Vol. 4 #7 | September 2018
ean Shafiroff J
The Importance Of Philanthropy And Women’s Causes
ENTERTAINMENT Broadway/Movies/TV What’s New This Season
TRAVEL The Best of The Berkshires
FOOD & DRINK Historic Eateries To Add To Your List
HEALTH & WELLNESS High-Tech Injuries—Gone!
STYLE & FASHION Day & Night: Accessories That Work Overtime
The perfect hotel to create exceptional experiences for your meeting, wedding or travel needs! Enjoy European elegance in the heart of Saratoga Springs and footsteps from the best shopping, sightseeing and destination amenities that only Saratoga and Pavilion Grand Hotel can offer...
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— 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
THE DISTINCTIVE LIFE Distinctive Collection by Better Homes and GardensÂŽ 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 FORT LEE, NJ
This five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom penthouse is the largest in all of Bergen County. Entertain atop The Plaza in grand style, both indoors and outdoors, on the awe-inspiring wraparound terrace with unobstructed views of the Hudson River, George Washington Bridge and New York City skyline. Breathtaking upon entry, with vestibule, marble floors, and LED recessed lighting throughout over 6,000 square feet of living area. Top-of-the-line kitchen includes custom cabinets, granite countertops, and backsplash. Master suite includes dressing room, walk-in cedar closet, and full dual en-suites. Features living room, dining room, sitting area, family room, parlor, and more. Amenities include saltwater outdoor pool, tennis court, gym, and 24-hour doorman. $2,688,888 MLS# 1833032 | Closter, 201.660.8800 Victor M. Polce, Real Estate Associate Broker/Salesperson Š2018 Independently Owned and Operated by the Rand Family.
R A N D R E ALT Y, L IVE IN LUX URY
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
OLD TAPPAN, NJ This French style-Country Manor is situated in a secluded park, creating a two-acre oasis that’s rich with amenities and enhancements. Located in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Old Tappan and in all of Bergen County. A grand and elegant entrance foyer opens to approximately 7,500 square feet of luxury living space. This unique home offers six bedrooms with en-suite baths, five fireplaces, and a gourmet kitchen. The finished lower level with game room and living quarters is suitable for au pair/guests. Other special features include a three-car garage, swimming pool, and a custom loggia with an outdoor kitchen and cabana. $2,788,888 MLS# 1739945 | Closter, 201.660.8800 Attilio Adamo, Real Estate Broker Salesperson
NEW ROCHELLE, NY Set on a tree-lined street, this sun-filled Colonial has been renovated for today’s lifestyle. An entry foyer opens to a formal dining room, as well as a gorgeous living room that’s adorned with millwork and a fireplace. Gourmet kitchen has stainless-steel appliances, granite countertops, and access to yard and back stairs. Family room features coffered ceilings, fireplace, and French sliders to yard. An elegant den with fireplace and powder room complete the main level. Upper level includes a spacious master bedroom with en-suite bath and an expansive walk-in closet, three additional bedrooms (one with an en-suite bath), and a hall bath. Third floor has two bedrooms and a hall bath. Lower level offers media room, gym, and powder room. $1,575,000 MLS# 4824967 | New Rochelle, 914.576.1112 Elizabeth Winkler, Real Estate Salesperson
BLAUVELT, NY This five-bedroom, five-bathroom Colonial will impress you with its two-story foyer and two-story family room. Kitchen has access to deck and private yard. Mudroom. Master suite has two walk-in closets. The partially finished lower level has flexible space that includes a full bath. Hardwood floors on the first level. Butler’s pantry between the dining room and kitchen. The in-law suite has its own front and back entrances and is connected to the main home by a hallway. It offers an open-floor plan concept; granite and stainless kitchen; living room; hardwood floors; full bath; and washer/dryer. $1,150,000 MLS# 4824361 | New City, 845.634.1034 Margo Bohlin, Real Estate Associate Broker
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
Giving back to families
of LOCAL HEROES
*A portion of the weekend’s proceeds will be donated back to Folds of Honor.
• Family friendly bootcamp Olympics • Military-Themed Baking Wars • Woodloch’s Broadway-style Theme Show • Zip-lining, climbing wall, go karts, bumper cars, and more • “A Night of Heroes” cocktail party featuring a special Folds of Honor guest speaker
WOODLOCH.COM/FOLDS | HAWLEY, PA
Hear what Major Dan Rooney, Founder of Folds of Honor Foundation, has to say about Woodloch.
Contents
17
FEATURES 14 17 50 56
From The Publisher Cover Feature: Jean Shafiroff Through The Lens With Annie Watt Tech Talk: Smart Homes
STYLE 22 About Face: Best Grooming Products A Man Can Get 24 Day And Night: Accessories That Work Overtime 26 Eluit Salon: No Fear For These Shears
24
TRAVEL 28 34 36 40 42 44 47
The Berkshires: Our Guide To Everything From Culture To Zen Water’s Edge Resort & Spa: Connecticut’s Fall Getaway Stay, Sip & Relax: The Best Of California Maui: A Slice Of Paradise Switzerland: Your Next Travel Destination Prague: A Real-Life Fairy Tale Iceland: 4 Days In The Land Of Fire And Ice
28
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR 59 60 62 64 66 68 70 72 75
Notes From DB 252 East 57th Street: Penthouse Perfection The Lindley: Sensible Design In Murray Hill Around Town: Tribeca 40 Bleecker: A Rare NoHo Beauty Ross-Hand Mansion: Historic Home In Rockland County South Beach Meets Long Branch The Ultimate Guide To Declutter Your Home—And Life Spotlight: Selman Yalcin
8 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
72
Contents
77
78
MONEY MATTERS
77 Cadillac CT6: Steering Into The Future
HEALTH & WELLNESS 78 High-Tech Injuries: Easy Ways To Protect Your Body 80 In Pursuit Of Happiness 81 Dr. Robert Schwarcz: Cut With A Knife…Looks So Right
82
FOOD & DRINK 82 NYC’s Historic Restaurants: 6 Blasts From The Past 86 Restaurant Review: Woodpecker By David Burke 88 John Legend’s LVE Wine: Something To Sing About
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT 90 92 94 96
On Stage On The Big Screen On The Small Screen NYC Happenings: Under-The-Radar Museums
90
NEW YORK, NY 98 Entrepreneur’s Corner: Sharon A. Carr 100 My New York Story: Andrea Fornarola Hunsberger 103 Time Out With…Lyss Stern 10 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
98
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THE HOLISTIC DOG INSIDE THE CANINE MIND, BODY, SPIRIT, SPACE
STORIES BY LAURA BENKO PHOTOGRAPHS BY SUSAN FISHER PLOTNER
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OUR CONTRIBUTORS GERRIE SUMMERS Currently working on a novel, Gerrie admits that she enjoys creating worlds, but traveling the world is even better! As a travel writer, she has been to five continents (Australia and Antartica get ready) and too many countries to count and has written for Foxnews.com, Luxury Living, For The Bride, Everett Potter’s Travel Report, About.com Luxury Travel, Trip Savvy and others. She currently writes the lifestyle and travel blogs Summers Retreat and The Tranquil Traveler.
Vol. 4 #7 | September 2018 President / Publisher BILL MASON Editor-in-Chief Patricia Canole
Art Director Eric Duncan
Gerrie has covered a wide range of beats. She was the founding editor of Word Up! magazine, beauty editor and travel columnist for Today’s Black Woman and About’s Multicultural Beauty Expert. Her articles have appeared in numerous publications including Real Health, Essence, Billboard, and the NY Daily News.
Entertainment Editors Jenny Peters, Lori Simmons Zelenko
Fashion/Beauty Editor Ann Lawlor
Features Editors Clint Brownfield, Ruth J. Katz
Lifestyle Editor Griffin Miller
Gerrie aka YogiGer is a yoga, meditation and qigong enthusiast who now combines her love for travel with health, specializing in wellness, spas and retreats.
Real Estate Editor Daniel J. Bollinger
Special Projects Editor Norah Bradford
JANE STOLLER Jane Stoller is a Lifebizz Organizer, author and university instructor who found her passion in decluttering spaces, business processes and closets. The Structure Strategist loves to help companies and individuals getting more organized. Where Jane’s organizing knack comes from? She believes it must be her Swiss roots. Jane’s love for organizing began when she was six years old: As a young girl she was often found happily lining up her cats by size, her stuffed animals by color, her books by publication date. What makes Jane’s organizing approach unique is her holistic method. She starts redefining your office and continues at your home—or vice versa. The end results of her seminars, coaching and/or consultations? Reduced stress, increased happiness and productivity. “Organizing is a lifestyle, that will help you conquering anything.” Jane strongly believes that custom-tailored organizing systems and routines will massively enhance your work and life. JEREMY MURPHY Jeremy is a true bon vivant with 20 years of experience in luxury, style, travel and the arts. He currently leads the upscale boutique 360bespoke, which provides clients comprehensive media solutions in every discipline. His clients include violin virtuoso Charlie Siem, opera star Iestyn Davies, Royal Family skin care genius Deborah Mitchell, French fashion brand Vicomte-A and many other talents and brands. Previously, he spent 14 years at CBS where he created and ran its glossy lifestyle magazine Watch for a decade. There, he infused the publication with timeless elegance, with homages to Dior at the Hotel Plaza Athenee Paris, Babe Paley in the St. Regis New York, and a priceless cover of actress Julia Margulies wearing a couture Versace gown. Murphy began his career as a reporter with Knight Rider Newspapers and went on to serve as a writer and editor with Mediaweek, RitzCarlton Magazine and Simply the Best. He is also working on his first novel, 31 Bites, about spending a month at the Hotel Plaza Athenee Paris and its signature red brioche muffin, which he savored every day.
12 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Chief Photographer Annie Watt Contributing Writers Natasha Bazika, Bailey Beckett, Ivana Columbus, Debbie Dickinson Lee Gabay, Jenna Guarneri, Andrea Fornarola Hunsberger, TJ Johnson Dr. Peter Kalellis, Gretchen Kelly, Mark Laiosa, Jeremy Murphy Ellis Nassour, Ted Owen, Mari Pack, Darren Paltrowitz, David Porter Anne Raso, Diana Roberts, Jane Stoller, 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: Michael Paniccia
Sep. 30, 2018.
FROM THE PUBLISHER ow! I can’t believe how fast the Summer went by this year. Even though Fall doesn’t officially begin until September 23rd, that’s when the Autumn Equinox signals us with precisely twelve hours of daylight and twelve hours of darkness at the equator and then the daylight hours start to dwindle away each day. It’s also a time when we celebrate with a variety of Fall and Harvest Festivals. And getting to some of these outdoor events is half the fun as you may drive through some of the most beautiful Fall foliage that New York has to offer.
Check us out on the web!
Read Any of Our Issues In Digital Format on:
Issuu.com | Apple Newsstand | Our Website
Some of my top three favorite local festivals are The Annual Third Avenue Community Benefit Festival on Sunday, September 9th from 10 am to 6 pm, from East 66th to 86th Streets. There are about 800 local merchants and restaurants participating and will feature a variety of food, arts, antiques, rides, live music, and so much more. The most famous and longest-running street fair will be celebrating its 92nd year in Little Italy. Capture the fun at the 11-day annual Feast of San Gennaro from September 13th thru 23rd along Mulberry Street (between Houston and Canal Streets). Take your pick of mouthwatering foods like fried calamari, pizza, sausage and peppers, gelato, cannolis, and my Mom’s favorite—Torrone Nougat. My other neighborhood local favorite is the 92Y/Lexington Avenue Festival on September 30th from noon to 5 pm on East 70th thru 94th Streets. It’s just a perfect day of family fun with free activities for everyone and live performances all day long from Broadway shows, and bands. It’s a perfect day, so get outside and enjoy yourself and this great city. For some of us who don’t mind a short (45 minutes) drive over the Hudson River. It’s also quite beautiful as you sneak a peek at Mother Nature at her best displaying her colorful array up the Palisades. Your destination is a wonderful place called Demarest Farms in Hillsdale NJ; they are open from 8 am to 6:30 pm daily. Prepare that inner child to experience apple picking (and peaches too) right now. Be ready to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, tractor-pulled hayrides, and pet-friendly farm animals. This is a place where they press their own apple cider which is so delicious; they also have some of the best-baked apple cider donuts around. But my personal favorite is their freshly cooked and homemade potato pancakes. They are humongous and oh-so-good. Bring home a bag of them and don’t forget to pick up some applesauce for dipping. I look forward to hearing from you with your comments, suggestions and what you would like to see on the pages of New York Lifestyles and Pet Lifestyles Magazines. Go, Giants!
-Bill Mason
Publisher
14 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Visit us at: newyorklifestylesmagazine.com
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FEATURES
ean Shafiroff J The Importance Of Philanthropy And Women’s Causes By Mari Pack | Photography by Michael Paniccia
Hair by La Carezza and Henry de la Paz for Warren Tricomi | Make-up by La Carezza and Kimara Ahnert
hilanthropy is not an exclusive club,” writes Jean Shafiroff in her book, Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give (Hatherleigh Press). As a philanthropist, author, and public speaker who built her life around giving, Shafiroff insists that all of us, whether through volunteering our time or donating funds, possess the ability to uplift charitable causes. However, she also believes that those with resources have a particular responsibility to give back. She’s actively involved as a volunteer fundraiser, donor, and leader for various charities, especially women’s and children’s organizations, animal rights charities and institutions dedicated to underserved populations. Shafiroff is a board member for seven charities: New York City Mission Society, French Heritage Society, Couture Council (Museum of the Fashion Institute of Technology), The Jewish Board, Southampton Animal Shelter, Southampton Bath and Tennis Club Charitable Foundation, and Global Strays. She is also a New York Women’s Foundation board alumnus. She has been honored for her philanthropic work by the American Heart Association, New York City Mission Society, American Cancer Society, Surgeons of Hope, Jewish Board, and many others. We sat down to talk with Shafiroff about her experience volunteering with The New York Women’s Foundation, as well as about women’s issues and global causes. Dress by Dolce & Gabbana
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 17
Why do you like working with New York charities? I love the energy, vibrancy, and diversity of New York. It adds an exciting aspect to my life, and I want to be helpful to those who struggle here. We are all brothers and sisters. I’ve been a fortunate woman financially and educationally, and want to do my best to give back. Some people only want to give to their own, but in New York you have an opportunity to give to a diverse range of people. For instance, I’m a Catholic woman married to a Reform Jew, but still want to donate to causes that better the lives of immigrants, Muslims, and women of color. We know that you’re very interested in women’s causes. How did you first become involved with The New York Women’s Foundation? With this charity, a friend made the introduction. I was having lunch with a group of women about eight years ago when I suggested that we start a charity for women’s outreach. One of the women recommended that I look into The New York Women’s Foundation, which invests in organizations and leaders that strive for economic security, justice, safety, and health for women and families. She introduced me to the charity. At the time, Diana Taylor, Mayor Bloomberg’s partner, was the board president. I met with the head of the foundation and liked what they were doing. I suggested that I, along with two other women, host a luncheon. We invited the leaders of three charities to speak at Le Cirque for about 50 people. The following year, as my involvement with New York Women’s increased, I decided to host a luncheon on my own for about 80 women. That year, Diana Taylor was our keynote speaker. Since then, I’ve hosted luncheons for The New York Women’s Foundation. We’ve covered a number of topics, including prison reform. Last year, we had the chairman of the Independent Commission on New York City Criminal Justice and Incarceration Reform, Jonathan Lippman, speak. This month, I’m hosting a large cocktail party for New York Women’s in my home. I will also co-chair their gala in October, which I’ve done for several years.
The real key is to end discrimination against women, women of color, and to create economic stability. Which women’s issues are particularly close to your heart? We have to elevate women out of poverty. Women need to have economic stability and the ability to support themselves. I’m involved with The New York Women’s Foundation because we address these issues. The real key is to end discrimination against women, women of color, and to create economic stability. Why is the economic and personal empowerment of women important to you? Poverty is such a terrible crutch. Many women haven’t had the same opportunities as men in New York or around the world. Less than 7 percent of foundation funding in the United States goes to women and girls, while 1 in 4 women and girls are living in poverty in New York City. As far as I’m concerned, there isn’t a rhyme or reason as to why one person is born with resources and another without. I could just as easily have been born into poverty, and I believe that those who have resources have an obligation to give.
Dress by Oscar de la Renta 18 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Moreover, as a woman, I understand the needs of other women and want to be of help. Women must believe that we can do anything, and must be treated as the equals of our male counterparts. This means that women should have access to the same jobs and salaries. It’s good to see that women have more opportunities now than they once did.
Dress by Oscar de la Renta
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 19
Dress by B. Michael America Couture
20 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Can you talk about what it was like working as a woman on Wall Street? Well, my first career was as a physical therapist because it allowed me to get a job. I grew up middle class and knew that I would have to make a living on my own. I graduated with a BS in physical therapy from Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons and worked as a physical therapist at St. Luke’s Hospital in New York City. Nevertheless, I went back to get an MBA from the Graduate School of Business at Columbia because I was inspired by all the people around me with advanced degrees, from the daughter of President Jimmy Carter’s Secretary of State, Amy Vance, to my then boyfriend who was an MD. I originally planned to use my MBA in conjunction with physical therapy to go into hospital finance. Instead, I worked on Wall Street. Women have come a long way since those days, and I’m happy to see that. However, there’s still a lot of work to be done. How can women advocate for each other in professional settings? Rather than look to one another as competition, I think it’s essential for women to mentor other women. I never try to compare myself to someone who I can help nurture. Instead, women need to empower one another.
We understand that charities around the world are also important to you. What do you see on the horizon for global philanthropy? While philanthropy is ingrained in American culture, I hope that it will continue to grow globally. We need to improve the lives of those around the world. I have supported groups in developing nations during my travels to places like Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Saint Lucia, and Cambodia, where there is a great need for philanthropic efforts. Moreover, young people, including women, should focus on their philanthropic interests. I would like to see them participate in global as well as local efforts. My daughter started a non-profit, Global Strays, which supports animal rescue groups with a focus on developing nations. Any last words on New York City? I love my city. If I had a choice to live elsewhere, I would still choose New York. This is home to me. There are so many positive things happening here for women as well as men, and I want to be a part of that. • Dress by Victor dE Souza Couture
You were recently awarded the Daily Fashion Report’s Best Dressed in Ball Gowns. What is your relationship to fashion and how does the fashion industry help women? I think that women have a right to express themselves through fashion. It’s a hobby of mine; just the way stamp collecting is a hobby to others. I respect those who don’t have an interest in fashion, but I happen to love it. I’m not afraid to wear my gowns more than once in the same season either. Like anyone else, I have a budget, and I wear them to enjoy them. I also respect the fashion industry because it is a massive employer of women as well as men. It affords people the opportunity to support themselves.
If I had a choice to live elsewhere, I would still choose New York. This is home to me. SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 21
STYLE
ABOUT FACE
THE BEST GROOMING PRODUCTS A MAN CAN GET By Ann Lawlor
oday, for most men skin care is becoming a daily habit. After all, it’s just as important to take care of what’s on the outside as it is to train the muscles and eat healthy on the inside. We all know skin is the largest organ and once it’s damaged, it’s near impossible to return it to its original state. But, simple products that require little commitment are available and can prevent—or at least—slow the aging process. Here, some grooming products to add to your list. Go ahead, pick up a few (or all!)—you’ll be thanking yourself for years to come. THE BLACK 5/8” STRAIGHT RAZOR The Art of Shaving Go All Sweeney Todd on your shave with an old-school traditional razor. The straight razor requires some experience, so get expert instructions at their salons and learn from the experts. Take it to a whole new experience and use a strop and sharpen it yourself. Info: theartofshaving.com.
THE SHAVE MUG The Art of Shaving This bundle includes both a Pewter Shave Mug and Genuine Black Shaving Brush to help achieve a close shave. The twopiece mug and caddy can be used with shaving soap or shaving cream to create a rich, moisturizing lather. Using a shaving brush to apply your shaving cream helps lift beard hair for a clean, close shave. Also note: A shaving brush also exfoliates skin to help release trapped hairs, assisting in the prevention of ingrown hairs. Info: theartofshaving.com.
THE STYPTIC PENCIL Taylor of Old Bond Street A favorite of many, this styptic pencil exists to address the bane of a shaver’s life—accidental nicks on the face. Help seal it quickly using this excellent product. Info: tayloroldbondst.co.uk.
ULTIMATE COMFORT AFTERSHAVE BALM Truefitt & Hill It’s the moisturizer used by such luminaries as Winston Churchill, John Wayne, and Frank Sinatra to name a few who used this soothing moisturizer containing lanolin and Aloe Vera extract. Suitable for all skin types. Info: truefittandhill.com.
22 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
COCONUT OIL SOFT SHAVING CREAM Geo. F. Trumper Once applied to the skin, this shaving cream delivers a creamy lather ensuring the blade to glide for a closer shave effortlessly. The product also provides the most fantastic scent at the start of any day. Info: trumper.com.
