Sutton Place
Photography by Anneliese Horowitz
Lawrence Light & Meredith Anthony
AUTHORS
“D EAR NN MARIE ”
Question of the Month
DEAR ANN MARIE,
My co-op allows washer/dryers but I’ve never installed one. I would like the convenience but I am thinking of selling my apartment in the next few years. Is this a worthwhile investment?
- SUDS IN SUTTON
DEAR SUDS,
Funny you should ask because I am pondering the same question myself. My building (60 Sutton Place South) recently changed its rules to allow in-unit laundry, and many of my neighbors have installed. There is a trend for buildings to re-evaluate their longstanding policies prohibiting washer/ dryers, primarily because advanced technology has led to high efficiency washers that use much less water than old-fashioned units and “ventless” dryers are also possible which avoids problems with ducting. This alleviates concerns about excessive pressure on pipes and similar issues underlying the “no laundry” policies, so some co-ops are re-evaluating their policies. Other buildings such as 25 and 45 Sutton Place South now also permit in-unit laundry, for example.
For co-op sellers whose buildings allow it, this single improvement can materially increase buyer demand, shorten days on market, and strengthen negotiating power. Today’s Manhattan buyers — especially those shopping in Sutton Place’s established, service-oriented buildings — prioritize convenience. Many are moving from newer rentals or condos where laundry in the unit is standard. When they tour a co-op without it, the absence feels like a compromise. When they find one that does have it, the apartment immediately moves to the top of their list.
From a value perspective, the math is compelling. The data indicates that a properly installed washer/dryer can add $100,000, often far exceeding the cost of installation. More importantly, it expands your buyer pool: families, professionals with demanding schedules and international purchasers all view in-unit laundry as a non-negotiable modern amenity.
There’s also a psychological advantage. A washer/dryer signals that the apartment has been thoughtfully updated and is “move-in ready,” a phrase that carries real weight in co-op sales. Buyers know that plumbing approvals, board permissions, and wet-over-dry rules can be complex. When you’ve already navigated that process, you remove friction — and friction kills deals.
If your building permits it, installing a washer/dryer is one of the most strategic, high-impact upgrades you can make before listing. It aligns your home with current buyer expectations, enhances daily livability, and positions your co-op as a standout in a competitive market —exactly what drives stronger offers and a faster sale.
Sincerely,
Ann Marie
Ann Marie Folan is a long-time Sutton Place resident and the top Sutton broker. After serving as a residential and commercial real estate attorney at Stroock, Stroock & Lavan LLP, she joined Douglas Elliman where she quickly established herself as a top producer, and earned the prestigious “Deal of the Year” award from the Real Estate Board of New York. She has closed hundreds of sales in NYC.
ASK ANN MARIE! Submit your questions to Ann Marie.
JulyHappy4th!
SOCIAL Sutton Place
PUBLICATION
Publisher Eleni Menoutis
Feature Writer Margaret Pfohl mpfohl@bestversionmedia.com
Designer Sarah VanDerGeest
Photographer Anneliese Horowitz anneliesehorowitzphoto@gmail.com
ADVERTISING / CONTENT / MAILING LIST
Contact Eleni Menoutis
Phone 646.386.6270
Email emenoutis@bestversionmedia.com
IMPORTANT LOCAL CONTACTS
Sutton Area Community (SAC): 212.838.9770 info@suttonareacommunity.com
Sutton Place Parks Conservancy (SPPC): info@suttonplaceparks.org events@suttonplaceparks.org
Beekman Place Association (BPA): 415.533.5366 board@beekmanplacenyc.org
Turtle Bay Association (TBA): 212.751.5465 office@turtlebay-nyc.org
East Midtown Partnership (EMP): 212.813.0030 info@eastmidtown.org
NYPD 17th Precinct: 212.826.3211
FDNY Engine 8/Ladder 2: 718.999.2000
Dearest Readers,
As I write this letter to you all from the airport in Jamaica, heading back to New York, I realize how grateful I am to have experienced another culture — with 11 of my high school girlfriends! Now in all different parts of the states, from all different parts of the world, celebrating our turning 40 this year.
"Out of many, one people," as they say here, very similar to our USA motto, the melting pot that is NYC, and our hometown's spirit.
Community, family, friendship — from childhood, adulthood, travels — it's what life is about!
One Love,
Founding Publisher, Sutton Place Social EMenoutis@BestVersionMedia.com
Eleni Menoutis Publisher Margaret Pfohl Feature Writer Sarah VanDerGeest Designer
ELENI MENOUTIS
Anneliese Horowitz Photographer
From strategic pricing to powerful marketing and skilled negotiation, Eileen is dedicated to achieving the best outcome for every client. With a track record of exceptional results, Eileen Foy helps homeowners navigate the market with confidence.
The Experts.
CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH
Dr. Robert Melillo
The Melillo Center for Developing Minds
646.971.8040
melillomethodnyc@gmail.com www.drrobertmelillo.com
347 5th Ave, Rm 1010 (btw 33rd & 34th) @DRROBERTMELILLO
COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTAL
Dr. Steven Chavez
Blue Line Dental
212.317.5959
hello@bluelinedentalnyc.com www.bluelinedentalnyc.com 1037 2nd Ave (btw 54th & 55th) @DRSTEVENCHAVEZ
ASSISTED LIVING MEMORY CARE
Clare P. Shanley, Executive Director
The 80th Street Residence
Enhanced Memory Care
212.717.8888 www.80thstreetresidence.com 430 E 80th (at York Ave)
INVESTIGATION & PHYSICAL SECURITY
Michael Gaeta
SI Global Partners
212.245.2918
info@siglobalpartners.com www.siglobalpartners.com 199 Water St, 16th Fl, NYC 10038
Contact Eleni Menoutis emenoutis@bestversionmedia.com | 646.386.6270
BY SUTTON PLACE RESIDENT PAM GOLDMAN
Social Sam
I've lived in Sutton Place for my whole life, since September of 2020, and I know everyone in every building. Especially the doormen at 14, 20 and 1. They are all so nice to me and give me treats.
