipes, and attempting the unthinkable: actual culinary creations. It’s rather addictive, since the 110-year old company’s collection of extracts, pastes, sugars, etc. keeps growing, while always managing to maintain the level of quality prized by professional and superstar chefs. Outstanding. Info: nielsenmassey.com.
LISTEN UP
GOOD SPIRITS
Noise cancelling headphones— welcome words to those of us who share our world with garbage trucks, impatient drivers, barking dogs, barking people, music genres we’ve yet to embrace, and so on. Which is why it gives me great pleasure to introduce Mixcder E7 Active Noise Canceling Bluetooth Over the Ear Hi-Fi Stereo Headphones. Yes, it’s a mouthful, but these reasonably priced, comfortable headphones do it all, making them perfect for studying, meditating or just kicking back. And give it up for 20-hour battery life: Bluetooth, audio and hands-free phone calls. Info: mxcder.com.
To some of us, a distinguished single malt Scotch (18 years & up) is a siren’s song in a bottle. If it happens to be Glenfiddich Winter Storm, that song has fullblown opera potential. Part of the Glenfiddich Experimental series, this limited edition 21 year old, in its striking white ceramic bottle, has been finished in French oak ice wine casks. Its creator, Malt Master Brian Kinsman, says “a uniquely fresh lychee note” keeps overwhelming sweetness at bay. In the end, the fusion of sweet flavors with the ice wine creates a short and crisp grand finale. Only 650 9-liter cases were produced for select market so, feeling lucky? Info: glenfiddich.com
20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
STYLE DAS BOOTIES This winter I want luxury ski-lodge comfort at home and I want it to last until the thaw. Godiva hot chocolate… roaring fire (candles count)… in-home massage (Google Soothe)… comfy chair strategically placed to watch the marriage of snow and ice buildup outside… and warm, cozy everything, starting with my slippers, Hästens Down Boots. These babies offer the perfect combo of ingredients: lush 100 percent cotton satin weave filled with goose down and feathers with Hästens’ impeccable detailing. They even have their own duffle—very nice if, say, you’re traveling to an actual ski resort! Info:hastens.com
COVERT LIP SERVICE On an average out-and-about day I reach for my lipstick or lip balm as many as seven times, at least five of them requiring serious rummaging. So when word reached me of LILU Refillable Lip Care in Beautiful Jewelry I wanted to see for myself. Here you have elegant sterling silver or gold-plated pendants, teardrop or orbs, on 30” chains that go with pretty much anything. Within these lovely pieces is a secret compartment with a LILU Lip Balm Pearl, a soft, tinted insert made with natural and organic ingredients. I already have one, but am holding out for “more to come.” Info:lilulipcare.com
SPRAY IT AGAIN, SAM
ALL IN THE TIMING
So here we are, riding this millennial wave of amazing complexion advancements, and still battling dry and/or damaged skin. Newsflash: Alkaglam Hydrogen Mineral Spray, a new arrival already making its mark on the beauty industry. Inspired by the healing waters of Lourdes, France, this unprecedented product layers crystals and minerals in a sleek spray bottle (refillable up to a year with filtered aka bottled, Brita, etc.) water. Once activated, Alkaglam sets your makeup, hydrates with every spritz, reduces redness, and faces off against hateful aging demons. Prediction: Will it be the next big celebrity essential. alkaglam.com.
Attent ion for mer k ids , collectors, and fashionistas on the prowl for a fierce little bling thing: a decadesspanning, crystal-studded, Mickey Mouse timepiece has arrived on the Hammacher Schlemmer must-have scene! In the 1950s, owning a Mickey Mouse watch was a coveted r ite of p ass age – a r ig ht that’s built up to The Mickey Through The Years Rotating Watch. Boasting 12 iconic Mickey looks from Steamboat Willie through today, this sparkling homage is etched on the back with the message “Believe in the Magic,” which pretty much says it all. Info: hammacher.com.
TRESS TO IMPRESS Its vivid powder colors seem to have taken their cue from preschool tempera paints, while the sturdy tubeshaped bottles are topped with super soft magenta kabuki brushes, not unlike drum major hats. Yet once brush meets mineral powder and powder meets hair, the colors mellow into gorgeous pastels. This is the Rooflage Renagade line and, depending on one’s hair—or intent—the effect can be ombré, staccato streaks, root touch ups, or something bursting from your imagination. Fleeting, the color is temporary, but the process is fun and the end result is all original… all you. Info:rootflage.com/collections/renegade-colors. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 21
STYLE
MALE CALL
FALL ESSENTIALS FOR HIM By Anthony Stevens
ith Summer now a memory, it is time to admire the Fall Foliage as well as a new wardrobe. The fabrics and colors will warm your body and soul. Feel a need to upgrade your Fall look? Here, some classics which will never go out of style. BURBERRY ALFRED DUNHILL A classic Herringbone Top Coat in camel boasts a single breasted outer coat with flap pockets and button detailing on the sleeves. Info: dunhill. com; $2,795.
THE COAT
A re-imaged Long Kensington Heritage Trench Coat classic was made for modern day wear with Burberry’s signature waterproof gabardine. Drawing on the design elements of the original—born out of the need for a protective outer layer for soldiers during the World War I—it became part of history when worn by Humphrey Bogart in Casablanca. Info: us.burberry.com; $1,990.
THE SHIRT
TURNBULL & ASSER When the weather is turning cooler why not have the ultimate shirt built for the climate? This all new Cashmere Blend Shirt is available in seven colors, all with their exquisite attention to detail and quality. Info: turnbullandasser.com; $475. 22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
BARBOUR Barbour cut their teeth in the 19th century making clothing for fishermen and hardy folk before making the transition to the more fashionable set. The Sporting Tatersall Shirt is a signature style and is 100 percent cotton. Info: barbour.com; $69.
THE FOOTWEAR HUNTER Tackle the cooler, wetter weather with the Original Insulated Commando Boot made to beat the elements. Info: hunterboots.com; $195.
HARRY’S OF LONDON Modern men’s footwear craftsmen at Harry’s of London have created the comfiest Edward Suede Cognac Loafer for the Fall season. Featuring their Technogel 3D innersole for comfort this loafer will look every bit as good taking a stroll through the park or powering through a boardroom meeting. Info: harrysoflondon.com; $495.
I D P H D B W a
T A A $
B A o w
T T W a
B B S
T H T
THE KNITWEAR THOMAS PINK The Geoffrey Jumper of 100 percent merino wool combines both comfort and practicality in this zip-neck jumper from shirt maker Thomas Pink. Info: thomaspink.com; $225.
BEST MADE This Limited Edition American Bison Sweater is made with 20 percent hand-pulled bison fiber mixed with wool and alpaca sourced from Wyoming and turned into just 50 sweaters. It’s wonderfully soft! Info: bestmadeco.com; $398. •
H M T I
T T Th t
B Th a
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 23
STYLE
A REAL DEAL LUXE FOR LESS By Ruth J. Katz
hat you won’t find on our website,” states Richard Birnbaum, CEO of ShopWorn, “is the newest and greatest hits of a manufacturer. “But what you will find are incredible buys, many from, say, last season. What you will also find consistently, are winners.” ShopWorn, just two years old, is the brainchild of Birnbaum, who has worked in wholesale/retail and product-sourcing his entire career, focusing on the designer segment of the market. Years ago, he realized there was an extensive secondary market for luxury goods, and he began purchasing close-out designer clothing and accessories in the United States to export to retailers and distributors in Europe.
ESTABLISHING A MARKET
LUXURY AT ITS BEST
By 2000, he had expanded the product range to include high-end Swiss timepieces, and when he had sold over $100 million worth of those watches on several e-commerce websites, he knew he was onto a viable venue for shifting his business model. He could see that burgeoning sales on the Internet represented the future. He also realized that the high-end goods he had access to would have a much healthier marketplace there, and ultimately, ShopWorn.com was born.
A fast glance at the website reveals goods from nearly 75 luxury makers; among them are Fendi, Baume & Mercier, Audemars Piguet, Bell & Ross, Cartier, Tag Heuer, Roberto Coin, Mikimoto, Montblanc, Chopard, and Gucci, to name but a handful of the high-status brands with merchandise on the site. Expect to see the original prices alongside the ShopWorn.com highly discounted listing. We spied a Bulgari ring, cut over 35 percent; a wide variety of Cartier accessories slashed by just about 50 percent; Ippolita jewelry marked down by as much as 70 percent; Jaquet Droz watches reduced by 45 percent; and Dunhill accessories and writing instruments, cut by half, and more. The buzz about ShopWorn has gotten out, and as Birnbaum notes, the company ships to far-flung destinations, including Malaysia, Thailand, and the Gulf States. An added bonus: shipping is free.
Today, ShopWorn is arguably the only e-commerce site exclusively selling designer display-model watches, jewelry, and accessories from authorized luxury retailers from more than 20 countries around the world, culled from the globe’s most prestigious manufacturers and retailers. Products have not been pre-owned; they have only been gently handled in-store, in authorized retail outlets, and all products must pass a rigorous inspection process before being accepted for sale on ShopWorn. The authenticity, origin, and manufacture of merchandise are guaranteed. The buying team consists of experienced watch and luxury experts who curate the offerings, and given the nature of the business, the goods on the site are always revolving. 24 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
For more information on ShopWorn, visit shopworn.com. © 2018 Ruth J. Katz All Rights Reserved •
MOVADO
FOR HER
Bold Stainless Stell Quartz Ladies Watch ($195).
IPPOLITA Rock Candy 18K Yellow Gold Multi-Colored Stones and Mother of Pearl Bangle Bracelet ($3,000).
FOR HIM
PIAGET Altiplano 18K Rose-Gold Chronograph Flyback Men’s Watch ($15,700).
DUNHILL Black Carbon Fiber Fountain Pen with 18K Nib ($240).
CARTIER Men’s Black Leather and Stainless Steel Belt ($295).
GUCCI Pink Stardust 18K Rose Gold Necklace ($1,800).
ZILLI CRIVELLI
Blue/Silver Tie and Pocket Square Set in 100 percent silk ($99).
18K Rose Gold Diamond Earrings ($7,384).
S.T. DUPONT Black PVD Coated Stainless Steel Lighter Cufflinks ($115).
CHOPARD Imperiale Blue Leather Handbag with Signature Round Chopard Logo ($725).
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 25
STYLE
PRETTY IN PINK By Ann Lawlor
ctober—the month dedicated to breast cancer awareness, when hundreds of women go the extra mile to spread the message via regular check-ups. Pink is the flagship color of the campaign so here are great ways to celebrate women.
In support of the Breast Cancer Campaign, The Estee Lauder Companies will donate a percent of the purchase price from these products to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).
AERIN
BECCA
BUMBLE AND BUMBLE
Rose Lip Conditioner Set AERIN is proud to support breast cancer research with a limited-edition Rose Lip Conditioner Set, featuring our bestselling Rose Lip Conditioner in two classic shades: Nude and Garden Rose. Skin conditioners help nourish lips with a signature rose scent. Donation: 100 percent. Info: Aerin.com; $50
Shimmering Skin Perfector® Pressed Highlighter The iconic, award-winning highlighter—a creamy, luminizing powder creates an unparalleled glow. Comprised of mineral pearl blend and a unique liquid and pigment formula, the silky texture melts into skin for a sophisticated, pearlescent finish. Donation: $8. Info: BeccaCosmetics.com; $38.
Bb. Thickening Spray Bumble and bumble dressed up the popular spray with a limited-edition pink design. This spray is an essential for all hair types, and creates lasting lift and volume. Donation: 20 percent. Info: bumbleandbumble.com; $30.
CLINIQUE
ESTÉE LAUDER
ESTEE LAUDER
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+ Each year, Clinique offers a special, limited-edition bottle of its Dramatically Di f fe re nt Moistu r i zi ng L ot i on+ , which provides all-day hydration with strengthening ingredients for a younger, softer skin. The limited-edition version is adorned with a Clinique key ring with five charms, including the Pink Ribbon. Donation: $10. Info: Clinique.com; $39.
Powerful Pink Contour & Highlight Minaudiere The evening minaudiere concept has been taken to a new level with a clutch that features a pressed powder blush, bronzer, and highlighter, and has a separate holster on the outside to hold a lipstick. The clutch has a chain strap that makes it easy to turn into a chic evening bag and features three limited edition pressed powder shades: Rosy Glow Blush, Sculpting Bronzer, and Luminizer Highlighter. The Pure Color Lipstick is in Candy. Donation: 20 percent. Info: EsteeLauder.com; $75.
Pink Ribbon Pin Inspired by Evelyn H. Lauder, who founded the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® in 1993, the Pink Ribbon Pin makes a beautiful statement for all fashionable woman. A touch of blue in the design represents the less than one percent of men who are diagnosed with breast cancer. Donation: 20 percent. Info: EsteeLauder.com; $12.50 •
26 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
— S A R A T O G A C O U N T Y, N Y —
What did
YOU
do this weekend?
We offer some of the most beautiful fall foliage in the Northeast. Take a drive into the southern Adirondacks and around the Great Sacandaga Lake. Enjoy scenic train rides or explore one our three State Parks. Pick the perfect pumpkin, visit a winery, or fill up on delicious fresh apples at an orchard. Experience history, museums, culture, championship golf courses and so much more.
518-584-3255 • ilovesaratoga.us
TRAVEL
FALL FOLIAGE GETAWAYS 6 ROAD TRIPS FOR LEAF PEEPERS By Patricia Canole
all Foliage is here! And one of the best ways to take in Mother Nature’s spectacular show. This year, why not hit the road to include your specific interests? Whether you’re a foodie or a thrill-seeker, a museum lover or looking for a family-friendly getaway, there’s a fabulous trip out there with your name on it. Read on for some fall road trip suggestions.
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 29
CULINARY DELIGHTS HUDSON VALLEY, New York Located in Hyde Park, The Culinary Institute of America is one of the country’s top schools. After a tour of the campus—be sure to visit its terrace offering sweeping Hudson River views— dine in one of its restaurants such as the farm-to-table American Bounty and the modern French Bocuse Restaurant. Throughout the Hudson Valley, you can visit farmer’s markets to buy local produce as well as familyowned orchards, where you can pick your own apples (and don’t forget the cider donuts!). Stay & Dine Aside from finedining restaurants, the CIA also has a few casual lunch spots, including Apple Pie Bakery Café. The menu features bountiful salads, salmon tartines and quiches (be sure to save room for dessert). A convenient and comfortable place to stay is the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel, a quick drive from the school. For more information on the Hudson Valley, visit travelhudsonvalley.com.
Culinary Institute of America
Omni Mount Washington Resort
ADVENTURE THRILLS WHITE MOUNTAINS, New Hampshire Bikers and hikers will love this region loaded with scenic trails that take you beside cascading waterfalls and covered bridges. With its many rivers, streams, and lakes, the White Mountains also offer plenty of aquatic adventures including whitewater rafting and kayaking. Still, crave more adventure? Then sign up for a Bretton Woods Canopy Tour, a three-hour excursion that takes you across a series a treetop zip lines—a beautiful trip in spring and summer, but even more so when the leaves have turned. Stay & Dine The Omni Mount Washington Resort, built in 1902 by mining magnate Joseph Stickney, is one of New England’s classic resorts. Located in Bretton Woods and overlooking 6,288foot Mount Washington, the hotel features several restaurants, a spa, and a spectacular 900-foot veranda. For more information on the White Mountains, go to visitwhitemountains.com.
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ANTIQUE TREASURES THE BERKSHIRES, Massachusetts The rural region is not only a prime leaf-peeping destination, but it’s also known for its many antique shops, especially in the southern Berkshires. In Sheffield, Painted Porch Antiques and Cupboards and Roses Swedish Antiques are two favorite shops, while in Great Barrington, the Great Barrington Antiques Center has 50-plus dealers under one roof, selling everything from American quilts and antique clocks to estate jewelry and 19-century furniture. Additionally, as you head north on Rte. 7, you’ll find even more shops to browse. Stay & Dine In Great Barrington, it’s worth the wait for a table at Baba Louie’s to sample the wood-fired pizza, while Allium is a finedining restaurant with a farm-to-table menu. Stay at Seven Hills Inn which comes complete with acres of terraced lawns and manicured gardens. The inn serves a gourmet brunch on weekends. For more information on The Berkshires, visit berkshire.org.
GRAPE ESCAPES FINGER LAKES, New York Finger Lakes Wine Country has been recognized as the Best Wine Region by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2018—with good reason. With its 11 lakes stretching across 14 counties, it is home to more than 140 wineries. This picturesque landscape entices visitors from around the globe to discover orld-class wine, award-winning craft beverages, historic communities and is the perfect backdrop for year-round outdoor recreation. It’s hard not to be charmed by the tiny village of Aurora on the eastern shore of 37-mile Cayuga Lake, the longest of the Finger Lakes. Here you find Long Point Winery, overlooking the lake. Also take a turn at Bet the Farm, a small tasting room and market selling New York State products like cheeses and chutneys. Another spot to explore is Knapp Winery on the lakes northwestern corner. Sample dry Riesling in its rustic tasting room. Take the time to visit Seneca Lake where you will find Chateau LaFayette Reneau perched on a hillside. It’s one of the prettiest settings imaginable to sample wine. Stay & Dine Located on the southern tip of Skaneateles Lake is Mirbeau Inn & Spa, one of the Finger Lakes’ most popular properties. All rooms feature wood-beamed ceiling and gas ceilings. Borrow one of the inn’s bikes to explore: Browse the shops, visit the historic sites, and brave the lines to lunch on a fish sandwich at Doug’s Fish Fry. For dinner, try The Krebs restaurant in a meticulously restored 1899 house. Enjoy a superb menu of oysters and duck, along with incredible local wines. For more information on the Finger Lakes, go to visitfingerlakes.com. Finger Lakes
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 31
CULTURE FLOURISHES BRANDYWINE VALLEY, Pennsylvania/Delaware The Brandywine River Museum, housed in a former mill in Chadds Ford, is known for its collection of paintings from Andrew Wyeth. Another must-see is the 1,000-acre Longwood Gardens, created by industrialist Pierre DuPont in 1910, with fabulous gardens and decorative fountains to admire. In nearby northern Delaware, be sure to take a tour of Winterthur, the former 175-room estate of the DuPonts, with its glorious gardens. During this time of year, marvel at the riot of fall colors from its multitude of beech, ash, maple, and dogwood trees. Stay & Dine Lunch at Hank’s Place, a mom-and-pop diner with hot sandwiches, burgers and Greek dishes, and Brandywine Prime, serving steaks and seafood, make great options. Overnight at the Brandywine River Hotel, a few minutes’ drive from the Brandywine River Museum and Chaddsford Winery. For more information on the Brandywine Valley, visit and brandywinevalley.com. The Inn at Erlowest ©Tom Wall Photography
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTINGS ADIRONDACKS, New York In the village of Tupper Lake is the Wild Center, a nature-focused non-profit museum. One of its biggest draws—and one the kids will love—is the Wild Walk, 1,250-feet of elevated trails across the treetops, which in fall, is quite magical. In Lake Placid, there are endless hiking trails, including family-friendly Cobble Hill, which offers fabulous views. In Lake George, you can take a replica steamboat cruise, sample craft beverages along the Adirondack Craft Beverage Trail, or browse the many farmer’s markets for some one-of-a-kind treats. Stay & Dine In both Lake Placid and Lake George, there are plenty of familyfriendly restaurants—not to mention ice cream shops. Lodging-wise, Lake Placid’s award-winning Mirror Lake Inn is superb as is the Crowne Plaza Lake Placid. Accommodations in Lake George are just as stellar: a stay at The Inn at Erlowest is what dreams are made of. For more information on the Adirondacks, go to visitadirondacks.com. • Crowne Plaza Lake Placid
32 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Tom Wall Photography
The Inn at Erlowest Inspired Cuisine. Elegant Lodging. A luxurious Inn and AAA 4 Diamond farm-to-table restaurant with breathtaking views of Lake George. Our beautifully-appointed Grand Ballroom is the premiere event facility in the area.