NO. 89 EAU DE TOILETTE Floris London It’s Ian Fleming’s literary super spy, James Bond, with the scent to strike fear in his enemies. Orange and bergamot blended with lavender and neroli, warmed with a touch of spicy nutmeg and sandalwood combine to make this the quintessential English gentleman’s fragrance. Info: florislondon.com. •
STYLE
DAY AND NIGHT
ACCESSORIES THAT WORK OVERTIME By Ann Lawlor
s warm days turn cooler, it’s time for all New Yorkers to break out those charming accessories to brighten their fashionable days and nights. Not quite Fall ready? Here, ten accessories that are sure to please. ANN DEXTER JONES DESIGN ALEX AND ANI FOR HER CHARITY BY DESIGN Let everyone know your style with this ID bracelet from British-born Renaissance woman and mother of Mark and Samantha Ronson. Ann Dexter Jones’ Petrified Wood Inlay ID Bracelet definitely combines beauty and practicality. Info: anndexterjonesdesign.com.
KENDRA SCOTT Kendra Scott’s pretty quatrefoil logo makes a subtle appearance throughout with the delicate detailed Mystic Bazaar-Candice Wide Cuff framed in silver/gold gilded, scalloped trim. Info: nordstrom.com.
CD CHARMS Wear your favorite U.S. state or island charm with pride. Available in silver or gold, from Catherine Demarchelier, choose from earrings(shown), bracelets and necklaces featuring Shelter Island, Rhode Island, Florida, and a variety of other popular hot spots. Of course, every New Yorker will want to wear the Manhattan Island charm! Info: cdcharms.com.
24 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Alex and Ani Charity by Design launched the Avocado Necklace in collaboration with charity Green Beetz to maximize their efforts to encourage healthier relationships between young people and their food. The “healthy snack” jewelry set aligns with Green Beetz’s efforts teaching children to think critically about how food impacts their bodies, community and the world. Info: alexandani.com.
TIFFANY For years Tiffany has created a wide variety of unique charms, some of which are unique to individual stores and places to enable you to create something of special meaning—and quality. The Sterling Silver Airplane Charm features an oldfashioned propeller aircraft design straight from an Indiana Jones movie which will stir memories of adventures in far-away places. Info: tiffany.com.
MARGO MANHATTAN
FOR HIM TATEOSSIAN These cufflinks can rotate and fan out like a pack of playing cards. One of the Playing Card Cufflinks features King, Queen, and Jack while the other is Aces only. Info: tateossian.com.
JOHN HARDY This vibrant Royal Blue Sodalite Pendant Stone will take any fashionable guy straight through the day. It’s harnessed by the new John Hardy signature link detail featuring a silver box chain with lobster clasp. Info: johnhardy.com.
Get straight to the point with this bold bracelet from New York City’s own Margo Manhattan. The Slade Bracelet is crafted with a handsome leather band and sterling silver. Info: margomanhattan.com.
ALFRED DUNHILL Equally at home on a sailing yacht or discretely poking from a French cuff in the boardroom. The Turquoise Cadogan Bracelet from the British luxury house Alfred Dunhill definitely makes a statement and a timely reminder of sunnier days and blue skies. Info: dunhill.com.
TURNBULL AND ASSER Complete that fashionable look with these exquisitely crafted Sterling Silver Collar Stays which will handsomely maintain a sharp collar all day and night. Info: turnbullandasser.com. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 25
STYLE
ELUIT SALON
NO FEAR FOR THESE SHEARS By Bailey Beckett
here’s something uniquely beautiful about the modern-day salon. You go in feeling standard, and you come out looking like a star. It may last minutes, hours, a week, but at that time you feel transformed. That notion – the promise of beauty and glamour by someone else’s hands—is accessible and romantic all at the same time. And sexes be damned, men enjoy it, too. A buzz at Super Cuts may trim your hair, but a new look at a top salon is something you wear. New York Lifestyles put on our smock to investigate at the elite Eluit Salon on the Upper East Side. Long a favorite of celebs and Park Avenue socialites, the style sanctuary offers a full-service menu of treatments, from cuts to color to make-up and brows. Owner Eluit Rivera the best of the best: La Coupe, Joseph Martin, and Oribe before going solo. He has worked with talents as varied as J. Lo, Penelope Cruz, and Sheryl Crow and been highlighted in top fashion magazines like W, InStyle, Marie Claire, and Bazaar.
COLOR MY WORLD
STYLE PERFECTION
Eluit would be at the helm of our day of “man-pering,” but first it starts with color. Grays! Out with the grays! For men, it’s the proverbial crossroad. (The coincidence of a 25-year high school reunion the next month had nothing to do with it.) To help guide me in this quest was stylist, Lisa Estridge, a graduate of the school of Eluit. She’s followed him for years, and there’s no one more he trusts. Says Rivera: “Lisa creates the perfect shades, never compromising the richness of colors.”
Then Rivera leads us to his workspace which is separated from the rest of the salon. A curved wall gives it a sense of privacy but also an air of openness. He examines the color, the previous cut and the symmetry of the face, and confidently begins his work. All the while he is gregarious and engaging. The key is sharing and listening to the client, he says. Our session is seamless. From our time together, this much we know: he travels back and forth to Puerto Rico every other week to see family, he is the master multitasker balancing cut and conversation effortlessly, and that his sense of style extends to all areas of the salon, which he designed himself. It’s clean and pristine, with angle and art aplenty.
Estridge serves up some much needed Champagne as she inspects the color. Like many seasoned stylists, she’s curious, asks questions and offers counsel. She and Eluit speak in shorthand and he gives her the nod of approval before she disappears to create her potent cocktail: a gooey-cream that will coat my hair for the next 30 minutes. And then, voila! The dark locks teaming with grays is now a lighter shade of brown.
Previously quartered on 65th Street and Madison Avenue, he’s now housed in a top floor of a tall building off 60th Street (home of the neighboring Le Bilboquet, the upscale French restaurant). He finishes in an hour, and it looks fantastique. Finally, the brows. Yes, it’s all about the eyebrows (especially for this brand). Robin Narvaez is quick to recognize this and begins her work. She is a master stylist boasting a star-studded resume that includes the locks and lashes of Jane Fonda, Tilda Swinton, and Hillary Clinton. She also has a unique experience working with men, like Robert De Niro, Michael Douglas among others. Narvaez is almost incredulous that more men don’t participate. It can make you look years longer, she says, and more distinguished. She plucks, plucks, plucks, avoiding the wax for simplicity. The ouch is made easier by the “a-hhh”. The day is done, and we leave looking like a star. Hats off (literally and figuratively) Team Eluit. For more information on Eluit Salon, visit eluitsalon.com. •
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TRAVEL
THE BEST OF THE BERKSHIRES
OUR GUIDE TO EVERYTHING FROM CULTURE TO ZEN By Laurie Bain Wilson
ome escape to the sea and seaside villages for R&R. Others seek the mountains. It’s quite simple. As naturalist and author John Muir put it, “The mountains are calling, and I must go.” The Berkshires in Massachusetts are a mountainous, hilly getaway with frills—picturesque towns with celebrated museums and decorated inns and restaurants. And the arts scene in the Berkshires rivals New York City—in fact, it is home to the largest contemporary art museum in America, MASS MoCA. Besides, any destination that has a dog museum is a solid getaway choice (after much tail-wagging anticipation, the Museum of Dog opened this spring in North Adams). And, there’s this—now that September is here, the crowds and traffic have thinned, the room rates are lower, and the weather is still glorious. Leaf peeping is also a perfect time to escape the City, of course. Typically, the leaves peak in October in this neck of the woods. Here’s where to play, stay and eat in the bucolic Berkshires.
PLAY The Norman Rockwell Museum The illustrator, painter and author lived and worked on the grounds in Stockbridge, with pretty vistas, including gardens; sculptures created by Norman Rockwell’s son Peter; and apple trees planted for each Rockwell grandchild. Of course, it is also home to the world’s largest collection of Rockwell art. A prime picnicking spot and you can also visit Rockwell’s studio where he worked while living here. Info: nrm.org. Museum of Dog The North Adams museum, housed in the historic North Adam’s Quinn’s Paint & Wallpaper Co., is the puppy of pet rescue advocate David York. Exhibits include photographs by William Wegman, sculptures by Mary Engel and Kathy Ruttenberg and unique collections like rare antique dog collars and antique Steiff dog hand puppets. Rotating guest artists also exhibit. Info: museumofdog.com. 28 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Norman Rockwell’s Studio
Berkshire Botanical Garden’s Historical Center House One of the first botanical STAY gardens in the country, it also has a gallery and workshop space. The gardens are open until the beginning of October but there is a Harvest Festival on Columbus The Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge has quite a Day weekend, as well as a Holiday Marketplace for the holidays, including the presence in Normal Rockwell territory. The historic inn has that requisite porch with rocking chairs popular Gallery of Wreaths. Info: berkshirebotanical.org. for sips and people watching. An outdoor heated MASS MoCA The largest contemporary art museum in America with expansive year-round pool and hot tub, a library, a couple open-space galleries featuring exhibits from renowned artists like multimedia of on-site restaurants—did we mention a perfect artist Laurie Anderson, also stuns at night with special events and concerts. Home porch? And a purrfect cat, too. Norman is the to cafes, a restaurant, even a microbrewery that brews only locally-sourced grains resident feline who may or may not greet you. Info: redlioninn.com. and hops. Info: massmoca.org. 33 Main in Lenox is the baby of home furnishings entrepreneur Annie Selke. Each room is outfitted with Annie Selke products (think bedding, artwork, furniture, even robes)—and you can buy them across the street in the pop-up shop. Breakfast Edith Wharton’s The Mount A special place, The Mount is a cultural center that is a locally-sourced, farm-to-table, multi-course celebrates the legacy of Edith Wharton, author of more than 40 books including The experience. Info: thirtythreemain.com. Age of Innocence and Ethan Frome. Year-round art and literary events take centerstage, and there’s art, too--SculptureNow runs through the end of October, showing Gateways Inn & Restaurant This stylish off incredible displays of sculpture throughout the property. Info: edithwharton.org. inn in Lenox, the former summer cottage of entrepreneur Harley Proctor of Proctor & Gamble Ramblewild Adventure lovers will want to ramble here. Expect zip lines, rope fame, features nine rooms and two suites in gilded courses, trails for hiking or snow shoeing, event forest bathing. Nice: A full moon age mansion setting. Nice: full breakfast included. And a bar that features 180 whiskies (yes, 180) night climb on September 22nd. Info: ramblewide.com. and a piano lounge named The Garter in a nod The Appalachian Trail A trail runs through it. Ninety miles runs through to Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Merry Wives of Winds. Info: gatewaysinn.com. Massachusetts; You can hike all of it or part of it. Info: appalachiantrail.org Clark Art Institute Another fabulous museum in the Berkshires, this one in Williamstown, makes good use of its outdoor space (140 acres) for exhibiting art. This fall check out Thomas Schütte’s Crystal, a full-scale architectural installation on a meadow inn near the top of Stone Hill. Info: clarkart.edu.
The Red Lion Inn
Tourists is an uber-hip North Adams hotel and riverside retreat that’s a shout-out to a retro roadside motor lodge. The 48-room spot sits pretty on the Hoosic River and is home to woodland trails and sculpture installations. Guestrooms are outfitted with organic materials. Info: touristswelcome.com. Blantyre The guestrooms and spa at the sprawling Gilded-Age property got a recent multi-milliondollar facelift and there’s a new bistro, too, as well as the exclusive, first-ever Dom Perignon Champagne Salon and La Cave. Info:blantyre.com. Hotel on North Boutiquey and playful, this hotel has a downtown Pittsfield location with 45 guestrooms (some with gas fireplaces) and done up in handcrafted furniture made locally. Like to hike? The Take a Hike package runs through October 20. Info: hotelonnorth.com.
Blantyre
Canyon Ranch Serenity now. You want a rub, a wrap and a wellness experience—at a pricy-but-worth-it cost? This is your spot in Lenox. Come to relax, to lose weight, to regroup, it’s world-renowned and for good reason. Info: canyonranch.com/lenox. Porches at Mass MoCA Retro chic Porches sits pretty in the heart of North Adams, across the street from MASS MoCA. The inn features 19th Century Victorian row homes (once home to generations of mill worker families) that are whimsically decorated (paint-by-number artwork, vintage lamps) for a “granny-chic” experience. Translation: really cool and not your grandmother’s inn. Info: porches.com. Orchards Hotel Timeless and elegant, without the fuss, and in the heart of Williamstown with a Berkshires Mountain backdrop, this hotel is affordable, and most rooms have a fireplace for crisp fall nights. Info: orchardshotel.com.
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EAT Lion’s Den Downstairs in the Red Lion Inn is this fun-loving, popular hang for good music, fun sips, solid pub grub and a casual ‘tude. Info: redlioninn.com/restaurants. Simple Taste (S/T) This gastro-pub in the exquisite Wheatleigh luxury hotel has a seasonal menu with shared plates and inventive sips served in a palazzo setting. Info: wheatleigh.com. Number Ten Located in Great Barrington, it’s number one for small plates and cocktails. It’s the new name and reimagined concept for Castle Street Café which has been here for 25-plus years. Info: numbertengh.com. Nudel Berkshire-born-and-raised owner and chef Bjorn Somlo opened this eatery in Lenox to give a lot of love to local artisans and farmers, which he does in his seasonal and simple but elegant dishes. Info: nudelrestaurant.com. Alta Restaurant and Wine Bar Did someone say wine? Enjoy a pour and Mediterranean-inspired food, too—Alta is one of the most sought-out restaurants in Lenox. Info: altawinebar.com. Balderdash Cellars For a tasting and a concert, visit this shiny new facility in Richmond. The winery brings grapes from wicked good California vineyards (Paso Robles and Edna Valley) to the Berkshires. Info: balderdashcellars.com.
Dining at The Red Lion Inn Green Room at Kemble Inn
The Southfield Store Barefoot Contessa author Ina Garten loves the French toast at this little gem in Southfield. Grab a breakfast sammie and off you go to explore the Berks. Also visit sister restaurant Old Inn on The Green, where you want to go for dinner by candlelight and locally-sourced food. It’s also a highlyrated bed and breakfast. Info: southfieldstore.com. Green Room The new Green Room at Kemble Inn is where you will sip a local brew (Big Elm Farmhouse Ale) or craft cocktail like the Cherry Whiskey Sour (South Boston Whiskey, egg white, cherry juice, sour mix and bitters). Info: kembleinn.com/eat. Public Eat + Drink Casual and popular in North Adams, it’s all about American comfort food that’s sourced locally, and craft beers, too. Food with a hug. Info: publiceatanddrink.com. For more information on The Berkshires, visit Berkshires.org. • The Southfield Store
30 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
POCONO MOUNTAINS, PA
We bring the spirit of Africa to life in the world’s coolest indoor waterparks at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions. Our parks feature rides and activities that everyone in your family will love. Every splash and smile are pieces of an unforgettable adventure your family will cherish forever.
KALAHARIRESORTS.COM | 1-877-KALAHARI
© 2018 Kalahari Development LLC
. E C N O G N U T HE Y ’ R E Y O . S E I R O M E M H T I W M E H T D F L OO
Georgian Lakeside Resort
Marine Village Resort
Sun Castle Resort
Located in the heart of Lake George Village, this full service resort offers accommodations, dining, and event hosting. With short walks to everything, The Georgian has a beautiful lakeside location with 157 rooms and suites. The resort has a lakefront pool, patio and Cabana Bar. Dining is offered at Giovanna’s on the Lake with entertainment in the Terrace Room overlooking the lake. Georgian guests enjoy free concerts, lake cruises as well as Six Flags Great Escape theme park.
Family resort located in the center of Lake George that features a 300-foot beach to relax and play. Docks are available for guest boats or boat rentals. Relax with family and friends on the large patio and pool area. The Morgan Restaurant serves made to order breakfasts daily and grills are available throughout the property for guest use. Perfect choice for those who prefer a location with a short walk to the village while offering a host of resort activities.
The resort spans 15 acres of luxurious lakefront property and outdoor activities abound with 2 beaches, a heated outdoor pool, 2 children’s playground areas. Modern townhomes offer 2-bedroom, 2.5 baths with full kitchens, dining area and living room and two bedroom villas offer outstanding lake views from the living room as well as private balconies overlooking beautiful Lake George and the Adirondack Mountains. Guests have dining privileges at The Inn at Erlowest, the only AAA 4 Diamond Restaurant in the region located on the same property.
384 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-525-3436 / 1-800-LAKE-GEORGE georgianresort.com
370 Canada Street, Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-727-7090 / 1-518-668-5478 marinevillageresort.com
3178 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-518-668-2085 suncastleresort.com
Scotty’s Lakeside Resort
The Lodges at Cresthaven
The Quarters at Lake George
Newly rejuvenated and located on 7 expansive acres in Lake George Village and 350 ft. of beautiful shoreline, the resort is a place for fun with friends and family. Enjoy the large sandy beach or the beachside pool. Canoe, paddleboat, an interactive arcade, beach volleyball, and Scotty’s Café and Beachfront Bar offer plenty of activities to fill the days.
A premiere vacation destination just 1.5 miles from Lake George Village. The family-sized lodges feature two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a large great room with a fully-equipped kitchen, a living area and a dining area. Also features 300 ft. private sandy beach and heated indoor and outdoor pool. The on-premises Boathouse restaurant features waters edge dining with beautiful views of Lake George.
Located less than 1 mile from The Village of Lake George, the former summer home of Georgia O’keeffe. Luxurious vacation rentals feature newly remodeled lakefront accommodations with spacious, private units with abundant amenities and breathtaking views of the Adirondacks. From cozy fireplaces and jacuzzis to private balconies, beach access and outdoor grills, the townhouses at The Quarters have it all. Open all year long.
2896 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-877-749-0930 scottyslakesideresort.com
3210 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-800-853-1632 cresthavenlodges.com
3014 Lake Shore Dr., Lake George, NY 12845 1-518-668-4901 lakegeorgeresorts.com
TRAVEL
WATER’S EDGE RESORT & SPA CONNECTICUT’S FALL GETAWAY By Jeff & Stephanie Sylva
he setting sun cast a warm glow on the Long Island Sound. Seated at a table on the outside deck, we enjoyed a perfect view of natural pastel creations. Clinking our wine glasses, we said, “Let’s do this again tomorrow.” So we did—but this time with a window seat in the restaurant with the same glorious view. Where is this idyllic setting? Only a two-hour drive from New York city (also easily accessible by Amtrak/Metro North) in Westbrook, Connecticut, Water’s Edge Resort & Spa shines as one of New England’s finest beach resorts. Water’s Edge has the unique distinction of being a member of both Preferred Hotels & Resorts and Historic Hotels of America—the only resort in Connecticut with these two prestigious designations. We enjoyed two days at the resort and never tired of the magnificent views and serenity experienced from various spots on the resort. Whether it was while seated at a table at Dattilo’s Fine Italian Restaurant, the deck of the Seaview Bistro , the Sunset Bar & Grill, or from a simple Adirondack chair on the Great Lawn, the setting was picture perfect. It’s not surprising that Water’s Edge is an extremely popular wedding venue.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN Water’s Edge began as a quaint seaside hotel over 30 years ago, originating from the vision of humanitarian, Bill Hahn, well known as a funloving hotelier. More importantly he knew how to make sure his guests had fun as well, often turning the hotel dining room into a Broadway stage. Hahn’s primary goal for his seaside resort was to provide vacationers a refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life. Today Hahn’s vision has become a leader among Connecticut hotels and destination resorts. The resort has a variety of accommodations, both seaside and garden views. Rooms reflect a balance between historic charm and contemporary comforts. The main hotel offers nearly 100 guest rooms and suites, many with balconies. Sixtyeight seaside one- and two-bedroom villas; a pair of 5- and 4-bedroom beach houses; a 2-bedroom cottage; and the resort’s newest addition, 20 luxurious 2-bedroom villas on the water round out the offerings. These varied accommodations are spread over 25 acres of lushly landscaped grounds. 34 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
DINING WITH A VIEW The resort also features a variety of restaurants. Be sure to make reservations for the resort’s flagship restaurant, Dattilo’s Fine Italian, which is housed in a new dining room with outstanding water views. Creative, highquality cuisine and impeccable service assured us an outstanding dining experience. The menu as well as the wine list are stellar, featuring many Italian favorites such as hand-crafted ricotta gnocchi and ravioli filled with lobster and finished with a brandy paprika sauce. Al fresco dining is available, weather permitting. It’s also the venue for the resort’s extremely popular Sunday Brunch. For more casual dining the Seaview Bistro & Bar has cleverly combined the classic touch of a New England tavern with the panache of a shoreline bistro. Offering an innovative list of signature cocktails, blended tropical drinks, premier wines, and fine craft beers, the Seaview Bistro & Bar has a lively atmosphere and features live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays. The menu boasts an enticing mix of seafood specialties and tavern favorites including their award-winning New England Clam Chowder, Shoreline Crab Cakes, Seafood Nachos, and a perfectly grilled catch of the day. Meat lovers can indulge in a Bistro Burger or Steak Frites. At the Sunset Bar & Grill, you’ll enjoy its laid back feel and those picturesque views. The menu is casual and features a number of clam shack favorites such as raw bar selections, fried clams and oysters and, of course, the traditional New England Lobster Roll. Whether at Sunset Bar & Grill or the newly opened adjacent Vista Mare Bar, it’s always a fun time with daily live entertainment including jazz, blues, or classic rock. Be sure to check the Water’s Edge website for special weekly-themed dinners at their various restaurants. Some offerings have included a Lobster Boil, Wine & Dine, and Pasta Night.