I love the park across the street and see all of my friends there every morning. My mom is on the board of Sutton Place Parks Conservancy and is the president of the board of our co-op 2 Sutton Place South, so I need a lot of patience when we go for a walk because she says hello to everyone My dog walker Denise takes me to the new walkway and I always run into four-legged friends. Here are some photos of me in the apartment and in the park. And some with my fellow Sutton Place South furry friends!!! The one with my mom is us peering through the door of 14, hoping we see Lucas and Justin, the doormen!
PET CORNER
DAILY CAMP 5+
PLAYDAY UES
Half day, partial, all day
351 E 78th (at 1st)
CAMP 5+ is a fun-filled day of creative experiences, new friends, and masterful art work! Children begin with doodling, socializing, and free time to inspire their creative journey. Over the course of the day children participate in several art activities led by our accredited artists with snack time in between. No two days are the same, no two projects are alike! CAMP 5+ is offered EVERY DAY to accommodate all different school calendars and can be booked hourly, daily, or weekly. Book by 6pm the day before at: www.playdayues.com
50 YEARS OF AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE MOUNT VERNON HOTEL MUSEUM & GARDEN
Wed, July 1, 12–1:30pm
MVHMG (421 E 61st btw York & First)
Explore letters, portraits and innovations from founding fathers and experience celebrations of 50 years of independence plus special exhibition to honor America’s 250th!
For more info & to purchase tickets: www.eventbrite.com/e/50-years-of-american-independence-at-the-mount-vernon-hoteltickets-1986359017292?aff=oddtdtcreator www.mvhm.org
MONTHLY OPEN HOUSE
PAUL RUDOLPH INSTITUTE
Fri, July 3, 6–9pm & Sat, July 18, 1–4pm
246 E 58th St
Experience the only Paul Rudolph-designed interior open to the public in New York City. Reservations can be made through the website as there are limits to the number of people in the building at a time. $30/ticket. RSVP: www.paulrudolph.institute/rudolph-open-house
WOODLAWN TROLLEY TOUR
ART DECO SOCIETY OF NEW YORK
Sat, July 18, 12:30–2pm
The Bronx
An exceptional summer treat: a special-access, custom-designed trolley tour of Woodlawn Cemetery, a National Historic Landmark renowned for having one of the finest collections of funerary art and architecture in the United States. Spanning 400 acres of rolling hills and tree-lined roads, Woodlawn is a remarkable example of the landscape-lawn cemetery movement that became popular after the Civil War. While enjoying the lush summer scenery aboard the Woodlawn Trolley, guests will encounter extraordinary mausolea, striking Art Deco and Egyptian Revival designs, and magnificent stained-glass windows crafted by celebrated artisans including Tiffany Studios.
Limited Spacing. Reserve via: https://artdecosocietyofnewyork.wildapricot.org/event-6691903 www.artdeco.org
KEEP UP TO DATE WITH US
ON INSTAGRAM & VIA OUR MONTHLY E-NEWSLETTER FOR UPCOMING FALL BOOK CLUBS, HAPPY HOURS, WALKING TOURS, WELLNESS EVENTS, SPONSOR SOCIALS & MORE.
STAY SOCIAL
STAY SOCIAL
| SPONSOR EVENT | USA ROOFTOP SOIREE FRANK E. CAMPBELL
Saturday, July 25
1076 Madison Avenue (corner 81st)
Renovated rooftop BBQ & music celebration honoring 250 years of American independence. Event open to all. RSVP: sweiss@rubensteinpr.com FrankECampbell.com
SHALIMAR & THE JAZZ AGE
ART DECO SOCIETY OF NEW YORK
Wed, July 29, 6:15–8pm
Guerlain Wellness Waldorf Astoria (5th Fl)
An elegant evening at the Guerlain Spa, located on the fifth floor of the iconic Waldorf Astoria New York. Special presentation by Nicholas Fait, offering a fascinating exploration of the history, artistry, and cultural influence of the legendary French perfume house Guerlain. Guests will enjoy prosecco while immersing themselves in the world of fragrance and design — Guerlain's evolution from its early beginnings to its emergence as one of the world s most celebrated luxury brands, with particular focus on the transformative Art Deco era of the 1920s and 1930s.
For more info & to register: www.artdeco.org/upcoming-events
JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY COURSES
JAPAN SOCIETY
Through July
In-Person & Via Zoom
Japanese calligraphy, also known as shodo, is a revered, centuries-old art form and Zen practice which evokes harmony, beauty, and balance. Shodo uses a brush and charcoal ink on paper, wood plaques, and fabric, and includes Chinese characters (kanji) and Japanese hiragana.