MAKE YOUR RESERVATION
OPEN YEAR ROUND
3178 Lakeshore Drive | Lake George, New York 12845 | 518-668-5928
www.theinnaterlowest.com
TRAVEL
RED BANK, NJ
A RIVERSIDE TOWN WITH SPIRIT By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva
ed Bank is often referred to as The Gateway to the Jersey Shore. But when most shore towns lose the summer crowds and excitement, retreating into their sleepy winter modes, Red Bank keeps its buzz. The town’s spirit and charm beckon visitors throughout the year. Don’t let the tranquil Navesink River setting fool you. Red Bank is a bustling town with a lively arts & culture scene, plenty of great shopping, and a wealth of upscale restaurants and casual eateries. A three-time winner of the People’s Choice Awards for Best Downtown Arts District by Discover Jersey Arts, Red Bank offers visitors a variety of galleries, antique shops, and two award-winning performing arts theaters.
Red Bank Train Station
SEE & DO Two River Theater, celebrating its 25th Anniversary this season, develops and produces excellent American theater created by today’s most adventurous artists. The Count Basie Center for the Arts is a world-class venue for arts education, culture, and the performing arts. Some famed artists, including locals such as Bruce Springsteen and Count Basie himself, have graced the stage of Basie Center. (Did you know Count Basie was born in Red Bank?) Galleries abound in Red Bank, both traditional and contemporary. Check out Beacon Fine Arts Gallery, Chetkin Gallery, Art Alliance of Monmouth County, and Detour Gallery. Antique hunters will find plenty of chances to browse at Red Bank Antique Center, Stillwell House Fine Art & Antiques, and Riverbank Antiques and Interiors. The walkable central downtown district has a wide variety of shopping venues with a mixture of national brands and local mom and pop shops. A favorite shop for comic book fans is Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash, which serves as a shooting location for AMC’s Comic Book Men. Red Bank has a variety of special events throughout the year, such as its Food & Wine Walk, Guinness Oyster Festival, and International Beer Wine & Food Fest. The summer months are especially busy with Jazz in the Park, Movies in the Park, Street Life, and Red Bank Rocks events. OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35
BEST STAYS One is charming and historical; the other is hip and contemporary— both offer outstanding panoramic views of the Navesink River. Whichever hotel you choose for your visit to the popular town of Red Bank, NJ—the Molly Pitcher Inn or its sister property, The Oyster Point Hotel—you’re sure to enjoy your stay in comfort and style. Both properties are located near the abundance of cultural, shopping, and dining options that led to Smithsonian Magazine’s recognition of Red Bank as one of the top three of the publication’s Best Small Towns in America. Marina - Molly Pitcher Inn
The Oyster Point Hotel Here’s a contemporary boutique hotel built directly on the banks of the Navesink River. The hotel’s 56 guest rooms have a hip, chic style and offer fabulous panoramic views of the river. The Oyster Point offers the same complimentary amenities as the Molly Pitcher but does not have a pool. Mornings might be an excellent time to enjoy your complimentary coffee while strolling the lobby and other common areas of the hotel to view the gallery of artwork produced by local artists. 36 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Molly Pitcher Inn Designed in the Federalist style, this gem was built in 1928 by a group of Red Bank residents to resemble Philadelphia’s Independence Hall. Starting with the luxurious white marble lobby, the hotel, together with its classic Navesink Dining Room and 106 first-class guest rooms appointed with a touch of Old World grandeur, exudes a feel of history and elegance. The Inn affords guests a wellequipped fitness center, a firstclass marina with overnight slips or Dock & Dine facilities, complimentary parking, and complimentary coffee and muffins each morning. Oyster Popint Hotel
ON THE MENU There are many great dining choices in Red Bank, but we loved the idea of dining with views of the Navesink River. Both hotel’s in-house restaurants have not only picturesque waterfront dining, but also offer outstanding cuisine with tantalizing menus.
Molly Pitcher - Dining
We decided to have dinner at Pearl, the Oyster Point’s main restaurant (just a two-minute walk from the Molly Pitcher) where the menu features contemporary American cuisine. We recommend the Sweet & Spicy Gazpacho, an unusual combination of sweet yellow tomato and a spicy red tomato chilled soup. Follow with the favorite Oyster Point Baked Oysters, Pearl’s scrumptious version of Oysters Rockefeller with spinach, bacon, garlic, leek, and Havarti cheese. For the main course, try the Cast Iron Seared New Jersey Sea Scallops with tuxedo orzo, asparagus & onion bacon jam, or Faroe Island Citrus-Glazed Grilled Salmon with jasmine rice and baby spinach. Both were perfectly prepared and presented. Pearl presents an inviting blend of upscale elegance and relaxing casualness. A jazz trio entertains on Saturdays from September through May. Pearl is open all day and offers a Happy Hour menu as well as Saturday and Sunday Brunch. The following day we set our appetites to a delicious breakfast at The Dining Room at Molly Pitcher Inn. Here we indulged in Crab Benedict (one of three Eggs Benedict choices) and Stuffed Brioche French Toast while enjoying panoramic views of the river. From October to mid-June the Inn offers its award-winning Sunday Brunch. Since 1996, it’s been named the Best Brunch by The Asbury Park Press. The Inn’s International Bar with its rich mahogany bar also presents an elegant setting while offering a sophisticated yet lighter fare. The Dining Room also offers lunch and dinner featuring fresh seafood and prime meat choices. Some menu options include Grilled Berkshire Pork Chop, Roasted New Zealand Rack of Lamb, a Honey & Ginger Glazed Salmon, and Seared Diver Sea Scallops. A guest favorite is the Seafood Pie, a combination of shrimp, scallops, and lobster in a light creamy bisque. Oyster Point - Pearl Restaurant dining
GETTING THERE Traveling to Red Bank is easy. The town is just one mile off Exit 109 on the Garden State Parkway. NJ Transit’s North Jersey Coast Line trains and the Academy Bus Line also serve Red Bank, while the town is an easy ride from the terminals of the Seastreak or New York Waterways ferries. For more information on Red Bank, visit redbank.org. For more information on the Molly Pitcher Inn visit themollypitcher.com; The Oyster Point Hotel, visit theoysterpointhotel.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 37
TRAVEL
WASHINGTON, D.C. A WEEKEND FAMILY GETAWAY By Stacey Zable
or families with children just starting to understand our history to teens who are more vested in the democratic process, Washington, D.C. offers attractions that keep any age interested. These two hotels set the stage as ideal spots to come home to after a day of exploring. FAIRMONT Washington, D.C. Georgetown A $27 million Fairmont Washington, D.C. Georgetown renovation completed last year included the lobby, lounge and courtyard, and all guest rooms and suites. Designer Amanda Jackson, of Dallas-based Forrest Perkins, used the design and color scheme from the geometry of an aerial view of Washington. The result is felt immediately upon entering the large lobby, with its multiple seating areas. The geometric pendants hanging from the ceiling in the center of the lobby are an instant conversation starter. Throughout the hotel, from the lobby to guest rooms, artwork reflects a real sense of place and the city’s history in subtle and interesting ways. There is also plenty of natural light and an abundance of plants seemingly bringing the outdoors in.
Courtyard
The lobby looks out onto the hotel’s urban courtyard garden, a beautiful outdoor space in the midst of the city. Seating in clusters adds to the cozy feel here as well, as do fire pits and a new water feature. The urban courtyard is the site for numerous events, from Oktoberfest to a holiday outdoor ice skating rink, so ask the hotel about what might be happening during the time you are there. Dining is available during most of the year in the courtyard and cocktails year-round thanks to the fire pits in the winter months. The hotel’s Juniper Restaurant off the lobby offers three meals a day, including a substantial breakfast buffet to start. Double Queen beds for families are among the choices of the property’s 413 spacious guest rooms. Guests get free use of the Balance Gym and includes an indoor pool that the kids will love, cardio-and-strength training equipment, and a choice of fitness classes morning to night. Located in the West End area of Washington, D.C., the luxury property is a 15-minute walk to the Georgetown for a choice of shopping and dining options. You can also visit Georgetown University for those who might have the college on their wish list. The area—which is upscale residential in feel—also has its own restaurants if looking for a meal closer to the hotel. It is a short walk to Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle, the two nearest metro stations. Info: fairmont.com/washington. 38 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
Washington Embassy Row Another option for families is the Courtyard Washington Embassy Row. Located near Dupont Circle and close to many family-friendly restaurants, the 149-room Courtyard offers comfortable guest rooms with double Queen beds that will fit a family of four nicely. There are also guest rooms with two Queens and a sofa bed for larger families. An indoor pool is a hit with young travelers visiting the city any time of year. There is also a whirlpool and 24-hour fitness center located on site. The newly renovated lobby makes a good family meeting spot. Nage Washington is Courtyard’s casual restaurant serving American cuisine. The reasonably-priced a la carte menu allows everyone to fuel up on breakfast before hitting Washington, D.C.’s streets for sightseeing. Though Dupont Circle is a major metro stop, the hotel is within a two-mile walk of many of the city’s top sites, including The White House only half-mile from the property. Info: marriott.com/hotels/travel/wasem-courtyardwashington-embassy-row. For more information on Washington, D.C., visit washington.org. •
5 FREE FAMILY ATTRACTIONS
5 FREE FAMILY ATTRACTIONS The White House Plan in advance to request a free, self-guided tour of the White House through your local Congressman’s office. Even if you don’t get to tour the inside of the White House, you can still see the exterior. Info: whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/ tours-events. Bureau of Engraving and Printing The tour explains how our nation’s money is printed and offers a glimpse into the presses. During non-peak season (September to March), you don’t need tickets and can show up when you want to go. Sorry, no free samples! Info: moneyfactory.gov/washingtondctours.html. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum The self-guided tour of the Permanent Exhibit spans three floors. Reserve timed passes in advance for the permanent exhibit online if visiting from March 1 to Aug. 31; otherwise no reservations required. The museum is best for older children. Info: ushmm.org. Lincoln Memorial The Lincoln Memorial is 190 feet long and 119 feet wide and reaches a height of almost 100 feet. Looking at the massive monument as well as the view from it out over the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is especially impressive all lit up at night. Info: nps.gov/linc/index.htm. U.S. Botanic Garden Catch the colorful new exhibit “Wall Flowers: Botanical Murals” that just may change how you view plant life. Large-scale murals from local artists will showcase plants through vibrant colors and detail, highlighting the vital role that plants play in urban environments, not just rural ones. Located in Bartholdi Park, this is a wonderful chance to admire botanical art in one of the country’s most amazing gardens which runs thru October 15th. Info: USBG.gov. The Smithsonian Museums Collectively called the Smithsonian Institution, this world-renowned museum and research complex consists of 17 museums, galleries and a zoo. Each one is free to enter, and across the spectrum, you can learn about the origins of man, the wonders of art, the history and future of flight and so much more. Here, some favorites: • The National Museum of African American History & Culture Lincoln Memorial • National Museums of American History • National Zoo • National Museum of Natural History • National Portrait Gallery • Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden • National Museum of The American Indian • National Postal Museum • National Museum of African Art • The Castle: Smithsonian Institution Building Info: washington.org/smithsonian-institution-museums. OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 39
TRAVEL
MUSIC CITY U.S.A. FUN TIMES IN NASHVILLE By Jenny Peters
hey call Nashville “Music City” for good reason, as this vibrant Southern town jumps all day and night. And while visitors to this Tennessee capital city might think that it’s all about country music here, one trip will both cement that notion on the one hand, and explode it on the other. That’s because Nashville truly is the heart of American country music, which it proves every day with attractions like the beautifully realized Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. That’s a massive structure right in the heart of town that celebrates all that the genre has to offer, from historical exhibits and fascinating current installations like “Outlaws and Armadillos: Country’s Roaring ‘70s,” which runs through 2021, to Elvis Presley’s “Solid Gold” 1960 Cadillac that’s been on display here since 1977.
COUNTRY’S ICONS That’s a must-do stop in Nashville, as are three more worldclass museums, all within an easy walk of one another. Hit The Johnny Cash Museum on Third Avenue, a place that overflows with memorabilia and the music of the Man in Black, then head right upstairs to immerse yourself in the short yet beautiful life of Patsy Cline at her own museum. There you can see her handmade costumes, gold records and even get a glimpse of her house’s rec room, exactly as it was in the 1960s. Wander over to Second Avenue to find the George Jones Museum, where that towering figure in country music is celebrated, right down to the tractor/lawn mower he so famously drove drunk for miles to get more booze in the 1960s. His often raucous, always interesting life is on display here—warts, top awards, four wives and all. To make some slightly raucous memories of your own while in Nashville, finish up your museum tour on Honky Tonk Highway—the strip of live-music clubs all along Broadway, for some always free live music that goes from 10 am to the wee hours every day. Hit famous clubs like Nudie’s, Legends Corner and Nashville Crossroads, where country, blues, and even some rock ‘n’ roll tunes turn every day into a party. 40 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Nashville Skyline Night River
MUSIC & MORE To experience the iconic Grand Ole Opry, however, that bastion of county music that’s been broadcasting a live radio show since 1925, you’ll have to travel over 10 miles out of downtown Nashville. Since 1974, the Opry has been out in the suburbs (near the outlet mall), putting on shows every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday that feature country legends.
Gaylord Opryland
The lesser-known side of Nashville’s music scene runs the gamut of genres, as the city has long been the Mecca for songwriters. And not just those in the world of country, like Brad Paisley, Garth Brooks, and Keith Urban, but all across the board. Taylor Swift started here, and talents ranging from blues master Keb’Mo’ to heavy metal songwriter Desmond Child, rock-anthem writer Brett James and top pop-song composers Claude Kelly and Busbee all call Nashville home. Nashville is also considered the birthplace of Bluegrass. Check out the small clubs for alternatives to country; and look to the venerable Ryman Auditorium, the Ascend Amphitheater, and the Bridgestone Arena to see big music acts from every genre while visiting Music City. Be sure to take a ride a few miles out to the Bluebird Café, too. That little 90-seat venue has been showcasing the city’s most famous tunesmiths for the past 50 years and is now owned by the Nashville Songwriters Association International. Make a reservation to guarantee your seat for this must-do Music City experience; you never know who might turn up at the Bluebird.
Hermitage Hotel
Put the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum on your Nashville to-do list, too, which encompasses all genres. See the many fascinating recording studio exhibits (think Muscle Shoals, Stax and more) and even have a try to make music of your own very cool interactive area where visitors can create music and learn how to produce sound as well. Music City’s Broadway
EAT, DRINK, STAY There’s plenty to do in Nashville beyond the music, starting with gobbling up some of the city’s famed hot chicken with a distinctly spicy bent. Find it at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack in East Nashville, where “mild” means hot and “extra hot” will blow your head off, or at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken in Midtown, where you can try it at the no heat level all the way to “burn notice.” Bite into some classic Southern BBQ at Jack’s Bar-B-Que right in the heart of Broadway’s Honky Tonk Highway; it’s just a cafeteria-style place, but that Pulled Pork Sammy is to die for! Or check out the Q at the Wildhorse Saloon, where you can have a cocktail and music with your ribs. Fine dining is also found all around the city, from the Capital Grille at the Hermitage Hotel downtown to the Little Octopus found in The Gulch district and Rolf and Daughters in Germantown. For a luxurious place to rest your music-filled brain, stay at the brandnew JW Marriott Nashville, a skyscraper filled with comfortable rooms-with-views that also boasts Chef Michael Mina’s organic Bourbon Steak up on the 34th floor, where you can drink and dine high above the city streets. Old school fans will like the Hermitage Hotel, downtown since 1910; for a hipper vibe, try the Thompson Hotel Nashville or the SoBro Guest House. But remember, a musicfilled nightlife is what Nashville is all about, so don’t plan to see much of your bed while visiting. For more information about Nashville, go to visitmusiccity.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41
TRAVEL
HAIL TO THE QUEEN CROSSING THE POND IN STYLE By Ruth J. Katz
trip to your local supermarket might include a gallon of milk and a five-pound bag of flour. However, if you’re the executive chef of the Cunard Line’s regal Queen Mary 2 ocean liner, then your shopping list (for a seven-day transatlantic crossing) might include: two tons each of sugar and rice, some 32,000 eggs, 50 tons of produce, 13 tons of seafood, and 50,000 gallons of milk (which includes soy, almond, skim, cream, and half and half). Imagine the logistics of getting these provisions on board in a timely, seamless fashion, then inventoried and stored in the more than 20 refrigeration and freezer rooms (yes, rooms). OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 43
With a passenger manifest of over 2,500, and a crew population of 1,300 (from nearly 60 nations), the more than 150 chefs on board whip up almost 16,000 meals a day! And did we mention that the cooks prepare fresh homemade dog biscuits for the canines on board in what is arguably the world’s only transatlantic kennel? On my crossing, there were 21 dogs in tow, and from the kennel manager, I learned that one pampered pooch has sailed well over 30 times with Cunard, giving fresh meaning to the phrase “lucky dog.”