AMENTIES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS A full complement of amenities kept us busy when we weren’t admiring the scenery. At the top of this list is the Spa at Water’s Edge with its full menu of treatments and services. We enjoyed a relaxing couple’s massage, followed by some quiet time in the serene relaxation room. Other amenities include a well-equipped fitness center, an indoor pool, and two tennis courts. A variety of overnight stay packages and Spa packages are available, a number of which are connected to the resort’s line-up of entertainment. And for those who can actually break away from this serene atmosphere, there’s much to do in the “neighborhood.” Shoppers will find plenty of stores at the Tanger Outlets of Westbrook and the outlets at Clinton Crossing. Other attractions include the Connecticut Wine Trail, Essex Steam Train and Riverboat boat tours of the Thimble Island chain, Mystic Seaport and Aquarium , and the casinos at Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods. There’s no question we’ll return: The resort’s staff is welcoming and treat guests more like friends family. For more information on Water’s Edge Resort and Spa, visit watersedgeresortandspa.com. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 35
TRAVEL
STAY, SIP & RELAX THE BEST OF CALIFORNIA By Diana Roberts
t’s harvest time, and we all know what that means: The grapes are ripe for picking, stomping and, eventually, savoring a fine wine. And where best to sample these grapes than at the vineyards of Napa, with a side trip to nearby spots for pure relaxation. Here are some of our favorite places to add to your bucket list. MEADOWOOD NAPA VALLEY Set among 250-acres of rolling hills of wine country, Meadowood recently launched a new program that celebrates the Napa Valley way of life by including wine. Partnering with local organic and biodynamic wineries, the new retreat incorporates wine tasting but with a health-conscious twist. Guests can learn about biodynamic and organic wines while enjoying outdoor activities, as well as fitness classes, nutritional coaching, cooking classes and the Meadowood Spa. The Wine and Wellness program is offered in three- and fiveday packages but may be extended for those who want a more rigorous health program. All packages include accommodations, wine tastings at featured partnering wineries, special pricing on spa services, unlimited group fitness classes, and more. Meadowood also has an on-site certified health and nutrition coach and offers an array of complimentary fitness classes as well as golf, croquet, tennis, and hiking trails. If you’re looking for a private, elegant, and relaxing getaway, The Estate Suite at Meadowood Napa Valley is ideal. With a cottagestyle interior, the interior of the suite features a king-sized bed, wood-burning fireplace, wet bar, and workspace. The master bathroom includes a two-person soaking tub with a view of the private garden, marble, and heated floors. The exterior features French doors that open onto a private terrace overlooking the resort’s fairways and forest. Info: meadowood.com. 36 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
CALISTOGA RANCH, AN AUBERGE RESORT Napa Valley Tucked into a hidden canyon in Napa Valley, Calistoga Ranch provides a “bungalow in the woods” experience that combines luxury accommodations and sophisticated design with an intimate, authentic connection to the natural surroundings. The 157-acre property features 50 secluded and free-standing guest lodges, along with a private restaurant exclusive for their guests. Calistoga Ranch’s Lakehouse Restaurant features glass walls and overlooks the property’s Lake Lommel and Oak Groves. They offer a Wellness & Wine program (reservations required) including a guided hike over to Davis Estate Winery, where a private wine tasting will be awaiting your arrival. There, you’ll enjoy a tour of the property and a tasting. Thankfully, the Ranch will drive you back home, so you can sample as much as you want. Info: calistogaranch.aubergeresorts.com.
CARNEROS RESORT AND SPA Napa Valley The Carneros Resort and Spa recently finished a $3.5 million renovation of its 5,919 square-foot spa, which includes a new spa entrance, guest reception, and retail space, an expanded relaxation area, as well as newly-designed treatment rooms and suites (think: upscale farmhouse). New treatments include the Body Botany Massage which integrates a choice of natural ingredients with corresponding benefits, the Tune Me Up Tri-sensory Experience in an anti-gravity chair, and more. The resort also holds wellness retreats and activities in partnership with Napa Valley’s leading fitness provider, Donavan’s Wellness Solutions (DWS). Led by DWS experts, fitness activities include private MYZONE heart rate classes, fitness fusion, yoga classes, and a high-intensity boot camp. Groups can also take part in a team-building Olympic-style competition or enjoy a vineyard run/walk throughout nearby vineyards. Individual 60-minute fitness assessments and recommended training sessions are available as well. Info: carnerosresort.com. SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 37
QUAIL LODGE & GOLF CLUB Carmel Valley About a three-hour drive from Napa is Carmel Valley situated on the spectacular Monterey Peninsula. It’s also home to much lesser known— but equally fabulous--vineyards. One standout, Quail Lodge & Golf Resort, is nestled amid lush fairways, oak-studded meadows, and sparkling lakes. A good recipe for some serious relaxation. The hotel has an 18-hole championship golf course, tennis courts, swimming pools, bocce court, a movie/presentation room, restaurant, bar, expansive meeting and banquet space and extensive nature trails which all combine to create a true destination experience. Edgar’s, an upscale restaurant and sports bar located at the Quail Clubhouse is named after the Lodge’s legendary founder, Edgar Haber. Try the California eclectic cuisine with an emphasis on fresh local farm-totable ingredients and organic produce. Waypoint offers casual, yet elevated fun fare complemented by a selection of craft beer, whiskey, wine, and cocktails, providing the perfect hangout spot for locals and hotel guests alike. Paying homage to the art of travel and the modes of transportation that move us along on our different journeys, Waypoint features real motorcycles provided by the Moto Talbott Collection in Carmel Valley, motorsports-themed artwork by renowned local artist Molly McCall, and a selection of interactive games to be enjoyed. Info: quaillodge.com.
THE INN AT SPANISH BAY Pebble Beach Deliciously situated on the Western edge of the Monterey Peninsula along the Pacific Ocean, within the Del Monte Forest and accessible via 17-Mile Drive, sits The Inn at Spanish Bay, part of the Pebble Beach Resorts. The Resorts turn 100 in 2019, and they’re gearing up for a year-long celebration. Also in 2019, Pebble Beach Golf Links will host its sixth U.S. Open Championship. The Inn at Spanish Bay has 252 guest rooms and 17 suites, featuring gas-burning fireplaces. The view doesn’t get better, overlooking The Links at Spanish Bay, their 18-hole championship golf course, and the Pacific. Since it can be a little cool, there’s an outdoor terrace with nine fire pits. Dining experiences include Pèppoli and Roy’s both having received Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator for six consecutive years. Thanks to Pebble Beach Resorts’ partnership with Lexus, guests can “borrow” one of their test drive cars for two hours—a great way to explore the amazing coastline of 17-Mile Drive. Naturally, there’s an app—the Pebble Beach app, powered by IBM Watson’s cognitive capabilities. Info: pebblebeach.com/accommodations/theinn-at-spanish-bay. • 38 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
The PReseRve aT BouldeR hills
Come Home to 3500 Acres of The PReseRve aT BouldeR hills Adventure & Luxury Living Come Home to 3500 Acres of Adventure & Luxury Living
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87 Kingstown Rd ThePreserveRi.com - 401.539.4653 87 Kingstown RdRichmond, Richmond, Ri Ri - ThePreserveRi.com - 401.539.4653
TRAVEL
MAUI
A SLICE OF PARADISE By Patti Pietschmann
aui moves to its own tropical beat. Laid back with a touch of sophistication, the island offers everything to make a vacation special. While there are plenty of diverse places to bed down—from Airbnb to over-the-top luxury resorts, three properties stand out above the rest in distinctiveness and style. One is all glitz, glam, and water-centric. Another caters to monied Millennials, and the last attracts a quieter crowd. FAIRMONT KEA LANI MAUI Arriving at the Moroccan-styled Fairmont Kea Lani Maui proves as seamless as it gets. A welcoming staff greets you with genuine Aloha smiles as they inform of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and complimentary parking. It’s only the beginning. The roomy suites afford living areas featuring a large entertainment center. The bedroom features an impossibly comfortable king bed with an adjoining bathroom with a blissful soaking tub and separate shower stocked with luxurious lotions and potions. There is a large lanai accessible from the living room and sleeping area that looks out onto the pool and ocean. One couldn’t ask for more creature comforts. The blue Pacific is a bit of a hike from the room but who cares. There are plenty of towels accessible to guests at beach and pool along with ice water and even sunscreen for your use. For true relaxation, visit the serene Willow Stream Spa for its menu of top treatments that range from hair masques to foot care, toning sessions and a lot more. Take in a yoga session while soaking up the tropical splendor. Evenings start at the Luana Lounge where the barkeeps pour potent specialty drinks and live music provides the unique romantic ambiance and unbeatable sunsets. Be sure to book a table at Ko which specializes in healthy menus. The Ti Leafed Wrapped Island Fish with Mango Salsa, Coconut, and Molokai Sweet Potatoes is a standout. Info: fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui. 40 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Lagoon Signature
ANDAZ MAUI It’s a digital delight for the young, vibrant and restless who frequent this 300-room waterfront hotel, Andaz Maui is all hooked up to computerized tablets. Everything—including check-in—is hassle-free. Each of Andaz’s 300 spacious rooms and suites is attractively appointed with tropical style furnishings created with woods and soothing colors—all magnificent overlooking Haleakala. Select a room with a soothing neutral palette or villa with a private plunge pool and inspired views of the Pacific. There are elegant suites for big spenders that span 850 to 1,500 square feet and villas with full kitchen, private plunge pool, and hot tub. Although the hotel charges a resort fee of $45 a night per room, you do get a lot of bang for the cost: daily outrigger canoe excursions, yoga, Pilates and fitness classes, ukulele and hula lessons, lei making, paddleboard lessons and more. For some extra pampering book a treatment at the Japanese-style Awili Spa that offers specialized services called ‘Journeys’ designed to bring you to that ultimate moment of Zen. And they do.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Be sure to stop for cocktails at the charming Lehua Lounge, named after Hawaii’s brilliant red blossom. The outdoor venue features farmto-table appetizers and high-octane artisan cocktails, hand-infused with fresh fruit juices. Favorite dishes include the watermelon salad and black sesame noodles and the Wagyu beef—so good. At the Ka-ana Restaurant portions of well-prepared dishes are made more enjoyable with views of terraced pools that cascade to the ocean. Don’t miss Morimoto restaurant offering outstanding surf and turf fare in an elegant setting. Info: maui.andaz.hyatt.com.
GRAND WAILEA The oh-so-glam Grand Wailea—boasts a most spectacularly, jaw-dropping designed hotel with megabucks worth of art, sculptures and lots of marble. But water, water everywhere is the theme of this 776-room acropolis of tropical relaxation that sits smack on the beach in one of the most exclusive residential areas of Maui. Much of the H2O is found in the Spa Grande—which is the hotel’s main attraction for many pamper-seekers. Lavishly large and marbled, the gorgeous facility is dedicated to water therapies, which trust me, really do the trick. Massages also rule and the therapists have proven some of the best on the island. When you arrive at the spa you are escorted to the Healing Waters of Maui hydrotherapy soaks and then accompanied to one of 40 treatment rooms for a massage, facial or whatever your preference. Grand Wailea
Although tempting, one doesn’t spend every hour of the day in the spa. Grand Wailea has gorgeous rooms with lanais equipped with all the modern necessities (Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, coffeemakers, robes, mini fridges and more). You have a choice of nine pools, water slides, cruiser bikes for additional exercise; it’s also a fun way to take a peek at the pricey homes that line this exclusive area of Maui. A favorite dining spot at Grand Wailea is the romantic Humuhumunukunukuapua’a (a mouthful to pronounce and named after Hawaii’s fish) that sits on beautiful lagoons and offers some of the best appetizers including Hamachi Carpaccio Spiced with Hawaiian Chili and Ginger Shave Ice. Absolutely delicious but then so is the New York steak. Be sure to book a table for two at sunset—a surreal experience. Info: grandwailea. com/Waldorf_Astoria/Grand_Wailea. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 41
TRAVEL
SWITZERLAND
YOUR NEXT TRAVEL DESTINATION By Jenna Guarneri
witzerland is not only known for its unique landscape of some of the highest mountains in Europe, but also for its hills, lakes, rivers and glaciers, picturesque villages and medieval cities. Switzerland is home to 8.1 million people and is surrounded by Austria, Liechtenstein, France, Italy, and Germany. Here are our recommendations of where to go and what to do for a taste of this diverse country and its unforgettable charm. CHUR
Chur is the oldest town in Switzerland and has a settlement history of over 5,000 years. The region is most influenced by the German culture and is the primary language. Over the past 20 years, Chur has been renovated continuously and is now free of traffic. Stop by the 800-year-old Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption or pop into the town’s 300 shops for the largest shopping center between Zurich and Milan. While you’re visiting the quaint town, stay at the four-star Romantik Hotel Stern. The 333-year-old historic inn skillfully combines the architecture, hospitality, and comfort of the region. The Romantik Hotel Stern is a culinary focal point of the region thanks to its 14 Gault Millau points. Traditional Engadin and Veltliner recipes are perfectly prepared and combined with modern seasonal dishes on the menu. 42 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
PONTRESINA Next to the posh town of St. Moritz, you’ll find the picturesque town of Pontresina which offers the best of both worlds; an elegant atmosphere set within a peaceful mountain village. Located at the heart of the town, you’ll promptly notice the magnificent gates and stunning 19th-century façade of the Grand Hotel Kronenhof. The historic monument dating back to 1848 was renovated in 2007 with Alpine-chic rooms, a state-of-the-art wellness complex, and magnificent new common areas. This fivestar superior hotel is also a multiple awardwinning architectural masterpiece affording sublime views. The grand hotel lobby leads to smaller rooms with special themes: The Fireplace Lounge and Salon Bleu Room feature stucco ceilings adorned by gold and pastel colors while the Rose Room is embellished with golden walls. The hotel also houses the oldest bowling alley in the country and offers a culinary variety within three distinct restaurants. Be dazzled by The Grand Restaurant found within their neobaroque ballroom with opulent fresco ceilings and lavish chandeliers. The Kronenhof ’s gourmet restaurant, Kronenstübli was awarded 16 Gault Millau points and is set within a radiant wooden parlor offering Italian-Mediterranean and French cooking. The third restaurant, Le Pavillion, offers outdoor seating that takes in the spectacular view of the Val Roseg Glaciers and where guests enjoy traditional Swiss dishes. If the view wasn’t enough to relax you, spend some time at The Kronenhof Spa & Wellness which offers a pool, fitness center and spa rooms which combine into a facility that’s over 21,000 square feet, with floor to ceiling windows offering views of the Alps. There’s also a bio-sauna for women, and an all-gender Finnish sauna. As Switzerland is famous for its chocolate, be sure to stop by Gianotti’s which has been known for the famed chocolate pralines and nut cakes for over 125 years. The family-owned confectionary is convenient across from the Grand Hotel Kronenhof. Aside from its rich environment, Pontresina is one of the most popular hiking regions in the country. People come to enjoy the high mountain hike from Muottas Muragl to Alp Languard while enjoying postcard views of the Upper Engadine lakes and the Piz Bernina. Glaciers are often a universal attraction during the trail hikes, including the third-longest glacier in the Eastern Alps. As you take the red funicular up the Muottas Muragl, take time for lunch or a drink at Scatla restaurant, with its futuristic-looking cube design made from wood and glass, and breathtaking views of the mountain. While in Pontresina, visitors often take the Bernina mountain pass that will lead guests to Northern Italy, or they take Switzerland’s famous Glacier Express—one of the most beautiful railway lines in the world with panoramic windows with views of Swiss Alps JungfrauAletsch and the Rhaetian Railway in the Albula/Bernina Landscapes-- UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
ZERMATT Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, the most photographed mountain in the world. The vacation destination has preserved its original character with a car-free zone and offers nearly unlimited possibilities as far as excursions are concerned. The region is legendary amongst mountaineers with its 38 mountains. For skiers, there are over 223 miles of ski runs, including a crossover that leads you to the Italian ski region of Breuil-Cervinia. Although the lowlands are warm in the summer, there are skiing areas in high mountain regions where the glaciers also make it possible to ski in summer. During all seasons, visitors enjoy 248 miles of hiking trails, 62 miles of bike trails, and both climbing and high-Alpine tours.
organic sauna, multi-sensory shower and a relax area. Also available to guests is an ample local wine selection within the hotel’s wine cellar which focuses offerings on the regional Valaisan wine.
While visiting, stay at the Europe Hotel & Spa which offers alpine-modern architecture with natural materials like wood, stone, and glass. In between your mountain activities, enjoy a drink at the hotel’s bar the Schwarznasenbar which is named and themed after the local blacknosed sheep. The hotel’s spa offers a large Jacuzzi, Finnish sauna, steam bath,
If you’re craving adventure, luxury accommodations, fine cuisine, and knock-your-socks-off mountain views, then Switzerland is certain to fulfill your dreams. Be sure to add it to your bucket list.
Zermatt offers some of the finest shopping along the Bahnhofstrasse from watches and jewelry to chocolatiers and bakeries. Also found along the main strip, you will find the highest concentration of restaurants. For an Alpine-inspired meal, try the fondue at the restaurant Whymper-Stube. The rustic corner spot offers cheese or meat fondue, raclette, or other local specialties from Switzerland. For a Michelin-starred experience, visit Capri in the award-winning Mont Cervin Palace hotel.
For more information on Switzerland, visit myswitzerland.com. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 43
TRAVEL
PRAGUE
A REAL-LIFE FAIRY TALE By Mark Laiosa
ith some of the oldest monuments and towering spires reaching to the heavens, Prague fosters a make-believe wonder like few other cities. The cobblestone squares and gothic architecture make you feel immersed in a classic fairy tale. Visitors also experience centuries-old Czech traditions mixed with modern-day culture, from street musicians playing traditional Czech songs on cobblestone streets to glimpsing couples as they enjoy an evening drink atop Milunic and Gehry’s Dancing House (affectionately known as Fred and Ginger). In 1989 Czechoslovakia experienced the “Velvet Revolution,” a transition from Communism rule to a representative parliamentary system. Then, in 1993 Czech and Slovakia would part ways in a “Velvet Divorce.” Twenty-five years later, Prague remains a gem—not at all touristy, with plenty of attractions and restaurants to see, and is affordable. All great reasons to visit the Czech Republic’s capital.
SIGHTSEEING STYLES You can tour Prague by foot, bike, or hire a chauffeured old-timer car. Maybe even rent a foot peddle boat and explore under the famous Charles Bridge and changing cityscape. The historic center is walkable and has an extensive tram system. (Tip: Purchase your ticket before boarding and validate once on board). • Old Town Prague’s Royal Palace was built on Castle Hill in the 13th century. Over time, new additions signified the growth and wealth of the kingdom, seen in the massive golden mosaic showing the Last Judgement over the portal of St. Vitus Cathedral. Holy relics of St. Wenceslas are housed in a private chapel within the cathedral. Continue on your tour of the city to admire the restored Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square. The mechanical clock is the 15th century equivalent of a Smartwatch. On the hour a statue rings a bell, and a crowing rooster welcomes the Apostles passing by windows. A trumpeter blasts a fanfare from the clock tower to greet the new hour. 44 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
• Old Jewish Quarter (Josefov) Established in the 13th century when Jews were restricted to living within the area, it expanded over time. You’ll notice The Old Town Hall has two clock faces, one with Roman numerals; the one below with Hebrew numbers with hands that move counter-clockwise. The Old New Synagogue is the oldest in Central Europe with a nearby cemetery. The Pinkas Synagogue has an excellent installation containing the names of over seventy-seven thousand Jews killed during the Holocaust lining the walls of the museum. • Music Reigns Music has a special place in the hearts of all Prague’s citizens. Indulge in living history at the Estates Theater, where Mozart conducted the premiere of Don Giovanni in 1787. Little has changed since the opera house was built in 1783 with its detailing of curves and filigree still adorning the theater. You might recognize the interior; it was used in the film Amadeus. The Antonín Dvořák Museum, surrounded by beautiful gardens, contains works of everything pertaining to the composer’s life and work. A collection of his music and correspondence, period photographs and other documentary materials.
Old New Synagogue
• Serenading The Saints The Charles Bridge completed in the 15th century spans the Vistula River and is lined with statues of saints. Today contemporary saints and sinners perform music from historical times to modern beats. • The Arts Known as the creative center for the arts, Prague was the birthplace of writer Franz Kafka. His museum is interactive; the installations capture the atmosphere of his writings. Photos, letters, and sketches give additional insights. Lovers of Art Nouveau will find buildings with floral and straight-line motifs throughout the city. Admirers of Alphonse Mucha will be delighted by the collection of posters, paintings, and photographs of the artist. • Shopping Who doesn’t love to discover unique shops in a foreign city? Prague satisfies that quest. Locals enjoy sharing their crafts with pop-up shops and street markets. Standouts include Hugo Chodi Bos (hugochodibos. cz) which creates traditional Czech toys. And if you’re looking for original hand-embroidered peasant clothing, then Antique Ahasver (ahasver.com) is the place to be. The Saturday Farmer’s Market is where you’ll find vendors selling everything from local cheese, handmade sausage, and other delicious specialties. Relax and enjoy the scene with a cup of coffee and pastry. Later, pick up a bottle of local wine.
TASTY FARE
Alcron Restaurant
Radisson Blue Alcron
Once a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Czechs still consume old-time favorites like goulash, schnitzel, and potato salad. A typical Czech dinner might start with steak tartar served on toast brushed with garlic clove and followed with kulajda, a potato soup with forest mushrooms, dill, vinegar and a poached egg. The main course might include duck confit with sauerkraut and dumplings. And speaking of dumplings the Czechs have a unique main course, seasonal fruit-filled dumplings coated with poppy seeds and sugar, served with melted butter and farmer’s cheese. Of course, many Czech restaurants are creating healthier alternatives and a modern interpretation of Czech favorites. However, some things never change: No meal is complete without a local Staropramen brew. So good is this quality beer it might be the reason why Czechs are the largest beer consumers per capita in the world.