Courses offered for beginners & those with previous experience: www.japansociety.org/language-center/calligraphy
More events this month:
333 E 47th St btw 1st & 2nd www.japansociety.org
JAPAN CUTS film festival
Save The Date
SUTTON PLACE SOCIAL EVENTS
MOM'S HAPPY HOUR AT LES VAGABONDS Thur, 9/17, 4–7pm
SPONSOR SOCIAL AT NOSTOS Mon, 9/28, 5:30–8:30pm
BRUNCH BOOK CLUB AT NOSTOS Sun, 10/25, 11:30am–1:30pm
OUR PARKS STROLL Sun, 10/18, 1pm
The Future of Brain Health at The Bristal Assisted Living
Introducing the BrainFit Gym™ - a groundbreaking approach to cognitive wellness, exclusively at The Bristal. Powered by SMARTfit™ technology, this innovative program blends physical activity with mental engagement, helping to strengthen memory, coordination, and focus in a fun, interactive way.
More than tness, the BrainFit Gym™ is a luxury lifestyle enhancement that supports con dence, vitality, and healthier, more independent living.
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Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Discover how The Bristal at York Avenue is redefining senior wellness on the Upper East Side.
VIP
AT LOTTE NEW YORK PALACE RESET Wellness Women's
May of last year, our legendary neighbors and past Women's History Month cover stars — Yue-Sai Kan and Laura Geller — graciously joined forces in leading our once-in-a-lifetime Women's Power Panel inside Yue-Sai's gorgeous Sutton Square townhome, helping to launch the beginning of what would become a series of Sutton Place Social women's events.
May 2026 marked the second: our uber-luxe Women's VIP Wellness Reset inside the iconic Lotte New York Palace and ila Only Spa
The one-time-only experience began with attendees changing into their nontoxic three-piece ButterMelt™ outfits, courtesy of Korean-based
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNELIESE HOROWITZ
(NYC-launching!) Stretch Your Story , and into their UES-founded Café Après cloud socks (some sported their martini and crest styles, too). While sipping on superfood Renude hot cocoa to relax, and sampling Madison Avenue (and Paris fave) gluten-free bakery Noglu green juices, protein shakes, power balls and croissants, guests were treated to expert sculpting by Sabria's Brows , the queen of brow shaping in the city. The highlight of the event was an hour-long sound healing journey with the beyond lovely board-certified Marianna of Grata Wellness inside the ballroom of The Palace (Josh of ila Only upgraded us last minute!). On our marbled Stretch Your Story yoga mats, and with our Missoni eye masks and copper Ayurlight Candles water bottles, we willingly surrendered to the calming sounds — for a total mind-body-spirit reset.
Back at ila Only's relaxation lounge, everyone gathered for a tasting of magical Greek Kleos Mastiha Spirit to recover and digest, and an epic raffle of five $100 Sillo silk pillowcase sets and a $600 gift card to the spa! And, of course, to take home their SYS yoga mats and bamboo towels — plus luxurious swag bags filled with major brands: clean-beauty Oak Essentials , the OG of organic/vegan/gf Sakara , tallow-cooked Vandy Crisps , Immunocologie lava body serum, and more Renude Reishi cacao.
Metallic cutlery and decor accessories by twin-created The Confetti Collective , signage by master Scott Goldman of ScogoMedia , social media coverage by KLM Marketing , and photography by SP Social's Anneliese Horowitz rounded out our event sponsors — the ultimate lineup!
Empowerment, wellness — what theme should come next?
@GRATAWELLNESS
SABRIA'S BROWS
A New Era of Wellness at ila Only Spa
BY FEATURE WRITER MARGARET PFOHL
Perched on the eighth floor of the Lotte New York Palace, ila Only Spa has quietly become one of Manhattan's most ambitious wellness destinations. The Madison Avenue retreat marks the first ila Only New York Hotel Spa in the United States, bringing the brand's Cotswoldsinspired philosophy from the English countryside to NYC's concrete jungle through stress-relieving treatments, farm-grown organic ingredients, and the kind of recovery and longevity technology usually reserved for high-end wellness clubs.
Inside the sprawling Midtown space, guests can book everything from massages, facials, nails, and hair styling to hyperbaric oxygen therapy, red light treatments, compression therapy, robotic massage systems, sleep therapy, vitamin infusion drips, and fitness classes. “We like to say that our philosophy and goal here at ila is to combine modern technology with traditional holistic practice,” Joshua Rohoman, Spa Director, explains. “We want to provide the best rest and relaxation that the wellness and spa industry can offer.”
The spa first arrived at the Lotte New York Palace about six years ago, but Rohoman notes that ownership made a major shift roughly a year ago, leaning heavily into longevity-focused wellness. The result is a hybrid space that feels equally appealing to someone booking a classic facial and someone looking for a more intensive recovery experience.
“We occupy the entire eighth floor and offer New York City a one-stop shop for wellness and longevity needs,” he continues. The extensive treatment menu includes unique offerings like quartz table ritual massages and Medi spa services, while still maintaining the five-star hotel atmosphere The Palace is known for.
For Rohoman, the work is deeply personal. Having spent years working in wellness centers and salons across Manhattan, he found himself drawn to the immediate transformation that happens when people start feeling better physically and mentally. “I've learned there is an immediate connection between someone's productivity when they feel their best. Our biggest inspiration is being able to provide happiness and joy in the form of relaxation to our guests.”
That feeling is amplified when clients begin incorporating wellness practices into their everyday lives. “It 's further compounded when consistency with wellness, fitness, and longevity brings about long-term happiness and better health over time,” he notes.
The setting itself adds another layer to the experience. Housed inside one of New York's most iconic hotels, ila welcomes an endless stream of personalities through its doors. Rohoman laughs describing the pace of working inside The Palace. “You meet so many people from diverse backgrounds, interesting careers, and well-respected industries,” he shares. “Although the pressure can be immense to achieve high standards and luxury service, it 's what makes it such an incredible experience working here.”