A FLOATING PALACE How fortunate was I, that I didn’t have to think about those logistics of the galley—all I had to do was eat! And with a dozen restaurants offering tempting and delicious fare, that decision was easy to bear. Regrettably, for me, on day one I discovered where the three, self-service, soft-serve ice cream machines were located! That meant, of course, I had to find and use the well-equipped gym. I also “had” to submit to muscle-pampering at the finely appointed, 20,000-square-foot Canyon Ranch Spa onboard. Your only other job is to enjoy yourself, and that is way too easy on this floating palace of play. The most natural thing to do is read, of course, and the QM2’s generously stocked library has over eight thousand books (and a charming shop) in case you left your e-reader at home. On a balmy morn, I staked out a cozy aft nook and languidly read (appropriately enough) The Boys in the Boat. One afternoon, I visited the planetarium (yes, planetarium) for the show Wildest Weather in the Solar System, and it was truly stellar and enlightening (emphasis on the lightening)! And, to my delight, there were two other planetarium shows I could view later in the week. Britannia Restaurant
44 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Veranda 22
NON-STOP ENTERTAINMENT There is a continually revolving menu of lectures with outstanding onboard experts, whose topics range from submarine espionage to a talk by a World War II Polish Freedom Fighter. I even took a few computer courses in the ship’s digital epicenter, ConneXions. Nights are lively with polished Broadway reviews with Royal Cunard’s Singers and Dancers, or concerts, or intriguing entertainers, like the aerial acrobats, Massimo & Alesia, and of course, the casino. Days flew by, and I never even got to participate in the trivia contest or take advantage of the driving range, putting green, and clichéd shuffleboard. Two musts: An audio tour of the exhibit Maritime Quest, highlighting fascinating bits of Cunard history, punctuated by captivating photos; and afternoon tea, with heaps of delicacies and delices. (On a typical sailing, QM2 blasts through 26,000 tea bags!) While most crossings are between New York and Southampton, I chose a longer one originating in Red Hook, Brooklyn terminating in Hamburg, Germany. It afforded me the opportunity to take the ship’s excursion during a day stop in Le Havre, to the moving and hallowed grounds of our serene American cemetery in Colleville-Sur-Mer and to see Omaha and Utah beaches, a truly extraordinary experience. All in all, I cannot wax poetic enough about the Cunard experience—the delightful dinners, the serenity at sea, and Cunard’s signature White Star service. I will let the QM2 toot her own horn: Her red-and-black whistle funnel is a vestige of the original Queen Mary (retired in 1967), and her basso profundo can be heard for ten miles! For more information on the Queen Mary 2, visit cunard.com. • Atrium Lounge gesamt
Public rooms entertainment - Illuminations Planetarium
HAMBURG’S FONTENAY Gliding blissfully across the ocean on the Queen Mary 2 is an indulgence, for sure, but how comforting to know that upon arrival in Hamburg, yet another equally gratifying treat was awaiting me: The much anticipated, five-star Fontenay Hotel. The property, designed by Hamburg-born Jan Störmer, is a bold and visionary structure, with an exterior shell covered in thousands of white porcelain tiles, reflecting adjacent Lake Alster. Constructed in the form of undulating, intertwining circles, there are scarcely two parallel walls in the organic-shaped structure. Every detail—from the custom-made furnishings (extra-long beds from German maker Schramm Werkstätten) down to the earthy, felt covers for the obligatory notepad—has been carefully curated and edited. The rooftop, wraparound bar is a true destination for locals and guests and the Lakeside restaurant, presided over by executive chef Cornelius Speinle (whose own restaurant, Dreizehn Sinne, in Schlattingen, earned a Michelin star in a year), is second to none in town. My favorite dining spot though was the Parkside outdoor terrace. Why? Yes, of course, the food, but moreover, because my server, Dennis Boller, remembered daily every quirky thing I wanted with my breakfast. The spa is another delight, with nearly 11,000 square feet for cosseted pampering. Next time in Hamburg, this magnificent hotel should be where you hang your (Miesbacher) hat.
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 45
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
alkrallis@gmail.com globaltravelparadiseisland.com
TRAVEL
GRAYCLIFF
THE CARIBBEAN’S BEST-KEPT SECRET By Clint Brownfield
t may be hard to believe that a hotel like Graycliff can still be found in the Bahamas today. Not only for its luxurious accommodations and awardwinning restaurant, but the delightful experiences as well. A far cry from those nearby mega-hotels and all-inclusive resorts, this hidden treasure will undoubtedly transform your getaway into a memorable escape—and is reason enough to visit the Bahamas. Here, guests are offered some of the best and most genuine hospitality they may ever experience. Graycliff is family owned and operated—purchased in 1973 by Enrico and Anna Maria Garzaroli, who run the hotel, restaurant, and various other enterprises, along with the much-valued help of their son and daughter and a devoted cadre of dedicated staffers. Guests very quickly feel like members of the family—many returning year after year to be indulged by the Garzarolis. OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47
THE HOTEL The colonial mansion was built in 1740 by Captain John Graysmith, a famed Caribbean pirate who plundered ships to gain a bounty of treasure. Years later, in 1776 it became headquarters for the American Navy, and centuries later during Prohibition was owned by a good friend of Al Capone.
Luxury Room A
Today, Graycliff offers guests a tranquil respite from the casinos, lively nightlife and busy Bay Street— Nassau’s shopping and business hub. You may give up the beach views but will gain a lushly landscaped and secluded environment, which features two private pools and entertaining and dining spaces. Since the hotel is virtually next door to Government House, the official residence of the Governor General of the Bahamas, Graycliff ’s gardens are frequently used for official receptions. For those who feel the need to soak up some rays, arrangements can be made for guests to enjoy beach privileges. The same goes for golfing and popular attractions in Nassau and nearby Paradise Island. The hotel’s 20 guest rooms and suites, in the main house and the gardens, are all individually decorated with antiques and fabrics, that blend with the house’s historic past and elegance. All feature complimentary Wi-Fi access, private baths, and luxurious amenities. Since history runs deep here, request the room once occupied by Winston Churchill himself.
WINE & DINE This small hotel treasure, a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is home to Graycliff Restaurant, the Caribbean’s first 5-star restaurant. It’s a destination unto itself, where you might find yourself dining along a headliner on Lobster or Rack of Lamb. Is that Beyoncé and Jay-Z? They’ve been known to fly in and out of Nassau just to dine at Graycliff. But A-lister or not, everyone is treated in the same very gracious and friendly manner.
Graycliff Afternoon Tea
48 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
One of the reasons that the restaurant has become such a mecca is not just for its sublime food, but it also sits on top of what is believed to be the largest wine collection in the world. Garzaroli has amassed more than 250,000 bottles, and guests are offered complimentary tours of the cellars, which also contain the oldest known bottle of drinkable wine in the world, a 1727 Rudesheimer Apostelwein from Bremen Ratskeller in the Rheingau Region. It’s offered on the restaurant’s wine list for $200,000. Prospective customers are warned that they must pay for it—no matter how it tastes.
GRAYCLIFF ADVENTURES To sit and chat with Enrico is a real treat. His knowledge of wine, food, hospitality, the Bahamas (and the world) is remarkable and any time you can spend with him makes for one of the most memorable experiences you may ever encounter as you continue to travel the globe. It’s also here guests and visitors alike can experience some exciting adventures too.
Chocolatier Shop
Bahama Barrels Here’s your chance to take part in wine mixing sessions offered in the Chapel. Guided by a California winemaker with nearly 20 years of experience, participants learn to blend their wine by sampling different varietals and then mixing them to create their own specially labeled bottle. to take home. Before departure, you can still enjoy hospitality at the Graycliff Lounge ($10 plus VAT entrance fee or complimentary with Priority Pass). Graycliff Chocolatier It’s a chocoholic’s dream come true. Here guests can learn how to make their own chocolates, sample the wares—and (if you must) purchase more to eat later or take home to family and friends. Free tours are offered daily. Cigar & Cognac
Graycliff Cigar Company Because Garzaroli could never find the “perfect” cigar; he founded the Graycliff Cigar Company. Production began in 1997 with a single roller in the foyer of the restaurant and has now expanded to the award-winning boutique Cigar Company with 16 master rollers—each an expert in the art of cigar making. Five brands are currently being produced, and guests are welcome to observe these experts as they roll away and also invited to take lessons. Tours are offered daily along with very popular cigar and rum pairing sessions. Don’t be concerned by all this activity— none of it interferes with the tranquil setting of the hotel and restaurant. The secluded grounds are designed so that everything blends together without one experience infringing on another’s quietude. If you yearn for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of New York, why not book a stay at Graycliff? She’s waiting along with a snifter of cognac just for you. For more information on Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant, visit graycliff.com. •
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49
FEATURES
THROUGH THE LENS Photography By AnnieWatt.com
THE COUTURE COUNCIL OF THE MUSEUM OF FIT HONORS NARCISO RODRIGUEZ
Dr. Joyce F. Brown, Narciso Rodriguez, Dr. Valerie Steele
Sharon Jacob, Elizabeth Musmanno, Tinamarie Clark, Julie Macklowe, Narciso Rodriguez, Yaz Hernandez, Leticia Presutti, Fe Fendi, Maria Fishel
Darcy Rigas, Michele Gerber Klein
Karen Klopp, Jack Lynch, Hilary Dick
Eleanora Kennedy, Dr. Joyce F. Brown, Marha Stewart
Liz Peek, Joan Hornig
Maria Fishel, Thomas Tolan, PJ Pascual Fern Mallis, Babi Ahluwalia
Arthur Elgort, Carole Divet Harting
Jean Shafiroff, Rebecca Seawright, Muffie Potter Aston, Patricia Shiah, Ann Van Ness, Margo Langenberg, Louisa Benton
50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Valerie Simpson, B. Michael, Amelia Ogunlesi
Charles Miers, Barbara Tober
11TH ANNUAL GREENWOOD CEMETERY GALA
Richard Moylan, Alexander Bernstein, Nina Bernstein Simmons, Payson Coleman
Carla Shen, Allie O. Sweeney
Peg Breen, Simeon Bankoff
Supreme Court Justice Kathy King, Edward King Richard Moylan, Gloria Moylan, Jamie Markowitz, Marty Markowitz
Deanna Tempro, Benjamin P. Feldman
Alexander Bernstein, Nina Bernstein Simmons
Tina Fallon, Victoria Alexander, Jesse Alexander Earl D. Weiner, Arlene Bascom
Anne Kreamer, Kurt Andersen
Lark-Marie Anton, Allison Zysman
Wendy Chittenden, Pamela McCarthy
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51
ASIA SOCIETY’S “SEASONS OF INDIA” 2018 GALA
Nauman Piyarji, Farida Khelfa Kiran Nadar, Sunil Hirani, Agnes Hsu-Tang Shayne Doty, Susan Gutfreund, H.H. Prince Tikka Raja Shatrujit Singh ji of Kapurthala
Ram Rajadhyaksha, Amy Rajadhyaksha, Vikram Rajadhyaksha, Janet Rajadhyaksha, Patsy Ostrander
Lucy Lee, Sana Sabbagh, Gator Greenwill Boon Hui Tan
Oscar Tang, Agnes Hsu-Tang, Lily Duchess of Marlborough, Edgar Batista Carey Fieldcamp, Gloria Fieldcamp, Mark Gilbertson Robert Oxnam, Josette Sheeran, Dr Zehra Jumabhoy, Vishakha Desai, Sanjita Jindal
Brian Fisher, Joanna Fisher
Hari Sreenivasan
52 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Sana Sabbagh, Sangita Jindal
JACQUELINE WELD DRAKE HOSTS THE PACHANGA LUNCHEON
Gabriel Rivera-Barraza, Andrea Casanova, Bella Eastham, Jacqueline Weld Drake, Halim Bulos
Ann-Hunter Van Kirk, Fabiola Arias
Halim Bulos, Hason Greene Mary Snow
Bella Eastham, Andrea Casanova
Michelle Karut, Henry Lord Boulton VI
Atencio Coromoto, Elizabeth Jacoby Fabiola Arias, Jacqueline Weld Drake
Henrique Cisneros, Gabriel RiveraBarraza
Jacqueline Weld Drake and Pachanga luncheon guests
Alicia Lubowski-Jahn, Sabrina Wirth OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 53
LAURA LYLE FAN CLUB NYC BUDDY WALK! AND ANDREW LYLE’S A TEAM FOR AUTISM SPEAKS
Cicely Forde, Eldon and Walter Evelyn Frank Sawyer, Debbie Morris and her daughter, Sofia carrying the team banner Andrew Lyle and the A Team
Jeffry Kallen, Dede McMahon, Ryan McMahon Laura Lyle joining the MC Chris Ragge and gang to kick off the Buddy Walk 2018
Logan Rosado, Sheri Nixon, Solange, Andrew Lyle, Matthew and Andrea Nixon, Janee Morales, Benjamin Rosado, Coralyn Rosado
Tracy Nixon, Hakan Ergulec, Laura Lyle, Lee Shoulders Lucy Nixon and Ari Beriguete Tracy Nixon, Andrew and Laura Lyle
Arnold Lewis, Louise Contino, Lucy Nixon, Scott Gutterman
Laura Lyle, Debbie Morris, Sofia Morris, Mikaila, Karen Hara, Emery Brown and Laura Brown
54 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Peter and Angelique Fisher, Joyce Mackay
JEAN SHAFIROFF HOSTS COCKTAILS FOR THE NY WOMEN’S FOUNDATION
Alice Hsu, Sayu Bhojwani, Sharon Soloff Ellen Polansky, Margaret Morrison Jean Shafiroff, Ana Oliveira
Michele Herbert, Heather Shemilt
Alexandra Sacasa, Gilda Sacasa, Madeline Lamour Holder
Ngozi Okaro, Sayu Bhojwani
Vivienne Peng, Roxana Mckinney Lola West, Hilary Roberts
Alison Lazareck, Cinnamon Chamber, Erika Ryback, Zoe Bogan, Jennifer Giacobbe, Madeline Lamour Holder
Lindsay Jackson, Dawn Marie Grannum, Kathleen Giordano, Nadia Martinzic
Rebecca Seawright, Ardella McClarty
Lee Fryd, Dr. Penny Grant, Natalie Ross
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. OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 55
FEATURES
APP-SOLUTELY FABULOUS NOTEWORTHY APPS FOR NEW YORKERS By Bailey Beckett
ilicon Valley has long been the breeding ground for new tech, especially apps, but New York is increasingly seen as an essential laboratory to test new platforms. From Glam Squad, which connects users to beauty treatments on-the-go, to Via, the fast-growing ride-sharing choice, the Big Apple has born some of the biggest names on your Smartphone. “New York is the most important market but hasn’t traditionally been an incubator for new tech. It’s a short runway, you need to take lift instantly,” said Beth Feldman, a prominent New York media executive who has worked with brands like Pinterest. “But there’s no shortage of talent and money, and the audience is near captive. That’s why you’re seeing more come out of the city.”
ROMIO Seizing on those opportunities is a new app called Romio, which combines category-specific services like babysitting, dog-walking, fitness training and handyman into one easy-to-use platform. Developed by tech entrepreneur Tarik Sansal, the app launched in March and already offers 1,200 unique services from a bench of 3,500 pre-qualified providers. “We have distinguished more than 100 locally and nationally known experts in their field to recommend only the best,” said Sansal. “You cannot get listed as a service provider unless you’ve been personally invited. It’s the anti-Craigslist.” Among its stable of experts are parenting authorities Lyss Stern and Cherie Corso, as well as prominent veterinarian Lisa Lippman and yoga guru Kristen McGee. Thanks to them, users can find an extensive collection of service providers, including Anna Wintour’s dog groomer Laverne Campbell. “We like to say we’re bringing trust back online,” Sansal says. “We’ve done the homework for you, so you don’t need to worry about who’s watching your kids or walking the dog.”
Tarik Sansal
WOMAZE
Building its repertoire of talent took more than a year and a lot of lobbying. “As experts, we all have national profiles and lending that credibility to an untested app takes a lot of convincing,” said Corso. “But they did it smartly: quality begets quantity. There are some great services on Romio, and you can book and pay from your phone.” For more information on Romio, visit romio.com.
While Romio may give you peace of mind, a new app for women provides peace in general. Womaze, also available on Apple and Android devices, is a national platform that features female-centric channels about body image, career, relationships, self-care, spirituality, mental health, sexuality and more—perfect outlets for New Yorkers dealing with the hustle and bustle of the city. Additionally, subscribers can find content geared toward their specific moods, many of which are curated by thought leaders, entrepreneurs and celebrities like self-help eminence Nitika Chopra and handbag designer Rebecca Minkoff. Founded by Corin Wiser and her three daughters, Becca (21), Leah (21) and Hannah (17), the Womaze idea arose out of the Wisers’ sharing videos, articles, and quotes in their morning group chat, which they sent to friends. Before long, the exchanges went viral, and the family had a business. “New Yorkers are very busy people,” explains Becca. “To have a place to escape all the noise of the web (and the world) and mindfully scroll through content that leaves you feeling better can be life-changing. Especially in an emotionally, socially and politically charged climate. “Movements like #MeToo and Times Up have shown that women are more fired up than ever,” said Becca. “More and more women are sharing their stories, raising their voices, and—in turn—creating social change. We built our platform for women to feel supported, inspired, and empowered so we can go out and build our world.” For more information on Womaze, visit womaze.com. • 56 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
FEATURES
TECH TALK
NEW & NOTEWORTHY PHONES By Will Red
n the technology calendar, Fall is punctuated by the annual iPhone product announcements from Apple which in turn kick-starts the industry push into the holiday season. If your cell phone is out of date, or up for contract renewal, here are some new products to consider. APPLE SAMSUNG Xs, Xs Max, Xr iPhones Launched last month in their annual presentation, Apple has built on the revolutionary features of the iPhone X into the newest additions to their range. The Xs is their flagship cellphone which builds on the features of the 2017 iPhone X. The Xs Max has the largest screen and battery life of any iPhone to date, while the Xr (pre-ordering starts October 19th) has some of the features of the iPhone X and Xs in a more economical package. The new Apple Watch Series 4 also has an array of health and exercise functionality plus (depending on the model) the ability to receive and make calls, just like Dick Tracy. Info: apple.com.
Galaxy S9 & Note 9 The Samsung Galaxy S9 and Note 9 phones, Tab Tablet and Galaxy Watch are all designed to keep Samsung as the primary alternative to the Apple eco-system utilizing the Android operating system from Google. While industry and consumers wait for next year’s Galaxy S10 phone, which will be rumored to have all kinds of special features, the latest release to hold consumer interest is the larger Samsung Galaxy Note 9. Featuring an integral stylus as a tool reminds us of the Palm Pilots and Psion handheld computers of yesteryear. However, it being integral to the device makes it useful and convenient. Info: samsung.com.
LG
PUNKT
SIRIN LABS
G7 ThinQ With the LG V40 due for release this month, the Samsung Galaxy S9 challenger using the Android operating system is LG’s G7 ThinQ. The key selling point for the G7 is that it is reliable, middle-of-the-road and for the budget-conscious consumer a solid purchase. Info: lg.com.
MP02 Launched last month at the London Design Festival, Swiss-based company Punkt launched the second version of their anti-smartphone—the MP02. Featuring a minimalist design centered on making telephone calls and basic functionality such as 4G LTE connectivity, an address book and text messaging, the MP02 adds hotspot connectivity so that you can use the phone to access the web through another device—making it a choice rather than a reflex through an app. Battery life is excellent due to its simplicity and built-in quality is what you would expect from a Swiss-engineered device. Info: punkt.ch.
Solarin Concerned about your data falling into the wrong hands? For the ultimate in 2018 cellphone security try the Swiss-Israeli Sirin Labs android-based smartphone called Solarin. The phone also supports 24 LTE Bands and has 802.11ag gigabit WiFi capability. The catch? The price point of $14,000. Take heart: Sirin Labs will be launching the Finney—a blockchain-based phone for $999. Info: solarin.com. •
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57
THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE Distinctive Collection by Better Homes and Gardens® RAND REALTY offers the service and market experience you expect from a brand whose legacy was built upon a passion for the home. Let us help you find or sell yours, visit: RANDREALTY.COM
LUXURY LIVING IN ARMONK, NY
This one-of-a-kind, mid-century estate has custom artistic and architectural elements throughout. Every room facing the private lake has amazing views of nature, which will make you feel like you’re living in your own park. A large stone terrace, lake cabana, and dock, along with acres of rolling lawns, wooded areas, and gardens, make this the perfect sanctuary. $3,000,000 MLS# 4835150 | White Plains, 914.328.0333 Alfonso Vanacoro, Real Estate Associate Broker William D’Ambrosio, Real Estate Salesperson ©2018 Independently Owned and Operated by the Rand Family.