BEST STAY
THE RADISSON BLUE ALCRON Opened in 1932, The Alcron was one of Prague’s first luxury hotels and designed by Maria Vafiadis. A major renovation of the hotel has restored its brilliant Art Deco elegance. The crystal chandeliers sparkle and the dramatic whitemarble staircase is bound to impress. All guest rooms are comfortably furnished with some sweet touches, like the fringed lampshades— which reflect the hotel’s origins. Although there is no spa, the fitness area is a boon to those who work out; it’s one of the best-stocked gyms in the city. The Radisson’s real trump card is the Michelin-starred Alcron restaurant. Stellar food matches sumptuous surroundings. La Rotonde, the other restaurant at the hotel, offers weekend brunch and a casual dinner on the terrace in warmer months. Info: radissonblu.com/ en/hotel-prague. For more information on Prague, visit czechtourism.com. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 45
Global Travel + Tours & EXCURSIONS
“Where Luxury Meets Passion” RJA MEMORIAL MIGHTY MONTAUK TRIATHLON
Come, Join Us!
ounded in 1982 by the late Robert J. Aaron and long considered the east end season opener which would be celebrating its 31st anniversary this year. It features a very scenic course through the beautiful hamlet of Montauk. The race consists of a 1 mile swim, 22 miles bike and 6.2 miles run. This fun event is USAT sanctioned. This course must be completed in 3 hours 55 minutes. SWIM - The distance is 1 mile in the calm salt water of Lake Montauk. The course is out and back. Since this race is in the spring, wet suits are recommended (water temperature is normally around 55 degrees Fahrenheit).
One Day Excursion Swimming with the Pigs
BIKE - The distance is 22 miles taking you along Montauk historical routes; giving you a bird’s eye view of the famous Montauk Lighthouse. The course is out and back with some hills. Hardshell helmets (ANSE approved) and bar end plugs are mandatory. This race adheres to USAT policy of NO DRAFTING.
Spanish Wells or
Major Beneficiaries • Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research • St Therese Youth Group • Phoenix House • East Hampton PBA Harbour Island – Pink Sand Beach • Montauk Ambulance Squad
RUN - The distance is 6.2 miles through the scenic side of Montauk challenging hills. + Optional AdventuresDEVICES Exuma, The NO ELECTRONIC ON THE Bahamas COURSE (ex: iPods, MP3 players etc). No water stops on the bike course. However, Please visitare our for water stops at website one mile intervals on the 242.477.4103 run course. other “Wonder” Excursions! 242.803.4918
alkrallis@gmail.com globaltravelparadiseisland.com
Welcome to Harborside resort montauk
The Harborside Resort Montauk offers a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. On-premise pool and tennis, attractive rooms, studios, suites and efficiencies - each offering many amenities. Montauk is one of the beautiful resort destinations on the East Coast. Miles of breathtaking coastline, nature trails and preserves, varied watersports from famed surfing to water-skiing to whale watching.
World renowned fishing is found here, too as Montauk is well recognized as one of the top fishing capitals of the world. For beach lovers, we provide our guests’ access to Montauk’s finest ocean and sound beaches. And, golfers, bring your clubs and golf at the magnificent Robert Trent Jones designed Montauk Downs State Park located just one mile from the Harborside. You can enjoy the pleasure of
371 West lake dr. montauk, nY 11954 631.668.2511 montaukharborside.com
nearby horseback riding, being pampered at a marinotherapeutic spa, great shopping and a trip to our treasured beacon - the Montauk Point Lighthouse. Sample the gourmet delights of the finest restaurants, just a short walk or drive away. You will never be at a loss of things to do in Montauk - where a great vacation begins!
TRAVEL
ICELAND
4 DAYS IN THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE By Clint Brownfield
opular travel destinations have phases. Currently it seems nearly everyone has just gotten back from, or are in, or are planning a trip to Iceland. We all travel for various reasons, but one common denominator is plain old sightseeing—taking a break to see something new. And that’s what Iceland has in spades—amazing sights! It’s not just a land of landscapes, but one of dreamscapes, everywhere you look—up, down and sideways, year round. Iceland’s the closest European destination to our area, about five hours, and most flights arrive early in the morning the next day. After easily clearing customs/immigration, we met our guide, Garðar Örn Hinriksson, from Prime Tours (primetours.is). This was my first encounter with an Icelandic name and I thought he said his name was Carlos. He cheerfully remained Carlos for the rest of the trip. Then we were off, on our excellent Icelandic Adventure.
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 47
RELAX LIKE A VIKING First, it’s a hearty Icelandic buffet breakfast at Viking World, a beautifully designed museum near the airport devoted to a replica of a typical Viking vessel, which was sailed across the Atlantic in the year 2000 to celebrate Leif Erikson’s arrival to the New World in 1000AD. During our trip we would continue to learn how those Vikings really got around.
Iceland
Not too far off is perhaps Iceland’s most famed attraction—the Blue Lagoon (bluelagoon.com) a great way to iron out some of the kinks after our flight. Enjoy the waters as long as you wish, enjoy a glass of Champagne, and even indulge with a mud mask—so refreshing. Hotel Husafell
BIG CITY CHARM Feeling younger and rejuvenated, we headed into Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital (the southernmost is Wellington, NZ). Iceland has a population of around 340,000 and nearly 66 percent live in or around Reykjavik. It’s big city charms meld with the ambiance you might find in a quaint New England or Atlantic Canada town. Our lunch that day was at the world’s most profitable hot dog stand—Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, a local landmark so famous that even Bill Clinton was once observed wolfing one down. A hot dog and soda for $10 is a true, and delicious bargain. Fortified, we checked into the new and very snazzy Sandhotel (sandhotel.is) one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, located on the city’s main commercial drag, Laugavegur. It’s within easy walking distance to the city’s thriving night scene, restaurants, shopping, cultural attractions and Hallgrímskirkja, the largest church in Iceland. It can be seen from all over the city and its observation deck offers truly spectacular views of the city and harbor below. The hotel’s restaurant is a great way to sample Iceland’s delectable seafood and lamb. Sandholt, the city’s best bakery, is next door. I’m still dreaming of their platesize cinnamon rolls with burnt sugar icing.
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LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN Traveling northwest, it’s a 90-minute dreamscape-laden drive from Reykjavik, via a well-paved four-lane highway. Our destination: Húsafell. On the road you’ll be mesmerized by the vast lava fields, grassy horse-filled meadows, hot springs and crystal clear streams—all surrounded by majestic mountains and some of the largest remaining glaciers in the world are just some of the dazzling sights along the way.
Husafell family chapel
We checked into Hotel Húsafell (hotelhusafell.com) which has rapidly established itself as the place to stay since opening in 2015. The sleek, lodge-like 48-room hotel overlooking an idyllic valley is the hub of the area’s amazing attractions including glacier/snowmobiling adventures, the world’s largest lava cave, famed Icelandic horse farms and Krauma—the new day spa featuring soothing waters from Europe’s largest hot spring (and a spectacular new restaurant). Also nearby is Snorrastofa, a complex where visitors are welcome to learn about Snorri Sturluson (1179–1241) who first translated and wrote down many of the historic Nordic sagas that make Game of Thrones seem like a nursery rhyme. The hotel’s friendly staff can arrange visits to all these attractions and more—like fishing for salmon and trout in nearby streams. During summer they can even book tee times at the local golf course at midnight. After all, this is the Land of the Midnight Sun. And, back at the hotel, there’s just plain old relaxing while sipping a warming drink or soaking in the private hot springs on premises. In winter and early spring, guests can opt to be awakened if the Northern Lights streak across the sky. Members of an extended local family, dating back several hundred years, manage the hotel and will instantly make you feel at home in their slice of heaven. The hotel overlooks a small village where many of them still live, including Páll Guðmundsson, who is perhaps Iceland’s most famous living artist. His magnificent art is prominently displayed throughout the hotel. To visit with the artist (the word genius comes to mind) in his studio and gallery, is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Hotel Húsafell features a bistro and a fine-dining restaurant with commanding views of the glaciers above and the village and streams below. Icelandic delicacies—lamb, seafood and microbrews are highlights. The complimentary breakfast buffet will keep you going for most of the day. Skoal! For more information on Iceland, visit: inspiredbyiceland.com •
Reykjavik
PRIME TOURS Prime Tours (primetours. is) was invaluable during our stay in Reykjavik, its nearby attractions, and environs in the northwest. Icelandair (icelandair. com) also offers guided tours and packages that are great ways for firsttime visitors to explore the country and keep costs down. Striking out on your own in Iceland, especially for first-timers, may not be your best option.
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 49
FEATURES
THROUGH THE LENS Photography By AnnieWatt.com
FRIENDS OF THE BUDAPEST FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA SUMMER KICKOFF PARTY
WOMEN OF VALOR
Heidi Lee-Komaromi, Peter Nadosy, Kati Marton, Andrew Komaromi Andrew Komaromi, Heidi Lee-Komaromi, Peter Thomas Roth, Brian Thomas Roth, Jill Stewart, Kelly Bensimone, Sylvia Hemingway
Jay Lieberman, Penny Lieberman, Budapest Festival Orchestra Musicians
Father Francis Gasparik and Joseph Sano of St. Francis Food Pantries and Shelters; and the 2018 Honorees
Andrea Catsimatidis of Red Apple Group, Margo Catsimatidis
Bill Sclight, Cheri Kaufman, Sylvia Hemingway
Juliet Lublin, Erik Ekstein, Alexis Ekstein, Penny Lieberman, Jay Lieberman
Andrea Catsimatidis and John Catsimatidis, Red Apple Group
Clay Basnight, Kent Basnight, Nick Basnight, Kay Basnight, Tori Basnight
Dr. Mirjana Blokar, Dr. Ted Feder
Stan Herman, Jay Lieberman, Carey Delrose, Campion Platt, Penny Lieberman, Fern Mallis, David Driscoll
50 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Ayda Melo-Taveras, WeWork; Melissa Armenti, Lazard; Sonya Verny, Colliers; Julie May, Gunlocke; Jena Hwang, Morgan Stanley; Cristen Colantoni, HLW
PRO MUSICIS GALA AWARD DINNER
Howard Rubin of Goetz Fitzpatrick; Joseph Sano, Father Michael Marigliano of Holy Cross; Father Francis Gasparik
Michael Day, Emily Nissim, Bonnie O’Callaghan, Kaitlin Kilian
Allen Roberts, Jay Paul, Heidi Roberts, Brianne Goutal-Marteau, Romain Marteau
Ambassador William Vanden Heuvel, Melinda Vanden Heuvel, John E. Haag, Janet Haag
Marguerite Mangin, Franck Laverdin, French Consul General Anne-Claire Legendre, Michel Longchampt, Odile De Schitiere-Longchampt, Ben Aguilar, Claudette Karabey
Michael Lynch, Trace Johnson, Stephanie Jutt, Lou Meisel
Rikki Klieman presenting Andrea Catsimatidis the Guest of Honor award with Father Francis Gasparik, Joseph Sano, Ernie Anastos
Sam Harrison presenting Alyssa Youngerman, of Ralph Lauren, the Macy’s Community Star Award with Father Francis Gasparik and Joe Sano
Ben Aguilar, Jerry Erickson
Naz Rinaldi, Mario Rinaldi
J.Y. Song, Peggy Cai, Miki-Sophia Cloud, Asuka Qin
Solera Quartet
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 51
DAISY SOROS HOSTS THE AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE OXFORD PHILHARMONIC
9TH ANNUAL FREDDIE G FELLOWSHIP
Bill Bernhard, Ann Nitze
Myrna Gershon, Kate McElliot, Freddie Gershon, Melissa Charles Daisy Soros, Maestro Marios Papadopoulos and musicians
Didi Schafer, Oscar Schafer, Norman Benzaquen and Judy Zankel
Lee and CeCe Black
Jesse Johnson, Dr. Lamar Bagley, Marcus Woollen
Maestro Marios Papadopoulos, musicians
Marianne Adams, Cliff Thompson, AnneMarie Pringle
Roddy and April Gow
Tina Barrus, Jenise Coon with the Harry and Meghan poster
Maria Eugenia Haseltine, Horacio Milberg-Uribe Larrea, Teresa Bulgeroni
Daisy Soros, April Gow
52 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
AUTHOR SYLVIE BELJANSKI WINNING THE WAR ON CANCER BOOK PARTY
Karl and Jeanine Gallmeyer, Tim McDonald, Steven Kennedy Roberta Podell, Sylvie Beljanski, Alex Lubarsky, Ann Fonfa
Anne Akers, Erin Dubots, Brian Feinblum, Sarah Atkinson
Dr. Richard Porcelli, Dr. Gerry Curatola
Guests
Katy and Jason Cocovinis
Immy Tariq Myrna and Freddie Gershon
Steve and Jane Tennen
Barbara Carole Sickmen, Ron Sickmen, Dr. Ada Samuelson, James Peck
Dr. Gerry Curatola, Sylvie Beljanski, Dr. Richard Porcelli
Oriela Cuevas, Francoise Vernon
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NYU LANGONE HCH RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY AND RECEPTION 424 EAST 34 STREET
SIP N SHOP FOR THE THREE TOMATOES ROOFTOP GARDEN PARTY
Jonathan LaPook, Ken Langone, Alice Tisch, Susie Block Casdin, Dean Robert I. Grossman Roni Jenkins, Anne Akers, Cheryl Benton, Randie Levine-Miller
Susan Block Casdin, Kinsey Block Casdin, Blase Block Casdin
Stephen and Kelly Mack Cheryl Benton speaks to the guests
Alex Casdin, Kinsey Block Casdin, Blase Block Casdin, Ellen Block, Laurie Block Louise Tisch, Alice Tisch, Maude Tisch, Lacey Tisch Meredith Adler, Cheryl Benton, Margot Tohn, Madeline Klein Phyllis Mailman, Joy Wolf, Alan Hassenfeld
Coutler Manno, Catherine Manno, Laura Manno, Jane Manno
Susan Block Casdin, Robert Perretta, Dean Robert Grossman, Keith Powers, Ken Langone, Matthew Washington, Carlin Rivera
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Meredith Adler
THE POLICE ATHLETIC LEAGUE’S BUSINESS LUNCHEON
John Jr. Catsimatidis, Gavin Hale, Phil Roth, Jon Kostakopoulos
Pamela Morgan, Karen Ashley Speaker of the New York City Council Corey Johnson
Paul Chamlin, Randie Levine Miller, Robin Gerson Wong, Madeline Klein, Cheryl Benton, Rochelle Chamlin
John Catsimatidis
Paul Beirne, Corey Johnson, Peter Kostmayer (former Congressman of Pennsylvania)
Annie Watt, Michael Daly, Jami Landi the PAL Director of Development
Richard Torrenzano, author of the Digital Assassination and John Tsunis
John Catsimatidis, Mark Simone, Margo Catsimatidis, John Jr. Catsimatidis
Tim Rembijas, Charles Sullivan and Dan Ladner
Simona Manenti
Sylvie Beljanski
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. SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 55
FEATURES
TECH TALK SMART HOMES By Ted Owen
fter working long hours at my start-up, PlayAPI, there is nothing better than to head home after a long day. However, this is 2018, and I need my home to have the latest technology integrated into it so that those precious hours of downtime are enjoyed to the max. Here are my life-changing favorites you need for your haven. ACCESSING HOME The August Smart Lock Pro+ Running out to the next social event and need to enable the housekeeper access to do their work? Take control of access to your home on the go using the August Smart Lock Pro+, which turns your cell phone into a key and enables you to grant access for the housecleaning staff, family, friends, and others. Info: august.com.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
FLICK THE SWITCH
Philips Hue Smart Light Bulbs Although there are many competitors, Philips from Europe has been one of the early adopters of Smart Light Bulbs. These LED replacement bulbs work through a Wi-Fi connection allowing them to be switched on and off from anywhere. They also can be programmed to automatically turn on either at a specific time or when your cell phone comes in range of your home Wi-Fi network. New this year, Hue is showcasing their new range of outdoor lights. Remember, if a light bulb is simply too dull, the Philips Hue’s colors can change your light into millions of possibilities. Info: meethue.com.
Ecobee Switch+ Unable to flick the switch due to an injury? Or perhaps you want to conserve energy. The folks at Ecobee have developed a replacement light switch that does it all. The Switch incorporates Alexa, so voice control becomes the way to go, not to mention full access to the knowledge base of the Alexa team. The Switch also has a speaker built in to play music, an integrated night light. What more could you want? Info: ecobee.com.
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COOL OPERATOR
DOING THE LAUNDRY--MADE EASY
Samsung’s Family Hub A smart refrigerator which also keeps food chilled, cold, and frozen. Samsung’s smart refrigerator has a touchscreen built into it which can provide everything from to-do lists, family pictures, television, and apps so that you can order groceries from the fridge itself! Rounding out its amazing features is a camera which enables you to see what’s inside the fridge when out shopping. Info: samsung.com.
GE Connected Washer & Dryer Although you still have to put in the clothes and add the detergent, GE’s new Connected Washer & Dryer handles everything else. Get updates to an app on your smartphone with the status of the wash. You can also change or extend the drying cycle. So, time to end the age-old question “is the wash finished yet?” as you’ll get automatic alerts. Info: geappliances.com.
AVOID COSTLY FLOOD DAMAGE
PINCHING ELECTRICITY
Lyric Wi-Fi Water Leak and Freeze Detector Using batteries to connect to Wi-Fi, a four-foot cable—which acts as a water sensor—the Water Leak and Freeze Detector is laid around likely trouble spots. In the event of a water leak, you will receive a cell phone notification. Simple. Brilliant. Think about it: The average water leak can result in $6,500 worth of damage. An ounce of prevention can save you a lot! Info: yourhome.honeywell.com.
Sense Now it’s possible to see if someone is also using your electricity. With the help of an electrician, Sense plugs into your main fuse box and sits there monitoring and learning how to differentiate between every electrical appliance in your home. Sense helps you to understand where the electricity is being consumed and see the patterns and identify the areas for saving money. It is clearly common sense. Info: sense.com. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 57
Lakefront Beauty!! On Pines Lake!
I Proudly Suppor Friends of Laurelwood A
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
Call today! Offered at $1,499,000 Dramatic, stunning waterfront views of Pines Lake from almost every room. This 4 bedroom home was enovated and rebuilt in 2013. The 2 story soaring ceilings in the Great room with a wet bar, gas fireplace and a wall of windows that enhance the calming water views and also creates the open concept living spaces that todays buyers desire. Vacation all year with boating, swimming and fishing. This is a must see!
II Proudly Support Proudly Support the the Friends of of Laurelwood Arboretum Friends Laurelwood Arboretum
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REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
NOTES FROM DB WELCOME, BUYER’S MARKET! By Daniel J. Bollinger
he Fall season welcomes a new buyer’s market to NYC. There are a lot of interesting things going on in the market today. Re-sellers and new developments are starting to adjust their prices to this new market. Some examples include: The Penthouse at One Brooklyn Bridge Park Originally asking $32 million and is now listed at $18 million, about a 44 percent price cut. It’s still currently the most expensive residence for sale in Brooklyn. Mill Basin There is a home for sale that was originally asking $30 million in 2013 and has been chopped down to $12.5 million at its lowest asking price. That’s more than a 50 percent discount; it is currently off the market. New Developments Many have begun to discount their prices in this market. There is an interesting trend happening in this buyers’ market in the new development segment. Though most new developments are adjusting pricing, there is a “flight to quality” on some units where discounting is not necessary. The best example of this is at 565 Broome Street, where the penthouse of Renzo Piano’s masterpiece fetched the full $40.5 million asking price. There are other examples of this “flight to quality” mostly associated with penthouse units. As I have written in the past the past few months, you’re going to see the new development split into winners and losers (discounters is a better description). This is an excellent time to purchase in NYC. It will only get better as we progress through the Fall and Winter months with the uncertainty of what is happening on Wall Street. The market is trading sideways for 2018 year to date. For July and August it seems to be trending up, but the sentiment on CNBC is not favorable. Everyone is either hinting at or predicting a correction. Foreclosures Foreclosures have recently hit their highest peak since the 2008 financial crisis. Also for the first time in the past seven years we have reached a new record in the number of residences available for sale with fewer transactions taking place. Add to this that more new development inventory is expected to hit the market this Fall and historically more re-sale inventory comes to market as sellers are back from their summer destinations. This is all adding up to becoming a very interesting remainder of 2018.