At its core, ila's message is refreshingly straightforward: Wellness does not have to feel intimidating. “Take time to invest in yourself,” Rohoman emphasizes. “It doesn't need to be expensive or a huge commitment. Find something you can realistically incorporate into your schedule, even if it ' s once a week.”
With plans to expand and launch exclusive membership offerings in the near future, ila Only Spa is continuing to grow alongside New York's increasing interest in longevity and recovery. For now, though, its eighth-floor retreat inside the Lotte New York Palace offers something the city never seems to have enough of: a reason to slow down for a few hours.
Explore the spa's services, memberships and book online at ilaspanyc.com
The only licensed Assisted Living Residence in NYC entirely devoted to Enhanced Memory Care.
Upper East Side NOGLU is Making GLUTEN FREE ON THE Chic
BY FEATURE WRITER MARGARET PFOHL
For years, gluten-free food carried an unfortunate reputation: dry bread, disappointing desserts, and the feeling that dietary restrictions automatically meant sacrificing indulgence.
Frédérique Jules built Noglu to prove the exact opposite.
MISSION STATEMENT: The BPA’s mission is to promote the health, safety and welfare of its residents located between the east side of First Avenue and the East River, and between Mitchell Place and East 51st Street.
415.533.5366 @beekmanplacenyc board@beekmanplace.org beekmanplacenyc.org
“Just because something is gluten free doesn't mean it should look or taste bad,” she explains. “We want everything to have the same beauty and flavor as traditional French pastry.”
Step inside the Madison Avenue café, and it quickly becomes clear that Noglu is less health-food shop and more Parisian pâtisserie. Glass cases are lined with glossy fruit tartlets, delicate éclairs, buttery looking croissants, madeleines, and beautifully crafted cakes that happen to be entirely gluten free. Chic women linger over cappuccinos and lunch meetings while neighborhood regulars stop in for fresh bread or pastries that look straight out of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Originally trained as a physiotherapist, Frédérique eventually pivoted into food after noticing a lack of elevated gluten-free options in Paris. Fifteen years ago, she launched Noglu, becoming one of the first people in the city to open a dedicated gluten-free bakery focused on authentic French pastry.
Today, Noglu has expanded to three locations in Paris along with its New York café, which first opened in Carnegie Hill in 2015. Frédérique partnered with Eli Zabar and his son Sasha Zabar, bringing her distinctly French approach to gluten-free baking to the Upper East Side.
What began as a small storefront tucked mid-block eventually expanded into Noglu’s current corner location on Madison Avenue, allowing the café to grow beyond pastries into a full breakfast and lunch destination serving tartines, salads, sandwiches, breads, and catering for events and celebrations, like our recent Sutton Place Social women's wellness evening at The Palace.
“We try to create excellent food first,” Frédérique notes. “The gluten-free part comes naturally after that.”
The café’s pastries are made using alternative flours and starches like rice, chestnut, potato, and corn, but the finished products maintain the elegance and craftsmanship French baking is known for. Many customers, Frédérique says, are surprised to learn the pastries are entirely gluten free.
“Food is very important in France, and we have incredible pastry chefs,” she shares. “We’re bringing that level of French pastry to New York.”
Now Frédérique is focused on expanding even further, with hopes for additional New York locations in the future after recently relocating to New York full time with her youngest daughter and their cat.
The timing feels fitting. As wellness culture increasingly overlaps with luxury and lifestyle, glutenfree dining has evolved far beyond necessity. The café attracts everyone from gluten-sensitive customers to locals simply searching for a beautiful pastry and an elegant neighborhood café.
And judging by the steady stream of customers walking through the Madison Avenue café doors, New Yorkers are more than happy to say oui to that.
Keep up with Noglu on Instagram @nogluny.
Granati POY
PROVIDED BY POY T. GRANATI
Founder and designer of Summer Space, a handcrafted paper flower design studio newly based in the Hudson Valley with events in NYC, and The Scenic Route Journal, a home for creative exploration — celebrating artful living with travel journals, art practices, and stationery for life along the way.
@SUMMERSPACESTUDIO | @THESCENICROUTEJOURNAL SUBSTACK.COM/@TAKESCENICROUTE WWW.SUMMERSPACE.STUDIO WWW.THESCENICROUTEJOURNAL.COM (COMING SOON)
A & Botanical Affair Floral
In honor of Mother's Day, and some in celebration of their birthdays, twelve crafty and curious women from the neighborhood gathered for a hands-on afternoon of Summer Space Studio paper flower art, floral cupcakes, Oak Essentials skincare, and signature GoC drinks and hospitality. It was a Sutton Place Social event meant to spoil, relax, and inspire — and that's exactly what it did!
By Eleni Menoutis
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Carnation, the Mother's Day flower
Kanika & Sara in @parvati_newyork
TWO WRITERS, ONE VERY GOOD VIEW
Meredith & Lawrence
BETWEEN THE PAGES
COVER STORY
Lawrence Light and Meredith Anthony have built a life around stories. From journalism and advertising to mystery novels and literary magazines, the couple has spent decades immersed in the world of words, creativity, and culture. Today, from their sleek 22nd-floor apartment at The Excelsior on the western edge of Sutton Place, they continue to write and read, talk about TV, movies and theater, and keep a close eye on New York’s ever-evolving creative scene.