SCARSDALE, NY Renovated from top to bottom, this Center Hall Colonial is located in the Greenacres section of Scarsdale. Close to the village, Scarsdale and Hartsdale train stations, library, and schools. Upscale finishes with private backyard. Open-floor plan. House wired for full automation, radiant heat, closed insulation, original fireplace in family room that carries through to the upstairs. Bar area in dining room. Walk-up attic. All new roof, gutters, siding, electric, plumbing, footings, underpinnings, foundation, sewer system, drainage, heating, and air. Bring your designer and use your imagination to customize the kitchen and bathrooms to your taste. $2,975,000 MLS# 4828041 | White Plains, 914.946.8000 Richard Gutner, Real Estate Associate Broker
UPPER NYACK, NY Hudson Riverfront Contemporary with separate two-bedroom guest house. This 9,764 square-foot home has panoramic river views from almost all of the rooms, plus access to the river. Features include a first-floor master bedroom suite, plus five other bedrooms and a formal dining room. All floors are connected by an elevator, as well as a staircase. Home boasts three fireplaces and multiple decks overlooking the Hudson. The ground-floor entertainment space features a bar that seats 35. The hot tub, sauna, and fireplace complete this area, and a wall of glass doors opens onto the in-ground pool with waterfall, Jacuzzi, and diving board with river views. $2,800,000 MLS# 4811833 | Nyack, 845.358.7310 Nancy Blaker Weber, Real Estate Associate Broker
BEDFORD HILLS, NY This Contemporary sits on 4.3 acres of lush property and offers 7,800 square feet for the main house. The entry foyer brings you to a living room with two-sided fireplace and an abundance of exposure to natural light. The gourmet kitchen has amenities that include a pizza oven, sliders to patio, butler’s pantry, and more. Formal dining room. Family room has a wet bar and fireplace. Media room. Three powder rooms and a three-car garage complete the main level. The pool has a patio with bar. The pool house has two bathrooms, kitchenette, living room/bedroom, and a large deck overlooking a koi pond with fountain. The putting green and the tennis court complete the property. $2,575,000 MLS# 4837735 | New Rochelle, 914.576.1112 Scott Cohen, Real Estate Associate Broker
NEW CITY, NY Nestled on nearly two acres of majestic landscaping, this stately residence provides a two-story marble entry with a sweeping staircase. Formal living room, dining room with butler’s pantry, spacious family room, and library/office with beautiful cherry cabinetry throughout. Kitchen offers top-quality appliances and breakfast nook. The second floor features master bedroom suite and three additional bedrooms, all with en-suite baths. Lower level has guest quarters and media room. French doors on main level lead out to a bluestone patio. Entertainment area with grill and bar. Waterfall and koi pond. Other features include tennis court, saltwater pool, and detached guest quarters. $2,295,000 MLS# 4841369 | Pearl River, 845.735.3020 Raissa Reid, Real Estate Associate Broker ©2018 Independently Owned and Operated by the Rand Family.
TUXEDO, NY This six-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom home has been renovated with three new baths, hardwood floors, and more. Foyer borders living room, great room, and kitchen. Great room features a fireplace. Kitchen has granite countertops and wine cooler. Formal dining room has wet bar. First floor also has a bedroom suite with full bath. Living room leads to expansive deck. Master bedroom is a two-room suite with master bathroom that includes many features, such as a sauna, soaking tub, state-of-the-art steam shower, and radiant floors. Third-floor office/nanny quarters has full bath. Plenty of light throughout. $1,295,000 MLS# 4820850 | Suffern, 845.357.6662 Mary Ann Mitchell, Real Estate Associate Broker
PARK RIDGE, NJ Magnificent new construction. Walk into a two-story entry foyer that’s bordered by a formal dining room and living room with gleaming hardwood floors and crown molding. The spacious family room with fireplace flows into the gourmet eat-in kitchen with stainless-steel appliances, center island, and a walk-in pantry. The main level also has a bedroom/office with a full bath and access to a two-car garage. Upstairs includes a master suite with two custom closets and a master bath. Three additional bedrooms with custom closets, two baths, and laundry room complete the second floor. Enjoy a 270-foot-deep backyard, upper deck, and lower patio. $1,175,000 MLS# 1837085 | Closter, 201.660.8800 Lorraine Montalbano, Real Estate Broker Salesperson
OLD TAPPAN, NJ This Center Hall Colonial stuns with a circular driveway. From there, you enter into a two-story foyer. Every room has been painted, designed, and staged for the first impression, including a great room with a vaulted ceiling, stone floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and opens to an outdoor patio. The kitchen has been recently transformed with a modern edge, but maintains a classic design, plus you’ll find a beautiful master suite and master bath. Additional amenities include a full wet bar, wine cellar, and gym. All hardwood floors. $1,168,000 MLS# 1826110 | Closter, 201.660.8800 Attilio Adamo, Real Estate Broker Salesperson
CHESTER TOWN, NY This Contemporary Cape Cod home offers luxury living with a gated entrance, circular driveway, and sprawling grounds with beautiful waterfall, ponds, gardens, and patios. Stunning design and decor. Soaring ceilings, gorgeous millwork, and hardwood flooring throughout. Craftsmanship with luxury fittings and incredible attention to detail. First-floor master bedroom suite includes a fireplace and access to a separate raised patio for perfect sunset views. Outdoor shower, kitchen, and stone fireplace. Finished lower level with walkout includes a wine-tasting room/cellar, full bath with private room, plus two recreation rooms and an abundance of storage space. $1,050,000 MLS# 4821654 | Goshen, 845.294.7227 Christina Rowan, Real Estate Associate Broker ©2018 Independently Owned and Operated by the Rand Family.
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
107 EAST 61ST STREET
MODERN INFLUENCES MEET EUROPEAN FLAIR By Patricia Canole
ownhouses occupy a unique place in the New York City psyche, as one of the city’s most prototypical signposts—like yellow cabs and fast walkers—and undoubtedly stir an aching desire to own. Thousands of these structures can be found in the five boroughs, row after row, painting historical patterns on the face of this city. You might say it’s a living artwork. And like any beautiful piece of art, it delights and captivates.
Terrace
One such work of art can be found at 107 East 61st Street, where sophisticated European influences combine with modern architectural flair. Located just off Park Avenue, the six floor home makes complete privacy possible with over 8,500 square feet of living space. The 19th-century meticulously designed home provides beautiful areas for formal and informal entertaining, with spaciously proportioned rooms, high ceilings, and incredible light. Another added feature: A private garage (equipped with a lift to accommodate two cars). This added convenience can only be described as priceless. OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 61
107 East 61st Street
COMFORTABLE ELEGANCE
The ground floor has a brand new kitchen and state-of-the-art entertainment room, including a window wall overlooking the approximately 40-foot sky-lit saltwater swimming pool on the floor below. Additionally, the lower spa level boasts a spacious gym, sauna, full bath and Jacuzzi at poolside. The upper floors feature 7 spacious bedrooms and 10 baths—all impeccably designed. For large scale entertaining, this extraordinary property has a duplex penthouse with a loft-like living room, skylit dining room, a new top of the line chef ’s kitchen, and a southfacing terrace with impressive views of Park Avenue and the iconic Manhattan skyline. The penthouse is accessed by a modern sculptural staircase running through the center of the building, as well as an elevator serving all six floors. With excellent security, best-in-class entertainment systems, and exquisite contemporary design, this remarkable townhouse is one of the hottest properties available uptown, downtown, or anywhere in between.
IT’S ALL HERE
The residence, situated on the north side of 61st Street is in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Manhattan. The Upper East Side is home to Museum Mile, Central Park, the East River Esplanade and the city’s largest concentration of public and private schools. Galleries, boutiques, renowned restaurants, and specialty food shops are the hallmark of this prestigious community. Townhouses in New York City are certainly the most extraordinary real estate in the city. And at $19.5 million this address is definitely an investment into a lifestyle and above all privacy. For more information on 107 East 61st Street, contact Thomas Wexler at Leslie Garfield (212-448-7474 or tw@lesliegarfield.com. • Lower Level Living & Entertainment
62 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
“Pines Lake” Wayne, NJ
I Proudly Suppor Friends of Laurelwood A Beautiful lakefront home with an inground pool that overlooks the lake! This spacious home features soaring ceilings in many rooms and walls of windows to capture the view! The 2 story entry foyer opens to the 2 story living room with a dual fireplace and flows into the family room overlooking the lake. There are doors to the rear patio and pool. The kitchen with an island and breakfast bar opens to the lovely dining area with a wall of windows framing the view. The formal dining room, a billiard room and a den complete the first floor entertaining / living space. A second floor master has a stunning view, a private deck, a walk in closet dressing area PLUS a new bath. An adjacent bedroom connects to a bonus room, plus there are 2 additional bedrooms, a full bath, 4 car tandem garage and waterfront dock. Enjoy the Pines Lake lifestyle! Offered at $1,425,000
I Proudly Support the “Lynn Carole Friends of Laurelwood Arboretum International Presid Top 1% World Carole “Lynn” CallBrescia Direct: 201.8 International President’s Premier www.lynnbresc Top 1% Worldwide
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Carole “Lynn” Brescia
Carole “Lynn” Brescia
International President’s Premier Top 1% Worldwide International President’s Premier Call Direct: 201.848.3202 www.lynnbrescia.com Top 1% Worldwide
More photos at lynnbrescia.com
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Hartford Lounge Collection in walnut
Timeless designs from traditional to modern. Visit our Manhattan showroom to view more. THOSMOSER.COM/N Y · 212.753.7005
FREEPORT, ME
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REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
AROUND TOWN UPPER EAST SIDE By TJ Johnson
ang for your buck—words you wouldn’t think when describing the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Considering a move to the Upper East Side? You’ll definitely be in good company. A LITTLE HISTORY Upper East Side
In the 1920s, The New York Times described the East Side as “a string of pearls: Each pearl is a double block of millionaires, and Madison Avenue is the string.” Like everything else about New York, the Upper East Side has been altered by time. But there are few places in the city where memory is as intact as on the blocks bounded by the East River, Fifth Avenue and East 59th and East 96th Streets. Until the close of the Civil War, this was the part of New York where the fashionable gathered to escape city summers—the counterpart of today’s Hamptons. Mansions in park-like settings followed the shore of the East River all the way to Harlem. The Boston Post Road (now Third Avenue), made access to the city below Canal Street convenient, and summer residents with lots of leisure time traveled downtown on steamboats. By the late 1860s, with Central Park now opened, the summer houses were converted to year-round use for pioneering commuters and, a few years later, the coming of elevated railroads opened the area to working-class people. Society had its heyday on the East Side between 1895 and the outbreak of World War 1. The state of American architecture was superb at the time, and the super-rich had the financial resources to buy the best. Years have passed, of course, with many changes to these East Side streets. Nevertheless, an air of privileged—often luxurious—lifestyle still prevails. The neighborhood continues to be what it has been for nearly a century: New York City’s elite enclave where families like the Rockefellers and Kennedys once called home.
64 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
THE NEIGHBORHOOD
High-end shops and galleries line the streets of the Upper East Side. And for those who need a break, there are great restaurants on nearly every corner. But more than anything, the Upper East Side is noted for their museums showcasing some of the most important works in the world. Better known as Museum Mile along 5th Avenue it’s worth a day just exploring the beautiful paintings, sculpture, and other works of art. Shops If shopping is your thing then the Upper East Side is the place to be! With the iconic Barneys on Madison Avenue, and Bloomingdales just a block away, as well as Louis Vuitton, and Hermès to name a few, you’ll be in retail heaven! Museums The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an absolute treasure and boasts over two million works of art that span thousands of years. Also not to be missed is the Breuer (part of the MET) that mainly focuses on modern and contemporary art. The Guggenheim Museum Make your way to our next stop simply known as The Guggenheim. Often described “the museum of non-objective painting” with such a large collection, they had to send Frank Lloyd Wright a letter to commission the design of the building. The museum has continually expanded over the years and has remarkable retrospectives of major modern artists. One of my favorite paintings there is the Yellow Cow by Frank Marc. Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum Part of the Smithsonian Institution, it is located in the Andrew Carnegie mansion. The Georgian-style mansion was designed in 1903 on the northern fringe of the well-heeled stretch of 5th Avenue. The richly ornamented rooms of the mansion sometimes compete with the exhibitions; the conservatory is particularly pleasant. The museum is steadfast on showing only historic and contemporary design. The Jewish Museum This renovated museum holds the country’s largest collection of Judaica. Besides permanent and rotating exhibits, it has classrooms, a delightful kosher café, and an attractive book and gift shop.
Fine Fare Now it’s time to grab a bite to eat! So many restaurants to choose from.
Boqueria If you enjoy tapas, I would recommend this place where the food is always amazing along with great ambiance. Caffe Buon Gusto Feeling like having some Italian food? There are many to pick from but this is my favorite. Pastas are absolutely terrific! Tao Uptown In the mood for Asian then a must is this eatery for their excellent cuisine and amazing service. Café Boulud And if it’s French your wanting, there’s no place like this elegant restaurant. Chef Daniel never disappoints.
WHERE TO CALL HOME
Believe it or not, there are actually great price points for everyone in the Upper East Side. There are your Art Deco and luxury apartments, breathtaking townhouses, and beautiful pre-war co-op buildings. My team and I have several listings available one of which is truly amazing. The first is apartment 9D, a beautiful, prewar one bedroom residence at 155 East 91st Street. The layout here is absolutely perfect. Accenting the flow of the apartment are the picture-frame moldings, tray-beamed ceilings, and gorgeous hardwood floors; the asking price is $685,000. You’ll find Bosch appliances and an amazing Smeg oven in the windowed eat-in kitchen. The asking price if $685,000. An apartment of this caliber would easily go for over a million in Greenwich Village. The Upper East Side is an amazing place to reside. If you feel that it sounds right for you, my team and I are here for all your buying and renting needs. Like I said, there is a price point for everyone with apartments starting as low as $350,000 all the way up to an $88 million Townhouse. Thelonious “TJ” Johnson is a licensed broker with Brown Harris Stevens, has teamed up with Ogden Starr, and enjoys sharing his tips on his favorite city. If you are looking for a residence in the Upper East Side—or anywhere else throughout Manhattan—contact him for any of your buying or selling needs. Visit bhusa.com/real-estate-agent/thelonious-tj-johnson. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
SPOTLIGHT DON PEEBLES By J.P. Elston
e’s a self-made real estate mogul who has built an empire. Yes, for Don Peebles, it’s been a long and winding road to success. He grew up in Washington, D.C. the son of a car mechanic. His mother worked in real estate and is no doubt where he took notice of the industry. As a teenager, he began volunteering for political campaigns, and served as a page on Capitol Hill in high school. He left college after a year to work as a real-estate agent and, later, a property appraiser. His Washington connections both in politics and the close-knit world of real estate certainly helped fuel his ascent. Then, in 1987, he broke ground on his first building. Today, his company, Peebles Corp., with offices in Washington D.C., Miami and New York now spans a multi-billion-dollar portfolio of condo projects, hotels and office buildings. Add to this he’s the author of top-selling books, The Peebles Principles and The Peebles Path to Real Estate Wealth, a regular guest host on CNN, CNBC and FOX in addition to a highly sought-after speaker who has addressed educational, business and professional audiences across the United States. New York Lifestyles wanted to understand more about Don’s own path to real estate development success and some lessons for others who might follow in his footsteps. 66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Don Peebles Office
Did you always know you wanted to be a real estate developer? No. As a senior in high school, my plan was to become an orthopedic surgeon, invest in real estate to build wealth and potentially enter into politics. I attended Rutgers University as a pre-med student. I dropped out after my freshman year and moved back to Washington D.C. to work as a real estate agent and appraiser. By the age of 23, I sat on the district’s tax appeal board, a group of individuals who review the city’s property assessments. The following year I became its chairman. The chairmanship made me an instant serious player in the Washington, D.C. commercial and political arenas.
Katrina, Don Peebles
What sets The Peebles Corporation apart from other real estate developers? We are a national developer who seeks to use the business not only as a neighborhood and city transformer but an economic opportunity transformer. Our focus is on large scale public-private developments. Our projects currently under development range in cost from $100 million to $1.3 billion and combine for a total approximately $3.6 billion. We use our business to provide economic and career opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses and professionals. This focus, along with our national foot print and entrepreneurial structure, makes us a very unique business. What has been your recipe for success in real estate? Think big, make your money on the buy side, build strong business and financial relationships and never quit. Number one: each setback is an opportunity in disguise. In business and life we will all experience setbacks; when they happen don’t be a victim rather see the opportunity. You have moved around with your family quite a bit. You have lived in Washington, D.C. and Miami, and you currently reside in New York City. Have you found relocation challenging? While moving comes with its challenges, it also comes with great opportunity. The relocations have allowed my family and me to make life more of an adventure. We have all made and maintain lasting relationships in each of those cities as well as the Hamptons where we have had a vacation home for over a decade. Real estate tends to be a local business. These relocations have provided the foundation for us to become the large scale national development concern we are today. We hear you were recently awarded a site in Los Angeles. Is this your first project on the West Coast? Angels Landing is our first development project in Los Angeles. Although we previously conducted business in San Francisco, we’re very excited about Angels Landing. It’s also given me the opportunity to partner with my friend, Victor MacFarlane, who is someone I admire for all he has accomplished in the real estate and private equity space. We have the opportunity to build a totally transforming project consistent with our values. The project which will contain approximately 2 million square feet, is our largest project to date, and once completed, it will boast the tallest residential building in the Western U.S. standing at slightly over 1,000 feet tall and 88 stories high. The site will include two luxury lifestyle hotels, 425 luxury rental apartments (including affordable housing units), approximately 125 ultra-luxury condominium units, an elementary charter school serving K through grade 5, nearly 45,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space, and more than 50,000 square feet of publicly accessible open space. Los Angeles, particularly Downtown Los Angeles where our project is located, is experiencing tremendous transformation. Similar to other cities in the U.S., Los Angeles is becoming a more walkable and transit-oriented community where people can live, work and play in the same community. Any other exciting projects breaking ground soon? We will be breaking ground this fall on the SLS in Washington, D.C., our luxury hotel and condominium project consisting of 176 rooms and suites and 34 luxury condominium apartments. We are excited to bring a fresh concept to my hometown and I’m working with my son who is leading the development and was also born in DC. How do you find a balance between your work and your personal life? My wife, Katrina, and children Donahue III and Chloe, are always my priority. I make it a point to be as involved as possible in my family life by spending as much time with them as possible at our New York City townhouse. During the winter months, we love to spend weekends at our Miami home, and during the summer, we retreat to our estate at the East End of Long Island. For over thirteen years my daughter has been a very active equestrian and my wife and I have tried to attend most of her shows. Now that you have achieved success, what drives you to continue? My family is my driving force. I also want to continue being an agent of change. I am passionate in the continued struggle for gender and racial equality. Equality in educational and economic opportunities is the very foundation of real equality and the resulting selfreliance. This goal has led me to strongly consider seeking political office such as mayor of NYC or Washington, D.C. My business success has provided me with the great opportunity and freedom to challenge and change our systems to dramatically improve the lives of underserved youth. My developments have provided me the platform to promote equal access to economic opportunities to minorities and women by choosing how I build and what I build. My company calls this affirmative development. I see these areas as the responsibility of all businesses. For more information on Don Peebles and The Peebles Corporation, visit peeblescorp.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
LESS IS MORE
MAKING THE MOST OF SMALL LIVING SPACE By Ben Paciello, General Manager of BoConcept Madison Avenue
iving in one of the highest priced real estate markets in the country, many New Yorkers are used to living with less. It’s impossible to forget the first time you tried moving your suburban couch up five flights of stairs. Or the first time you tried to fit four season’s worth of clothing into a closet that’s meant for just one. So. as New Yorkers, we adapt. We donate some of our clothes and know that the next time we move, the couch is getting picked up from the sidewalk on trash day. But even after clearing out some of the clutter, it can still be challenging to make a small space feel like home. As a design expert at the luxury furniture retailer BoConcept on Madison Avenue, I help consumers to maximize space—even the smallest areas. Here, some of my top tips in your quest to get the most from small spaces.