PRICING
In Barbara Corcoran’s 8 Killer Real Estate Tips from Barbara Corcoran she states, “If your house has been on the market for more than four months, take it off the market and re-list it in two months as ‘new.’” To expand on her statement: If a house has not sold in four months, it has been improperly priced. In this tight market, a lot of agents in essence “buy” exclusive listings by convincing a seller that they can fetch a ridiculous price. You can see this by looking at all listings that have been sitting on the market for over three months on any website. If a residence is properly priced you should start receiving offers at the first open house. If you have not received an offer in the first month, the residence isn’t priced properly. Real estate is a cyclical market, prices go up, and prices go down. In the past few years the NYC real estate market has gone haywire. But reality is starting to set into the market. Overdevelopment and overzealous pricing is catching up to NYC. It had to come eventually—which is why the remainder of 2018 is going to be a great buying opportunity for anyone in the market for a home. I would strongly urge one hire a buyers’ agent to help you with the transaction. A buyers’ agent is one of the few people in a real estate transaction with fiduciary duty to the buyer (not the seller). Get your ducks in a row; get a pre-approval from a bank, make a list of your wants and needs in a home, and interview a number of buyer agents before you pick one. As I have been saying for months, NYC is possibly the safest city to invest in real estate in terms of hedging against inflation and as a safehaven for value retention. The market is shaping up for people to get the best value on their investments. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 59
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
252 EAST 57TH STREET PENTHOUSE PERFECTION By Daniel J. Bollinger
ocated on Billionaire’s Row is an incredible penthouse at 252 East 57th Street. Skidmore, Owings, & Merrill (SOM) LLP, co-developers World Wide Group and Rose Associates, and interior architect Daniel Romualdez have combined to give us a well-designed penthouse. And because it’s the only penthouse it occupies the entire top floor. This team has produced a magnificently designed penthouse with the right amount of luxury. THE RESIDENCES This 8,139-square-foot penthouse has six bedrooms, seven baths, 12’ 9” ceilings, and views from every corner. The area is so large that it is flexible; you have room to customize according to your style and wishes. In addition to a gas fireplace, there are two deep balconies with white oak floors, one off the living room, the second off the main bedroom. Most of the bedrooms have curved walls. These curves remove the square box feel of many condos making the space unique. All bedrooms feature en suite baths; the master bedroom has two. Five of the seven baths are windowed. The master bath, custom-designed by Daniel Romualdez, features a beautiful wet room with two granite seating options, a significant niche factor, and a rain shower head with steam. Even the bathrooms have high ceilings. There is a great contrast of black and white. There are white Nano Glass walls and floors, especially against the side grain wood walnut vanity cabinets. The secondary baths deserve mention with white ceramic tile walls and a marble mosaic accent wall. Robern medicine cabinets are standard, and there is a nice shelf across the vanity. The tub is a 6’ bathtub designed by Romualdez. 60 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
The kitchen features a full Miele package with the most up-to-date appliances including a steam oven and micro-convection oven. The custom Eggersman kitchen, designed by Romualdez, features horizontal grain walnut wood integrated cabinets. The quartz counters and backsplashes, Dornbracht fixtures, and a Kohler Series sink complete the picture. There is a spacious breakfast nook built into the island and also a spacious wine refrigerator. Entertaining is easy thanks to a catering kitchen behind the formal kitchen with another full Miele package.
AMENITIES You will find a host of the most luxurious amenities including a private lounge, library, dining room, sky lounge, billiards room, theater, and fitness facilities all located on three floors exclusively reserved for owners. The stand-out amenity is parking. 252 East 57th features a gated interior Porte Cochere with New York City’s most substantial residents-only automated parking garage and has electric car charging stations. Not just parking but the most advanced car park in New York City. A state of the art parking facility automatically parks your car for you. The car park is inside the building so whatever the weather you (and your car) will be protected from the elements as you come and go. There is even a waiting room for you while the automated machine retrieves your vehicle. The building has two lobbies, one inner lobby and one outer, both manned twenty-four hours a day.
RECAP The penthouse at 252 East 57th Street is impressive. Smartly designed this is a good model for other developers to take notes on. The location is superb on Billionaire’s Row, plenty of natural light, spectacular views, and all the amenities you could wish for. For more information on 252 East 57th Street, contact Pamela D’Arc of Stribling & Associates (212-369-5757) or email info@252e57.com for a viewing. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 61
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
THE LINDLEY
SENSIBLE DESIGN IN MURRAY HILL By Daniel J. Bollinger
ocated in Murray Hill, The Lindley is comprised of 74 studio-to three-bedroom residences. This 20-floor building is brought to us by CBSK Ironstate with Rawlings Architects and Design Within Reach. The units are well-laid out with no wasted space and there are very nice mixtures of textures and design choices within the residences. INTERIORS
Open kitchen, dining, and living rooms are featured in all units utilizing a variety of materials. In the kitchens there are integrated cabinets on the Wolf and Sub Zero appliances with white frosted glass upper cabinets. There is a nice contrast with quartz backsplashes and counters. It is a nice multiple contrast of colors and textures. Except for studios, kitchen units have breakfast bars and wine fridges. Residents will find ample pantry space, a deep stainless steel sinks and Grohe fixtures.
AMENITIES
The Lindley has plenty of amenities including a 24hour door attendant and a live-in super. There is also a fitness center with Techno gym equipment and resident lounge located on the second floor. Bike storage is available and a laundry room with industrial washer/dr yers (Bosch washer/dryer comes standard in all units). The best amenity is a large rooftop lounge with grilling and dining area and incredible skyline views.
The baths continue with this mixed textured design. All studios have showers; one bedrooms have either a shower or a tub; while two bedrooms have a shower in the master bath and tubs in the secondary bath. Calcutta marble tiled walls and encased tubs contrast the Terrazzo gray floors. A nice design detail are the large custom medicine cabinets, with a great ledge below with cove lighting. There are nice niches and rain The Lindley is a sensibly shower heads are standard. des ig ne d bui lding w it h incredible interiors. It is a The well-designed residences are all smart-wired and welcome addition to Murray feature pocket doors to make the greatest use of space. Hill. The property offers a 421a Built-out closets are standard, and with large windows tax abatement. for plenty of light and views. The windows exceed standard R-value codes. Seven units have private For more information on The outdoor terraces including two penthouses. Lindley, visit thelindley.com. • 62 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Palatial Masterpiece
30 Minutes from Manhattan SADDLE RIVER, NJ
$18,900,000
Spectacular palatial estate custom built for the original owner on approximately 4 lush acres. Banquet dining, massive great room, multi-suite kitchen, solarium, award winning Theo Kalomirakis theater and wine tasting/cellar, huge master bedroom suite, boutique-style closet, indoor and outdoor pools, 7-car garage, 10 fireplaces, security and generator. Highly sought after location! Every Home is Special to Us.
OFFICE
VICKI GAILY, REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®
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MARKETING DIRECTOR
201 934-7111 • CELL 201 390-5880 • VGAILY@SPECIALPROPERTIES.COM • SPECIALPROPERTIES.COM FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK: @SPECIALPROPERTIESNJ Information deemed reliable but subject to errors and omissions.
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
AROUND TOWN TRIBECA By TJ Johnson
he tiny wedge-shaped territory known as Tribeca (the abbreviated description of Triangle Below Canal Street, it includes the area bounded by Lafayette Street, the Hudson River, and Chambers and Houston Streets. Tribeca retains much of the bohemian quality that characterized the entire complex of cast-iron architecture between Chambers and Houston Streets before it went upscale. Because this neighborhood overlaps the City Hall area, with its enormous daytime working population, it has been more successful in resisting the tide of fad enterprise. Small businesses still enliven its streets. In fact, you might think little has changed since the 1930s. Art and commerce have, of course, transformed Tribeca, but they have not overwhelmed it. With easy access to Chinatown and Lower Manhattan it remains a unique, artistic New York neighborhood. One of the priciest neighborhoods in Manhattan, Tribeca has loft buildings converted into beautiful condos with breathtaking views and easy access to the Hudson River. It is also home to the coveted Tribeca Film Festival. This amazing neighborhood that many celebrities call home has everything you need to live the posh life in New York City, including charming restaurants lining the streets. 64 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Tribeca
A PLACE TO CALL YOUR OWN If converted lofts are not your taste, perhaps new construction with all the amenities is the type of living you want in NYC. Well, you are in luck, because new construction is booming in Tribeca! Here are just a few of some notable new developments in the area:
Jay Street
Let’s start with 111 Murray Street, the new 800-foot tower consists of one-tofive bedroom apartments with absolutely mind-blowing amenities. Besides the pools, private dry bars, and state-of-theart fitness center, 111 Murray offers a concierge jet service. Yes, let that sink in. If this seems like the place you want to call home, I would hurry because it’s 70 percent sold. Condos range from $2 million up to $40 million for the penthouses. If you’d rather have something on a smaller scale, there’s a beautiful building located at 15 Jay Street. This building is being converted into 5 luxury condos designed by the Meshberg Group with a price tag starting at $4 million. Then there’s the stunning 70 Vestry Street with its breathtaking views of the Hudson and designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects. The 14-story building comprises 46 apartments—and going fast. Move here, and count Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady as neighbors. There are still a few apartments left (5 to be exact) starting at $7.9 million. If these apartments seem out of your range or not your style, there are still plenty of amazing co-ops and condos for sale throughout Tribeca ranging from $865,000 for a studio, $995,000 for a one bedroom, and $1.7 million for a two bedroom. The Changing Face of Murray Street
FINE FARE While you’re looking for your new apartment in Tribeca, don’t forget to stop in and eat at some of the amazing restaurant offerings. At the top of the list is Racines— New York’s version of the beloved wine bar in Paris. Nobu Tribeca is always the place to eat and make your taste buds happy. Another must try would be Locanda Verde. One of the big celebrity hangouts with some of the most amazing tasting food! You will not be disappointed, and maybe you’ll be spot regulars like Robert De Niro. If you just want to unwind at a regular bar and have a burger, then look no further than a place called Tribeca Tavern located 247 West Broadway. I’ve been going there for over 20 years. Great bar. Great service. Great food. There’s a little glimpse into Tribeca. There’s so much more to show in this neighborhood. My team and I are here for all your buying and selling needs. I would be happy take you around Tribeca and perhaps stop into Tribeca Tavern have drink and discuss your goals. For more information on TJ Johnson, visit him at bhusa. com/real-estate-agent/thelonious-tj-johnson. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 65
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
40 BLEECKER A RARE NOHO BEAUTY By Daniel J. Bollinger
onveniently located on the corner of Bleecker and Mulberry Streets in NoHo, 40 Bleecker is a 12-story ground-up new development brought to us by Broad Street Development. Consisting of sixty-one units from one to five bedrooms including six penthouses the units have great layouts, beautiful design details, and some of the rarest amenities offered in today’s market. Rawlings Architects and Ryan Korban have teamed up to offer us a magnificent façade and interiors which takes cues from its BeauxArts neighbors: A custom blend of elongated Norman buff colored bricks, and custom aluminum windows in a Champagne finish with metallic bronze bands. As well, the curved windows and bricks on the corners of the building are a beautiful design detail. The interiors are very well designed with details galore. Penthouse Master Bath
66 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
INTERIORS The interiors are gorgeous featuring many subtle design details. In the kitchen look for the honed statuary marble hood above the range. This hood is a work of art in itself with the marble pieces cut so that the veins are book-matched. The same marble is used for the single slab backsplashes and counters. There are two kitchen layouts: one layout having a cantilevered island and the other having a waterfall island with breakfast bar. Both kitchens are very balanced and have a warm ambiance with integrated cabinets of beautiful Italian cerused oak. Two cabinets on opposite sides of the vent have fluted bronze colored glass panels with SA Baxter burnished nickel pulls. A full Miele package is standard with Lefroy Brooks fixtures. There is a large pantry, and the kitchen in whole has lots of storage space.
The master baths are equally elegant as the kitchens with many subtle design details as well. The walls have Grigio Dove marble on the bottom half of the walls with cerused oak veneer paneling on the top. A subtle design detail is the gap on the lower portion of the marble which visually creates the floor molding. The marble encased tub has a significant niche factor, and another excellent design detail is the niches are lit with cove lighting; rare in today’s market. The wet room has a rain shower head with another niche. Custom medicine cabinets are standard, and Lefroy Brooks fixtures with Kohler his and her sinks combine to create a very warm balanced master bath. All the units have open layouts with excellent design detail. For example, living room ceilings have a modern stepped trim molding to detail the overhead lighting. Most of the units have views facing Mulberry and Bleecker Streets with great Village views. Three units have terraces. The penthouses all have ample outdoor terraces, all en suite bathrooms, and at least two exposures (some have three). With 40 Bleecker being one of the highest buildings in NoHo, one has the best views of the surrounding area.
Pool Master Bed
AMENITIES 40 Bleecker has all the standard amenities one would expect in a luxury new development in today’s market: 24-hour door attendant, live-in residential manager, bike storage, a fitness center with yoga room, and a 5,600 square-foot sculpture garden with private seating groupings designed by AD100 Edmund Hollander Landscape Architects. It also has two of the rarest most sought after amenities in NYC: Deeded Parking, and a 58’ lap pool. Great planning on the developers’ and architects’ to include parking in this development.
RECAP This is a significant new development. Located in a great area of the city with little room for further development, NoHo, it is rare to find opportunities like this. Being one of the tallest buildings in this area, it is difficult to beat the views 40 Bleecker has to offer. The interiors are beautifully designed with two of the rarest amenities most new developments provide. In this softening market with competition growing daily 40 Bleecker will stay competitive in this market, especially at the competitive price points being offered. For more information on 40 Bleecker, visit 40bleecker.com. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 67
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
ROSS-HAND MANSION
HISTORIC HOME IN ROCKLAND COUNTY By Lyle Seltzer
elcome to the Ross-Hand Mansion. For a fraction of the price of a penthouse, you can own one of the most admired homes in the Hudson River Valley. Perfectly situated at the top of 4 private, manicured acres with commanding views of the Hudson River and the Village of South Nyack below. This 5700 sf Gothic Revival mansion was built for famed architect Azariah Ross, who designed the stone bridges that can be seen throughout Central Park and the stone retaining walls surrounding the U S Military Academy at West Point. After Ross, the property was acquired by Mary and William H. Hand. Much of the detailed woodwork in the home was added by Hand, known for his intricate woodwork in the mansions in Newport, RI. He was an entrepreneur, savvy businessman and a master builder, building many of the grand homes along Park Avenue in NYC. He helped build Castle Rock aka Osborn’s Castle, in Garrison, NY – one of the most recognizable man-made landmarks in the Hudson Valley. He also rebuilt Lord’s Castle in Piermont and built many mansions for the coal barons in Scranton, Pa. 68 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Their grandson, also named William Henry Hand was Thomas Edison’s assistant and worked alongside Edison at the home. What was once Hand’s and Edison’s workshop is now a fully outfitted home gym. The Ross-Hand Mansion was originally built as a summer home, the front-to-back living room features two of the original fireplaces, which allowed the Hands to enjoy the home well into the colder months. Over the years, 5 more fireplaces were added and the home became their primary residence. Of special note is the Carrera marble Italian fireplace that is the focal point of the library. According to William Hand’s grandson, Hand purchased the fireplace from the estate of A.T. Stewart, who was the founder of the first department store in the country and lived in a white marble mansion on Fifth Avenue in New York. Installed in 1890, it was one of the few Italian fireplace designs in the country and its uniqueness was noted by The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The marble used was purportedly made from marble that Michelangelo used. Grand rooms and elegant details combine beautifully with the thoughtful updates making for warm and comfortable modern living. The stunning new riverview master bedroom suite features a fireplace, multiple closets and a magnificent bath with radiant heat. A brand new guest suite with a private bath was recently added as well. There is a private au pair suite and two additional bedrooms and bath on the second floor, making for a total of 5 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms on this level. The kitchen features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the front and back lawns, as well as an exposed brick wall, center work island, two Sub-Zero refrigerators, two dishwashers and a beverage/wine refrigerator. A few of the other features you can enjoy include magnificent chandeliers, seven fireplaces, a full walk-up attic, a working greenhouse, wraparound veranda and a barn with garages and professional-quality gym. The mansion is located only 17 miles north of the GWB and 2 miles west of the Tappan Zee Bridge, with easy access to major roadways and public transportation makes commuting into NYC a breeze. The once in a lifetime opportunity to own this iconic residence is now a realty with the home listed on the market for $1,852,000. Info: thehandmansion.com. Interested parties should contact Donna Cox, Associate Broker, Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty in Nyack, NY with any questions and to arrange property viewings. Phone: 845-641-8613, e-mail: donna.cox@randrealty.com. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 69
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
SOUTH BEACH MEETS LONG BRANCH THE LAUNCH OF NJ’S NEWEST LUXURY DEVELOPMENT By Debbie Dickinson
iane Von Furstenberg’s DVF SoHo Boutique and Mimi & Edwin Feliciano were honored to present South Beach At Long Branch, a Miami vision for the Jersey Shore. Mimi Feliciano, her son Cary and Sales Executive Aida Lorenzo of FEM South Beach Urban Renewal showcased the first look in New York City of the luxury condominium residences inspired by South Beach which will redefine the landscape in Long Branch, New Jersey. “My family and I vacationed in South Beach where the lifestyle was so care-free and luxurious…it was incredible. We quickly realized there was nothing like it on the Jersey Shore so after considerable thought and work, we decided to bring our Miami vision to the Jersey Shore,” said Mimi Feliciano. Currently under construction, the project will cater to the sophisticated high end buyer. The development will present 47 maintenance free lifestyle homes with two to four bedrooms, ranging from 1,595 to 3,453 square feet on 1.7 oceanfront acres. Ultimately, South Beach at Long Branch will provide a luxury living experience to include a private dining club and elevators opening directly into your designer residence, four luxurious appointed guest suites for your family and friends to enjoy plus floor-to-ceiling glass with panoramic ocean shoreline views. Home prices will start at $1.5 million with completion slated for late summer 2019. When asked what motivated Mrs. Feliciano in business she responded, “During the last five years after graduation, both of my sons came to work for our company. They have grown so much, each in different areas of the business. It is inspiring and heart-warming to see such family excitement, company team work and dedication towards growing and developing our FEM brand and contributing to the community.”, says Mrs. Feliciano. This event benefits the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship established by Mimi & Edwin Feliciano at Montclair State University. DVF offered their latest designer fashion collection highlighting artist Evan Sebastian Lagache and his Solstice art exhibition and donating 10 percent of sales to benefit, honoring women in business. Guests were served Champagne and dined on vegan appetizers by a team of DVF’s staff. Guests included such A-listers as Anthony Haden-Guest; Carlos Gerardo Izzo (Mexico’s Counsel General) and wife, Tea Izzo; Dorothy Fernandez; David Hochberg; George Wayne; Julie Zhang; Nole Marin, Aaron Bond; and Dr. Kevin & Louise Basralian. For more information on South Beach at Long Branch, visit southbeachatlongbranch.com. •
ABOUT THE DEVELOPERS FEM South Beach Urban Renewal, LLC brings its vision, innovation, experience and leadership to developing, owning and managing commercial and residential real estate across the United States. FEM brings forty years of proven experience to every project with passion, true expertise and unique vision which drives its continued success. Founders Mimi and Edwin Feliciano are dedicated philanthropists. FEM is committed and engaged in community leadership where it supports many charities and civic causes. At Montclair State University, FEM has established the Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship and the Feliciano School of Business building is named in the founder’s honor. For more information on FEM, contact E.D. Enterprises Marketing & Public Relations at edentpr@gmail.com (917-622-8136).
70 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
LUXURIOUS NAVIGABLE WATERFRONT
LUXURY AT IT’S FINEST!
1416 MOSS CREEK DR. JACKSONVILLE, FL 32225 Magnificent 11,600 Sq. Ft. Estate Home located in a Gated Golf and Waterfront Community. Community has a private fresh water lock system. Just minutes to the Intercoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean directly from the backyard. Outstanding architectural detail throughout this Eco Block constructed home. PREVIOUS SYMPHONY SHOWHOME! Amenities: 10 Seat Home Theater Upper Level Gameroom Mirrored Gym In-Ground Pool with Spacious Lanai Dock & Boat Lift
The Home: 7 En Suite Bedrooms 2-Story Living and Family Room Great Views Gourmet Chefs Kitchen Summer Kitchen Upper and Lower Level Wet Bars His and Her Libraries Separate Guest Apartment 4 Car Garage & 1 Small Storage Garage Large Tackle/Craft Room
SHARON MILLS, LUXURY REALTOR, GRI 4500 HODGES BLVD. JACKSONILLE, FL 32224
$1,850,000 MLS#: 951646
DIRECT: 904-534-6087 FAX: 904-339-9090 WWW.SHARONMILLSTEAM.COM
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE DECLUTTER YOUR HOME—AND LIFE By Jane Stoller
uch of my practical organizing experience comes from living in small apartments and having to adapt to small spaces. I have lived in sixteen different apartments in eight different cities across two continents. Because I move a lot, I’m continually having to addon, update, and modify my closet and storage spaces. But it’s not all bad, because this experience has given me some valuable insight into how to use space effectively, and find new and creative ways to make almost any closet situation work. As more and more people move to cities and face smaller living quarters, we’re increasingly challenged to do more with less. When living in a small space, being organized becomes a central part of any quest to be successful, have time for meaningful relationships, and maintain a healthy, beautiful body and mind.