This summer marks a major milestone for Lawrence, known to friends as Larry, whose latest thriller, "Payback," is being published simultaneously in the United States and the United Kingdom by Severn House in July. The novel centers on a serial killer targeting billionaires, a premise that feels particularly fitting coming from someone who spent years covering the world of finance for publications including The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Business Week, Money, Fortune, and CBS MoneyWatch.
Meredith is equally immersed in the literary world. Her latest short mystery story, "Decluttering," appears in the July/August issue of Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, while her mystery and thriller review column regularly runs in Deadly Pleasures Mystery Magazine. Before transitioning into fiction and criticism, she worked as an advertising copywriter at agencies including Saatchi & Saatchi and Cline Davis Mann.
Though both now consider New York their true home, their paths here were winding. Larry grew up on Philadelphia's Main Line and graduated from Lafayette College before attending Columbia Journalism School. Meredith, originally from a small city in western Pennsylvania, earned her undergraduate degree from St. John's College in Annapolis and later completed her MA at Johns Hopkins University Writing Seminars. Between them, they have lived in Philadelphia, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., where they first met, before eventually settling in Manhattan.
“New York was always our spiritual home,” they both agree.
The couple lived in Yorkville for years before moving to The Excelsior in 2019, just ahead of the pandemic. Today, both work from home, transforming their second bedroom into a dedicated office and library that houses several thousand books spanning mysteries, thrillers, literature, philosophy, and business.
Their apartment reflects the same bold personality found in their writing. The space is modern and graphic, decorated almost entirely in black and white with African and contemporary artwork throughout. Guests entering the apartment are greeted by a tiger mural peeking out from the kitchen wall, while a mixed-media piece by Swedish artist Lars Tunebo depicts an elephant balancing on a tightrope above a sea of taxicabs. A dramatic zebra photograph hangs above one of the living room sofas, and a black-and-white close-up of Roger Moore as James Bond anchors the foyer.
But it is the balcony view that ultimately convinced them to move in.
“We had looked at a lot of apartments,” Larry says. “But when we saw that view, my wife and I were sold.”
From the living room, they can see the Chrysler Building, the Manhattan skyline, and even a sliver of the East River.
Meredith maintains one firm household philosophy: nothing alive besides the two of them.
“No kids, no pets, no houseplants, no candles, no incense, no cut flowers,” she jokes. “Not even houseguests. I can barely keep the two of us alive.”
“All our plants are faux,” she adds. “Even our fireplace is electric.”
Like many longtime residents, they speak about the neighborhood with both affection and nostalgia. They were regulars at the beloved Neary’s before it closed, considering it their unofficial second home. They also fondly remember taking the Roosevelt Island tram to The Panorama rooftop bar at The Graduate Hotel before its closure.
These days, they often serve friends drinks and snacks at home before heading out to dinner. Among their favorite neighborhood spots are burgers at The Blasket and Bloom’s Tavern, steak dinners at Club A, Lebanese food at Au Za’atar, Greek at Anatoli, Italian at Amata, French at Les Vagabonds, and Chinese at Mr. Chow.
Every New Year’s Eve, the couple hosts an elegant gathering complete with champagne, caviar, shrimp, and elaborate cheese spreads, made easier by their close proximity to Whole Foods.
Their social life, however, often revolves around the arts as much as food. Both are avid theatergoers and members of several repertory theater companies, regularly attending Broadway and off-Broadway productions.
“She loves plays,” Larry says with a laugh. “I prefer musicals. So we go to both.”
“We don’t see everything,” he adds. “But we try.”
“We’re culture vultures. And modernists,” Meredith says. “I’m sick of revivals. Shakespeare, Sondheim, Ibsen, Chekhov, Arthur Miller. Enough. I want to see new work.”
That passion extends into her own creative ambitions as well. Meredith has written a play she hopes will one day make it onto a New York stage. And given the cinematic tension of Larry’s latest thriller, it is not hard to imagine "Payback" eventually finding a second life onscreen or under the lights of a theater marquee.
THE VIEW
MEREDITH AND LARRY AT CARNEGIE HALL
AT MR. CHOW
LARRY AT SMITH & WOLLENSKY
INFLUENCER SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Magic
The of BRINGING PEOPLE & PURPOSE Together
BY ART & DESIGN INTERN MADELINE GABEL
In this digital day and age, influencers have immense power, with enough followers to mobilize attention, resources, and action almost instantly. The creator economy is starting to mirror industries like sports and entertainment — influence is massive. But what makes it different is how personal the trust is. People feel deeply connected to creators, often even more than traditional public figures, and as more creators lead with purpose — the opportunity for real social impact in this space is only growing.
To prove just how powerful social media creators can truly be, close friends and professional partners Stephanie Stephenson and Alexandra Bushman founded the Influencer Social Responsibility (ISR) nonprofit organization with one core philosophy in mind: everyone has something to offer. A voice, a network, a way to show up. The impact comes from the collective, and it's a win-win for everyone. Influencers get content with soul, brands get differentiated activations, nonprofits get amplification they couldn't otherwise afford, and communities get seen, supported, and celebrated. “We're not just throwing money at a problem,” Steph assures. “We're creating ecosystems of impact.”
“Our goal is to help people tap into their purpose and use their platforms and voices in a way that feels authentic to them and drives real change,” says Alex. “Because when individuals, creators, and brands show up — and I think people are really craving that right now — the ripple effect can be incredibly powerful, creating a more hopeful, compassionate world.”