COLOR IS KEY Utilizing color properly can make your space feel larger. I recommend using a monochromatic color palette to add space to a room by creating a harmonious flow and allows for your eyes to move uninterrupted throughout the area. One simple and often inexpensive recommendation I like to make is to paint one wall a darker color. It makes the room feel more spacious. Another option is to use a monochromatic color scheme, utilizing three different colors all in the same family. This can be accomplished by mixing different textures and patterns to again, make it more appealing to the eye. The same impact can be made using a piece of furniture. While you might be nervous about committing to a bold colored couch, using a smaller piece like a chair is a great way to add interest and show off your personality. Similarly, using different patterns like quilting or ruching create excitement for the eye and create depth in your small space. 68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
MULTI-FUNCTIONAL PIECES Find pieces of furniture that are multi-functional. This is a great way to ensure your space still functions the way you want it to while giving you the space to breathe and be creative. BoConcept offers a number of multi-functional pieces, like a coffee table that can expand into a dinner table or accent chairs that can also act as dining chairs. Keep in mind, furniture placement is critical. Often, studio apartments do not have walls to separate the different areas of the apartment, so, using furniture is a great way to section off the space while keeping it open and airy. Another solution for multifunctional Purchasing, a piece like a gate-leg table or an expandable table that has self-storing extensions, allows the table to be perfectly compact to avoid taking up too much space but gives the flexibility to expand when needed. Another option to optimize space is to purchase a storage bed. Hidden beneath the mattress can be all of your off-season clothing, bedding, or any other small items! This creates much more space for living as well as entertaining. With an already small space, a storage bed is key in successfully creating an open feel. There’s no need to take up space with bulky furniture when you can maximize your space with minimal pieces.
LIGHT IT UP Lighting can completely change the atmosphere, ambiance, and utility of a space. Many apartment buildings have one or two windows, leaving little to no natural light. A dimly lit room can not only be depressing, particularly during the winter months in New York, but it can also make an already small room feel even smaller. Purchasing a simple pendant light and positioning it near the dining table or the arm of your sofa brightens the space and is easy to move around when needed. Creating an area with more light leads to a brighter and more spacious feeling room. Think of ways your furniture can be rearranged to adhere to where your lights are located in your apartment. Whether you have wall sconces, standing floor lamps, or both, you can create a space that is lit beautifully while maintaining its functionality.
ABOUT Since opening its first franchise in Paris in 1993, BoConcept has become a global leader in the design of bold, stylish furniture around the world. Founded in Denmark in 1952, the company remains focused on creating functional furniture for the urban consumer through partnerships with the world’s leading interior designers. For more information on BoConcept, visit boconcept.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 69
REAL ESTATE & YOUR HOME
THE GADGET GUY SMART SECURITY FOR YOUR HOME By Mark Pelligren
aking sure your home is safe—and smart— is usually at the top of the list for both new renters and long-term dwellers. And while crime statistics may be down, it’s good to know you can always keep an eye on your apartment, pets, and possessions—even if you’re away.
August
That’s where today’s powerful smart security devices come in. These devices are the perfect fit for a city home and can easily fit within the average budget. Check out our top solutions and learn more.
NEST
NestCam
NestCam There is a plethora of different smart security cams on the market, and most will do a good job of keeping an eye on your door or living space and letting you know if there’s any suspicious activity. Today’s cams typically use a motion sensor (programmed to ignore pets, etc.) that will automatically turn on the camera and send an alert to your phone so you can look at the livestream and make sure everything is okay. Most versions can save a certain amount of footage for later evidence if necessary. Our favorite option is the NEST Cam, with its high-definition feed and excellent night vision, along with compatibility with all the other Nest products. Info: nest.com.
AUGUST 2nd Generation Smart Lock Smart locks are becoming particular popular for city dwellings. In fact, many NYC landlords have already made the switch to smart locks that you can control with an app, unlock from afar, and monitor to see when the lock is being used. It’s worth checking to see if you can have one installed. They are an excellent security device, can be sturdier than most traditional key locks, and let you make sure that your door is always locked, even if you forget about it on your way out. Most of these locks also come with proximity sensors or key fobs that will automatically unlock for you to save a little time. If you are installing your own, the August 2nd Generation Smart Lock is well reviewed and fits on most doors. Info: august.com.
CANARY
FIRST ALERT
All-In-One Devise Have a small apartment but still want good smart security? Take a look at Canary’s All-In-One Devise that does a little bit of everything. You can run smart video, use a two-way speaker for communication, monitor air quality, and detect people all at the same time – with the ability to turn on a siren even when you aren’t at home. It’s a great compact security solution for those in temporary apartments and tiny spaces! Info: canary.is.
Motion Sensor Light Socket Worried about the thought of someone in your apartment unnoticed? This indoor motion sensor light could be exactly what you’re looking for. First Alert’s Motion Sensor Light Socket screws into a traditional incandescent light socket (so you don’t have to worry about compatibility). You then screw in a compatible incandescent bulb or fluorescent bulb, and the socket will automatically flip on that light when it senses movement. It’s the ideal solution for keeping a casual watch on your apartment for unexplained happenings—or just making that one dark closet feel a little safer than it does right now. Info: firstalert.com.
Canary
70 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Mark Pelligren has been fascinated with gadgets for his entire adult life, with a passion for keeping up with the latest in robotics, gadgets, games and more. He eats, breaths and lives technology, then reports to you. •
First Alert’s Motion Sensor Light Socket
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MONEY MATTERS
STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS
6 TIPS TO GET YOU OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT By Eric Czepyha, BNY Mellon Wealth Management
tarting a business can be an exhilarating experience. However, it’s easy to get stuck in the stress of trying to manage a business and your finances. Here, six ways to get started. THE RIGHT BUSINESS STRUCTURE SEPARATE BUSINESS & PERSONAL FINANCES Familiarize yourself with the various business structures and determine which one will work best for your business and financial situation. The most common business structures in the U.S. are corporations, limited partnerships and limited liability companies. Each business structure has its own pros and cons, eligibility requirements and tax consequences, and the structure you ultimately choose can have a significant impact on the cash flow and risk profile of your business.
When you start a business, you may simply rely on your own personal checking and savings accounts to get started. However, it is important early on to separate your personal and business finances. This will allow you to generate “clean” reports on the income and expenses of your business and keep track of business accounting for tax-reporting purposes. To get started, open business checking and business savings accounts and make sure all business-related activity is run through them.
APPLY FOR BUSINESS CREDIT
UNDERSTAND TAX REQUIREMENTS
One of the perks of being a business owner is that you can write off many of your business expenses as deductions on your taxes. These can be difficult to track, however. Paying for all of your business expenses with a business credit card can make it significantly easier to track your business expenses. It can also help your business build up its own business credit score. Most major credit card companies offer cards specifically designed for businesses, and some offer special perks like cash-back rewards for common business expenses (for example, spending on office supplies and businessrelated meals).
For most individuals, filing your tax return is a once-a-year headache. For small business owners, however, taxes can be a year-round undertaking. When you start a business, you will want to ensure that your business is built upon a solid financial foundation, including how your business prepares and files its taxes. Make sure you keep records of all of your expenses, track your payments and properly estimate your tax payments. You will want to maintain detailed records and make your payments on time. Putting organizational systems in place for your year-round taxfiling obligations can make the process less frustrating over the long run. Consider hiring an accountant to help you stay on top of your tax payments and keep you on track with bookkeeping.
IMPLEMENT BUSINESS PROCESSES
ASSEMBLE A HIGH-QUALITY BOARD
When you’re working at your business, it can often be tough to work on your business. That›s why it is critical to have processes in place to help simplify and standardize as much of your business operations as possible to keep the wheels spinning and allow you to focus your time and energy on what matters—for example, keeping your employees motivated and executing your long-term strategic plan.
A high-quality board of directors with a range of talents and experience can be a powerful resource for your company. Taking steps to ensure your board is well-designed, well-informed and properly engaged will reap significant benefits for your company’s shareholders and management team. Make sure your board includes at least a few independent members with experience relevant to your industry, and a few that come from completely different industries who might offer an alternative approach to issues rather than the “industry norm.” Family-owned business may want to have at a least one family member on the board who can represent the family’s legacy and long-term vision for the company. And don’t overlook gender diversity. Our analysis has found that companies where women made up at least 30% of the board of directors saw higher returns on invested capital and other measures of business success.
Create systems for paying expenses and payroll and for processing payments. Identify the tools and products that will help you manage your bookkeeping efficiently. Develop metrics and reports that you can easily and periodically generate to help you understand how your business is performing in real time. Create an organizational structure that clearly lays out the decision-making process at the shareholder, board and management levels for major Getting the most out of your board of directors requires that you keep them business decisions. engaged and informed. In addition to regularly scheduled quarterly board meetings, it may be helpful for the board to schedule an all-day offsite every year or two, where the agenda is entirely devoted to reviewing the company’s long-term strategic plan with members of senior management. Remember to build a solid foundation through careful planning. From taxes to tools and payments to products, following these six steps will help you better prepare for the many challenges and opportunities you may encounter on the road to building a successful business. ©2018 The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation. All rights reserved. •
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
DR. HOWARD SOBEL KEEPING SKIN SENSATIONAL By Ruth J. Katz
ther than natural aging, nothing ages you as much as the sun,” cautions Dr. Howard Sobel, a boardcertified cosmetic dermatologic surgeon with over 35 years’ experience tending to the skin— solving dermatological dilemmas and offering solutions for beauty issues for an elite clientele. Whatever time of year, be it summer, when you spend time on sun-drenched beaches, or winter, when you’re on the ski slopes, being outdoors is potentially hazardous. “UVA and UVB rays damage the skin,” says Sobel. “UVB irritates the skin and causes it to burn, while UVA penetrates more deeply and causes long-term damage, such as wrinkles, sun spots, and hyper-pigmentation.” It is one of the reasons why he—along with every doctor you talk to—proselytizes on the use of sunblock, “reapplied frequently,” he underscores. Sobel, a native New Yorker, jokes that while he was a star basketball player during his formative academic years on the Lower East Side, he realized a career with the Knicks was not in the cards and so a more prudent course lay in medical school. A graduate of Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Sobel was the original editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology. He opened his first practice in 1980 and then moved Sobel Skin to Park Avenue in 2000.
Dr. Sobel
A PERSONALIZED APPROACH
Over the years, he’s expanded the office so that today, in the more than 4,000-square-foot facility, there are seven treatment rooms and an AAAHCaccredited operating room. The recently renovated space is beautiful, and has the ambience of a friend’s cozy living room. He and his team offer not merely medical services, but also cosmetic and rejuvenation treatments. He built Sobel Skin on the guiding principle that everyone is a person, first; a patient, second; and a number, never. That personalized approach has kept his clientele loyal and ardent. In 1991, he developed the product line DDF, one of the first dermatologic, therapeutic skincare lines, which he remains very proud of; Procter and Gamble subsequently purchased it, and today it is under the aegis of Designer Parfums. An outspoken advocate for preventive measures for your skin, he is currently developing another premium, but affordable, skincare line, with products for the face, eyes, and body, featuring an advanced retinol serum and brightening vitamin C serum. New York Lifestyles recently sat down with Dr. Sobel to discuss preventive and reparative measures for skincare.
You need to keep reapplying any sunscreen, every two to three hours. 74 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
What should we do as the first line of defense against the sun? Of course, the first thing is sunblock or sunscreen, with an SPF of 30. If you are walking back and forth to the car or grocery store, you could use a sunblock with a lower SPF of 15 under your make-up. However, you need to keep reapplying any sunscreen, every two to three hours. After a prolonged time in the sun, should a person get a skin check-up? You should certainly look for any subtle changes in your skin. Of course, it’s more prudent to go to the doctor for a body scan so that a trained physician can look for suspicious lesions; they don’t happen overnight, and in general, they accumulate over 15 to 20 years, and then suddenly you find something. Most of the worse sun damage has occurred before age 18. A schooled eye will look for any pigmented lesions, rough spots, abrasions or sores that do not heal, scaly red areas, and other irregularities. Tell us more about what the sun and damaging UVA and UVB rays will do to skin? UVA and UVB rays change skin cells and can cause precancerous conditions and cancer: basal cells, squamous cells, and melanoma. The rays release free radicals that can damage healthy skin cells; pollutants, such as the sun and smoking, both cause free radicals that damage healthy cells and cause them to cease functioning properly. Free radicals also disturb the skin’s collagen, and the elastin becomes less elastic, less resilient, and it makes us look older before our time. Is it possible to coax our skin back to looking less weathered? You want to use creams that are hydrophilic, that help retain water; products including glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acids. They help keep moisture in and at the same time, slough off dead skin cells, leaving the skin softer.
UVA and UVB rays change skin cells and can cause pre-cancerous conditions and cancer. Is there anything you’d recommend that is more aggressive? Yes, a medium-to-deep chemical peel, perhaps with 70 percent glycolic acid or 35 percent trichloroacetic acid. We also do laser treatments. I recommend the Clear + Brilliant laser. With a lot of sun damage, most people would need three or four treatments, two to three weeks apart. Slightly more aggressive is the Fraxel laser, which renews the skin’s surface, improves skin texture and tone, gives a refreshed look, and can reverse visible signs of aging. It is the gold standard and can eliminate pigmentation; it also helps get rid of pre-cancers growths. We have noticed an uptick in the number of men seeking rejuvenation. Have you seen this in your practice? I’d say about 20 percent of my patients are men. They come to our practice for many of the same reasons women do— standard dermatology-related issues, skin cancers, acne, hair loss, and also for a variety of facials and injectables. Additionally, they come for laser treatments, for tattoo removal, for fat reduction, and liposuction on love handles. We use local tumescent anesthesia only, so I can make sure the results are perfectly symmetrical—something we could not do if the patient were under full anesthesia. The follow-up to any of my liposuction procedures is the new Emsculpt laser, and with four treatments over a two-week period, a man can regain a washboard stomach. For more information on Dr. Howard Sobel and Sobel Skin, visit sobelskin.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 75
HEALTH & WELLNESS
THE LAND OF HAPPINESS
6 STEPS TO ACHIEVING A MEANINGFUL LIFE By Dr. Peter M. Kalellis
appiness is like God-given manna—food for the day given to Israelites while in the desert. It is to be gathered in grains, and enjoyed every day. It will not keep; it cannot be accumulated. — Tryon Edwards Preoccupation with happiness has come at the cost of sadness, an important feeling that we have tried to banish from our emotional world. As we examine both the happiness and anti-happiness forces we will actually agree on something significant—that we Americans tend to grab superficial quick fixes such as extravagant purchases, exotic vacations, expensive restaurants, best wines to subdue any negative feelings that we might experience. Such measures seem to hinge on a belief that constant happiness is somehow our birthright. In reality, a body of research shows that instant indulgences do calm us down—for a few moments or hours. But they leave us physically unhealthy, and emotionally more miserable in the long run—lacking in the real skills to get us out of our unhappy state.
DESIRES & WISHES
Happiness is not about smiling all of the time and saying nice things. Not everyone can put on a happy face for a long time. It is not only about eliminating bad moods, negative thoughts and judgmental attitudes. In view of the diverse human condition, happiness encompasses living a meaningful life, grateful of what is available to us, utilizing our gifts and our time, living with meaning and purpose. It is maximized when we also feel part of a family or a community, confronting annoyances and crises with grace. Happiness involves a willingness to learn and stretch and grow, which sometimes involves discomfort. It requires acting on life, not merely taking it in and being willing contributors or passive receivers. Humans yearn for happiness in a thousand shapes; and the faster they follow it the swifter it flies away from them. Almost everything promises happiness to us at a distance. But when we come nearer, either we fall short of it, or it falls short of our expectations; and it is hard to say which of these is the greatest disappointment. 76 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
IS SOMETHING MISSING?
In view of the above desires or wishes and the thousand more that could be added to the list, if we assume that happiness-seekers get what they want, the question is, will they be happy? Perhaps for a while they will be happy, but their happiness will not be lasting. Soon after they reach a milestone, they would start to feel that something is missing, and they will begin coveting another worldly possession or eyeing a social advancement or perceiving others as being happy. But such an approach keeps us tethered to the “pleasure treadmill,” where happiness is always just out of reach. True happiness is to be free from anxieties and worries; to understand and do our duties to God and people, to be responsible citizens, to respect the rights of others, and to enjoy the present without any serious dependence on the future. Here, six steps that seem to evoke happiness.
ONE
TWO
THREE
Persistence in pursuing a desired plan. It matters not what plan a person pursues, as long as it is not destructive. The more passions we have—whether for people, things, hobbies, work or something else—the greater the potential to attain happiness. However, having a passion for something may not be enough. The goal that we choose to pursue must have intrinsic value and meaning in current life. Personally, I’m passionately pursuing writing psycho-spiritual self-help books. My measure of happiness increases each time I have completed a book. As a psychotherapist, I have a passion to help people take charge of their lives and move on to face reality with a positive attitude.
Pursuing depth. As we mature, we need to take a serious look at our life and become emotionally, intellectually, morally, psychologically, and spiritually more wise. To attain a state of depth in order to enrich our life it takes effort and hard work. It is a struggle because of our human nature which seeks immediate pleasure, and our culture is designed to convince us that pleasure is all we need. It is evident that people who are able to transcend their nature and seek depth derive great happiness. Who is likely to be psychologically and spiritually deeper—the person who devotes time and effort to learning about herself/himself or the one who rarely looks within? Pursuing depth is one of the noblest goals of human life and it generates lasting joy.
Pursuing wisdom. Wisdom may also be defined as understanding, as opposed to merely knowing. Knowledge is wonderful and makes us feel good knowing different aspects of life, but is not as valuable as wisdom which brings happiness and peace of mind. Computers contain tons of knowledge, but they have no wisdom. This can be true of many humans. A person can be a giant of knowledge but may lack wisdom. As we think of the multitudes of well-educated people today, we wonder if our humanity’s history has been the wisest. Could their knowledge have stopped the wars, bring an end to hunger and restore human condition? Yet all of us are familiar with people with limited education who possessed wisdom. It seems that some people are born with wisdom and others attain it with great emotional and intellectual struggle. Beyond doubt, a lifelong pursuit of wisdom yields more contentment.