IMPROVE LIFE You may think I’m exaggerating, but getting and staying organized will improve every aspect of your life, and smaller spaces leave less room for organizational errors. And I don’t just mean re-organizing what you already have (I’m all about organizing), but having a beautiful system of color-coded boxes with things inside you’ll never use is also a waste of space. Getting started is usually the hardest part. But before we organize our stuff, we have to evaluate it. The first step to becoming organized is decluttering. Take a look around you. Many people believe that a lack of space is the reason they’re not organized, so they get a bigger space. However, space alone can’t save you; your behavior also has to change. When people lose sight of how much stuff they have, this can even lead to hoarding. I’m sure you’ve heard this before, and I know you think it’s easier said than done, but decluttering your space can help make you less stressed, and more productive. To begin decluttering, you need to make some hard decisions about what items are practical and emotional necessities, and what’s just plain trash. Everyone’s definition of what is clutter and junk will differ; there are no set rules about what items fall into what category. 72 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
DOES IT FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE? My organizing mantra: The most important thing is that the items you keep need to fit your lifestyle. If they don’t they’re better off somewhere else. Start small and give yourself a goal for each room or part of your life. Some decluttering gurus suggest tackling categories instead of rooms. For example, starting with all of your clothing, or all of your books. Regardless of where you start, if clutter surrounds you, whether it’s in a work area or a leisure area, then stress will always be lingering. If the items you are eliminating do not fall into the trash category, then I highly recommend donating them to a local thrift store, selling them online or a local consignment store. Now let’s talk about your closet space, which is hard to come by in New York! We are always surrounded by sales/outlets/Black Friday sales etc., which makes it harder for everyone to maintain a streamlined closet. When I go to an outlet mall, for example, I suddenly become convinced that I need two of everything because it all seems like such a good deal. In fact, many of the clothes I buy at outlet malls I never end up wearing; I only bought them because the discount seduced me. Therefore, I try to stick to this advice: “If you do not use it or need it, it’s clutter, and it needs to go.” I am also in love with apps that help me know what I have in my closet even when I am not standing in front of it. Knowing what you have and understanding your style is especially important in New York, a fashion-forward city with the newest trends and most upto-date fashion available at your fingertips. Creating a curated closet of items you love to wear, vs. a quick fashion trend that gets piled in the back of the closet will help manage clutter. The Curated Closet by Anuschka Rees is a great book that offers a step-by-step guide to determine your style and ensuring your clothes represent that.
PART OF EVERYDAY Ultimately, incorporating organization into your life shouldn’t involve changing who you are, but instead maximizing it. Knowing where your favorite socks are, and having them stored correctly, means you’ll be able to wear your favorite socks more often and look better doing it. Similarly, packing correctly for a once-in-a-lifetime trip means you’ll be able to enjoy that trip even more. Remember, being organized means that you don’t have to think about organizing all the time—because you do it automatically, as an organic part of your everyday routine. And you can only reach this level of organizing bliss by making sure your organizing systems and routines are perfectly adapted to your goals, personality, and needs. Again: organizing is a lifestyle, but it needs to be your lifestyle. To start, I would set aside time daily to organize, even if it’s just ten minutes at the beginning or end of your day. If you do this, you’ll instantly feel like you’ve achieved something. And, yes, if you continue to make organizing a daily goal, it will become a priority. Soon you’ll be organizing naturally. SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 73
ORGANIZING APPS Here, some of my favorite apps and must-have products that help me stay organized in the home and office. Closet+ The Swiss Army knife of all style assistants, it helps you know exactly what is in your closet. Especially great if you have more than one closet location (ie: storage lockers or another home/ closet). Info: closetapp.com. Snupps Collect, organize and share. I use this app for cosmetics but it can be used for a variety of organizing needs. Info: snupps.com. My Purse Cache This is an all-in-one organizer. A bonus is that all the data can be downloaded to an Excel spreadsheet which includes value, brand, material, purchase date, etc. Info: mypursecache.com. Hubspot Free CRM download that keeps emails and contacts organized. Info: hubspot.com. Neat Organize your business. This genius app will allow you to scan and send documentation to your accounting software. Info: neat.com.
REFLECT YOUR PRIORITIES
It is my passion to help not only transform spaces with being organized but also lives. Unlike most organizing advice focusing on either organizing “things” or “processes,” I believe that if you start your day choosing clothes from a laser-focused closet, you’re well on your way. No one’s home or office needs to look magazine perfect. But these spaces should reflect that person’s priorities—the life they want. And lastly, whether you’re single or part of a large family, whether you live in an apartment or a mansion, you need to embrace the wonders of labeling. For New Yorker’s it is even more important to incorporate these organizing basics with small spaces and busy lifestyle’s. I talk about all of these techniques and more in my book, Organizing For Your Lifestyle, which provides organizing inspiration rather than a prescription, which hopefully inspires you to get and stay more organized. For more information on Jane Stoller, visit organizingforyourlifestyle.com. • 74 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
REAL ESTATE & HOME DECOR
SPOTLIGHT SELMAN YALCIN By Daniel J. Bollinger
EDinNYC is a networking event series dedicated to connecting, supporting and promoting individuals and businesses involved in real estate projects in New York City, Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, and Philadelphia. The brainchild of Selman Yalcin he has been hosting events at the Dream Hotel in the Meatpacking district in NYC. I had a chance to sit down with Selman. What does REDinNYC stand for? It’s an acronym for Real Estate Development in New York City.
What is the purpose of REDinNYC? It’s a chance for top-tier real estate professionals to gather and network centered explicitly around new development construction in NYC. How has it been going? Fantastic. Every month we are experiencing more substantial and massive crowds, and we have recently expanded into other cities including Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles, Boston, and Philadelphia. What can one expect at your events? Expect to start brokering deals and building relationships. Event goers share contacts, ideas, experiences, and expertise in their respective fields. Nearly 35 percent of attendees hold C-Suite level positions in real estate and 10 percent are directors and Vice-Presidents. Besides networking with all the essential people directly in the new development and luxury segments, we also feature a ‘fireside chat’ every event with a prominent keynote from a real estate legend. What is the fireside chat? It’s a chance for the developer to give an overview of his development(s) and give our guests some details about the project that you won’t find on any website. We also have a Q&A during this time for any guest to ask questions. Tell us some of your keynotes speakers? We’ve had so many but to name just a few: Michael Stern of JDS, Don Peebles, Joe McMillan of DDG, David Amirian, and there are many more, too many to list here. Who should attend your events? Anyone in the real estate community including salespersons, brokers, investors, landowners, contractors, architects, lawyers, insurance executives, projects engineers; anyone involved in the real estate industry on any and every level. Does REDinNYC do anything else? REDinNYC also partners on family office conferences and other events, including OPAL, IMN, Bisnow, RBC Wealth Management and more. For more information on REDinNYC, visit redinnyc.com. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 75
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MONEY MATTERS
CADILLAC CT6 STEERING INTO THE FUTURE By Jenny Peters
t takes a real leap of faith the first time you let go of the steering wheel of a car and make it drive itself, even if it is a Cadillac, one of America’s enduring automobile brands. That luxury marque from General Motors first produced a car in 1902; these days, they are still on the cutting edge of the future and are still assembling their cars in Detroit. Along with Tesla and Volvo (whose self-driving vehicles have been famously involved in fatal crashes), Cadillac and other auto manufacturers are dedicated to finding ways to make your driving experience safer, less stressful and more relaxed on both your mind and your body. With Cadillac’s Super Cruise technology, “the world’s first true hands-free driver assistance feature for the freeway” (according to the company), which was introduced on their 2017 CTS sedan, the company leaps into the forefront of driving technology. We tested it out on the luxurious 2018 Cadillac CT6, the 3-liter, V6 twin turbo version, which even without Super Cruise is an incredibly easy to drive and comfortable car. It helps that the soft leather seats have numerous adjustments to get them just right, add heat or ventilation if you’d like, and will then also give you an excellent back massage (with different pressure points and settings) any time you want it. Our CT6 also has a sunroof, back-seat entertainment system, and enough trunk space for a serious road trip.
MERRILY DOWN THE ROAD
Good thing, since we drove north from Los Angeles to the spectacular Lassen Volcanic National Park, over 1,000 miles in the CT6. Rolling through the center of California on I-5 is a perfect place to try out the Super Cruise, as that self-driving feature only works on limited access, divided freeways with no cross streets, which is precisely what much of that long road is. First, we hit the cruise control, still holding the wheel but with foot off the gas pedal, and noticed that it automatically slowed down when we approached another car. That was pretty cool, but nothing compared with adding the Super Cruise to the cruise control. Centering the CT6 in the lane, we touched the steering wheel button, and the car took over completely, as we took that big leap of faith and let go. Letting out a cheer of “Look, Ma! No hands and no feet and I’m driving!” we gawked as the car went merrily down the freeway all on its own. It’s a giddy experience—and a welcome one when you use it six hours into an eight-hour drive. The car monitors you and makes sure you are paying attention to the road at all times, but you can stretch your limbs and shake out the cobwebs while zooming down the freeway, which is a bit mind-blowing. The system works so well (a green-lit bar on the steering wheel tells you when to let go, a red light tells you to take control) that Cadillac recently announced that Super Cruise would be available on all its models as of 2020. Which makes us wonder, is a robot-driven car that far in the future? For more information on Cadillac CT6 and Super Cruise, visit cadillac.com. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 77
HEALTH & WELLNESS
HIGH-TECH INJURIES EASY WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR BODY By Gerrie Summers
odern day technology, especially those convenient Smartphones, and tablets, has made our lives more comfortable and efficient. But, like everything, it comes at a price. And the price, unfortunately, is more than just paying $600 for a phone! With all of this modern technology comes increased incidences of carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by repetitive stress injuries to the wrists and hands. The continuous use of these devices without enough respites, has also created even more repetitive stress injuries like “tech neck,” “texting thumb,” and “trigger thumb.” Yes, those are real conditions. Tech neck causes upper back, lower back and shoulder pain from slouching over the laptop or Smartphone. Just look away from your computer for a moment to think about it. The human head can weigh anywhere between 5 to 10 pounds. Imagine how much stress just the act of leaning forward for several minutes puts on your neck, causing headaches, pinched nerves, and other problems. Counter this with bad posture and you will often experience a misaligned spine and upper back pain. That’s just the beginning. In addition, being hunched over using Smartphones to read emails, check social media and read/send texts, not only strains the neck, it causes overuse of the thumb (texting thumb or trigger thumb)— inflammation, discomfort and cramping of the thumb, which often causes pain in the lower part of the hand. 78 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Enrique Ramirez
TAKE A BREAK Enrique Ramirez, founder and lead esthetician at Face to Face Spa, sees clients come in with computer- and tech-related issues. “I’ve seen many,” Ramirez confirms, “but the most common is carpal tunnel syndrome repetitive movement and bad hand positioning.” These issues have made the Rubbing Express, a 30-minute Swedish massage to target knots or specific areas of the body, particularly popular. Requests to focus on the neck, shoulders, wrists, and hands, often come from those individuals whose jobs have them arched over the computer, using repetitive hand motions at the keyboard for hours on end. Carpal tunnel syndrome is often first noticed by tingling, numbness and sometimes pain due to the improper positioning of the wrist while typing on a keyboard. This causes pressure on the hand’s tunnel-like median nerve. Sometimes the pain or numbness runs from the hand up the arm. And like most of us, taking a break is not on the top of the list. But it’s necessary. Even for a few moments, it’s important to stretch the hands. “I also see neck and shoulder pain from long days at work hunched over the computer,” adds Ramirez. Bending the neck to look at the computer screen can strain the muscles along the backside of the neck. Improper seated positions or even using the wrong workplace chair can lead to lower back pain. Eventually, curvature of the spine will set in placing pressure on other parts of the body only to cause arthritis, muscular deformities, bone spurs, and nerve damage.
POSTURE PERFECT Mom was right when she told us to sit up straight. Also be sure to take breaks to avoid chronic pain from repetitive movements, as well as to prevent eye strain. Remember ears need to be lined up with your shoulders. “When folks get tired they tend to forget about posture, which then strains a lot of their back muscles.” Enrique suggests that clients ask that therapists target one specific area, for better results. “When clients come in for the Rubbing Express massage, I ask their troublesome areas to focus on those muscles to ease tightness and stress. For people with carpal tunnel, I do Reflexology on each hand to stretch tiny hand muscles and rearrange bone structure with manipulation to free the nerve that’s pinched. Often I use paraffin to soften hands and melt tight hand muscles.” And for those on their feet all day the Reflexology Treatment combines acupressure points and foot massage techniques to help relax the feet, thereby bringing the body into complete balance. Face to Face NYC Spa
Face to Face NYC Spa
MORE PERKS FOR NYers Getting a quick massage or other relaxing treatment, also does a lot to reduce stress and anxiety from work. Mental stress is not as evident as nerve pain in the wrist or lower back pain and tight shoulders. Studies have shown that massage can reduce the stress hormone cortisol and improve immune system function. In fact, a 30-minute massage once a week has been known to reduce stress, as well as improve brain function to help you think more clearly. You can get back to work refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to brainstorm. Couple a massage with a menu of other treatments available. The NY Minute Treatment was specifically designed for “today’s busy person” and combines mini-microdermabrasion with an oxygen mist to rejuvenate and brighten a tired, dull and lifeless face, which can be brought on by a polluted city environment, stress, and a lack of proper rest. And for those tired eyes spent in front of the computer the Rejuvenating Eye Treatment will decongest and reduce puffiness in no time. With hectic schedules, many employees skip the lunch hour altogether, but as the concern for a more healthy (and therefore productive) work staff increases, more people (and bosses) are seeing the benefits of scheduling massage therapy and other treatments during lunch breaks. As Enrique told us, “That’s how we keep hard-working New Yorkers more productive!” For more information on Face to Face NYC, visit facetofacenyc.com. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 79
HEALTH & WELLNESS
IN PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS 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. If you were to ask any number of friends and colleagues what is it that can make them happy, the answer would be different for each. Why? Because the emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual needs are unique for everyone. The purpose of this article is to direct you to a simple yet more realistic way to personal happiness. Try to remember three words: love, joy and peace. These familiar words maintain the essence of human life, a universal need for both men and women. Throughout my psychological training, emotional human needs have become my quest. In counseling unhappy people—some of whom were even surrounded by material wealth—it was evident that they have had neither true love, no real joy, nor inner peace in their lives.
THE NEED FOR COMPASSION
THERE’S A DIFFERENCE
To relieve clients with symptoms of anxiety, boredom, depression, a sense of emptiness or unresolved internal conflicts, I have come to realize that most people who seek my help need compassion, care, understanding and guidance to explore and deal with the troublesome areas. Whatever anxieties, obstacles, or conflicts they are facing, or traumatic events that have occurred in earlier years and currently affect their present behavior, they all need some perspective to find resolution. However, invariably the more profound need in their hearts is the desire for a happier, more rewarding, and peaceful life.
Sometimes our efforts to be happy result in disappointment, because most of us have difficulty understanding the difference between happiness and joy. As we learn to love, feel real joy, gain inner peace and clarity of mind, we notice that happiness is a state of being, created by favorable external components—whatever is available to make our living conditions pleasant and pleasurable. Joy and peace, however, are inner feelings, a result of our perceptions of what we hear, see, and touch, and of how we face the realities of life and of how we design our personal lives.
The underlying goal of any therapy is to live a better life. In essence, it is a search for peace, joy, and happiness. The pursuit of happiness is universal to all humans. No one wants to suffer, and most people employ intellect and feelings, mind and heart, to avoid it, even if knowing on a deeper level that avoidance is not always possible. Like joy, pain is an inevitable part of life. At times, reasonably coping with pain can provide relief, new choices, and can sometimes open a different direction in life. Although many people have similar yearnings, the approach to a happier and more creative life is different for each person. In their search for happiness, they also desire peace. All of us wish to experience that more profound feeling of joy and the reassurance that we are appreciated and loved. Both men and women need inner peace, joy, and happiness. Regardless of how content we may feel, we still want to improve our current living conditions and make our life more wholesome and fulfilling. All of us want to be comfortable, secure, and happy, but how each of us perceives happiness differs dramatically. 80 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
In months to come, I will provide you with practical and realistic tools for a happier life. Undoubtedly there will always be suffering in this world. Our bad choices cause much of it, and some of it is caused by sudden uninvited catastrophes that occur in nature. The good news is that we can relieve suffering and bring a ray of hope to ourselves, to our afflicted brothers and sisters. If you want to feel better, do something good for another person. In doing so, you will experience an inner joy that would last you for a long time. And, yes, it may seem like a drop in the ocean, but it is the many drops that make that ocean. •
HEALTH & WELLNESS
DR. ROBERT SCHWARCZ CUTS WITH A KNIFE… LOOKS SO RIGHT By Bailey Beckett
azz at Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle. Croque Monsieur at Bergdorf’s BG Restaurant. A massage in Cornelia Spa at The Surrey. Private shopping at Barneys. Sacred experiences to Upper East Siders, all. But there’s one indulgence everyone is whispering about: Dr. Robert Schwarcz, one of the top cosmetic surgeons in New York. His waiting room is a virtual who’s who of the UES, from socialites to starlets. Better known as The Eye Whisperer, he has also generated a national profile for his work on eyelids, as well as those pesky bags that sit under them. Whether surgery or silk fillers, his work speaks for itself, giving his patients a younger, fresher visage.
LIFT ME UP
AN ACTIVE SPIRIT
“I’m known for the eyes, but I do a lot more,” says Schwarcz. “Online I’m known as NaturalFaceDr in social media because I like to think I’ve become known for exactly that. I pride myself on subtlety—achieving the desired result but one that appears natural. You don’t want to look like you’ve had surgery, but do it right and people will notice a difference— positively so. Well-rested. Fresh. Rejuvenated. All good adjectives to hear.”
At 46, he keeps his youthful spirit with daily meditation, a Whole Foods plant-based diet, outdoor sports and regularly trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His appearance belies his experience. The native New Yorker is one of only 500 surgeons in the U.S. to be admitted to the American Society of Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, and he is a board-certified Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon as well as Diplomate of both the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Ophthalmology.
As one top New York-based model described: “I heard about Dr. Rob from a friend.” She admitted that she has to be tops in her business—aging is a “dirty” word. “You need to look young to get the big bookings. I started slowly with Dr. Rob using fillers, and it’s been effective. He’s outstanding.” Botox, Restylane, Juvederm, Sculptra are some of the weapons Schwarcz uses in place of surgery (he’s especially keen on Restylane’s Lyft and Defyne). “Fillers aren’t permanent, but they work. They help with wrinkles, crow’s feet, sunken cheeks and bags under the eyes,” Schwarcz says. “It depends on the patient, but it’s a good alternative. They’re less invasive.” Schwarcz has a clientele that includes every age group of men and women. “Age is universal; it doesn’t discriminate,” he says. His specialty is eye-lid blepharoplasty. “It’s a good way to reverse signs of aging. When skin and muscles around the eye begin to sag, your eyes will droop. Loose excess skin, puffiness, and bags under the lower eyelids make you look tired even when you’re not.” Dr. Robert Schwarcz
A graduate of City University of New York’s seven-year combined BS/MD program, Schwarcz also received a degree in Washington, D.C. followed by a two-year highly specialized surgical fellowship at UCLA Medical Center’s Jules Stein Eye Institute. Then it was a two-year fellowship in Beverly Hills, where he focused on the face and neck lifts, rhinoplasty, fat transfer, liposuction, laser resurfacing and chemical peeling. He returned to New York to establish his own practice with offices off Park Avenue in the 70s as well as Scarsdale. He recently joined a small group of surgeons who travel to Shanghai several times a year to perform eyelid surgery. “I’m intrigued by the differences in aesthetics between the two markets,” he says.
LOOKING GOOD Schwarcz also does corrective surgery for previous procedures. “I do get patients who aren’t happy with a particular treatment,” he says. “People react in different ways, and you can’t always predict how a surgery is going to settle. I wouldn’t say it’s often, but it happens.” Ask Sam Moore whose previous neck lift resulted in “pixie ears”—his lobes appearing as if they were glued to his face. “I’ve been conscious of it for a long time,” says Moore. “Overall, the lift was perfect—it gave me a neck and jawline, but the ears always bothered me. When I saw Dr. Schwarcz for fillers, he looked at me and said, ‘I can fix your ears, too.’ I was so happy to hear that and replied, “I didn’t know you could.” Happy indeed! He had the procedure taped by a social media expert and posted on Instagram. More than two thousand people have watched the video. “That was new,” says Schwarcz, who is uncharacteristically modest for a surgeon of his caliber. “Most patients won’t talk about a cosmetic procedure under any circumstances. It’s not something you want to advertise, let alone have a film crew record in the operating room!” For more information on Dr. Robert Schwarcz, visit naturalfacedr.com. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 81
FOOD & DRINK
NYC’S HISTORIC RESTAURANTS
A LOOK AT 6 BLASTS FROM THE PAST By Natasha Bazika
ipe smoke, underground rooms and U.S. Presidents—all part of New York’s historic restaurant scene. From age-old delicatessens to vintage tables older than the Statue of Liberty, the city is full of great establishments, where notable figures rendezvoused to hide (if only for a few hours) or discussed business and indulged in pleasures that came in the form of liquor, clay pipes, and noteworthy mutton chops. Take a bite out of history with these classic restaurants of yesterday still open for business today. DELMONICO’S STEAK HOUSE This restaurant predates the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park and is complete with a long list of firsts, including the first restaurant to admit female diners, and first to allow women to convene as a group. Delmonico’s opened its doors in Manhattan’s Financial District in 1837 and is said to be the birthplace of American classics, which is delectably evident in the Delmonico steak. Before it was a prominent fine-dining restaurant, the lot on the corner of William and Beaver Streets was a small pastry shop, which grew to be the country’s first dining establishment to take on the French designation “restaurant.” Diners will find the illustrious entranceway, and Pompeian pillars inviting to the goldenage when dinner was more than a meal—it was an event. Of course, the ornate chandeliers, scarlet banquets, mahogany wood accents, and oil paintings further convince you of the opulent decade, but it’s the menu that delights. Culinary expectations are forever changing. But at Delmonico’s, traditional techniques are combined with modern influences to serve up a plate of classic flavors with a modern look—it’s refreshing. It won over Lincoln and Kennedy. I can’t see why you wouldn’t love a visit to this classic NYC restaurant. Info: delmonicos.com. 82 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
KEENS STEAKHOUSE
Standing in the shadow of the Empire State building is a restaurant that embodies the spirit and flavor of turn-of-the-century New York. What started as part of Lambs Club (a famous theater and literary group founded in London) prior to 1885, is now the only survivor of the Herald Square Theater District. Keens survived the landmark slaughter, and we’re glad it did, because this restaurant not only offers the best mutton chop, it also preserves the days of yore. Actors would shuffle through the rear door, in costume, to fortify themselves between acts at the neighboring Garrick Theater. Playwrights, publishers, producers and newspaper men would be spotted in the Pipe Room. Keens was a place, for locals and regulars, and those who weren’t but would soon become. To the elite, it was a club. J.P. Morgan, Stanford White, Albert Einstein, Roosevelt, Ruth; all names of men in the Pipe Club register—a lifetime membership sealed with a signature. When the men die, their pipe rests in honored places above tables or in the glass case above the fireplace, where diners look on to get a glimpse of a name. The real treasure is behind doors—four to be exact. The private rooms pay homage to the names that inspired, including Roosevelt for the Bullmoose Room, The Lincoln Room (not hard to guess), Langtry Room (Lillie Langtry) and Lambs Room, with photographs of the Shakespearean actors who formed the original Lambs Club in London. A visit to Keens is like a visit to a museum—except here you can eat and talk, and get up close to the memories. As for the menu, it reads much like a steakhouse, porter, sirloin— what more could you want? Info: keens.com.