Alexandra and Stephanie's friendship originally began after they met during jury duty, perhaps one of the most classically “New York” ways to start a friendship. When Alex launched ISR, the mission immediately resonated with Steph, who, having grown up in a family that believed deeply in using resources and privilege for good — Steph's parents co-founded the Cordes Foundation back in 2006, which focuses on impact investing, social entrepreneurship, and women's economic empowerment — felt like it was an extension of everything she had been building toward.
When asked about their driving motivations in life, both cite their social support systems. An NYC mom through and through, Steph has a 3.5-year-old boy at home, as well as a precious baby girl born this May. “My family has always been my compass,” she says proudly. “Everything really ladders up to them.” She mentions often wondering about the kind of world they're going to grow up in, and hopes to play even a small role in shaping something they can feel proud of. Steph is also deeply embedded in the local mom community within the greater Sutton Place area, which brings her a strong sense of connection and support. Through her social media content, she aims to share an honest look at motherhood in New York City — the good, the messy, and everything in between. Meanwhile, Alex says her biggest inspiration comes from her peers: “What I enjoy most about my work is the people and the creative side. We get to work with founders, creators, and nonprofit leaders who genuinely care and want to give back, which is incredibly energizing.” While not based locally in Sutton Place, instead in Williamsburg with her fiancé and two kittens, Alex says, “I love the energy of the city and truly feel like it's my
playground.” Despite her city-wide connections, Alex is also very close with her family, who reside in our very own Sutton Place. Having been raised by a Filipino immigrant mother, she has always been passionate about social work — particularly with migrants and refugees — and decided to channel that passion by founding ISR.
Of course, every day with ISR is different, with an almost endless range of events: one day they're throwing a disco pizza party for senior citizens, the next a kitten-centric adoption soiree, or they're dressed like skeletons handing out candy at a partner elementary school in the Bronx!
This past January, to celebrate their one-year anniversary, Influencer Social Responsibility went big. They hosted a party at Wheelhouse's stunning five-story loft in Tribeca, transforming it into the "ISR Social Impact House." The theme was "It's Cold Outside but Giving Back is Hot," with a VIP creator and editor cocktail kickoff, and guests moving through the entire space — each floor highlighting different purpose-driven brands and nonprofits in immersive, interactive ways.
Undoubtedly exceeding every expectation, ISR has already been featured in Forbes, appeared in an episode of "Love Thy Nader" on Hulu, hosted 12 high-impact events, engaged over 250 creators and 25+ nonprofits. That monumental winter night was a chance to celebrate all of it, so far — and everyone who has made it happen.
@INFLUENCERSOCIALRESPONSIBILITY
@_STEPHXSTEPH
@ALEXBUSHMAN
INFLUENCERSOCIALRESPONSIBILITY.COM
STEPH & ALEX
East Midtown Greenway
WITH OUR FRIENDS OF THE ESPLANADE
With special guest and neighbor Former Manhattan Borough Historian Michael Miscione and a free drink courtesy of Say Coffee, our second "Esplanade Secrets" walking tour with Jennifer Ratner of EsplanadeFriends was extra informative and fun. We began at Clara Coffey Park, continued on to the waterfront, and ended at Andrew Haswell Green, which Miscione himself officially named!
By Eleni Menoutis
Sutton Place Social has been partnering up with our local nonprofits and area tour guides. Reach out if interested in becoming part of our special series of strolls!
MICHAEL MISCIONE
WHAT YOUR SMILE SAYS ABOUT AGING
& HOW DENTISTRY CAN HELP NATURALLY
BY EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR STEVEN CHAVEZ, DDS, OWNER, BLUE LINE DENTAL
When people think about aging, they often focus on wrinkles, gray hair, or changes in skin tone. However, one of the most overlooked signs of aging is the smile. Teeth naturally change over time, and these changes can dramatically affect a person's appearance, confidence, and even facial structure. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers natural looking solutions that can restore a youthful smile without making patients look artificial or overdone.
As we age, our teeth experience years of daily wear from chewing, grinding, clenching, coffee, wine, acidic foods, and normal use. Over time, teeth gradually become shorter, flatter, darker, and more worn. Small chips and cracks may appear, and fillings or dental work completed years earlier may begin to fail. Even subtle changes can make a smile appear tired or aged (Image A).
Many people grind their teeth at night without realizing it. In a city like New York City, stress and fast paced lifestyles can contribute significantly to this problem. Over time, chronic grinding can shorten teeth, strain the jaw muscles, and even create headaches or jaw discomfort.
One of the most common issues dentists see in adults is tooth wear caused by grinding and clenching, often referred to as bruxism.
Often overlooked is the position of the teeth and the bite itself. Teeth are designed to function in a healthy, balanced relationship with one another. When teeth are crowded, misaligned, or positioned improperly, excessive force can be placed on certain teeth every single day. One common example is a “deep bite,” where the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth (Image B). In these situations, the teeth may constantly clash or traumatize one another during chewing and clenching. Over time, this can accelerate wear, chipping, fractures, gum recession, and even loosen teeth prematurely. Many people assume this type of wear is simply part of aging, when in reality it is often the result of years of imbalance and excessive force.
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Tooth discoloration is another major factor associated with aging. Years of exposure to coffee, tea, red wine, and certain foods can darken enamel. In addition, enamel naturally becomes thinner over time, allowing the darker inner layer of the tooth, called dentin, to show through more prominently.
Aging smiles can also affect the face itself. Teeth help support the lips and lower portion of the face. When teeth become excessively worn or missing, the face may appear collapsed or sunken, creating an older appearance. Restoring worn teeth can often improve facial support and rejuvenate a person’s overall appearance in a subtle but meaningful way.