FOUR
Pursuing clarity. It h e lp s to u n d e rs t an d ourselves and life. In modern psychological clarity of mind is a blessing. A large number of people walk through life with little understanding of why life unfolds the way it does or why they themselves behave the way they do. Yet, to understand why our life evolves the way it does is one of the greatest sources of happiness. As with the process of maturing and of attaining depth, the more we understand, the more we yearn. We want to know why at times we loose our temper, why we yell at a loved one, why we keep falling in love with the wrong type of person. Clarity may not be able to change everything that can happen in life, and it will not change anything that has already happened, but it can help to transform us from passive bystanders to people of action.
FIVE
Pursuing goodness. Being kind and doing good things for ourselves and others increases our happiness. Good people bring good people into their lives, and spending time with such people increases the joy in their lives. The peace of mind and sense of self-worth that we derive from the pursuit of goodness are unattainable elsewhere.
Almost everything promises happiness to us at a distance. But when we come nearer, either we fall short of it, or it falls short of our expectations.
SIX
Pursuing the transcendent. Throughout history most people have been acutely aware of the ephemeral nature of human life. We arrive against our will, stay on this planet a short time, and live against our will. Consequently, more than ever we need meaning that can come only from the belief that something permanent transcends us. Many will argue that religion contributes nothing in life and at times it tends to be harmful. But few can argue against the proposition that religion is capable of bringing more inner peace, joy and love. There is something in the human heart that yearns for meaning, order, community, and answers that religion uniquely provides.
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 77
HEALTH & WELLNESS
FIGHTING FAT & FADS
THE TRUTH & TOOLS FOR EATING HEALTHIER By Bailey Beckett
he calls frozen yogurt the “devil’s work.” She hates the word “moderation.” And she has no patience for trolls who body shame people online. It’s quite stern for a bubbly, gregarious nutritionist, but Brooke Alpert is dead serious about the mistakes, fads, and misnomers she sees in everyday eating. A graduate from NYU, where she received her master’s degree, Alpert later studied at the prestigious Mt. Sinai Hospital and is a prominent member of organizations and boards as varied as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, New York Dietetic Association and the Sports, Cardiovascular and Wellness Nutrition Group. She’s also the author of three bestsellers: Healthy Eating During Pregnancy, The Sugar Detox: Lose Weight, Feel Great and Look Years Younger, and her recent tome The Diet Detox: Why Your Diet is Making You Fat and What to Do About It. In other words: she knows her stuff, so listen carefully. Your body will thank you.
THE QUICK FIX “Everyone wants that quick fix,” says the mother of two, a triathlete and former equestrian who lives with her husband and children in New York. “Except you’re setting yourself up for failure.” Alpert lists “eating plans” like the Master Cleanse (the liquid-only program favored by celebrities like Beyoncé); the Cabbage Soup routine (the name says everything); and the “Keto” diet, which throws your body in ketosis (no carbs!) as good examples of the “lose weight instantly” club. “There are a lot of social media experts giving testimonials online like ‘I lost seven pounds in a week,’ but they do not see the full picture,” she says. “The person very likely gained it back.” Instead, Alpert defines a successful diet as “something you can stick to for the rest of your life. It’s what you eat every day. A diet needs longevity and allow occasions to indulge.” Following an eating plan that is reasonable and responsible can lead to 20- to 30-pound weight loss over time, as well as habits that will follow you through your life. At a minimum, Alpert says every plate should include a protein and fiber, as well as a fruit or vegetable. Also, avoid fat-free products (“a red flag for high in sugar,” the nutritionist warns) and be wary of salad dressings. “Take an honest look at your plate,” she advises. “What’s totally necessary?” Brooke Alpert
ON THE MENU Take note, New Yorkers: Surviving the urban jungle while eating-on-the-go and late-night dinners (reservation for 9 pm, please?) does not disqualify you from the rules. “I call clients on this it all the time,” laughs Alpert. A common New York problem, Alpert acknowledges, is the eating-late phenomenon, which affects your body cycle: if you’re spending time digesting, you’re not allowing time for your body to go into a deeper, more productive level of sleep. She advises leaving a 12-14-hour window between dinner and breakfast. Alpert is founder of B Nutritious Counseling Services, a platform that helps clients and visitors with nutritional goals that fit their lifestyles. As she explains, “There’s no reason you can’t eat healthy when dining out. If you make the right decisions you are setting yourself up for success with every meal.” Her latest project is a program called DailyHabit, a powdered cannabidiol (CBD) supplement that benefits the body and the mind (it lacks the hallucinogenic attributes found in marijuana). Alpert, a registered cannabis practitioner, reasons that someone who feels less anxious and less stressed is prone to be happier and avoid emotional eating (OMG, it’s been a day. It’s a Bloomin’ Onion for you). It’s an entirely reasonable hypothesis that will get its try out this January. In the meantime, “plan ahead this holiday season,” Alpert advises. Don’t stock your home with sugary Halloween treats you’re likely to eat yourself. But if you like that pecan pie, then have a slice. Just avoid the pumpkin... you know what happens after midnight. For more information on Brooke Alpert and B Nutritious Counseling Service, visit b-nutritious.com. •
HEALTH & WELLNESS
SPA SCENE HAVEN SPA By Gretchen Kelly
rom its candy-store like reception area with its shelves stocked to the gills with tempting products, to its star and outer space-themed interior rooms, there’s something whimsical and childlike about the Haven Spa, a SoHo staple for hedonists since 1998. I checked in on a humid afternoon for a signature 60-minute Deep Tissue Massage and a 60-minute Remedy Facial. Walking by a mani/ pedicure station which looked more like an old-fashioned shoe shine station just after reception, I was ushered down a black painted hallway with small floor-level lighting that makes you feel like you’re in a 60s-era love-in or an dark corridor of the Starship Enterprise. Trance music in the treatment rooms continues the Space Odyssey-like theme.
RELAX & RESTORE Once inside the more prosaic treatment room, I was greeted by a very nononsense therapist who told me in advance that the massage was not about being relaxed but was about therapeutic knot-releasing action. My 60-minute treatment was indeed at odds with the somewhat somnambulistic music. I was pulled and kneaded by my therapist’s strong hands until every conceivable knot in my body was ironed out of me. Though there were some moments of pinch-hitting pain, on the whole the massage felt vibrant and almost athletically well done. It was time to move down the corridor of space to the facial room where I was scheduled for a Remedy procedure: a maintain-and-glow treatment with a few extractions, hot steam, exfoliation, a nice massage and that chill out soundtrack.
A FACE ODYSSEY For 60 minutes my therapist peered at my pores with a brisk professionalism, declaring my skin very “taut and well-taken care of ” before she slathered on a variety of treatment crèmes, all with clean, herbal scents rather than the alcohol-like smells that sometimes come with deep-cleansing facials. The extractions were briskly and minimally painfully done and a final glow-enhancing serum slid on my now richly hydrating skin like silk. On dressing and finding my way back through the dark corridor to reception (where is Darth Vadar when you need him?), I saw that my skin had a flushed glow and I felt limp noodle relaxed with an invigorating feel of better circulation running through my now fully restored lymphatic system. Although my treatments had the somewhat pedestrian titles of Remedy and Deep Tissue, Haven also does more colorful sounding treatments like the Geek Massage, a focus on head and shoulders spent hunching over computers. The Haven Spa also has signature “ME” or Mini-Escape Treatments with massages, facials and mani-pedis that only take 30-minutes each so that fast living city dwellers can zoom in and out of Haven’s space-inspired interior faster than warp-speed. For more information on Haven Spa, visit havenspanyc.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 79
FOOD & DRINK
PHILIP MARIE RESTAURANT THE SECRET TO SUCCESS IS PLEASING PEOPLE By Ellis Nassour
ohn and Suzanne Greco found the best path to success is pleasing customers. Their popular Greenwich Village restaurant Philip Marie is celebrating 20 years at Hudson and West 11th Street, a location where many others failed. Master chef John’s dream to have his restaurant came mid-life, but his love of cooking began in grammar school in his family’s backyard in New Jersey where he became grilling chef. “We were typically Italian,” says Greco, “eating at home every night. I’d watched my mother and grandmother create traditional Italian dishes. I could do that, but what I relished was grilling.” Through high school, he was the family chef. “However, it never once dawned on me that it could be a career. It was fun.” Upon graduation, he left grilling behind for jobs that included being a hotel bellman and an expert twirler in a pizzeria where he loved assembling the pies in front of this glass window, impressing all the girls who passed by.
AN INTENSE EDUCATION Greco heard the siren call of the grill again. At 17, he applied to the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). Told he needed hands-on kitchen experience, CIA graduate Ron Ross (former executive chef, Atlantic City Borgata), mentored him at the Meadowlands Hilton. At the CIA, “it was intense, nose to the grindstone, very old school, and I dug in.” If he was to become a chef, nothing could top working at Le Cirque. Executive chef Alain Sailhac interviewed him. “He was very French. I was very Jersey. My first day, he said, ‘Who are you?’ I took the bus in six days a week, worked 11 am until late into the night, making barely enough to cover my bus fare. But it was an excellent education.” When Greco asked for a raise, Sailhac questioned how much more could he pay for wiping the counter? The young Greco quickly reminded him of all that he did there. He didn’t get a raise. However, at Christmas, with no cash to purchase gifts for his family, he discovered Sailhac had a heart. He said, ‘I’ll show you how to make gifts no one will forget.’ He melted ultra-expensive blocks of Belgian chocolate in cream. We whipped the ganache, refrigerated it, then scooped, rolled, and coated the truffles. As he handed them off, he said, ‘I give you a little raise.’” 80 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
John and Suzanne
NOW COMES EXPERIENCE The day after CIA graduation, Greco boarded a plane for France. “I wanted to be a chef because I loved cooking, traveling, and pleasing people, but something was missing. I wanted to understand why people eat what they eat.” He maneuvered his way into five-star and Michelin-rated restaurants where he was the only American. Dropping the fact he worked at Le Cirque opened a lot of doors. He learned French and German. Several months later, he made his way to Italy and into Michelinstarred San Domenico in Imola, near Bologna. Returning to the U.S., he helped open San Domenico on Central Park South under Tony May. “I learned from a gentleman who was 100 percent dedicated to the hospitality business.” In 1992, Greco interviewed at Piccolo Mondo, a restaurant under construction on East 50th Street. The mention of Le Cirque and San Domenico didn’t hurt. “But I was rebellious, gutsy, and big-headed,” admits Greco. “I told owner John Lonzar he should open with someone else as executive chef and then give me a call.” Six months later, he was back and met with the manager, Suzanne, the boss’ daughter. He was hired. “It wasn’t love at first sight,” laughs Suzanne. “For a couple of years, we simply worked together. Then I left for a job in broadcasting. I’d see John when I visited the restaurant.” “Suzanne was shocked when I asked her out,” says John. “I just wondered what took you so long,” she admonishes. John became a private chef for a wealthy client in Cody, Wyoming, with a 75,000-acre ranch, who invited the Who’s Who of industry out for the chef ’s dinners on the range. Suzanne flew out over holidays. “Those nights alongside the chuck wagon and campfire were quite romantic.”
DETERMINED TO MAKE IT They wed in 1997. Upon returning from their honeymoon, it was decided, “Let’s do it.” It was time to open their own restaurant. “John searched the city,” recalls Suzanne. “He told me he found a spot we could afford. When I checked it out, I asked, ‘Where am I?’ I was an Upper East Side gal. Greenwich Village was a foreign land. It wasn’t the Village of today.” Everyone warned it was a mistake because every business there failed. “I didn’t listen,” states Greco. “I was still a rebel, but determined we could make it.” The restaurant needed a name. They pondered John Suzanne and Suzanne John. “Neither rolled off the tongue,” laughs Suzanne. “I asked, ‘What about our middle names?’ And Philip Marie was born. “We put our hearts, souls, and everything we could muster into Philip Marie— rebuilding it ourselves. We were there from the crack of dawn until the wee hours.” Early morning John was in the meatpacking district selecting slabs of meat, then to the old Fulton Fish Market for the catch of the day. Suzanne would arrive with herbs and vegetables from their Jersey garden—a tradition they continue. “Running a restaurant is all about making people happy,” explains Suzanne. “John was innovative in the kitchen. Each customer we met, we approached as a friend. We had people coming in with their youngsters, and now the youngsters are coming in with their youngsters.” He notes, “From day one, it was everything made to order. Nothing frozen, nothing nuked. We satisfy vegetarian, vegan, and special diets.” A loyal following developed, especially for Greco’s Tuesday Clambakes and Wednesday Prime Ribs, a tradition he’s carried forward. Greco’s inventive New American cuisine has been praised by critics, winning awards of excellence. “We love feeding and pleasing people,” Greco says. “If we can put a smile on their faces when they pay the check, we feel we’ve accomplished a great thing.” For more information on Philip Marie, visit philipmarie.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 81
FOOD & DRINK
GYRO WORLD
A NEW SPIN ON GREEK CUISINE By Peter Kalellis
tep into any one of three Gyro World restaurants in Queens and it’s as if you boarded a plane at JFK and arrived in Greece. The warm welcome, authentic menu, and ambiance will transport you to the islands. It’s the brainchild of Dimitris Petridis who along with his two sons, Kosta and Thanasi, makes this a favorite eatery for many New Yorkers. “It’s not just gyros,” Kosta explains, “it’s a whole atmosphere of music, bonding with friends and family, enjoying your surroundings, which is what we try to bring to the neighborhood, We abide by our slogan, A Modern Greek Eatery.”
A YOUNG MAN AND A DREAM Born in a small village in Northern Greece, a 20-year-old Dimitris was invited to join his uncle to come to America. It was 1987, and this young man was eager to work at any job that paid well. His intention was to make enough money and return to Greece and establish himself there. However, as he gained knowledge and became familiar with a new environment, he began to think seriously about having his own business here. 82 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
Dimitri and Sons
One day, he and his uncle took the subway into Manhattan and was thrilled with the sights and sounds. “The flow of straight streets and avenues, majestic buildings reaching for the sky—what a fantastic sight! In a letter to one of his best friends in Greece, he wrote. “I am dumbfounded by the size of the buildings and the hundreds of people, talking and laughing.” It was a far cry from the narrow streets and whitewashed houses he left behind. Dimitris was so impressed when he noticed food carts at some busy street corners where people stood in line to buy snacks and lunch. Seeing this gave him the idea to design his own food cart. Before long, the young entrepreneur was on busy corners of the streets of New York offering everything from Greek to American favorites in his food cart. He did this for ten years. Gyro World
HELPING THOSE IN NEED He saved enough money by 2005 to open his first restaurant in Flushing. As his family grew, so did the business, and in 2011 the incredible success of his original location motivated him to double its size. By 2018 Dimitris had two additional locations (Ridgewood and Astoria) also in Queens. Something most dining guests don’t know is that Dimitris is always available to offer advice and help people in need. He never talks about his philanthropic efforts. Wherever help is needed, he is there. The most recent example was at the opening of his Gyro World in Astoria earlier this year where all proceeds were donated to the Ronald McDonald House. Invited guests were informed rather than bring gifts or flowers to donate money for the fundraising.
ON THE MENU Dining here is a quick lesson in Greek. All dishes use fresh ingredients, beautifully presented for an enjoyable experience. Start with some warm pita bread with house-made tzatziki sauce and spicy tirokafteri cheese dip. Next is an enormous salad called horiatiki, loaded with cucumbers and tomatoes, topped with stuffed grape leaves, and finished off with creamy feta cheese and Greek oregano. Other starters include crispy rings of fried calamari, spinach pie, and a thick cut, Greek-style bacon called pancetta, grilled to a sizzling finish. Gyro World offers beer and wine—domestic as well as Greek brands. For the main course, try the GW Plate which is a massive platter of their famous grilled meats: Greek Gyro (pork), chicken bifteki, pork souvlaki, chicken souvlaki, and country sausage called loukaniko. Don’t worry: There’s plenty of warm pita bread to soak up the savory juices. No matter what your selection, though, one thing is for sure: Everything on the menu is delicious. So dive in! Yasou! For more information on Gyro World, visit gyroworldnyc.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 83
TM
GYRO WORLD
Featuring Authentic Greek Cuisine Using Fresh Ingredients 194-21 Northern Blvd, Flushing, NY 11358 (718) 428-3800
36-02 30th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103 (718) 278-4976
www.gyroworldnyc.com
66-57 Fresh Pond Road, Ridgewood, NY 11385 (718) 366-4976
@gyroworld
Look for restaurant directories featuring a variety of different cuisines ranging from Steak & Seafood, Italian, French, Chinese... in our upcoming issues. For advertising opportunities, contact
Bill Mason 646-259-2651
|
publishingwiz@aol.com
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FARSAD LABBAUF FROM MY EAST TO YOUR WEST By Isa Freeling
ranian born artist Farsad Labbauf reflects on the solar cycle. From where the sun rises in the East to where it sets in the West. He explains, “Our lives are continuously bound by the light and the shadow it casts. It is in this cycle that actions are performed and regardless of where we live those actions have consequences that affect the lives of others both locally and globally.
Farsad Labbauf
The paintings are at once arresting and beautiful. Labbauf uses his signature lines and markings, but this time, with marvelous vivid rich jewel tones. I am in love with his portrayal of the masked Superhero with the accordion collar known as Aristocratic Ruff signifying excessive glamorization on an already glamorous character in the foreground, while in the background iconic female figure Shirin dances in the shadows. “I have named the female figure in Behzad’s painting Shirin because of the ancient Persian queen’s story. According to legend she had a very harsh and turbulent life but was a true model of a faithful lover and wife. She helped protect the Christian minority through her influence and was a true Superhero!” The Light of Your Shadow
ELEGANT AND THOUGHT-PROVOKING Red leaves float through the canvas displaying an openness to the elements. Labbauf goes on to say, “The leaves and the female image are all extracted and enlarged from master miniature painter Behzad’s imageries. I have taken some of the leaves enlarged and painted them in red. They signify nature and change of season but they are on fire; a metaphor for disruption and destruction of what is natural in the East and been set ablaze by the villain who is posing as a media and entertainment Super-Hero.” The Light of Your Shadow alludes to allegories and figures who are “a direct reference to the theme of most of the paintings portraying the influence of the West and Western power in the East, Labbauf declares. From the removal of Dr. Mossadegh from power by the CIA in 1953 to cultural infiltration through seductive forms of media and entertainment around the globe.” Labbauf displays these shapes through lines while ensconced in the wings of the Superhero emblem, an American eagle and an oil drum float in the chaos of history. This show proves to hit all the right notes true to its theme. It is beautifully executed and wonderfully colorful and alive. From My East To Your West or in other words, everything effects, everything, is an elegant and thought-provoking series. By using faces and symbols from Iran’s dramatic past and symbols of American iconography we see the causes and effects of the Wests influence in the East, thus the wake of its past still pervades our memories, influencing our present. For more information on From My East To Your West (through October 28th) at the Blank Space Gallery), visit blankspaceart.com; for Farsad Labbauf, visit labbauf.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 85
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON STAGE By Lori Zelenko
BERNHARDT/HAMLET The American Airlines Theatre Through November 11th Mark Twain wrote, “There are five kinds of actresses: bad actresses, fair actresses, good actresses, great actresses. And then there is Sarah Bernhardt.” In 1899, the international stage celebrity considered the greatest actress of her time, set out to tackle her most ambitious role yet: Hamlet. Taking on the part was potentially perilous even for a risktaking actress as dressing in men’s clothing could have been a ruinous move back in the day. But Bernhardt, being an adventurer, more than overcame crossdressing challenges. Janet McTeer considered “arguably to be the greatest stage actress of our time,” according to Bernhardt/Hamlet playwright Theresa Rebeck not to mention a host of critics brings this legendary leading lady to life in the Roundabout production of Bernhardt/ Hamlet. As much high comedy as it is a human drama, the story of Bernhardt’s risky role plays out with laughs and pathos against the lavish Shakespearean production that could make or break Bernhardt’s career. For Rebeck the opportunity to explore the relationship between Bernhardt and one of Shakespeare’s most famous characters was a wonderful temptation: “In the part of Bernhardt playing Hamlet, Janet McTee attacks the mysterious questions of power, gender, and identity which provoke us now more than ever.” Janet McTeer speaks of Bernhardt as “a great actress who took the bull by the horns, she did lots of parts for men when she couldn’t find enough parts for women. She was just out there. I love the fact that she was clearly herself. Essentially the play is an homage to a woman who stood up and did it at a time when women didn’t stand up and do it. She did. That’s pretty incredible.” Directed by Tony nominee Moritz von Stuelpnagel, Roundabout Theatre’s production also stars Dylan Baker as Constant Coquelin and Jason Butler Harner as Edmond Rostand. The cast also includes Brittany Bradford, Aaron Costa Ganis, and Triney Sandoval. 86 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
APOLOGIA
Laura Pels Theatre at The Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center for Theatre Through December 16th Stockard Channing earned rave reviews in London for her powerhouse performance in the West End hit Apologia. The magnificent Channing plays what some might call a monstrous matriarch, a woman who seeks conflict and never hesitates to voice her brutal opinion yet she’s still tinged with vulnerability and dawning regret in Alexi Kaye Campbell’s biting play. Kristin Miller (Channing) is one tough customer, critical, confrontational; you could even call her vicious yet not without a sense of humor. In the 1960s, she was a radical activist and political protester. Now she’s evolved to be a celebrated art historian. As she prepares to publish her memoir, she has to face the choices she made along the way, prioritizing career over family, pain, and anger simmering in mother and sons; a family about to split apart by the consequences of the past relived in the present. Though the play may be considered a lively look at yesterday’s rebels living in today’s reality, it’s also a look at the motivations for deciding to pursue a career that rewards and challenges.