KATZ’S DELICATESSEN In 1888, a small deli by the name of Iceland Brothers was established on Ludlow Street in New York’s Lower East Side. Then, in 1903, with the arrival of Willy Katz and the newly immigrated families, it moved across the street to where it stands today. On Friday’s the neighborhood turned out to enjoy a tradition—franks and beans. From then on, Katz’s Deli became an icon among the residents, even adopting the slogan “Send a salami to your boy in the army,” after a family tradition of sending food to their sons serving in the armed forces. Following the peak of Yiddish Theater, the restaurant was filled with actors, singers, and comedians, which is evident with the photos that line the walls. Although many owners have come and gone, Katz’s Delicatessen remains a favorite, with visitors lining up to wrap their hands around a delectable sandwich. Info: katzsdelicatessen.com. SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 83
21 CLUB Have you passed that parade of jockeys in Midtown and always wondered what they were guarding? Well, the statues gifted by customers—past and present, welcome visitors to a once glamorous speakeasy turned famous restaurant, known as 21 Club. This is a place to see and be seen with a heaping serving of attentive service, excellent American cuisine, and an award-winning wine list, the historic building, has become an intrinsic part of the fabric of New York City. The early days were like most Prohibition bars; secret drinking dens, false stairways, and hidden vaults to store a collection of wines—they even had secret chutes to dispose of empty bottles. University students Jack Kriendler and Charlie Berns opened the doors to the club on New Year’s Eve 1929, at the site where it stands today. Actors, writers, presidents, and other high-profile patrons have frequented. Hemingway, Dali, DiMaggio, and Gleason are among the names. Artworks were acquired during the Great Depression when customers had difficulty paying their bar tabs, which included a Remington, as well as sculptures and paintings estimated to be worth two million. The club today is spread over three converted townhouses and four floors, including a cellar. Guests are offered classic and contemporary American cuisine, and will find vivid murals lining the walls. Although the club has long dispelled the sense it is a member’s club and has made the restaurant more approachable, it still requires a formal dress, with men required to wear jackets. But in an iconic place like this, you will want to rock your best frock! Info: 21club.com.
FRAUNCES TAVERN RESTAURANT AND BAR Dine in what is believed to be Manhattan’s oldest surviving building, making it one of New York City’s cherished historical sites. Fraunces Tavern was a residence, built in 1719 for merchant Stephan Delancey and his family before Samuel Fraunces purchased the building and turned it into one of the most popular taverns in the city. It is most known as the site where Washington gave his farewell address in 1783 to the officers of the Continental Army. It has also become the home of great food and beer for many locals. Indulge in classic American fare, including New York Strip, Porterhouse and over 140 craft beers. Don’t forget to stop by the museum inside, which houses a collection of items that preserve and interpret the history of the American Revolution. Info: frauncestavern.com.
GRAND CENTRAL OYSTER BAR AND RESTAURANT In 1913, the Grand Central Oyster Bar and Restaurant opened its doors on the lower level of Grand Central terminal, introducing a new watering hole for artists and writers, following New York’s emerging literary and arts scene. The restaurant was not without its fails; due to lack of clientele and decline in long-haul travel, the establishment went bankrupt and was empty for two years, before its resurrection as a seafood destination. Today Grand Central Oyster Bar and Restaurant enthralls visitors with old-world charm, high vaulted ceiling, the architectural grandness of a golden-age, an ode to the most excellent oysters—spanning five pages long. Other than oysters, the restaurant boasts an impressive menu from smokehouse favorites to stews and pan roasts, including lobster stew as well as an extensive wine list, to satiate any palate. Info: oysterbarny.com. • 84 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
FOOD & DRINK
WOODPECKER BY DAVID BURKE
WOOD-FIRED OVENS, CRICKET PIZZA, AND MORE By Anne Raso
avid Burke is a legend in the New York restaurant business and even had a stint on Iron Chef. Since 1992, he has opened nearly 20 modern American eateries - all with great success. His latest eatery, Woodpecker By David Burke (which has been open only a few short months) serves pizza with crickets in its crust and is wildly popular. It has, as you might expect, a whole lot of wood. Guests genuinely love it and it’s not meant as a gimmick. Woodpecker has custom wood-burning ovens and everything except for the ceiling, TV screens, and dishes are made from wood. Speaking of dishes, the presentations are a bit quirky: Burke’s trademark thick home-cured bacon is served with clothespins hanging from a line. His creative pizzas come straight from the oven resting on red paint cans. The portions are generous and it’s quite easy share a large artichoke and mushroom pizza—and be totally satisfied.
THE PULSE OF THE CITY How did the affable Chef Burke decide to open a restaurant in NoMad. He reveals, “Opening in NoMad was a great opportunity because it is such an exciting time in this area with all the new hotels and condo developments. It’s really becoming the pulse of NYC. There is a mix of people and I have found them to be welcoming neighbors. There is also the corporate clientele during the week. It brings me great joy to open a fun neighborhood-style place that is comfortable and approachable while giving the foodies their crickets!” 86 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
While Burke is proud to call Woodpecker New American—and he realizes that it is the type of cuisine that he does best—guests can’t help but notice that there are some other touches slipped into the mix. “Yes, the menu features some Southern Italian and Mediterranean influences which make it a bit different then my other restaurants,” reveals the master chef and restaurateur.
WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN One would assume that the name Woodpecker was chosen because Burke and crew have wood fire-roasted pizza, salmon and chicken on the menu. He clarifies, “The name was inspired by the wood-fired ovens, of course. Wood-fired cooking adds great flavor and brings cooking back to a time well before having all the fancy ovens and gadgets of today.” As expected, any David Burke restaurant will include red meat on its many menus. Woodpecker doesn’t disappoint with its most popular menu choices, Pork Prime Rib with Casino Style Oysters and Himalayan Salt-Aged Strip Steak. Are there healthconscious choices we asked? “Those watching their health can’t go wrong with Broccoli Mops. It’s a play on chips and guacamole but in place of chips, we use ice-cold crisp broccoli pared with guacamole-shaved fennel, citrus, and radish. It’s fantastic. Of course, for even more healthy, head to Sea Bright, NJ and my Drifthouse Bar & Grill which serves up plenty of seafood.” What new items will be added to the Woodpecker menu for Fall? Chef Burke remarks, “With the Fall menu you will see some more slower cooked items like bison short ribs, wood fire baked pasta dishes and some game meats as the hunting season comes around.” Woodpecker has a casual ambiance thanks to basic dark wood booths without cushions and a giant screen behind the bar that often has the latest sports game roaring. Chef Burke is often on hand in his street clothes, wandering around and greeting diners. Service is friendly and accommodating without any intimidating factors—it’s even kid-friendly. The wait staff will suggest dishes that you might like based on a few simple questions about personal tastes. Desserts are American classics with Euro influences creeping in—a great example being the large Red Velvet Sundae that is topped with soft French patisserie-style meringues and a homemade assorted berry sauce.
Lobster Calzone
Clay Pigeon
It goes without saying that Chef Burke made a tremendous influence on the restaurant scene with his long list of accomplishments as a chef and restaurant owner. But ask him his what he’s most proud of and he’ll say, “My children, my family that supports me in all my efforts and who made me the chef and restaurateur that I am today.” For more information on Woodpecker by David Burke, visit woodpeckerbydb.com. • Watermelon Salad
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 87
FOOD & DRINK
JOHN LEGEND’S LVE WINE SOMETHING TO SING ABOUT By Jenny Peters
hen singer, musician, Emmy-nominated actor, film producer, and Academy Award-winning composer John Legend sets his mind to something, it usually comes to fruition. So when he got the idea to develop his line of fine wines, he looked for the perfect partner—and found him in Jean-Charles Boisset, the French vintner whose vast wine empire spans, as Boisset tells us, “26 wineries on two continents—Napa, Sonoma and, obviously, Burgundy, where my family began making wine in 1961.”
THE PERFECT FIT The two men met through a mutual acquaintance, and their simpatico was immediate, perhaps because each saw something of themselves in the other. “JeanCharles is charismatic, he’s energetic, he’s got a flair—a certain je ne sais quoi!” laughs John Legend, who is wearing a pink suit. We were chatting at the Beverly Hills launch of the duo’s Legend Vineyard Exclusive (LVE) 2017 Rosé Provence, the fourth wine to release from the label and a beautifully balanced wine, bursting with strawberry notes. “Once we started talking and hanging out in Napa, it seemed a perfect fit.” As the equally sharp-dressed Boisset tells it, he waited a long time to join forces with a celebrity. “You know how it is, a lot of celebrities call us to ask for collaborations,” he says. “CAA, all the talent agencies, they call and say, ‘Would you be interested in making wine with XYZ?’ And 99.9 percent of the time we have said, ‘No.’ So finally, with John Legend, we have said, ‘Yes!’ Because I became friends with John, I listened to his music, we blended wine at our Raymond Winery, and he was just so cool. He DELICATE YET POWERFUL BLENDS was so passionate about it.” The pair, along with Legend’s wife, model and actress Chrissy Teigen, launched LVE in 2015, sourcing their grapes mostly from Napa’s Raymond Vineyards, which Boisset owns. With each wine released in the collection, ranging from the luscious and buttery Chardonnay to the rich “Red Blend” made with Petite Sirah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot and the award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Legend takes a very active role in creating each elegant quaff. “I wanted all the wines to be a reflection of my own life, of the kinds of wines that I drink, serve at my house, serve to my friends and be proud of it. Everything we’ve done has been what I love to drink myself,” Legend explains. “I’m very involved in the blending of our wines—it’s so much fun! Their team is so good, they wouldn’t let me make a bad wine, but I felt like it would be great for me to get involved and make it reflect my taste and sensibility.” And if the LVE wines taste a bit like the music Legend is famous for, that’s all part of his plan. “I’ve always felt like the mood of my music goes with wines. I think they pair well together,” John Legend says with a grin. Jean-Charles Boisset agrees that the taste and quality of the LVE wines go far and beyond a simple celebrity vanity project (and so do we). “They are delicate wines, romantic, but with power,” he muses. “It’s a beautiful style of wine.” For more information on LVE Wines, visit lvewines.com. • 88 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON STAGE
Ellyn Marie Marsh, Eric Anderson, Orfeh and Renee Marino in PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL ©Matthew Murphy
ROMANCE COMES TO BROADWAY TWO NEW MUSICALS PREMIERE By Lori Simmons Zelenko
PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL The Nederlander Theatre Julia Roberts and Richard Gere opened the ‘90s with this movie. I don’t remember how many times I saw it but probably a thousand times more than once. There was and is everything to love about this modern fairy tale with a happily-ever-after ending. Now the story of a gorgeous prostitute who’s just a small town girl at heart and an icy millionaire who’s long lost his soul is a musical. The score is by Grammy Award winner Bryan Adams. Keeping it authentic, the show sticks closely to the film’s storyline, it’s written by the screenwriter for Pretty Woman, J.F. Lawton, and Garry Marshall (the film’s late director). The radiant Samantha Barks (Eponine in the film of Les Misérables) is Vivian Ward, the role that made Julia Roberts a superstar. The moment Barks smiles she lights up the stage with a presence that we can’t help but immediately fall in love with, though it takes Edward (Andy Karl) a little while longer to realize he’s smitten. In this #MeToo era the show is a throwback, but harsh realities never burden a good love story. Edward and Vivian are a perfect match actually, both determined to stay detached, sure love will never capture them, ready to escape without revealing their inner selves. But love does work in mysterious ways and the walls they’ve carefully built start to crumble as their emotional connection evolves. Edward is a takeover artist, ripping companies apart, mindless of the damage to the people who created them; he stays removed from himself, shielded from emotion. Vivian too has perfected the survival skill (necessary in her line of work) of standing outside of herself, keeping it all just business. 90 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Andy Karl, Samantha Barks and Company in PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL ©Matthew Murphy
The score does have something of a ‘90s sound, and Samantha Barks makes power ballads her own quite beautifully, her spunky, fresh personality and bold, rich voice make Vivian easy to fall in love with—not only for Edward but for us all. The songs are all new, composed for the show (no recycled Bryan Adams hits here!) and serve as a graceful narrative revealing the unfolding romance. Cracking wise, Tony Award nominee Orfeh (Legally Blond) entertains as Kit DeLuca; her swagger is appealing here as it creates a fun contrast to Vivian whose roots may be in the trailer park but whose future is at The Beverly Wilshire. Wry and wise, Eric Anderson is Mr. Thompson, the Hector Elizondo role in the film of the put-upon hotel manager who eventually falls under Vivian’s spell. He plays a dual role in the musical bringing the hope and passion of this city of dreams, a trip down Hollywood Boulevard, home to all as Happy Man, Jason Danieley (The Full Monty) as Philip Stuckey and Kingsley Leggs (Sister Act) as James Morse round out the cast with characterizations that though very much their own do hold true to the beloved film. There is such vast emotion attached to this favorite movie that it does take gumption to create a Broadway musical adaptation but no worries, the show is as fun and upbeat as the film, so you’ll leave smiling as broadly as Samantha Barks does as Vivian, discovering joy in an unexpected but exhilarating romance. Tony Award-winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, Hedwig and The Angry Inch, Legally Blond) directs and choreographs this Cinderella story with sets by David Rockwell (Hairspray, She Loves Me) and yes, the iconic costumes including Vivian’s red dress are gorgeously brought back by Gregg Barnes (Legally Blond, Kinky Boots, Mean Girls).
HEAD OVER HEELS The Hudson Theatre An Elizabethan love story turned on its head, featuring the music of The Go-Go’s that is Head Over Heels. The Broadway show is paradoxical in its contrast of pop-flavored punk-edged rock tunes with a winsome fairy tale. The story is set in the kingdom of Arcadia where the “beat” is divine. But every fairy tale has a wrinkle, in this case, an oracle’s prophecy of doom is a looming threat to the “beat” driving the king and his royal family through a journey of mistaken identities, jealous lovers, secret rendezvouses and sexual awakening—where everything (and everyone) is not what it seems. Be prepared for an unpredictable ensemble shaking up the Renaissance in this comical game-changer. The early ‘80s pop-rock sound of the Go-Go’s rules in this musical comedy with favorite tunes from the day: “We Got the Beat,” “Vacation” and “Our Lips Are Sealed,” as well as “Mad About You” and “Heaven is a Place on Earth,” two of Belinda Carlisle’s solo hits. Head Over Heels is, according to the Go-Go’s (the most successful female rock band ever) “a celebration of love in all its forms, joyful, fun and full of heart.” The songs, once upon a time, made you want to jump up and dance and so they do again in a wacky but wonderful framework of this musical fantasy.
HEAD OVER HEELS ©Joan Marcus
HEAD OVER HEELS ©Joan Marcus
HEAD OVER HEELS ©Joan Marcus
The show’s creative team has rocked Broadway before with Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Next To Normal, American Idiot, Spring Awakening and Avenue Q, Tony Award-winning Michael Mayer directs. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 91
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE BIG SCREEN By Jenny Peters
FEMALE STARS RULE SEPTEMBER A SIMPLE FAVOR Not yet rated Blake Lively, Anna Kendrick, Jean Smart and Linda Cardellini are the feminine forces behind this twisted small-town thriller that centers on a mysterious disappearance. Murder, mayhem and a mommy blogger collide as this dark story unfolds. Based on Darcey Bell’s novel, A Simple Favor, this whodunit is directed by Paul Feig, who’s best known for his femalecentric comedies (Bridesmaids, The Heat, Spy, Ghostbusters). He sticks with women but drops the laughs in this deadly serious crime drama. BEL CANTO Not yet rated Oscar winner Julianne Moore stars in this twisted tale of a world-renowned opera singer who takes a gig that’s too good to be true. Agreeing to a lucrative private concert for a Japanese industrialist (played by Ken Watanabe) in an unnamed South American country, she finds herself in the midst of a terrorist attack that threatens the lives of everyone taken hostage. As the tense situation escalates, her beautiful voice is the only thing that unites captors and captives. Renee Fleming provides the operatic high notes in this thriller based on Ann Patchett’s awardwinning novel. COLETTE Not yet rated Two-time Academy Award nominee Keira Knightley stars as famed French writer Colette in this biopic. The film explores her early days under the thumb of her husband—who put his name on her first four novels, which took Paris by storm in the early 1900s—to her later triumphs as she broke from him and claimed her place as one of the greatest writers of the early 20th century. Colette’s life was one of female empowerment, creativeness and sexual awakening, which makes for a ripping good yarn in the 21st century. LIZZIE Rated R Oscar nominee Chloe Sevigny (Boys Don’t Cry) and Twilight favorite Kristen Stewart team up to bring the world another take on Lizzie Borden, the real-life Massachusetts woman who was accused of killing her father and stepmother with an ax in 1892. It’s a tale that’s often been told since she was acquitted of the murders, but this one adds psychological twists and sexual overtones as the duo play Lizzie and her maid Bridget Sullivan, who was also a suspect in the killings. 92 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
NIGHT SCHOOL Rated PG-13 Hot, hot, hot comic star Tiffany Haddish joins forces with Kevin Hart in this wild comedy that pits her (a teacher) against him, a wiseass adult forced to go back to night school to try to get his high-school equivalency in order to get the job of his dreams. Sparks fly between the two and the rest of the class, which features Rob Riggle, Brooke Butler and Romany Malco. Penned by Hart and directed by Malcolm D. Lee of Girls Trip fame, Night School is sure to have its share of raunchy scenes, despite that PG-13 rating. PEPPERMINT Rated R Jennifer Garner returns to her action roots (remember Alias and Daredevil?) with Peppermint, a violent revenge thriller. She’s a wife and mother who discovers, upon waking from a coma, that members of a drug cartel have murdered her husband and daughter. When the justice system fails her, she methodically transforms herself into a killing machine, with just one goal in mind: to take down those who took her family away from her. Needless to say, this one’s got a violent streak a mile wide. THE CHILDREN ACT Rated R Two-time Oscar winner Emma Thompson returns to the big screen with a tour de force performance as a British High Court judge, whose deliberations in the case of a teenage boy’s health and life have reverberations within her own life and across the nation. The film is a compelling look at religious belief versus the law of the land, with emotional and personal reverberations that go deep. Based on the novel by Ian McEwan (who also wrote the script) and costarring Stanley Tucci, The Children Act is a compelling story that will make you consider your own beliefs as the story unfolds. THE HOUSE WITH A CLOCK IN ITS WALLS Rated PG Six-time Academy Award nominee and two-time winner Cate Blanchett joins funnyman Jack Black in this exciting adventure about a warlock, his magical house, his young nephew and the mysterious woman who lives next door. This fantastic flick has everything kids who love magical tales could hope for, as the house comes alive and the supernatural thrills multiply. Based on the novel by John Bellairs, this one has movie franchise written all over it! • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 93
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
ON THE SMALL SCREEN By Jenny Peters
REBOOTS, REMAKES AND SPINOFFS FBI CBS Going back to the mine of stories from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, uber-producer Dick Wolf (Law and Order, Chicago Fire and all their spinoffs) brings a new version of FBI to the small screen this fall on CBS. Fans of classic TV remember The F.B.I., which ran from 1965 to 1974 on ABC; that one used real cases from the U.S. government crime-fighting organization. The new FBI is set in NYC and looks to be fictional, with stars Jeremy Sisto, Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki out to protect America from domestic crimes. MAGNUM P.I. CBS In this remake of the much-loved 1980s detective series set in Hawaii, TC is still black and Rick is still white, but Magnum is now a Latino (Jay Hernandez) and Higgins is a woman. Will the new Magnum P.I. be able to fill the big shoes of Tom Selleck, Roger E. Mosley, Larry Manetti and John Hillerman? We’re feeling pretty skeptical but if just for the gorgeous Hawaiian settings, we’re willing to give it a chance. At least Thomas still has his Ferrari and Higgins still has two Dobermans! MAYANS M.C. F/X Fans of Sons of Anarchy have been waiting for this sequel since that show ended in 2014; now creator Kurt Sutter is ready to bring an all-new cast to this tale of a young ex-con Latino who joins Mayans M.C. That’s the motorcycle club that is also in the bad business that the Sons of Anarchy club specialized in, so expect lots of mayhem on bikes in this show that takes up four years after Sons concluded. MURPHY BROWN CBS Following the success of the Will and Grace and Roseanne show reboots featuring the original casts comes Murphy Brown, the classic comedy starring Candice Bergen. And what better time to bring back TV news reporter Murphy and the rest of her cohorts (Faith Ford, Grant Shaud and Joe Regalbuto return in their original roles) than now, when cries of “Fake News” ring across America? Led once again by genius series creator Diane English, this one is must-see TV in our book. 94 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
THE GOOD COP Netflix This one had us sold immediately when Andy Breckman’s name came up as the creator of this remake of Hashoter Hatov, the Israeli TV comedy. Breckman’s the mind behind Monk, so we’re all in for The Good Cop, his new detective show that stars Tony Danza as a discredited NYC cop. The joke comes since he lives with his son (Josh Groban), a straight arrow NYPD police officer. Bad cop, good cop, anyone?