The good news is that modern cosmetic and restorative dentistry has evolved tremendously. Today’s treatments focus on preserving healthy tooth structure while creating results that look completely natural. Conservative veneers, bonding, whitening, Invisalign, and ceramic restorations can restore strength, shape, and brightness while still maintaining the individuality of a person’s smile (Image C).
A smile is one of the first things people notice, and healthy teeth contribute not only to appearance, but also to overall confidence and quality of life. Aging is inevitable, but with thoughtful and modern dental care, a smile can remain healthy, functional, and vibrant for many years to come.
Dr. Steven Chavez
TO LEARN MORE OR TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT, VISIT BLUE LINE DENTAL IN SUTTON PLACE.
BOT OX IMP LANTS
I’m Dr. Steven Chavez and I’d like to introduce you to a dental practice offering the care, comfort, style, and support you’ve been looking for: meet Blue Line Dental.We’renowschedulingweekday appointments at our brand new location in the city. PLUS,we’reavailablefordentalemergenciesat ournewo ffice location.We celebrate this vibrant community by making brighter smiles, and we can’t wait to welcome yours.
Introducing Blue Line Dental, a fresh and innovative dental practice that combines exceptional care, ultimate comfort, and a touch of style. Dr. Steven Chavez and Dr. Calvin Tam invite you to experience the care, comfort, style, and support you’ve been looking for. Our brand-new Sutton Place location is now accepting weekday appointments, PLUS, we’re available for dental emergencies to provide prompt care when you need it most. We celebrate the vibrancy of our community by making smiles brighter, one patient at a time, and we can't wait to welcome you!
SMILE, SUTTON PLACE
Dr. Steven Chavez started Blue Line Dental to provide a high caliber of care to the community he loves to serve. As a proud local, he’s committed to treating you like family while delivering world-class care.
Dr. Steven Chavez and I’d like to introduce you to a dental practice offering the care, comfort, style, and support you’ve been looking for: meet Blue Line Dental. We’re now scheduling weekday appointments at our brand new location in the city. PLUS, we’re available for dental emergencies at our new o ffice location.We celebrate this vibrant community by making brighter smiles, and we can’t wait to welcome yours.
DR. CALVIN TAM
DR. STEVEN CHAVEZ
Classic signs of long-term bruxism, including shortened front teeth, flattened wear patterns, and composite bonding placed to repair previous chips and fractures.
Final result of a veneer rehabilitation, demonstrating how modern veneers can create a beautifully natural smile while restoring the youthful shape, length, and appearance of the teeth.
This patient exhibits a deep bite, where the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth, creating traumatic forces that have led to visible chipping and wear.
A MINUTE WITH
DDr. Robert Melillo REDEFINING AUTISM & ADHD TREATMENT
BY FEATURE WRITER MARGARET PFOHL
r. Robert Melillo has spent more than three decades building one of New York City’s most comprehensive centers for developmental and neurological disorders.
At The Melillo Center for Developing Minds in Manhattan, the focus is on what Dr. Melillo describes as the root cause behind conditions such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, OCD, and Tourette’s. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, the Center uses a holistic, multimodal approach designed to address what he calls “functional disconnection” in the brain.
The practice works with children and adults, though much of its focus is on pediatric care. Treatment plans typically range from six to 18 months and are built around individualized assessments of brain function and development. The goal, Dr. Melillo explains, is to identify imbalances in brain networks and support long-term change rather than shortterm symptom management.
“What we do is provide treatment for any sort of developmental disorder in any age group. It starts with understanding the root cause, and then using various modalities to address that on a long-term basis.”
Those modalities include a combination of physical exercises, primitive reflex integration, cognitive stimulation, neurofeedback, electrical and laser-based brain stimulation, and functional medicine approaches such as dietary changes, vitamins, and supplements. Medication is intentionally not part of the protocol.
“Medication doesn’t address the root cause,” he says firmly. “We’re never about just managing symptoms or behaviors.”
Dr. Melillo’s approach is grounded in more than clinical practice alone. A neuroscientist, professor, researcher, and author, he has published over 100 scientific papers and multiple books on developmental disorders, including the bestselling “Disconnected Kids.” He has also worked in research settings for decades, an integration of science and practice he considers central to his work.
“There aren’t a lot of clinicians who are also high-level researchers,” he notes. “That combination has allowed me to ask questions no one else is asking and get answers no one else is getting.”
His interest in neuroscience became deeply personal in the early 1990s, when his eldest son was diagnosed with ADHD. Unable to find clear answers, he spent years studying brain development and ultimately began developing treatment methods that would later become the foundation of his practice.
Today, Dr. Melillo says some of the most meaningful moments in his work come from patients with non-speaking autism who eventually learn to communicate.
“When we get a child to say ‘I love you’ to their parents for the first time, there’s nothing better than that,” he reflects.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Melillo’s work has expanded internationally, with centers now operating in New York City, Long Island, Colombia, Mexico City, and Sydney, Australia. He also teaches and consults globally, training healthcare professionals and educators in his methods.
He lives in New York with his wife of 37 years and has three children, all of whom he describes as “uniquely gifted” and shaped by their own neurodevelopmental differences. One is a singer-songwriter in Nashville, another works alongside him as a doctor, and his eldest is a builder based in upstate New York.
Dr. Melillo continues to emphasize research as the foundation of his work and identity.
“Everything we do is based on ongoing research. We’re constantly trying to understand the brain in ways that haven’t been done before, and that’s what allows us to help some of the most complex cases.”