Stockard Channing
This backstory is explored, judged, seen with compassion, defended as well as criticized. No heroes, no victims just a struggle to resolve damage done. Three-time Obie Award winner Daniel Aukin directs this passionate human and sometimes hilarious drama. You could say he adeptly creates sympathy for the devil. Aukin’s recent work includes Dan Lefranc’s Rancho Viejo and the Broadway revival of Sam Shepard’s Fool for Love. A longtime friend of Roundabout Theatre Company, Channing returns to the theater following her Tonynominated performances in Pal Joey (2008), The Lion in Winter (1999) and Joe Egg (1985, Tony Award Best Actress). Most recently, she has delighted Broadway audiences with her performances in It’s Only a Play and Other Desert Cities. She is joined in this production by Emmynominated stage alum Hugh Dancy, John Tillinger, Megalyn Echikunwoke, and Talene Monahon. Roundabout Theatre Company presents a variety of plays, musicals, and new works on its five stages, each of which is specifically designed to enhance the needs of Roundabout’s mission. Through the New Play Initiative, Roundabout proves its devotion to the development and production of new works by significant writers and artists. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 87
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE BIG SCREEN By Jenny Peters
BRILLIANT BIOGRAPHIES CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME? Rated R Melissa McCarthy sheds her comedic persona in this biopic about a biographer, as she takes on the role of Lee Israel. A best-selling non-fiction author throughout the 70s and 80s who wrote bios of Katharine Hepburn, Estee Lauder and other celebrities, her later life took a darker turn. McCarthy is already turning heads at film festivals with her performance in this serio-comedy that’s populated with cats and craziness. FIRST MAN Rated PG-13 Ryan Gosling stars in this intense look at the life of American astronaut Neil Armstrong, the first man to step on the moon’s surface. Collaborating once again with Oscarwinning director Damien Chazelle (the pair made La La Land together), Gosling makes Armstrong into a fully dimensional character, not simply an iconic hero. Claire Foy co-stars as his wife and an array of terrific actors including Corey Stoll, Lukas Haas, and Pablo Schreiber join in as other U.S. astronauts, all intent on making it to the moon.
CLASSIC COMEDIES JOHNNY ENGLISH STRIKES AGAIN Rated PG Rowan Atkinson returns for a third go at bringing that stumbling, bumbling British secret agent Johnny English back to the big screen. Johnny English Strikes Again takes him out of retirement and back into the fray of international espionage, this time with the help of Emma Thompson and Olga Kurylenko along for the laughs. He’s hunting a genius hacker, who’s not quite ready for the whacked-out brand of spying that Johnny English does so well! THE OATH Not yet rated Ike Barinholtz of The Mindy Project fame leaps to the big screen as a triple threat with The Oath, a dysfunctional family comedy that he wrote, directed and stars in. He also produced the flick, along with his co-star Tiffany Haddish, which means this pair of funny people pretty much had full control of what you see on the screen. That’s a Thanksgiving saga of liberals versus conservatives, with all hell breaking loose, at the family dinner table and way beyond. John Cho, Billy Magnussen, and Nora Dunn join in the mayhem, too. 88 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
DEEP DRAMAS BAD TIMES AT THE EL ROYALE Not yet rated Take seven strangers, throw them together in a strange hotel that sits on the line between Nevada and California in Lake Tahoe, mix in a bunch of interesting actors in the roles and you get Bad Times at the El Royale. Chris Hemsworth, Dakota Johnson, Jon Hamm, and Jeff Bridges lead the pack in this dark thriller. Just remember, no one is what they seem to be—and then go along for the weird and wild ride. A STAR IS BORN Rated R It’s a tale Hollywood loves to tell; in fact, this version of A Star Is Born is the fourth time the story of the young starlet and her aging mentor has come to the big screen. This time, it’s Lady Gaga in the starring role, as an up-and-coming singer, with Bradley Cooper (the film marks his directorial debut) as the man who discovers her talents. Already taking film festivals like Venice and Toronto by storm, this one seems to be making a beeline straight toward the Oscars, exactly like all three versions that went before (made in 1937, 1954 and 1976) have also done.
HORRIBLE HORRORS SUSPIRIA Rated R Dakota Johnson fans have two chances to see her on the big screen in October, as she stars in Bad Times at the El Royale and also takes the leading role in this new version of Suspiria, a remake of the 1977 Dario Argento horrorfest set in a prestigious ballet school. Tilda Swinton, Chloe Grace Moritz and a host of beautiful young women join her in the madness and mayhem that ensues—but don’t get too attached to any of these lovelies, as not many will be left standing by the time the credits roll. VENOM Not yet rated Marvel Comics brings the fear with Venom, as the alien “Symbiote” best known for taking over Spider-Man’s body arrives on the big screen with a movie of his own. Academy Award nominee Tom Hardy (The Revenant) stars as a journalist who inadvertently becomes the human host for this seriously scary alien, then must figure out how to either live with Venom or die trying to oust him. There’s everything you’ve come to expect from a Marvel movie here, crazy special effects, lots of brutal fighting and a beautiful female love interest (four-time Oscar nominee Michelle Williams). What’s unexpected is that Venom is known as one of Marvel’s most dangerous villains, so how can he be the hero of his own movie? You’ll have to buy a ticket to find out. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 89
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE SMALL SCREEN By Jenny Peters
BRAND-NEW DRAMAS ALL AMERICAN The CW Daniel Ezra, Taye Diggs and Cody Christian star in this high-school sports drama about a player named Spence James who is based on the real-life NFL player (Carolina Panthers, Miami Dolphins) Spencer Paysinger. Raised in Compton, California, his top grades and prowess as a player leads him to Beverly Hills High School, where the coach (Diggs) recruits him and offers him a place to live. He’s a bit of a fish out of water among the privileged kids and begins to learn the hard way how to make his way in a whole new culture. CHARMED The CW It’s been 20 years since the three witch sisters hit the small screen in Charmed; this reboot of that popular series stars Latinas Melonie Diaz, Sarah Jeffery, and Madeleine Mantock as the gals with supernatural powers. As they discover their newfound abilities, the trio also finds dark forces in the universe, demons, and devils that must be dealt with. Still depending on the “Power of Three,” this version has a whole new look for a new generation. THE ROMANOFFS Amazon Prime Matthew Weiner, the multiple Emmy Award-winning creator of Mad Men and executive producer of The Sopranos, returns to television with The Romanoffs, an anthology series about different characters across the globe who all believe that they are descended from the Russian royal family. He’s brought along a lot of his favorite actors from Mad Men, including Christina Hendricks and John Slattery, along with plenty of other familiar stars—Diane Lane, Aaron Eckhart, Isabelle Huppert, Paul Reiser, Corey Stoll, and Amanda Peet. With his brilliant writing style and fertile imagination, Weiner’s work is always worth a look (or a binge). THE ROOKIE ABC Nathan Fillion (Castle) returns to a police precinct in his new show, but this time he’s actually a cop— the oldest rookie cop you’ve ever seen, signing up for the force at age 40. Joining the LAPD in order to change up his life’s trajectory, he finds himself struggling to keep up with the youngsters and to gain the respect of the veterans on the force. A blend of drama, crime stories and a bit of comedy, The Rookie also stars Richard T. Jones and Alyssa Diaz. 90 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
CRACK-YOU-UP COMEDIES CAMPING HBO Jennifer Garner returns to the small screen in HBO’s new comedy Camping, which also marks Girls creator Lena Dunham’s return as well. Also starring David Tennant, Juliette Lewis, and Ione Skye, it’s all about a group of old friends who head off on a camping trip to celebrate a big birthday. Little do they know that this is one trip to the woods that’s going to lead to lunacies, felonies, and other wacky encounters. I FEEL BAD NBC Amy Poehler is the executive producer behind I Feel Bad, the tale of a woman who tries to be perfect in every aspect of her life, from mother and wife to boss and friend. Sarayu Blue stars in this comical domestic story created and written by Aseem Batra (Uncle Buck, Marion) that proves that trying to be the perfect everything is not only exhausting, it is impossible. THE CONNERS ABC Roseanne Barr is gone, but The Conners lives on, as this spinoff of Roseanne, the hugely popular family comedy that returned to TV in March 2018 after 20 years. The Conner family continues minus their matriarch, but with everyone else along for the continuing comedy. John Goodman returns as patriarch Dan Conner, along with most of the other original show’s cast, including Sara Gilbert, Laurie Metcalf, Michael Fishman, and Alicia Goranson. THE NEIGHBORHOOD CBS Join Cedric the Entertainer as he moves his TV family into a Los Angeles neighborhood that doesn’t exactly welcome his tribe onto their block. His Midwestern family is ready for anything the City of Angels can dish out and with a talented group of costars like Beth Behrs, Tichina Arnold, and Max Greenfield. The Neighborhood is pretty likely to be one you’ll want to visit. Add in creator-writer Jim Reynolds, who is moving on to this show after ten years on The Big Bang Theory, and there’s little doubt that there are going to be a lot of laughs in this hood. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 91
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
KUSAMA—INFINITY AN EXCELLENT FILM ABOUT AN INCREDIBLE ARTIST By Isa Freeling
o doubt that when you hear her name, images of vivid twinkling lights from her infinity Mirror Rooms escape from your memory bursting across the inside of your eyelids. But how much do you know about this wondrous uncommon human being born in a time when renowned artists were for the most part men, and women artists were merely witnesses to their success? Women often created in a vacuum and seldom presented in a gallery for nothing more substantial than a group show. Kumsama today
A VISION Born on March 22, 1929, in Matsumoto City, Japan, she was an artist from the very beginning of her life, despite her mother’s disdain and wish for her to concede to a conventional future of marriage and children. She had a troubling childhood, colored by her parent’s unhappy marriage. She had little interest in sex. Her work was paramount. Though people often thought of Japanese women as acquiescent— Yayoi Kusama was anything but that, she was determined, in the face of every cultural more, whether Japanese or American, to make her way into the U. S. art world, like one of her female champions, Georgia O’Keefe, to whom she wrote and consequently was helped by. Notwithstanding her diminutive female frame, she demanded to be heard and fearlessly threw herself into the task, sometimes causing quite a stir. She was a groundbreaker for women and a cultural anomaly for the New York art scene of the 1960s. Because we are so immersed in the immediacy of information coming to us, we forget what life was like for women 50 years ago, Kusama—Infinity reminds us of the enormity of crossing the Rubicon for women from a multitude perspective. Shockingly, we are confronted with famous male artists who co-opted elements of her innovations for their use; tellingly, an artist’s wife apologizes for him using Kusama’s genius for his work. Thus the audience is left stunned. While she starved, they made a fortune. Later in life when her meteoric fame suddenly burst into public consciousness, there was finally recompense. Despite her fearlessness, her shamelessness and shrewdness, she was thwarted, but then something unanticipated happened many years later after she broke down and went to live in a psychiatric hospital. A Japanese art doyen who was bound to exploit her work, ironically from the very same town that shunned her, set her career in motion once again and like the sun emerging from a long dark eclipse, shed light on Yayoi Kusama. A young Kusama
A CAPTIVATING STORY At last, after all of her suffering, we were awakened to her incandescent “infinite” vision of the universe. There is so much meat in this biography before one knows it, a bite has been swallowed before it has been chewed. There is more to this story than that of a struggling artist. It has the density that keeps one captivated throughout. Film Director, Heather Lenz did an outstanding job portraying this great female icon of the 21st century, presenting a bold and honest tableau of a life fraught with fiery determination, matched by hardship and rejection yet ultimately triumphant, however not without its scars. Putting together an array of archival photographs and footage from Kusama’s life paired by interviews with leading members of the art world Kusama—Infinity is a very thoughtful, compassionate and nuanced take on the patterns in her life. Her obsession to express something deep within her psyche repetitively and wish for it to be recognized—compelled by forces beyond her control, demanding to be heard as a unique force of artistic intelligence. Ms. Lenz with her excellent consortium of editors, composer and a throng of producers, created a poignant soliloquy to the magic going on inside Yayoi Kusama’s head, thus forced into the open by the artists will, which only in the last 15 years or so, has shown her compulsive genius. She is one of the most recognized artists in the world at this time, and her life story is no less an epic than her life’s work. Kusama—Infinity will forever be instilled in my mind as a great story; an excellent documentary. Ms. Lenz deserves all the praise in the world for this feat of cinematic exposition of a most unusual person’s life, Yayoi Kusama. •
92 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
NEW YORK, NY
HAUNTED NYC
A GUIDE TO GHOSTLY HAPPENINGS AROUND TOWN By Natasha Bazika
e all know New York City can be a pretty scary place most times—high rents, subway woes, dodging messengers on bikes, you name it! One thing you probably haven’t considered: Ghosts! The city is full of haunted buildings and with a history of over 400 years old it has seen its share of paranormal activity from river to river. So what better time to visit some of the most popular haunted dwellings than this Halloween? MERCHANT’S HOUSE MUSEUM Dubbed as Manhattan’s Most Haunted House, the Merchant’s House Museum was home to the Treadwell family for nearly 100 years. Some say they never left. In 1840, the youngest of the Treadwell’s eight children was born. Gertrude never married and lived her life in the house before her death in 1933. As the last member of the family to occupy the house, it is believed Gertrude watches over her family home. In the 1930’s, the house opened to the public as a museum. Visitors reported strange and inexplicable things, such as sounds, sights, and smells. As the only historic house museum in the Greenwich, SoHo, and NoHo neighborhoods, the museum is one of the most excellent surviving examples of architecture and cultural-elite in the 19th century. Venture into the shadows of history to listen to voices call into the dead of night, and hear true tales of the unexplained from people who experienced them. OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 93
IL BUCO 47 BOND STREET This acclaimed Italian restaurant serves more than just good food. The rustic Old World charm cellar is a labyrinth of brick caves, each leading to a selection of boutique wines. It is rumored to have inspired the great Edgar Allan Poe to pen The Cask of Amontillado. Owners and employees have reported a strange presence, which was later discovered there may have been a murder in the cellar. There are also occurrences where bottles have been opened. Whether that was one of the employees or the ghost of Poe, we will never know, however, sitting where Poe sat and sipping a glass of red wine this Halloween is a thrill in itself.
WASHINGTON SQUARE PARK Much like most parks within the city, Washington Square Park is filled with benches, beautiful trees, and even a water fountain. But it’s what lies beneath that makes this park uncanny. Centuries ago, before the park was built, it is said to have been an Indian burial ground and post-revolutionary war, the park was used as a graveyard. Later, a yellow fever epidemic claimed thousands of New Yorkers who were buried here along with criminals where the fountain stands today. Since then, visitors have reported paranormal sightings, such as feeling a cold breeze or even witnessing people dressed up in 18th-century attire disappear. Could evil spirits be lurking around the beloved Washington Square Park?
WHITE HORSE TAVERN Built in 1880, the White Horse Tavern has a reputation for its resident ghost, Dylan Thomas. The Welsh poet famous for his poem Do Not Go Gentle into that Good Night did not get the memo when he tried to beat his 18 whiskey-shot record and died in a hospital shortly after collapsing on the sidewalk, although other factors may have led to his demise. Since then, visitors have spoken about sightings of the poet sitting at his favorite table or walking around the tavern, often pouring shots or beers when no one else is around. Now that’s worth a visit!
NEW AMSTERDAM THEATER Broadway is a staple in the city, and the New Amsterdam Theater is a century-old main course, complete with a Broadway ghost. In the early 1900s a Broadway chorus girl, by the name of Olive Thomas caught the eye of many suiters with her beauty. She settled with Jack Pickford, but they didn’t have the greatest relationship, which led to an impromptu trip to Paris to mend their situation. Little did Olive know, she would die from a tragic overdose. Since her death, visitors reported seeing the beautiful young lady roam the halls of the theater. The best-known sighting is from a security guard who claimed to have seen a woman in a green beaded dress. She turned to him and blew him a kiss before walking out through the stage wall onto 41st street. The next time you go to the New Amsterdam Theater to enjoy the Aladdin production, you may see more than a magic flying carpet.
NEW YORK UNIVERSITY One New York University building has more than just books and students in it. NYU’s Brown Building was the former Triangle Shirtwaist Factory before the university acquired it in 1929. In 1911 a tragic fire broke out on the 8th floor before spreading to the 9th and 10th floors, where there were hundreds of workers, most of them women who sewed blouses. The fire claimed many lives, which some say still roam the building today, often scaring visitors.
BELASCO THEATRE Midtown’s Belasco Theatre is an architectural marvel; namesake David Belasco wasn’t ready to part with his beloved building. Many have claimed to see the spirit of Belasco walking around and wearing his popular choice of attire. The building was designed by George Kester and opened in 1907 as the Stuyvesant Theatre. Actors alike have claimed to see a lone dark figure watching from the balcony waiting to talk, but never heard a word. There have been reports of doors opening and closing at random and curtains swaying without being touched. The New York Times once reported a dog growling at a ghost every day at 4 pm; however, there are claims a second ghost, thought to be the lover of Belasco also haunts the theatre.