BIG STARS, SMALL SCREEN KIDDING Showtime Jim Carrey comes back to the small screen almost 20 years since he leapt from In Living Color into A-list stardom in the movies in 2001. With Kidding, Carrey plays a Mister Rogerslike TV host, whose young fans are legion and loving. But as his personal life begins to disintegrate, his grip on reality does too. Good thing he’s got his puppet friends to help him cope—or is it? MANIAC Netflix Oscar winner Emma Stone joins two-time nominee Jonah Hill in this freaky, slightly dystopian story of two misfits who join a drug test study, with decidedly strange results. From the mind of Emmy Award-winning True Detective producer-director Cary Joji Fukunaga, this one’s designed to give you nightmares. Watch for two-time Academy Award winner Sally Field in this creepy, funny ten-episode thriller, too. THE FIRST Hulu Except for a cameo or two over the years, twotime Oscar winning actor Sean Penn has never done television. All that changes with The First, as Penn joins House of Cards creator Beau Willimon in his sci-fi vision of the first manned mission to Mars. Others taking flight in this sure-to-be-interesting series are Natasha McElhone, LisaGay Hamilton, Rey Lucas and Oded Fehr. • SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 95
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
NYC HAPPENINGS UNDER-THE-RADAR MUSEUMS By Clint Brownfield
ew York City is the capital of the world chiefly due to its incredible diversity, and this is reflected in the city’s museums—there is something for everyone. It would take 4-to-5 years to visit all 220 museums if you went to one museum each week. By that time, there would be even more to explore. Here, we begin a series that will highlight some of the more off-the-beatenpath museums in our five boroughs that are worth seeking out. NEW YORK CITY FIRE MUSEUM This inviting crowd pleaser announces itself visually as you travel along Spring Street just west of SoHo. Fittingly, the New York City Fire Museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 1904 firehouse, former quarters of FDNY Engine Company No. 30. Just inside the front door guests are greeted by a friendly staffer. And, if you are a shopaholic, you will notice one of the most beguiling gift shops in the city. It’s not fair to call this a small museum. Any museum in the city is smaller than such ‘big box’ institutions as The Met, MoMA, The Brooklyn Museum, and the American Museum of Natural History. Here, the main exhibition areas comprise several thousand square feet, spread out over two floors of the building. Displays illustrate the evolution of firefighting from the bucket brigades of Peter Stuyvesant’s New Amsterdam through the colorful history of volunteer fighters to modern firefighting techniques and equipment. The museum also houses a unique memorial to the 343 members of the FDNY who lost their lives on 9/11 and features many firefighting artifacts recovered from the World Trade Center site. A video room and a mock apartment with an artificial smoke machine and black-lighted fire hazards are great ways for kids to learn about fire safety at home. 96 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
New York City Fire Museum
Visitors can enjoy the museum via self-guided tours or take advantage of knowledgeable onsite volunteers—many of whom are retired firefighters. Standouts in the collection are some fancy vintage carriages that would be suitable for royalty to ride off into the sunset after being married. These exquisite vehicles were used mainly for parades and ceremonial occasions. The museum’s third floor is an excellent venue for weddings, special events and birthday parties for young children. For more information on the New York City Fire Museum, visit nycfiremuseum.org.
MUSEUM OF CHINESE IN AMERICA
Exterior of the Museum of Chinese in America
At this gem of a museum, visitors will be entering one of Maya Lin’s few projects in New York City. Lin, as you may know, also designed the Vietnam War Memorial in Washington, D.C. While still an undergraduate at Yale, at age 21, her design was chosen out of 1,421 entries in the public competition. The memorial, one of the most influential of the 20th century, was completed and dedicated one year later—in 1982. Lin’s design for the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is but one of the many reasons why you should seek out the museum. MOCA is located just a couple of blocks north of Canal Street on Centre Street. Although most New Yorkers have enjoyed trips to Chinatown for its great food and shopping, there are still some unaware of the rich history of this area. Did you know it’s become the largest enclave of Chinese people in the Western Hemisphere with an immigration that began in the mid-1800s? MOCA, through its permanent collections and special exhibitions, shows and tells us how this happened over 160 years throughout North America. Founded in 1980, MOCA moved from its former quarters in Chinatown’s PS 23 building on Mott Street to its present Maya Lin-designed location in 2009. The former structure is still used for special exhibitions and to store items not on view at the Centre Street location. Today, when one enters MOCA, Lin’s design leaves no detail to chance. The wall behind the ticket and information counter very simply, and beautifully, let’s you know where you are. The wall to the left is made up of exquisite bronze rectangles resembling building blocks. Each of these are plaques with the names of prominent Chinese Americans, including one with the names of Maya Lin’s parents, who immigrated to the States in the late 1940s. All names are written in English and Chinese characters. Even the museum’s flooring is unique—made up of vertically inlaid hardwood pieces, so the tops resemble the surface of a traditional Chinese stone walkway. A remnant from the original building is retained on the lower level and is reminiscent of the courtyards typical to Chinese homes. All this gives way to the exhibits inside the museum. One room flows into the other telling the stories of Chinese people in America and their incredible journeys. The museum has also amassed the most extensive collection of recorded oral histories in the world—perhaps the best way of all to preserve this rich history. So, you’ve just completed your visit to MOCA and you’re undoubtedly hungry. Never fear: MOCA can also suggest an exciting food tour in Chinatown where you can sample the best pork buns, soup dumplings and sponge cakes you may ever enjoy. For more information on the Museum of Chinese in America, visit mocanyc.org. •
Museum of Chinese in America
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 97
NEW YORK, NY
ENTREPRENEUR’S CORNER SHARON A. CARR By Ellis Nassour
haron A. Carr, the co-founder of travel site American Concierge and a Broadway investor says, “My father taught me from an early age that the best gift he could give me was the gift of travel. He started me traveling when I was nine.” Carr took him seriously, because she’s been doing it ever since. Her father was a well-regarded Chicago working actor. She owes her siren calls to travel and theater to him. For Carr, they’ve become the best of all possible worlds.
THE BEGINNING A first trip to Europe at age 14 laid the foundation for starting the luxury tour service which designs highly-customized guided itineraries to Paris. The word “concierge” is important, because instead of selling one-off tours, patrons are escorted by 12 multi-lingual ex-pats who know their way around The City of Lights and its environs. Once a tour is created, everything—airport and hotel pickups, dinner reservations, entry fees to a variety of experiences including a three-hour night tour with guide in a luxury SUV, as well as special-interest visits (cooking lessons, wine and cheese tastings)—is in the hands of the concierge, who provides intimate knowledge of the city they call home. 98 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
Travel has become part of Carr’s DNA. It began after high school when she became an exchange student in Germany. Then, while in university, she was accepted into a program that allowed a semester working at New York’s Henry Street Settlement Playhouse. Her final semester was at the University of West Berlin. She remained in Europe two years, where she met and married a U.S. Naval officer stationed with NATO in Italy. When the marriage ended, she settled in New York and worked with the once storied Westbeth Theater Center in Greenwich Village, a major Off-Broadway force. It was travel, theater, travel, theater, travel, until 1977, when at 26, Carr made a major shift, joining American Banknote Company (now ABCorp.), a world leader in engraving and printing currency, traveler’s checks, stock certificates, bonds, and government security documents. There, she rose to become the first female vice president in the firm’s 200-year history. It also led to meeting and, in 1983, marrying David Carr. She acquired two step-daughters and together, they have a son.
LIFE IS TOO SHORT
A THEATRICAL VENTURE
But 9/11 changed Carr’s outlook on life. Residing at Beekman and Nassau Streets, she explains, “I was an eyewitness to the tragedy. It affected me deeply and made me realize that life is too short. It should be about joy and what in my heart I wanted to do. That led me back to what’s inherently in my bones.” Carr fortuitously befriended French artists Michel and Cathy Dejean, whose permanent home is in Strasbourg. “They generously gave me the keys to their Paris pied-a-terre. I stayed for six weeks as part of a six-month revisit to my past, to better understand my present and how to move into my future. I met incrediblyeducated Americans, Madison King and Richard Westmeyer, each married to French women with whom they had children. The guys were having a hard time integrating into the work force. Their only jobs were teaching English a few hours a week for little pay.”
In 2005, separated from her husband, Carr was introduced to theater investing. For her first venture, she raised 35 percent of the budget for an Off-Broadway show. A few million dollars and nine Broadway and Off-Broadway shows later, she’s won two Tony Awards for the 2013 revival of Pippin and this year’s Best Musical, The Band’s Visit. However, she never lost sight of Paris. On the last night of a January 2015 visit, she and her four Parisian friends attended the final performance of the musical An American in Paris at the Théâtre Châtelet. “The next day we were out shopping and running about,” she recalled. “At the end of the day, I looked at Richard and said, ‘There’s a business in this. An American in Paris: At Your Service.’ He loved the idea and toot sweet, we were in.” In the early stages, Carr saw her mission as filling a niche. “I thought of women my age who had a desire to spend time in Paris on their bucket list. Because of Airbnb’s, many tourists aren’t staying in hotels. They want to stay longer, but don’t have benefit of hotel concierge services.” As Carr and company developed American Concierge, they learned people wanted more than just “a pal around Paris,” so they sought certified guides with an intimate knowledge of the city’s culture. “Always with the accent on American, thus our tag line: By Americans living in Paris for Americans visiting Paris.’”
Luckily for Carr, they had a lot of free time. “Madison and Richard became the eyes and ears of Paris for me, showing me sides of the city I never knew. Soon, we were the three musketeers. By the time it came for me to move on, I, too, was an expert.” Over the next few years, the Dejean’s continued to extend apartment privileges. “It’s a kind of exchange program, but an unfair one,” laughs Carr. “I’m in Paris several times a year and they’ve only come to New York three times in the last eight years.”
Sharon A. Carr
A BRIGHT FUTURE The company’s now registered in France, with Guy Didier, a pilot and awardwinning organist as well as former president and CEO of Paramount Pictures, as chairman. Carr’s business and life partner Ivan Zatkovich, heads eCompConsultant, which provides witnesses in legal matters involving intellectual property and patent litigation. Her son, Michael, is COO. “We’ve invested in serious marketing and advertising,” Carr points out, “and are hoping to break even this year. The good news is that Paris has become popular year-round.” When she was successful in business, Carr stayed, dined, and shopped in luxe places. “That was always part of me,” she asserts. However, today my situation is different. I’m grateful to be in Paris in a third-story walk up for weeks at a time. I use the Metro or hop on a bicycle. There’s no view of the Eiffel Tower or the Seine, but I have all of Paris at my feet.” For more information on American Concierge, visit americoncierge.com. •
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 99
NEW YORK, NY
MY NEW YORK STORY By Andrea Fornarola Hunsberger | photos courtesy of Elements Fitness Studio
have always had a love of dance and movement. I began at three years old and have been putting movement patterns together into a fluid motion ever since. I studied dance professionally at the University of Buffalo and graduated with a BFA in Dance Performance. Then I began to pursue dance professionally and was immediately attracted to Barre because of its foundation in ballet and functional movement. As a professional dancer, I had a strong love of fitness and began teaching in Manhattan as a survival job between professional dance gigs. Soon I was a founding trainer at a very popular boutique fitness studio and noticed how important community, client experience, and fitness was to all the class attendees. In fact, I have always felt that boutique fitness should have an atmosphere that brings people together for the people as much as the workout. This is the reason I’ve always felt seeing a client’s body and life change for the better, working with my highly motivated staff and trainers, and the excitement of creating and growing my business makes this my dream job.
OPENING THE FIRST STUDIO Because I was focused on the client experience and felt that it was lacking led to the idea of opening my own studio. The idea behind the business and the brand was to give trainers, like myself, an open forum to teach and reach clients. I also wanted to make it a mission to offer smaller classes that are 100 percent experience focused. The first step was writing the teaching manual and getting it copyrighted in early 2010. I organically grew my following through private sessions and launched a group fitness series in Tribeca in 2013. From there, one of my clients urged me to check out the Hamptons. One weekend I was in East Hampton and stumbled upon my first studio. I launched the studio in May 2014, and it quickly grew as we amassed a following. We have been in “go mode” ever since.
Manhattan Studio
100 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
IMPROVING HEALTH & FITNESS Elements Fitness Studio has developed training programs to offer a mix of techniques and methods to help improve health and fitness.
AF™ SERIES Spend 25 minutes to tone and stretch which achieves results in no time. Faster than an express pedicure and a millennial favorite! Available in four exercise routines.
SIGNATURE CLASSES Head-to-Glow barre-based fitness workouts. A results-driven luxury experience. Go ahead, work up that luxury sweat! Signature Classes combine barre, dance, and total-body fitness conditioning that gets results fast! Check out our highly-successful workouts and sign up now! • Toned By Elements™ This barre/Pilates inspired class fuses ULTRA isometric exercises and interval training with the principles of yoga, strength conditioning, and Pilates core work. Based on Elements™ signature formula, all exercises are sequenced together to achieve increased strength and conditioning. Resistance bands, blocks, and mats are utilized during this class. • Sweat By Elements™ A higher intensity formula pairing our signature toned class formula with non-stop cardio, strengthening, and conditioning sequences. This class includes work on and off the barre and is more challenging than our open level toned class. Andrea Fornarola Hunsberger
A TYPICAL DAY On any given day at Elements, you’ll find clients and staff sweating it out at the studio. I always connect with new clients and discuss their goals, inquire about their fitness history, ask what their main area of focus is and find out if they have had or currently have any injuries. Our method is easily modified and can be tailored to all of our clients’ needs, especially in private sessions. I create a bond to make them feel like family. Elements runs flawlessly due to our dedicated staff, top-notch trainers and our incredible clients that stand behind us and propel us forward. We also partner with major corporations including WebMD, One World Trade, The Forge in Long Island City, as well as multiple tech companies and coworking spaces where we offer classes, private training and wellness activations. With these partnerships, Elements works to integrate into the culture of the businesses and residential buildings by offering yoga, lunch and learns, and outdoor run clubs. We see high levels of engagement and a heightened sense of community in all of our partnering organizations.
• Dance By Elements™ A high-energy 60-minute group fitness class that focuses on cardio-based interval training utilizing a choreographed warm-up, isometric floor work, and core building exercises. This class features high-intensity dance choreography, body sculpting, and core strengthening exercises to create a powerpacked fitness experience. • Stretch By Elements™ This is a 55-minute stretching and strengthening class focused on lengthening and stretching. Utilizing resistance bands and the barre, we focus on elongating the major muscle groups and stretching the accessory/stabilizing muscles to achieve a long and lean physique. This class pairs well with our signature and advanced barre formats.
All of our work is based on our Signature Class and Express Class programs. In the next five years we plan to open our Upper East Side locations and multiple locations across the tristate area. This, of course, will include scaling our corporate wellness programming to reach companies in New York City and beyond—both in office and live streaming content to sweat anytime, anywhere making Elements a global brand. For more information on Elements Fitness Studio, visit elementsfitnessstudio.com. •
Manhattan Studio
SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 101
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NEW YORK, NY
TIME OUT WITH… LYSS STERN By Bailey Beckett
yss Stern is on a tight schedule, but you’d never know it. As she sits comfortably, looking almost languid in a nook at the cozy Java Girl Café on New York’s tony Upper East Side, her mind is keeping track of the many balls she has thrown in the air. The multi-tasking doesn’t frazzle her, though; behind the busy is a broad smile and sweet nature, both of which have helped her build her company, DivaMoms, into a real world and online community of parents who don’t think motherhood is an express ticket to stretch pants. “A DivaMom is a woman who feels even sexier, stronger and more gorgeous after she has a baby,” explains Stern, who prefers going by just Lyss. “She is a woman who understands that loving your child doesn’t mean losing yourself, and that being a mom is the most fabulous time of your life.”
MOMS’ MOTHER HEN The idea came to her after giving birth to her first child, son Jackson, now 14, and fearing the surrender of her pre-parenting life—feeling glamorous, sexy and always a woman, not just a mom. “Who said I have to put away my stilettos and become a hermit?” asks Lyss. “Sippy cups fit just as well in a fashionable handbag as a dowdy floral tapestry diaper bag.” Recognizing a huge and previously untapped market, she called on her own experience as a publicist and preschool teacher and started a blog, DivaMoms.com, to share those thoughts. Before long, an audience had grown mom by mom. And it continues, as more women are inducted into the unparalleled ranks of motherhood. As fall begins, and the smell of freshly-sharpened No. 2 pencils with their new pink erasers permeates the air, New York Lifestyles caught up with the mom-preneur to get a firsthand account of her journey. “I felt so isolated and alone after having my first,” Lyss remembers. “I was disconnected from the person I had always been. I thought that woman and my new persona of mother couldn’t coexist, much less be two parts of a whole. I didn’t know where to turn for guidance—there weren’t any books, online discussions, new mothers support groups that spoke to this experience. The closest thing I found was a group meeting, held in the back of a dark and dingy restaurant on the Upper East Side, with the leader advising, ‘This is how to breastfeed.’ I hightailed it out of there,” she laughs. SEPTEMBER 2018 | NEW YORK LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | 103
SHARING EXPERIENCES If necessity is the mother of invention, for this mother, sharing her experiences was a necessity—for her sanity. “When I started the blog, it was a personal diary detailing my experiences navigating the new and strange waters of motherhood, and my refusal to lose myself simply because I’d taken on an additional role, not a replacement one,” she says. “There wasn’t any reason I couldn’t still be vibrant and FabULyss.” (Another trademark: She loves using word plays on her name, and her friends and followers have followed, too. Just call them the LyssTeners.) Now raising three kids (Jackson has since been joined by Oliver, 11 and daughter Blake, 4), Lyss continues to grow DivaMoms organically by engaging with her followers, who in turn invite their friends. That business savvy has caught the attention of companies and brands looking to reach the mom audience, from retailers selling baby clothes to high fashion designers. One of the first entrepreneurs to monetize the lucrative demographic (which Benchmark, a research firm, estimates at a $1.3 trillion market), Lyss has attracted a wide range of sponsors for events, store openings, book launches, product reviews and a multitude of other packages.
HER GREATEST JOY Her secret? Good old fashion reality. “I don’t portray my life as perfect and I don’t want anyone to think it is, because it’s not. To claim otherwise wouldn’t be fair to the other moms who work hard to keep it all together,” she says. “What’s important is happy children, a family whose members know they’re loved and valued. I’ve been married to my husband, Brian, for 17 years and we’ve been together for 20. He, my three kids (and our dog, too!) are my greatest joys. Everything else is gravy.” That doesn’t mean she isn’t having fun. Lyss has written two books about her experiences, including the wellreceived Motherhood Is A B#TCH, 10 Steps to Regaining Your Sanity, Sexiness and Inner Diva and co-authored by Sheryl Berk, which won accolades from critics and readers alike. “Finally, a book that doesn’t sugarcoat the idea of what it is to be a mother. Basically, we are warriors,” exclaimed handbag designer Rebecca Minkoff, while Gossip Girl alum Kelly Rutherford quipped, “Lyss tells it like it is while making us laugh at all the craziness and chaos that is motherhood. Her message is empowering— go forth and be fierce!”
THE BALANCING ACT Through social media, email blasts (she is quick to note she has never bought a list, follower or fan, and never will), sponsored events, speaking engagements and highly-sought TV appearances (Today show, anyone?), Stern’s audience reach counts in the millions. Her signature event, the “Mom Moguls” breakfast held every year before Mother’s Day, is a must-attend for well-heeled New Yorkers. Earlier this year, more than 200 women filled Lord & Taylor to hear entrepreneurial advice from speakers like jeweler Jennifer Fisher, celebrity stylist June Ambrose, model-turned-entrepreneur Veronica Webb, Baked by Melissa founder Melissa Ben-Ishay, and Flywheel Sports creator Ruth Zukerman, to name a few. Balancing family and her brand isn’t an easy task, but the joy of doing what she loves is infectious, and what keeps her going. And she finds inspiration from other parents in the process. “Moms in my network know we are here for each other,” she says. They know how to be FabULyss! • 104 | OUR CITY, YOUR LIFE | SEPTEMBER 2018
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