Learn more about Dr. Melillo and his practice at drrobertmelillo.com.
THE MELILLO CENTER FOR DEVELOPING MINDS 347 5TH AVE, RM 1010 (BTW 33RD & 34TH) 646.971.8040 | MELILLOMETHODNYC@GMAIL.COM
THE ROOT CAUSE OF AUTISM
|INCLUDING NON-VERBAL AUTISM | FROM A TREATMENT & RESEARCH PERSPECTIVE
DR. ROBERT MELILLO and his team are NYC-based leaders in neurodevelopmental conditions such as NonVerbal Autism, ADHD, OCD, Tics, Dyslexia, Anxiety, and Depression in both children and adults. With extensive knowledge of brain function, Dr. Melillo has perfected a multi-modal method that significantly improves the most pervasive neurologic-based issues today. The Melillo Method has transformed the lives of thousands all over the globe, by addressing the root cause, improving brain-body function.
Dr. Melillo’s expertise in functional neuroanatomy and neurophysiology is unparalleled, backed by 30 years as a clinician, professor, brain researcher, and bestselling author.
We invite you to visit The Melillo Center for Developing Minds located at 347 5th Avenue if you or your child is struggling with a neurodevelopmental condition.
ROB, DR. ROBERT MELILLO, ELLIS, CAROLYN, DR. TY
ESCAPE FROM SUTTON PLACE
Where the Earth Remembers
BY SUTTON PLACE RESIDENT YANINA LE CRISTAL
Perhaps the English poet Lord Byron said it best: “At the birth of the planet, the most beautiful encounter between land and sea must have been on the Montenegrin coast.” Montenegro is a small, mountainous country on the Adriatic coast, between Croatia and Albania and opposite Puglia, Italy — yet it feels far larger than its borders. It is a place where mountains plunge into still, glassy bays, where medieval towns glow in the late - day sun, and where history lingers in the air like a quiet blessing.
The Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO - protected wonder, unfurls in deep blue folds beneath the Dinaric Alps. The water mirrors the sky so perfectly that the horizon seems to dissolve, leaving only stone, sea, and silence. Villages that have stood since the 12th century cling to the shoreline, their facades softened by centuries of wind and salt. The bay feels ancient, almost mythic — a place where time slows, breath deepens, and the world narrows to beauty.
Tivat offers a gentle introduction to this rhythm. Mornings in Porto Montenegro feel unhurried, framed by palm trees, sailboats, and the shimmer of Europe’s largest superyacht marina. The air carries the scent of the sea, and the light moves softly across the water. It is a place where you wander rather than rush, where you pause rather than pass through.
Remembers
Montenegro ITS OWN Beauty
Across the bay, the coastline reveals its quieter soul. The Luštica peninsula stretches into the Adriatic like an outstretched arm — wild, windswept, and deeply serene. Waves crash against the rocks in a rhythm older than memory, sending spray high into the air. Inland, olive groves and stone paths lead to views that feel untouched, as if the earth has been left to dream in peace.
Kotor’s Old Town is a world unto itself. Encircled by Venetian walls and watched over by mountains that rise like guardians, it is a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, medieval churches, and hidden squares. The stones beneath your feet are worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, each one a reminder of the lives that passed through before you. The town hums with history — not loudly, but with the soft persistence of something that refuses to be forgotten.
And then there is Perast, a baroque jewel resting quietly on the bay. Its palaces and bell towers reflect in the water like a painting, and boats glide toward Our Lady of the Rocks, the tiny islet built on legend and devotion. Evenings here feel suspended in time — the light softens, the mountains darken, and the bay becomes a mirror of the sky.
Southward, Budva’s Old Town brings a livelier Mediterranean energy, while Sveti Stefan rises from the sea like a dream — terracotta roofs, stone passages, and the timelessness of the Adriatic. Further still, Ulcinj blends Ottoman and Adriatic influences, its golden beaches stretching endlessly toward the horizon. Inland, Lake Shkadar reveals Montenegro’s gentlest face: water lilies, monasteries, and migratory birds drifting across an ancient, untouched landscape.
Montenegro captivates softly, deeply — it doesn’t ask you to fall in love; it simply waits, knowing you will.
Yanina Le Cristal Lifestyle Connoisseur yaninalecristal.com | @yanina_lecristal
SOCIAL SCENE
A rt Deco
MIDTOWN EAST
In November and recently again in May (worthy of a repeat!), we held an Art Deco walk with the fabulously fashionable duo — Roberta Nusim and Linda Zagaria of the Art Deco Society of New York — this time starting at Plaza 400 and ending at the Waldorf Astoria, with a private tour of the wellness spa and a gift from Guerlain.
Did you know? The first Waldorf was demolished to build the Empire State Building; the Chrysler building, nearing 100 years, is made of Nirosta, a rust-resistant steel also used for modern aircraft. Marble and metalwork of Southgate inspired by the Paris exposition, River House whose residents have included Henry Kissinger to Uma Thurman today, The Beekman Tower and Beekman Hill, to the mosaic work of the former General Electric Building and the dazzling restoration of the Waldorf — this Art Deco excursion checked all boxes and more.
We'll leave you with a list of films to catch up on: “Dead End” inspired by River House along 52nd and 53rd streets, “My Man Godfrey” filmed in our neighborhood, and “Weekend at the Waldorf.”
- Eleni Menoutis
Jason Beers in @dafneitaly pop-up fashion inside the Experience Lounge at Guerlain Wellness Spa