ONE IF BY LAND, TWO IF BY SEA
THE ASTOR ROOM
This restaurant in the heart of West Village is known for its romantic setting, but also for its rebellious local spirits—not the alcoholic kind. The romantic establishment was once former Vice President, Aaron Burr’s carriage house, which his daughter also occupied. Reports state visitors and workers noticed a woman in a black gown walk downstairs, but never back up. The theory is she broke her neck falling down the stairs. Other reports include champagne glasses breaking on their own and paintings falling off walls.
This Hollywood legend among many others never left what is now the Kaufman Astoria Studios in Queens. Silent-film heartthrob Rudolph Valentino often visited his favorite spot after filming at the nearby Paramount Studios, and today some say they have seen him sitting where he sat most days. Other sightings include Charlie Chaplin and Gloria Swanson.
ROOSEVELT ISLAND
THE MORRIS-JUMEL MANSION
Today The Octagon is a luxury high-rise building on Roosevelt Island, but from 1841-1894 the building had a less opulent purpose as the New York Lunatic Asylum. Some warn the halls to be spooky at night, with many stories of sightings and feelings of spiritual presence. It was the subject of Nelly Bly’s famous exposé Ten Days in a Mad House. Even Charles Dickens had a shiver down his spine when he was given a tour of the building in 1842.
One of the oldest houses in the City, this Georgian mansion was built by Roger Morris—a colonel in the British army—in 1765. Located in Washington Heights, it served as headquarters for both sides of the Revolution, with George Washington retreating here after his defeat at the Battle of Brooklyn. In 1810, the stately house was purchased by Stephen Jumel and his wife Eliza. After his suspicious death, Eliza remarried in 1832 to a haunted figure in his own right: Aaron Burr who shot Alexander Hamilton. Rumors of the supernatural have been documented through the years of the ghostly visage of Eliza appearing to visitors before gliding away. •
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NEW YORK, NY
REMEMBERING CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS By Clint Brownfield
hose of us who live in and love New York City consider the city to be the center of the world. Our tremendous diversity has and continues to make this a fact. Year after year, century after century, people from all over the world, sometimes in waves, arrived (and still do!) to make the city their home. Many Italians are certainly in that number with Giovanni da Verrazzano leading the way in 1524 when he first sailed into New York Harbor. True, Verrazzano may link Brooklyn and Staten Island with a bridge, but there’s another Italian who reigns supreme in this city at 59th Street and Eight Avenue—otherwise known as Columbus Circle. HONORING THE EXPLORER Born in Genoa, Italy in 1451, Christopher Columbus would live to complete four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean. He died in Valladolid, Spain, May 20, 1506. Although he never made it up to what is now New York City, he is remembered each October via a U. S. federal holiday, to commemorate his first landing in the New World in 1492. According to The Washington Post, the first Columbus Day celebration recorded in the United States was in New York on October 12th, 1792, held to honor Italian-American heritage. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1937 proclaimed October 12th to be Columbus Day, a national holiday. In 1971, the holiday date was A LOOK AT THE LANDMARK changed to the second Monday in Though it’s not technically true, Columbus Circle is considered to be the geographic center October. of the city because all official distances from New York City are recorded using the Columbus statue as the starting point. Like many landmarks in the city, Columbus Circle has evolved and changed through the years. Located at the southwest corner of Central Park, the Circle was included in the original plans of Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. They wanted to include a traffic circle at the park’s Merchants’ Gate entrance at Eighth Avenue. But, credit for designing the traffic circle, which opened in 1905, goes to traffic safety pioneer William P. Eno, whose other achievements include the rotary traffic plans around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and Piccadilly Circus in London. But, the circle’s centerpiece was already there—the monument to and statue of Christopher Columbus, by Roman sculptor Gaetano Russo. It was gifted to the City of New York in 1892 by Italian-Americans of New York in honor of the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s first voyage to the Americas. When the statue’s cornerstone was laid on September 17, 1892, there was a procession from Little Italy up to the Circle. The statue atop the monument was dedicated on October 12th, 1892. The 76-foot Columbus Column monument at the center of the circle consists of a 14-foot marble statue of Columbus atop a 27.5-foot granite column on a four-stepped granite pedestal. The column is decorated with bronze reliefs representing the explorer’s ships—the Niña, Pinta, and Santa María. Purists will notice they are Roman galleys instead of caravels; its pedestal features an angel holding a globe. If you work, shop, or enjoy the many restaurants in this area you will probably travel through the 59th Street Columbus Circle station—the sixth busiest subway complex in the city, with 23.2 million riders each year. When you exit, give a nod to Christopher Columbus, who to this day proudly stands at the center of world. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 97
NEW YORK, NY
PAWS DOWN, TAILS UP A SPOOK-TACULAR HALLOWEEN By Lori Zelenko
e’ve rounded up the wildest, craziest, most playful Halloween costumes we could find to help you get your fur baby outfitted for the spookiest holiday of them all. All costumes available at Chewy.com From the tech-enhanced to the wonderfully charming and traditionally entertaining, our favorite costumed characters have never been more appealing. Surely every one of you devoted pet parents will find a look among our favorites to turn terror into a treat on this All Hallows Eve. Don’t forget to go to our Instagram (petlifestylesmag/) to share pics of your fur child at their most Spooktacular, we’ll reward the most imaginative looks with some terrific prizes. So hop on that broomstick and get in the “spirit” of things!
YELLOW BRICK ROAD
ROBIN TO THE RESCUE
THE CAPED CRUSADER
Straight out of the Wizard of Oz is the Lion Mane Cat/Small Dog Costume. From Pet Krewe.
Batman’s sidekick is here to prevail against evil. From Rubie’s Costume Company.
It’s Batman, Gotham’s favorite hero, From Rubie’s Costume Company.
WELCOME MARGARITAVILLE
MISCHIEF MAKER
AHOY MATE
Start off your celebration with the Cheeseburger Dog Costume. From Rubie’s Costume Company.
Your fur baby will certainly make headlines in the Bone Thief Striped Dog PJs. From PetRageous Designs.
Your dog will be a treasure in this Pirate Dog/Cat Costume. From Pet Krewe.
98 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
FLIGHTY OR FLIRTY
GOING BATTY
BIRDS OF A FEATHER
You decide with this California Costumes Monarch Butterfly Dog Costume. From California Costumes.
This Halloween, take off with this spectacular Bat Dog Costume. From California Costumes.
For dogs who want to strut their stuff this Halloween, Peacock Dog Costume. From California Costumes.
LITTLE BEAST
TALL TAILS
Quite dashing is this Vampire Cape suitable for cats and small dogs. From Frisco.
The tallest terrestrial is a fun choice for All Hallows Eve. Try this Giraffe Costume on for size. From Rubie’s Costume Company.
TRICK OR TREAT Your pooch will be delighted with Howl-o-ween Treat Basket of Plush Dog Toys. From P.L.A.Y.
SUPER PUP Your dog will feel on top of the world in this Classic Superman Dog and Cat Costume. From Rubie’s Costume Company. •
OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 99
NEW YORK, NY
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER By Morgan Matlock
n just two-and-a-half years, Jeremy Murphy has turned his firm, 360bespoke, into an exclusive media agency in New York with a highly curated list of clients he proudly calls “a collection.” From violinist and fashion muse Charlie Siem to opera star Lestyn Davies and UK-based skincare line Heaven by Deborah Mitchell (she does facials for the Royal family), his roster spans arts, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Purposely boutique, he has been able to achieve high-value placements in Vanity Fair, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and other marquee media because “I have the most refined and talented clients. And I’m able to give them the ‘bespoke’ attention they deserve.” In his 20 years in media, including 14 at CBS, where he rose to Vice President of Communications, Murphy has also developed a keen understanding of luxury, having written, observed and experienced it himself. New York Lifestyles caught up with the executive to get his take on the world of first class. 100 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
With Charlie Siem (left) and Matt Czuchy (right)
How did 360bespoke begin? I had a lot of friends and colleagues in arts and luxury who were interested in PR, and I was looking for something new after more than a decade at CBS. The stars were aligned, so I just went for it. What does your company do best? Exquisite, quality placements and raising brand awareness elegantly. Also, we offer exclusivity. When we sign a client, say a luxury boutique hotel, we won’t represent a competitor or anyone in your space. I’m frankly surprised some agencies do. What is your definition of luxury? It’s different for everyone, but for me it’s quality and craftsmanship, aesthetics and the intangibles that come with it: does it make you feel better? Look better? Is it transformative? Where did you learn this? I grew up middle class, so it didn’t come until I turned 30 and started traveling for work. I began doing photo shoots around the world for the CBS magazine I created, Watch!, and from that perspective, I was able to see and come to live a unique lifestyle. But having been on the other side, there wasn’t a moment I didn’t appreciate or take for granted. Staying at the Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris is an experience you never forget. I spent some time there two years ago trying to write a book, which I’m still doing. It’s from the perspective of their signature red brioche muffin, which sounds ridiculous but at least it’s original. What did Diana Vreeland famously say? “Be best in your class or worst, but never be average.”
With Neil Patrick Harris
What’s the most luxurious experience you’ve had? Flying La Premier on Air France, which is their version of first class. I always dreamed when I turned 40 I’d wake up in Paris, and my first sight would be the Eiffel Tower. And so I booked a flight, and it was mind blowing from the start. You get to the airport, and a bellhop meets you at the curb and escorts you to the check-in area. From there you’re whisked to their lounge where spa services, vintage wines, and gourmet food awaits. After this pampering experience, you’re prompted to a private elevator which delivers you to a BMW—and the awaiting plane. I’ve never flown private, but I imagine this is pretty close. How do you stay on top of your game? You pay attention to everyone you meet, remember names and what people do, and then you’re able to drop that into the conversation. Saying something about Colin Field at Bar Hemingway tells the people you are talking with that you do belong to their worlds. Through a family connection—certainly not on my merits!—I also was able to gain membership at this private club called 5 Hertford Street in London, and that’s been an excellent resource for me because it’s so exclusive. Being able to take guests there any night when I’m in London is something extraordinary. I have to pinch myself, though, that I’m even a member. What’s your style? It depends on the day. At this very moment, it’s cozy casual. I used to wear a suit and tie, but now it depends on the occasion. When I’m working I like something classic. Being a small business owner, you don’t exactly have the budget to live a Bella Figura lifestyle, but I love the layered style of Brunello Cuccinelli, and I’m also a huge fan of the British dandy look of Tom Ford. Who are your style influencers? Charlie Siem, hands down. He is the epitome of style. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a hair out of place. He gets all his clothes custom made and eschews labels because he doesn’t want to be a walking billboard, which I admire. He is James Bond with a violin. I also have a dear colleague, Barry Alexander, who trains and manages classical musicians through Alexander Buono International, and he is always impeccably dressed no matter what the occasion. I think he wears a three-piece suit on weekends. He is what I aspire to. Jeremy Murphy
Where does one go in NYC to see and be seen? That depends wholly on your age, taste, and income. I’m not the hotel rooftop kind of guy. And I’m not into glad-handing at Michaels, I never feel like I’ve made it to that level. I like the Polo Bar because it’s classic, casual, and exclusive. I love the mystique of a hotel lounge. There’s something so calming yet romantic about it. I just experienced Jacques at The Lowell Hotel and I’m entranced. And I can’t get enough of jazz at Bemelmans in The Carlyle. The Cafe there is always a New York moment: I’ve seen Isaac Mizrahi perform there twice now, and Buster Poindexter three times.. But “off hours” I can’t resist a burger at JG Melon. Their cash-only policy is annoying, though. Who carries money? What is your idea of heaven? A vineyard in Provence, where I would host friends and family with lazy wine dinners. Reading, writing, sleeping, eating. And only 20 people will know how to reach me through an AOL dial-up account with a modem that screeches. No more smartphones. I was never that smart anyway. For more information on 360bespoke, visit 360bespoke.com. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 101
NEW YORK, NY
MY NEW YORK STORY DR. NICOLE BECKER, EVERY VOICE CHOIRS By David Porter
very Voice Choirs was founded at Teachers College, Columbia University, in 2012 by Dr. Nicole Becker, the music director of the Teachers College Choir. She, along with voice specialist Dr. Jeanne Goffi-Fynn, promotes the musical and personal growth of New York City youth by empowering them to discover and share their voices with confidence and pride. Every Voice Choirs (EVC) is one of the only children’s choirs in New York City that doesn’t require an audition. In fact, everyone who commits to attend rehearsals and practice at home is welcome to join. EVC singers are encouraged to share their ideas, choose and compose repertoire, lead sections of rehearsals and collaborate in the creation of performances. At all of the rehearsals and concerts, the choir aspires to reflect upon and educate its singers on global themes. Since 2015, the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs has recognized EVC annually for providing cultural services to New Yorkers.
HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE EVC was founded because there was a need for an un-auditioned choir which provided children with the highest level of vocal and musical training possible. “All kids come with a wide range of gifts, and many of those aren’t picked up at traditional auditions,” says Dr. Becker. “Kids need to be comfortable and to know their skills are valued when shared. We love to watch kids reveal themselves little by little over the course of our work together. We are also amazed by what they can do as they become more confident.” EVC offers three choral programs: The Every Voice Kids Choir (ages 7 to 10) and the Every Voice Youth Choir (ages 10 to 14); these core choirs, and rigorous choral experience, will lead to auditions for the Every Voice Concert Choir, EVC’s professional performing ensemble. 102 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
ON THE ROAD EVC maintains an active performance schedule and 2018 has been particularly busy. On New Year’s Day, the choir performed the National Anthem at the 2018 NHL Winter Classic at CitiField, which was broadcast live. This was followed with two concerts in honor of Martin Luther King at the Broadway Presbyterian Church and the EVC 2018 Winter Concert, Peace Seekers VI: Still I Rise, at Merkin Concert Hall. In April, the young choir joined the Edward Morgan Ballet at Holy Apostles Church for Ballet For The Homeless. The following month, EVC celebrated Spring and the Earth with its 2018 Spring Concert, Earth Songs. The concert repertoire included the world premiere of “Song of the Ocean” written by the EVC Youth Choir with composer Carman Moore. “We schedule our two major themed concerts a year in advance: a program on social justice in January and one for the environment in May. I have lots of time to think about repertoire,” says Dr. Becker, “but many of our collaborations and special performances come up in the middle of the programming season, and they require flexibility—when we got the call from the NHL I ended up canceling my winter vacation!”
Dr. Nicole Becker
Everyone who commits to attend rehearsals and practice at home is welcome to join. EVERY VOICE REALLY COUNTS Because EVC is a non-profit corporation, it depends on the support of the public. If Dr. Becker isn’t arranging concerts or leading rehearsals, she’s probably applying for grants. “We apply for about ten grants a year. If we are consistent about collecting and archiving materials, a grant application might take about 20 hours, but if we have to collect materials and edit video, it can be more than twice that,” explains Dr. Becker. Tuition fees cover about 25 percent of the operating budget, but EVC provides financial aid to families who need it, and for this past year the West Harlem Development Corporation funded scholarships. “Fundraising is not something artists learn about in school, so I’ve had a lot of on-the-job training,” says Dr. Becker. Dr. Becker received her Master’s Degree from Indiana University and her Doctorate of Education from Teachers College. “It takes a village!” she says, “but this is what I love most about EVC, the partnerships, and the collaborations with the kids and their families, and all those who support us so generously. For us, both onstage and behind the scenes, every voice truly counts.” For more information on Dr. Nicole Becker and Every Voice Choirs, visit everyvoicechoirs.org. • OCTOBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 103
NEW YORK, NY
TIME OUT WITH…
SOPHIE JACOBI-PARISI & SHIREEN ARANI By Bailey Beckett
t’s an overcast New York Monday, and Shireen Arani and Sophie Jacobi-Parisi are enjoying an after-work drink at Bar Pleiades in The Surrey, the chic hotel on the Upper East Side. The conversation comes easy and there are many laughs, and the casual observer might think they’re sisters or best friends. In truth, they are two of New York’s most respected matrimonial attorneys who have been adversaries in the courtroom. Tonight though, they are colleagues, meeting to share with New York Lifestyles an inside perspective into divorce in the Big Apple, and the balance between advocating for their clients by day and managing family at night. They couldn’t be more different.
Shireen Arani
Sophie Jacobi-Parisi
LIKE NIGHT AND DAY “I completely separate the two,” says Arani, a Partner in Matrimonial and Family Law at Katsky Korins LLP, one of the oldest mid-size general practice firms in New York. “I just cut it off.” Personable but direct, Arani, who recently moved from Manhattan to Short Hills, New Jersey with her husband and two children, specializes in representing high net worth clients in complex matrimonial and family law matters. “This is really a twenty-four hour a day service industry. Clients contact us at all hours of the day and night. If there is something I need to address, I leave the room and handle it. Most of the time I don’t allow the professional and personal spheres to bleed into one another.” “I’m the opposite,” counters Jacobi-Parisi, a Partner at Warshaw Burstein LLP, a venerated firm on Fifth Avenue. “It can be hard if you worry about your clients and their kids all day and then manage your own family at night.” She credits her experience in social work to help “set boundaries and compartmentalize work from home. It has made me appreciate my family even more,” says Jacobi-Parisi, who lives with her husband and two children on the Upper West Side.
SKILLED ADVOCATES The women have gained prominence amongst matrimonial attorneys in New York, known for resolving matters discreetly rather than litigating through a bullhorn. Whether representing a client with hundreds of million dollars or one with modest means, Arani and Jacobi-Parisi are skilled courtroom advocates—if it even gets that far, as many cases are settled out-of-court. “There are times you tell your client, ‘You can settle on x, or you can go to court and pay three times as much and get to the same place,’” Jacobi-Parisi says. “Nobody wins when you’re dissolving a marriage. You have to hire an attorney with whom you can be honest and trust, and whose judgment you value.” Arani agrees, explaining, “Many clients are able to appreciate and understand that advice, even though they are going through an incredibly difficult time.” There is a surprising comradery in the New York matrimonial bar despite the deeply adversarial process—perhaps due to the relatively small number of specialized practitioners. Arani and Jacobi-Parisi met a few years ago while litigating a very complex matter. “It was a difficult case to resolve, but we got along really well and were able to settle the matter before trial,” remembers Jacobi-Parisi. Arani adds, “You can move a case forward if you have someone who is frank and reasonable on the other side.” While the two attorneys talk easily, it’s not always possible when you’re litigating all day. “Shireen has a good personality like that,” says Jacobi-Parisi. “If I’m in the middle of a contentious case with someone, I find it difficult to meet socially while the case is pending.” The two are adept at managing an ever-changing legal landscape, from New York State’s evolution to no-fault divorces which allows either party to end the marriage without establishing any fault, to same-sex marriage and the custody laws that have evolved with it. Off hours, the women are not hobnobbing at Nobu but instead retreat home to spend time with their family and just unplug. JacobiParisi enjoys listening to podcasts like This American Life and Serial, which she does while folding laundry after the kids are put to bed. Arani, meanwhile, enjoys binge watching shows on her commute home. She particularly liked HBO’s Sharp Objects. “Women are often portrayed as victims in television and film, and I love this series because it’s rife with female villains,” she laughs. Thankfully, not in the courtroom. For more information on Katsky Korins LLP, visit katskykorins.com; for, Warshaw Burnstein LLP visit wbny.com. • 104 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | OCTOBER 2018
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